Approaching the Dangerous Wonderland of Ijen Volcano Complex

 

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There are certain things we should be running from, like from an erupting volcano for example. However, that isn’t what’s happening in the Ijen Volcano Complex. Instead of away, people are running towards the lava-spewing volcano, because of its absolutely whimsical panorama – it shows just how much of a sucker we are for beautiful things. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready your backpacks because this place will set your compass moving.

LOCATION

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Banyuwangi Regency of East Java, Indonesia cradles the famous Ijen Volcano Complex. There are two big rims in the area and the Ijen Complex is inside that much larger caldera Ijen.

The complex is made up of stratovolcanoes, but the whole area (larger caldera) extends at 20 kilometers wide with an elevation of 2, 799 meters. The vicinity is composed of rugged terrains with big boulders jutting at the greenery hugging the area.

CLIMATE

It is better to visit the area during the dry season, since the east part of Java Indonesia, which is the mountainous region, could get wetter than the west due to higher amount of rainfall. It enjoys a tropical climate with temperature ranging from 22 to 29 degrees Celsius.

But apart from the general climate of wet season (October to April) and dry season (May to September). Another thing to watch out for – and is very important – is the activity of the volcano complex itself. Be sure to be updated if you’re planning a trip, since the volcano could be spewing massive lava during that time and is restricted.

TRANSPORTATION

The nearest airport that serves international flights is in the municipality of Surabaya called Juanda International Airport. It is 39.34 kilometers from Banyuwangi.

Once you are in Banyuwangi, you can travel to Ijen through car rentals, which will take about 55 minutes of your time. However, if you plan on trekking the place, it will take around eight hours.

Reaching the crater lake is another trip in itself, which you have to travel by foot.

ATTRACTION

The Stunning View of Kawah Ijen Crater

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You must first climb an altitude of 500 meters and walk 3 kilometers from the ticketing office in order to see this view. But those are most likely forgotten when you finally got to see this rewarding scene.

Acrid yellow gas, acid lake with rising sulfur plumes, lifeless and scarce greenery, you’ll think you can finally imagine if the entrance to hell could be anything like this.

The Acid Lake of Kawah Ijen

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Here’s a man taking a pH reading of the crater lake; however, don’t copy him by not wearing mask. The acid lake, which is about 0.5 pH, is filled with sulfuric and hydrochloric acid.

But, before you go down from your spot above the lake, don’t ever forget to wear masks, as not wearing one is detrimental to health.

On a much joyful note, the deadly water of about 200 meters deep could be touched. The surface temperature ranges from 50 to 60 degrees Celsius, but the depths could be as hot as 200 degrees Celsius.

Sulfur Mines

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The mines at Kawah Ijen are still very much active today. It is a very dangerous work for locals due to health issues brought by the gases the crater is emitting.

This job has been alive for 40 years where, the locals slice cooled sulfur and brings it back to the village.

The Blue Lava

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Best seen at night, his electric blue lava is what’s making the tourists to go on this dangerous path. Never mind the heat, because this stunning sight, emerging from the cracks at 600 degrees Celsius, is really worth it all.

On the last note, be sure you’re all packed with protective suits, face masks, and knowledge before you go traipsing in places such as these.

Images

(1)http://images.says.com/uploads/story/cover_image/13276/c515.jpeg
(2)http://www.volcano.si.edu/volcanoes/region06/java/ijen/3707ije3.jpg
(3)http://media.mnn.com/sites/default/files/user/131413/Ijen-crater-lake.jpg
(4)http://i.ytimg.com/vi/UOUN2hXvn6Y/maxresdefault.jpg
(5)http://www.alphahutte.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/ab_indonesia_2011_p01931.jpg
(6)http://whenonearth.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/blue-lava-kawah-ijen-volcano-woe1.jpg

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