Are you an adventurous soul looking for new terrain to explore? Or, are you the type to explore local culture during your travels? Well, Mount Bromo has both—this active volcano offers both wild beauty and the rich culture of the Tenggerese people, all in one place.
There are a lot of activities you’ll get to do here, from watching the vibrant sunrise from the mountaintop to bumpy Jeep rides overlooking various stunning views! It’s a journey of a lifetime, one you likely won’t forget any time soon.
Excited to put Mount Bromo on your must-visit list? To make things easier, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about Mount Bromo: location, how to access it, and all the fun activities you can do there!
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Where is Mount Bromo?
Photo: Adrian Hartanto via Unsplash
In the heart of East Java, there lies Mount Bromo—a part of the Tengger massif, a highland plateau surrounded by several volcanoes in the Bromo Tengger Semeru. Mount Bromo is located 2,329 meters above sea level and offers a dramatic landscape at the summit, making it a popular spot for travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Mount Bromo is surrounded by a vast caldera, a result of an ancient eruption. The mountain remains active until now, though the conditions are relatively stable and eruptions are always closely monitored by the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation. So don’t hesitate to start planning your trip, you can always check for predictions on the local news!
What’s more, you can reach Mount Bromo rather easily from other big cities around the area. Check out all the routes you can take to get there:
- From Malang: You can drive a private vehicle or rent one to get to Mount Bromo. The drive will take around 2.5-3 hours if you follow the route from Malang to Tumpang, then Gubugklakah, Jemplang, until you reach Bromo’s main entrance — Cemoro Lawang.
- From Surabaya: The journey from here is more flexible; you can either drive or use public transportation to get there. It can take up to 3-4 hours, but keep in mind that if you take public transportation such as a bus or a train, then you would have to take a transit in Probolinggo. Then, continue the journey by renting a Jeep or minivan to Cemoro Lawang.
- From Probolinggo: Considered as the most direct route, the journey from Probolinggo only takes around 1.5-2 hours. You can either drive or share a minibus with other travelers to get there. Be sure to follow the path from Probolinggo to Ngadisari, then Sukapura, until you arrive at Cemoro Lawang.
Once you arrive at Cemoro Lawang, you only have to cross the Sea of Sand before eventually arriving at the Mount Bromo site. Be sure to have your camera ready, it’ll be quite an unforgettable journey.
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7 Top Mount Bromo Spots to Visit
1. Kingkong Hill
Photo: Naufal Ardi Santoso via Unsplash
Kingkong Hill got its name from the unique topography of the hill. The rock formation is shaped like that of a Kingkong, the giant monkey we are all familiar with.
This hill has become one of the most popular spots to visit in Mount Bromo. You’ll only have to go through a short 200-meter hike up a gentle slope. Once you get there, you’ll be 2,700 above sea level, from which you can watch a stunning sunrise peek over the horizon.
2. Mentigen Hill
If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to the more crowded viewpoints, Mentigen Hill is a hidden gem worth adding to your list. Located around 1 km from Cemoro Lawang, this spot is perfect for travelers who want an easy walk without missing out on the picturesque mountain landscape.
Similar to Kingkong Hill, Mentigen Hill is also one of the spots where you can watch an incredible sunrise that colors the sky. The sun usually starts peeking out at around 05.00 local time, so be sure to start your journey before then to fully take in the scenery.
3. Bromo Crater
Photo: Tomáš Malík via Unsplash
For those with a more adventurous streak, Bromo Crater offers a balance of exciting exploration and beautiful nature. You can get there through a few options, like on foot, by jeep, or—most exciting of all—by horse!
From up close, you can see the unique natural phenomenon of the crater for yourself. Be sure to take the time to fully admire the view of smoke billowing out of the crater and the smell of sulfur in the air; it’s certainly an out-of-this-world experience.
Read Also: From Mental Clarity to Physical Fitness: The Incredible Benefits of Hiking
4. Pura Luhur Poten Bromo
Photo: Hebert Kostan via Unsplash
On the way to Bromo Crater, you’ll most likely pass Pura Luhur Poten Bromo. Not only is it beautiful, but it also still actively serves as a prayer site for Tenggerese people who practice Hinduism.
Pura Luhur Poten Bromo is a symbol of Tenggerese cultural and historical richness. The Tenggerese people still use ancient Javanese language daily and carry out traditional rituals in the temple.
The temple’s architecture reflects key Hindu beliefs, particularly the reverence for the sunrise. That explains why the worship space is often aligned to face east.
5. Sea of Sand
Photo: Rachel Heng via Unsplash
Feels like entering the world of Dune (2021)! This area of Mount Bromo offers a desert-like charm as far as the eye can see, quite unique considering Indonesia’s tropical weather.
As a way to fully explore the vast sandy area, horse-riding has become a favorite local attraction here. Or, you can join a jeep tour to explore more challenging terrains.
6. Love Hill
Yet another spot to watch the sunrise. The hill gets its name due to its shape, resembling the heart symbol, making it a more romantic option fit for couples who travel together!
Located 2,680 meters above sea level, the spot offers a clear view of all the mountains around Mount Bromo. It includes Mount Kursi, Mount Widodaren, Watangan, and Mount Semeru, as the highest mountain in Java.
Read Also: Your Full-Day Guide to a Sustainable Trip in Malang
7. Teletubbies Hill
Photo: Aang Irawan via Unsplash
Everyone who grew up watching the kids’ series Teletubbies (1997) will be able to see the resemblance! This savanna has around 382 hectares of tall grass to explore, creating a serene atmosphere that can help you fully let go of your worries.
Just be sure to immortalize your visit by taking aesthetic pictures here! You can even make it fun by dressing up for the occasion.
Fully Embrace Nature at Bobocabin
Photo: Bobobox Internal Asset
Want to explore more natural wonders in Malang? Bobocabin Coban Rondo is surrounded by tall tree lines and located near one of East Java’s most majestic waterfalls.
Aside from enjoying the crisp morning air and cooling water, you can also enjoy the facilities Bobocabin has to offer. From cozy cabins equipped with high-tech features to exciting tour packages that include ATV adventure, safari fun off-road, and even rafting adventure!
Wanna know the best part? Bob is currently holding Bobobox Travel Week, offering great deals for all lucky travelers. Be sure to join a daily lucky draw starting from June 16-30, 2025, for a chance to win enticing surprises. So be sure to stay tuned and don’t miss any great deals by downloading the Bobobox app here.
Article author: Sheila Lalita
Featured photo: Bagus Yoga via Unsplash
