Plan your visit

Plan your Hike

Prepare for freezing temperatures, steep trails, and toxic sulfur smoke. Review the latest health rules and transport options.

Ijen Crater

Tamansari, Licin, Banyuwangi Regency

GPS -8.058, 114.242

Open directions

Getting there

Getting to Paltuding basecamp.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Car: Drive or hire a private vehicle/taxi from Banyuwangi directly up to Paltuding basecamp.	1 to 1.5 hours		Motorbike taxis (ojeks) and shared tour vans are also available from Banyuwangi.
Tour: Book an overnight excursion from Bali, crossing by ferry from Gilimanuk to Ketapang, followed by a transfer to the basecamp and a guided night hike.	5 to 8 hours transit each way	$75 - $150+	Guided tour packages generally cover ferry tickets, vehicle transfers, gas masks, and the park entrance fee.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The best time to visit is the dry season from April to October. The path is less slippery and visibility is clearer. The gate opens for night hikers at 2:00 AM.

What to bring

High-quality respirator or gas mask (can also be rented at basecamp)
Headlamp or strong flashlight for the pitch-black night hike
Warm jacket and layers (temperatures can be near freezing before sunrise)
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip for steep and rocky terrain
Protective eyewear or goggles to shield eyes from irritating sulfur smoke
Gloves for warmth and for gripping rocks during the crater descent
Personal medications and an asthma inhaler if you have sensitive airways
Plenty of drinking water and small snacks for energy

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The park closes periodically for environmental recovery (often one day a month).

This closure allows for environmental recovery.

How the day runs

Typical hike timelines.

A standard itinerary starting from East Java.

00:30
Pickup
Drive from Banyuwangi to Paltuding basecamp.
01:30
Health Check
Present your e-ticket and health certificate at the gate.
02:00
Start Ascent
The gate opens. Hike 3.5 kilometers up the trail.
04:00
Crater Interior
Descend to the vents to see the blue fire.
05:00
Sunrise View
Return to the crater rim to watch the sunrise.
07:00
Descent
Hike back down to the basecamp parking lot.

Health and Safety Rules

You must present an official medical health certificate to enter. Bring a high-quality gas mask to protect against sulfur dioxide fumes. Swimming in the acidic lake is strictly prohibited.

The trail is demanding. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. The temperature drops near freezing before sunrise, so wear warm layers. Use a headlamp to keep your hands free on the steep rocky sections.

Easiest way to do it

Group of friends cheering at the edge of a stunning turquoise crater lake.

Ijen Blue Fire Tour from Banyuwangi

10 h 4.9 (83)

Bottled water
Fuel and parking ticket included
Entrance ticket
Fried banana

From$25per person

Viator$25 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

What should I pack for Kawah Ijen?

Bring a gas mask, headlamp, warm jacket, sturdy boots, and protective eyewear. Carry plenty of water and snacks.

How hard is the hike?

The hike is a steep 3.5-kilometer climb gaining 600 meters. The descent into the crater is narrow and rocky.

Can I rent gear at the basecamp?

Yes. Small stalls at Paltuding rent gas masks, flashlights, and warm coats.