10 Epic Volcanoes To Hike in Indonesia

Towering over the island of Sumatra at 12,500 feet (3,805 meters), Kerinci is Indonesia’s tallest volcano. The peak sits within the Kerinci Seblat National Park, home to the endangered Sumatran rhino and Sumatran tiger, as well as elephants, bears, tapirs, leopards, and gibbons.

The volcano offers a challenging trek through tropical foliage; on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Indian Ocean. At the summit, expect magnificent views of a crater filled with blue-green waters. Depending on your fitness, the trek to the summit takes 2–3 days.

With its blue flames, turquoise crater lake, and sulfur fumes, trekking Ijen is like stepping onto another planet. At 9,000 feet (2,769 meters), the climb up to the peak is relatively easy compared to other volcanoes on this list. For a chance to see East Java’s blue flames though, start in the dark hours before sunrise.

The walk from base camp to the start of the climb takes about an hour, then another hour to reach the summit. From here, the descent into the crater takes around 45 minutes. Don’t forget to wear a gas mask to protect yourself from fumes. If you’re thinking of swimming in the lake, think again—despite its beautiful appearance, the water’s high acidity can decompose your skin.

One of the most photogenic volcanoes in Indonesia, Mt. Bromo soars dramatically 7,600 feet (2,329 meters) into the clouds with the watchful eye of Mt. Semeru in the background. One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Bromo is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, which includes the so-called Tengger Sand Sea, a special ecosystem and the only desert-like area in Indonesia.

The most popular way to climb Bromo is to cross this sand sea by Jeep before the short but steep trek up concrete steps to the summit. You can also combine a Bromo and Ijen excursion for maximum enjoyment.

Also located within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Mt. Semeru stands tall at 12,060 feet (3,676 meters). Hikers come for the clear trails, picturesque surrounding hills, savanna, and wildflowers, as well as the beautiful campsite next to Lake Ranu Kumbolo.

The hike takes two days and is relatively easy, with the push to the summit being the most challenging section. The climb up here is worth it though, and you can witness vast clouds of steam and volcanic ash spitting out, sometimes as frequently as every 10 minutes.

Translating to "Mountain of Fire," Merapi is one of Indonesia’s most active and dangerous volcanoes, with frequent eruptions occurring over recent years. Despite its activity, its popularity has grown among thrillseekers attempting the dramatic climb.

Hike when activity levels are low to avoid dangerous gases, and consider night treks as a way to avoid the brutally hot daytime temperatures. From the New Selo basecamp, the trek to the summit takes between 4–6 hours, but it’s a challenging hike with steep slopes, so be prepared for the occasional scramble.

At 10,300 feet (3,140 meters), Mt. Agung is Bali’s tallest volcano and one of Indonesia’s most famous. Agung holds incredible spiritual significance for the Balinese and is considered to be the home of the gods—you’ll find Pura Besakih, Bali’s most important temple, on Agung’s southern slopes.

This volcano is better suited for more experienced hikers, as the climb to the summit is steep and strenuous. There are two main routes you can take: From Pura Pasar Agung it takes 4–5 hours, and from Besakih it takes 6–7 hours.

Related: How To Get Off The Beaten Path on Bali

If you’re looking for something a little less challenging during your Bali trip, Mt. Batur—at 5,600 feet (1,715 meters)—is a popular alternative to Agung. Located in the mountainous region of Kintamani, the volcano is surrounded by rugged beauty straight out of a postcard. Its crater is located within another beautiful caldera, creating what is called a "double caldera."

All ages and abilities can climb Batur, and the climb only takes 2–3 hours. Like many other Indonesian volcanoes, the best time to climb is a few hours before dawn so you can catch the sunrise with Mt. Agung in the background.

Soaring to heights of 12,200 feet (3,726 meters), Mt. Rinjani is Indonesia’s second-tallest volcano. The trek is demanding and can take between 2–4 days, depending on your tour.

While some choose to start from the village of Senaru and climb through the thick rainforest to camp at the crater rim, climbing from Sembalun is a better starting point if you want to reach the summit. The views are regarded as some of the best in the country, as you can see the whole of Lombok and even as far as Sumbawa, the Gili Islands, and Bali.

While Mt. Krakatoa is known as the site of one of the world’s most famous eruptions, the 1815 eruption of Mt. Tambora was one of the world’s deadliest. A series of large explosions sent a huge column of volcanic ash into the air, changing weather patterns across the world and causing a phenomenon called "a year without summer."

Today, the volcano is safe to visit, but its remote location means that few hikers attempt the climb. Those who do will face a strenuous journey that takes 2–3 days from Pancasila village. While you’re in the area, make sure to visit the fascinating archaeological sites which have been uncovered since the 1815 eruption.

Each volcano in Indonesia has its own charm, and Mt. Kelimutu’s famous tri-colored lakes are truly extraordinary. Nestled in the crater at 5,400 feet (1,640 meters), these three lakes are known to regularly change colors from blue to green, pink, or brown due to changes in the natural gases.

Kelimutu also happens to be one of the easiest climbs in Indonesia. To get here, drive from Ende to the village of Moni on Flores before hiking the 15–30 minutes up to the lakes. The path is suitable for all ages and abilities.