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Hiking Mount Semeru, the highest volcano in Java

Hiking Mount Semeru – a slice of heaven in the heart of Indonesia’s ring of fire

Hiking Mount Semeru - the highest volcano in Java

Blessed with gorgeous panoramic landscape, East Java is home of spectacular volcanic peaks, with some of the best view points in Indonesia. There are four volcanic peaks higher than 3,000 m in the region. This volcanic activity has created a largely fertile area and flourishing agriculture in the area.

Mount Semeru is the most popular volcano in East Java and even in Indonesia. Soaring at 3,676 meter above sea level, Mount Semeru is the highest summit in Java. The mountain offers a good trail, a gorgeous savanna walk and a stunning campsite alongside the turquoise water and green hills of Ranu Kumbolo lake. Mount Semeru is a perfect destination for adventurous hiker as it offers challenging terrain and stunning views from the summit.

The journey to Mount Semeru actually started in Tumpang – Malang, when you take two hour scenic drive from hilly terrain with vegetables, apple farm and tropical jungle along the road to Ranupane, the entrance of Mount Semeru National Park. Due to challenging hilly terrain with a lot of benches, some narrow roads and few extreme ascents, it is strongly recommended for taking the 4×4 jeep with local experienced driver than taking a regular van.

Ranupane “the little Lukla”

Ranupane village is the “only” entry point to Mount Semeru. The village located right at the foot of Mount Semeru with the elevation of 2,100 meter above sea level. Once a tiny farming community, Ranupane village is now large trekker village with several accommodation options (most are fairly modest). There are shops selling everything from climbing logistics to outdoor gears, small restaurants, and climbing equipment rental shops. It just like a “little Lukla” in the Himalayan region of Nepal.

As the most popular volcano in Java, more than 140,000 trekkers climb Mount Semeru every year. It creates economic opportunities for people in Ranupane and other communities in the surrounding areas for working in trekking industry, from porters, mountain guides, homestay owners to jeep drivers etc. During busy trekking season, hikers could easily find a potato farmer as member of the supporting team for trekkers to climb the mount Semeru.

Normally on the first day, if you arrived at Ranupane at noon, you will stay overnight in a local homestay. After check in at local homestay, you can explore the farmers’ village of Ranupane, vegetable plantation and do a quick tour at the two lakes near the village. People in Ranupane are very friendly and nice. Walking around the vegetable plantation is also one recommended option for photographers who love human-interest photo theme. We can easily find little kids with chubby red cheeks –which are typical in high altitude areas – covered with their jacket or s arong helping their parent at their farm.

After nice overnight rest in Ranupane, trekkers will leave Ranupane in the morning. At first, the trail will take you over agriculture land, then climb steadily through tropical rainforest, where you’ll be rewarded with the first glimpse of the top of Mount Semeru.

Ranu Kumbolo lake is the first nice place to stop for resting and having lunch break after Ranupane. The splendid volcanic lake of Ranu Kumbolo is located at the heart of Bromo Semeru Tengger National Park, which is surrounded by stunning green hills and savanna. This beautiful lake, is a rendezvous point for those who are looking for peace and tranquility, which makes Ranu Kumbolo as the main camping point for trekkers heading to the peak of Mount Semeru. During daybreak at Ranu Kumbolo, trekkers will be greeted by mystical and mesmerizing sunrise, and beautiful lake view with layers of mist blanketing the lake. Serene and magical

From Ranu Kumbolo the journey continues to the breathtaking view of Oro-oro Ombo meadows which is surrounded by hilly pine forest. The-100 hectares savanna is one of the best scenic locations at Mount Semeru national park. During rainy season, the savanna looks green and fresh, meanwhile it looks a bit yellowish in dry season.

The next interesting stop point is a place called Jambangan. This is one of the best spot to see the eruption of Mount Semeru, with an ideal distance to capture the erupting volcano. At this place you will find some big tress where its trunks are covered by the white sheet. Those trees are considered as holy trees by local people, especially for those practicing Hinduism. Semeru also known as Mahameru (Great Mountain), it is looked on by the Indonesian Hindus as the most sacred mountain of all and the father of Gunung Agung in Bali. Every year, many Hindus come and visit Mount Semeru as part of their religious journey.

Summit attack: Heaven and hell

Everyone climbing Mout Semeru normally will start its summit bid from Kalimati campsite which located at the elevation of 2,700 meters above sea level. The summit bid starts right after midnight, carefully stepping on the steep terrain that awaits us, fully covered by our jacket and balaclava to keep out the high temperature until the light from the sun begins to appear in the sky.

From Kalimati, it is a short, steep climb to the start of the volcanic sands, and then a tough four-hour climb through loose scree to the peak, with constant battle of taking one step up and two steps down. The last three kilometers trail is very demanding that could break you down physically and mentally if you did not prepare yourself with appropriate physical training. For those who exercise regularly, your hard work will be totally paid off.

Then congratulation, you are on the top of Mount Semeru. From the highest point in Java, you will have a fantastic crater view with impressive live eruptions several times every hour. Mount Semeru offers one of Indonesia’s most epic natural spectacles, with its magnificent sunrise views and the panorama over Bromo, Tengger, Semeru National Park. On a clear day, there are breathtaking views of Java’s north and south coasts, as well as some others neighboring mountains on the horizon. Just be ready with your camera.

MOUNT SEMERU TRIP SUMMARY:

A trip exploring the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Ranu Kumbolo lake and experience the impressive live eruption from the top of Java.
Start/End: Surabaya
Duration: 3 days (including traveling day from Surabaya)
Elevation 3,676m located in East Java, Indonesia.
Trekking distance 42 km (round trip)
Elevation gain from the entry point of Mt Semeru : 1,576m
Accommodation: Homestay, camping.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

NOTE BEFORE HIKING MT SEMERU:

The national park put a strict 600 people threshold per day to preserve the environment of Mount Semeru. Visitors are encouraged to confirm the booking way in advance to secure the spot. Depends on the season, the quota fill up fairly quickly starting from 3 months until 3 days in advance of the hiking day. Holidays and weekends are definitely the most booked days
Furthermore, every hiker must present a health certificate/ fit to climb letter from a clinic or doctor during registration to prove they have an adequate level of fitness. In practice, this will be a simple medical checkup at local clinic that has to be conducted one day before hiking day.
The National Park recommends the climb only until Kalimati campsite, thus the National Park insurance only cover until safe hiking zone in Kalimati. Climbers still allow to climb the peak of Mt Semeru but at their own risk.

When the best season to climb Mount Semeru:

The best time to climb Mount Raung is from April to October. Every year hiking trails on Mount Semeru will be closed starting Jan. 1 until the beginning of April. The move aims to restore the ecosystem along the trails, which comprises a vast number of flora and fauna species, also to anticipate high intensity rainfall in that period, which make hiking in the mountain is considered unsafe.

How to get to Mount Semeru entry point in Ranupane ?

From Jakarta:

Take a direct flight from Jakarta to Abdu Rachman Saleh Airport Malang

Flight duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes. From airport take a taxi or rent private car to reach Tumpang, approximately 1 hours’ drive, then continue with 2 hours jeep to Ranupane

From Singapore:

Take a flight from Changi Airport Singapore to Juanda International Airport Surabaya. Flight duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Juanda Airport rent a private car to reach Tumpang in Malang, then continue with 2 hours jeep ride to Ranupane

Climb Indonesia offers Mount Semeru volcano adventure, which can be tailored based on your need. You can check details about our Semeru adventure package at Mount Semeru – touching the roof of Java or if you had time to explore splendid summits of East Java, you can visit our East Java Volcano Adventure page.

Interested?

We are a team with passion of outdoor activity and we are happy to talk to you.

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Hiking Mount Semeru (3.676m) – the highest volcano on Java

Semeru is a stratovolcano, which with its 3.676 meters above sea level , can be called the roof of Java. The mountain is also known as Mahameru , meaning ‘The Great Mountain’. The name originates from the Hindu cosmology’s mountain of Meru or Sumeru, the place where gods reside.

It’s a popular hiking destination that provides you with a feeling of real adventure. In the end, you are walking on an active volcano ! The activity can be noticed many times, especially when you see volcanic ash coming out of the crater at the summit. On the way up the mountain, you start thinking about how it will look up there. Is it even safe?

Semeru has a long history of eruptions and can be periodically closed for hikers. I was there in August 2019 and felt perfectly safe. Needless to say, care has to be taken on the last kilometers when walking on the steep and exposed slope and later when wandering around the summit. Most probably you will witness small eruption when volcanic ash goes into the air just a few meters from you but that’s the part of the game and the factor that attracts so many tourists. Just don’t come too close to avoid breathing it in. Everyone wants to have a selfie with a small eruption in the background and it happens every 20-30min!

Everything you need to know before you go

Technical details.

Summit: 3,676 meters above sea level
Altitude gain: 1,576 meters
Distance: 42 km return
Ranu Kumbolo Lake campsite: 2,400 meters above sea level (10.5 km from the starting point)
Kalimati campsite: 2,700 above sea level (7.5 km from Ranu Kumbolo Lake)
Final ascent: 3 km one way from Kalimati campsite
My difficulty rating: medium / hard

Best time to go

The dry season, which is the best time for the hike, starts from late April and lasts until November. During the rainy season from January to late April the trail to the summit may be closed but most importantly going there can be dangerous. It’s also the time to restore the ecosystem of the area.

How to get there?

We did the route Malang – Tumpang – Ranu Pane. The first leg was really straightforward as we ordered a taxi via the Grab mobile app. Just tell the driver to take you to the jeep’s departure point. Both Grab and Gojek are great ways to get around Indonesia. They work in the same way as Uber but very often have more options available. You can literally order delivery of anything you can imagine!

Being the only hikers there, we waited well over an hour for other people to join in order to lower the costs of jeep ride. Unfortunately, no one came. After bargaining, it cost us 150.000 IDR per person. The rule is simple – the bigger the group, the lower the cost per person is. They charge per vehicle and as it was only two of us, we had to pay a bit more.

Required documents

Medical check – must be obtained from the local hospitals or public health facilities 1 day before the hike. It’s an easy procedure – they just check your weight, high, blood pressure and ask about your general condition. I don’t remember the exact cost, but it was around 20.000-40.000 IDR. We did it in Malang 1 day prior to the hike but you may also do it in Tumpang or even Ranu Pane village.

Passport / ID copy – Photocopy of official identity document that is still valid. For hikers who are less than 17 years old, parents’ approval has to be signed and stamped (6.000 IDR fee) together with a photocopy of parents’ passport / ID.

Registration form – confirmation of online registration or the document filled in the office in Ranu Pane.

Bookings and prices

Registration for the permit can be done through the website of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Just follow the online booking registration flow, make a payment and wait for the confirmation email. The national park puts a limit of 600 people entering the trail every day, that’s why in high season it’s better to make the booking and secure a spot. Don’t forget to do it at least 3 days before the start of the hike.

There was a problem with processing the payment with my credit card, so if you have the same issue, just take enough cash and pay in the office in Ranu Pane. Apparently, if you don’t make a payment as soon as 5 hours after registration, it will be canceled. Even though, we didn’t have any problems explaining to the ranger that the payment couldn’t be processed and he accepted cash.

Ticket prices for Indonesians:

Working Day 19.000 IDR per person per day

Holidays 24.000 IDR per person per day

Ticket prices for Foreigners:

Working Day 210.000 IDR per person per day

Holidays 310.000 IDR per person per day

After picking up the permit in the rangers’ office, you will be invited to the briefing. They explain the route, location of the campsites and some safety tips to keep in mind. One rule is especially worth remembering: whatever you bring in, bring it out with you. There are no rubbish bins and unfortunately, trash can be found around campsites. Indonesia has a big problem with rubbish and makes sure not to leave anything behind. Simply throw it away in Ranu Pane village.

Itineraries

2 DAYS 1 NIGHT

You will walk 42 km in two days and the second one will be especially tiring. Do it only if you are an experienced hiker in decent shape. We did it this way and it was fine, though one extra day to enjoy nature wouldn’t hurt. The campsite at Ranu Kumbalo Lake is only 3 hours walk away from Ranu Pane, that’s why it seemed unreasonable to stay there for the night and we pushed to the end instead.

Day 1: Ranu Pane – Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Kalimati campsite Day 2: Kalimati campsite – Semeru summit – Kalimati campsite – Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Ranu Pane

3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS

The most popular and optimal version of the hike, giving you more time on the side of nature, taking all the sights at a slower pace. Good idea if you have more time to spend in the national park.

Day 1: Ranu Pane – Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Kalimati campsite Day 2: Kalimati campsite – Semeru summit – Kalimati campsite – Ranu Kumbalo Lake Day 3: Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Ranu Pane

4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

The very long and chilling version of the hike, for me it would be a bit too long though. But if you are with a group of friends, why not 🙂

Day 1: Ranu Pane – Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Kalimati campsite Day 2: Kalimati campsite – Semeru summit – Kalimati campsite Day 3: Kalimati campsite – Ranu Kumbalo Lake Day 3: Ranu Kumbalo Lake – Ranu Pane

With or without a guide?

Taking a guide is not necessary at all. The trail to Kalimati campsite is very easy to follow, there is a lot of people, small stalls selling food and drinks so it’s impossible to get lost. For the final summit push just follow the lights of other hikers and you will be fine as well.

Here is my basic packing list for the hike:

Camping: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, gas cooker, cooking pot, lighter. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can easily rent it everywhere in Ranu Pane.
Clothes: thermals, t-shirts, shorts, long pants, warm sweater/hoodie, gloves, hat, socks, underwear, hiking shoes, jacket. Don’t underestimate the weather. Even if it’s warm and nice in Tumpang or even Ranu Pane, the nights at the campsites will be cold as well as final ascent on exposed terrain.
Headlamp and spare batteries, hiking poles, sunglasses. Good light is essential as you will be walking hours in the night. Hiking poles are extremely useful on the last kilometers of the steep summit push so it’s good to have at least one.
First aid kit, basic medications, suncream.
Food Don’t take too much. Indonesia won’t leave you with an empty stomach. There are small stalls on the way where you can buy fruits, drinks, snacks. You will support the local community and keep your backpack lighter.

Accommodation in Ranu Pane

There are many accommodation options in the village and the best is to text them through Whatsapp or just come to the village and look around. We chose Thomas Sanjaya Homestay which was simple but perfectly sufficient. There was even a hot water shower which is not always the case in Indonesia. They also run a small shop for those willing to buy some extra noodles, cookies or rent a sleeping bag and gas cooker. The nights can get really cold in the region, giving us a feeling that next night in the tent for sure won’t be too warm!

On the trail – 2 days 1 night

Day 1: ranu pane village – ranu kumbolo lake – kalimati campsite (15km, 5-6h), stage 1: ranu pane village to ranu kumbolo lake (3-3.5h).

Around 7 am the guesthouse started to be busy with climbers getting breakfast and preparing for departure. The breakfast didn’t surprise – it was a simple nasi goreng (fried rice) with egg. I could say a lot about nasi goreng but let’s just underline that it is absolutely the most popular meal for budget travelers and I had it nearly every day 🙂

At around 8 am we were already on the way. First, following asphalt road to the gate of the national park where our permits were checked and then passing through cabbage fields into the forest. Surprisingly, I realized that taking so much food with us was absolutely not necessary. Why? There are warungs (little stalls) on the way! They sell fruits, cakes, drinks and of course fried rice or fried noodles. You can make a stop there and refill your energy, supporting local people running a rather challenging business. They have to descent back to the village every day and then go up again in the early morning, very often simply carrying products on their backs.

Mt Semeru still looked very far away and we admired its graceful shape from the distance when suddenly the cloud of volcanic ash appeared growing just at the summit! It looked totally amazing and it was the first time for me to actually see a small volcanic eruption. It has a long history of eruptions and since 1967 it is in a state of near-constant activity. Small eruptions can happen even every 20 minutes! While it’s an additional advantage that boosts your adrenaline, for your own safety you should never go off the hiking trail.

After 3 – 3.5 hours since departure from Ranu Pane, we arrived at Ranu Kumbolo Lake. There is a beautiful campsite there at the lakeside and obviously some warungs as well. Swimming in the lake isn’t allowed as the water is used for drinking and cooking. I regret a little bit that we didn’t stay there for an extra night. Next time!

Stage 2: Ranu Kumbolo Lake to Kalimati campsite (2-2.5h)

After a lunch break for cooking instant noodles and relaxation at the lake, we continued along much more steep part of the trail leading through forest and grasslands to Kalimati campsite. Here the backpack started to be really heavy and I was glad to have my trekking poles for extra support. Before, we could see Mount Semeru only occasionally, but now it’s getting closer and closer.

Around 2 – 2.5 hours later I was already setting the tent. The campsite was full of friendly hikers, everyone busy with cooking. If you are short on water, there is a source around 15 min walk from the campsite. Just ask locals for directions.

Having in mind that the night will be short, we tried to get some unstable sleep before the alarm woke us up at midnight.

Day 2: Kalimati campsite – Semeru summit – Kalimati campsite – Ranu Kumbolo lake – Ranu Pane

Stage 1: kalimati campsite to semeru summit (4-5h).

The nights at Kalimati campsite can get really cold and the best is to have your own sleeping bag as the rented ones are rather thin. Good idea is to have a thermal layer as well.

We started preparing our breakfast to warm up and feel some energy boost. Most of our things stayed inside the tent and we departed carrying a small backpack with water, snacks, a camera and an extra layer of clothes. Most of the people hit the trail between 00:00 – 01:00 am, so did we. There was a group saying that they want to depart as early as 10:00 pm but I think it’s way too early. Reaching the summit too early leaves you with nothing else to do than wait and get cold. Leave at midnight if you are slower and want to see the sunrise from the summit. If you are faster or it’s enough for you to see the sunrise on the way (which is awesome anyway), then 01:00 – 01:30 am would be enough.

I could imagine that the trail is difficult to follow if you go solo, but there were plenty of other hikers getting ready at the same time so we simply followed them. With everyone equipped with head-light, it looked like a moving dotted line in the middle of dark night.

From the campsite, we went into the forest but it didn’t take long to reach infamous volcanic ash and start of the crazy long and slow ascent. So glad that I had my hiking poles! With every 2 steps up, you pretty much slide 1 step down. It’s steep, it’s tiring, it’s cold and it may be very windy due to exposed terrain. You also have to be careful of loose stones rolling down the slope as people walk in front of you. Maybe it’s better that we walked in the darkness? At least we pushed forward not knowing how far we are from the summit.

Ok, I don’t want to scare you out! It’s definitely not easy but it’s doable. Just pace yourself properly and take breaks if you are running out of breath.

The summit is flat and there is a lot of space to take nice pictures and absorb the views. It’s worth following the trail along the ridge closer to the crater. Being the highest mountain on Java, panorama from Semeru’s top is simply spectacular. We also had a nice chat with a group of Indonesians that treated us with warm ginger drink and a soup! Having something warm in hands when resting on the summit after long and tiring ascent was exactly what we needed.

But the best point was witnessing 2 small eruptions that happened just in front of us. Exactly the same style as we saw the day before but this time we were only a few meters away. The cloud was growing and taking its shape, hanging in the air and slowly drifting away. The whole spectacle reminds of frequent volcanic activity and the power of nature in Indonesia. In the case of Semeru, eruptions like that usually happen every 20-30 minutes so just hang around and wait for it. Be ready for one of a kind pictures opportunity!

Stage 2: Semeru summit to Ranu Pane village (6-8h)

After conquering the summit in 5 hours, the way down to the camp took us… less than 1.5 hours. Using heels and sliding all the way down is the most effective and fastest way to descent. When turning around, it was hard to imagine that we really went up this steep trail in the middle of the night.

We did an hour break to cook breakfast, pack all the things and then continued way back to Ranu Pane. After reaching Ranu Kumbolo Lake I started to feel really tired and made breaks more often to take off the backpack and let my shoulders rest for a while. We arrived at the village totally exhausted but extremely satisfied.

The last step was to organize jeep transportation back to Tumpang and from there taxi to the hotel in Malang. As always in Indonesia, negotiate your price and try to join a group of other hikers to split the costs. We couldn’t find anyone and after tough haggling, the driver took us for 200 IDR / person.

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Hiking volcano semeru: trekking adventure of a lifetime.

This article is graciously sponsored by Indo Trekkers. To learn more visit them at www.indotrekkers.com

Mount Semeru ( Gunung Semeru in Bahasa Indonesia ) is an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in Java at 3,676 meters ASL (12,060 feet ASL). It is located at 8°6’28.8”S, 112°55’12.0”E in East Java, Indonesia. Hiking Volcano Semeru is a once in a lifetime experience with striking views and extraordinary adventure.

Mount Semeru

Things to know before you go.

Hiking Volcano Semeru - First Day
Hiking Volcano Semeru - Second Day

About Indo Trekkers

Hiking Volcano Semeru – First Day

The hike starts from Ranu Pani, Lumajang, 2,117 meters ASL. It is about a two-hour drive from Malang, either from the train station or from the airport. Ranu Pani is a small village at the foot of Semeru with about 2000 inhabitants. Starting from Ranu Pani is the only official route of hiking volcano Semeru as per the rules of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Vistas shortly after departing Post 1

The hike from Ranu Pani to Post 1 takes about 45 minutes, there you can have a short break at a small stall selling traditional Indonesian finger foods. Then you continue for two hours through open jungle until you reach Post 4. This location offers a post card picture perfect view of Ranu Kumbolo lake (2,389 meters ASL). Enjoy your lunch break with a view of the lake.

Picture Perfect: Ranu Kumbolo lake at 2,389 meters ASL.

When you continue the hike from Ranu Kumbolo, you must pass Tanjakan Cinta (Slope of Love) According to local myth, when you pass the slope of love, you should make a wish when you start walking. Then stay focused and never look back until you are at the top of the hill. If you successfully hike up without stopping, the myth says that your love wish will come true.

The trail will lead you through lavender fields called Oro-Oro Ombo by the locals. A scent that will stay in your memory for a while. After Oro-Oro Ombo, you will pass Post – Cemoro Kandang. The nature changes to a pine tree jungle and more open air until you reach Post – Jambangan and after that Post – Kalimati.

An adventure for all senses: Fragrant lavender fields greet you at Oro-Oro Ombo

Many hikers set up their tents at the Kalimati campsite. If you started 8 am from Ranu Pani with guide and porters, you should arrive at Kalimati by about 2 pm, depending on your fitness level. There you should rest and sleep if you can to prepare your body for the next part, the trail to the summit.

Hiking Volcano Semeru – Second Day

The summit push for Mt. Semeru needs to start by midnight. The reason for the early start is that Semeru, being an active volcano, has daily sulphurous gas cloud puffs by 10 am that are poisonous. It could be dangerous if one gets too close or the wind direction changes such that the gas cloud goes over the hiking trail. So by 9 am whether you have reached the peak or not, it is mandatory to go down to a lower level of the volcano to be at a safe distance to the gas clouds.

The summit: No words necessary

From Kalimati you will pass fields of Edelweiss the eternal flower, tight rough jungle and a section called the Last Vegetation. After that you will battle the deep sands trek which is the last section of this active volcano. Trekking on sand takes a longer time to than on a dirt trail and is a lot more exhausting. It is similar to walking on sand dunes. With every step up you seem to slide 4 steps down. You need to figure out the right technique so you won’t slide down. It can cause exhaustion (and frustration).

It is very important to bring a competent guide and porters when hiking volcano Semeru. They help to make sure you are on the right path, provide situational awareness and point out areas of danger. An example of such an area is just a few meters near the section of the Last Vegetation. At this time, when you are exhausted and lose focus, there is a 75m deep gorge called Blank 75 (Named as such because it’s 75 meters deep and hikers blank out). This zone is also called the Death Zone of Semeru. Some exhausted hikers have unfortunately gone missing in that zone. Hence having an experienced guide with you is critical to safely experience the unusual natural beauty of this active volcano.

If you are a very fit, the total trekking duration is about three days, with complete porters and guide so you only need to carry your day pack.

This article is graciously sponsored by Indo Trekkers. Book your trip to hike Mount Semeru, or other exciting treks around Indonesia with Indo Trekkers – complete, exclusive service to ensure your safety and satisfaction.

www.indotrekkers.com [email protected] Whatsapp +62 878 8708 0709

As a bonus, here is another interesting destination visited recently by Indo Trekkers. Peyek Hill Natural Sulphur Jacuzzi and Ciu Lung Wang Buddhist Temple in Bogor. A destination off the beaten path only about 1 hour south of Jakarta.

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Information on the trek to Mt. Sirung on Pantar Island

Gunung Semeru , also referred to as Mahameru (= "Great Mountain"), is the highest mountain on Java and one of the highest in Indonesia. It is a stratovolcano. It lies in Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, in the province of East Java. Semeru is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes . What stands out most about this mountain is the fact that it erupts periodically (and very reliably so). Every 20 minutes (August 2003) the volcano belches out a huge cloud of steam and smoke, sometimes interspersed with ash and stones. The scenery on the way is beautiful (the erupting volcano, the mountain savannah, the lake), and the views from the top are spectacular. You see the vast Sandsea caldera with other volcanoes, among them Bromo and Batok , and the sea. Semeru is a must for all mountaineers, hikers and nature lovers who happen to be in Indonesia. If you are flying from Denpasar to Surabaya, you can see Semeru, and you may see a horizontal chain of clouds stretching away from the peak. These clouds all have the same distance to each other due to the volcano's periodic activity. Many people climb this mountain, tourists and Indonesians alike. The steep-sided volcano rises abruptly to 3,676 m above coastal plains to the south. It is located at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the 16-km-wide Tengger caldera. The Tengger caldera actually consists of five calderas, the most recent being the 9-km-wide Sandsea caldera, with its cluster of post-caldera cones. The youngest of these cones is Bromo , another of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, and the country's most frequently visited. View a video of an eruption here .

Getting There

International airports: Denpasar , Jakarta Nearest domestic airport: Surabaya The starting point of the hike is the village of Ranupane . You can get there either via Malang and Tumpang or via Pasuruan/Probolinggo , Sukapura , Ngadisari , and Cemoro Lawang . You can take a microbus from Malang to Tumpang, and then a 4WD vehicle from Tumpang to Ranupane. But the latter of the above-mentioned routes is the more interesting because it leads across the 9-km-wide Sandsea caldera and passes Bromo, a post-caldera cinder cone. A dirt road leads across the flat bottom of the Sandsea caldera, up to Jemplang on its southern rim, and on to Ranupane. You have take a 4WD vehicle (unless you prefer to walk). There is accommodation in all the towns and villages mentioned above (including Ranupane).

The trailhead is just outside Ranupane. You don't need a guide to find the way up the mountain: once you have left the village behind and are on the track, you can't miss the summit. Section 1: Ranupane - Lake Kumbolo (Ranu Kumbolo) There are two tracks leading from Ranupane to Lake Kumbolo. From the eastern track you get a spectacular view of Semeru (see signature photo). Eastern approach (via Watu Rejeng): Leaving the village of Ranupane (about 2,000 m), walk up the road to Lumajang for a few hundred meters and turn right just before the road starts going down. There is a signpost and also the rangers are very helpful to put you on the track. Follow the path up through mountain forest to Lake Kumbolo (2,390 m). It will take you about 3 hours to get there. Western approach: Info about the western track will be greatly appreciated. Section 2: Lake Kumbolo - Kalimati (base camp) This is an easy and beautiful hike through tussock savannah. It will take you another 3 hours. You can even walk up to Kalimati at night if, for instance, you chose to do Bromo in the morning, set out from Ranupane in the afternoon, and want to reach the base camp on the same day. In a moonlit night, this can be a rewarding experience. Section 3: Kalimati (base camp) - summit From Kalimati a path leads up through mountain forest to the treeline (about 2 hours). The final ascent, above the treeline, is a steep and somewhat strenuous walk over volcanic scree and sand, which will take you another 1 to 2 hours. The top is a rather big, flat area. The present-day crater is a bit further on, below the summit, to the south. From the top, you cannot look inside the crater. For your own safety, stay clear of the crater rim. You can do the hike from Ranupane and back in 2 days / 1 night.

There are four camping areas. First, at Ranukumbolo, a beautiful lake, where you can find the last water resources on the route. Second, at Kalimati, which is situated at the borderline between a tussock savannah plain and the steep ascent through mountain forest up the actual volcano cone. There is a spring at a distance away from Kalimati. Third and fourth, at Arcopodo and Killik further up in the forest, where you will find several flat areas.

You must report to the ranger's office at Ranupane, where you are registered and have to pay an entrance fee of 20,000 IDR (= €1.70/$2.10). At the moment (June 2012) only permits for sections 1 and 2 (up to Kalimati) are being issued. You are not supposed to go any further, but everybody seems to climb the top. You are supposed to bring a health certificate, but if you don't have one, the rangers don't insist on it. Bring a copy of your passport. You can also hire equipment (tents, mats, sleeping bags, jackets) at the ranger's office.

When To Climb

April - November (but people also climb it in December)

Mountain Conditions
External Links

Additions and Corrections Post an Addition or Correction

David Donaldson - Jul 20, 2002 7:45 pm - Hasn't voted

The track from Ranu Pane to Ranu Kumbolo is about 10km and winds around the mountainside gaining a few hundred meters before dropping down to Ranu Kumbolo from the North. There are a few trees accross the track but otherwise quite easy walking. Be difficult to get lost on this stage! June 2002

David Donaldson - Jul 20, 2002 7:54 pm - Hasn't voted

You can rent tents and a guide porter from the losman in Ranupane. It is reccomended you take a guide and someone to carry the additional water and food. It can get confusing up high in dense cloud. You can get from Ranu Pane to Arcopodo in one day but unless you are fit you may not want to struggle to the summit the next morning! Altitude also makes you a bit lethargic if you have come from sea level. Ranu Pane losman has some of the coldest water in the world!!

David Donaldson - Sep 6, 2002 5:36 pm - Hasn't voted

Follow the link to read all about it.... http://www.post-gazette.com/healthscience/20000827volcano1.asp

David Donaldson - Oct 9, 2004 12:02 am - Hasn't voted

The normal 10km walk through the forest from Punu pane to Ranu Kumbolo gets a bit stale after 4 or 5 times. We had heard about an alternate route from Ranu Kumbolo heading over the hills and straight down into Ranupani. Youy need a guide on the last bit because it is difficult navigating thru the fields back to Ranupani. Time is about 30 minutes quicker than circuitous route and the views are just amazing. From Ranu Kumbolo head north around the lake but follow the trail left into the tussock valley and not right and up around the lake. The trail is clear and turns north to the end of the valley from whence it proceeds up the side and on to a pass. A bit steep and slippery but worth the effort. when you get to the pass head up the ridge a few meters for fantastic views of semeru. from here the trail descends relentlessly into ranupani. bring your best set of knees. It arrives in Ranupani slightly to the North of the town and you miss out on the 3km roadwalk on the normal route. We were on our second or third beer at Pak tasrips guest house before the others began trooping in

Anuj K - Nov 2, 2014 12:40 am - Hasn't voted

Here's a concise video journal of the entire hike, taken with a GoPro. Gives a good view of the entire route and the top with English captions : http://youtu.be/y-_azPBMd9g

gagarych - Jun 19, 2015 8:10 am - Hasn't voted

GPS track of western approach and new trail from Kalimati to summit: http://gaziga.com/semeru/semeru.kml Track to water source from Kalimati basecamp: http://gaziga.com/semeru/kalimati-water.kml Photos and report in my blog (in russian): http://gaziga.com/semeru/ Feel free to comment and ask any questions :)

bisbj - Oct 2, 2015 2:26 am - Hasn't voted

A GPS track and some information can be found here: http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=10791678

View Semeru Image Gallery - 60 Images

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Semeru (Mahameru)

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Climbing and Trekking Semeru in East Java

Published by ouss on december 23, 2017 december 23, 2017.

Note: limitation of 600 trekkers/day in the national park . To find out more about the number of places still available for Semeru hike, click here .

Semeru, also called Mahameru, is a volcano that erupts since 1967 with the altitude of 3676m above sea level (highest point of Java island).

But you have some questions: how to climb Mount Semeru and reach its summit? From where should I start? How can I go to Semeru? When to go? How much will it cost? Where can I find the guides and porters? Where can I find camping equipment? What are the mistakes that I should avoid?

How is the climb? What are the stages of the hike?

Many questions without answers! And lots of time and efforts to do research and read the forums, blogs, and sometimes you find that the advises and commentaries are contradictory.

The purpose of this article is to give you the necessary information to climb Mt. Semeru and the mistakes you should avoid. Then, for those who don’t want some headache and want to delegate the organization and logistical tasks to Go Volcano, y ou’ll find the program and related price.

Finally, for the curious minds, at the end of this article we will talk about Mt Semeru, and the believes and the legends that surround this mountain. We will also talk about eruptions and volcanic activity of Mt. Semeru.

But before, here is a jaw-dropping video about Mt. Semeru :

1.1.1.1 From Surabaya
1.1.1.2 From other cities :
1.1.2.1 From Malang :
1.1.2.2 From Tumpang :
1.2 When to go to Mt. Semeru ?
1.3 How much does it cost the access to the national park?
1.4 Where to sleep?
1.5 Hiking Mt. Semeru : with or without guide?
1.6 Where to find guide and porters?
1.7 Where to find camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag)?
1.8 Where to obtain the compulsory health certificate?
1.9 5 mistakes to avoid before and during the hike and climb of Mt. Semeru
2.1 Hiking Map of Mt. Semeru
2.2 Starting from Tumpang
2.3 Ngadas village
2.4 Ranupani Village
2.5 Ranu Kumbolo Lake
2.6 Kalimati
2.7 The summit attack of Mt. Semeru
2.8 The Descent from Semeru to Ranupani
3.1 Prerequisites for Semeru hike
3.2.1 Detailed Program and Itinerary
3.2.2 Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night
3.2.3 Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night for solo travelers
3.3.1 Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 3 days 2 night
3.4 Go Volcano Tours including Semeru
3.5 Other Go Volcano tours in East Java
3.6 Personal equipment that you should bring with you
3.7 Special Requests for Event Planning in Tengger National Park Bromo Semeru
4 Mount Semeru or Gunung Semeru – Mahameru
5.1 Map of risk prone areas of Semeru
5.2 Eruption of Semeru in 1994
6 Conclusion

9 things to know before hiking Mt. Semeru

How to go to mt. semeru.

The easiest way to go to Mt. Semeru is by passing through Malang (a city in East Java province) to Tumpang. Then from Tumpang ( 20 km eastward of Malang), you can take a jeep to high altitude village, Ranupani, in the foot of Semeru and from which the hike and climb will start.

Surabaya is the big city where Juanda international airport is located, from which the access to East Java will start. Then from this city you will go to Malang.

How to go to Tumpang and how much the transportation will cost?

From surabaya.

You can go to Malang by train, plane, bus, and of course taxi.

Taxi is the easiest option to go from Juanda airport in Surabaya to Malang.

There are few shared taxi companies that will take you from the airport to Malang, and that will cost you about IDR 120.000,-/person. The only inconvenience is that you will have to wait for other passengers until the car is full. Please note that the final destination for most of the shared taxi companies is Malang city center. Thus, you will have to take another mean of transportation or taxi to go to Tumpang.
Another option is by taking private taxi that will cost you about IDR 550.000,- to IDR 600.000,- per car for one way trip. The advantage is that the taxi can take you directly to Tumpang where you will take the jeep to Ranupani and Mt. Bromo.
You will find Bungurasih bus station in the south of Surabaya city, which is reachable by DAMRI bus from Juanda international airport for IDR 25.000,-/person. From Bungurasih, take an intercity bus to Arjosari bus station in Malang.
To go to Tumpang, take a white minibus from Arjosari bus station. This minibus is locally called “ angkot ” or “ mikrolet “. Let the driver know that you want to take TA (this is the direction code of the minibus), which stands for Tumpang – Arjosari. You will go until the last stop, which is a market, locally known as Pasar Tumpang. For accommodation and jeep reservation, you can go to Rani Homestay, located about 1.5 km from the market, or about 15 minutes of walk.

The land transport will take you about 3 hours (by private taxi) to 4 hours (by public transportations).

By train : it will take you about 2 hours to go to Malang, with limited service on economy class train, and you will have to add up the time to and from train station.

From Surabaya you can take the train from Gubeng train station in the city center, Surabaya Pasar Turi in the north of the city, or Wonokromo in the south of the city. There is a small station called Waru that is located within short drive by taxi from Juanda airport. Then you can stop at Blimbing train station, walk for 300m towards Perempatan Blimbing (a big intersection), and take TA (the white minibus) to Tumpang. You can also stop at Malang train station and take a taxi for IDR 70.000,- to IDR 100.000,- to go to Tumpang.

From other cities :

By train : There are some trains that connect Yogyakarta and Malang that will take about 7 to 8 hours journey. The train is preferable than a bus since it’s faster, more reliable, and better in term of service. If you want to go to Malang city center, stop at Malang train station. You can check www.tiket.com or www.traveloka.com to check the train schedule and buy ticket online.

By plane: There are direct flights to Malang from Denpasar (Bali), Bandung, and Jakarta

Remark : If you have occasions to go to Malang directly either by train or plane, do it. The flight ticket is higher than the one to Surabaya, but you will save time on the road between Surabaya and Malang. You will be fresh and ready for the hike. And if you book the jeep in advance, they will be willing to pick you up from the airport in Malang to either Bromo or Ranupani.

How to go to Ranupani?

From malang :.

The jeeps are prohibited to pick up passengers from the train station. Thus, you’ll have to take a taxi from the train station to Tumpang (IDR 70.000,- to IDR 100.000,- per taxi)

If you stay in a hotel in Malang, we can pick you up from your hotel for IDR 750.000,-/jeep/one way to Ranupani.
We can also pick you up from the airport of Malang for IDR 750.000,-/jeep/one way to Ranupani.

From Tumpang :

Jeep : IDR 650.000,-/jeep/one way (fits for up to 5 persons)
Ojek / motorbike taxi IDR 200.000,-/motorbike taxi/one way
Shared jeep for IDR 75.000,-/person. This option is only available on the high season (July-August), but you’ll have to wait until the jeep is full (10 to 15 people)

When to go to Mt. Semeru ?

Mt. Semeru is open between April to December or early January each year. There is no exact opening dates each year, thus we have to wait for further notice from the national park about the beginning of the hiking season.

How much does it cost the access to the national park?

Update on 2018 : The national park authority has applied the quota of 600 trekkers per day to enter the national park. Thus, there is high possibility that certain dates are fully booked. We suggest you to book the hiking permit quota in advance.

The entrance ticket is IDR 210.000,-/person/day during the week days, and IDR 310.000,-/person/day during the weekend. These tariffs for foreigners are 10 times more expensive than for locals!

Where to sleep?

Malang offers every type of accommodations, ranging from a bed in dormitories to five stars hotels.
Tumpang has limited offers. The best is Rani Homestay (1.5 km away from the market) where you can arrange transportation to Ranupani. They also offer hiking packages to Mt. Semeru and Mt. Bromo. Not to mention that the staffs speak English and French.
Ranupani has limited offers of basic accommodations, ranging from dormitories to basic homestay.

Hiking Mt. Semeru : with or without guide?

Having a guide is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. The beginning of the trails until the campsite is very clear. However, once you reach the pines forest right after the Kalimati base camp, things get more complicated. The summit attack is done at night, and it makes it harder to distinguish between the right and wrong path, as the path changes frequently due to erosion during rainy season. During high season, we might be able to meet many trekkers and hike with them. However, if you want to climb in peace and in your pace, having a guide is the best option.

Please also note that some people were lost and some have never been found. The luckiest ones were found several days after they got lost.

Where to find guide and porters?

The porters mostly are the farmers who live in the surrounding area of Mt. Semeru, thus Ranupani is the ideal place to find them. For the guide, it’s better to arrange in advance or find them from a homestay in Ranupani.

Please note that they only speak local language and Indonesian language sometimes.
The fee for an English-speaking guide start from IDR 500.000,-/day

Prices are there to give you information about the budget. It can be less than that, but it can be more as well. If you want to have experienced guides and porters, do not hesitate to contact us. We have some guides and porters who have been working with us since the beginning of our journey, so their experience and competence are proven.

Where to find camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag)?

There are several rental companies in Malang. However, the closest one is at Rani Homestay in Tumpang. Their tent and sleeping bags are in good condition and will cost you IDR 50.000,- per day for a set of tent, mattress and sleeping bag for 1 person. This option is preferable when you travel light. Don’t forget to book in advance as usually they are fully booked during high season.

Where to obtain the compulsory health certificate?

You have two options for that: You can go to a small hospital (Rumah Sakit Sumber Sentosa, Jl. Raya Kebonsari No. 221 Tumpang), or in a small clinic on the way between Tumpang and Ranupani.

The medical check-up will consist of measuring your weight, height, and blood pressure. It will cost you IDR 15.000,-/person, or about 1 USD.

Since 2018, there is a small clinic in Ranupani that can deliver health certificate for IDR 25.000,-/person. However, since it’s located in a relatively remote area, there is a chance that it is closed without precaution.

5 mistakes to avoid before and during the hike and climb of Mt. Semeru

Not to book the entrance ticket in advance
Coming without health certificate (your access to the hike will be refused)
Do the hike alone and not well informed
Coming during the period when the national park is closed (January to April)
Doing the hike without proper equipment. There were cases of hypothermia, and do not forget that Semeru is over 3500m high.

We have talked about the preparation before climbing Mt. Semeru. Now let’s talk about the hike itself!

Hiking and Climbing Semeru

First of all, is it dangerous to climb Mt. Semeru? Considering that it is an active volcano and in constant eruption.

After you read about the eruptions and activities of Mt. Semeru (in the last part of this article), you might think that it is dangerous to climb Mt. Semeru.

It’s not!

Most of the time, Mt. Semeru is not dangerous, especially since you will climb Mt. Semeru from the north side. Hiking Mt. Semeru from the south, contrary, is extremely dangerous, as well as approaching too close to the crater.

In the case of increased volcanic activity of Mt. Semeru, the national park will simply close and no hiking and climbing activities will be allowed.

In this chapter, we will explain how the hike will be, but first, we will put a hiking map of Mt. Semeru.

Hiking Map of Mt. Semeru

Starting from Tumpang

The journey will start from Tumpang, where you will take a jeep. About ten minutes drive away, you will see the beautiful farmland and you will pass through agricultural land comprising sugar cane, apple tree, vegetables, and oranges.

The higher you go, the closer you get to the jungle and the cooler climate. In some places the precipices are vertiginous. Extremely steep slopes. On the road, you can make a stop at Coban Pelangi waterfall (15000IDR / person), a waterfall that is unfortunately often ignored by tourists, while it’s a marvel and it’s on your way. The whole round trip walk will take you 30 to 60 min but it’s worth it!

A little further, there is also the possibility of doing white water rafting (250000IDR / person). It is just for a small pleasure that can be done with small children as young as 6 years old. It is not a river with high -level rapids and can be a little shallow during the dry season. But in the end …. a picture speaks better than 1000 words.

Ngadas village

After observing the jungle and making several steep turns on the volcanic slopes, suddenly you will see Ngadas, a village of breathtaking beauty! Finally, you will see the fields of potatoes, cabbages, onions, and others on a vertiginous slope. It is really a magnificent sight and the photos never do justice on capturing how steep and deep the slopes are!

However, it is necessary to go early enough to have the best chance of seeing this beauty, because the haze and fog often come in the afternoon!

You will continue to Jemplang, from where you will have a magnificent view of the caldera of Tengger – Bromo.

Ranupani Village

From Jemplang, you will continue to the right to reach the village of Ranupani. Since 2018, the road has become rather good, and the Jeep is no longer necessary (But it is likely that you will take a jeep to get you to the village. A story of habit and security because there is not so long ago the road was in very bad condition).

Ranupani, a high altitude village from which one start the hike and climb to Semeru, is located at more than 2100m above sea level. With the company of a guide and the porters, you will cross a cloud forest for about 10km to the lake Ranu Kumbolo (about 3 hours).

Ranu Kumbolo Lake

Upon your arrival at Ranu Kumbolo lake, you will have a lunch break. Lunch will be prepared by guides and porters. You will only have to carry your clothes, your water for the day, and some snacks during the trip. The porters will take care of tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, water, and food.

After lunch at Ranu Kumbolo Lake, you will continue your route to an altitude savanna. This place is most beautiful at the end of the rainy season, between April and May (see when to go to Indonesia, JAVA). The savanna is full of life, green, and flowery. Later in the dry season the savanna takes on a silvery gold color.

To reach Kalimati (Located at the foot of Semeru at 2700m above sea level) from Ranu Kumbolo lake, you will walk about 5km (2h walk).

So far the hike is rather easy without big difficulties, unless when the weather is terrible.

As a flashback, during a previous climb, it had rained without stopping! The path in the cloud forest had become a field of mud. And some places had turned into small rivers. At other sloping places, it was almost impossible to neither go up nor down! It was a real toboggan and descents were done on the buttocks. We were wet from head to toe. In the savanna, the soil was better because it was sandy, but when the water did not fall above the sky, it came from plants and tall grass that wetted us even more!

Despite of this, those who arrived very early have had some luck, but also fear of hearing a big bang and seeing glowing reflections in the night from the lava. At sunrise, they had the chance to have a 10-minute break to see this breathtaking landscape from the summit. Not to mention that the explosions of the volcano this year were very impressive in term of level of the detonation, but less impressive in term of the level of the plume of smoke! And yes the volcano is alive and from year to year the eruptions are different!

I would say that the hike to Kalimati was rather simple. But it is from here that things can get challenging, especially in term of weather. And yes, it is over 2700m and it is very cold at night.

You can at least comfort yourself with a wonderful dinner prepared by the porters. Hot tea, soups, fruits, and real foods! What a luxury at this altitude at the foot of the volcano and in the middle of nowhere.

You can also see a beautiful starry sky or a bright moon if you are there at the time of the full moon.

As I said before, it is very cold but you will have to wake up at 1:00 in the morning. Turn on your head -lamp, take a hot tea, and hop! the real attack of the summit will begin!

The summit attack of Mt. Semeru

It is a steep hike! In only 3,5km you will have almost 1000m of elevation gain! These 3.5km will take you around 3h for the fastest.

But that’s not all. Once the pine forest has been passed, you will walk on a ground that is a mixture of ash, sand, gravel and volcanic rock. To make it short, for every 3 steps forward you will take 2 steps backward. You will have the impression that you don’t even move forward, especially as the cold, the wind, the dust, and the altitude will be your physical and mental enemies.

Semeru is not the highest volcano or the highest peak in Indonesia, as it is “only” 3676m asl, but it’s one of the most difficult ones.

If you are brave, full of perseverance, and when you finally reach the top … Wow! the reward is of sublime beauty. This volcano, these explosions, these plumes of ashes, this sunrise, this cloud sea, the summits, and the neighboring volcanoes are just breath-taking.

On sunny days when the atmosphere is clear and the clouds are low, you can see the Indian Ocean in the south and the Java Sea in the north. The mountains and volcanoes of Arjuno, Welirang, Kawi, Argopura, Raung, and even Bali and the island of Madura are visible from the top.

It should be known that this volcano starts from the sea at 0m altitude until 3676m. At the top, you will overlook the entire island of Java. You will see the Tengger Massif and Bromo. You can even see the red lava during explosions! (rather rare and only when it is still dark).

After all, this climb is really worth it and is not only to conquer oneself! It is the discovery and the experience of a raw beauty. Violent and beautiful at the same time.

It is a wonderful feeling. We feel the volcano, the mountain that is alive, growl, shake and finally explode in a plume of ash and smoke. We feel it all in our guts. It’s quite difficult to describe, but we must live it to understand. And then we will get hooked!

The Descent from Semeru to Ranupani

Now I’m talking to you about something nobody talks about! It is only after having savored this moment, this communion with the volcano, with this mountain, with this nature. After having felt very small and insignificant beside this giant of fire and sulfur. Well, we have to go back down to Ranupani!

It’s about 20km to go in the opposite direction and on the same road as on the way up.

And also a word about the local associations of students, Ikapala, the associations of nature protection, the Savers … They made a gigantic and remarkable work of cleaning the Semeru, raising awareness and awakening the consciousness to the nature protection.

Today, if Semeru is relatively clean, part of the credit is theirs.

Now you know almost everything about the hike and climb of Semeru. You probably want to do this hike but without the hassle! Below you will find the program and all the corresponding prices.

Hiking, Trekking and Climbing Semeru with “Go Volcano”

For those who want to climb and hike Semeru with us and delegate the management of logistics and organization, you can start here.

The highlights of the trip:

Attend the regular eruption of an active volcano, Mt. Semeru (with the possibility of seeing lava)
Panoramic view of East Java volcanoes
Climb the highest volcano on the island of Java
Hike to a beautiful volcanic lake

Prerequisites for Semeru hike

Age requirement: older than 10 years old (according to national park regulations) Good physical fitness and medical certificate (according to national park regulations)

Semeru trekking and climbing trip 2 days 1 night

Duration: 2 days Price: from 125 € / 2,000,000 IDR Level: 4/5

Detailed Program and Itinerary

Day 1: Tumpang (600m above sea level) – Ranupani (2100m above sea level) Lake Ranu Kumbolo (2400m above sea level) – Kalimati (2700m above sea level)

You will have your breakfast at 6:30 am at your hotel, and you will go to a small clinic nearby to obtain a medical certificate (imposed by the authorities of the national park). You will then go by jeep to Ranupani, the starting point of the hike. You will see the rainforest along the way and will cross the village of Ngadas, from where you can take a look at the top of the Semeru volcano. After this scenic drive, you will arrive at Ranupani. One of the highest villages in Java, at 2100m altitude. From this village, you will take a path in the cloud forest for 3 hours to Lake Ranu Kumbolo (2400m above sea level), where you will have a lunch break. After lunch, you will continue the hike for 2 hours to Kalimati base camp (2700m above sea level), where you will have dinner and camp for a night . Accommodation: tent (1 tent for 2 persons) Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Kalimati (2700m above sea level) – Summit of Semeru (3676m above sea level) – Ranupani (2100m above sea level) – Tumpang (600m above sea level)

You will wake up at 00:30 to have coffee or tea and snacks before the summit attack of Semeru. You will then walk on a very steep sand slope with almost 1000m altitude for about 4 hours for the fastest. Once at the top of the volcano you will have a beautiful sunrise and a spectacular 360 degree view of East Java and of course the eruptions of the volcano at regular intervals. Then you will go down to Kalimati (about 1.5 hours) or you will have a breakfast and a quick nap (in this part you have to be careful to follow the path, hikers and trekker have already lost!). From there you will go to Ranu Kumbolo Lake for lunch (about 1.5h). After that, you will do the last 3 hours of walking to the village of Ranupani. You will then reach the village of Tumpang by 4×4 jeep for an hour and a half. Accommodation: – Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night

Do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions, or to ask for quotes with chosen option, or to ask about departure date.

For 7 people and more: from 2 000 000 IDR is 125 € / person
For 4 to 6 people: from IDR 2 150 000 or 135 € / person
For 3 people: from IDR 2,300,000 or 144 € / person
For 2 people: from IDR 2,800,000 or 175 € / person

These rates include:

The services of an experienced English-speaking mountain guide all along the circuit.
Porters for camping equipment, water and food (1 porter / person ).
Medical certificate.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (4 meals).
Mineral water, snacks, and fruits during the days of hiking.
Non-conditioned 4WD jeep from Tumpang to Ranupani, round trip.
Camping equipment (1 tent / 2 people, sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, inflatable pillow, camping chair, toilet tent)

Not included :

Entrance ticket to the national park about IDR 230,000 (€ 14.50) / day/person on weekdays and IDR 330,000 (€ 20.50) / day / person on weekends and holidays (so count between € 29 and € 41 entrance fee to be added per person)
Rani Homestay (Tumpang): IDR 350,000 (€ 22) / room (2 persons per room) breakfast included (dinner or lunch on request: IDR 60,000 (€ 3.75) meal / person)
Hostel: price from € 5.50 in dormitories (several good addresses on Malang)
Luxury Hotel
Malang (station, airport, city center) – Tumpang: 6,25 € / vehicle (one way)
Surabaya (airport station, city center) – Tumpang: 47 € / vehicle (one way)
tips & personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs)
Travel insurance & assistance
Articles that are not mentioned in “included”

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night for solo travelers

For a solo traveler, we also offer the opportunity to climb the Semeru at a reasonable price from IDR 2,700,000 or € 169.

However, this trek will be done without a guide. But, you will have 2 porters speaking only the local languages.

It will also be your porters who will ensure your transport by motorcycle (as well as logistics).

Porters will take care of the logistics: food, water, gas and tools for the kitchen, tent, sleeping bag …

You will carry your clothes and your water of the day.

So this price includes:

Motorcycle from Tumpang to Ranupani, round trip.
Camping equipment (1 tent, sleeping bag, inflatable mattress)

Not included : Same as above

Semeru trekking and climbing trip 3 days 2 night

There is also the possibility of hiking semeru in 3 days and 2 nights.

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 3 days 2 night

Do not hesitate to ask us your questions and to request price estimation with the options chosen and the dates by contacting us.

For 8 people and more: from 2 800 000 IDR is 175 € / person
For 4 to 7 people: from 3 000 000 IDR is 187 € / person
For 3 people: from IDR 3,250,000 or 200 € / person
For 2 people: from IDR 3 800 000 or 237 € / person

Go Volcano Tours including Semeru

Surabaya / Malang – Semeru – Bromo – Kawah Ijen – Banyuwangi / Bali => from 214 €, duration 4 to 5 days, Difficulty: 4/5.

Other Go Volcano tours in East Java

Surabaya / Malang – Bromo – Kawah Ijen – Banyuwangi / Bali => from 105 €, duration 3 days, difficulty 1/5. Bali / Banyuwangi – Ijen – Raung

Personal equipment that you should bring with you

Comfortable backpack with rain cover (25 to 30 liters). Sunglasses. Hat. Cap. Sunscreen or anything else that will protect you from the sun. Waterproof coat and/or windbreak. You will have to bring it to the top (it’s cold and windy). Headlamp. Hiking boots. Mask / scarf / multi-purpose mask. Hiking poles. Bottle of water

2 t-shirts 2 technical shirts 1 special hiking pants (especially no jeans) and 1 track-suit/tights for pajamas or overcoat. Warm clothes, a jacket, a fleece, a sweater. Gloves, hat and scarf. It can be very cold at the top socks (2 additional pairs)

Personal medications. We will provide a first aid kit, but please bring your own prescribed medication. Do not forget to bring your good mood ?

Note: This list is for reference only. You can add more equipment to suit your personal needs.

Special Requests for Event Planning in Tengger National Park Bromo Semeru

For all inquiries about the Semeru volcano and the activities you would like to organize (ie TV shooting, running, trail running and all other unusual requests, do not hesitate to contact us!)

We have already organized: the shooting of the Indonesian film 5 centimeter in 2012 – “Les Volcans de l’extreme “, an ultra trail on the 7 peaks of East Java in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 – the shooting of the French program Echapées Belles in 2016 – and other being organized for the year 2018.

We will provide you with as much infromations as possible and we will contact the authorities of Tengger Bromo Semeru National Park and organize necessary permits.

In the near future, we will also list all the hikes and treks we offer around Semeru. (Off the beaten track but without climbing the volcano).

Now that all the practical aspects of the Semeru Climb have been mentioned. It’s time to talk about the Semeru volcano! so for the curious, below you will find a description of the Semeru, its volcanic activity, and its eruptions!

Mount Semeru or Gunung Semeru – Mahameru

The Semeru volcano is reputed to be a “safe bet” for volcanic activity in Indonesia. It produces a small volcanic eruption every 30 minutes or so. Indeed, the eruption that began in 1967 has been continuing uninterruptedly until today.

It is an explosive activity that is generally quite unimportant, oscillating between the Strombolian style and the Vulcanian style.

Mount Semeru, or Gunung Semeru in Bahasa Indonesia, is an Indonesian volcano, located in the province of East Java. It is the highest point of the Java island with 3,676 meters of altitude and 22 kilometers in diameter.

It is said to be the incarnation of the Hindu sacred mountain, Mahameru “The Highest Meru” (the other name of Semeru), sent to Java to appease the Indonesian islands that were suffering from instability. Its crater encloses the entire Hindu pantheon which also maintains links with other sacred volcanoes of Indonesian Hinduism: the nearby Bromo, the Agung in Bali, the Rinjani in Lombok.

The summit area consists of a plateau (Mahameru) which is the highest point, next to which is the active slag cone, Jonggring Seloko (the crater with a diameter of about 600 meters). these two points are separated by a valley oriented East-West, 50 meters deep. The crater of Jonggring Seloko is horseshoe-shaped open to the Southeast (we can see it in the video above).

Located south of the Tengger Caldera, Semeru is part of the largest volcanic complex in the East Java Province, grouped within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park and open to climbing between May and December (e xact date to be confirmed for each year).

The eruptions of the Mt Semeru

Semeru is one of the 3 most active and dangerous volcanoes in the Indonesian archipelago. It is located in a densely inhabited area, Lumajang to the east, Pronojiwo, Tempeh, Pasirian to the South East and the big city of Malang (+1.5 million inhabitants) to the west.

In 1901, the city of Lumajang was destroyed!

The activity of the Semeru volcano can become paroxysmal, and generate imposing Vulcanian plumes, sometimes accompanied by pyroclastic flows and lahars.

Semeru eruptions in 1901, 1913, 1941, 1945, 1946, 1956 and 1967 were violent and projected eruptive material of more than 6000 meters high. Because of its altitude, we always are afraid of its lahars, which in 1981 caused 252 victims and destroyed 16 villages and 626 hectares of rice fields and plantations.

Since 1967 its explosive activity is regular and continuous. Medium-intensity explosions escape from one or the two of five mouths aligned in the bottom of the crater Jonggring Seloko, projecting eruptive material (blocks and ashes) at heights of 400 to 1000 meters, every 30 minutes or so. The bottom of the crater consists of a viscous lava dome that rises slowly.

A lava dome began a very active growth in 1967 until 1977. The lava dome completely filled the crater, then rose another 70 meters above the ridges. It is a period during which it was destabilized several times and generating pyroclastic flows which descend the South-East flank, as in 1974 when it traveled more than 7 km.

In 1977, a huge explosion shook the lava dome, projecting eruptive material between 6000 and 8000 meters high. The depth of the crater then drops down to about 300 meters.

In July 1990, the lava dome collapsed and formed a new crater about 700 meters deep, causing part of the volcano’s flank and creating a huge gap facing Southeast.

A new dome is installed. The volcano then resumes a typical activity with panache up to 1.5 km in height (August 1997), explosions, fiery clouds, avalanches of blocks and lahars. Gradually, following this regular activity, the bottom of the crater rises to be located in 2002 less than 200 meters from the edge of the crater.

On December 29, 2003, a pyroclastic flow took the Besuk Bang River and traveled more than 9 km until it stopped near the village of Supiturang, who was evacuated due to the risk of other pyroclastic flows.

The activity of Semeru is characterized by cycles of elevation followed by collapse and explosions that generate glowing avalanches, fiery clouds, and lahars. In 1990 the depth of the crater was about 700 meters, while in 1977, the altitude of Semeru went from 3676 to 3745 meters.

Map of risk prone areas of Semeru

The South-East flank is regularly subject to fiery clouds that sweep down the valleys of the Kembar and Kobokan rivers, during the rainy season, this ashy and unstable flank is also conducive to lahars (mudslides)

Eruption of Semeru in 1994

On 3 February 1994 observers from the Volcanological Institute of Indonesia (VSI) as well as people living near Semeru heard a thunderclap at 3:50 local time and then saw the fallout of ashes.

Lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows from the summit crater have descended the slope following the course of the Kembar and Kobokan rivers over a distance of 7.5 km and 11.5 km from the summit. Volcanic materials also affected the village of Sumberwuluh, located 8 km southeast of the volcano’s summit, between the two rivers.

Six people were killed, following lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows. 275 people were evacuated from Sumberwuluh, where many homes and 1.5 km² of plantations were destroyed.

The seismic station at VSI has also been destroyed.

The eruptive and seismic activity of the volcano increased at the end of 1993, with frequent collapses of the lava flow. Volcanic shocks had been recorded since October, with a peak on 25 December 1993. Permanent trenches of maximum amplitude 26 mm were recorded between 26 January and 3 February 1994.

Eruptive and seismic activity continued after February 23, but the intensity weakened. The daily number of explosive jerks reached 360 on February 5, 1994 and then dropped again, while remaining above 70 tremors a day in mid-February. Volcanic trenches were again recorded between 9 and 14 February with a range of 13mm.

The ash projections formed clouds that could rise up to 700 meters above the summit. Pyroclastic flows and avalanches of lava flowed for 3 km in the kembar and kobokan river beds. The lava extrusion from the crater overflowed the south lip to form a 750 meter long lobe, advancing on the south flank towards the Kembar River.

Semeru is a unique volcano, thanks to its regular eruptive explosions. Imagine yourself at the top, witnessing mini volcanic eruptions.

In addition, it is very accessible, even if the effort to do is far from negligible!

So what do you think of this article? Are there any questions I have not answered? Missing information?

I invite you to respond to this article in the comment section.

And to discover other active volcanoes!

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Climbing the Mountains of Indonesia & Malaysia

Elevation: 3,676 m (12,060 ft)
Prominence: 3,676 m
Ribu category: Sangat Tinggi
Province: Jawa Timur (East Java)
Google Earth: kml
Other names: Mahameru
Eruptions: 1818, 1829-30, 1832, 1836, 1838, 1842, 1844-45, 1848, 1851, 1856-57, 1865, 1887-97, 1899-1901, 1903-05, 1907-13, 1941-42, 1945-47, 1950-64, 1967-present

Bagging It!

Semeru is Java’s highest peak and has been active for decades – a cloud of black volcanic ash and sand is frequently released from near the summit – sometimes once an hour, sometimes as often as every ten minutes. There have been numerous fatalities, but it is a popular and safe hike if you treat the mountain with respect and as Java’s highest peak, it is one of the finest hikes in Indonesia.

The trail starts at the village of Ranu Pani (2,109m) where there is basic accommodation available and you will need a minimum of two full days for the hike to the summit and back. The standard choice now is to spend one night at Ranu Kumbolo and a second at Kalimati before making a pre-dawn ascent to the summit, although if you are very fit and start early enough on Day 1 you can just stay at Kalimati and complete in two days total.

There are many trekking agencies in East Java who offer jeep transport across the length and breadth of the National Park including the vast Bromo caldera and to Ranu Pani village itself from the city of Malang via Tumpang. Thankfully it is not yet possible to drive to the summit of Semeru! However, the road from Malang to Ranu Pani offers breathtaking views and reaches an elevation of over 2,400m at its highest point.

From Ranu Pani follow the road towards the lake which gives the village its name and make sure you take a right just before red entrance posts (2,130m). A left turn up onto a narrow track through forest is just a couple of minutes further along and once you’re on this trail it is quite difficult to lose your way because there are frequent cement markers and green shelters at 2,284m, 2,346m and 2,426m respectively. The path is even paved at this point. Look out for monkeys in the area.

It’s a long 14km to Kalimati basecamp (2,669m) but the route goes via the beautiful Ranu Kumbolo lake (2,382m) which is a good camp spot in its own right. It can be reached in 4 hours from Ranu Pani but is famous for its low temperatures at night – frost is common so remember to take plenty of warm clothing and don’t leave your boots outside. There are a couple of huts on the far side of the lake before which the path ascends a hundred metres or so before descending again into an area which is sometimes covered in beautiful purple flowers (Oro-oro Ombo – 2,460m, followed by Cemoro Kandang (2,500m).

Kalimati (2,672m) – which lies beneath but in view of the rocky cone of Semeru summit itself – is another 3 hours of fantastic, easy hiking across savanna-esque landscapes via Pos Jambangan (2,745m) and is perhaps marginally warmer. There is a somewhat shabby hut at Kalimati and the flat area surrounding it is a very popular camping area and water is to be found about 15 minutes walk down to the right (2,581m).

The path descends a little from Kalimati before ascending steeply up the forested base of the cone of Semeru itself. Another 2 km (one hour) is Arcopodo (2,912m), which used to be the best place to camp if you intended on reaching the summit at dawn. It is no longer recognized as a camp spot so Kalimati is now the best choice for pre-summit camp in order to have the best chance of clear views and more importantly to avoid the worst of the gasses. There used to be a pair of statues at Arcopodo but it is presumed they were covered during landslides.

It is about 3 hours from Arcopodo to the summit and the track is very steep. In some places lower down there are cement posts to guide you but many of them have long since toppled over and are buried in volcanic scree! The treeline ends at 3,110 (Cemoro Tunggal) and there are excellent views particularly to Arjuna. You may also spot some pre-dawn camera flashes from the famous viewpoint Gunung Pananjakan on the northern side of the Bromo caldera. The summit cone is very slippery with small volcanic rocks – definitely a case of two steps forward and one step back.

As you near the top you may literally feel the earth move as Semeru sends another cloud of volcanic sand into the air. There are lots of monuments to people have lost their lives up here but generally speaking the climb is safe – but do not head closer to the crater itself from the summit. The view from the rooftop of Java is as incredible as you might expect – a vast panorama of all of East Java’s major peaks, something to savour before the hike back to Ranu Pani, which can be done in one long day. The first section down the scree is a lot of fun – what takes 3 hours to climb takes just 1 hour to scree-slide down!

On the way back to Ranu Pani, the more adventurous may like to try an alternative route from Ranu Kumbolo back to the village via Gunung Ajekajek / Ayek-ayek. It is a lot steeper – a 300m climb again – but marginally shorter in terms of both distance and time. If you have any energy left it makes an interesting alternative to the fairly bland plod along the normal route. Take a left turn at the lake and follow the path as it leads through lovely grassy flat landscapes before heading right up the hillside once more. After an hour you will be at the top of the pass (2,719m) which offers rarely-seen views of Semeru. Down below you in the opposite direction (north) is Ranu Pani and the Bromo caldera beyond. This now infrequently used trail used to be the main route to Semeru several decades ago.

Bagging information by Daniel Quinn.

Local Accommodation

Featured guides.

If you are a reliable local guide and would like to be featured on this page to increase your bookings, or a tourist who would like to support the development of a local guide business, please email [email protected] with the following information: Mountain name, guide name, guide location, guide contact details, and at least one English language review from a previous hiker who was pleased with the guiding services. An example is given below for reference. We have a maximum quota of 3 featured guides for each mountain page on the site. The fee for this is £20 (British pounds sterling, typically via the Wise app or PayPal) for a period of 1 year and helps to pay towards the ongoing development of the Gunung Bagging project.

Name and location: Pak Budi, Surabaya, East Java.
Contact details: +62812xxxxxxxx, [email protected], https://www.instagram.com/budi_mountain_guide/
Review from previous client: “ Budi was a brilliant guide for our September 2023 trek up Gunung X and I would definitely recommend him to other tourists “, John, USA.

Practicalities

Getting there: Best to arrange transport to Ranupani in advance. Malang is the closest city with an airport but there are many more flights to Surabaya (including international flights).
Guides and GPS Tracks: Want a PDF version for your phone? Looking for a guide? Need GPS tracks and waypoints? Gunung Semeru information pack can be downloaded here .
Trip planning assistance: Would you like Gunung Bagging to personally help you in arranging your whole trip? Please contact us here .
Permits: Available from the homestay in Ranupani – take a photocopy of your passport photo page. You also need to present a health certificate which must include a) blood pressure and b) data for body-mass-index. Health check can usually be done in Ranu Pani but if possible get it done in advance to save time. Indonesian citizens pay Rp17,500 per day to enter the park (Rp22,500 on weekends and holidays) and foreigners including those with KITAS/KITAP who already pay local taxes pay Rp210,000 per day (Rp310,000 on weekends and holidays). Indonesian citizens must reserve their entry ticket online (limited to 600 per day). One advantage to being a foreigner is that (in 2019) you do not need to book online in advance.
Water sources: Available at Ranu Kumbolo and near Kalimati.

Local Average Monthly Rainfall (mm):

Origins and Meaning

Also known as Mahameru, meaning ‘The Great Mountain’. The name is derived from the Hindu-Buddhist mythical mountain of Meru or Sumeru, the abode of gods. (Wikipedia, 2011)

Links and References

Wikipedia English Wikipedia Indonesia Wikipedia. 2011. Semeru. Accessed from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semeru

87 thoughts on “Semeru”

WSW of the peak of Semeru, on the cone, at an elevation of around 2950m, is apparently an old candi / temple, actually half buried in volcanic scree. There is a Google Maps marker with the name ‘Situs Umpak 9’. This could only be reached on ‘illegal’ routes up from Dampit to the southwest, possibly the same route as the obscure Limpak, a minor peak to the west of Semeru’s cone. Would be interesting to hear of any more details about this old temple that few know about.

Hi Dan, did you go to the summit on April 2022 or it’s only the date of your post ? I heard the Semeru access is closed after the eruption of December 2021, and maybe until the end of 2022. I go in Java on September and I’d like to know more about it. Thanks a lot for your help. Xavier.

Hello Xavier. I haven’t hiked Semeru for over a decade! Here’s the booking site: https://bookingsemeru.bromotenggersemeru.org/ I am not sure if you are allowed to the very top at the moment. It can change frequently.

https://en.tempo.co/read/1535735/mount-semeru-erupts-emitting-volcanic-ash-rains

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – East Java’s volcano, Mount Semeru, erupted on Saturday, December 4, 2021, emitting hot avalanches and thick volcanic ash rains at around 15:00 Western Indonesia Time (WIB). Two districts in Lumajang Regencies, East Java were seen to be showered with thick volcanic rain.

A Twitter user account @pambudi_dhani uploaded a video showing the condition during the Semeru volcanic rain which could be felt until Malang Regency. In the video, the sky was seemed to be dark as if it was night time while it was only 16:00.

“Semeru volcanic ash [rain] today at 4 p.m. looks like a night time #prayforsemeru,” he tweeted.

In the video, @pambudi_dhani mentioned that his position was in Sumber Wuluh, Malang Regency. He called on the village heads in Lumajang and Malang areas to be vigilant.

Currently, Lumajang disaster mitigation agency is monitoring the situation following the volcanic eruption. A number of personnel have been set to follow up on the current condition from the impact of Mount Semeru eruption.

For those thinking of visiting Tumpak Sewu / Coban Sewu (‘a thousand waterfalls’) which lies directly south of Gunung Semeru near the road between Kepanjen and Lumajang, note that there are two different access points to two different viewpoints opposite each other – one on either side of the river – the Malang side and the Lumajang side.

Few can see the images online captured by drone here – with Gunung Semeru in the background – without putting it on their list of places to visit, and I would definitely say it’s the finest waterfall I’ve seen in Java. We stayed in one of a small number of local homestays and went down the path on the Lumajang side. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the ‘panorama’ viewpoint but you can venture further down on steep bamboo steps and ladders to explore other pools etc and make a half-day out of it.

Alas, the weather was quite misty when we were there so I doubt Semeru would have been visible even if we had been on the other side – the Malang side (west) which is where I think the photos with Semeru in them are taken.

I did this hike last month (June) and pretty much what Chromakey has written in the comments below is spot on.

I’ll list my experience below for those interested.

I rented a scooter and camp gear from Surabaya (100k per day for scooter and 50k per day for tent, sleeping bag, cooker, mattress and gas. If you type Rental Motor Surabaya into google maps he will come up. He rents scooters and camp gear.) and headed to climb Arjuno and Welirang before a rest in Malang and then onto Semeru.

I came here in 2015 but was stopped by a massive wildfire between Ranu Kumbolo and Kalimati during the Independence day so I was back to give it another go.

I got my health check in Tumpang for 15k at “Klinik An-Nisa”. If you type that into google maps it will direct you there if you need the check. I didn’t know if you could get one in Ranu Pani but it turns out right across from the registration office there is indeed a health checkup place. So you can just get it all at the registry office if you need. Don’t forget your passport photocopy aswell.

NOTE – As a foreigner, there is no need to book online. This ONLY applies to Indonesians. I just went to the office, paid my money and gave the forms and was ready after 5 minutes. The Indonesian line was about 50 people long and the foreigner line was empty.

I parked the bike in the secure, undercover parking (5k per day) and was off. It took 3 hours to Ranu Kumbolo, 2 hours to Kalimati. 3.5 hours to the summit, 40 minutes summit to Kalimati and 3 hours 30 from Kalimati back to the registration office.

There were a LOT of people on the trail. They limit the entry to 600 per day but most Indonesians spend 3-5 days in here. This means theoretically there could be more than 3000 people in there at any one time. When I came back past Ranu Kumbolo I couldn’t believe my eyes with the number of tents set up there.

The summit day was intense. I must have taken a wrong turn in the dark because I ended up 100m across from everyone once we popped out of the trees. I was glad in the end because there were just so many people going to the summit.

I got to the top at 5 am, just as the glow was coming over the horizon. I walked down to check out the remnants of an old weather station before heading over to the crater viewing area. They told me not to go more than 50m from the crater when I registered but the main summit is a good 200 or more meters away. I was the only one at the viewing platform for a good 30 minutes before heading back to the main summit. As I walked back I saw there were some rocks laid on the ground to tell you not to walk down but I didn’t take that route so missed that part. There is a small rock and a clear area where people used to view the crater so I’m not sure why it’s supposed to be off limits now. Its certainly around 50m-100m from where the small eruptions happen so according to the staff at the registration office this is fine as it’s further than 50m away.

I left the summit at 7 am, was at Kalimati by 740. Packed the tent and was back at the bike just after 11 am. As I came from Malang I didn’t realize how far the ride to Surabaya was. It took me over 5 hours to get back there. I was so tired, I’d been up since 1.30am and it wasn’t until 6 pm that I was back in the city.

This mountain is certainly very beautiful but also very tough. My GPS read 38kms in the end with 2900m of up. You have to have a decent level of fitness so you don’t get burned out or sick afterward. Especially after hiking Arjuno and Welirang the day before it was quite demanding.

Thanks for the information. My wife and I are planning a solo hike in August. As we are arriving in Surabaya, I was wondering if we could arrange transport from Surabaya directly to Ranu Pani, and vice versa when the hike is over. So far I haven’t been able to find out any information on this. Or would it be easier to make transport arrangements from Malang? Any suggestions would be appreciated 🙂

Either Malang or Surabaya should be no problem. This being Java you can arrange transport practically anywhere and any time, especially using Grab / Gocar or local car and drivers. However, you might get overcharged if you have to negotiate on the spot at an airport. Grab is a good option pricewise but I think the official Surabaya Airport policy doesn’t allow them to pick up there. Could be wrong though – difficult to keep track of it. As for Malang, compared to Surabaya it’s a more attractive place to visit in my opinion but going Surabaya – Malang – Ranu Pani is going to take a while longer than simply Surabaya to RP. Haven’t done either recently so I cannot comment on road surfaces!!!

J’ai lu ton post. Il est possible de monter sans jeep à ranu Pane ?

Hey Ryan, curious as to what you think about doing this in just one day. My girlfriend and I are experienced hikers and mountain runners so the 38km doesn’t sound too tough. Did you come across anyone doing this? Also, how about avoiding the high cost of the entrance fee? Had no problems on Rinjani doing this. Debating on paying the fee for Semeru but was disappointed in the amount of garbage in other “natural spaces” in Indonesia. Cheers.

This is a great site! Information is still pretty relevant, just that every year the opening season for Semeru changes. It is from 1st week of April for 2019.

I did a detailed blog post on my 2 trips in 2018: https://www.yonderingsoles.com/2019/04/11/semeru/

Take a look if relevant!

A buddy and I plan to hike Semeru in December (to start any day between 21 – 25 December). We are planning to do it independently without tours, so if anyone could offer any advices or wish to join us in our hike let us know!

+6597335386

Thanks for the great article and also the info in the comments!

I’m planning to hike Semeru alone in September so I’m happy to team up and hire a guide / transport. Dates around 5th-10th September 2018 Send me an email: “[email protected]” Daniel 🙂

Back from a 2 days solo trip to Semeru.

Regarding the hike : left Ranu Pani at 10AM, was at Kalimati at 3PM including 40min lunch break at Ranu Kumbolo lake. This part is easy with very little elevation difference.

Camped at Kalimati. Left at 2:10AM, reached summit at 5:40 exactly when the sun rose. Leave maybe 30min earlier if you want to observe all the colors in the sky from the top. Quite cold and windy up there.

Started descent at 6:30, back in Kalimati at 7:30. After breakfast and packing left at 8:20, back in Ranu Kumbolo at 12:10.

Entry fees are 210’000Rp/day for foreigners but 310’000 on weekends and bank holidays so avoid those dates. Locals pay 30’000Rp per day but they have to register online at least 3 days ahead of their visit and they have a quota of 600 hikers/day. Foreigners can register directly at Ranu Pani.

Bring a copy of passeport and a health certificate (Surat Keterangan Kesehatan), can be done at local healthcare community center (Puskesmas) in Tumpang or Ranu Pani. In my case, Puskesmas in Tumpang was closed so I had to go to Boli hospital 500m away. Paid 30’000Rp and got my paper in 20min.

To get there from Malang, go first to Tumpang. Easiest solution is to use online Ojek applications (Grab or Gojek), available both ways for less than 30’000Rp. Regular ojek asks 50. Angkot available but have to change in Arjosari.

From Tumpang to Ranu Pani, local hikers usually use jeep that costs 600’000 one way for 10 people. You can try to get a seat in one but they usually optimize costs so most are full already (they go hiking with a 10 people party). Should be easier to do it on the way back after meeting people on the trail. Ojek available in front of Pasar (market) Tumpang, rate is 150’000 one way. Same rate from Ranu Pani.

Cheapest solution would be to rent a motorbike from Malang but it seems most business don’t like it. Despite what they say, the road to Ranu Pani is only slightly damaged on small portions and any motorbike can pass. Those guys have a package dedicated for Semeru hikers, 250’000 for 4 days. Contact by WA +62 899-9609-267.

Tents and other gear can be rented in Ranu Pani. In Malang check out Da Rental, for 2 days 1 2ppl tent + 1 set sleeping bag/mattress less than 60’000Rp. Brings an ID for deposit or 1’000’000Rp. Lots of stock, you can rent for longer than you need, they refund you the difference if you come back earlier.

Total costs for 1 solo hiker (logistics, park fee + transport) 2 days start Malang : 958’000IDR.

Thank you for this article!

Is it possible to come to Ranu Pani on a scooter?

Greeting Alexander

Can anyone that has hired a guide, independantly from tour companies etc… please advise the daily cost ?…..and if anyone has used a porter ?…..how much ?…..I know lazy, but kids and myself with bad back…not bad to hike, but cannot harry a pack after time, especially with some weight in it…cold clothes, camera equip etc. Thanks……..oh and if any recent contact numbers/emails etc.

how is the weather for end Dec or mid Feb as I intend to hike but I’m a solo hiker….. if theres’s any group going, i’m happy to join in.

Look at the rainfall chart. Dec to March worst time of year in Java and trail quite likely to be closed….

just to review.. i and my team hike semeru on 15th Sept, thats cool and awesome mountain, we could saw amazing view, especialy my favorite camp site ranu kumbolo lake. thats so amazing and Super camp. but wheather is so cold at ranukumbolo.. Thanks to Gunung Bagging for itinerary and review. Big Thanks to Mr.Budi ([email protected]) as guide and experience trip, Mr.Budi is local guide, he lives at Ranupani village.. Thanks GUNUNG BAGGING and DAN..

best regards, Martens

Hi, we are 2 persons, plan to hike on 18 sept. We are looking for hiking buddies since we heard that we can only hike with min 3 persons. Let us know if we can team up? And do you know where can we rent a tent?

Julian +6281398661321

Mate, I hike it alone. Two people are fine.

Can anyone recommend local guides out of ranu pani for two or three day semeru trip this week?

hi jono, here’s the whatsapp number of recommended semeru local guide, he has been there more than 20 times, you can ask him, +6285233332317

Hey world, just to provide report from my trip to Mahemeru in September. I connected with local guide Yayan in Malang, he was very helpful in organising everything for my trip. Take note that you do need the medical certificate to enter the park and formal documents will be completed in Ranu Pani before entering. Beautiful food in Ranu Pani warungs before setting off for two days one night trekking with puncak sunrise. This itinerary is manageable if you are very fit but i feel two nights on the mountain is a better schedule.

If you wish to approach the climb via Malang, I recommend Yayan as a guide, he speaks great english if your a foreigner like myself. He is very helpful and knowledgable, knows the mountain very well and even some alternate routes that we followed on our return trip.

Yayan – +6285233332317

How is the start till to summit the common program or we can do 3 days hike totally start to the end

I am planning to do it in 3 days the first weekend of September. It is 2 of us at the moment, but it’s open for more if you are interested.

Hi Paulina, how did you get on with the climb. I am looking to climb tomorrow.

Hi Paulina We, 2 persons, plan to hike on 18 sept. We are looking for hiking buddies since we heard that we can only hike with min 3 persons. Let us know if we can team up? And do you know where can we rent a tent?

I hiked Semeru first time on 2014. That time I said to myself.. I would never come back again.. to many indescribable mystical journey that we passed and found along the way that really made me speechless until now. Semeru is a very unique mountain, I would never find in any other part of the world. In fact, a year later on 2015, friend of us went hike Semeru again, and he was reported missing for 3 days when he descent after summit push, he got lost @ Blank 75 for 3 days. Lucky he survived and found alive by Search & Rescue with scars, swelling, wound and bleeding all over his body. All of us in Jakarta who could not go and join the rescue, were crying like a hell. thanks God he’s alive. After I remember I visited him in hospital in Bogor, I was crying but we still talked joke “Hey buddy, let’s go back to Semeru again one day”

Just recently early this May 2017 I went back to Semeru and bring my clients to hike there. Still speechless to see every slope, corner, tree and so on.

But yeah.. It is beautiful… it is also unspoken.. I love Semeru

I intend to hike Semeru with a group of friends next september.I was looking on internet for Semeru/Bromo with transport from Surabaya. Price seems expensive (around 3,500,000 IDR). We are looking for a guide at reasonnable price. if Anyone have some information. thanks

marc, usually the 4days trip cost around 1 mio for group of local group(15-20) with pick up from Malang.. Not so sure if the price for foreigner is the same.. we plan to go there end of sept or early oct. If you have email, we’ll give you update if we have some space.

Mark, what are your dates?

Hi marc i also plan to go there this september. Please contact me via WA : 62 815511 2092 LINE: sheilaprawoto

hei marc got your guide already? i have some lists of recommended guide. whatsapp me on +6285855100021

Agustus mbk nia naik lagi

Okay this has been pending for a while but I’m here now and shall pay my due diligence with a trip report.

First of all, Semeru is a world class hike from every aspect, with a reward that is tough to beat once you’re at the top. Live eruptions every 10-15 minutes and a chance to witness mother nature at its powerful best.

Started off from Malang (Flights, buses and trains available from most major cities in Java) and got my health certificate at a local ‘puskesmas’ for Rp 5.000. Jumped on an angkot with the letter A and found myself in Tumpang around 30 minutes later. Angkots are aplenty from Arjosari bus terminal. Ojeks can take you to the nearest puskesmas for roughly Rp 20.000 (and that is being generous).

From tumpang, several options including ojek, pickup trucks and shared jeeps (best option IMO) which cost Rp 55.000 per person upto 12 people. A 2 hour drive later we founs ourselves at Ranu pane basecamp. You can stock up supplies at Tumpang itself next to the jeep rental. Everytjing from rice, noodles, vegetables and meat to fast foods, peanuts, snacks, fitbars and whatever else you may need are all there thanks to the local market and the adjacent indomaret and alfa marts.

At Ranu pane you will be briefed by the local caretakers on safety, etc. Do not come with the intention of scribbling on the rocks on the volcano, any knives and dangerous objects will be confiscated and returned upon your return from your hike. Each individual’s bag will be checked for supplies. Those not carrying enough supplies and proper attire will be denied entry. Basically, just prepare well. All rubbish will be accounted for, which means that the number of food packets taken with you should equal to the number of food packet plastics in your possession upon your return. Failure to bring back your rubbish will result in another hike back up the mountain to collect your rubbish. No fires allowed to be made hence it wouldn’t help to say that you burned them to make a fire (I had my doubts regarding how strict they were in their checking as they checked my rubbish bags but let a couple of others go without checking theirs). Nevertheless, better safe than sorry. They do not mess around with their safety instructions as there have been an overwhelming number of deaths on the volcano in recent times. Do listen to what they have to say.

Now, the hike itself was beautiful. Straightforward, no confusion, gentle inclines and declines to complemens. Three official pos’ until ranu kumbolo, followed by 2 more from ranu kumbolo to kalimati. Arcopodo pos does not exist anymore and all camps have to be made at kalimati prior to the midnight climb to the top.

The climb from Kalimati to the top of Semeru was not the most difficult one (The final climb in Rinjani was a bit more challenging), but this does not mean that one should take it lightly. Do prepare for the climb really well in terms of physical fitness as you will need it. Core strength and glutes/leg strength especially. Heaps of a mix of high intensity cardio and long, sustained cardio will help too. 15 people took off with me from Kalimati that night and 12 of us made it to the top. Three of us made it to the top in around 4.5 hours (bagged the peak at 4.15am) while the rest arrived well after sunrise (7am onwards). Due to our early arrival at the summit, the 3 of us could witness lava spurting out of the volcano before the sky turned bright. Truly incredible indeed.

Take some great pictures (keep the cameras ready for the loud booming noise before an eruption and roll the camera immediately to get the best videos/pictures of the live eruptions. Weather was perfect, clear skies and multiple peaks can be seen in the distance on all sides. Arjuno-welirang and argopuro in the west all the way up to majestic Raung in the east and Bromo in the north.

“Volcano scree run” you way back down before 9am as the wind tends to blow the toxic fumes from the volcano towards the hiker. Do not, i repeat, DO NOT get close to the active crater. More people have died than made it back alive. The volcano is highly unpredictable and can erupt in periods of 5 seconds up to 15 minutes. There is no pattern for the eruptions.

Pro Tip: in order to lighten the load on your backpack, carry food enough until the climb up and back down to kalimati. There is a 24×7 warung at ranu pane available which serves you the best food and a lot of coffee. Slightly more expensive than what you would get in the city but nothing outrageous. A good 50.000 should be enough food for 3 meals. Water is expensive though (Rp 10.000 for regular aqua and Rp 25.000 for the big bottle). Fresh fruit also available immediately after Oro-oro ombo. The watermelons are to DIE for!

The climb back down is gentle as well. Nothing dramatic. Alternative climbing route from ranu kumbolo to ranu pane available (used by porters and a fair climb up a hill before descending down to ranu pane). Do not attempt unless you are sure which hill to climb for the alternate route.

Warungs/tea-coffee/gift shops/accommodation all available at ranu pane. Go back to malang the same way you got there. Basecamp can arrange for transport.

For foreigners, Rp 55.000 is the price per person for 12 people on the jeep. Please be aware in case they try to con you like they tried to con me. Luckily, my Indonesian was a lot better than they thought abd managed to dodge an unnecessary payment.

Another tip, do carry sunblock for certain parts of the hike and please carry a large face towel as well to cover your mouth and nose as the track could be dusty if it hasn’t rained for a while and irritating to the eyes, nose and mouth.

Its gets as cold as zero to 4 degrees and night. All of that is absilutely true. Please carry appropriate clothing as you will definitely need them.

Other than that, enjoy one of the most rewarding climbs not just in Indonesian but in the whole world. Second best climb for me after Tambora.

Safe travels and good luck!

PS. entry for locals/KITAS/KITAP holders (Rp 17.500-25.000) Entry for foreigners (local price x 10). It sucks but unfortunately thats how Indonesia works. If you ask me, it is worth every penny of the foreigner’s entry ticket. Don’t miss this one if you’re contemplating doing this one.

Cheers, GG (Gaurav)

I just bagged Semeru between 5-7th December 2015. Kudos to those who can do it in just two days. Took me 4 houres the ascent from the tree line. Sunrise starts at 4.30 am in Jawa. Got on top half hour later but still in time. Did it on my own, no porters, no guide. In my opinion best to approach Ranu Pani from Malang. There is straight train to Malang from either Jakarta or Jogja. I did Malang-Ranu Pani on automatic scooter. Took me aprox 3 houres but I am not the most experienced driver and last 2 km or so of road is really broken. If you want to reach Ranu Pani by public transport take “angkot to the Arjosari bus terminal. Luckily for you angkots travelling to Arjosari pass most main roads in town frequently from early in the morning to late at night. Look for any angkot with the letter A on the windscreen — such as an ADL or GA. Once at Arjosari, catch an angkot to Tumpang, 24 kilometres away.” (Source info: travelfish.org) In Tumpang you either take an ojek (motor taxi), join others in renting a jeep or a truck (cheapest option). Also in Tumpang you can solve your health certificate at the local hospital. I payed 25 000 idr on it. Everything went smooth. Bought the materai (stamp) at the post office. If you want to do it with a guide I would recommend Nanang Sunarko ([email protected]; +62 812 3164 7733). Met Nanang at the Ranu Kumbolo basecamp. Perfect English and one of the most interesting Indonesian persons I met so far. Had the chance also to taste his cooking. Enak sekali! Just search on youtube “hidden Indonesia Semeru” to get an idea about him. Also if you want you can reach the Sea of Sand of Bromo by foot or motor (road still in repairing at this moment though) unless Bromo is nauthy and puffing. The road in the savanna looking like landscape starts some kilometers before Ranu Pani.

Once again we have done the climb to Mt.Semeru precisely on September 2015 and thank you very much to Parningotan Sinambela as Ranger Officer in Ranu Pani, Lumajang who has helped and arranged our trip in Mt.Semeru.

Regards, ONY TJAHJONO Doha, State of Qatar

We climbed this peak in two days via Ranu Pani. We contacted a guide that I had climbed with frequently and he suggested a 3 day itinerary which upon review was too much time.

You can do Ranu Pani-Kalimati in just around 5.5 hours, assuming that you are in reasonable shape and have some experience with mountains in Indonesia. There isn’t much elevation gain at all between the start point, with the major elevation drop happening when you descend maybe 75 meters to the Ranu Kumbolo lake and then ascend again on the way to Kalimati.

You could even push further past Kalimati and camp right below the rocky scree area of Semeru. That might save you 45 minutes in the morning of your summit attack.

Our agenda went as such: DAY 1 8.30 begin 12pm arrive Ranu Kumbolo 12-12.30pm Break for lunch 12.30 – 230pm arrive Kalimati chill out, dinner, early to bed

DAY 2 2.30am depart from Kalimati 6am arrive Summit (again, you can cut some time by camping a bit further up in the forest area closer to the scree) 6.45am depart Summit 730am down to Kalimati 9am depart Kalimati 2pm arrive back in Ranu Pani

I should add the caveat that the above is based on your being reasonably used to Indonesian gunung2. We brought most of our own gear on our backs and only had porters bring our tents and to show the way. As expected you should be prepared for variable levels of experience (and fitness) amongst your guides and porters. We definitely outpaced them back and forth between Kalimati, and none of them made the summit in time whereas all of our party did. Not their day I suppose.

One thing that was helpful from the guides is that they brought helmets, which provided a nice sense of security while ascending the rocky scree. It’s not essential, but there is the potential for something bad to happen from the loose rocks caused by climbers ahead of you on the trail.

Interestingly, your post is the only one that mentioned helmets. I understand that it was required at some point in the past. Do you know if they are still needed? May I have the contact of your guide for me to check? I am heading to Semeru this June 16-17.

I’m arriving Surabaya at 10am on a Wednesday morning. What is the fastest way to Ranu Pani from Surabaya airport? via Malang or Cemoro Lawang? Thanks！

I’ve heard from the news the summit is closed for the moment. does any one know when it’ll open again?

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2015/08/14/mt-semeru-s-climbing-trail-reopened.html

Today I and colleagues from Malaysia to Ranu Pane and will climb Semeru morning.

Best Regards #dukun_gunung71

Hi all, Going to hike Semeru alone within two days in mid-August. I’m going to travel from Ceromo Lawang to Ranupane.

After a morning in Ceromo Lawang, my plan is commence hike about 12pm and within 6 hours reach Kalimati or Arcopodo. Nap then hit the summit and hike all the way back to Ranupane the next day. Does anyone know if I can rent a tent, sleeping bag and mat at Ranupane? How much roughly should i be expected to pay?

Hi Sean, I just came back from Semeru in June 2015 with a group of friends. We rented our gear in Cemoro Lawang from a tour organizer – to rent a tent and sleeping bag would technically cost you less than 200k IDR if you manage to find someone who’d rent it to you ‘a la carte’. I struggled to get things separately so eventually settled for a deal of 1.1 mil IDR per person which included airport transfer from/to Surabaya, Jeep transport to/from Cemoro Lawang and to Ranu Pane, 2x porters and climbing permits. Our rental didn’t include sleeping mat – just tent and sleeping bag.

I’m interested to know if someone comes up with any contact that allows you to rent these items there.

Hope this helps.

Cheers, Jade

A side note: Nobody asked to see the climbing permits or the medical certificates, but good to have ‘just in case’ anything happens. The insurance might refuse to pay if you didn’t take the “necessary precaution”. It’s really up to you.

Thanks Jade. I’m stopping at Ceromo Lawang so will try there otherwise heard I can pick these up at Ranu Pane.

Hey! Just wondering which tour/guide you went with and was it good and trustworthy?

Accomplished my goal of climbing Semeru over a long weekend. (August 8/9 2015)

Landed in Surabaya and got the Damri bus to bus terminal where I boarded a local bus to Probolinggo. Annoyingly waited an hour for a minivan which grouped together about 8 foreign tourists for trip to Ceromo Lawang. Was cheap but going private would be way less hassle.

Had very basic accomodation at Yog Bromo and woke at 4am to see the sunrise from Penenjakin. It’s an easy walk walk to a good vantage point had my head lamp but could have gone without. Walked back for back to village for one of the best Omelettes I’ve ever eaten – so fresh. i then got an Ojek at about 9am to Ranu pane via the Bromo caldera. Stopped at crater and other points of interest.

At Ranu pane, registered and hired a tent and sleeping bag (100,000 rupiah for both for two days). Mats seemed so thin I didn’t bother for the extra weight. Started hike at about 11.30am to 12pm and reached Kalimati at about 5.30/6pm. I stopped at the Ranu Kumbolo for a 30 min nap and had some rest stops as wasn’t used to carrying such a load a long way. It’s a long walk, not too steep but gradually inclines. There were loads of locals all of whom wanted to say hello and where I was from etc. They thought it strange I was going alone.

I actually wanted to camp at Arcopodo but decided it wasn’t worth carrying the weight up there and wanted a light pack for the summit attempt from Kalimati. So dropped my tent there and was thankful some locals help me pitch my tent.

After a cold sleep I woke about 2.30am which was later than I wanted. I left my head lamp in my bag at Ranupane and phone was low on battery which i wanted to save for pics so walked up from Kalimati in the dark. I took a wrong turn from the actual path but didn’t know it until descending. I ended up fighting much more volcanic scree than I needed to but my path may have had more moon light than actual track as i was hiking in the dark. Once above tree line saw loads of lights from Indonesian hikers. Eventually found the path and it was hard graft but I passed load of locals so they were finding harder. Slow and steady I made my way to the peak a bit after 6am and a bit after sunrise…but I was still chuffed! It was super windy and freezing. Stayed for 20 mins and headed down. Was actually hoping for more volcanic activity but saw one puff of smoke on the way up. I was going to walk to the crater – looked easy, but it was so windy and dust was blowing in my face. Decided to just enjoy the peak. I pretty much ran/slid down the scree to Kalimati. Rested and then it’s a long long walk out.

I was so tired and wanted a decent sleep so I got an Ojek from Ranupane to Malang (i think I got ripped off on the price but didn’t care) and stayed in a nice hotel for the night.

I climbed Semeru two weeks ago. It is one of the best climbes you can get on Java. My hiking time: from Ranu pane to Ranu Kumbolo 2:45 h (with only two very short breaks), from Ranu Kumbolo to Kalimati 2 hours (with two longer breaks), from Kalimati to Arcopodo 35 minutes. I camped in Arcopodo, which is higher than the 2912 m that are mentioned in the text! I stayed on the place where the old now corroded sign can be found and it is around 2960m. From there to the summit you need around 2:30 h at a slow, but steady speed. The water source at Kalimati was available. The way back to Ranu Pane is long and a bit borring after having hiked the same way the day before. By the way, I was not asked for a medical certificate. It is a great hike.If you like mountains and you are in Indonesia, it is nearly a must to go to Semeru. A guide is absolutely unnecessary. The trail is very good and the indications are much better than in the rest of Indonesia. Accomodations in Ranu Pane are quite basic, but I found a reasonable one.

Hi Matthias. I plan to hike Semeru this October. Would you be willing to share your recommendation on affordable guide. Many online companies (including the local ones) charge quite expensively (IDR 3-4 million per pax). Thank You

GPS track of western approach from Ranu Pani to Ranu Kumbolo lake and new trail from Kalimati to summit: http://gaziga.com/semeru/semeru.kml

Track to water source from Kalimati basecamp: http://gaziga.com/semeru/kalimati-water.kml

Photos and report in my blog (in russian): http://gaziga.com/semeru/

Feel free to comment and ask any questions

Mt.Semeru is a beautiful mountain in East-java, Indonesia that it has many beautiful views such as Ranu Kumbolo lake, Oro Oro Ombo the savannah area so we don’t get bored on many times climbed it. And thank you so much to Mr. Parningotan Sinambela who always helps us in the ascent of Mt. Semeru.

wew, semeru is the highest mountain on the island of Java

Tari from Ranupani can be reached at 0821 418 593 74. Two expat friends hiked G Semeru with him, he charged the same as he charged locals.

Can anyone recommend a good guide/porter for Mt Semeru that will charge real locals price. We live in Bali, 2 people Thanks, Micheal

A motorbike ride to Ranu Pani should be fine. However, climbing alone is not advised. We have the account of the American who was lost on the mountain for 48 hours. http://budihermanto.blogdetik.com/2010/09/12/an-american-mountaineer-was-found-safe-on-semeru/ … Semeru is a mysterious mountain, before I climbed it, I had some incredibly powerful and lucid dreams. Hiring a guide is advised. Look up Jarodi Hestu on the equatorindonesia.com website, he climbed it many times and knows the locals and won’t overcharge you. Zac

Thank you to everyone for sharing their experiences! This is stuff you can’t find in a guidebook!

I’m doing a solo motorbike trip around Java in December and would like to climb Mt Semeru while I’m in the area.

I was wondering if the road conditions make possible to ride a motorbike from Malang to Ranu Pani, solo? I’m an experienced rider. I was also wondering if it’s possible to hire camping gear, including an overnight backpack, from Ranu Panu? As I’ll be riding a motorbike for 12 days, I’m not bringing much luggage on this trip.

I intend to do the climb in 2days/1night. Also, would you advise on getting a guide from Ranu Pani, or should do it alone. I am also a relatively experienced hiker.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Alan, check the website of Rani tours in Malang http://rani-adventure.com/ . They are excellent and may assist you with anything you need, at a fair price. Wolfgang

Everything you need is already available in Ranu Pane. The road access from the gates of Cemoro Lawang closed Total as Making New Roads until Dec 15,2015

Best Regards Dukun gunung ****

I just climbed to Mahameru in August 2013. This has become a hugely popular destination now, as a movie called “5 cm” came out in December 2012, about 5 Indonesian friends who climb Mahameru. I was there in August 17th, 2013, and there were at least 500 people climbing to the peak. To the point of where there was a queue (a line) to get to the top. So if you don’t want a touristy experience, be aware of when you are going. Avoid any time that Indonesians have a long weekend or a national holiday. Mahameru will likely be very crowded. However, other times of the year it is not that crowed at all. My Indonesian friend said that he’s been there when there were only 6 other tents. The weekend I went, there were hundreds.

It took me 5 hours from the treeline to the peak. I’m a pretty fit 24 year old and I kept a steady pace. I was only slowed down maybe an hour maximum by waiting in line. So prepare for a long-haul hike to the top.

It’s freezing, too. Wear layers. Bring water and snacks. Wear gloves to grab onto rocks/sand to help pull you up. Wear warm socks or something that cover the tops of your shoes and pants so that rocks won’t slide into your pants on the way down. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email me. I’m a Peace Corps volunteer living in East Java until June 2014, so I like to think I’m pretty well-informed about what is going on here!

Normally people ride a city car from Surabaya to Tumpang then a jeep or truck from Tumpang to Ranupani. Riding a jeep from Surabaya takes more time and is less comfortable. Pak Laman in Tumpang can arrange both options, he is at 0813 349 504 54. Otherwise Bonie in Malang (0816 429 6849) can also arrange it. In Surabaya you can rent a good car from Bing (0812 310 7072). You can then continue to Ranupani on pak Laman’s jeep or truck. All of them are trustworthy and reliable. Surabaya to Tumpang is 2 hours and Tumpang to Ranupani 1.5 hours. Tumpang is a good place to buy your logistics.

I will be flying into Surabaya. My group will have at least 3 persons so we are thinking of hiring a jeep. Anyone know of good jeep drivers that I can hire to drive from Surabaya to Ranupani? How long is the duration?

Tari (living in Ranupani) is a good guide but does not really understand english, and he is a relative of the Ranupani office head. His number is 0828 393 7514. Alternatively, an english speaking guide from Malang is Bonny 0816 429 6849. He knows every mountain in Java and other islands.

Regarding the health certificate…would they accept one from another country (i.e. the US)?

when i climbed semeru i got a health cert from a doctor in singapore and that was ok.shouldnt be a problem.

HI. Whcich guide did you take for the climb (any contact details). I plan to climb Semeru in April 2013 in 4 days? cheers Greg

Ranupani to Ranukumbala (the lake), be really careful when hiking in the night as the path near the ruined shelter (Shelter 4?) confuses you. Easily could lead you to the lake shore. Find the ruined shelter and keep right.

At Kalimati, get water at the Sumbermani water spring some hundred meters or 10 minutes to the west. The path is along a sandy dry trench with a spooky air. There are 2 springs, 1 small and the other (a little further) pours plenty of water down a wet green cliff.

Kalimati is nice to camp in because of the shelter but you better camp at Arcapada and save 1 hour of steep ascent.

Sometimes you come across a deer hunter with his dogs smeared with deer blood. They hunt at the hills and savanna beyond Ranukumbala.

Notes from an ascent in August 2012.

First, some bureaucracy. I paid Rp5,000 for a health certificate from a puskesmas (government health clinic) about 5 minutes walk from the bus terminal in Tumpang. In Ranu Pani I presented a photocopy of this certificate plus a passport photocopy at the park office and paid Rp74,500 for bits of paper, comprising entry ticket, climbing permit, insurance and international camera (that’s foreign owner, not foreign camera!). (Funnily enough, the Rp50,000 camera ticket was not in my stapled envelope of documents until I checked and insisted on receiving the bit of paper I had paid for.) I also bought a Rp6,000 tax stamp for a signed disclaimer, saying I accepted all responsibility for any risks from climbing beyond Kalimati. Although the official notices seem to discourage going up to the summit, guides and porters readily understand that many people want to go all the way to the top. There were about a dozen would-be summiteers on the day I went up, so the summit will probably not be off-limits, as long as the volcano remains relatively quiet.

It seems very straightforward to find guides and porters on arrival in Ranu Pani. My guide Asmadi was introduced to me by the jeep driver and proved thoroughly professional.

Unless you especially enjoy cold nights in tents, a two day one night trek is quite sufficient. We took only seven hours, with leisurely stops, for the first day from Ranu Pani to Arcopodo, and much of the trail is flat, so nobody will go significantly slower.

In contrast, Dan’s “three hours” for the second day ascent of the volcanic cone from Arcopodo to the summit is only for the strong. I took four hours, clambering many stretches on all fours, digging fingers into the gravel (poles could have helped!). Some people were still struggling up the lower part of the cone, and in danger of flouting the “no summit after 10 a.m. rule”, when I was coming down at 7 a.m. Start out at a time that suits your fitness level; it is easy to slow down, but very hard to speed up!

Pak Tumari’s homestay in Ranu Pani is a fine place to stay before or after the hike, with simple, satisfying meals.

Could you help me information detail of Mahameru wether still open this year for trekking, could you recommend good qualification local guide, name and mobile number please,

My self doing trekking for Bali area and interessted to try Mahameru.

Thank you for your kind help.

Best Regards,

Hi Mudi Please look on our guides page (under ‘resources’) and search for ‘S’ for Semeru. There you will find 2 or 3 guides and HP numbers…

i’ve climbed semeru on 2-7 september ago spent 3 night there. It was a long trek (17 km from ranu pane to mahameru) with dusty and sun brightly shine over us. For me that rarely doing excercise, it was a hard trekking. But we could saw amazing view, especialy my favorite camp site ranu kumbolo lake. The hardest part when climbed to mahameru. it’s take more than 4 hours to reach the summit, but less than 1 hours back to arcopodo. the track is consist of volcanic sand that steep uphill path. Overall it’s was an amazing & unforgetable journey there.

Some extra detailed info courtesy of Teddy and Juri…

The description of the trail itself is quite accurate, so here – only some details on the approaching part. Tumpang, the obvious starting point, is connected by angkot from Malang’s bus station Arjosari (18km – 6000 Rp). Ojeks from Tumpang to Ranu Pani cost 70 000 Rp, according to all indonesian hikers. Being with a group creates the option of hiring a jeep for 420-450 000 Rp (in Tumpang), which was shared by 14 persons on the way down in our case. The hard way to do it is to wait for an angkot to fill up (at Tumpang terminal) for the final 12 km to Gubugklakah (5000 Rp), from where there are still 18 km to go (on a very bumpy road, managable only by a robust vehicle with high-clearance). Saturdays and Sundays are perfect for getting a lift from the hordes of locals, on their way to Bromo and there are about 5 km from Bromo junction to Ranu Pani visitor’s centre trailhead. Beware of overcharging at the office – we were cited 30 000 Rp insted of the correct 24 500 Rp per (foreign) person. The area above Arcopodo was officialy closed (cited on 12.06.2011 at the reception), as considered by the crater activity. There were reports of a loud explosion, heard at Ranu Kumbolu previous night, but none of the local hikers seemed to care. Some small explosions of sulphur and ashes started at summit time (05:00) and continued until 08:00 – clearly visible from Kalimati.

## The area above Arcopodo was officialy closed. ##

But are there any trekker that still try to reach the summit ?

I will travel there in August, Mt.Semeru’s summit is my reason to travel there.

So I want to know despite the warning, Some Hikers still go to summit, or nobody?

We climbed to the summit only two weeks ago – there were lots of people hiking. There was some concern over the last month that Semeru’s activity could indicate a larger eruption might happen, but Semeru and nearby Bromo are both open. There were numerous minor eruptions from Semeru while we were in the area and ash falls the evening we climbed. When at the summit, do not under any circumstances go near the active crater. It’s a magnificent mountain area – read my blog post at http://www.deangeomatics.com/blog

Interesting comment from Wolfgang….

Hi Dan, reviewing new and older fotos of Semeru I just wanted to bring to your attention the fact that now – in contrast to earlier years – the trail to the peak of Semeru is very visible from the valley. That is obviously a consequence of the lack of emission of solid particles (dust, sand,stones) in recent months, so that the trail is not blanketed several times a day, as in all the years before.

Regarding the health certificate, as far as i know, it’s derived from a good phylosophy of “self respect and responsible trekking” principal. Regardless the issue of BMI, i personally would say that this certificate is more to be a proof that you are able to climb the mountain, and not pushing yourself to climb the summit, based on general health standard (including blood pressure). This certificate can either be optained from a doctor or health center in your neighborhood or in Tumpang. However, if you haven’t had yet until your d-day, you can get it easily in Tumpang, for 10.000 rupiah in cost. It’s easy, and no need to worry 🙂

two days ago I went to Semeru ..I met Mr. Wolfgang Piecha and we got the sweaty Mahameru together. Hello Mr. Wolfg.. I wait the amazing picture of Mahameru…

Hi Eko, of course I have some great pics of you on top of Mahameru! Send me your mail address to “[email protected]” Wolfgang

okay.. what next trip?

Update from a friend regarding what you now need in order to climb Semeru…a rather annoying administrative addition…

“as more trekkers died from heartattacks (three in recent 18 months) than from eruptions, there was introduced a new government requirement for a health certificate for everybody, which must include a) blood pressure and b) data for body-mass-index. I got it quickly and cheap in Tumpang. It has to be presented together with the passport copy.”

Can you give me some more info on this health certificate? Will they refuse the permit if the BMI is too high? Bring a certificate from a doctor from home or get one where in Tumpang? Thanks for your help.

I talked to many people, including students, and to tour organizers on Semreu and in Tumpang. The health certificate is a must. I don’t think they are too strict on excluding people, as I have seen some people that clearly were overweight. More important than BMI seems to identify people with blood pressure problems. I got my certificate in Tumpang, within five minutes. My tour organizer did not charge me extra.

Semeru.. lifetime memories..!! I’ve climbed it 16 years ago when I was a teenager. 3D/2N climbing. I always missing every moment there.. Semeru, hope someday I can get back to your lovely places.

The first mountain i climbed .. ever!!! It was a very amazing experience. There’s no doubt, when you do the hiking, you won’t get tired coz the views are Great! I certainly would love to get back climbing this amazing mountain!

I got many memories there, including camping in a -5 Degrees Celcius at Ranu Kumbolo! Superb! hehehe

Semeru, you will always be in my heart!

I just made the summit to this mountain a few weeks ago.By now semeru is well known all over the world as a world class destination for adventure seekers. It is truley an awe inspiring experience seeing Semeru from different vantage points.Ranu Pani,Kumbolo lake as well as Kali Mati and Arcopogo just below the treeline where the ash meets. For a veteran climber it should take no less than 2 days to get to the summit and one day to get back. If you are abegginner consider the 3 nights 4 days trek as it gives you a wonderful oppurtunity experience the highlands of east Java as well as the jungle.The mountain demands respect, and can stir up some unpredictable conditions.Bring lots of warm clothes. I heard it was the coldest place on Java. The drive there is one of the scariest parts so take your time. Enjoy.It is an incredible trek.

Excuse me?The drive wot do u meang is one of the scariest part?Thanks

Semeru Trekking, Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater Tour 6 Days

by Yahya Tour Guide · Published June 23, 2015 · Updated November 28, 2020

Semeru Trekking, Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater Tour 6 Days 5 night is special volcano hiking package in East Java Island Indonesia that consist of the Sunrise photography from different peak. the nearest way to start Mount Semeru trekking, Bromo, Ijen Crater tour is from Surabaya International Airport or Malang City.

Detail itinerary Semeru trekking, Mt Bromo, Ijen Volcano tour 6 days 5 nights

DAY 01 : SURABAYA / MALANG / BANYUWANGI / – HOMESTAY AT RANU PANE

Our team pick you up at Surabaya or Malang, then drive to the homestay around Mt Semeru for 5 hours.
After You reach your homestay, Check in and stying all nights.

DAY 02 : SEMERU VOLCANO TREKKING – CAMPING ON KALIMATI

After have breakfast, take shower, and break. Check Out, then submit your medical check, ID card and passport copy to Mount Semeru post office, then trekking to the camping loction on Kalimati Camp for 6-7 hours Included lunch time on Arcapada Village
After get the Kalimati Camp, short break while enjoy the surrounding views, and staying overnight by camping.

DAY 03: SEMERU SUMMIT TREKKING (3676 M) – KUMBOLO LAKE CAMPING

Wake up at midnight (00.00 AM) then start hiking to Semeru volcano summit through steep route about an hour to Arcapada. Most people reach the Semeru volcano summit about 4 hours, but it depends on your body strong to keep going. the best time for Semeru trek is at midnight due to the gass produces by continuing smokes of Semeru volcano crater always belches every 20 minutes. You will reach the summit at 05.00 AM
Enjoy Mount Semeru sunrise, and all views. You will stand on the highest volcano in East Java Island. You have to see the small-scale of Semeru eruption every 15 minutes full of smokes and stones. enjoy your achievement until really satisfied.
Finish Enjoy Mount Semeru trekking package, back to Kalimati (camp) to have breakfast and break enoughly.
Continue trekking to the Kumbolo Lake (Ranu Kumbolo), the second place for camping for 3 – 4 hours.
During the camping on Kumbolo , you can indulge your time for magnificant views that surrounded the high mountain.

DAY 04 : KUMBOLO LAKE SUNRISE – RANU PANE VILLAGE – HOTEL IN MOUNT BROMO

Wake you up to have breakfast and enjoy the Kumbolo lake sunrise from your camp while go around this like. Enjoy your time satisfiedly until finish
Comeback to Ranu Pane (parking lot) using different route via Ayek-ayek Semeru for 3 – 4 hours. We will arrived in Ranu Pane at around 03.00 – 04.00 PM including lunch time.
Continue your trip to your hotel in Mount Bromo through Savannah Hill and Whispering Sand for 2 hours drive using 4 WD Jeep.

DAY 05 : MT BROMO SUNRISE TOUR – HOTEL IN IJEN VOLCANO AREA

Mount Bromo tour package will begin at 02.30 AM using 4 WD Jeep toward Mt Bromo peak for 30 minutes
Reach the Jeep parking on Pananjakan Peak, Do trekking toward Bromo view point for 10 minutes and wating for Sunrise at 05.20 AM
Enjoy Mount Bromo Sunrise views, and other sceneries until finish at 06.20 AM. Afterward, back to your jeep then continue to the Crater by stop at Sea of Sand (second Jeep Parking), and continue trekking to Bromo volcano crater for 30 minutes, You can also use Horse ride for 15 minutes
Finish enjoy Mt Bromo crater, comeback to the jeep then continue to your hotel around Bromo to have breakfast, take shower and relax enoughly.
Check out from hotel around Mt Bromo as you want and continue the trip to hotel around Ijen volcano for 6 hours tavelling included the stop for lunch at restaurant as your asking. Arrive to your hotel, stay all night.

DAY 6 : IJEN CRATER TOUR – SURABAYA AIRPORT / BANYUWANGI / BALI

02.30 AM, Wake You up for preparing, take shower and have breakfast (You can also bring your breakfast in box), Then visit Paltuding (Ijen Crater Parking lot) for 2 hours
Arrive on Parking are, Start hike to Ijen volcano rim for 2 hours accompanied by local tour guide for 2 hours.
After You get Ijen Crater peak, enjoy your time to see green acid lake, massive crater rim and local miners loading sulfur from bottom of Ijen crater.
Finish doing the Ijen Crater tour package , comeback to the car / van then continue to your hotel to have lunch, take shower and break.
At 12.00 PM, Check out, then drive to Surabaya Airport and finish Semeru volcano, Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater Tour 6 Days .

This tour package has included :

Local driver with English speaking
Private AC (air conditioned) Transportation
Transportation fuel and parking fee
Entrance fee for Semeru hiking, Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater tour
Mineral drinks along 6 days 5 nights trip
1 Night homestay including breakfast at Ranu Pane area
2 nights camping on Kalimati and Kumbolo Lake
2 Nights accommodation included breakfast at Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater
Medical Check for Semeru volcano hike
Camping facility (tents, matras, sleeping bag, meals, porter team, snacks, mineral water for coffee or tea)
Local tour guide to serve trekking to Ijen Crater peak
4 WD Jeep for Mount Bromo tour (Sunrise and Crater)
Travel responsibility (if your goods sometimes left in these area and transportation problem)
Blue Flame Ijen Crater
Madakaripura Waterfall
Personal Insurance
Savannah, Whispering Sand Mount Bromo
Horse ride in Mount Bromo

East Java Island tour package from Surabaya, Malang, Banyuwangi, Bali and Yogyakarta :

Mount Bromo Midnight Tour
Mount Bromo trekking package
Mount Bromo tour by camping
Bromo midnight, Ijen Crater tour
Semeru trekking package 3 days 2 nights
Semeru trekking package 4 days 3 nights
Semeru Climbing Package 2 Days 1 night
3 days 2 nights Mount Bromo Milky Way
Mount Bromo Ijen Crater tour package 3 days
Mount Bromo Milky Way, Ijen Crater tour
Mount Bromo Camping, Ijen Crater tour
Semeru Trekking, Mt Bromo, Waterfall tour 5 days

INFORMATION :

Before You start Semeru trekking, Bromo, Ijen Crater tour . Hope You prepare mountain clothes such as Jacket, Gloves, Hat, Trekking Shoes and Other personal equipment. For detail information about Mount Semeru trekking package price, and East Java Island Tour Package , Ijen Crater tour package, accommodation, other Semeru trekking package facility, you can visit Our booking form.

Tags: blue fire kawah ijen Ijen Crater Trekking Tour Package Milky Way on Mount Semeru Mount Bromo Tour Package mount semeru summit trekking mount semeru trekking tour package price Trekking Tour Package volcano trekking

Yahya Tour Guide

Bromo East Java Travel is My travel blog who had build according my experience since I was the local tour guide in East Java Island, Indonesia. Travelling with foreigner's clients was my lovely experience. Based on my travelling experience, Here I provide all tourism packages including volcano hiking packages, relax trip, custom trip itineraries, recommendation place to visit, all photography types, city tour, and ideas to travel satisfiedly.

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Mount Semeru hiking for beginner visitor

April 3, 2018

by Yahya Tour Guide

by Yahya Tour Guide · Published April 3, 2018 · Last modified September 14, 2022

Mount Semeru Trekking Tour Package 3 Days

June 2, 2015

by Yahya Tour Guide · Published June 2, 2015 · Last modified May 22, 2022

Mount Semeru Summit trekking, Mt Bromo tour 4 days

June 19, 2015

by Yahya Tour Guide · Published June 19, 2015 · Last modified April 3, 2021

Best time for Camping at Mount Bromo
Mt Bromo Camping, Blue Flame Ijen Tour 3 Days
Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour, Kumbolo Lake Camping 3 Days
Camping on Kumbolo Lake under Mount Semeru
Semeru hiking, Mount Bromo Sunrise tour, B29 Camping
4 Recommendation places for Mount Bromo Camping
Ijen Crater, Mount Bromo, Kumbolo Lake Camping 4 Days

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Mount Bromo Prewedding Photography
Milky Way in Mount Bromo East Java
Mount Bromo Milky Way Photography Tour 3 Days
Milky Way Photography by Camping on Mount Bromo
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Ijen Crater, Mt Bromo Milky Way Tour, Sunrise tour 3 Days

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Semeru volcano.

Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. Semeru, a favourite mountain trekking destination, has been in almost continuous eruption since 1967. It is known for its regular ash explosions that typically occur at intervals of 10-30 minutes.

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Semeru volcano photos.

Erupting Semeru volcano at night (March 2004) - a small explosion expels incandescent bombs that roll down its southern flank. (Photo: Tom Pfeiffer)

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Semeru volcano (Eastern Java) - Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 24 April-30 April 2024 (Continuing Activity)

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Erupting Semeru volcano seen at sunrise.

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Climbing Mount Semeru: It’s Never Been Easy

Mount Semeru is a volcano located in East Java, Indonesia with the elevation of 3,676m. It’s the highest volcano in Java Island and the third highest in Indonesia after Mount Kerinci and Mount Rinjani. Climbing Mount Semeru is like a dream for every hikers in Indonesia.

Known for its challenging trek, especially before the summit, however, once you reach the summit, all the hard work would be pay off. This is my second attempt in climbing Mount Semeru. I didn’t get to the summit at my first climb and here I was determined to try it again.

Getting to Mount Semeru

The closest city before going to the basecamp is Malang. You can either fly or take the train from other cities in Indonesia. Next, you need to take taxi (Rp 150,000) to Pasar Tumpang, followed by jeep (Rp 600,000) to the basecamp, Ranu Pani.

Entrance Fee

Mount Semeru is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park . Therefore, you need to pay entrance fee to Climb Mount Semeru. The price for local is Rp 29,000 (weekedays) and Rp 34,000 (weekends), for foreigner is Rp 220,000 (weekdays) and Rp 329,000 (weekends)

Mount Semeru Climbing Routes

Ranu Pani – Landengan Dowo : 3 km / 1.5h
Landengan Dowo – Watu Rejeng : 3 km / 1.5h
Watu Rejeng – Ranu Kumbolo : 4.5 km / 2h
Ranu Kumbolo – Oro Oro Ombo : 1 km / 30min
Oro-Oro Ombo – Cemoro Kandang : 1.5 km / 30min
Cemoro Kandang – Jambangan : 3 km / 30min
Jambangan – Kalimati : 2 km / 30min
Kalimati – Arcopodo : 1.2 km / 2.5h
Arcopodo – Summit : 1.5km / 4h

Ideally it takes 3 days to climb Mount Semeru. To camp, you can choose either Ranu Kumbolo or Kalimati. As you can see the last two points there, the distance is not so far. But it takes so long because the trek is just to steep and slippery from the stone. Make sure to prepare well.

My experience climbing Mount Semeru

I was looking for my lecturer to as for permission that I wouldn’t be able to join his class. There was important final presentation at that day. Everything’s mixed up. My feeling of scared leaving this presentation, on the other hand I couldn’t wait to climb land of God, Mount Semeru.

Finally I encouraged myself to tell my lecturer. His answer was just simple, ” You wouldn’t get higher than C if you skipped next week presentation. I have ensured myself, my heart, I chose Mount Semeru, coming back to accomplish my unfinished mission, to stand on the highest land in Java.

Rough beginning

I was late ! Started from my dormitory at 11.30 then directly headed to bus station. I waited for the bus but what the hell it didn’t show up. Finally 12 p.m. it started going from the station, but you know, bus in Indonesia, they still trying to find passengers.

1 p.m.still at Cibitung. My train took off at 2.05 p.m. I got panic ! I saw a taxi before the bus entering the highway. I asked the driver to drive in high speed. But again, Jakarta was fakin traffic, 1.50 p.m. arrived at Cawang and took ojek.

My friend kept calling me and I just said “Can you ask the train officer to wait and don’t leave until I come?” stupid me and horray, I reached Senen Station and the train had left 10 minutes ago.

Oh mann, I tried to find another ticket but it’s all sold out. I started to think why I chose long weekend. Luckily, I met some guys who were late and also left by the train, same fate as me. We went to Rawamangun Bus Station, and got Pahala Kencana Bus at 5.30 p.m..huff..still need efforts to go for Semeru.

Taking a bus was comfortable but wasting both time and money. Salute to one of my friend who’s willing to spend his money using a plane! I gave a big applause to him. I teased him, “Man, you can go to Mount Rinjani with this amount of money you spent, haha.”

I arrived in Malang at 4 p.m. I waited my friends who arrived earlier to fetch me. Quick flashback, I actually registered me and my friends to a mass-climbing event by Avtech, with Rp 200,000, everything’s included.

Jeep from Tumpang-Ranu Pane (return), breakfast, T-shirt, rain cover, certificate. From the beginning, I targeted only the cheap facilities we got. The rest, I don’t really care. In fact, the committee couldn’t manage everything until complaints and conflicts arise, check it out after this!

We’re joining an event

I was a bit upset when the committee opened the re-registration at Tumpang earlier than the date decided and posted before. It should be opened on 15 Dec 7 a.m. but they already opened the registration on 14 Dec on evening. Their reason was many participants had come so they let some participants went first so on the next day it’s less crowded.

It was unfair where the rules are the participants were grouped in several groups, some groups would go first, and the rest would have limitation in time to climb. Finally, we re-registered but we didn’t follow them. We were supposed to wait for other groups to depart but we got into the truck to depart faster.

Until Ranu Pane, we climbed by ourselves. Can you imagine the total participants of this mass climbing was 1697 people??? It’s totally INSANE !!!! There should be limitation. It impacted to other hikers who were not avtech participants.

TNBTS made an announcement which prohibited the climbers to climb Semeru because of overload capacity. Protest from many parties couldn’t be avoided. But then the announcement was pulled back. I believe there are a lot of sneers towards Avtech. I hope Avtech learned from what had happened.

Here’s my team (me myslef, Ko Anton, Vivi, and Iky (the one using plane). We acted poker face at that time haha. If some people asked about us, we would say that we were non-avtech.

The climb begins

I don’t know why but climbing Mount Semeru is pretty boring for me. The long sloping track makes me feel sleepy and bored. The unusual thing, that seldom happened when I did hiking was, our bags were damn heavy ! I

t’s all Ko Anton’s fault, buying too much food ! OMG ! We turned into piggies. It’s raining but not very big, I used my lovely umbrella along our way. Everything was executed well, based on our plan. But Ko Anton’s injured plus heavy bags plus queuing made the schedule plus one hour.

First night camping at Ranu Kumbolo, the one I missed on the last hiking in Semeru and I really regret it. Avtech participants built their camp on the first side when we got down to the lake, but we chose to camp on the other side, facing the hills. It was a fun night ! Cooked so many food, playing card, loser had to massage the winner. Stupid Ko Anton farting in the tent and it’s sooo smelly.

Second day of the hike

We continued our journey to Tanjakan Cinta and down to Oro Oro Ombo. Ko Anton’s condition getting worse plus the steep track which drained our stamina. But finally after 4 hours trekking we arrived at Kalimati. We found a lil bit difficulties to build our tent. I once asked a person and this guy was completely mad at avtech I think.

There was such a police line written avtech, so I assumed this land was exclusive for Avtech. I asked this guy, “Where can we build our tent, any space?” This guy answered, ” You can build it over there” the area with Avtech line. then I asked “Can we? Isn’t it for avtech only?” He raised his voice, “This is not Avtech’s land, it’s belong to no one, everyone can camp wherever they want!” Eww, this guy dislike Avtech..

There’s a water spring called Sumber Mani in Kalimati. Usually people will refill water in this place. But when I went to this place, with distance around 1 km, I saw people queuing up to get the water. I took around an hour just to get the water, oh Godd…We’re having summit attack around 12 p.m.

There were some people who already started the attack around 9 p.m. wow they really into it. But then, someone’s shouting. DILARANG PUNCAK !!! SUMMIT ATTACK IS PROHIBITED ! ALL THOSE GUY WHO HAD GONE BEFORE WERE GOING TO BE CALLED BACK !! AGAIN NO ONE CAN GO TO SUMMIT. COMMITTEE AND RANGER WILL STOP YOU !! AND IF YOU VIOLATED THE RULES, THERE WILL BE SANCTIONS IMPOSED”

Problem arises

Last year on the exact month September, I tried to reach the highest peak in Java, but unfortunately I was unable to step on that highest peak, Mahameru. After one year, I came back to test my fortune back to climb Mount Semeru.

I felt like the time had stopped at that moment when I heard someone’s screaming “Summit attack is not allowed”. My friend tried to calm me down, saying that it’s just their trick to diminish the number of people to continue their journey to the top of the mountain.

It’s ridiculous. No one came to Semeru only up until Kalimati. Ranu Kumbolo still make sense. I just could pray to God that we could do the summit attack. 12 a.m. Iky, Vivi, and I were ready to attack the summit. I insisted one person one bottle, learning from past experience when we ran out of water.

Ko Anton’s not following because of his injury. We just walked few meters than someone stopped us. He asked, “Avtech or non avtech?”, I replied, “no”. He asked, “Do you have your identity card and letter from basecamp?” “Yes, we have in our tent.” So we went back to our tent.

“What are we supposed to do?”, asked Vivi. I said, “Let us take our id card and medical letter.” We went back to that place, and we passed by, and another guy stop us. He was from avtech, also participant. Quickly we told them we were avtech and then we joined their group to climb the peak.

The hardest part, on the way to summit

Here we go, to Arcopodo. The track was steeper than before and we had to QUEUE UP ! Too many people ! Problems happened when Vivi’s sinus relapse, her stamina dropped, and she couldn’t able to go up again. Iky and I had tried our best to cheer her up.

She did her best, but then she didn’t have energy left. Luckily there was a girl who’re going down, gave up for the summit. We commended Vivi to her, then continued hiking up. Passed Arcopodo, here’s the real challenge, the sandy part.

Climb up three steps, slipped down two steps. This is the hardest part ! But holy crap, still queuing up. The line was not moving about 10 minutes. We could see one line lights covering the body of Semeru. Climbing at this time was easier than a year before. It’s raining before so the sand is more dense and compact, and many foot steps on the ground so it’s easier to step again on it.

Iky and I waited each other. We didnt want to separate far. Suddenly, I heard people screamed from above. “WATCH OUT ! BIG STONE !” You know what I saw at that time? Something that only I’d seen in movie? Yep. A big stone fell just like in the movie. People tried to avoid, but one guy got hit by the stone and he rolled down.

Someone in front of me tried to run to the other side and he almost pushed me away. It was totally chaos. Fortunately, the stone fell to the cliff before it fell further and reached where I stood. Iky called my name and asked if I was okay. I was okay but mentally I was shocked.

My body trembled and my heart beat so fast. The guy who was hit by the stone and fell down was caught by some people. That guy was just about 30 meters on my left side. People shouted where’s medic? where’s medic? who got tissue to stop the bleeding?

When the incident happened, all people stopped hiking. I heard people shouting, “Hey you guys up there, don’t step on big stone ! You know how dangerous it is? look at what have you done !” The activities stop for few minutes than back to normal. I think that guy was saved by the medic and I think he had been brought down by the medic. So scaryy..

The sun rise and we had not reached the peak yet. I kept spiriting myself not to give up. I’ve gone so far, sacrificing my final presentation, I got water this time. I caught a cold and not feeling well. Iky before walked a little bit far behind me but now he had walked after me.

Whenever I saw people going down, I asked how long is it to the peak? They said maybe one hour. Shit it’s in front of my eyes but still an hour? Be strong vel be strong. I cheered up myself. Again I asked, how long again to other guy, 30 minutes maybe. I walked and when I asked again, about 30 minutes.

Shit, why it’s so far. Finally, I saw Iky’s waving his hand and not long after that I reached the highest land on Java. I lied down and rest. “Let’s take picture, velyz” “Are you crazy? wait me rest for a while.” I was soo happy yet tired, I thanked to God, I felt moved and grateful.

Finally !!! The ground suddenly trembled and bushh, Wedus Gembel, an explosion from the crater. Without wasting any time we directly took our picture. The funny thing was we had to queue up even to take photo with the flag and the sign of Mahameru.

After satisfied taking photos, we went down. It’s much more faster than climbing up. You can run and only takes not until an hour to get down. It’s like playing ski. But I got problems going down because literally I don’t like going down.

Reached Kalimati and then directly went down to basecamp. 12 hours to basecamp can you imagine?? normally it just took 5-7 hours to reached basecamp. But my friends got injured. Ko Anton and Vivi hurt her ankle.

We arrived at basecamp on 4 a.m. sleep for a while and then back to Malang. Thanks everyone! Still Semeru is a mountain fulled with stories, memories, efforts, tears, everything. I got a quote from Ko Anton. Mount Semeru is one of the best volcanoes in Indonesia . It is like a place of pilgrimage. It’s like Muslims go to Mekkah, so do hikers hike Semeru. You are not counted as a hiker if you have not hike Semeru.

Hiked in 13-18 November 2012

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One response to “Climbing Mount Semeru: It’s Never Been Easy”

Keren banget 😀 hehe.. jadi pengen banget mengunjungi semeru :3

Mount Semeru

A climb for the bold; mount semeru- an erupting volcano, summary mount semeru indonesia - summary.

Mount Semeru is an angry volcano. It has been erupting since 1967, yet is a favourite trekking destination in Indonesia!

Should you summit it, you will almost certainly see an explosion or two – they typically occur in 10 to 30-minute intervals – but at least they’re small and regular…for now!

Climbing Mount Semeru Indonesia - Height and Distance

Natural mount semeru indonesia - natural height.

3,676m (12,060ft)

Natural Mount Semeru Indonesia - Hiking Period

The trek takes 2 days in which climbers can camp for a night at the Kalimati camp base. The trip begins at 04:00 as it can take up to 5 hours to get to the trail from Malang / Surabaya.

Difficulty Mount Semeru Indonesia - Hiking Difficulty

Difficulty mount semeru indonesia - terrain.

Black puffy clouds of volcanic ash and sand are released from the peak almost on an hourly basis. The only inconvenience you may face is the wind and rocky terrain you’ll encounter before you get to Ranu Kumbolo. The route could also get a little confusing at times due to the occasional tree and the formation of clouds.

The climbing terrain is comprised of two sections: the pre-summit section that needs to be covered on Day 1 has mostly vegetable plantations and pine forests. One may need to be careful about the monkeys in this region.

The summit section is comprised of mostly hardened lava-based rocks with little vegetation. The trail becomes more difficult as it gets steeper and the loose terrain could lead to slips if trekkers aren’t careful.

There is an alternate route that takes one through the fields back to the village of Ranu Pani, which is rarely attempted and may require one to hire a guide, especially for first-timers.

Difficulty Mount Semeru Indonesia - Weather

Temperatures are nice and cool during the daytime but can drop below freezing at night. The best time to visit Mount Semeru is in the dry season from April to November.

Difficulty Mount Semeru Indonesia - Equipment

The climb to the summit is quite steep once the trekkers leave from Kumbolo so it is important to wear sturdy boots that rise above the ankle. You’ll also need camping gear and warm clothing for the freezing nights.

Facilities Mount Semeru Indonesia - Support Facilities

Facilities mount semeru indonesia - rest stops & facilities.

You’ll find, a registration kiosk, food and potable water at the trailhead.

Along the trail and at summit base camp you’ll only have access to portable water, but food and water are easy to arrange.

Facilities Mount Semeru Indonesia - Guides and Porters

Neither guides nor porters are required or recommended.

Accessibility Mount Semeru Indonesia - Accessibility and Safety

Accessibility mount semeru indonesia - location.

The airport in Surabaya welcomes daily flights from major cities like Jakarta and Bali. It is a 5-hour drive from the airport to Ranu Pani.

Accessibility Mount Semeru Indonesia - Safety

Toxic gases: As the summit is an active volcano, gas masks are a necessity to stay safe.

Personal safety : Thousands of travellers from all over the world visit Mount Semeru every year and they tend to have a safe experience whether travelling solo or in groups. Basic precautions against theft are always recommended.

Regarding women’s safety, specifically, there are no special challenges facing women on Semeru. Many women embark on this trek annually, mostly in larger groups.

Climbing Mount Semeru Indonesia - Gallery

Semeru poking above it's jungle home

From Semeru, you can see it's neighbours poking above the clouds

Semeru poking above the clouds

Semeru and her neighbours from a distance

Weather Right Now

Timing is everything

Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru, Indonesia

Nestled in the captivating landscapes of East Java, Indonesia, the Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru, or Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, stands as a testament to the country’s natural wonders. This vast national park, covering an expanse of over 800 square kilometers, is a mesmerizing tapestry of volcanic peaks, dense forests, and cultural richness. Its name pays homage to the three prominent mountains within its borders: Mount Bromo, Mount Tengger, and Mount Semeru, each contributing to the park’s unique allure.

The iconic silhouette of Mount Bromo, an active volcano, is perhaps the most recognized feature of the national park. Rising to an altitude of 2,329 meters (7,641 feet), Bromo exudes an otherworldly charm. Visitors often embark on a pre-dawn journey to witness the sunrise from vantage points like Penanjakan, where the first light of day unveils a surreal panorama. As dawn breaks, the ethereal beauty of Mount Bromo, surrounded by a sea of volcanic sand, captivates all who behold it.

Mount Tengger, with its caldera encompassing the Sea of Sand and the whispering winds, adds to the park’s mystique. The Tenggerese people, an indigenous community residing in the highlands, hold the crater edges sacred and celebrate the annual Yadnya Kasada festival, where offerings are thrown into the crater as a gesture of gratitude to the mountain gods.

Dominating the eastern horizon, Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java at 3,676 meters (12,060 feet), is a challenging ascent for trekkers and mountaineers. The journey to Semeru’s summit promises breathtaking views and a profound sense of accomplishment.

The vast Sea of Sand, a surreal expanse surrounding Mount Bromo, is a unique geological feature. Its ashen plains and whispering winds create an almost lunar atmosphere, setting the stage for a distinctive adventure.

How to get there

Getting to Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru in East Java, Indonesia, involves a combination of land and air travel. The primary gateway to the national park is through the town of Probolinggo. Here’s a general guide on how to get to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park:

Most visitors fly into Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, the capital of East Java. Surabaya is well-connected to major cities in Indonesia.
From Surabaya, you can take a train, bus, or private transport to Probolinggo. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours by train or bus, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Board a train from Surabaya’s Gubeng Station or Pasar Turi Station to Probolinggo. Trains run regularly, and the journey provides scenic views of the East Java landscape.
Disembark at Probolinggo Railway Station. From there, you can hire a local transport service, such as a shared minivan or private car, to continue your journey to Cemoro Lawang, the main access point for Mount Bromo.
Long-distance buses also operate from Surabaya to Probolinggo. The journey time varies depending on traffic conditions.
Alight at Probolinggo Bus Station. From here, you can find local transport options to Cemoro Lawang.

From Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang:

Hire a local transport service, such as an angkot (shared minivan) or an ojek (motorcycle taxi), to reach Cemoro Lawang. Negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Consider renting a private car with a driver for a more comfortable and flexible journey. This option allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Cemoro Lawang serves as the starting point for exploring Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. From here, you can arrange guided tours or hikes to Mount Bromo, Mount Tengger, and Mount Semeru.

Things to do

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park offers a diverse range of activities, catering to nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those interested in cultural experiences. Here are some things to do when visiting this captivating Indonesian national park:

Wake up early and experience the magical sunrise over Mount Bromo. Head to viewpoints like Penanjakan to witness the sun casting a golden glow on the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Embark on a hike to the summit of Mount Bromo. The trek takes you through the Sea of Sand, and you can climb the stairs to the crater rim for a closer look into the active volcano.
For avid trekkers, consider conquering the challenging ascent to the summit of Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java. The journey offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Explore the Whispering Sands, a unique expanse of volcanic sand near Mount Bromo. The area is known for its fine black sand, and the winds create a whispering sound as they pass through the dunes.
Visit the charming village of Cemoro Lawang, the gateway to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Experience the local culture, interact with the Tenggerese people, and explore the traditional architecture.
If your visit coincides with the annual Yadnya Kasada festival, observe the Tenggerese people’s unique ritual of offering agricultural produce and livestock at the crater of Mount Bromo.
Capture the mesmerizing landscapes of the Bromo Tengger Semeru region. The diverse terrain, including volcanic craters, mountain ranges, and the Sea of Sand, provides ample opportunities for photography.
Explore the lush savanna and rolling hills, often referred to as Teletubbies Hills, near Mount Bromo. The green expanses contrast with the volcanic landscapes, creating a picturesque setting.
Venture to Madakaripura Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Java, located in the park’s vicinity. The journey involves a scenic trek through a canyon, and the waterfall is a refreshing sight.
For nature lovers, embark on a trek to Ranu Kumbolo, a serene alpine lake surrounded by lush landscapes. The trek offers a tranquil escape and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Explore the mystical Widodaren Cave, known for its unique rock formations and cultural significance. The cave is a hidden gem for those interested in spelunking.
Stay overnight and experience the clear night skies. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with its minimal light pollution, provides an excellent opportunity for star gazing.

When visiting Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, it’s recommended to check weather conditions, wear suitable attire for outdoor activities, and consider guided tours for a more enriching experience. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or simply the beauty of nature, this national park offers a multitude of experiences to satisfy every traveler.

Things not to forget

When visiting Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru in Indonesia, it’s important to come prepared for an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes and cultural richness. Here’s a list of essential items not to forget:

Make sure to obtain the necessary entry permits or passes required for visiting the national park. These permits can typically be purchased at the park entrance or online in advance.
Dress in comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and varying weather conditions. Light layers are recommended, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Wear sturdy and supportive footwear, such as hiking boots or trekking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the park’s trails and rugged terrain.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sun at high altitudes. The UV rays can be intense, even on cloudy days.
Carry an ample supply of drinking water to stay hydrated during your explorations. Pack nutritious snacks such as energy bars, nuts, or fruits to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters with a camera or smartphone. Binoculars can also enhance your wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to spot birds and other wildlife from a distance.
Bring a map, compass, or GPS device to help navigate the park’s trails and landmarks. Cell phone reception may be limited in remote areas, so having offline maps can be invaluable.
Pack a basic first aid kit containing essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may require.
Carry sufficient cash in the local currency for park entrance fees, transportation, and purchases from local vendors. Small denominations are useful for tipping guides and vendors.
When visiting cultural sites or interacting with local communities, dress modestly and respectfully. This may include covering shoulders, legs, and removing footwear when entering sacred sites.
Help minimize your environmental impact by bringing reusable water bottles and avoiding single-use plastics. Pack out any trash and dispose of it responsibly in designated bins.
Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, park rangers, and embassy or consulate information, in case of unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.

By remembering these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an enriching and enjoyable journey through Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru, fully immersing yourself in its natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru in Indonesia is during the dry season, which typically occurs from April to November. Here’s why:

The dry season is characterized by clear skies and lower chances of rainfall. This provides excellent visibility of the stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset. The iconic views of Mount Bromo and the surrounding volcanic peaks are at their best during this time.
The dry season offers favorable conditions for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and exploring the national park’s trails. The trails are less muddy, making it easier to navigate the rugged terrain.
One of the highlights of visiting Bromo Tengger Semeru is witnessing the sunrise over the volcanic landscape. Clear skies during the dry season enhance the beauty of this magical moment. Similarly, sunsets are also captivating during this time.
The Yadnya Kasada festival, celebrated by the Tenggerese people, is an annual event that usually takes place around the 14th day of the Kasada month in the traditional Javanese calendar. If your visit coincides with this festival, you can witness unique ceremonies and cultural activities.
The dry season allows for better wildlife spotting and exploration of the park’s diverse flora. The lush landscapes provide a vibrant backdrop, and you may encounter various bird species and other wildlife.

While the dry season is generally recommended for optimal conditions, it’s essential to keep in mind that Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park can still be visited during the wet season (December to March). The wet season brings lush greenery and unique perspectives, but trekking conditions may be more challenging due to muddy trails. Consider your preferences for activities and weather when planning your visit to this breathtaking Indonesian destination.

Is Mount Semeru still active?

Yes, Mount Semeru, located in Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru (Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park) in East Java, Indonesia, is an active volcano. It is the highest mountain on the island of Java, standing at an elevation of 3,676 meters (12,060 feet) above sea level. Semeru is known for its frequent activity, including the release of ash clouds and occasional eruptions.

The activity of Mount Semeru is closely monitored by local authorities, and periodic alerts or restrictions may be issued based on the volcano’s activity levels. It’s important for visitors and trekkers to check the current status of Mount Semeru before planning any trips to ensure safety.

Despite its active nature, Mount Semeru is a popular trekking destination, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts who seek to witness its unique beauty and experience the challenging ascent to the summit. Visitors are advised to follow safety guidelines, adhere to park regulations, and stay informed about any updates regarding volcanic activity in the region.

What is the highest volcano in Java?

The highest volcano in Java is Mount Semeru. Mount Semeru, also known as Mahameru (Great Mountain), stands as the highest peak on the island of Java, Indonesia. It is an active volcano located within Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru (Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park). Mount Semeru is renowned for its frequent eruptions and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers seeking both adventure and panoramic views from its summit.

With an elevation of 3,676 meters (12,060 feet) above sea level, Mount Semeru not only holds the title of the highest volcano in Java but also ranks as the highest peak on the entire island. The challenging trek to the summit offers breathtaking landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush forests, and the surrounding beauty of Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru.

What type of volcano is the Semeru volcano?

Mount Semeru is a stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano. Stratovolcanoes are characterized by their steep-sided profile and a symmetrical cone-shaped structure. These volcanoes are typically composed of alternating layers of lava flows, volcanic ash, and other volcanic rocks. The eruptions of stratovolcanoes can be explosive and are often associated with the release of ash, pyroclastic flows, and lava.

Semeru’s status as a stratovolcano is reflected in its geological structure and eruptive behavior. It is known for its regular eruptions, with historical records documenting a consistent pattern of activity. The volcano has a well-defined summit crater called Jonggring Saloko, which is often the source of eruptions.

As one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia, Mount Semeru poses both geological and natural beauty, attracting trekkers and adventurers seeking to witness its eruptions and experience the challenging ascent to its summit.

What are some fun facts about Mount Semeru?

Mount Semeru holds the distinction of being the highest peak on the island of Java, Indonesia, with an elevation of 3,676 meters (12,060 feet) above sea level.
Semeru is an active stratovolcano and is known for its frequent eruptions. The volcano exhibits a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, with ash clouds, pyroclastic flows, and occasional lava flows.
Mount Semeru is considered sacred by the Tenggerese people, who reside in the highlands near the volcano. They believe that the mountain is the abode of the ancestral spirits and hold annual ceremonies and festivals, such as the Yadnya Kasada, to offer prayers and offerings.
The Yadnya Kasada festival is a unique cultural event celebrated by the Tenggerese people. It involves a ritual of throwing offerings, including fruits, vegetables, and livestock, into the crater of Mount Bromo as a gesture of gratitude to the mountain gods.
Mount Semeru is a popular trekking destination, attracting adventure enthusiasts from around the world. The trek to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes and surrounding mountains.
The summit of Mount Semeru is marked by a crater called Jonggring Saloko. This crater is the source of the volcano’s eruptions and is characterized by its ever-changing nature due to volcanic activity.
Mount Semeru is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, which encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including other volcanic peaks like Mount Bromo and Mount Tengger. The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The volcanic soils around Mount Semeru are highly fertile, supporting agriculture in the region. Local communities engage in farming activities, cultivating crops such as vegetables and fruits in the nutrient-rich volcanic soil.
Semeru is known for its regular eruptions, with periods of increased activity leading to the release of ash clouds and volcanic material. Despite its activity, it continues to be a fascinating destination for those intrigued by the forces of nature.
Trekkers who make the journey to the summit are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Sea of Sand and the neighboring peaks of Bromo and Tengger.

Mount Semeru’s combination of geological significance, cultural importance, and stunning natural beauty makes it a captivating and iconic feature in the Indonesian landscape.

Image credits: upload.wikimedia.org

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Gunung Semeru

1 Understand
4.1 Day One
4.2 Day Two
6 Stay safe

Semeru or Mount Semeru (Indonesian: Gunung Semeru ) is an active volcano in the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park on the island of Java in Indonesia . Climbing Semeru is one of the best treks in Java. It is quite demanding, even though it requires no professional skills. The trail begins in the village of Ranu Pani, and can be completed in two days (this is the minimum).

Several travel agencies (mainly in Malang) offer to organize everything you need for the trip. However, you may very well go by yourself, from Malang to the top of the Semeru (and back!) Explaining how is the main purpose of this article.

Understand [ edit ]

Most people climb Mount Semeru in two days and one night. The first day is an easy but long walk in the forest via a lake (Ranu Kumbolo) until the Kalimati basecamp; the second day starts with the proper climb, before returning to Ranu Pani straight away (after taking breakfast in Kalimati). It is however possible to spend more days in the park. For instance, most Indonesians sleep twice in Kalimati. Other people stop at the lake on the way back to sleep there. The lake has really pretty surroundings.

The main interest of the whole thing double-sided: the view from the top at sunrise is breathtaking (your are one thousand meters above the Bromo caldeira); you are at the top of an active volcano, which erupts every 20 minutes or so (ash, gas and lava).

Prepare [ edit ]

Office of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park , Jl. Raden Intan No. 6, PO Box 54, Malang, East Java , ☏ +62 341 491828 . If you intend to climb Mount Semeru (only for serious trekkers and often closed due to eruptive activity) you must apply for a permit in advance.

It seems that access between stay of January and end of March is forbidden: no permit is possible.

Get in [ edit ]

From Malang two travel agencies organize tours to the Semeru in two days and one night. One can also ask for a three days and two nights package. These two agencies are Bromo Holidays Tour and Helios Tour. As of August 2018, the cost is Rp 3.5 million and Rp 3.05 million for one person in a group of two people, respectively. The price decreases with the size of the group. The tour begins at 05:00 and ends around 19:00 the next day.

Otherwise, the idea is to go to Tumpang,and from there reach Ranu Pani. From Malang , you may take a bemo to Arjosari which is the bemo station (around Rp 5000). Then you will find another bemo to Tumpang. It takes roughly 30 minutes and will cost you around Rp 10,000. On Jalan Sadewa, the Tumpang Camp Adventure can organize the tour for you, give you precious advise, and book a jeep for you.

Tumpang is 1.5 hours away from Ranu Pani by jeep. The road is actually good, so one may take an ojek (motorbike taxi) as well. Most people find a jeep and a driver in Tumpang, the cost is typically between Rp 500,000 and Rp 1,000,000 per jeep. You might find cotravellers in town to share it.

The beginning of the trail is at a walking distance from Ranu Pani.

Hike [ edit ]

Day one [ edit ].

The walk from Ranu Pani to Kalimati takes around six hours. The gates of the National Park open at 08:00. The entrance costs about Rp 250,000 per person and per weekday, and about Rp 300,000 per person and per weekend day. Locals pay much less. The best is to arrive at Kalimati before sunset, to camp and have dinner before night comes - it gets very cold afterwards. The track is not difficult, almost never steep and not always going up. It can be slippery though. Along the way you find several Pos, where you may buy water, refreshments and snacks. There are three of them before the lake, which you reach in about 3 hours. Most people have lunch there. You can buy food there (including instant noodles).

Then, you have three hours left to reach Kalimati (this part is slightly more difficult), with two more Pos to go.

Day Two [ edit ]

Climbing the cone takes 4 hours; going down one; walking from Kalimati to the lake takes another hour; the last part takes the same time as the day before: 3 hours. In order to be at the top a bit before sunrise, you may start walking at 01:00. The first hour leads you through the forest, on a very steep path but at least a solid one. The three hours that follow are by far the most difficult. You will have to walk in lapilis (coarse-grained sand). Not to loose too much energy, it is better to have an efficient walking technique. At each foot step, basically shoot in the ground to dig a step, on which you will stand without sliding. Above all, don’t run and stop (like many do). The secret is to be patient: step by step you will make it eventually. Keep in mind the distance you have to walk in the ash is actually very short (ca 2 km), so even if you go very slowly you will make it in good time (3 hours). As a matter of fact, the more slowly you go, the more efficiently you go.

When you reach the summit, be careful. First, the temperature is very low, only a few degrees above 0°C. Don’t hesitate to take gloves and a hat in your bag. You can also bring you sleeping bag up there. Then, be very cautious of the crater. When you reach the top, it is still rather far away (a few hundred meters to the east). When the volcano explodes, you may see lava though. Then, you may get closer if you know what you are doing: rocks are emitted, as well as gas - don’t hesitate to ask the guides on the top for the latest info about the crater activity. After the sun rises, you will mainly see smoke out of it. In any case, leave the area before 10:00, because the wind changes direction.

The way down is a lot of fun and takes 1 hour to Kalimati, where you may take your breakfast. From Kembali to the lake, it is way shorter than the way up (1 hour), whereas the last part takes the same time than the way back. This is why it can be a good idea to spend more time at the lake before going down. It is forbidden to swim in the latter, since it is a source of water for the camp.

Eat [ edit ]

You will find little shops at every Pos along the way, that is to say three before the lake, one there, two along the way to Kalimati, and one last at the camp. They sell water bottles, instant noodles (and hot water), fresh fruits, fried bananas and tofu, tea, etc. Prices increase with the altitude: a water bottle at Kalimati is Rp 25000, compared to Rp 9000 in the valley. One portion noodles at the lake costs Rp 15,000.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Mount Semeru was at activity level III or alert in December 2021. There was a further eruption on 4 December 2022. You have to look for the recent situation of Mount Semeru before climbing it. It is advised to avoid the area during eruptions due to the ash and the lethal gases around the volcano.

Go next [ edit ]

To the east, Lumajang regency.

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Conquering Mount Bromo: A Hiker's Guide to All You Need to Know

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

11 MAR 24 . 5 MIN READ . GUIDES

A Mount Bromo Hiking Guide

Imagine standing on the edge of a crater, watching the sunrise paint the sky in hues of pink and orange while you sip on your hot coffee.

If you walk with adventure enthusiasts, chances are you’ve heard of Indonesia’s Mount Bromo. It is not the tallest or the biggest mountain in the country, so why is it legendary, you might wonder. Indonesia is home to over a hundred active volcanoes, yet Mount Bromo, at a height of 2392 metres, has its allure. It offers unparalleled views of the rugged terrain and a magical sunset that is hard to come by anywhere else in the world!

If you’re ready to embark on an epic journey to Mount Bromo, with its breathtaking landscapes, then here’s a guide to all you need to know about conquering this volcanic wonder situated in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Getting to Mount Bromo
The Penanjakan Wonder
Catching the sunrise on Mount Bromo
Heading to the Crater
Madakaripura Waterfall
Mount Semeru
Mount Ijen and the Blue Fire
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Rainbow Village

1. Getting to Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is located in the eastern part of Java, Indonesia. The nearest major city is Surabaya, which can be reached by flights that take you to Juanda international airport. It is also commonly accessible from Malang.

From here, you can book one of many Mount Bromo tour packages. Mount Bromo is best done by booking a sunrise tour that takes you to Penanjakan to catch the first ray before heading to the crater.

You can also take the bus from these cities to Probolinggo and book a jeep to reach the mountain.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorbike and ride through the scenic landscapes, but make sure to download Google maps in advance – the internet might not work in these rugged terrains.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October when the skies are clearer, and the chances of rain dampening your adventure are minimal.

2. The Penanjakan Wonder

Mount Bromo is a hit with both travellers and locals, so there is bound to be traffic to the peak. This is why most tour operators will pick you up from Surabaya or Malang around midnight. The journey takes around 2-3 hours by jeep; we also recommend booking a 2D/1N tour to Mount Bromo so you can unwind at Tretes before heading to the mountain.

@bethmcafee14 Never forget this #indonesia #mountbromo #bromo #malang #java #backpacking #volcano #nature #travel #hike ♬ moon song x sparks – miles

In addition to its spectacular views, Mount Bromo has all sorts of myths and legends, which are of great significance to the Tengger people, who believe this is where a prince sacrificed his life to save his family. Every year, during the Kasada festival, the community prays to the gods and drops offerings in the crater of Mount Bromo.

3. Catching the sunrise on Mount Bromo

This is the best Mount Bromo sunrise viewpoint in the region. From Kingkong Hill on Mount Penanjakan, you’ll have an epic panoramic view of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. A drive in your jeep early in the morning will take you to Kingkong Hill. You get down here and walk five minutes to a small tourist spot to get coffee, fried banana fritters and other essentials.

Located on the opposite side of Kingkong Hill, Seruni Viewpoint is another excellent option to watch the sunrise over Mount Bromo. The view from here is equally spectacular, and you might have a bit more space to move around and take pictures without the crowds.

Once you reach the viewpoint, find a cosy spot and prepare to be mesmerised. As the sun begins to rise, the colours of the sky change rapidly, casting a magical glow over the rugged terrain. It’s a sight so incredible that you’ll forget about the early morning wake-up call (almost)!

Remember to snap those pictures, but also take a moment to soak in the beauty of nature unfolding before your eyes.

4. Heading to the crater

Image Source

After the sunrise is done, we recommend hurrying down in your jeep from Mount Bromo to head to the most adventurous part of this trip – visiting the crater. You’ll be dropped at the Luhur Poten Hindu Temple, from where it’s a 10-minute walk across the Sea of Sand, a vast desert-like plain, to the stairs. You can also ride on a horse to cover this distance.

Tip: don’t forget your hat and mask so you don’t get sand in your mouth!

Next up is the Bromo Crater itself. To reach the crater rim, you’ll need to climb for 10 minutes. The reward at the top is a view of the smouldering crater and the sulphurous gases rising from within at short gaps – a truly otherworldly sight! Don’t worry, the volcano last erupted in 2019 and is now closely monitored, so it’s safe to visit.

@ausgeo Mount Bromo (Javanese: ꦒꦸꦤꦸꦁ ꦧꦿꦩ) sits at 2,329 meters (7,641 ft). This is an active somma volcano part of the Tengger mountains in East Java, Indonesia. Since 1767, more than 60 eruptions have been recorded, with the last being in 2016. Have you been here? 🤔🌋 🎥 @Canro Simarmata #ausgeo #volcanoeruption #volcano #indonesia #discoverearth #adventuretravel ♬ original sound – Australian Geographic

Holding onto the barrier, make your way around the rim of the crater to experience this stunning natural wonder. Few experiences come close to standing atop a volcano, so take it all in.

Safety first: as with any adventure, safety should be a priority. Listen to your guides and follow their instructions. Some areas might be off-limits due to volcanic activity, so it’s essential to respect the boundaries. And remember, while taking photos is fantastic, don’t get too close to the edge of the crater.

What to pack for the hike: remember to bring sturdy hiking shoes to conquer the rocky terrains. Dress in layers as temperatures can change rapidly, especially during sunrise. A warm sweater or jacket is a must for the chilly early morning hours.

Pro-tip: pack plenty of water to stay hydrated, and don’t forget the sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s fierce rays. A camera with extra memory cards and batteries is essential to capture those Insta-worthy moments.

Must-visit attractions around Mount Bromo

While Mount Bromo in itself is a fantastic experience, there is nothing like combining it with a tour to nearby destinations that only add to your experience.

5. Madakaripura Waterfall

Mount bromo sunrise and madakaripura waterfall tour, idr 1,344,000.

Located just a short drive from Mount Bromo, Madakaripura Waterfall is a hidden gem that will take your breath away. This majestic waterfall cascades down a narrow canyon, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a magical atmosphere. You can combine a sunrise tour of Bromo with a day trip to Madakaripura Waterfall. If you are starting from Surabaya or Malang, you can opt for a combined Madakaripura and Mount Bromo tour that lasts two days.

6. Mount Semeru

For the intrepid adventurers seeking a challenge, Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, awaits. This active volcano is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and offers a challenging trek to its summit. The rewards include breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment like no other.

7. Mount Ijen and the Blue Fire

3d2n mount bromo, madakaripura waterfall and ijen blue fire..., idr 3,472,000.

Though a bit further away from Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen is worth the trip. This active volcano is famous for its mesmerising blue fire phenomenon, caused by ignited sulfuric gas. A night hike to the summit rewards you with a surreal view of the blue flames dancing in the darkness – something you won’t forget. You can book a two-day Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater tour to spend the night in the Ijen area. But if you have more time, then we suggest booking a 3D/2N adventure tour that includes visits to Mount Bromo, the captivating Madakaripura Waterfall, and the mesmerising blue fire of Ijen Crater.

8. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Tumpak sewu waterfall and rainbow village tour, idr 728,000.

Also known as the ‘Thousand Waterfalls,’ Tumpak Sewu is located close to Mount Bromo. Here you can see many streams cascade down the cliffs, giving the appearance of a thousand waterfalls merging.

9. Rainbow Village

Image source

Rainbow Village, locally known as Kampung Pelangi, is a hidden gem tucked away in the town of Malang in East Java. Every alley, house and stair is decorated with murals and art, making you feel like you’ve entered an open-air art gallery. This village was revamped through a government initiative that hoped to revive the area. We recommend interacting with the locals here to learn more about their customs and culture.

You can combine Tumpak Sewu Waterfall & Rainbow Village into a single tour that will show you the best of both nature and human ingenuity.

Pro tip: while the Bromo sunrise tour is very popular among visitors, we also suggest you catch a glimpse of the milky way from Mount Bromo. Look for a tour that will take you to the Sea of Sands for an up close and personal time with the night sky.

Bidding farewell

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a newbie explorer, Mount Bromo will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Go ahead and pack your bags, but more importantly, pack your spirit of adventure and get ready to witness nature’s grandeur at its finest.

Commonly Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit mount bromo.

The best time to visit Mount Bromo is between April and October.

How do I get to Mount Bromo from Surabaya?

You can reach Mount Bromo from Surabaya by hiring a private jeep, joining a group tour, or renting a motorbike.

Do I need a guide to explore Mount Bromo?

While it’s not mandatory to have a guide, having one can enhance your experience and lets you stay safe.

Is it safe to visit Mount Bromo?

Yes, it is generally safe to visit Mount Bromo. The volcano is closely monitored, and authorities will close the area if there are any signs of potential danger. However, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines, respect the boundaries set by the park authorities, and listen to your guide’s instructions.

What should I wear when visiting Mount Bromo?

As the weather can be chilly during sunrise and cooler at higher elevations, it’s recommended to dress in layers. A warm sweater or jacket, long pants, and sturdy hiking shoes are ideal.

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Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. The steep-sided volcano, also referred to as Mahameru (Great Mountain), rises abruptly to 3676 m above coastal plains to the south. Gunung Semeru was constructed south of the overlapping Ajek-ajek and Jambangan calderas. A line of lake-filled maars was constructed along a N-S trend cutting through the summit, and cinder cones and lava domes occupy the eastern and NE flanks. Summit topography is complicated by the shifting of craters from NW to SE. Frequent 19th and 20th century eruptions were dominated by small-to-moderate explosions from the summit crater, with occasional lava flows and larger explosive eruptions accompanied by pyroclastic flows that have reached the lower flanks of the volcano. Semeru has been in almost continuous eruption since 1967. More than 500 people have been killed by Semeru's eruptions during the last 30 years.

The eruptions are commonly moderate to moderately large (VEI=2-3) and some of the eruptions produced pyroclastic flows and/or lava flows. Ten of these eruptions have been fatal. Mudflows and secondary mudflows have been the most dangerous, killing nearly 600 people during the 1909 and 1981 eruptions. The most recent eruption of Semeru began in 1967 and has continued to the present. Vulcanian-type eruptions are common at Semeru and the generated pyroclastic flows, lava flows, and domes. Nearly 500 people have been killed by the current eruption. In August of 1994, explosions were occurring at intervals of 15-20 minutes. In February of 1995, pyroclastic avalanches travelled up to 0.6 mile (1 km) from the summit.

Sources of Information:

SI/USGS Global Volcanism Program
Darwin VAAC
Simkin, T., and Siebert, L., 1994, Volcanoes of the World: Geoscience Press, Tucson, Arizona, 349 p.

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Mount Semeru Volcano

Top ways to experience Mount Semeru Volcano and nearby attractions

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Mount Semeru Volcano - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Semeru Volcano Trek

Trek of the active volcano gunung semeru.

Are you passionate about hiking and Trek to discover ? The Gunung Semeru volcano is the highest volcano in Java culminating at nearly 3700 m. An invitation to discover this sacred place whose name Meru recalls a mythical mountain in Hinduism representing the axis of the world and the domain of the Gods. Accompanied by a local guide, the Trek takes place over 3 days and promises a beautiful immersion nature to the meeting of active volcano … departure from beautiful and colourful agricultural villages, set in the heart of the primary forest, then a crossing of an alpine plateau covered with giant lavender from which emerges on the horizon the imposing volcanic cone. A departure at night at the front will allow you to reach the summit before sunrise. When the first rays sweep your face, that’s when the magic operates! A grandiose landscape emerges to unveil in filigree the string of volcanoes that make up the unique landscape of Java … Before your eyes, the amazing activity of the volcano that offer a series of small explosions every 30 minutes…

« The best trip is the one we have not done yet »

Paul Valéry

A glimpse …

Mount Bromo

A Guide for Trekking Mount Bromo in Indonesia

With at least 129 active volcanoes and daily earthquakes, Indonesia is the most geologically diverse and volatile place on the planet.

Mount Bromo in the eastern part of Java isn't the tallest of Indonesia's active volcanoes, but it is certainly the most visited. Easily accessible, tourists hike to the rim - situated at 7,641 feet - to observe the otherworldly landscape that is often found on so many Indonesian postcards. Sunrise from the top is truly spectacular.

Unlike the cone of Gunung Rinjani which is surrounded by water, Mount Bromo is surrounded by a plain is known as the "Sea of Sand" - fine volcanic sand which has been a protected area since 1919. The caldera is a lifeless, bleak reminder of the destructive forces of nature when compared to the lush, green valleys below the peak.

Although not as active as the nearby Mount Semeru which is in a continuous state of eruption, Mount Bromo's plume of white smoke is a constant reminder that it could explode at any time. Two tourists were killed when a small explosion occurred at the peak in 2004.

Orientation

Mount Bromo is one of three monolithic peaks situated in the Tengger Massif caldera in the Bromo-Tergger-Semeru National Park . Most travelers visit Bromo from the base town of Probolinggo , just a few hours from Surabaya and around 27 miles from the national park. The journey from Surabaya to Probolinggo takes about three hours by bus.

The village of Cemoro Lawang - the usual starting point for backpackers - is around three miles from Ngadisari, located on the border of the national park.

Trekking Mount Bromo

The views of Mount Bromo's eerie landscape are best just as the sun rises. Unfortunately, this means a 3:30 a.m. wake-up and braving near-freezing temperatures in the dark while waiting for sunrise.

Organized tours by bus or jeep are available, however, Bromo is best enjoyed without the help of a guide. The national park is easily explorable on your own and there are many options for viewing Mount Bromo.

The most popular option for backpackers is to sleep in Cemoro Lawang, the village nearest the rim, then walk the well-defined path (less than one hour) to witness the sunrise. Life in Cemoro Lawang is oriented around the early mornings and restaurants are open for breakfast serving delicious Indonesian food .

Another option is to climb or take a bus up the paved road to nearby Mount Penanjakan . The concrete viewing platform offers stunning views of the Caldera but gets busy with tour groups in the morning.

Most of the tour groups come only for sunrise and depart soon after; sticking around a little longer may provide you a chance to enjoy the trails and viewpoints in relative solitude.

What to Bring

Flashlight: The trails are relatively easy to follow but are extremely dark before sunrise.
Water: Despite the cold weather, you will find yourself sweating on the trail.
Warm Clothing: Temperatures are surprisingly cold around Mount Bromo. Ask anyone what they thought of the sunrise and they will tell you that they were too cold to notice!

Temperatures are cool year-round in the national park, but dip down to near-freezing at night. Dress in layers and expect to be cold waiting for the sun to rise. The guest houses in Cemoro Lawang don't always provide adequate blankets for the cold nights.

When to Go to Mount Bromo

The dry season in Java is from April to October . Hiking around the national park during the rainy season is more difficult due to slippery paths and volcanic mud.

The entrance fee to the national park is around the US $6.

Mount Senaru

Mount Senaru is the highest volcano in Java and is dangerously active. Impressive and daunting in the backdrop, a trip up the volcano is only for the adventurous and well-prepared. A guide and permit are required for the strenuous, two-day trek to the top.

Mount Batok

Nearby Mount Batok appears as the muddy volcano in the center of the caldera. No longer active, Mount Batok can be hiked to with relative ease from Mount Bromo.

Hiking from Bromo to Mount Batok and then around Mount Penanjakan takes just over a few hours at a steady pace.

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Tours & Dates
Destinations

Volcanoes of Java

All major volcanoes of Java in one tour
Trekking adventures
Contact with friendly local people
Extreme diversity of Java

17 days itinerary Jakarta - Bali

Additional info

Physical requirements.

The hikes in the program range from fairly easy to challenging. This tour is challenging and only suitable for peole in good to excellent physical condition and experience in hiking (walks on partly difficult terrain with steep passages on loose or rocky ground , total hiking walking time up to 8-10 hours, max. horizontal distances up to ca. 15 km, max. climbing during a day: 1000-1500m). If you have doubt about your condition, please contact us.

Arrival & meeting in Jakarta

Transfer to bandung – museum of geology – tangkuban perahu volcano, transfer to garut - climb papandayan volcano, kamojang – galunggung volcano, scenic train ride to yogyakarta - prambanan temple, borobodur temple - merapi volcano and its surroundings.

Free day in Yogya

Climb merapi volcano for sunrise - transfer to kediri (near kelud), kelud volcano, transfer to malang - tengger massiv - semeru, first etappe on the trek to semeru.

A green lake we pass on our way to Semeru

Climb to Semeru's summit

Hike back to Ranu Pani and 4X4 transfer to Bromo

4X4 jeep drive towards and into the Tengger caldera

Bromo volcano & Tengger caldera

Passing by the old volcano of Batok on the way to Bromo´s crater rim

Sunrise over the Tengger Kaldera - Transfer to Ijen

Kawah Ijen volcano - transfer to Bali

End of tour on Bali

Tour dates & prices, prices for tours at custom dates on request.

All accommodation in hotels and camps as specified
Full board including drinks in reasonable amounts except a few meals as specified
All ground, sea and air transfers as described in the program
Airport pick-ups
Transfer to Denpasar airport or other destination on Bali on last day
Entry fees, visits to parks and archeological sites etc. as described by the program (incl. Borobodur)
Equipment for camps (tents, mattresses, cooking gear; exception: an own sleeping should be brought)
Local porters and guides
Experienced Indonesian English-speaking guide

Not included:

Travel to and from Indonesia
Indonesia Visa if needed
Airport departure taxes (if not included in flight tickets, payable at the airport check-in)
Single room supplement
Mandatory personal travel insurance
Alcoholic drinks and few meals not listed as included in the itinerary
Personal safety equipment (safety helmet and gas mask; we can provide one for you on request.)

"I am convinced that I couldn't have found any better tour option to discover these magnificent volcanoes of Indonesia" (Aravind P. about the Volcanoes of East Java tour )

Bromo strongly degassing at sunrise, September 2016 (image: Aravind P.)

"Hi Tom and Ingrid, Hope you guys are doing fine, perhaps busy with some volcanic adventures!. I came back to Switzerland well after a great holiday in Indonesia. ... ...This was certainly a superb tour and wonderful exploration of the active volcanoes of east Java within the limits of time and possibility of all that can be done. Galih did a great job in guiding me well throughout the trip. He was very flexible, open to requests and definitely gave a great company. More so, I enjoyed all those wonderful discussions on Volcanoes with him. It was certainly a very educative trip for me , but all the more a big event in watching a real lava rock fall/partial flow after Semeru's strombolian explosion. ... wow, what a spectacular setting!. I am now even more enthusiastic to explore more volcanoes in the future. I have some wonderful moments to remember from the entire tour . I am convinced that I couldn't have found any better tour option to discover these magnificent volcanoes of Indonesia. Sincere thanks to the company and Galih and Ganz herzclichen Dank zu Tom and Ingrid! ... ... I now know whom to approach for serious volcanic explorations and ... I am sure to contact you guys again sometime in the future :-). Good luck for volcano discovery! best, Aravind" (Aravind P. from Switzerland, about his private Volcanoes of East Java tour in September 2016 )

...a wonderful trip with an excellent guide... ( Volcanoes of East Java tour )

"Dear Ingrid, I'm sitting here in a coffee bar on Kuta beach walk and fill the time between two espressi to write these few lines about my trip. I enjoyed it very much. Organisation, accommodation and transfers went well. Galih was guiding with a lot of passion, competence and patience. Especially Krakatau was one of the highlights. Unfortunatly Ijien was closed due to vulcanic activities. But apart from that, a wonderful trip with an excellent guide. Thank you (Thomas N. from Germany, on his private October 2015 which was customised with an extension to Krakatau)

a marvelous trip that exceeded even my high expectations

"Tom, now my wife and I are at home after our From Krakatao to Bali trip and I want to thank you for a great experience. It was a marvelous trip that exceeded even my high expectations . Some comments: a) Galih was an excellent guide both in terms of trekking volcanoes and giving us an insight into Indonesian culture . b) The drivers, especially the first one (Danny?), was exceptional in smoothly and safely navigating the maze of cars and motorbikes. c) My initial concerns (based on Internet comments) about the Batavia (now De Rivier) Hotel in Jakarta were misplaced. This hotel is very good for its price, and it provides comfort and a unique atmosphere. I am glad we stayed there. d) The itinerary was thoughtfully planned and well executed . Emphasis on early morning departures for good light and diminished crowds was very appropriate. e) Having hammocks on Krakatau was most welcome. It was much better than sleeping in the tent, and to my great surprise, there were no (or very few) mosquitoes or other biting insects. f) On the first night we were the only tourists on Krakatau, and the morning walk up the volcano was a real pleasure. On the second (weekend) night there were already many people camping there, and the walk on the following day would not have been as pleasant. Keeping away from weekends on Krakatau is indeed very desirable. g) The Ijen Resort was a highlight of the trip. It is one of the most beautifully located hotels we have ever encountered over many decades of world travel. h) Although the last hotel on Bali was fine and its location did not affect us, it is not on the beach as the trip outline on the web indicates. Had we expected to have a great beach-experience, we would have been disappointed. i) We were surprised about the few American volcano tourists. You may use us references, if you wish. With appreciation and best wishes, Peter" (Peter K., about the Krakatau to Bali tour)

"The tour was excellent, exceeded all expectations." ( Krakatau to Bali photo tour )

"Hi Tom, I am finally home . The tour was excellent, exceeded all expectations. Galih made the trip very interesting and was a pleasure to know. He kept us informed on everything and every where we went. I hope to catch up with him again. Thanks for organising such a great tour, it will have lasting memories . Cheers Vic" (from from Bridgetown, Australia about the Krakatau to Bali photo tour )

...all the family is very happy and we will all remember these holidays all our life...

"Hi Tom, We have just finished our trip in Java : we enjoyed it a lot, all the family is very happy and we will all remember these holidays all our life. Andi is very professional, very nice and did his best to make the trip interesting for our kids. My husband was very happy to take beautiful pictures. And I was happy to do some trekking on volcanoes. I hope other families can enjoy this trip in the future. We look forward to make another trip with Volcano Discovery, Thank you for all the organization, Kind regards, Maud" (Maud S., Singapore, Volcanoes of East Java custom tour " See also: Frederick's photos from the tour

Feedback for the tour "from Krakatoa to Bali" in August 2013

Hi VolcanoDiscovery-Team, We have just finished our trip in Java : we enjoyed it a lot, all the family is very happy and we will all remember these holidays all our life. Andi is very professional, very nice and did his best to make the trip interesting for our kids. My husband was very happy to take beautiful pictures. And I was happy to do some trekking on volcanoes. I hope other families can enjoy this trip in the future. We look forward to make another trip with Volcano Discovery, Thank you for all the organization, Kind regards, Maud

"... this tour was one of the best in our lives" ( Volcanoes of East Java tour )

" We returned from our trip to Bromo and Ijen on Sunday evening. This is the first time now that I can sit to my computer and - believe me - my very first act is to write to you about our trip. First off the overall opinion of my family is that this tour was one of the best in our lives. We visited many beautiful places in exceptionally good weather and with a very professional and caring tour guide Galih. I've been living here in Indonesia for one and a half year and I've learned that timing and information handling is a bit strange here for a European. But this time it was quite different. I got immediate responses to my SMSs and emails from Galih, his planning and execution of our days were just flawless. They were very helpful to us, he explained everything in details, always adjusted the pacing of the day to our experience level, supplied us food snacks and drinks in the right time. Keep up the great operation!! Best regards: Gyorgy" (Hungary, Volcanoes of East Java tour )

"The trip was superb..." (Richard H., Krakatau to Bali tour )

"Hello Tom: just got back from Java this morning. The trip was superb and I just wanted to tell you how much we appreciated Andi and Galih who stepped in when Andi became sick. Everyone has an excellent visit and learnt a great deal. Krakatua and Ijen were my personal highlights. Best wishes Dick" (Richard H., Australia)

"...most amazing tour" ( Volcanoes of Java tour )

" Just a quick email to say thank you for what was the most amazing tour (Volcanoes of Java) in August . Galih was an informative and helpful guide - he was incredibly knowledgeable and catered to all our needs. We were able to experience every volcano we had time for (sacrificed some sleep to fit in an extra couple!) and it was well worth it. The highlight was most definitely seeing lava bubbling on the floor of Merapi crater - something to tick off the bucket list! I rarely go on holiday and feel such a sense of achievement at the end of it. As a Geography teacher, this was a dream come true and would not hesitate to recommend VolcanoDiscovery to anybody - thank you so much. Both of you were incredibly helpful in your email correspondence prior to the tour and I received my gas mask well in time. I hope to travel with your company again in the future." (Tina P., Coventry, UK)

"thoroughly enjoyed the trip" ( Java Volcanoes Trekking tour )

"HI Tom, ... I just wanted to give you some feed-back on my recent trip: Volcanoes of Java: 8-24 July 2012. My son Zakkary & I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. We feel that your guide, Andi did a wonderful job and represented your company extremely well. You've got a good guy there! Little surprises like including some beer with many meals and a T shirt are very appreciated. I would highly recommend your company and hope, when I can find the time to perhaps use your services in Vanuatu at some stage. Thanks once again, David" (Australia)

Wonderful landscapes Volcanoes of Java

Dear ###VD### Team, after returning from Java / Bali, I'd like to send you a a quick report about our trip. Marita and I felt super well on the tour from the very first day until the end. Andi took great care of Marita and could almost read every wish from her lips. Despite her pregnancy, she could enjoy the tour and would not have liked to miss a single day. I got to know Andi as extremely caring and responsible tour guide, one who also has great competence in photography - something rare to find! His enthousiastic way to show us Indonesia and the beauty of volcanoes is contagious from the first moment and makes wanting for MORE! Marita und I would like to thank you and your team very warmly for the great tour. As a side note, we appreciated a lot that the maximum number of participants was set to only 6, which made for a very pleasant experience of the whole trip. Many greetings Dietmar and Marita

"I thank you again for this fantastic trip and the enthusiasm, your service to get up early every day. This is not as a matter of course. Claus and Anna" ( Krakatau to Bali photo tour )

...what a great time we had...

"Hi Tom We are now back from our holiday in Indonesia. Just wanted to drop you a message to say what a great time we had with Andi. The blue flames of Kawah Ijen were really a special sight to see, I'm amazed its not more nown as a tourist destination. Almost all the people we spoke to at Ijen during the day didn't know what wonders can be seen at night. Bromo was great too. Overall we had a fantastic time, many thanks. Phil H." ( Volcanoes of East Java private tour )

Feedback about the Bromo, Semeru, Ijen trekking tour

"Hi Tom, Just wanted to let you know what a great trip to East Java we had earlier this month. It was a fantastic trip with spectacular sights resulting in some 500+ pictures. We really enjoyed ourselves and had a great guide with Galih. Also the porters and drivers we had did a great job. We were very pleased to see that the porters not only collected our garbage but also others'. It is really quite sad to see that others just drop theirs. Cheers, Elke and Kai" (Malaysia)

Katharina's feedback (in German) about the Krakatau to Bali tour (July 2009)

"Hallo Tobias, hallo Tom Ich bereue nichts !!! Eine fantastische, anspruchsvolle Tour wird sich in meiner Erinnerung einprägen, als eine meiner schönsten Reisen überhaupt. ... Ich bedanke mich bei Tobias für die guten Tipps zum noch besser Fotografieren und bei Ihnen beiden für die perfekt organisierte und durch wirklich fähige Leute geführte Tour . Ich kann mir gut vorstellen, dass dies nicht die einzige bleiben wird, die ich bei VulcanoDiscovery gebucht habe. Das Gleichgewicht zwischen Anstrengung und Geniessen entspricht so ziemlich genau meinen Bedürfnissen, damit ich mich gefordert und zufrieden fühle. Nochmals vielen Dank und die herzliche Grüsse aus der Schweiz Katharina"

Andy's comment on the Krakatau to Bali tour (July 2009)

Antony on the boat to Rakata island near Anak Krakatau

"Dear Volcanodiscovery and my Tour Guide Andy, I would like to thank you both for the great trip that you provided. I found the organisation was excellent and the food at many of the restaurants was superb. I think the highlight was Krakatoa which is really an amazing volcano, and some of the high climbs which were very exciting. Every volcano we visited was a bit different. Andy is a very experienced guide, who can take you as close to any volcano in the tour as you like as deemed safe by him. Most of all I was very impressed with Andy's enthusiasm, he loves the volcanoes and it really shows in his own keenness to see them over and over again. Indonesia I found overall was also very scenic. And I would encourage others to book this tour before the masses find out about it!! I hope that one day a tour will be offered to Sumatra and Andy can lead the way once again. Cheers Dr Antony V.E., Melbourne Australia."

Peter from Denmark about the Krakatau special tour:

Hello Tom. My journey home, went without problems. As i told, this visit to krakatau was the fullfilment of a life long dream for me. To see an active volcano and a famous one to. you, Doni, Marco and the others was very fine company. I liked to be together with you, it was a good experience and would like to do it again... My best gretings. Peter"

Blick in Teufels Küche" Bromo (Foto: Hanspeter Ulrich)

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Impressions from a trekking tour to Java's volcanoes in 2006. (Photo: Tom Pfeiffer)

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Report on Semeru (Indonesia) — 24 April-30 April 2024

Smithsonian Institution / US Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, 24 April-30 April 2024 Managing Editor: Sally Sennert.

Please cite this report as: Global Volcanism Program, 2024. Report on Semeru (Indonesia) (Sennert, S, ed.). Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, 24 April-30 April 2024. Smithsonian Institution and US Geological Survey.

Weekly Report (24 April-30 April 2024)

8.108°S, 112.922°E; summit elev. 3657 m

All times are local (unless otherwise noted).

Geological Summary. Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. The steep-sided volcano, also referred to as Mahameru (Great Mountain), rises above coastal plains to the south. Gunung Semeru was constructed south of the overlapping Ajek-ajek and Jambangan calderas. A line of lake-filled maars was constructed along a N-S trend cutting through the summit, and cinder cones and lava domes occupy the eastern and NE flanks. Summit topography is complicated by the shifting of craters from NW to SE. Frequent 19th and 20th century eruptions were dominated by small-to-moderate explosions from the summit crater, with occasional lava flows and larger explosive eruptions accompanied by pyroclastic flows that have reached the lower flanks of the volcano.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

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SEMERU VOLCANO TREKKING (5D4N), Bromo tour package, Ijen Crater tour
Trek Semeru : hiking and adventure travel in Java, Indonesia
Mount Semeru Trekking Package & Tour Information
El volcán Semeru, un lugar de otro planeta en Java
Mount Semeru on High Alert with Volcanic Activity
Trek Semeru : hiking and adventure travel in Java, Indonesia

VIDEO

Semeru Volcano Eruption by drone
Active VOLCANO Trek in Indonesia #shorts
Woah! That was a big eruption at Semeru Volcano, Indonesia (Jan 7, 2024)
Dec 25 2023 nice pyroclastic flow on Semeru volcano
Semeru Volcano Explosive Eruptions at night
Can You Trek an ACTIVE VOLCANO?

COMMENTS

Hiking Mount Semeru, the highest volcano in Java
As the most popular volcano in Java, more than 140,000 trekkers climb Mount Semeru every year. It creates economic opportunities for people in Ranupane and other communities in the surrounding areas for working in trekking industry, from porters, mountain guides, homestay owners to jeep drivers etc.
Hiking Mount Semeru (3.676m)
Semeru is a stratovolcano, which with its 3.676 meters above sea level, can be called the roof of Java. The mountain is also known as Mahameru, meaning 'The Great Mountain'. The name originates from the Hindu cosmology's mountain of Meru or Sumeru, the place where gods reside. It's a popular hiking destination that provides you with a ...
Hiking Volcano Semeru: Trekking adventure of a lifetime
Mount Semeru ( Gunung Semeru in Bahasa Indonesia) is an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in Java at 3,676 meters ASL (12,060 feet ASL). It is located at 8°6'28.8"S, 112°55'12.0"E in East Java, Indonesia. Hiking Volcano Semeru is a once in a lifetime experience with striking views and extraordinary adventure.
Semeru : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost
Information on the trek to Mt. Sirung on Pantar Island. Overview. Gunung Semeru, also referred to as Mahameru (= "Great Mountain"), is the highest mountain on Java and one of the highest in Indonesia. It is a stratovolcano. ... to the volcano's periodic activity. Many people climb this mountain, tourists and Indonesians alike. The steep-sided ...
Semeru
The Semeru (Javanese: ꦱꦼꦩꦺꦫꦸ), or Mount Semeru (Javanese: ꦒꦸꦤꦸꦁ ꦱꦼꦩꦺꦫꦸ, romanized: Gunung Semeru; Pegon: ڮنڠ سمَيرو ‎) is an active volcano located in East Java, Indonesia.It is located in a subduction zone, where the Indo-Australian plate subducts under the Eurasia plate. It is the highest mountain on the island of Java.
Climbing and Trekking Semeru in East Java
Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night for solo travelers. For a solo traveler, we also offer the opportunity to climb the Semeru at a reasonable price from IDR 2,700,000 or € 169. However, this trek will be done without a guide. But, you will have 2 porters speaking only the local languages.
Gunung Semeru
Information on climbing the volcano Gunung Semeru in East Java, Indonesia. Includes route description, photos, maps, comments and hiking advice. ... "Budi was a brilliant guide for our September 2023 trek up Gunung X and I would definitely recommend him to other tourists", John, USA. Practicalities.
Mount Semeru Trekking in Indonesia
Mount Semeru. Mount Semeru is Java's highest peak at 3676 M /12,130 ft. Semeru is also Hindu Indonesians' (read 'Balinese') most sacred mountain. More importantly to hikers, Mount Semeru is Java's most active volcano, randomly spewing out deadly toxic fumes. Unfortunate hikers do occasionally die from getting caught in Semeru's ...
Semeru Trekking, Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater Tour 6 Days
Most people reach the Semeru volcano summit about 4 hours, but it depends on your body strong to keep going. the best time for Semeru trek is at midnight due to the gass produces by continuing smokes of Semeru volcano crater always belches every 20 minutes. You will reach the summit at 05.00 AM; Enjoy Mount Semeru sunrise, and all views.
Semeru Volcano, East Java (Indonesia)
Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. Semeru, a favourite mountain trekking destination, has been in almost continuous eruption since 1967. It is known for its regular ash explosions that typically occur at intervals of 10-30 minutes ...
Climbing Mount Semeru: It's Never Been Easy
Mount Semeru is a volcano located in East Java, Indonesia with the elevation of 3,676m. It's the highest volcano in Java Island and the third highest in Indonesia after Mount Kerinci and Mount Rinjani. Climbing Mount Semeru is like a dream for every hikers in Indonesia. Known for its challenging trek, especially before the summit, however ...
Summits
Mount Semeru is an angry volcano. It has been erupting since 1967, yet is a favourite trekking destination in Indonesia! ... Regarding women's safety, specifically, there are no special challenges facing women on Semeru. Many women embark on this trek annually, mostly in larger groups. Climbing Mount Semeru Indonesia - Gallery.
Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru, Indonesia
The challenging trek to the summit offers breathtaking landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush forests, and the surrounding beauty of Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru. What type of volcano is the Semeru volcano? Mount Semeru is a stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano.
Gunung Semeru
Semeru or Mount Semeru (Indonesian: Gunung Semeru) is an active volcano in the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park on the island of Java in Indonesia.Climbing Semeru is one of the best treks in Java. It is quite demanding, even though it requires no professional skills. The trail begins in the village of Ranu Pani, and can be completed in two days (this is the minimum).
Bromo, Semeru, Ijen: Volcanoes of East Java (trekking and adventure tour)
Day 2: First etappe on the trek to Semeru. Start the climb to Semeru through a long but moderate trek until Kalimati camp. Day 3: Climb to Semeru's summit. Strenous climb up the steep cone of Semeru for sunrise, descend and hike to second camp at a lake. Day 4: Hike back to Ranu Pani and 4X4 transfer to Bromo.
Conquering Mount Bromo: A Hiker's Guide to All You Need to Know
For the intrepid adventurers seeking a challenge, Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, awaits. This active volcano is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and offers a challenging trek to its summit. The rewards include breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment like no other.
Semeru
Photo and caption credit: Campbell Bridge (via Trek Earth at: ... Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. The steep-sided volcano, also referred to as Mahameru (Great Mountain), rises abruptly to 3676 m above coastal plains to the ...
Mount Semeru Volcano
Semeru, at 3676m is still very much an active volcano and even during my visit was belching forth smoke, dust and hurling the occasional rock into the air. Be warned: this is not a trek to be lightly undertaken although it should be within the capabilities of most fit individuals.
Trek Semeru : hiking and adventure travel in Java, Indonesia
TREK OF THE ACTIVE VOLCANO GUNUNG SEMERU. Are you passionate about hiking and Trek to discover ? The Gunung Semeru volcano is the highest volcano in JavaGunung Semeru volcano is the highest volcano in Java
Trekking Indonesia's Mount Bromo in Java
Orientation. Mount Bromo is one of three monolithic peaks situated in the Tengger Massif caldera in the Bromo-Tergger-Semeru National Park. Most travelers visit Bromo from the base town of Probolinggo, just a few hours from Surabaya and around 27 miles from the national park. The journey from Surabaya to Probolinggo takes about three hours by bus.
Volcanoes of Java: Krakatau, Papandayan, Galunggung, Merapi, Kelut
The 17-days study and trekking tour crosses Java from West to East and ends on Bali. Along the way, we visit and climb some of its most interesting and active volcanoes: Papandayan and Galunggung in West Java, Merapi in Central Java, Kelud, Semeru, Bromo, the Tengger caldera, and Ijen in East Java. This tour combines easy to moderate hikes with some adventurous trekking and its main goal is to ...
Report on Semeru (Indonesia)
Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, and one of its most active, lies at the southern end of a volcanic massif extending north to the Tengger caldera. The steep-sided volcano, also referred to as Mahameru (Great Mountain), rises above coastal plains to the south. Gunung Semeru was constructed south of the overlapping Ajek-ajek and Jambangan ...

Hiking Mount Semeru, the highest volcano in Java

Hiking Mount Semeru - the highest volcano in Java

Ranupane “the little Lukla”

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Hiking Mount Semeru (3.676m) – the highest volcano on Java

Everything you need to know before you go

Best time to go

How to get there?

Required documents

Bookings and prices

Itineraries

With or without a guide?

Accommodation in Ranu Pane

On the trail – 2 days 1 night

Stage 2: Ranu Kumbolo Lake to Kalimati campsite (2-2.5h)

Day 2: Kalimati campsite – Semeru summit – Kalimati campsite – Ranu Kumbolo lake – Ranu Pane

Stage 2: Semeru summit to Ranu Pane village (6-8h)

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Climbing and Trekking Semeru in East Java

9 things to know before hiking Mt. Semeru

How to go to Tumpang and how much the transportation will cost?

From other cities :

How to go to Ranupani?

From Tumpang :

When to go to Mt. Semeru ?

How much does it cost the access to the national park?

Where to sleep?

Hiking Mt. Semeru : with or without guide?

Where to find guide and porters?

Where to find camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag)?

Where to obtain the compulsory health certificate?

5 mistakes to avoid before and during the hike and climb of Mt. Semeru

Hiking and Climbing Semeru

Hiking Map of Mt. Semeru

Starting from Tumpang

Ngadas village

Ranupani Village

Ranu Kumbolo Lake

The summit attack of Mt. Semeru

The Descent from Semeru to Ranupani

Hiking, Trekking and Climbing Semeru with “Go Volcano”

Prerequisites for Semeru hike

Semeru trekking and climbing trip 2 days 1 night

Detailed Program and Itinerary

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 2 days 1 night for solo travelers

Semeru trekking and climbing trip 3 days 2 night

Prices for hiking and trekking Semeru in 3 days 2 night

Go Volcano Tours including Semeru

Other Go Volcano tours in East Java

Personal equipment that you should bring with you

Special Requests for Event Planning in Tengger National Park Bromo Semeru

Mount Semeru or Gunung Semeru – Mahameru

The eruptions of the Mt Semeru

Map of risk prone areas of Semeru

Eruption of Semeru in 1994

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