OVERVIEW

Mount Semeru, also known as Mahameru ("Great Mountain"), is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. What stands out most about this mountain is the fact that it erupts periodically

The national park is named after its two mountains, Mount Semeru (the highest in Java at 3,676m), Mount Bromo (the most popular) and the Tengger people who inhabit the area.

Every 20 min or so, the volcano belches out a huge cloud of steam and smoke, sometimes interspersed with ash and stones. Climbing Mount Semeru can be categorized as easy. The trek is gradually incline, with almost no steep slope to hike except for the part to the summit. Summit day can be quite demanding, climbing steep slopes of sand and scree. It will slide on each step we walk.

Although the mountain is closed since 2019 due to covid and big eruption in December 2021 & December 2022. In December 2024 the mountain reopened, but the climb is only allowed until Lake Ranu Kumbolo. Which is not for nothing, because Ranu Kumbolo is the biggest and has a picturesque view.

Besides Mount Semeru, we can offer you a visit to Mount Bromo as an addition. Mount Bromo (2,329m) is easily recognized as the entire top has been blown off and the crater inside constantly belches white sulphurous smoke. It sits inside the massive Tengger caldera (diameter approximately 10 km), surrounded by the Laut Pasir (Sea of Sand) of fine volcanic sand. The overall effect is unsettlingly unearthly, especially when compared to the lush green valleys all around the caldera.

PREPARATION

Summit day on Mount Semeru can be quite demanding, so you need to train your cardiovascular capability. You can do running two to three times a week for 45 minutes to an hour per session. Running on a route that have elevation gain will be a lot better, or use treadmill if there’s no such terrain in your hometown. You can change one of your running sessions in a week with cycling or swimming and especially you need to do also stair climbing with at least 10kg pack. It will be a good cross training. Besides that, muscle training is advisable. Strengthen your upper and lower body muscle, as well core muscle. You can do it at the gym or do your own set of push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, plank, etc. You need to train 3 months prior to the expedition. It will increase the rate of success.

GEAR LIST