Hiking Mount Bromo – active volcano Gunung Bromo (2300 meters), is a very popular activity in this part of Indonesia and one that promises breathtaking views and a unique adventure. Indonesia is a country known for its natural beauty, and the Bromo active volcano with its smoking crater is one of its most iconic landmarks. The volcano is located in East Java and it’s a part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Bromo volcano is the only active crater in the Tengger caldera containing seven eruptive centers.
While most of travel blogs would describe this adventure as highly unique with rewarding volcano views, my experience shows the nature might shutter your plans 😉 Read the post to stay safe and avoid complications on your journey. The hardest it gets the more we remember things. It was tough but magnificent adventure!
How to get to Mount Bromo?
To get to the base of the Bromo volcano, you’ll need to travel to the town of Cemoro Lawang, which is the starting point for most hikers. It’s a small village and getting a room should not be a problem, however you want to stay in Lawang, so here are some cosy places I would recommend:
The town is accessible by car or motorbike from the nearby city of Probolinggo, which is well-connected by train and bus to other parts of Java. Once you reach Cemoro Lawang, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to the national park and hire a jeep or motorbike to take you to the viewpoint from where the hike begins.
Best places to stay in Probolinggo:
- Bromo Park Hotel Probolinggo – super place (~USD 35/per night)!
- Kopikuin Home Stay (~ USD 15/per night) – outside of the city.
How hard it is to hike Mount Bromo?
For us Cemoro Lawang village was a base stay before hiking Bromo. The crater is easily accessible from the village. It’s only 45 minute walk through the sand desert and passing a beautiful Hindu temple. Then you just need to take the stairs and you are in the top of the smoking crater. It all seems very easy but…
Staying in the nearest village was a difficult time. Make sure you check the volcanic activity before you get there. The wind was very strong, which means no visibility and a lot of choking volcanic ash from the crater. I barely could sleep at nigh, with two scarfs tided around my face. The smoke makes you very sick.
After we arrived to the village we was some people wearing masks. At first we were making fun of them, especially with those wearing gas masks (can you imagine!!). And suddenly the wind came! Believe me, nothing was funny anymore! It was a good lesson to remain humble in nature conditions and always be prepared for unexpected weather conditions especially in highlands.
The white ash shaded all the view and the crater. But never give up. When we reached the crater the weather started to be more generous and uncovered the beauty of the volcanic area for us.
Hiking Mount Bromo - the active volcano.
The hike up to the Bromo volcano is not particularly challenging, but it can be strenuous due to the high altitude and the steep incline. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but it can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which includes other volcanoes, hills, and valleys. You’ll also encounter local villagers who live in the area and who may offer you refreshments or souvenirs.
As you near the top of the volcano, you’ll start to feel the heat and the smell of sulphur. The terrain becomes rocky and dusty, and you’ll need to be careful with your footing. Once you reach the crater, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the smoking caldera, which emits steam and ash. You can walk around the crater and take pictures, but be prepared for the strong winds and the occasional ash cloud.
If you prefer an organized tour to Bromo Volcano here is one of the best options.
The Mount Bromo sunrise hike.
The Mount Bromo sunrise hike is said to be a magical experience. And it probably is.. 😉 Two days earlier we did a night hike to Mount Penanjakan (2700m) to admire Bromo sunrise and the landscape of Tengger Semeru National Park. It was SPECTACULAR! One of the most unbelievable landscapes of my life! IT’S A MUST HIKE – CHECK IMAGES HERE.
Bromo would be stunning for a sunrise adventure, however don’t take things for granted! I’ve been on few hiking trails, aiming for spectacular views and sunrises.. but the nature has its own plans. Bromo was highly active at time we arrived to the village. Remember to bring your mask /you can also buy one in Cemoro Lawang/. It was very hard to get to the top of Bromo volcano the next morning, not only because of the horrific volcanic ash but extremely poor visibility.
The white ash shaded all the view on the way to the crater. However, when we finally reached the crater the weather started to be more generous and uncovered the beauty of the volcanic area for us.
If you are hiking Mount Bromo you can combine it with two other amazing adventures – Hiking Ijen Crater and Sunrise from Mount Penanjakan. Both are epic adventures – check below for a detailed travel guide.
Sunrise from Mount Penanjakan, Indonesia
Table of Contents Mount Penanjakan (2700 m) is the perfect point to see Bromo sunrise and the landscape of Tengger Semeru National Park.
Hiking Kawah Ijen Crater lake in Indonesia.
Hiking Kawah Ijen Crater in Indonesia is an extremely unique experience!! (trekking through Java island was one of the most stunning adventures I
On the way to Mount Bromo.
After reaching Probolingo (Probolingo and Malang are two nearby towns) I met a lot of wonderful people aiming same direction. Cemoro Lawang was our base for the trip to the stunning point of view – Mount Penanjakan and hiking Mount Bromo active crater.
The seismic activity of Bromo Volcano increased in 2010 and 2011 when the earthquakes were detected. In 2011 ash emissions from this volcano caused the cancellation of some international flights to Bali. And in 2004 some people were killed because of the Bromo eruption.
As someone who hiked up to the Bromo volcano, I can attest to the unique experience it offers. The landscape is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and the feeling of standing on top of an active volcano is both exhilarating and humbling. I was struck by the resilience of the local people who live in the shadow of the volcano and who have adapted to its eruptions over the years. I also appreciated the camaraderie among fellow hikers, who shared tips and stories along the way.
Tips for hiking Mount Bromo.
If you’re planning hiking Mount Bromo volcano, here are some very good tips to keep in mind:
- Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
- Wear comfortable Waterproof Hiking Boots. Second recommendation is Salewa Trekking & Hiking model.
- If you are aiming for a spectacular sunrise – check the volcano activity before you go and make sure you have TOP RATED hiking first aid kit, PROPER 4 LAYER face masks, UV400 Unisex sun glasses.
- Wear comfortable clothes that can withstand dust and wind and Hooded Rain Shell Jacket.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Outdoor backpack.
- Carry enough water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized.
- You need GoPro HERO11 Waterproof Action Camera for Bromo Volcano!!
- Always carry with you a HEADLIGHT. Choose best one.
- Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights and ensure your safety. (However the hike is very easy).
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and avoid littering or damaging the environment.
Hiking up to the Bromo volcano is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, adventure, and culture. It requires some effort and preparation, but the rewards are well worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, the Bromo volcano is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe of the power and majesty of nature.
