How to Go from Bali to Ijen Crater: Bus, Motorcycle, or Tours

Bali is Indonesia’s most popular tourist destination and a key gateway for international travellers. If you’re planning a trip from Bali to Mount Ijen, one of the most famous and most visited volcanoes in Indonesia, you’re in the right place. This guide will help you find the best way to travel from Bali to Mount Ijen

The distance from Bali (tourist area like Ubud or Denpasar) to Mount Ijen is approximately 150 — 200 km, depending on your route, with a travel time of around 6 hours, including a ferry crossing from Bali to Java. Despite the journey, traveling from Bali to Ijen is a popular route thanks to the breathtaking sunrise views and unique volcanic landscape.

There are several transportation options available, including bus, private tours, shared transport, overland trips, making it easy to plan your Bali to Ijen journey based on your budget and travel style.

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Bus from Bali to Mount Ijen Basecamp

Going from Bali to Ijen Crater by public transport is feasible. First, you should take the bus from Mengwi Bus Terminal, it is the main bus terminal in Bali. To be easier for you, wherever you are in Bali, you can take an online taxi like Gojek or Grab to take you to Mengwi Bus Terminal. You could easily buy the bus ticket on the spot. If you want to buy the ticket in advance, you can book it via Traveloka Apps. It will cost IDR 160.000 until Ketapang Port, it is already included with the ferry cost.

There are several bus operators to take you to Banyuwangi City, here is the option : M Trans, Handoyo, and Ladju Trans. The trip will take around 6 hours journey including ferry crossing from Bali to Java Island. You can just stop at the ferry terminal in Java side.

Our suggestion, take the morning bus from Bali around 07 or 08 AM then you will arrive at Ketapang Port around 12 PM. As a reminder, there is 1 hour difference between Java and Bali Island. You should stay at the hotel in Banyuwangi City because the next shuttle to Ijen Trekking Basecamp will depart after 22.00 PM. I do not recommend you to start the journey in the afternoon from Bali then hiking in Ijen directly without taking a rest. Hiking to Ijen Crater requires a strong physically, and you will start trekking around 1.30 AM. Staying at the hotel in Banyuwangi City before hiking to Ijen Crater will be really help you to be more relaxed. 

The basecamp of Ijen is called Paltuding Basecamp. You can go from Banyuwangi City to Paltuding Basecamp by shuttle called DAMRI. By the time I write this article, the Damri Shuttle will cost only IDR 20.000. There are several departure points in Banyuwangi City. To be easier for you, select the Banyuwangi Train Station (BWI), it will depart at 23.40 PM.

Damri Shuttle should be booked in advance at least 3 days before your adventure since it is the cheapest option and getting more famous among tourist especially local tourists. To book the shuttle from Banyuwangi, you should download the DAMRI Apps, no website available, only apps.

If you missed this shuttle, you can book a shared transport back to back from Banyuwangi City. Normally the hostels or guesthouses in Banyuwangi City could offer this service. The price will be in range of IDR 150.000 to IDR 300.000.

Bali to Mount Ijen Basecamp by Motorcycle

If you think you are expert enough to ride a motorcycle in Indonesia, then going from Bali to Ijen by motorcycle can be your option. It is very easy to rent a bike in Bali. You can easily find it in tourist street or just ask the hostel staff, they will be happy to assist you to rent a bike.

The cost of renting a bike is around IDR 100.000 to IDR 200.000 per day depends on the type of bike. I will suggest you to rent at least 150 CC bike like Yamaha Nmax or Honda PCX, never take the smaller bike. The terrain in Ijen is hard and curvy. Make sure you get a proper bike before starting the journey. 

Check the brakes, tyre, and petrol. You should fill up the petrol starting from Bali then also once you get to Banyuwangi City before start to go up to the basecamp. You will ride the bike from Banyuwangi City to the basecamp in the middle of the night in the curvy road with plantations or jungle in the side, so do not expect that somebody will sell you a petrol. Also if possible, ask somebody to go with you if you are a solo traveller to be more safe.

You should start the bike trip from Bali in the morning around 7-8 Am to give you more time to relax. By this plan, you will arrive in Banyuwangi City around 12 PM. To cross from Gilimanuk Port to Ketapang Port with motorcycle is around IDR 50.000. 

You can also combine the bus trip with renting motorbike. You can go from Bali to Banyuwangi City by bus, then renting a motor bike once you have arrived in Banyuwangi. Personally I will choose this option. 

From Paltuding Basecamp to Ijen Crater 

Paltuding Basecamp is located at approximately 1,850 meters above sea level. It’s accessible by car or motorbike, usually from Banyuwangi (about 1.5 hours) or Bondowoso (around 2 hours).

Most hikers start their journey very early—often around midnight to 2:00 AM—especially if they want to witness the rare blue fire before sunrise.

The Trail to the Ijen Crater

The hike from Paltuding to the crater rim is about 3 kilometers and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace.

The trail is wide and well-defined, making it suitable even for beginners with decent fitness. However, don’t underestimate it—the incline is steady and can be quite tiring, especially in the dark.

What to Expect Along the Way:

• Gradual but consistent uphill climb
• Rocky and sandy terrain
• Cool mountain temperatures (around 10–15°C)
• Sulfur smell as you approach the crater

You’ll also encounter local sulfur miners carrying heavy loads from the crater—a humbling and eye-opening experience.

Reaching the Crater Rim

Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the turquoise acidic lake—one of the largest of its kind in the world.

At sunrise, the scenery becomes even more magical as the golden light hits the crater walls and lake surface.

Descending into the Crater (Optional)

For those seeking a more intense experience, you can hike down into the crater to witness the famous blue fire.

This section is steep and rocky, taking about 30–45 minutes to descend. It’s highly recommended to:

•Wear proper hiking shoes

•Use a gas mask (due to strong sulfur fumes)

•Follow a local guide for safety

The Blue Fire Phenomenon

One of Ijen’s biggest attractions is the rare blue fire, visible only in darkness. This natural phenomenon is caused by ignited sulfuric gases, creating electric-blue flames that glow in the night.

It’s one of only a few places in the world where you can see this.

Tips for a Successful Hike

•Start early: For blue fire, begin around midnight

•Bring a flashlight or headlamp

•Wear layered clothing: It gets cold at the top

•Use a gas mask: Essential if descending into the crater

•Stay hydrated

•Hire a guide if unsure

What cost to prepare to hike Ijen

• Ijen National Park Entrance Fee : IDR 150.000
• Medical Certificate : IDR 40.000
• Insurance : IDR 20.000
• Gas Mask : IDR 35.000
• Head Lamp : IDR 35.000
• Guide (really recommended) :IDR 250.000 per group (3 people).

Medical certificate should be obtained while you are in Banyuwangi City in a local clinic. It is just to make sure that you are physically fit to hike Ijen due to steep terrain. and toxic gas. 

Here is the list of clinics that can provide Health Certificate :

• Shinta Clinic
• Yasmin Hospital
• Brawijaya Clinic
• Prambanan Clinic
• Puskesmas Mojopanggung

Bali to Mount Ijen by Tours

After exploring the different ways to travel from Bali to Ijen Crater by public transport, you’ve probably realized that while it’s absolutely possible, it requires time, patience, and careful coordination. From arranging ferries and local buses to managing unpredictable schedules and late-night transfers, the journey can be an adventure on its own—but not always the most relaxing one.

If your goal is to fully enjoy the experience of Ijen—especially the famous blue fire, the sunrise over the crater, and the unique sulfur mining landscape—then choosing a guided tour can be a much smarter and more comfortable option. Instead of worrying about logistics, delays, or missing connections, you can focus entirely on the experience itself.

A well-organized tour typically includes private transport, ferry crossings, experienced local drivers, and a knowledgeable guide who understands the terrain and timing needed to reach the crater safely. This is especially important for Ijen, where the hike starts very early in the morning and conditions can change quickly. Having everything arranged for you means you’ll arrive on time, well-rested, and ready to fully appreciate one of Indonesia’s most unique natural wonders.

Beyond convenience, a tour also adds value through local insight. Guides can share stories about the history of the volcano, explain the sulfur mining process, and ensure you take the best routes for both safety and views. For many travellers, this transforms the trip from just a hike into a deeper, more meaningful experience.

It’s also worth considering the overall cost. While public transport may seem cheaper at first, the combined expenses of multiple tickets, accommodations, and the risk of unexpected delays can quickly add up. A tour, on the other hand, offers a clear, all-in-one price—saving you both time and potential stress.

If you’re looking for a seamless, well-organized journey from Bali to Ijen, you can explore professionally arranged tour options at MountBromoIjen.com. The platform offers carefully designed itineraries that combine efficiency, comfort, and authentic local experiences—ideal for travellers who want to make the most of their time without the hassle of planning every detail.

Check also all the package that start from Bali to East Java

In the end, whether you choose the independent route or a guided tour depends on your travel style. But if you value convenience, safety, and a richer experience, booking a tour is undoubtedly the easiest way to turn your Ijen trip into a truly unforgettable adventure.

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