Discover Banyuwangi: A Hidden Gem of East Java

Banyuwangi is the east-most city in Java, this is where the sun first rises in the morning, throwing its welcoming rays over Java. This lush green island is densely populated. Banyuwangi Regency extends over an area of 5,800 square km, comprising the southern beaches brushed by the Indian Ocean, to the impressive Mt. Raung stands at 3,282 meters and Mt Merapi at 2,800 meters above sea level.

Banyuwangi Natural Wonders

Banyuwangi’s proximity to Bali makes it an excellent stopover for travelers planning to visit the Island of the Gods, either before or after their trip. Banyuwangi boasts some of Indonesia's most breathtaking natural wonders, which is why its natural attractions should definitely be on your travel list

1. One of the largest blue fire phenomena

The iconic blue fire at Ijen Crater 

Photo credit: indonesia.tripcanvas.co

The renowned Ijen Crater, famous for its captivating blue fire, is a must-see for any visitor. Inside the crater lies the world's largest highly acidic lake, its turquoise waters enhancing the surreal experience. 

Ijen Crater stands out as one of the region's most famous tourist spots, celebrated not only for its striking green lake and stunning views but also for its iconic blue fire–if you’re fortunate. The largest of such phenomena in the world, with a similar view found only in Ethiopia’s Mount Dallol, the legendary Ijen’s blue fire can reach a temperature of up to 600 degrees Celsius.

2. Beach for surfing spots

Plengkung Beach, a hidden paradise for surfers

Photo credit: milenianews.com/lifestyle/travelling

Banyuwangi is renowned internationally for its excellent surfing spots. Plengkung Beach, also known as "G-Land," is celebrated for having some of the best waves in the world, ranking just behind Hawaii. This iconic beach features a series of waves with an average of seven rows, earning it the impressive title of "The Seven Giant Waves Wonder.

Red Beach, or "Pantai Merah," is another beach in Banyuwangi that’s ideal for beginner surfers, with fewer coral reefs along the shoreline, reducing potential hazards. Additionally, the beach offers breathtaking sunset views.

3. Great place for wildlife explorations

Alas Purwo National Park

Photo credit: javaprivatetour.com

Banyuwangi is also a great place for wildlife explorations. See them roam freely in Alas Purwo National Park, the oldest conservation area on Java Island. The park boasts a plethora of fantastic beaches, including Plengkung (G-Land), Trianggulasi, Ngagelan, Cungur, Teluk Biru, and Pancur Beach. Each offers a unique coastal experience. There are also caves, such as Istana Cave, Mayangkoro Cave, Padepokan Cave, Basori Cave, Songgo Langit Cave, and Jepang Cave. Don’t miss Sadengan Savannah. This 80-hectare grassland is a natural feeding ground for various large mammals such as banteng, deer, and more. 

For adventurous souls, embark on a safari across the savannah of Baluran National Park. Here, you’ll encounter the impressive Java water buffalo, known as "banteng," the elusive Java mouse-deer, or "kancil," as well as vibrant peacocks, majestic eagles, playful macaques, and various other wildlife.

4. Venture through the waterway

Green Bay, Banyuwangi

Photo credit: indonesia-tourism.com

Green Bay, or Sarongan Pesanggaran, will captivate you with its striking waters that transition from green at the shore to blue further out. Its pristine white sands and tropical ambiance offer a vibe reminiscent of Bali or Lombok.

For those an extreme challenge, venture through the waterway to Tabuhan Island, just 20 kilometers from Banyuwangi, for thrilling kite-surfing and wind-surfing activities.

Finally, head to Sukamade Beach, renowned for its turtle nesting sites. En route from Banyuwangi, to an adventurous jungle landscape of Meru Betiri National Park, where you can encounter macaques, peacocks, and other endemic bird species

Tours to Banyuwangi 

To make the most of your Banyuwangi adventure, consider booking one of the following tour packages: 

1. Ijen Blue Fire (2 Days, 1 Night)

Itinerary: 

Day 1:  Arrival - Free Program

Arrival at Banyuwangi Airport/ train station, pick-up service, hotel check-in, free program.

Day 2: Ijen Blue Fire

At midnight, pick up at the hotel, journey to Ijen volcano for blue fire hunting, then trek and enjoy the beautiful view of Ijen Crater. Back to the hotel, transfer out to Banyuwangi airport/ train station. End of program. 

Tour price: Starting at USD 94 for a group of 9-12 persons, and around USD 150 for a group of 2-3. The bigger the group, the lower the price per person. 

Tour operator: Blutama Tour & Travel (www.blutamatours.co.id). For further information, e-mail: [email protected], or call +6281331117700, +6281333031489

2. Sukamade - Kalibaru - Ijen (4 Days, 3 Nights)

Day 1:  Arrival - Sukamade

Upon arriving at Banyuwangi Airport or the train station, embark on a journey to Sukamade. Take in the stunning scenery as you pass through lush forests and expansive rubber plantations. The day concludes with an exciting turtle spawn-hunting experience.  

Day 2: Sukamade - Teluk Ijo - Kalibaru

Start your morning by releasing baby turtles on the beach, followed by checking out from the guest house. Continue your journey to explore Teluk Ijo, a stunning beach known for its turquoise blue sea. Afterward, head to Kalibaru and check in at your hotel, where you can unwind and relax.

Day 3: Kalibaru Plantation

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day by exploring Kalibaru’s mini plantations, featuring coffee, clove, and cacao. Then, proceed with a tour of Banyuwangi City to discover its unique attractions.

Day 4: Ijen - Departure

Start your adventure at midnight with a trip to the Ijen Crater, where you'll witness the mesmerizing blue flames and take in the breathtaking views of the crater. Return to the hotel for some rest, then check out around noon. Afterward, you'll be transferred to Banyuwangi Airport or the train station, marking the end of the program. 

Tour price: Starting at USD 261 for a group of 6-8 persons, and around USD 438 for a group of 2-3. The bigger the group, the lower the price per person. 

Tour operator: Blutama Tour & Travel (www.blutamatours.co.id). For further information, e-mail: [email protected], or call +6281331117700, +6281333031489

For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

3. Ijen - Baluran National Park (2 Days, 1 Night)

Day 1: Arrival - Baluran National Park

Upon arrival at Banyuwangi airport or train station, you’ll be greeted and picked up for a journey to Baluran National Park. Explore the vast Bekol Savanna, where you can spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Afterward, unwind with some leisure time at Bama Beach. The day concludes with a hotel check-in, followed by free time to relax.

Day 2: Midnight Adventure - Ijen Volcano

Begin your journey at midnight with a pick-up from your hotel and head to Ijen Volcano to witness the mesmerizing blue fire. Trek up to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ijen Crater. Afterward, return to the hotel to freshen up before departing for Banyuwangi Airport or the train station, marking the end of the program. 

Tour price: Starting at USD 94 for a group of 9-12 persons, and around USD 150 for a group of 2-3. The bigger the group, the lower the price per person. 

Tour operator: Blutama Tour & Travel (www.blutamatours.co.id). For further information, e-mail: [email protected], or call +6281331117700, +6281333031489

For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

4. Banyuwangi Tour (3 Days, 2 Nights)

Day 1: Meet at the designated point at 10:00 AM, and begin your adventure with a snorkeling session at 10:30 AM. Afterward, enjoy a delightful lunch at 12:15 PM before checking into your hotel at 1:30 PM. At 3:30 PM, set out for a city tour to explore the local attractions. Dinner will be served at 6:00 PM, followed by some free time at 8:00 PM to relax and prepare for your upcoming hike to Ijen. Depart for Ijen at 11:30 PM, and return to the hotel by 5:00 AM the next morning.

Day 2: Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel at 6:20 AM, followed by a visit to Jawatan and a local souvenir center at 8:00 AM. Enjoy a traditional lunch of rujak soto at 12:30 PM, then head to Pulau Merah at 1:45 PM to relax and take in the beautiful sunset. Dinner will be served at Mustika Beach at 5:30 PM, and you'll return to the hotel at 7:30 PM.

Day 3: Start with breakfast at the hotel at 6:30 AM, followed by a heritage mission trip at 9:00 AM. Lunch will be at 12:30 PM, and at 2:00 PM, you'll be transferred out, marking the end of your journey.

Price: Starting from USD 173.59 for a group of 7-10. The bigger the group, the lower the price per person. Tour Operator: Oseng Nusantara Tour & Travel. Contact: Dimas at +6285236437400. For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

5. Tumpak Sewu – Bromo – Ijen (4 Days, 3 Nights)

This tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the best of East Java's natural wonders. The itinerary includes:

• Day 1: Pick-up from Malang or Surabaya, transfer to Pronojiwo Village, with an optional visit to Kapas Biru Waterfall.

• Day 2:Explore Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and nearby attractions like Telaga Nirwana Waterfall and Goa Tetes. Later, transfer to Bromo and stay overnight at a hotel overlooking the volcano.

• Day 3: Early morning jeep ride to Mount Penanjakan for the sunrise view, followed by a trek to Bromo Crater. Transfer to Banyuwangi in the afternoon.

• Day 4: Midnight departure for Ijen Crater to witness the blue fire and sunrise. The tour concludes with a transfer to Bali.

Price: Starting from USD 201 for a group of 10, and around USD 374 for 2 pax. 

Tour Operator: yukbanyuwangi.co.id. E-mail: [email protected]. Phone: +6281323445911. For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

6. Bali – Ijen Full-Day Tour

For those based in Bali but eager to experience the natural beauty of Ijen, this full-day tour offers a convenient and adventurous escape:

• Departure: 7:00 PM from your hotel in Bali, followed by a 5-hour drive to Gilimanuk ferry port and a ferry ride to Java.

• Hiking to Ijen Volcano:  Begin the trek at 02:00 AM to witness the famous blue fire and enjoy the sunrise over Ijen’s turquoise lake.

• Return to Bali: After the hike, have breakfast and return to Bali.

Price: Starting from USD 60 for a group of 12 participants, and around USD 130 for 2 pax. Tour Operator: yukbanyuwangi.co.id. E-mail: [email protected]. Phone: +6281323445911. For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

7. Sukamade 2 Days 1 Night Tour

Ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts, this tour takes you deep into Meru Betiri National Park to witness sea turtles in their natural habitat:

• Day 1: Depart from Banyuwangi, visit Djawatan Forest, and embark on an off-road adventure to Sukamade Beach. Enjoy a turtle hatchery observation in the evening.

• Day 2: Participate in a turtle release activity in the morning, followed by an optional visit to Green Bay Beach before returning to Banyuwangi.

Price: Starting from USD 83 for a group of 10 participants, and around USD 160 for 2 participants. Tour Operator: yukbanyuwangi.co.id. E-mail: [email protected]. Phone: +6281323445911. For more programs offered, see the brochure. 

An adventure trip to Banyuwangi promises a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and thrilling experiences. From exploring volcanic craters and lush savannahs to marveling at the vibrant wildlife and serene beaches, every moment in Banyuwangi is a chance to create lasting memories. For more spectacular destinations across Indonesia, follow @wonderfulindonesia on Instagram and let your wanderlust guide you to even more hidden gems in this stunning archipelago.