Top 10 Volcanoes to Climb in Indonesia

Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is home to more than 130 active volcanoes, making it one of the most volcanically active countries in the world. This provides thrilling adventures for climbers and nature enthusiasts alike. Climbing these volcanoes offers not only the challenge of the ascent but also the opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the rich cultural heritage that surrounds these natural giants. Here’s a guide to some of the most magnificent volcanoes in Indonesia that are perfect for an adventurous climb.

1. Mount Rinjani, Lombok

Elevation: 3,726 meters (12,224 feet)
Best Time to Climb: April to December

Mount Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and offers a challenging yet rewarding climb. The trek takes you through lush forests, savannahs, and rugged landscapes, culminating at the stunning crater lake, Segara Anak. The view from the summit at sunrise, overlooking the neighboring islands and the turquoise lake, is simply unforgettable.

Location

Mount Rinjani is located on the island of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is part of the Rinjani-Lombok National Park and is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Lombok: The nearest airport is Lombok International Airport (LOP), which has direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Senaru or Sembalun: From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shuttle bus to either Senaru or Sembalun, the two main starting points for the Rinjani trek. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Hire a Trekking Company: It’s recommended to book a trekking package with a reputable company. They will provide transportation from your accommodation to the trailhead, guides, porters, and necessary permits.

Trekking Experience

Mount Rinjani offers a challenging yet rewarding climb that typically takes 2-4 days. The trek includes diverse terrains such as lush forests, savannahs, and rugged landscapes. One of the highlights is the stunning crater lake, Segara Anak, where you can camp and enjoy the serene surroundings. The view from the summit at sunrise, overlooking the neighboring islands and the turquoise lake, is simply unforgettable.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 3-day/2-night trek costs between $200 to $350 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, porters, camping equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides and porters, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

2. Mount Bromo, East Java

Elevation: 2,329 meters (7,641 feet)
Best Time to Climb: May to September

Mount Bromo, part of the Tengger massif, is one of the most iconic and accessible volcanoes in Indonesia. The climb is relatively easy, and the main attraction is the surreal landscape of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. The most popular time to visit is during sunrise when the golden light illuminates the surrounding volcanic peaks and the sea of sand.

Location

Mount Bromo is situated in the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia. It is one of the most iconic and accessible volcanoes in the country, known for its stunning sunrise views and unique landscape.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Surabaya or Malang: The nearest major airports are Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya and Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG) in Malang. Both cities have direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Cemoro Lawang: From Surabaya, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to Cemoro Lawang, the nearest village to Mount Bromo. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. From Malang, the travel time is approximately 2-3 hours.
3. Arrange a Jeep Tour: Most visitors take a jeep tour from Cemoro Lawang to the viewpoint at Mount Penanjakan and then to the Bromo crater. These tours can be booked through local hotels, guesthouses, or tour agencies.

Trekking Experience

Mount Bromo offers a relatively easy climb compared to other Indonesian volcanoes. The adventure typically starts with a pre-dawn jeep ride to Mount Penanjakan to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. After sunrise, the jeep takes you down to the Sea of Sand, where you can walk or ride a horse to the base of Mount Bromo. The final ascent involves climbing a set of stairs leading to the crater rim, from where you can witness the smoking crater and the vast caldera.

Prices

1. Jeep Tours: The cost of a jeep tour, which includes transportation to the viewpoint, the Sea of Sand, and Mount Bromo, ranges from $30 to $50 USD per person. Prices vary based on the number of people in the group and the tour operator.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park is approximately $25 USD for international tourists and $7 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is usually included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as horse rentals (around $10-$15 USD), accommodation in Cemoro Lawang, and meals.

3. Mount Semeru, East Java

Elevation: 3,676 meters (12,060 feet)
Best Time to Climb: May to November

Mount Semeru is the highest volcano in Java and offers a more demanding climb compared to Mount Bromo. The journey to the summit, known as Mahameru, takes you through diverse terrains, from tropical forests to barren volcanic slopes. Reaching the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the island and the sight of the crater frequently emitting ash and smoke.

Location

Mount Semeru, the highest volcano in Java, is located in East Java, Indonesia. It is part of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park and is known for its challenging climb and stunning views.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Surabaya or Malang: The nearest major airports are Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya and Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG) in Malang. Both cities have direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Ranu Pani: From Surabaya or Malang, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to the village of Ranu Pani, the main starting point for the Semeru trek. The journey from Surabaya takes about 4-5 hours, while from Malang, it takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Obtain Permits: Climbing Mount Semeru requires a permit, which can be obtained at the Ranu Pani entrance office. It’s advisable to arrange permits in advance through a trekking company or tour operator.

Trekking Experience

Mount Semeru offers a challenging and rewarding climb that typically takes 3-4 days. The trek starts from Ranu Pani village and takes you through diverse terrains, including lush forests, savannahs, and volcanic landscapes. Key highlights of the trek include:

1. Ranu Kumbolo: A beautiful lake where trekkers often camp on the first night. The sunrise over the lake is breathtaking.
2. Kalimati Base Camp: The final camp before the summit push, offering views of Semeru’s smoking crater.
3. Summit Climb: The final ascent to Mahameru (the summit) is steep and challenging, involving a pre-dawn climb on loose volcanic scree. Reaching the top rewards you with panoramic views of the island and the sight of the crater frequently emitting ash and smoke.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 3-day/2-night trek costs between $200 to $400 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, porters, camping equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides and porters, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

4. Mount Agung, Bali

Elevation: 3,031 meters (9,944 feet)
Best Time to Climb: April to October

Mount Agung is Bali’s highest point and holds significant spiritual importance for the Balinese people. The climb is steep and challenging but well worth the effort. From the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of the island, the neighboring Mount Rinjani, and the majestic sunrise over the Indian Ocean.

Location

Mount Agung is the highest point on the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is located in the northeastern part of the island and is a spiritually significant site for the Balinese people.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Denpasar: The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali. This airport has direct flights from major Indonesian cities as well as international destinations.
2. Travel to Base Camps: The two main starting points for the Mount Agung trek are Pura Besakih and Pura Pasar Agung. From Denpasar, you can hire a private car or taxi to either base camp. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: It is highly recommended to hire a local guide for the trek. Guides can be arranged through hotels, trekking companies, or at the base camps.

Trekking Experience

Mount Agung offers a challenging and rewarding climb, with steep and rugged trails leading to the summit. The trek can be completed in 1-2 days, depending on the chosen route.

1. Pura Besakih Route: This is the longer and more challenging route, starting from the Besakih Temple. It takes about 6-7 hours to reach the summit.
2. Pura Pasar Agung Route: This is the shorter and slightly easier route, starting from the Pasar Agung Temple. It takes about 4-5 hours to reach the summit.

Both routes offer stunning views of Bali and the surrounding islands. The summit climb typically starts in the early hours of the morning to reach the top by sunrise. The view from the summit, with the sun rising over the horizon and illuminating the island, is a breathtaking experience.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the route and services included. On average, a guided trek costs between $80 to $150 USD per person. This usually includes guide fees, transportation to and from the base camp, and sometimes meals.
2. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

5. Mount Kerinci, Sumatra

Elevation: 3,805 meters (12,484 feet)
Best Time to Climb: May to October

Mount Kerinci is the highest volcano in Indonesia and the highest peak in Sumatra. The climb takes you through dense rainforests, home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Sumatran tiger. The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding national park, crater lake, and, on a clear day, even the Indian Ocean.

Location

Mount Kerinci is located in the Kerinci Seblat National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia. It is the highest volcano in Indonesia and the highest peak in Sumatra, offering a challenging and exhilarating climb.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Padang: The nearest major airport is Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang, West Sumatra. This airport has direct flights from Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Kersik Tuo: From Padang, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to the village of Kersik Tuo, the main starting point for the Kerinci trek. The journey takes about 6-7 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: It is highly recommended to hire a local guide for the trek. Guides can be arranged through trekking companies, local guesthouses, or in Kersik Tuo village.

Trekking Experience

Mount Kerinci offers a strenuous and rewarding climb that typically takes 3 days and 2 nights. The trek takes you through diverse terrains, including dense rainforests, montane forests, and alpine meadows.

Day 1: The trek starts from Kersik Tuo village and takes you through tea plantations and dense rainforest to Shelter 1, where you will camp for the night.

Day 2: Continue the climb through montane forests to Shelter 3, the final camp before the summit push. This part of the trek is steeper and more challenging.

Day 3: Begin the summit climb in the early hours of the morning to reach the peak by sunrise. The final ascent is steep and involves scrambling over volcanic scree. Reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding national park, the crater lake, and on a clear day, the Indian Ocean.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 3-day/2-night trek costs between $200 to $400 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, porters, camping equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides and porters, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

6. Mount Ijen, East Java

Elevation: 2,799 meters (9,183 feet)
Best Time to Climb: April to October

Mount Ijen is famous for its striking blue flames, which are visible at night, caused by sulfuric gases igniting as they emerge from the crater. The trek to the crater rim is relatively short and can be done in a few hours. Besides the blue flames, the crater lake, filled with turquoise water, is another mesmerizing sight.

Location

Mount Ijen is located in East Java, Indonesia, near the town of Banyuwangi. It is part of the Ijen Plateau, which includes a series of volcanoes and a large caldera. Mount Ijen is famous for its striking blue flames, sulfur mines, and stunning crater lake.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Banyuwangi: The nearest airport is Banyuwangi Airport (BWX), which has direct flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. Alternatively, you can fly to Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya and then take a train or bus to Banyuwangi, which takes about 6-7 hours.
2. Travel to Paltuding: From Banyuwangi, you can hire a private car, take a taxi, or join a tour to Paltuding, the main starting point for the Ijen trek. The drive takes about 1-2 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: While not strictly necessary, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and provide safety, especially for the night trek to see the blue flames.

Trekking Experience

Mount Ijen offers a relatively short but memorable trek, with the primary attractions being the blue flames, the sulfur mine, and the turquoise crater lake.

1. Night Trek: Most visitors start the trek around midnight to reach the crater in time to see the blue flames, which are best viewed in the dark. The trek from Paltuding to the crater rim takes about 1.5-2 hours.
2. Blue Flames: The blue flames are a unique phenomenon caused by sulfuric gases igniting as they emerge from the cracks in the volcano. They are best viewed before dawn.
3. Crater Lake: After witnessing the blue flames, you can explore the crater rim and view the stunning turquoise crater lake, which is one of the most acidic lakes in the world. The contrasting colors of the lake and the surrounding sulfur deposits create a surreal landscape.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the services included. On average, a night trek to Mount Ijen costs between $50 to $100 USD per person. This usually includes transportation from Banyuwangi, guide fees, gas masks, and sometimes meals.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Ijen Crater is approximately $10 USD for international tourists and $3 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is sometimes included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

7. Mount Merbabu, Central Java

Elevation: 3,145 meters (10,318 feet)
Best Time to Climb: May to October

Mount Merbabu offers a less crowded and serene climbing experience compared to some of the more popular volcanoes. The trek takes you through picturesque meadows, pine forests, and volcanic landscapes. The summit provides panoramic views of Central Java, including the nearby Mount Merapi.

Location

Mount Merbabu is located in Central Java, Indonesia, near the cities of Magelang, Salatiga, and Boyolali. It is known for its beautiful grassy slopes, expansive views, and the relatively moderate difficulty of its trails.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Yogyakarta or Semarang: The nearest major airports are Adisucipto International Airport (JOG) in Yogyakarta and Achmad Yani International Airport (SRG) in Semarang. Both cities have direct flights from Jakarta and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Selo: From either Yogyakarta or Semarang, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to the village of Selo, which is the main starting point for the Merbabu trek. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: While it is possible to climb Mount Merbabu independently, hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and navigation, especially for first-time climbers.

Trekking Experience

Mount Merbabu offers a moderate climb with well-marked trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trek typically takes 2 days and 1 night.

Day 1: The trek starts from Selo village and takes you through farmlands and pine forests before reaching the savannah zone. The first day involves about 5-6 hours of trekking to reach the campsite at Pos 2 or Pos 3, where you will camp for the night.

Day 2: Begin the summit climb early in the morning to reach the peak by sunrise. The final ascent takes about 2-3 hours and involves trekking through grasslands and rocky paths. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Merapi, Mount Sumbing, and Mount Sindoro.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 2-day/1-night trek costs between $100 to $200 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, camping equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Mount Merbabu National Park is approximately $10 USD for international tourists and $3 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is sometimes included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

8. Mount Merapi, Central Java

Elevation: 2,930 meters (9,613 feet)
Best Time to Climb: May to September

Mount Merapi is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, with regular eruptions shaping its landscape. Despite the risks, it attracts many climbers seeking adventure. The climb is steep and challenging, but reaching the summit at sunrise, with the view of the surrounding mountains and the city of Yogyakarta below, is a thrilling experience.

Location

Mount Merapi is located on the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and offers a thrilling climbing experience with stunning views and a dynamic volcanic landscape.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Yogyakarta: The nearest major airport is Adisucipto International Airport (JOG) in Yogyakarta. This airport has direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, and other major Indonesian cities.
2. Travel to Selo: From Yogyakarta, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to the village of Selo, which is the main starting point for the Merapi trek. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: Due to the active and potentially dangerous nature of Mount Merapi, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides can be arranged through trekking companies, local guesthouses, or in Selo village.

Trekking Experience

Mount Merapi offers a challenging and exhilarating climb that typically takes 1-2 days. The trek takes you through diverse terrains, including forests, rocky slopes, and volcanic ash fields.

1. Night Trek: Most climbers start the trek around midnight to reach the summit in time for sunrise. The trek from Selo to the summit takes about 4-6 hours, depending on the pace and trail conditions.
2. Summit Ascent: The final ascent to the summit involves climbing steep and rocky paths with loose volcanic ash. This section requires good physical fitness and caution due to the loose terrain and potential volcanic activity.
3. Summit Views: From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Merbabu, the city of Yogyakarta, and the Indian Ocean. The sight of the active crater emitting smoke and occasional lava flows is a unique and awe-inspiring experience.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 1-day or 2-day trek costs between $80 to $150 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, safety equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Mount Merapi National Park is approximately $10 USD for international tourists and $3 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is sometimes included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

9. Mount Tambora, Sumbawa

Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)
Best Time to Climb: April to September

Mount Tambora, renowned for its catastrophic 1815 eruption—the most powerful in recorded history—offers climbers a journey through diverse terrains and breathtaking views. The trek takes you through diverse terrains, from rainforests to volcanic ash fields. The summit provides breathtaking views of the massive caldera and the surrounding seas.

Location

Mount Tambora is located on the island of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is famous for its massive eruption in 1815, one of the most powerful volcanic events in recorded history. Today, it offers a fascinating and rewarding climb with breathtaking views and a glimpse into volcanic geology.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Bima: The nearest airport is Sultan Muhammad Salahudin Airport (BMU) in Bima, Sumbawa. This airport has direct flights from Bali and Lombok.
2. Travel to Pancasila Village: From Bima, you can hire a private car, take a bus, or join a tour to the village of Pancasila, the main starting point for the Tambora trek. The journey takes about 4-5 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for the climb. Guides can be arranged through trekking companies, local guesthouses, or in Pancasila village.

Trekking Experience

Mount Tambora offers a challenging but rewarding climb that typically takes 3 days and 2 nights. The trek takes you through diverse terrains, including rainforests, savannahs, and volcanic landscapes.

Day 1: The trek starts from Pancasila village and takes you through dense rainforests to the first campsite, known as Pos 2. This part of the trek involves about 5-6 hours of trekking.

Day 2: Continue the climb through montane forests and savannahs to the final camp, Pos 5, located at the crater rim. This day involves about 6-7 hours of trekking and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 3: Begin the summit climb early in the morning to reach the peak by sunrise. The final ascent takes about 2-3 hours and involves trekking through volcanic ash and rocky paths. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the massive crater, the island of Sumbawa, and the surrounding sea.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the duration and services included. On average, a 3-day/2-night trek costs between $300 to $500 USD per person. This usually includes transportation, guide fees, porters, camping equipment, meals, and national park entry fees.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Mount Tambora National Park is approximately $10 USD for international tourists and $3 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is sometimes included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides and porters, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.

10. Mount Batur, Bali

Elevation: 1,717 meters (5,633 feet)
Best Time to Climb: April to September

Mount Batur, known for its active volcanic activity and breathtaking sunrise views, offers an accessible and rewarding climb. The trek takes you through scenic landscapes to the summit, where you can witness a stunning sunrise over the caldera lake and surrounding mountains.

Location

Mount Batur is located in the Kintamani district of Bali, Indonesia. It is an active volcano and a popular trekking destination known for its stunning sunrise views and scenic landscapes.

How to Get There

1. Fly to Denpasar: The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali. This airport has direct flights from major Indonesian cities as well as international destinations.
2. Travel to Toya Bungkah: From Denpasar, you can hire a private car, take a taxi, or join a tour to the village of Toya Bungkah, the main starting point for the Batur trek. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Arrange a Guide: While it is possible to climb Mount Batur independently, hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and navigation. Guides can be arranged through hotels, trekking companies, or at the starting point in Toya Bungkah.

Trekking Experience

Mount Batur offers a relatively easy and short trek, making it accessible to hikers of all levels. The main attraction is the spectacular sunrise viewed from the summit.

1. Night Trek: Most visitors start the trek around 2:00 AM to reach the summit in time for sunrise. The trek from Toya Bungkah to the summit takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace.
2. Sunrise Views: From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sunrise over the caldera lake and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Agung. The sight of the sun rising over the horizon, illuminating the clouds and the landscape, is a truly unforgettable experience.
3. Exploring the Crater: After sunrise, you can explore the volcanic craters and steam vents, and even cook eggs in the volcanic steam. The descent takes about 1-2 hours, bringing you back to Toya Bungkah.

Prices

1. Trekking Packages: Prices for guided treks vary depending on the services included. On average, a sunrise trek costs between $40 to $70 USD per person. This usually includes transportation from your accommodation, guide fees, breakfast, and sometimes a visit to the hot springs after the trek.
2. National Park Entry Fee: The entry fee for Mount Batur is approximately $20 USD for international tourists and $5 USD for Indonesian citizens. This fee is sometimes included in organized tours but may need to be paid separately if visiting independently.
3. Additional Costs: Consider extra expenses such as tips for guides, personal snacks, and any gear rental if needed.