In our eyes east Java is the real Indonesia. It's raw and wild, untamed. Jurassic Park is no fantasy, it's real and coming to east Java yourself, you'll believe that too. Millions of years it's taken to mold and shape this land torn apart and thrown back together again. The Earth's crust, heat and compression deep below has produced beautiful volcanoes. The volcanoes themselves responsible for east Java's rugged nature you're going to love.
The only thing missing from this ageless rock are the dinosaurs. But there's little doubt in your imagination you'll conjure those up in no time.
That's how it was for us, and those in our group too. Like vultures, pterosaurs circling above a great hole, that Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is. You will move heaven and earth to get here. It's this wilderness, the attraction of the volcano overpowering. You know yourself it's now futile to fight the urge to travel to east Java.
This is why you travel to Java, because there are three distinct regions: west, central and east of the Island. Which region is best? They're each exhilarating in their own way. We fell in love with the east of the Island because of the rugged jungles and waterfalls. As stated earlier, it's the earthshattering landscape that grabs ahold of you.
Read on for tips how to enjoy Indonesia's best, most outrageous waterfalls.
The rainy season for the Island of Java is from October through to the following May. November, December, January, February and March are the best west monsoon months on Java. That's when you should be chasing the waterfalls. Those months have the heaviest rainfall, creating powerful torrential rivers and waterfalls.
Temperatures during the monsoon period seldom dip below 80° Fahrenheit (about 24° Celsius).
Does that sound like a good time for another crazy adventure? It is. If wild water rafting excites you, early in the monsoon season is the safest time for this activity. But do note the west side of Java receives more rainfall than the east end of the Island. You may find a better experience elsewhere for rafting or kayaking.
Read Also: Why Should You Visit Bandung, in West Java
Avoid the noise of the crowds during the Island's low seasons by visiting either in:
There are wonderful and exciting waterfalls all over Indonesia. The one that amazed us is right here in east Java. It is the Tampuk Sewu Waterfall. What is so special about this waterfall? The location. Looking down, it's difficult to comprehend the size of this sinkhole. Looking up you find yourself in the shadow of the mighty Mount Semeru. Either way you left feeling dumbfounded.
The walk to the viewing platform from the main entrance isn't long, less than 10 minutes in fact. But it takes anything up to 30 minutes to reach the bottom, coming to rest on the rock face below. Only once at the bottom can you appreciate this expanse ― and how tiny you are for comparison. It is so easy to sit there for quite some time.
Listening to the sound of your own thoughts is quite therapeutic. It's quiet except for the sound of the waterfall, and the squeals of excitement from others. The spray is amazing: it lands on you and immediately it cools, bringing you relief from the heat.
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Looking around and up, all kinds of emotion pull at you. The incredible size of the hole you're in, and the natural beauty is a one off. Arrive early before sunrise for the mist wavering over the opening, it's sensational.
There are other waterfalls of course. You'll find those as spectacular? You will. It won't be the once only your bottom jaw drops, leaving you completely stunned. In east Java, there is indisputable beauty:
These are the more popular waterfalls. Many others exist and for a few, caves feature in the waterfall too. The Earth's crust twisted and bulged, contorted out of shape. Nature created something special so we could have such memorable attractions. The path through the jungle is passable with care, be sure to go with a guide. Hire one, they're loitering around the entrance usually to lead you the way.
The entrance fee for the waterfalls, including the Goa Tetes route is 15,000IDR. We simply handed over US$4 to a guide, to cover everything.
The best advice is to book a guided tour from Malang City. Which may also include several other attractions as part of your full day itinerary. You could also do so from Surabaya City if you prefer (but only if you can't get to Malang, in desperation).
Or from either city, arrange to travel and stay in a homestay close to Bromo National Park? You are within arm's length of Mount Semeru. With the all-important Tumpak Sewu Waterfall further to the east 3 hours by road.
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If you are ever near to Malang in east Java then you must go for a trek into the rainforest jungle. You are on the lookout for the Kapas Biru Waterfall. The whole natural world surrounding this attraction is prehistoric in tone. It feels amazing, when creeping up on it. Trapsing past rice fields and finding giant bamboo do you sense the waterfall is nearby. It's a paradise for photographers.
A short distance from this waterfall you stumble upon Coban Sriti Waterfall. Continue to hike past Kapas Biru for 30 minutes or so. The rainforest jungle can be hot and humid. Be sure to stay hydrated.
A town to the north of Java, Tuban Town is reachable from Surabaya City, 100km to the east of it. The area is well known for having thousands of caves. The most famous of the caves in the Regency is Akbar Cave, within the town. Moving along the manmade walkways you come huge never-ending chambers and tunnels. You have the impression the cave goes on for kilometers. It doesn't of course but to explore it all, takes a good amount of time.
As with many caves colored lighting increases your sensory experience and enjoyment. Parts of the cave you must observe and respect sacred grounds. You must remove your shoes before venturing near hand. Arrive in the town as early as possible. From Surabaya City, it's only 90 minutes by private taxi. Instruct the driver to drop you off at Gajah Mada Street.
Light, loose-fitting clothing.
It will often rain throughout Java and Indonesia if it's the rainy season. But don't fret, reach for an anorak. It will still be hot and humid, nonetheless. You should prepare for rain and even if there isn't any, wear a waterproof jacket anyway. If you are trekking a volcano, pack warm clothing, it's a lot cooler at those heights. Chances are you may be on a two-day, one night trek.
So be sure there is a sleeping bag with your rented camping tent and gear.
The Island of Java is of volcanic origin. In the east of Java alone there are over a dozen volcanoes, many of them active. There are three in particular that stick out as being firm favorites for the traveler:
All three are active. It's very fortunate actually that Mount Ijen is active. That's because it's one of very few places on Earth with dazzling blue flames. Take a night tour to Mount Ijen for a brief glimpse of these amazing flames. The gases seeping from fissures ignite resulting in a lightshow like none other.
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What you see is nothing in the pitch blackness of night. Only the momentary flickers of flame. What can we say? The atmosphere is electric. People from all over the world come to see this show. This is a once in a lifetime only event.
You must take a gas mask with you and wear it for your own protection against Sulphur and other toxic gases. Not doing so is completely reckless to your own health. Most tour operators should provide you with a mask so be sure to check this detail before going ahead.
We have another guide about trekking Indonesia's volcanoes (link below). But what makes Mount Bromo Indonesia's number one volcanic experience? The same what makes Mount Rinjani on Lombok Island, popular, and Mount Batur on Bali, popular:
As big a thrill it can be, you are trekking through dense rainforest jungle and moving past villages. You enjoy sights of farmers tending their land, their rice terraces on your ascent. A volcano tour in Indonesia usually means two or three-days trekking and camping out. Does that sound like a great adventure you would like to sink your teeth into? We thought so.
Any time under the night sky with the heavens above is a dream adventure. Two things about trekking an Indonesian volcano are most enjoyable.
Camping out on a volcano slope beneath the stars. The stillness and feeling of being alone. Stories shared around the campfire, creates friendships. Sleeping in complete darkness is eerie and unsettling.
Seeing the stars above you, they appear so bright and pure. It may even be a life-changing experience. Because how many more volcanoes will you conquer? For most of us the answer is no more. During the day, you encounter cloud cover. As dense as the rainforest far below you, clouds surround you as far as the eye can see. How many times are you likely to have that experience? Be honest.
And therein lies why Mount Bromo and all the other volcanoes of Indonesia are popular.
In our opinion Mount Ijen offers the best holiday adventure experience. Once you've experienced the blue flames you keep ascending the next morning. Your trek doesn't stop, not until you get to the crater and lake.
Read Also: 5 Best Volcano Jungle Treks in Indonesia
The beaches are bare and naked of human activity, we found. It's a given certainty when you travel to east Java you will have them to yourself too:
Indonesia's beaches are very nice. The waters are clear and warm but they're nothing like those on Bali or Lombok or elsewhere. There is not a lot to do except walking and swimming, and to relax enjoying the peacefulness. They're both perfect excuses for a stop when on a road trip. To be honest you are glad of a rocky, sandy beach to stretch out on and explore.
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Got camping gear packed? Stake out your spot and build your camp before dark. Both beaches feel very Javanese in nature. And no commercialization encroaching upon the lives of local people. It's great to be far from the crowds, and all part of that Java adventure you've wanted.
Related Reading: 25 Most Beautiful Holiday Beaches in Indonesia
The small Island of Menjangan may be on the east of Java but to the west is Bali. What keeps these two Islands apart is 8km of sea water. And in fact, it's one of Bali's best kept secrets.
The Island falls under the Bali Barat National Park which includes a marine reserve. This reserve is what protects the multitude of coral reefs and fish species. Due to the snorkeling and diving spots around the Island, the reserve is essential. To that end you will need a permit and guide to visit the Island. You can buy both from the park office at Labuhan Lalang.
The permit is less than one dollar, but the guide could set you back US$25.
The Island itself feels secluded and remote, a world away from the noise and drama of Bali. Actually, it could be the ideal steppingstone for you to tour east Java for a few days, couldn't it? Those waterfalls are amazing and well worth visiting. Indonesia by the way is renowned for having incredible waterfall experiences, you can believe that.
To find yourself in Pemutaran, there is a small port. The port is Labuhan Lalang, from there you must hire a speedboat. It takes 40 minutes from Bali Island to Menjangan Island.
The golden sandy beach on Red Island is unmistakable with a giant rock jutting out of the landscape. It's the perfect place to lose a day on what is a remote Island paradise escape. It's only a 2-hour journey from the city of Banyuwangi. If you are not already in east Java, you can fly in from Bali or Lombok's airport on any domestic flight.
Without any doubt Red Island beach is the best beach on the Island of Java. The bay has a long beach that goes on and on and the water is calm making it perfect for swimming in. The beach is free from clutter: there are no bars or restaurants to spoil this paradise. Coming here is all about rest and relaxation, lounging and swimming and not much else. It's great to get away from the Bali crowds.
It doesn't seem all that exciting, does it? Only three reasons to justify your holiday vacation. But what exceptional experiences each reason results in for your Java holiday:
Coming to east Java is an awesome experience you'll never forget about. It'll keep you dreaming about returning to the volcanic Island. And why not, because there is so much more to uncover in central and west of Java.
It's a little like a Vietnam holiday because once isn't enough. You must travel three times, one time each to the north, central and south. Java is three little worlds wrapped up into one too: east, central and west of the Island.
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Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.