There are many volcanic mountains to hike in Indonesia, sometimes so many it can be confusing. Depending on what region of Indonesia you plan on visiting, here is a list of volcanic hikes that you must check out.
BALI
1. Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano that reaches 1700 metres. The hike takes the average person about 2 hours to complete and at the top you will be rewarded by spectacular views of Bali and other nearby islands. Next to the volcano is Lake Batur another breathtaking place to discover.
2. Mount Agung
The tallest mountain in Bali is Mount Agung, which is a staggering 3142 metres high. It can take about 6 or 7 hours to hike to the top and can be quite demanding. Mount Agung is special in that it holds a spiritual significance to the people of Bali. Nearby to Mount Agung are the temples Pasar Agung and the Besakih Temple, which contribute to a complete picture of the culture of Bali.
3. Mount Bratan
Mount Bratan is one of the best volcanoes to hike in Indonesia because it is surrounded by 3 stunning lakes. Bratan itself is a nature’s paradise complex, home to the volcano, lakes, waterfalls, and even an adventure park. While the hike itself is only a day trip, you can stay nearby the volcano and spend your time getting to know the surrounding area. [Also read – Top 15 Must Visit and Interesting Places in Bali, Indonesia 2016]
LOMBOK
4. Mount Rinjani
The second tallest volcano in Indonesia is Mount Rinjani and it climbs up to 3726 metres. At the top of the volcano is a very large crater lake, Segara Anak. The hike to the summit takes 2 days and is not for the faint of heart. Mount Rinjani is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Lombok, so it can be quite busy, especially during peak seasons.
JAVA
5. Mount Merapi
In 2006 Mount Merapi had a large eruption, leading to the evacuation of many local people. It continues to remain active, and while spectacular, caution should be exercised if you choose to hike around it. The summit is 2930 metres and takes 2 to 3 days to hike.
6. Mount Bromo
The most iconic mountain in Indonesia is Mount Bromo. The active volcano is 2329 metres tall and spews white sulphuric smoke, giving it a very mystical air. The sunrise over the volcano is not to be missed.
7. Ijen Volcano
Atop the Ijen volcano lies a giant crater lake with crisp turquoise water colored by sulphur. It is actually the world’s largest highly acidic crater lake. The most amazing part of Ijen Volcano is its blue flames. The fire is actually ignited sulphuric gas and when hot enough the gas cracks and ignites. When seen at night you can realize why Mount Ijen is one of the best volcanoes in all of Indonesia.
8. Mount Semeru
The tallest mountain in Java at 3676 metres, Mount Semeru is known by the locals as The Great Mountain, a testament to its prowess. The trip to the peak takes 2 days to hike and won’t be too strenuous for the average hiker. The final slope to the summit is the hardest, but the view at the top makes it worth it. Mount Semeru is still active and smoke continuously billows from its top.
9. Mount Merbabu
While the majority of the major volcanoes in Indonesia remain active, Mount Merbabu is one that is dormant. The peak stands at 3142 metres high and the trek to the top is quite difficult. Part of Mount Merbabu has been designated as a national park since 2004.
10. Mount Sumbing
Java is home to many volcanoes and it can be hard to choose which ones to hike. This volcano boats a perfectly shaped cone at the top. Legend also has it that one of the holy men who brought Islam to Indonesia has his final resting place inside the volcano. As a result Mount Sumbing has a rich mysticism to it. The peak is 3371 metres tall and the trek to the top can be quite difficult at times.
11. Tangkuban Perahu
Last erupted in 1983, Tangkuban Perahu is 2084 metres high and a nice hike to take. It is a popular tourist attraction and when you reach the top you can even buy eggs that were cooked on the hot surface of the volcano. [Also read – Top 7 Places on Java – Must See and Things to Do]
SUMATRA
12. Mount Krakatoa
A truly famous volcano, Mount Krakatoa erupted in 1883 and has gone on record as the most violent eruption ever recorded. The eruption was so powerful that smoke carried to Australia and India and a massive tsunami was caused because of it.
The eruption in 1883 would lead to the deaths of over 35,000 people. Mount Krakatoa is still an active volcano and caution should be heeded while hiking it. You would need 2 days to reach the summit; camping at Rakata Island overnight is recommended and will allow you an amazing view of the volcano.
13. Mount Kerinci
The highest volcano in Indonesia is Mount Kerinci, standing at 3805 metres. It is located within the KerinciSeblat National Park that is famous for housing the endangered Sumatran Rhinoceros and the endangered Sumatran Tiger. Hiking Mount Kerinci is a 3 day journey, so be prepared with enough gear as you set out. Surrounding the volcano are a number of lakes that offer a scenic backdrop to any picnic.
14. Mount Sibayak
At just over 2100 metres tall, Moutn Sibayak offers a nice 3 hour walk to the top of the volcano, for those looking for an achievable day hike. It is still active and vents of steam can be seen seeping from the top. After a good hike you can relax at the base in the local hot springs.
FLORES
15. Mount Kelimutu
One of the best volcanoes to hike is Mount Kelimutu because of its famous tri-colored lakes. The volcanic chemicals have turned the lakes blue, green and red which makes it a unique sight to see. The highest peak is only 1713 metres, so Mount Kelimutu can be scaled in a day.
Indonesia is famous for its volcanoes, and hiking is a great way to discover them. Choose from an overwhelming list of must see volcanic mountains for an adventure of a life time.
