Located in East Java, Banyuwangi’s guided tours center on the magnificent Ijen Crater, home to the famous electric-blue flames. Most tours operate like clockwork: you’re picked up in the dark (around 1 AM), hike up with safety gear, and catch both the blue fire and sunrise – all for about $37.
The best tours stand out by providing excellent English-speaking guides who explain the sulfur mining tradition and volcanic science. I’m particularly fond of the small-group experiences that include proper safety equipment and thoughtful rest stops during the climb.
Back-to-back tours can make the crater busy, but morning departures offer the most rewarding experience. For safety and enrichment, guided tours are the way to go – independent hiking isn’t recommended.
Let’s explore the top-rated Ijen Crater tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Ijen Crater Blue Fire Tours offer a unique opportunity to witness stunning blue flames at an affordable price of $38 per person.
- Mt Ijen Hike, Blue Fire & Panoramic Lake Tour provides a 9-hour experience with pre-dawn departure and experienced guides for $37.24 per person.
- Local Guide Experience at Mt Ijen offers a more immersive 10-hour tour with insight into local miners’ lives for $41.96 per person.
- Guided Tour with Local Guide showcases the active volcano and sulfur mine for SEK 509 per person, with early 2 AM departure.
- Mount Ijen Midnight Blue Fire Guided Tour, priced from Kč 851 per person, features the blue fire phenomenon and sunrise viewing.
Guided Tour to Ijen Crater Blue Fire
What can visitors expect on the guided tour to the Ijen Crater Blue Fire? The tour offers an opportunity to witness the stunning and otherworldly blue flames emanating from the Ijen Crater in Banyuwangi, Indonesia.
Priced from $38 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, pickup and drop-off from accommodations, entry fees, and necessary equipment like gas masks and headlamps. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, and a health certificate is required for the ascent to 3,500 meters.
Travelers can expect to be provided with warm clothing and meals during the experience. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, which can be a hotel, homestay, or the Banyuwangi City Train Station.
While the reviews are generally positive, concerns have been raised about overcrowding and environmental issues, underscoring the importance of responsible tourism practices. The Ijen Crater Blue Fire tour offers a unique and memorable adventure for those with a moderate level of physical fitness.
Read our full review: Guided Tour to Ijen Crater Blue Fire Review
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Banyuwangi : Mt Ijen Hike, Blue Fire & Panoramic Lake Guided
For those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Banyuwangi, the guided tour to Mt. Ijen, Blue Fire, and Panoramic Lake is a must-try experience. Priced at $37.24 per person, this 9-hour tour offers a mesmerizing journey, with pickup from various locations in the area.
The tour begins with a pre-dawn departure, reaching the Ijen parking area by 1:30 AM. After a briefing, hikers embark on a trek, arriving at the summit by 3:00 AM. The highlight is the descent into the crater, where the famed blue fire phenomenon and turquoise lake await. As the sun rises, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.
With an experienced, English-speaking guide, the tour ensures safety and provides essential equipment, including gas masks and headlamps. Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s environmental responsibility.
This adventure isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as moderate fitness is required.
Read our full review: Banyuwangi : Mt Ijen Hike, Blue Fire & Panoramic Lake Guided Review
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Banyuwangi: Mt Ijen, Blue Fire & Panoramic With Local Guide
Though the Banyuwangi: Mt Ijen, Blue Fire & Panoramic with Local Guide tour may come at a slightly higher price point of $41.96 per person, the immersive 10-hour experience promises an unforgettable journey.
Departing from Banyuwangi city at 00:05, the tour takes participants on a trek to witness the mesmerizing blue flames within the Ijen crater, followed by a sunrise view from the summit.
Along the way, an experienced English-speaking guide provides insight into the lives of local miners. The tour includes pickup and drop-off service, entry fees, safety equipment, and a health certificate.
While meals and tips aren’t provided, the tour’s inclusions make it a comprehensive option for exploring the natural wonders of Mount Ijen.
With a minimum of 2 participants required for the discounted rate, the tour offers a chance to experience Banyuwangi’s stunning landscapes alongside fellow adventurers.
Flexible cancellation policies further enhance the appeal of this guided excursion.
Read our full review: Banyuwangi: Mt Ijen, Blue Fire & Panoramic With Local Guide Review
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Banyuwangi: Beautiful of Ijen Crater With Local Guide
Exploring the breathtaking Ijen Crater with a knowledgeable local guide promises an unforgettable adventure in Banyuwangi. The tour offers a comprehensive experience, beginning with an early 00:05 departure from Banyuwangi City to the Ijen parking area.
After a briefing and rest, the ascent starts at 2:00 AM, leading guests to witness the unique blue fire phenomenon, as well as the stunning sunrise over the crater’s panoramic lake views.
The tour highlights include exploring the active volcano’s crater, which doubles as a sulfur mine, and enjoying the nature’s spectacular scenery.
Priced at SEK 509 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with inclusions such as pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, entry fees, and essential equipment like headlamps and gas masks.
Guests can take advantage of the flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, the tour isn’t recommended for certain groups, such as pregnant women and individuals with back problems.
Read our full review: Banyuwangi: Beautiful of Ijen Crater With Local Guide Review
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Banyuwangi : Mt Ijen With Tour Guide and Transfer Service
The Mount Ijen tour with guide and transfer service in Banyuwangi provides an immersive opportunity to witness the stunning blue flames and picturesque sunrise over the crater’s dramatic landscape.
Priced from £33.33 per person, the 10-hour tour includes an experienced English-speaking guide, transportation, and essential equipment like headlamps and gas masks.
Participants depart Banyuwangi city at 00:05 AM, arriving at the Paltuding trailhead by 2:00 AM to begin the hike. After a medical check-up, the ascent to the crater’s rim rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of the vibrant blue flames and a spectacular sunrise.
The tour also showcases the serene Ijen crater lake before the return journey to Banyuwangi by 9:00 AM.
While not suitable for certain groups, the tour’s 4.7/5 rating and positive customer feedback highlight its organization and engaging guides, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Banyuwangi.
Read our full review: Banyuwangi : Mt Ijen With Tour Guide and Transfer Service Review
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Banyuwangi/Bali: Mount Ijen Midnight Blue Fire Guided Tour
Mount Ijen’s mesmerizing blue flames and breathtaking sunrise draw visitors to Banyuwangi and nearby Bali. The Mount Ijen Midnight Blue Fire Guided Tour offers an unforgettable experience, with a price from Kč 851 per person and a duration of 9 to 20 hours.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from various locations, as well as an expert local guide to assist throughout the journey. Hikers start the trek at 2 AM, reaching the summit by 3 AM and descending into the crater to witness the stunning blue flames.
After a coffee break and enjoying the sunrise, the group returns to the parking area by 9 AM. While the crater descent is subject to safety conditions, the tour provides safety measures like gas masks and headlamps.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 291 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, enhancing the experience. However, blue fire visibility isn’t guaranteed, and the mountain is closed on the first Friday of each month.
Read our full review: Banyuwangi/Bali: Mount Ijen Midnight Blue Fire Guided Tour Review
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From Banyuwangi: Day Trip to Ijen Volcano With Guided Trek
This day trip from Banyuwangi takes travelers on a guided exploration of the magnificent Ijen Volcano. Priced from $129.37 per person, the 8-hour tour includes hotel/station pickups, air-conditioned transport, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include the volcano’s turquoise acid lake, mesmerizing blue flames, and breathtaking sunrise views. The guided trek through Ijen lasts around 5 hours, and a moderate fitness level is recommended. Participants will receive a flashlight and gas mask to navigate the active volcanic environment safely.
While the famous blue flames are currently unavailable, the tour still offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Ijen’s natural wonders. With free cancellation and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this day trip is a convenient and flexible choice for exploring Banyuwangi’s geological marvels.
Traveler reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, making this a top-rated experience not to be missed.
Read our full review: From Banyuwangi: Day Trip to Ijen Volcano With Guided Trek Review
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The Sum Up
Banyuwangi offers a variety of guided tours to explore the stunning Ijen Crater and its mesmerizing blue fire. These tours provide a convenient and informative way for visitors to experience the natural wonders of the region. With knowledgeable local guides, travelers can enjoy a seamless and unforgettable journey to the Ijen Crater and its surrounding attractions.