When people think about Ijen, they usually picture the famous blue fire, stunning sunrise views, and the challenging hike to the crater. But there’s another side of Ijen that many travelers don’t know about—Ijen Rijig.

More than just a clean-up event, Ijen Rijig is a monthly community movement that shows how local people, tourism workers, and volunteers work together to protect one of Indonesia’s most iconic natural destinations.

So, What Is Ijen Rijig?

The word “rijig” comes from the local Osing language that means to clean or to tidy up. That simple meaning perfectly captures what the event is all about.

On the first Friday of every month, the hiking trail to Ijen is temporarily closed. Instead of welcoming tourists, the mountain welcomes hundreds of volunteers carrying trash bags, brooms, and gardening tools. Together, they clean the hiking trail, collect litter, repair small sections of the path, and help keep the area safe and beautiful.

It’s basically a day where nature gets a little break—and everyone gathers together to give something back.

Why Is It Important?

Ijen attracts thousands of visitors every year. While tourism brings many benefits to the local community, it also creates challenges.

Plastic bottles, food wrappers, cigarette butts, and other waste can easily end up along the trail if visitors aren’t careful. Over time, this doesn’t just affect the scenery—it can also impact wildlife, water sources, and the overall hiking experience.

That’s why Ijen Rijig exists.

The event reminds everyone that protecting nature isn’t just the responsibility of park rangers. Visitors, guides, local businesses, and the community all have a role to play.

More Than Just Picking Up Trash

Although cleaning the trail is the main activity, Ijen Rijig is about something much bigger.

It reflects the Indonesian value of gotong royong, or mutual cooperation. People from different backgrounds come together with one shared goal: taking care of the mountain that supports both the environment and the local economy.

You’ll often see local residents, tour guides, students, government officials, conservation groups, and tourism operators working side by side. It’s a simple but meaningful reminder that small actions can make a big difference when everyone works together.

What Does This Mean for Visitors?

If you’re planning to visit Ijen, it’s worth checking the schedule before booking your trip.

Since the crater is closed on the first Friday of every month for Ijen Rijig, visitors won’t be able to hike on that day. While it may seem inconvenient at first, the closure helps ensure that the trail stays clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone throughout the rest of the month.

It’s also a great example of sustainable tourism in action—putting conservation first, even if it means pausing tourism for a day.

How You Can Help

Even if you’re not visiting during Ijen Rijig, you can still support the same mission.

Here are a few easy ways to help:

  • Take all of your trash back down the mountain.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle instead of buying disposable plastic bottles.
  • Stay on the designated hiking trail.
  • Respect the environment and wildlife.
  • Follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Leave Ijen just as beautiful as you found it.

These small habits help preserve the mountain for future visitors and for the people who call the area home.

Explore Banyuwangi While You Wait!

If you’re visiting during Ijen Rijig, don’t let the temporary closure stop your adventure. Take the opportunity to explore more of Banyuwangi! 

Wander through the enchanting Djawatan Forest or unwind at Pulau Merah Beach. Then, when Ijen Crater reopens the next day, you’ll be ready to continue your journey with a deeper appreciation for the community’s efforts to keep this incredible destination clean and beautiful.

Reach out to BromoVacation.com for a personalized Banyuwangi exploration itinerary!