Bromo Mountain, often known as Mount Bromo, is a famous location for adventurous travelers in Indonesia. This active volcano in East Java is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, which also features Mount Semeru, Java's highest peak. Bromo Mountain is well-known for its breathtaking sunrise views, surreal scenery of volcanic craters and sand seas, and rich culture and history.
If you are planning a vacation to Bromo Mountain, here are some pointers and information to help you make the most of your time there.
What is the best way to get there?
There are multiple ways to get to Bromo Mountain from various Java cities. Surabaya, the capital of East Java, is about a 4-hour drive away and has the nearest airport. You can alternatively take a rail or bus to Probolinggo, a town at the mountain's base that is about 2 hours distant. You can hire a vehicle or a motorbike from there to get to Cemoro Lawang, the main village near Bromo Mountain.
You can also join a trip from Surabaya, Malang, Yogyakarta, or Bali, which will arrange everything for you, including transportation, lodging, and admission costs.
When it's time to go?
The dry season, which lasts from April to October, is the greatest time to visit Bromo Mountain. The weather is more consistent and clear, giving you a higher opportunity of watching the dawn and enjoying the scenery. This is, however, peak season, so expect more crowds and more prices.
From November through March, the rainy season brings heavier clouds and fog, which can obstruct views. However, this is a calmer and less expensive time to visit, and you can still appreciate the grandeur of Bromo Mountain provided the weather cooperates.
What should you do?
The main draw of Bromo Mountain is witnessing the sunrise from one of the crater rim overlooks. Penanjakan 1, the most popular, provides a panoramic view of the mountain and surrounding environment. However, it can get very busy and cold in the morning, so explore other possibilities such as Penanjakan 2 or King Kong Hill.
After viewing the sunrise, descend to the crater floor to explore the sand sea and volcanic craters. You can walk or ride a horse to the base of Bromo Mountain, where you can ascend a flight of stairs to the crater rim. Other neighboring sights include Mount Batok, Savanna Hill, and Teletubbies Hill.
Another attraction of visiting Bromo Mountain is learning about the culture and history of the Tenggerese people who reside in the surrounding villages. They are descended from the ancient Majapahit kingdom and practice a distinctive blend of Hinduism and animism. They hold an annual ceremony called Yadnya Kasada, which involves throwing sacrifices into Bromo Mountain's crater to please the gods.
Where should you stay?
There are a variety of lodging alternatives near Bromo Mountain, ranging from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels. Cemoro Lawang, which is adjacent to the entrance gate and the vistas, is the most convenient spot to stay. During high season, however, it can be noisy and busy.
Ngadisari is another option that is a little further away but quieter and more scenic. If you choose to remain at a lower altitude, you can also locate several homestays and hotels in Probolinggo or Sukapura.
What should we bring?
Bromo Mountain is located at an elevation of around 2300 meters above sea level, therefore it can get very cold at night and early in the morning. During the winter, temperatures might fall below 10 degrees Celsius or even lower. As a result, bring warm clothing such as coats, sweaters, gloves, and hats.
You should also bring a flashlight or a headlamp in case you need to walk in the dark before morning. A mask or scarf can help shield you from the dust and sulfur odors emitted by the craters. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection of your skin and eyes.
Finally, remember to bring your camera and tripod to record the breathtaking views of Bromo Mountain!












