One of the rising nature retreat destinations in East Java is located on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso Regency. Ijen crater with all of its attractions can’t possibly be missed or overlooked.
This crater is known to the world for its luminous Blue Flame phenomenon, the captivating Blue Lake, and its spectacular Sunrise view. Not to mention the unwavering Miners of Ijen who carry kilograms of sulfur on their backs every day, makes this crater a place full of stories.
If you already have a date in mind to visit this panoramic crater, take notes of these 5 important things before booking your flight tickets!
1.You Will be Trekking for 2 (or more) Hours
Before enjoying the view of the Blue Flame, Blue Lake, or Sunrise, you will have to walk a long and steep track for approximately 2 hours. For a first time hiker, this one activity might be a huge deal-breaker.
✧ Fortunately for the hikers, along the track, there will be 5-6 posts where you can rest and catch a breath during your expedition.
2.Navigating Steps in the Dark is a Necessity
Aside from the long and risky pathway, you will also experience walking in completely dark surroundings. This is because trekking in Ijen is done at around 2 AM to catch the blue fire that is only visible in the dark.
✧ That is why to ensure safety, travelers need to equip themselves with proper trekking gear and be accompanied by a local guide who is more familiar with the area of the Ijen crater.
3.Don’t Underestimate the Coldness of Ijen
You might think that trekking for hours will make it hotter and that’s completely true. However, Ijen’s normal temperature can reach 4°C – 6°C. Upon arrival to the camp site and the crater, the wind will be blowing strong from every direction.
✧ For your comfort, make sure to always bring and wear a windbreaker throughout the exploration—before departure, during the trek, and from the crater onward.
4.Pungent Sulfur Smell near the Blue Flame area
1.5 hours into the trekking gets you closer to witnessing the Blue Flame. When approaching the blue fire area, you might start to smell something like burnt match or rotten egg from the blue fire smoke blown by the wind.
✧ To avoid this stinging smell, make sure to bring with yourself a gas mask before departing so you can wear it when you’re getting closer to the blue fire.
5.The Blue Flame Phenomenon is Conditional, Not Guaranteed
One of the vital facts to know is that this phenomenon will not always be present to the visitors due to its natural condition. The volcanic activity and weather conditions are the important aspects to this phenomenon.
✧ Additionally, since the blue fire is only visible in the dark, you might not be able to see it if you arrived later in the morning.
6.The Blue Lake is High in Acidity
While the sight of the lake is astonishing, the water in it is actually highly acidic. Visitors are not recommended to touch the water let alone drink from it or swim in it.
✧ The reason for this is because any form of contact with the acidic water can cause chemical burn to metal poisoning.
Ready for Ijen!
Before going to the Ijen Crater to witness its natural wonders, make sure you understand the What and Why in the area to guarantee your safety and excitement during your exploration. Going on a vacation should be full of thrilling memories, not traumatic ones!
