Sometimes, the most memorable destinations are the ones we stumble upon when we’re just trying to escape the daily grind. Like last weekend, when my friends and I decided on a spontaneous road trip to Bondowoso.
With no solid plan, we just wanted to “greet nature.” And somehow, our journey led us to a place I had never even heard of before: Air Terjun Gentongan (Gentongan Waterfall).
At first, we thought it was just another regular waterfall—cool enough for some quick photos and maybe a bit of splashing around. But Gentongan turned out to be far from ordinary. This waterfall is unique, full of geological stories, and… acidic. Yep, literally acidic.
Heading to Gentongan: A Quiet Road to a Hidden Paradise
Our trip began in downtown Bondowoso. Gentongan Waterfall is located in Kalianyar Village, Ijen District, Bondowoso Regency. This unique waterfall lies quite far from residential areas, so it takes extra effort to get there.
The waterfall is tucked away inside a coffee plantation owned by PTPN XII, specifically in the Watu Capil sector of Blawan Plantation. From the city center, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on road conditions.
The journey gets more challenging once you enter the plantation area. Smooth asphalt turns into dusty, rocky dirt roads. But this is where the real adventure begins! Lush green coffee fields and towering trees line both sides of the road, offering calming views. The air grows cooler as the route climbs along the slopes of Mount Ijen—so make sure to wear something warm to keep from catching a chill.
We made a few pit stops just to soak in the fresh air and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Midway through, a small sign reading “Air Terjun Gentongan” pointed us to a narrow path. And that’s when the real adventure began.
Savoring the Natural “Layer Cake” Beauty
As soon as we arrived, the roar of cascading water greeted us. We descended a few steps and—wow—the view in front of us made every bump in the road worth it. The waterfall towered between striking cliffs that looked like they had been layered by nature itself.
The cliff walls are formed by stacked volcanic rock layers, resembling a giant slice of lapis legit, or Indonesian layer cake. That’s why locals affectionately call it the “Layer Cake” Waterfall of Gentongan.
But it’s not just the cliffs that are stunning. The water itself is a surreal blue-green color, with foamy white swirls at the bottom. And then there’s the unmistakable smell—sulfur.
Since Gentongan is fed directly from Ijen Crater, it’s no surprise that its waters are rich in sulfur and extremely acidic, with a pH of just 0.6 to 0.8. This is definitely not water you can touch freely—it may irritate your skin or sting your eyes.
So we admired it from a safe distance. Taking photos? A must! Especially with the dramatic rock formations and the exotic water color as your backdrop.
There are designated selfie spots in safe zones, so you can still snap some great shots without getting too close to the acidic flow.
Geological Wonders and the Mystery Behind the Beauty
Gentongan Waterfall isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a geological marvel. According to information boards at the site, the cliffs show layers of volcanic material like lava, tuff, lapilli, and agglomerate. These layers form a natural pattern that’s not only mesmerizing but also scientifically significant, making this spot one of the official geosites of Ijen Geopark.
The waterfall itself was formed by a geological fault that caused a drop in elevation along the riverbed. The acidic stream flowing from Ijen Crater carries various chemical elements like Fe, Al, Cl, and SO4, carving Gentongan into one of Bondowoso’s most unique natural attractions.
Entrance Fee and Facilities
To enter the Gentongan Waterfall area, you only need to pay around IDR 10,000 to 15,000 per person. Prices may vary depending on management policy, but so far it’s very affordable.
Facilities are decent for a site that’s still quite natural—there’s a parking area, restrooms, selfie spots, and several gazebos for resting. There’s even valet parking available near the plantation’s main gate. However, since it’s in a remote area, don’t count on finding food stalls or drink vendors—better bring your own supplies.
Tips & Tricks for Visiting Gentongan Waterfall
- Wear a mask: The sulfur smell can be quite strong, so a mask will help when you get closer to the waterfall.
- Avoid direct contact with the water: Since the water is highly acidic, don’t dip your hands or face in it—especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Visit during clear weather: The trail gets slippery when it rains. Plus, sunlight makes the water and cliffs look even more photogenic.
- Bring your own water and snacks: With no food stalls nearby, make sure you’re stocked up before entering the area.
- Wear proper hiking shoes or sandals: The rocky and sometimes slippery paths require sturdy and comfortable footwear.
Final Thoughts: The Curious Charm of Acidic Beauty
Gentongan Waterfall may not be as famous as Ijen Crater or other waterfalls in East Java. But that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. It’s exotic, mysterious, and offers a visual and geological experience unlike any other.
If you ever find yourself in Bondowoso or Banyuwangi and feel like exploring something off the beaten path, head to Gentongan. Who knows—you might fall in love with the quiet surroundings, the “layer cake” cliffs, and the enchanting blue acid waters full of stories.
Because sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you never planned—and Gentongan Waterfall is proof of that.
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