That morning, the Situbondo air felt more pleasant than usual. The sun had just risen, and a cup of coffee from a roadside stall was enough to spark the excitement for a trip to what people say is one of East Java’s hidden gems: Agrotourism Kayumas in Situbondo.
At first, I was just curious — maybe even a little doubtful. Is there really a cool, story-rich coffee plantation here? As a local, I know Situbondo is known for its hot climate, and there aren’t many crops that grow well here.
Work had made me forget my travel plans. Plus, the idea of visiting a mountain-side coffee plantation didn’t sound too thrilling. But a friend’s enthusiastic story about their recent trip to Kayumas reignited the wanderlust in me. And finally, last weekend, I gave in to my curiosity.
So, what makes Agrotourism Kayumas special and worth visiting? Well, not everything can be explained. But once I set foot in Kayumas, all my questions were answered.
The Journey to the Chilly Slopes of Kayumas
Getting to Kayumas isn’t the easiest ride. But that’s part of the adventure!
From the center of Situbondo city, my friends and I drove about 70 kilometers to Arjasa District. The road was smooth until we turned off toward Afdeling Plampang. That’s where the real adventure began: a bumpy, winding, off-road drive through scenic rural villages.
The narrow roads lined with rocks and twists forced us to slow down — which was perfect for soaking in the scenery. Green coffee plantations and rolling hills greeted us from both sides. The air? Crisp, cool, and fresh — a signature of highland areas, as this region sits at 1,300–1,600 meters above sea level. Pro tip: Bring a jacket!
The Scent of Coffee, Local Legends, and Colonial-Era History
Arriving at the plantation, the atmosphere shifted entirely. This is where Situbondo’s best Arabica coffee is grown, including the rare maragogype variety and the famous civet coffee (kopi luwak), which has made its way to European markets. If you're a coffee lover, this place will feel like home.
One of the most fascinating stories here is the origin of kopi luwak. During Dutch colonial times, plantation workers weren’t allowed to take any coffee harvests. Thinking creatively, they began collecting coffee beans from civet droppings. After cleaning, roasting, and brewing them — they discovered something amazing: the flavor was richer and the aroma more unique than regular coffee. From that moment, kopi luwak was born, a luxurious brew with bittersweet beginnings.
Today, Agrotourism Kayumas not only preserves this history but offers visitors a refreshing and rich travel experience.
Scenic Views and Activities That Will Keep You Coming Back
Beyond the coffee, Kayumas boasts incredible natural beauty. Mountains and valleys create a postcard-perfect backdrop in every direction. A leisurely walk through the plantation can be deeply relaxing. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a hidden waterfall, the striking red-soil hills, or even witness the harvest of local produce such as oranges, cloves, porang, ginger, tobacco, and wild honey.
We even met a few local farmers who warmly chatted with us about their daily lives. Their friendliness made the trip feel even more special — even as the mountain breeze kept us chilled.
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Budget-Friendly Getaway with Priceless Experiences
One of the best things about Kayumas is how affordable it is. To explore the area, you only need to pay a small fee, either to the local community or PTPN XII (the managing state-owned plantation company), especially if you want a guided tour or a coffee tasting session. Fees usually range from IDR 10,000 to IDR 25,000 depending on the package.
Of course, we had to try freshly roasted kopi luwak on-site. It’s more expensive than your usual cup, but the flavor? Incredible. Smooth, rich, and with a hint of natural sweetness at the finish.
Tips & Tricks to Enjoy Agrotourism Kayumas
- Use a reliable vehicle. The road to Afdeling Plampang can be rough. Make sure your car or motorcycle is in good condition and has a full tank.
- Come early or late afternoon. Mornings are great for catching the soft mist over the plantation. Late afternoons are perfect for golden hour photos.
- Bring a jacket and comfy shoes. The air can be really cold, especially in the morning or evening. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on rocky or earthy terrain.
- Talk to locals. They’re incredibly friendly and sometimes a simple conversation leads to unexpected adventures — like getting to try freshly harvested coffee!
- Bring a camera or fully charged phone. There are tons of Instagram-worthy spots — from misty hills to authentic roasting scenes.
A Cup of Coffee, A Thousand Stories
Agrotourism Kayumas is not just about seeing coffee trees or sipping expensive coffee. It’s about experiencing the harmony between nature, history, and community. The calm atmosphere, fresh air, and the rich stories behind every cup make it unforgettable.
If you're looking for a place to clear your mind, escape the daily grind, or just enjoy coffee at its origin, Kayumas is your answer.
Because sometimes, happiness is simple — a warm cup of coffee in the middle of a lush plantation, surrounded by morning mist and genuine smiles from the locals. (*)
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