I wasn’t expecting it. One moment I was on a winding road somewhere in East Java, sipping coffee from a small warung, and the next, I was standing in front of what looked like a giant green amphitheater sculpted by the gods.
Kawah Wurung Bondowoso, they call it. And trust me, this place is seriously underrated.
Surrounded by rolling hills, vast grasslands, and a crater that isn’t actually filled with lava, but lush green valleys, it’s the kind of landscape that makes you stop, breathe, and just say, “Wow.”
For nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone hunting for a hidden gem in East Java tourism, Kawah Wurung should be on your radar.
Where is Kawah Wurung located?
Kawah Wurung is tucked away in Desa Kalianyar, Kecamatan Sempol, Kabupaten Bondowoso, East Java, Indonesia. It's not as well-known as its volcanic cousin, Kawah Ijen, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
Fewer crowds, cleaner air, and nothing but green hills and blue skies as far as your eyes can see.
This spot is perfect for travelers who want a slice of raw, untouched nature with Instagrammable views without having to elbow through tour groups.
How to Get to Kawah Wurung Bondowoso?
Getting to Kawah Wurung is an adventure in itself. There are two main routes:
From Bondowoso: Follow the route towards Kawah Ijen, then continue your journey to Desa Sempol. From there, it’s only a 16 km drive to Kawah Wurung. The whole trip takes about 2–3 hours depending on road conditions and how often you stop for photo breaks (because you will).
From Banyuwangi: It’s about 40 km to Pos Paltuding (Ijen’s main entrance). From there, continue toward Bondowoso direction, then turn to Kawah Wurung. If you’ve just visited Kawah Ijen, you’re in luck! It’s only 14 km away.
Whether you’re on a scooter or in a car, the roads are fairly decent. Just keep an eye out for sharp turns and sudden uphill climbs.
Ticket Price? Super Budget-Friendly
You’d expect a place this beautiful to come with a price tag, but nope, only Rp5.000 per person (less than 50 cents USD!). That’s it.
Parking fees are minimal too, and there are no hidden charges. It’s the kind of trip that won’t make your wallet cry. Perfect for backpackers and student travelers on a tight budget.
What to Expect + My Experience There
Here’s the deal, Kawah Wurung isn’t your typical “kawah” (crater). Instead of steaming sulfur lakes or black volcanic rocks, you’ll be welcomed by wide grassy fields and green slopes that stretch endlessly under the sky. Locals sometimes call it the “green crater,” and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
I went there in the early morning, just as the sun peeked over the hills. Mist hovered over the valley like a dream. The only sounds? Birds, wind, and my own footsteps. It felt surreal.
The hike to the crater rim isn’t too tough, but it does require some stamina—especially if you’re not used to steep inclines. Luckily, the place has stairs and pathways to help you climb safely. The view from the top? Worth every drop of sweat.
If you're into photography, bring a drone. The aerial views are insane—think green hills rolling like ocean waves. For those who prefer chill vibes, just find a spot to sit and breathe it all in.
Facilities: Simple But Functional
Don’t expect a full-blown tourist complex here, but Kawah Wurung has enough to keep you comfortable:
- Wide parking area for both cars and motorbikes
- Public toilets
- Food stalls and small warungs for snacks or hot drinks
- Stairs and walking paths to the top of the crater. It's so long, so prepare throughly!
Everything is basic but functional and clean. For a spot this remote, I was pleasantly surprised.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
The site is open 24 hours, but timing is key if you want to make the most of it. Here’s what I recommend:
- Early Morning (6 AM – 8 AM): Cool air, soft lighting, peaceful vibes
- Late Afternoon (3 PM – 5 PM): Warm golden hour glow for amazing photos
- Avoid Noon: The sun can be brutal, and the trail gets hotter than you'd expect
Oh, and pack a light jacket. Even if it's sunny, the breeze at the top can get chilly, especially if you're visiting outside summer months.
Final Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Wear proper shoes, the hike isn’t extreme, but sandals won’t cut it.
- Bring snacks and drinking water, especially if you plan to explore longer.
- Protect the environment, don’t leave trash, and don’t pick the plants.
- If you're already visiting Kawah Ijen, squeeze in Kawah Wurung on the same trip. It’s that close!
- Don’t rely too much on Google Maps in remote areas. Ask locals, they're friendly and always willing to help.
So, Is Kawah Wurung Worth It?
Without a doubt, yes. It’s one of those rare places that surprises you in the best way possible. The mix of serenity, stunning scenery, and off-the-beaten-path vibes makes it a must-visit if you’re traveling around East Java. Plus, it’s super accessible and affordable, which is always a win.
So, what do you think? Would you add Kawah Wurung to your next East Java itinerary?
Have you ever been somewhere that made you feel like you were walking through a postcard?
Let’s chat in the comments, or DM me if you want tips for planning the route!
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