The Turquoise Crater Lake Above the Clouds

#indonesiatrip Mount Ijen, also known as Kawah Ijen, is one of East Java’s most iconic volcanic landscapes — famous for its bright turquoise acidic lake, dramatic cliffs, and the rare sight of sulphur miners working around the crater. This surreal combination of beauty and raw volcanic energy makes Mount Ijen one of Indonesia’s most unforgettable sunrise hikes. ⸻ 📍 Where is Mount Ijen? Mount Ijen sits in East Java, near the towns of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso. Most travelers choose Banyuwangi because it’s closer and has better accommodation options. ⸻ 🚗 How to Get to Mount Ijen From Banyuwangi (easiest option): • Travel time: 1.5–2 hours • Hire a private driver or join a tour (very common) • Your trip will take you to Paltuding Post, the official starting point of the Mount Ijen hike. From Bali: • Take a ferry from Gilimanuk Port (Bali) → Ketapang Port (Java) (approx. 45 mins) • Then drive 1.5–2 hours to Paltuding Post. ⸻ ⏰ Visiting Hours Mount Ijen is technically open 24 hours, but: • Night hiking requires a guide due to sulphur gas safety. • Most visitors start climbing between 12:30 AM – 2:00 AM to catch the sunrise. ⸻ 🌤 Best Time to Visit The best time for Mount Ijen: • Dry season: April — October • Clear skies usually appear around June–August • Sunrise gives the most magical light over the turquoise lake. Avoid midday if possible — the sulphur smoke becomes stronger and can block the view. ⸻ 🥾 Mount Ijen Hike Difficulty & Duration Distance: 3 km each way Elevation gain: ~500m Difficulty: Moderate — steep slopes + volcanic terrain Total hiking time: • 1.5–2 hours up • 1 hour down • Plus time for photos & viewing Total recommended duration at Mount Ijen: ➡️ 4–5 hours If doing a full tour from Banyuwangi hotel: ➡️ Around 8 hours round trip ⸻ 🌋 What You Will See at Mount Ijen ✨ 1. Sunrise over the mountains Golden light slowly revealing the ridge and volcanic slopes. ✨ 2. The famous turquoise crater lake One of the world’s largest acidic lakes, glowing a bright blue-green colour when the sun hits the surface. ✨ 3. Sulphur miners You may see miners carrying 70–90kg of sulphur from the crater — a humbling and emotional part of the Mount Ijen experience. ✨ 4. Rough volcanic textures Solidified sulphur, lava rocks, and steam vents create dramatic, almost alien-looking scenery. ⸻ 📝 Important Tips for Mount Ijen • Wear proper hiking shoes • Bring a gas mask or respirator (guides provide them) • Bring a jacket — cold at night, hot after sunrise • Stay away from thick sulphur smoke • Follow your guide if attempting to go near the crater • Respect and give way to the miners • Keep your phone & camera ready — the views change