Your Complete Travel Guide: 12 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Mount Bromo, Probolinggo

Considering a trip to Probolinggo's Mount Bromo? You're going to have an adventure of a lifetime! With its surreal sunrise, enormous sea of sand, and smoking crater, this famous volcano in East Java is one of Indonesia's most stunning tourist destinations, drawing visitors from all over Asia and Europe. However, there are some important things to know before you pack your bags and travel to this lunar-like location. Before you take a vacation to Bromo Mountain, read this article for 12 tips that will make your trip easy, safe, and truly amazing.

1. Which Gateway Is Best: Pasuruan, Malang, or Probolinggo?

Although there are several towns from which to reach Mount Bromo, Probolinggo is the most well-traveled and direct route, particularly for visitors. The main village closest to the Bromo crater, Cemoro Lawang, is easily accessible from here. Although they might have more difficult terrain or longer travel times, Malang and Pasuruan also provide access.

Pro Tip: Reserve transportation in advance, particularly on holidays or weekends. From Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang, local drivers frequently provide private vehicle or jeep rentals.

2. Get up really early

You must rise between 2:30 and 3:00 AM in order to witness the renowned Bromo sunrise. In order to reach Penanjakan Viewpoint or King Kong Hill, where you can see the sun rising over a sea of clouds with the Bromo, Batok, and Semeru mountains glowing in the morning light, the majority of sunrise tours begin this early.

This is the reason thousands of tourists visit Bromo each year, so don't miss it.

3. Cover Up, Bromo Could Be Freezing! 

Don't let Indonesia's tropical climate deceive you. Mount Bromo, which is 2,300 meters above sea level, can experience temperatures as low as 5 to 10°C (41 to 50°F) before sunrise. Wear layers, and pack warm socks, a beanie, gloves, and a windproof jacket. 

If necessary, you can also rent warm clothing from neighborhood stands in Cemoro Lawang. 

4. To Get the Whole Experience, Reserve a Jeep 

Tour Renting a 4WD jeep is the best way to explore Bromo because private vehicles are not permitted in the national park area. Typical tour stops include Savana (Teletubbies Hill), Bromo Crater, Sea of Sand, and Sunrise Viewpoint. 

Advice: Since each jeep can accommodate up to five people, share it with other passengers to split expenses.

5. Bring Cash! There Are No ATMs at the Top 

Bring enough cash (Indonesian Rupiah) for entrance tickets, snacks, jeep rental, and tips because there aren't any ATMs once you get to the highlands. Depending on the day and season, foreign visitors must pay an entrance fee of approximately IDR 220,000 to IDR 320,000.

While some Probolinggo tour operators and guesthouses take cards, they don't depend on them.

6. Cover yourself with a scarf or mask, it's dusty! 

The volcanic ash that makes up Bromo's Sea of Sand can become extremely dusty, particularly when there are a lot of moving jeeps. Wear a mask or scarf to protect your face and lungs, and if you have sensitive eyes, bring eye drops.

7. Pack a flashlight or headlamp

Visibility is poor if you're walking to the crater or hiking to the viewpoint before sunrise. Carry a trustworthy flashlight or headlamp, or use your phone sparingly (with a power bank to recharge it).

8. Pay Attention to the Crater's Steps

You must ascend a steep set of 250 concrete steps to reach the crater's edge on Mount Bromo. Although possible, it can be exhausting, particularly when done in thin air. Because there are no guardrails and it can get slippery, exercise caution when you're close to the edge.

Take in the breathtaking view from below if you have mobility issues or are afraid of heights.

9. Get the camera ready and capture the moment!

Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged because Mount Bromo is incredibly photogenic. Bring a power bank or extra batteries. A wide-angle lens is ideal for photographing the breathtaking scenery with a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

The Sea of Sand with Bromo in the background, Penanjakan Viewpoint, and sunrise photos with Semeru puffing smoke in the distance are the best locations.

10. Spend the night in Cemoro Lawang

Spend the night in Cemoro Lawang, the village nearest to Bromo, to make your visit less stressful. Numerous guesthouses, homestays, and a few hotels are available. In this manner, you can get enough sleep and be prepared for the early-morning adventure.

Low-cost accommodations: Bromo Permai Hotel, Lava View Lodge, and Café Lava Hostel are excellent places to start.

11. Go From May to October, during the dry season

Although Mount Bromo is open year-round, the best views and the most spectacular sunrises are found during the dry season. The November–April rainy season can result in mud, fog, or even the closure of certain trails.

12. Honor the environment and local culture

For the Tenggerese, Bromo is more than just a tourist destination; it is a place of worship. Locals hike up to the crater each year to offer food and animal sacrifices during the Yadnya Kasada festival. Don't litter, show respect for the land, and refrain from making loud noises or climbing on places of worship.

Leave no trace so that future visitors can appreciate Bromo as much as you do.

Concluding remarks

More than just a chance to take pictures, a visit to Mount Bromo in Probolinggo is an enthralling voyage into the volcanic splendor of East Java. You will be ready to enjoy the adventure, take breathtaking photos, and make lifelong memories if you follow these essential tips before visiting Mount Bromo.

Prepare for one of Indonesia's most famous sunrise experiences by packing your belongings, charging your camera, and getting ready. I'll see you on the edge!