Gunung Bromo

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Gunung Bromo is the jewel in the crown of East Java tourist attractions and ranks as one of Southeast Asia's premier natural wonders. Located high in the hills 40 kilometres from the dusty town of Probolinggo on East Java's north coast and more or less due east of Malang, the area around the active volcano was one of the last refuges of the former Majapahit empire, which ruled most of Java and Bali in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Most tourists visit the area to get up before dawn so that they can catch sunrise over the stunning moon-like Tengger Caldera, which contains the active Gunung Bromo among a cluster of other volcanoes. Sitting right on the edge of the caldera is the town of Cemoro Lawang which is the most popular town for visitors to stay in. From here it is possible to walk to many of the best vantage points around the caldera or alternatively it is possible to catch a ride in one of the hundreds of jeeps that zoom around the area.

Cemoro Lawang sits about 2,000 metres above sea level and temperatures at night and the early morning are chilly, meaning you will require at least a long sleeve shirt and long pants, but preferably also a jacket.

When the sun rises, temperatures rise to about 20 degree Celsius, at which time it is possible to shed some excess clothing, particularly if you are hiking.

There isn't much in the way of facilities in this area, so bring all the cash you need for your time in the area. As well, be aware that medical facilities are rudimentary should you sprain an ankle or worse.

Text and/or map last updated on 15th July, 2012.

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Gunung Bromo reviews

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A must see . . but that is all.

You absolutely must stop by Mt. Bromo for this beautiful site if you have the time. You 'can' do it independently in just 2day/1night between Yogyakarta and Banyuwangi if you are in a hurry - but it will be a hectic part of your trip and well rewarded with a relaxing few days on Bali afterwards.

I personally didn't spend much time in Cemoro Lawang but it seemed ready to separate me from money and was very much ready to get me out of town via any form of transportation I'd be willing to pay for. As I was in a bit of a hurry thanks to a long stay in Yogyakarta and am not a big photography nut I felt I'd really seen it all by the time we got back to town after our morning adventure.

A quick breakfast and getting as early a bus back down to sea level as I could find allowed me to catch the train to Banyuwangi (I was about 20 minutes late but the train was 40 so it worked out). Some people may really like to linger around here, but for me it was a place to stop and take in some sites. Probably very nice as part of a trip straight from Yogya to Banyuwangi that could also include Ijen if you have a large group that can pay for private transport.

Sights and activities only a 6 as it is all just the scenery & environment.
- Sights & activities
- History & culture
- Scenery & environment
- Eat & drink
- Traveller's scene
- Romance
- Value for money
- I'll be back (or not)
By caseyprich (dabbler)
Written on 7th May, 2013 after a visit to Gunung Bromo in July, 2012

Also reviewed by caseyprich: Battambang, Can Tho, Champasak, China Beach, Da Nang, Don Dhet, Gili Meno, Hoi An, Hue, Kampot,

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