04Experiences

Above the volcanoes

Sunrise from a crater rim

Indonesia is a land of volcanoes, and climbing one before dawn is among the memories travelers keep longest. In East Java, the Bromo outing starts in the dark: from Cemoro Lawang village you climb to the Penanjakan viewpoint at 2,770 meters—about two hours on foot—and wait in cold and mist until the sun appears behind Bromo’s crater, with Mount Semeru smoking on the horizon. Then you descend to the Sea of Sand and climb to the crater rim. For a longer adventure, Mount Rinjani on Lombok, at 3,726 meters, is a two- or three-day climb with a night in a tent on the crater edge overlooking Segara Anak Lake. In both cases: pack warm clothes, proper shoes, and a headlamp; hire a local guide; and check volcanic activity before you go. You do not need mountaineering experience for Bromo—the path to the crater is relatively short—while Rinjani needs good fitness, advance preparation, and extra days in your schedule.

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Height of Bromo

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Height of Rinjani