From Sunrise to Sunset: What to Do in Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is said to be one of the most beautiful natural sights of the world. (Burufly Photo).

There are only a few areas on Indonesia’s Java island that remain untouched and unspoiled. Mount Bromo, located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, is definitely one of those places.

Mount Bromo, an active volcano in East Java, is said to be one of the most beautiful natural sights of the world. Easily accessible to potential visitors, thousands of tourists from all over the world come together to enjoy the striking landscape and wondrous sights at the active volcano every day.

Are you planning to visit Bromo, soon? If so, here are five must-do activities while you’re there:

Watch the sunrise

This is the main reason people come to Bromo. As the night begins to fade and the sun’s light slowly unveils the sights of striking mountains and volcanic peaks, the magical beauty and splendor of the view is truly unforgettable.

There are two best places to see the striking vista: Penanjakan 1 viewpoint and the less touristy Penanjakan 2 viewpoint. You can rent a jeep to take you to these points or, if you’re feeling adventurous, leave just after midnight and hike along the volcano by foot to slowly see the night turn into light.

if you’re feeling adventurous, hike along the volcano to see the night turn into light. (Burufly Photo)

Climb the Bromo Crater

After walking or horse-riding through the plain, one must visit the crater of Bromo. To reach the top of the crater you have to climb a steep ascension of  245 stairs. It’s a bit of a hassle as you have to walk them alongside hundreds of others, in addition to the fact that one can barely see the stairs as they are covered almost completely by volcanic ash.

The challenge is worth it, however, as the experience and the views are truly worth the climb. The descent is much easier as from the top of the crater, you can head down to the plain quickly by going down the sandy slope.

Drive on the Sea of Sand

Those who love to add some road warrior-like adventure to their trip should surely try this challenge. Hire a jeep and politely ask your chauffeur to let you drive the car. With the four-wheeler in your control, you can drive through the thick and tricky sea of sand and feel invincible as you look upon the dunes with their moon-like appearance.

Hire a jeep and drive on the Sea of Sand in Mount Bromo. (Burufly Photo).

Join the Kasada ritual

Though small in number, the Tengger Hindu community still holds an annual event called ‘Yadnya Kasada.’ The ritual starts with dance performances in Ngadisari village. Before midnight, dozens of shamans gather in the Luhur Poten Shrine to bless the offerings. Later, the Tenggerese flock to the top of Mount Bromo and throw those offerings into the crater and pray for prosperity and safety. Watching the whole process makes you feel a part of this unique aspect of Javanese culture.

Picnic overlooking the savanna

End a fun-filled day with a relaxing, sunset picnic with the best views of nature on the other side of Bromo. Located across the Sea of Sand on the southern side of the mountain, you can marvel at the vast savanna and take in the natural tranquility of offered by the location. Lie down, relax, and enjoy the nature around you on your own or with loved ones or close friends.

Burufly