Recently, I went on a dual-volcano trip in Indonesia and want to share some practical tips and itinerary details.
Both Bromo and Ijen Volcanoes are located near Surabaya in Indonesia. Compared to Bali, the road infrastructure in Indonesia is relatively poor, and each attraction is quite far apart. Therefore, I strongly recommend hiring a guide and arranging for transportation. There are options for both three days and two nights or four days and three nights. We chose a local travel agency: Tumpaksewu Tour.
For a private small group of four people, the package includes transportation, entrance fees, and accommodation, costing only $138 per person for three days and two nights – and the accommodation is quite good!
Sharing our itinerary:
We chose the three days and two nights option, but note that Ijen Volcano is closed on the first Friday of each month for cleaning. On that day, we visited Sukamade Waterfall instead.
Day 1️⃣: Hangzhou ✈️ Surabaya. The most convenient way from Surabaya Airport to the volcanoes is by car. Our driver, holding a nameplate, picked us up on time at the airport. It took about four hours to reach Sukamade Waterfall, and our homestay was just 50 meters away from the waterfall – very nice!
Day 2️⃣: Departure at 6 a.m. with a professional mountain guide for a trek to the waterfall, which ended around noon. The area near Sukamade Waterfall has the lowest prices for fruits – durian, rambutan, and coconuts are all cheap. Remember to buy some!
After finishing the waterfall excursion, a five-hour drive took us to the base of Bromo volcano, where we stayed in a small town.
Day 3️⃣: Departed at 2 a.m. for Bromo volcano, switching to a jeep and a professional Bromo driver. The original driver also accompanied us. From the base of the volcano, it took 1-2 hours to reach the top. Before going up, rent warm clothes and first go to the viewpoint to see the sunrise. Afterward, descend to the base and start the trek or horse ride to the volcano crater.
After finishing, an eight-hour drive took us to the southern dream pier for the journey to Bali.
💰Price: $138 for both volcanoes and the waterfall.
If not pressed for time, I strongly recommend a 4 days and 3 nights itinerary:
- Day 1️⃣: Airport pickup, stay at the base of Bromo volcano.
- Day 2️⃣: Explore Bromo volcano, then head to Sukamade Waterfall for accommodation.
- Day 3️⃣: Explore Sukamade Waterfall, then head to Ijen Volcano.
- Day 4️⃣: Explore Ijen Volcano, then head to the southern dream pier.
💰Price: The guide quoted $200 for this four days and three nights itinerary.
Why do I recommend this route? Because Ijen Volcano is very close to the southern dream pier. If you plan to continue your journey to Bali afterward, this route is the most logical and time-efficient.
Although Surabaya may appear a bit rundown, the cost of living is low, and the people are simple and friendly!