Top 8 Activities Around Ijen Crater: Beyond the Blue Flame
The Ijen Crater (Kawah Ijen) in East Java is one of Indonesia’s most famous natural wonders, well-known for its mystical blue fire, turquoise acidic lake, and traditional sulfur mining. But what many travelers don’t realize is that the surrounding region offers just as many unforgettable adventures.
If you are planning an Ijen tour package or combining it with a Bromo Ijen tour, you should definitely explore these top 8 activities around Ijen. From fishing in traditional villages to experiencing wild sea turtles at Sukamade, here’s a complete guide.
1. Witness the Ijen Blue Fire & Sunrise Hike
- Best Time to Visit: Midnight to 3 AM for blue fire, sunrise at 5:30–6 AM.
- Activity: Hiking 3 km up to the crater rim, then descending 30–45 minutes into the crater to witness the rare phenomenon of burning sulfur.
- Why It’s Special: Only a few places in the world have visible blue fire; Ijen is the most accessible.
- Practical Tip: Bring a gas mask, torch, and good hiking shoes.
2. Explore Sukamade Turtle Beach
- Distance from Ijen: ~4–5 hours drive to Meru Betiri National Park.
- Activity: Witness sea turtles laying eggs at night, visit hatcheries, and release baby turtles back into the sea.
- Why It’s Special: Sukamade is considered the best turtle conservation site in Java.
- Package Price (approx.):
- Shared trip: IDR 1,600,000 per person
- Private tour: IDR 2,500,000–3,000,000 (2D1N Sukamade tour)
3. Visit Jagir Waterfall (Air Terjun Jagir)
- Distance from Banyuwangi town: ~7 km (20 minutes).
- Activity: Relax by a refreshing twin waterfall often called “mini Niagara.”
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon.
- Entry Fee: IDR 10,000 (locals & foreigners same rate).
- Perfect Combo: Great stop before or after Ijen hike.
4. Osing Traditional Village Experience
- Location: Kemiren Village, Banyuwangi.
- Activity: Learn about Osing culture, traditional dance, black coffee tasting, and culinary experiences.
- Why It’s Special: Osing people are indigenous to Banyuwangi, with unique customs and traditions.
- Price Range: Local tours start from IDR 150,000 per person (half-day).
5. Fishing at Banyuwangi’s Coastal Villages
- Where: Muncar or Grajagan fishing villages.
- Activity: Join local fishermen for early morning fishing trips, visit colorful traditional boats, or buy fresh catch at fish markets.
- Why It’s Special: Authentic, non-touristy activity that connects you with local livelihoods.
- Price Range: IDR 200,000–500,000 depending on duration & type of fishing trip.
6. Snorkeling & Diving at Menjangan Island (Bali Side)
- Distance: 2–3 hours drive + short boat ride from Banyuwangi.
- Activity: World-class snorkeling and diving with pristine coral reefs inside West Bali National Park.
- Why It’s Special: Less crowded than Bali’s main dive spots.
- Tour Price:
- Shared snorkeling: IDR 600,000–800,000 per person
- Private diving trip: Starts from IDR 1,500,000
7. Red Island Beach (Pulau Merah)
- Distance from Banyuwangi: 60 km (~2 hours).
- Activity: Surfing, beach walking, sunset photography.
- Why It’s Special: Beginner-friendly surf waves, similar vibe to Bali’s Kuta but quieter.
- Surfboard Rental: IDR 50,000/hour
- Tour Package Add-On: Extra IDR 500,000–800,000 for transport + guide from Banyuwangi.
8. Baluran National Park (Africa of Java)
- Distance from Ijen/Banyuwangi: ~2 hours.
- Activity: Safari through savannah, spotting wild buffalo, deer, monkeys, and even peacocks.
- Why It’s Special: The “Little Africa of Java,” famous for sunrise and wildlife photography.
- Entrance Fee:
- Locals: IDR 16,000 weekdays / IDR 18,500 weekends
- Foreigners: IDR 150,000 weekdays / IDR 225,000 weekends
- Perfect Combo: Often included in Bromo Ijen Baluran packages.
Suggested Itinerary (Sample 4D3N Bromo–Ijen–Sukamade)
- Day 1: Surabaya/Malang → Bromo Tour
- Day 2: Transfer to Banyuwangi → Jagir Waterfall stop → Ijen midnight hike
- Day 3: Sukamade Turtle Beach experience (2D1N package)
- Day 4: Return via Banyuwangi or continue to Bali
Quick Price Reference for Ijen Tours
- Ijen Blue Fire Tour from Banyuwangi: IDR 500,000–700,000 (shared), IDR 1,500,000+ (private)
- Bromo Ijen Tour Package (3D2N): IDR 2,700,000–3,500,000 per person shared; IDR 6,000,000–8,000,000 private
- Bromo–Ijen–Sukamade (4D3N): Starts from IDR 4,500,000 shared
Final Thoughts
While Ijen Crater is the star attraction, the surrounding region is equally exciting. Whether you choose fishing trips, Sukamade turtle adventures, snorkeling in Menjangan, or surfing at Red Island, every activity adds depth to your East Java journey.
👉 If you’re booking a Bromo Ijen tour package, consider extending your stay to enjoy these top 8 activities around Ijen. It’s not just about the blue fire—it’s about experiencing East Java’s culture, wildlife, and coastal beauty.
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