Facts Ijen Volcano: Knowing The Amazing And Unexpected Facts
Facts Ijen Volcano, East Java – Facts and Information
The Ijen Volcano complex is a big deal in terms of geology. The Ijen Geopark encompasses the entire regency, showcasing a diverse array of geological, biological, and cultural sites. It was added to the UNESCO Global Geopark list in 2023. Ijen Volcano is well-known overseas for its blue fire charm. There are still a few interesting facts Ijen Volcano in East Java, Indonesia. Curious? Let’s move on to the next section.
READ ALSO: Ijen UNESCO Global Geopark: A Journey Into Earth’s History
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The Captivating Blue Flame of Ijen Volcano: A Natural Marvel
There are only two places in the world that have a blue fire phenomenon, namely Ijen in Indonesia and Mount Dallol in Ethiopia. This phenomenon is precisely located in the Ijen Tourism Park Nature Conservation area of Bondowoso Regency, East Java.
The best time to see the blue flames is from 2 to 4 a.m., as the Ijen Volcano hike opens at 2 a.m. One interesting facts Ijen Volcano is that the blue fire can be seen with the naked eyes when there is no light.
Furthermore, you can also enjoy a complex view of the Ijen Mountains. There are also Mount Raung, Mount Marapi, Mount Rante, and Mount Suket.
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The Ijen Crater: A Natural Wonder with a Diameter of Approximately One Kilometer
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Ijen Crater is a natural wonder that shows the geological and volcanic activity in the region. One of the facts Ijen Volcano is that the Ijen Crater has a diameter of about 1 kilometer and a depth of 175 meters. The bottom is covered by warm, milky blue-green water.
It is also the largest highly acidic crater lake in the world. The pH is less than 0.5, making it highly corrosive and dangerous to touch. The lake is located within a larger caldera, about 20 kilometers wide, and is part of the Ijen volcanic complex. The magnitude of the Ijen Crater adds to the drama of its natural wonder.
The Unyielding Sulfur Miners of Ijen Caldera: A Testament to Human Resilience
The Ijen volcanic complex is also home to sulfur mining operations. Miners carry heavy loads of sulfur across steep terrain and breathe in air rich in volcanic gases. The sulfur is transported entirely on foot, often barefoot. The men carry loads of up to 70 kg each to the crater rim and then 17 km down the mountainside to the factory near Banyuwangi.
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The path to Pondok Bunder, where the sulfur haulers are located, is about 3 meters wide. You can watch them haul and weigh their loads of sulfur there. So, if you’re just taking a leisurely stroll, you don’t need really need a guide.
If you want to see the porters struggling to carry 75-90 kg loads, you can stop by at the saddle of the crater rim of the lookout point to see the sulfur pit. These miners carry two baskets on their shoulders while climbing the steep crater wall. Then, they go downhill for about 3 kilometers to the sulfur collection point. Most porters make the trip twice a day.
Moreover, in recent years, many sulfur haulers have been using specially made trolleys to carry loads of sulfur. The inventor of this trolley is Heinz von Holzen, and it was funded by many parties. The existence of the trolley makes the work of the sulfur haulers easier. However, sometimes there are tourists who use the trolley to get to Ijen Crater, either because they are too lazy to walk or because they cannot walk far.
Ijen Caldera’s Unique Coffee Heritage: Aromatic and Flavorful Arabica Beans
The Ijen Caldera is a volcanic caldera on the easternmost tip of Java Island. It has stunning crater lakes and sulfur mining operations, as well as thriving coffee plantations. The fertile soil was formed by weathering of pyroclastic deposits over thousands of years. The rich volcanic soil and favorable climate produce high-quality coffee.
The Ijen Caldera is about 20 kilometers wide and the high altitude makes it an ideal environment for Arabica coffee plantations. The resulting Arabica coffee is called Ijen Coffee or Ijen Raung Coffee since 1978. The flavor and aroma of Ijen coffee are distinctive. This is because Ijen Volcano is hit by sulfuric acid air and contains sea salt acid.
Plus, there are lots of inns and homestays where you can stay and enjoy the incredible views of the Ijen volcano. You can also experience the local culture and taste a cup of freshly brewed coffee from the region. So, the coffee plantations in Ijen Caldera are a unique aspect of the volcanic ecosystem, giving you a glimpse into the daily lives of local people who live in the harmony with the natural wonders of the Ijen Volcano.
Embark on An Unforgettable Adventure: Unveiling the Captivating Facts Ijen Volcano
So, how can you prove to yourself the interesting facts Ijen Volcano? Well, you’ve got to take a series of trips to reach the crater of Ijen Volcano in Banyuwangi. You can take an economy train to Banyuwangi and get off at Banyuwangi Kota Railway Station. Then, take a motorcycle taxi to Tamansari Village.
Next, you can take a sulfur transportation truck to Paltuding. This is where the main gate of the Ijen Crater Tourism Park Nature Reserve is located. Another route option is Bondowoso – Wonosari – Tapen – Sempol – Paltuding.
Once you enter the main gate, the journey gets quite challenging because the initial 2 km of the track is quite uphill. The slope of the travel path can reach 35 degrees. Then, the sandy soil will make your journey more challenging. Don’t worry, you can rest at the Round Post Stall. This post is unique because of its circular shape. After resting enough, you can continue your journey with a fairly steep and slippery uphill path. However, the next 1 km route is quite gentle. You can also enjoy the view of a row of mountains.
To get to the Ijen Crater, you have to go down a rocky path for 800 meters. It’s also steep, up to 45 degrees. Your stamina must be strong enough to make an adventure to the facts Ijen Volcano.
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Come to A Place Where Nature’s Power Shines!
Ijen Volcano is an amazing place that shows off the power and beauty of nature. You can see blue flames and the world’s largest acid lake, as well as glimpses into the lives of sulfur miners and exploration of vast coffee plantations. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience. By being a responsible visitor and respecting the environment, you can ensure this natural wonder continues to inspire and amaze generations to come.
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