How to Go to Ijen Crater from Bali – The Complete Travel Guide

If you’re staying in Bali and want to experience the magical Blue Fire phenomenon at Ijen Crater, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Located in East Java, Mount Ijen is famous for its electric-blue flames, turquoise acid lake, and sulfur mining activity. Though Ijen is on a different island, getting there from Bali is easier than you might think.

This comprehensive guide explains how to go to Ijen Crater from Bali, including transport options, travel time, suggested itineraries, and insider tips to help you plan the perfect trip.

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Where Is Ijen Crater?

Mount Ijen (Gunung Ijen) is located in East Java, Indonesia, near the town of Banyuwangi. From Bali, you must cross over to Java via ferry from Gilimanuk Port to Ketapang Port. The entire journey, including driving and ferry, typically takes 8 to 10 hours, depending on your starting point in Bali.

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How to Get to Ijen Crater from Bali

1. By Joining a Tour (Most Convenient Option)

The most hassle-free way to go to Ijen from Bali is by booking a guided tour. At Ijen Expedition Tour, we provide door-to-door service that includes all transportation, ferry tickets, accommodation, entrance fees, and a local guide.

✅ Benefits of Joining a Tour:

• No need to plan complex transfers

• Comfortable private car or minivan

• English-speaking local guide

• Safe and efficient itinerary

• Early morning hike with proper timing for Blue Fire

Popular Package:
👉 Bali to Ijen Crater Blue Fire Tour – 2 Days 1 Night

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2. Self-Guided Option (Independent Travel)

For the more adventurous traveler, you can get to Ijen on your own, but it requires multiple transfers and planning.

Step-by-Step Guide:

a. From Bali to Gilimanuk Port (West Bali)

• Take a bus or hire a private driver to Gilimanuk Harbor

• Duration: 4–5 hours from Ubud, 3–4 hours from Lovina

b. Ferry from Gilimanuk to Ketapang (Java)

• Ferries operate 24/7 and run every 30 minutes

• Duration: 1 hour (but expect delays)

• Cost: Approx. IDR 8,000–10,000 per person

c. From Ketapang to Banyuwangi

• Once you arrive in Ketapang, take a taxi or ojek to your hotel or directly to Paltuding Basecamp (starting point for the Ijen hike)

• It’s best to stay overnight in Banyuwangi, then hike the crater around 2 AM

d. Climb Ijen Crater

• From Paltuding, it’s a 3 km trek (1.5–2 hours) to the rim

• To see the Blue Fire, start hiking around 2:00 AM

• Local guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation

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Best Time to Visit Ijen Crater

• Dry Season (May to October) is ideal

• Avoid rainy season (November–March) due to slippery trails

• Blue Fire is visible only at night, so overnight trips are essential

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Sample Itinerary: Bali to Ijen Crater (2D1N)

Day 1

• 10:00 AM – Pick up from hotel in Bali (Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, etc.)

• 3:00 PM – Arrive at Gilimanuk Port

• 4:00 PM – Ferry to Ketapang (Java)

• 5:00 PM – Drive to hotel in Banyuwangi

• 6:00 PM – Check-in & rest

Day 2

• 1:00 AM – Drive to Paltuding Basecamp

• 2:00 AM – Start trekking to Ijen Crater

• 3:30 AM – Witness the Blue Fire

• 5:30 AM – Sunrise over the acidic turquoise lake

• 7:00 AM – Descend and return to Banyuwangi

• 9:00 AM – Breakfast and check-out

• 10:00 AM – Return to Bali (arrive by late afternoon/evening)

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Essential Tips for the Journey

• Wear warm layers: It gets cold before sunrise at the crater

• Bring a headlamp or flashlight

• Wear a gas mask: Sulfur fumes can be intense (provided on tours)

• Stay hydrated and bring snacks

• Book your tour with a licensed operator for safety and convenience

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Why Choose Ijen Expedition Tour?

At Ijen Expedition Tour, we specialize in connecting travelers from Bali to East Java’s hidden gems. Our experienced team ensures a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience with customizable packages and local insights.

✨ Trusted by thousands of travelers
🚐 Private transport & ferry included
🧭 Expert guides for night trek safety
📅 Flexible scheduling from Bali

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Conclusion

Traveling from Bali to Ijen Crater is one of the most rewarding adventures in Indonesia. Whether you choose a guided tour or go independently, witnessing the otherworldly Blue Fire at Ijen is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ready for the journey?
👉 Book your Bali to Ijen Crater Tour now

BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE

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