When she manages to get a break from pulling our magazines and annual guides together, Expat Living’s JUDIT GÁL loves nothing more than exploring the slopes of Java’s volcanoes. If you’re interested in hiking in Indonesia, here are some of her insights and tips.
Where have you been hiking in Indonesia?
Mainly in West Sumatra, East Java, and Central Java, which is my absolute favourite. There’s a little town called Selo that has become a home away from home along the years. We (my husband and I) have met wonderful friends there and visit them every time we’re in Central Java.
Why Indonesia?
It was about 15 years ago on the way back from Bali when I saw Gunung Bromo (“gunung” means mountain) from the airplane. The view was breathtaking and I just had to find out more about the area. That ended up being my first hike in Indonesia, and we’ve been going back to its volcanoes ever since.
What has been your favourite hike so far?
Hard to choose, but probably climbing Gunung Sindoro. The scenery was great during the hike, which kept my “semangat” (spirits) up, and it has a beautiful deep crater and fantastic views of the volcanoes of Central Java from its peak. Making one round of the crater is something we won’t forget. It’s a thrilling experience but advisable to reach the peak before 11am as the volcanic smog can get very strong and hazardous.
However, my most beloved mountain is Gunung Merbabu, which we climbed several times using different trails.
What are some important things to know about hiking in Indonesia?
Getting a hiking permit has always been a requirement in Indonesia, and it’s been relatively easy to obtain one at the basecamp on the day before the hike. However, in recent years, the government has introduced new rules for some of the more popular volcanoes. Getting a permit requires online registration beforehand and only a limited number are given for each day.
Some mountains require you to have at least three people in your hiking group, which can be a bit of a challenge when you’re a solo hiker! So do check these rules and regulations when planning your trip. People at the basecamps are very helpful and can assist with online registration if you haven’t booked your hike with an agent.
What are a few more things to note for anyone interested in hiking in Java?
- Mountains can be closed for a period of time for conservation, so it’s always good to have a backup plan (e.g., a different mountain) if you climb during the off-season.
- Try to avoid hiking during weekends and public holidays as it can be extremely crowded with local hikers.
- Getting to the “starting point” of some trails can require a few kilometres of steep hiking through villages and plantations from the basecamp at some of the mountains. If you want to save time and energy, you can take an ojek (motorbike taxi), however, the ride can be more thrilling than the hike itself and it’s not for the fainthearted!
- It’s a good idea to download an offline Indonesian dictionary if you don’t speak the language.
- Get ready to “go local” – and always respect local customs and the mountains.
Is there a best time of the year for hiking in Indonesia?
Yes! From early May till the end of September, the skies are clear and the weather is great. Try to avoid the monsoon season. We’ve hiked in January and March before but you have to prepare for getting soaked in the rain. There can be sudden rainfall and flooding, which is definitely not fun up there and can be dangerous.
What equipment do you use?
I favour trail running shoes – they work well for me. I usually have a running outfit under the hiking clothes, which makes it easy to adjust to changing weather conditions. A few must-have items in the day bag are warm clothes (the weather can change unexpectedly), a hat to protect from the sun, raincoat and rain pants, headlamp, Ziploc bags for phones and valuables, sunscreen, some food and lots of water.
I hike with my husband and we always start off at night, using Strava and GPS to navigate. I find them the most reliable.
What’s a good hike for someone to start with:
#1 Easy to get to and a non challenging, family-friendly hike
From Surabaya: Gunung Bromo – suitable for everyone and the sunrise is astonishing. It won’t be a big hike but it’s a good start.
From Jogjakarta or Semarang:
Gunung Prau, Gunung Bismo, Gunung Andong and Gunung Ungaran for families with bigger kids. We hiked these with our son when he was small. They’re quite a long drive from the city, but day trips with drivers can be arranged if you don’t want to overnight in the area.
#2 Easy to get to and more of a challenge
From Surabaya: Gunung Arjuno and Welirang are great options for a multi day hike in East Java.
#3 Off-the-beaten track with hikes for different levels
I’d say apart from Gunung Bromo, most of Java’s mountains are off-the beaten track for us foreigners. You’ll pass through wonderful countryside, paddy fields and villages with amazing mountain views, staying at small lovely homestays and eating local food.
#4 Off-the-beaten track and considered very difficult
That will be Gunung Raung in East Java. You’ll need a guide, proper climbing equipment and plenty of courage.
Where would you like to go hiking in Indonesia next?
Gunung Slamet is the one that I haven’t ticked off the list in Central Java.
What is your favourite hike in Hong Kong?
That is a tough question! Hong Kong is definitely one of the best places in Asia to hike with countless trails from easy to challenging paths. If I had to pick one, it would be Cheung Shan in Tai O, Lantau – though I have to admit, strong winds prevented me from going all the way up to the summit during my last visit, giving a good reason to return soon!
Why do you like hiking?
After some injuries, I had to stop running and slow things down. Walking and hiking are very enjoyable now; they are easier on the knees and a wonderful way to connect with nature.
Useful online resources:
- gunungbagging.com
- @exploregunung_
- Instagram sites of basecamps of the mountains you plan to hike
This article first appeared in the March 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
