2 Days Shared Tour from Malang to Mount Bromo and Ijen

Experience the Best of Java’s Volcanoes in Two Days

This 2-day shared tour from Malang offers an excellent way to see two of Java’s most famous volcanoes—Mount Bromo and Ijen—without needing to plan every detail yourself. For just $98.57 per person, you get the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises, hike active craters, and enjoy comfortable transport with a small group. The tour is organized by East Java Vibes and typically involves a modest group size (up to 15 travelers), making it a friendly and manageable adventure.

What makes this experience stand out are the stunning views at sunrise—particularly from King Kong Hill—plus the chance to see the spectacular turquoise lake of Ijen and its sulfur workers in action. We also appreciate the professional guidance, especially the driver, who’s often praised for their helpfulness and clear communication, even across language barriers.

A potential consideration is the long travel hours involved, especially on Day 1 when traveling from Cemorolawang to Banyuwangi (around 7-9 hours). This means you’ll want to be prepared for a full, sometimes tiring, day. But for travelers eager for an authentic, bucket-list experience, the journey is well worth it.

This tour suits those with moderate physical fitness, ready for early mornings and some hiking, in exchange for unforgettable vistas and the thrill of standing atop volcanic craters. If you love nature, adventure, and scenic landscapes, this trip will likely tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Affordable shared tour providing access to two major volcanoes in Java.
• Early morning starts with spectacular sunrise views from King Kong Hill and Ijen.
• Expert local guides and helpful drivers enhance the experience.
• Long travel hours on Day 1 are necessary due to the distance between Bromo and Ijen.
• All fees and equipment, including gas masks at Ijen, are included for peace of mind.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Mount Bromo & Ijen Tour

Day 1: From Malang to Mount Bromo

Your adventure kicks off in Malang, with a roughly 2-hour drive to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. This is the gateway to one of Indonesia’s most iconic landscapes. The journey itself is a scenic drive, but the real highlight begins at King Kong Hill, your sunrise vantage point. Be prepared for an early start—most departures are around 12:30 am—but the reward is a breathtaking view as the sun emerges behind the smoking peaks. According to a traveler review, “They do pick you up earlier so you get a good place for parking due to the traffic on Mount Bromo,” which is a smart move given how busy this spot can get.

While waiting, you can buy hot drinks at a local resto, giving you a chance to warm up amid the cool mountain air. From the top, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and Mount Semeru—a stunning skyline that’s worth every early hour. The photos you’ll take here are perfect for Instagram, but more importantly, you’ll see these volcanoes in their raw, powerful beauty.

Next, a jeep ride takes you closer to the Bromo Crater. The hike to the rim takes roughly 20-30 minutes, and once there, you can peer into the active volcano’s crater—a large, smoking hole with a big, intimidating presence. The experience of standing at the edge, watching the smoke billow, is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

After the crater visit, you’ll travel to Cemorolawang to change vehicles and then head to Banyuwangi. Be prepared for a long journey—around 7 to 9 hours—but this part of the trip, as one reviewer noted, “was very well organized,” which helps make the lengthy drive more comfortable. The night is spent in Banyuwangi, setting you up for the next early morning hike to Ijen.

Day 2: Ijen and the Blue Lake

The second day begins in the dead of night, with a depart around 00:30-1:00 am to Paltuding, the starting point for the Ijen hike. The hike takes about 2 hours, and with a local guide, you’ll trek through the cool darkness toward the famous Ijen Crater. The trek is manageable for most with moderate fitness, but be prepared for some uphill walking.

When you reach the summit, the panoramic view is mesmerizing—a turquoise crater lake contrasted against the sulfur-yellow cliffs. As one reviewer excitedly shared, “You can see the beautiful sunrise and a great view of the sulfur plateau.” The sulfur workers, with their characteristic baskets and masks, add a real-world touch to the scene, illustrating the ongoing extraction process that’s been happening for decades.

The tour provides gas masks, which are essential for the sulfur fumes. Wearing these, we could see sulfur miners working diligently—an unforgettable sight that reminds us of the human effort behind these natural wonders.

After the hike, you’ll head back, enjoy breakfast, then prepare for the trip to Ketapang port if you’re heading to Bali. This second day combines spectacular scenery with an authentic look at local industry—both elements making the trip meaningful.

The Value of Included Amenities

The tour includes breakfast, gas masks at Ijen, ferry tickets to Bali, and all fees and taxes—a package that simplifies your planning and ensures you won’t face unexpected costs. For many travelers, the inclusion of personal guides and 4WD jeeps is a real plus, offering comfort and local insight as you navigate rugged terrain.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Reviews highlight the importance of good guides—one particularly mentions Loki, the driver, as “the best tour guide ever,” who makes a genuine effort to enhance the experience despite language barriers. This kind of attentive service can make all the difference, especially during the early mornings and hikes.

The Long, But Rewarding, Travel

While the distance and timing can be challenging—especially on Day 1—the payoff is significant. The chance to see two of Java’s most iconic volcanoes in one trip is rare, and the views, sunrise, and volcanic activity are unforgettable. The long drives also mean you’re seeing more of Java’s countryside and small towns, giving a glimpse into local life outside tourist hotspots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves scenic vistas, early mornings, and adventure hikes, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers with moderate fitness, willing to handle some long hours on the road, but eager to see active volcanoes and experience authentic local scenes. The small group size and well-organized logistics mean you’ll enjoy a personal touch, even amid the early starts and long drives.

People who value guidance and safety, especially at Ijen with its sulfur fumes, will find this tour reassuring. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling from Malang and want a cost-effective way to visit both Bromo and Ijen without worrying about planning every detail.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day shared tour offers a solid balance of adventure, comfort, and value. You’ll see spectacular sunrises, witness the power of active volcanoes, and experience local industry firsthand. While the long travel hours may test your patience, the stunning sights and authentic moments more than compensate.

For travelers looking for a well-organized trip with experienced guides and inclusive amenities, this tour provides a memorable way to explore Java’s volcanic heart. It’s a fantastic choice for those who don’t mind early mornings and want to maximize their time in Indonesia’s most dramatic landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most of the hiking, especially at Ijen, is manageable with moderate fitness. The tour advises a moderate physical fitness level because of the early start and some uphill walking.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers breakfast, gas masks for Ijen, ferry tickets to Bali, 4WD jeeps, one night’s accommodation, and all fees and taxes. Guides and transport are also included.

How early do we need to start?
The tour starts around 12:30 am, so be prepared for an early wake-up call. This early start is crucial for catching the sunrise and avoiding crowds.

Are the guides helpful?
Yes, reviews mention knowledgeable guides and helpful drivers, like Loki, who go out of their way to make the trip enjoyable and safe.

What about the long drive on Day 1?
The journey from Cemorolawang to Banyuwangi takes around 7-9 hours, but is considered well-organized. It’s worth it for the views and experiences along the way.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

In all, this tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight, perfect for travelers eager to tick two of Java’s most iconic volcanoes off their bucket list. Whether you’re a sunrise chaser or a volcano enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love in this carefully curated two-day experience.