Day 1: The Majestic Tumpak Sewu

The adventure began with an early morning pick-up from my cozy hostel in Malang. As a digital nomad, I often find myself in the company of fellow travelers, and this trip was no exception. I met a group of backpackers from various corners of the world, all eager to explore the natural wonders of Lumajang. Our first stop was the breathtaking Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, a sight that had been on my bucket list for quite some time.

The drive to Tumpak Sewu was a scenic one, with lush greenery and rolling hills setting the stage for what was to come. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our local guide, who led us to the Panorama Tumpak Sewu viewpoint. The view was nothing short of spectacular, with the waterfall cascading down like a curtain of silk. We then embarked on a short trek down to the base of the waterfall, where the misty spray and the roar of the water created an exhilarating atmosphere.

After soaking in the beauty of Tumpak Sewu, we made our way to Tetes Cave, a hidden gem that added an element of mystery to our journey. The cave’s stalactites and stalagmites were a testament to nature’s artistry, and exploring its depths felt like stepping into another world. As the day drew to a close, we headed to our hotel near Bromo, excited for the adventures that awaited us.

Day 2: Sunrise at Bromo

The second day of our tour began in the early hours, with a 3 AM wake-up call that was well worth the effort. We piled into a 4WD jeep and set off for the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, our destination being the famous sunrise viewpoint. The journey through the sea of sand was a bumpy one, but the anticipation of witnessing the sunrise over Mount Bromo kept our spirits high.

As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, the landscape transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The sight of the sun rising over the volcanic peaks was a moment of pure magic, one that I will cherish forever. After capturing countless photos, we descended to the Bromo sea of sand, where we had the opportunity to explore the vast expanse and take in the unique beauty of the area.

Our next stop was the Bromo crater, a short hike from the jeep parking lot. The option to rent a horse was tempting, but I chose to walk, savoring the experience of being so close to the active volcano. Standing at the edge of the crater, with the sulfurous smoke rising from its depths, was both humbling and awe-inspiring. We returned to our hotel for a well-deserved breakfast, our hearts full of the wonders we had witnessed.

Day 3: The Enigmatic Ijen

The final day of our tour took us to the Ijen Crater, a place renowned for its rare blue fire phenomenon. Our journey began at 1 AM, and as we made our way to the crater, the excitement was palpable. Equipped with gas masks for safety, we descended into the crater to witness the mesmerizing blue flames, a sight that felt almost otherworldly.

Climbing back to the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, a fitting end to our adventure. We also had the chance to observe the sulfur miners at work, their resilience and strength a reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to endure.

As we made our way back to the hotel, I reflected on the incredible experiences of the past three days. The Tumpak Sewu, Bromo, and Ijen tour had been a journey of discovery, one that had enriched my soul and left me with memories to last a lifetime. For those seeking a budget-friendly adventure that showcases the natural beauty of Indonesia, this tour is an absolute must-do.