Mount Ijen Bromo Tour from Ubud Bali (3 days 2 nights)

Experience the Mysteries of Java’s Volcanoes in Just 3 Days from Ubud

Imagine leaving Bali’s lush rice terraces behind and stepping into a landscape carved by fire and sulfur. This Mount Ijen Bromo Tour from Ubud offers a well-structured journey through Indonesia’s volcanic heart, with 3 days and 2 nights of unforgettable scenery and adventure. Priced at around $420.98 per person, this package promises both ease and excitement, with all logistics handled by local guides.

What we love about this tour? First, the carefree nature of having transport, accommodations, and activities arranged for us means less planning stress and more time soaking in the sights. Second, the opportunity to witness iconic sights like Ijen’s blue fire and Bromo’s sunrise — truly jaw-dropping moments that make you feel like you’ve traveled to a different world.

One consideration? The long travel hours — the drive from Ubud to Bali’s ferry port and then onward to Java is quite extensive, so patience and good prep are wise. Also, since some attractions are weather- or activity-dependent (like Ijen’s sulfur gases), flexibility is key.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who love natural beauty and don’t mind a bit of a journey. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to experience Java’s volcanoes without the hassle of planning, and you’re okay with early mornings and long drives, this will be a great fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Accommodation, transport, guides, and ferry are included, reducing planning stress.
• Unique sights: Witness Ijen’s blue fire and Bromo’s sunrise, two of Java’s most striking natural phenomena.
• Guided ease: Knowledgeable guides handle navigation and logistics, letting you focus on the views.
• Physical activity: Expect moderate hiking—particularly the ascent of Ijen and Bromo — so a reasonable fitness level helps.
• Authentic experience: Travel through local towns, enjoy Indonesian cuisine, and stay overnight in regional accommodations.
• Flexible return options: End your trip in Surabaya, with options to return to Bali for an extra fee.

A Deep Dive into the Three-Day Journey

Day 1: Bali to Banyuwangi – Setting the Stage for Adventure

Your adventure begins early morning in Ubud, with a pickup around 8:00 AM. The drive to Gilimanuk Ferry Port takes about 4-5 hours — a good chance to get a sense of Bali’s diverse landscapes. The ferry crossing to Java lasts around an hour, and for many, the transition from Bali’s tropical calm to Java’s volcanic terrain is a visual treat.

Once on Java, you’ll enjoy a local lunch before heading to your hotel in Banyuwangi. This town serves as your base before the early morning trek to Ijen. The hotel stay offers a welcome chance to relax, perhaps reflect on the upcoming adventure, and prepare for the midnight hike.

Day 2: Conquering Ijen’s Blue Fire

The highlight of this trip is the Ijen Crater — famed for its surreal blue fire and sulfuric landscape. Departing around 1:00 AM, you’ll ascend about an hour to the Paltuding trailhead. The hike of 1.5 to 2 hours to the crater’s rim is moderate but can be challenging in the dark and cold.

What makes Ijen so special? The glowing blue flames are caused by sulfuric gases igniting, visible only in the dark, and after sunrise, the crater’s vast turquoise lake makes for spectacular photos. Guides emphasize safety: gas masks are provided, and you’ll be instructed to follow designated paths closely. Several reviews mentioned that despite the danger, the guides’ professionalism reassures travelers, with one noting the experience was “wonderful” even when Ijen was temporarily closed due to seismic activity.

Tip: Bring warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and your camera — early morning shoots are prime. Remember, you’ll be returning directly to Bromo afterward, so pack light.

Day 3: Witnessing the Bromo Sunrise and Return

Early again, at approximately 3:30 AM, the focus shifts to Mount Bromo. Riding in a jeep over bumpy, volcanic terrain, you’ll reach the sunrise point — Kangkung Hill — just before dawn. The 5:20 AM sunrise delivers a panoramic view of several volcanoes including Mount Semeru and Mount Batok, framed by the Sea of Sand and a vast sky.

The scene is undeniably photogenic: the early light illuminates the volcanic landscape in warm hues, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for photos. After sunrise, you’ll explore the Sea of Sand, where the jeep can take you close to the Bromo crater, followed by a trek for those who want a closer look.

This part of the tour is highly praised, with reviewers like Stefano calling it “a beautiful experience,” highlighting the magnificent views and the timing that captures the landscape at its most dramatic.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want to see two of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes without the hassle of logistics. The group discounts and private guides provide a good balance of personalized service and value. Travelers who enjoy early mornings and physical activity will find the hikes rewarding, especially with guides ensuring safety and sharing insights along the way.

The inclusive nature of the tour — covering ferry, accommodation, and transportation — makes it appealing for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer a structured itinerary. It’s also suitable for first-timers looking for a manageable yet adventurous way to explore Java’s volcanic landscape.

Real Experiences, Real Impressions

One traveler shared: “Although Mount Ijen was closed due to seismic activity, we saw wonderful places and appreciated the friendliness and kindness of our guides.” This highlights the personal touch and flexibility of the tour, ensuring you still get a memorable experience even if conditions change.

Another noted, “The sunrise at Bromo is so special because you see four volcanoes and the village in one frame,” emphasizing the visual magic of this trip. The professional guidance and well-organized logistics seem to be a common theme among satisfied customers, making this tour a reliable choice.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation: For the entire trip, you’ll be chauffeured in private, air-conditioned vehicles — crucial for comfort during long drives. The ferry from Bali to Java is included, and the jeep for Mount Bromo is part of the package.

Accommodation: One night in Banyuwangi and one in Mount Bromo area offers a convenient base for the early morning excursions. The stay provides comfort and a chance to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Guides: English-speaking guides accompany your journey, providing safety, explanations, and local insights. Their presence is especially valuable during the challenging hikes and at the volcanoes’ viewpoints.

Pricing and Value: At just under $430, this package provides a lot of value, covering transport, guides, accommodations, and some meals. However, entrance tickets for Ijen and Bromo are not included, so budget accordingly.

Timing: The early departures, starting around 8:00 AM from Ubud and waking up at 1:00 AM for Ijen, mean you need to be prepared for early mornings. The whole experience is about maximizing the best light and weather conditions for the volcano views.

Physical Fitness: The tour recommends a moderate level of fitness, as you’ll be hiking and walking on uneven terrain in the dark and at elevation.

The Sum Up

If you’re eager to see Java’s volcanic wonders with minimal fuss, this 3-day Ubud to Ijen and Bromo tour offers an excellent blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic natural beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided convenience and want to experience world-famous sights like Ijen’s blue fire and Bromo’s sunrise without the stress of planning every detail.

The tour’s emphasis on stunning scenery and professional guidance ensures you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories and plenty of incredible photos. While the long travel hours might test your patience, the payoff — dramatic landscapes, unique geological features, and the thrill of early morning hikes — makes it worthwhile.

This experience is perfect for adventurous, nature-loving travelers who don’t mind waking early and are ready for a journey into Indonesia’s volcanic core. The balance of comforts and raw natural beauty makes it a compelling choice for those seeking one of Java’s most memorable adventures.

FAQs

How long does the drive from Ubud to Bali’s ferry port take?
The drive takes about 4-5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy Bali’s scenery before crossing to Java.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals during the trip (lunch and dinner) are not included, but breakfast is provided on Day 2 and Day 3.

What should I bring for the Ijen hike?
Bring warm clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, and your own luggage if you’re continuing to Bromo afterward.

Is the blue fire at Ijen visible now?
Yes, the blue fire is now open to the public and can be seen from about 500 meters away for safety reasons, as per recent updates.

Can I go back to Bali after the tour?
Yes, but there is an additional cost (850,000 IDR) for transfer back to Bali — please inform the organizers in advance.

What is the maximum physical effort required?
The hikes involve moderate exertion, especially the ascent to Ijen’s crater rim and Bromo’s viewpoints.

Are guides available throughout the trip?
Yes, private English-speaking guides accompany you during all significant parts of the tour.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, clear weather is ideal for sightseeing, so consider avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
With moderate hikes and early mornings, it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable fitness level but can be adapted for families if prepared.

This 3-day tour offers a fantastic window into Indonesia’s volcanic wonderland — a memorable, well-organized way to experience Java’s most dramatic natural sights.