The best months to visit Kawah Ijen are Apr – Oct. Dry season, best visibility for blue fire.
Quick facts
Altitude 2,799m (9,183ft) Active stratovolcano in East Java
Highlight Blue Fire Rare combusting sulphur gas, visible 12am–5am
Tour Cost $15–30 USD Guided night trek from Banyuwangi
Best Months Apr – Oct Dry season, best visibility for blue fire
Daily Budget ~$15–30 USD Budget traveller with trek & local food
Distance 2hrs from Banyuwangi Transfer to Paltuding trailhead at 1,850m
When to go
Electric-blue flames dancing in darkness, a turquoise acid lake, and sulphur miners carrying impossible loads from the depths of an active crater.
Getting There in Kawah Ijen
- Banyuwangi is the gateway town. From Bali: ferry from Gilimanuk to Ketapang (30 min, 8,000 IDR). From Surabaya: train (6–7hrs) or bus (6hrs). From Probolinggo (Bromo): bus (5–6hrs)
- Banyuwangi airport (BWX) has direct flights from Jakarta and Surabaya on Lion Air and Wings Air, sometimes as cheap as 300,000 IDR ($19)
- The drive from Banyuwangi to Paltuding trailhead takes 1.5 hours via winding mountain roads through coffee plantations. All tours include this transport
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Kawah Ijen travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Kawah Ijen?
The best months to visit Kawah Ijen are Apr – Oct (Dry season, best visibility for blue fire), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Kawah Ijen budget breakdown.
