
Ranu Kumbolo Mount Semeru
A serene alpine lake at 2,400m, Ranu Kumbolo is a hiker's paradise on Mount Semeru, offering stunning sunrises and starry nights.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, less rain, great sunrise

Ranu Kumbolo Mount Semeru
Best Time
Clear skies, less rain, great sunrise

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake at 2,400m, Ranu Kumbolo is a hiker's paradise on Mount Semeru, offering stunning sunrises and starry nights.
"The lake view is truly breathtaking. An unforgettable experience, highly recommended for anyone who loves hiking and nature!"

Pack Warm Layers! 🧥
Nights get cold, near freezing! Bring a warm jacket, sleeping bag, and thermal wear.
Permits are Essential! :ticket:
Secure your permits in advance, especially for camping. Check official park regulations.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ranu Kumbolo Lake
Main camping area
A breathtaking alpine lake at 2,400m, surrounded by misty hills and pine forests. A true paradise.

Sunrise Views
Overlooking the lake
Witness a magical sunrise painting the sky between twin hills, a reward for the trek.

Stargazing & Milky Way
Campsite
On clear nights, the sky explodes with stars, offering incredible views of the Milky Way.

Tanjakan Cinta (Love's Ascent)
Trail to Ranu Kumbolo
A challenging yet rewarding uphill section of the trail, often associated with romantic tales.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Prepare for the Ascent
Embrace the Elements: Weather & Best Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Warm Layers! 🧥
Nights get cold, near freezing! Bring a warm jacket, sleeping bag, and thermal wear.
Permits are Essential! :ticket:
Secure your permits in advance, especially for camping. Check official park regulations.
Sturdy Hiking Boots :athletic_shoe:
The trail can be uneven. Good grip and ankle support are crucial for a comfortable trek.
Leave No Trace :recycle:
Pack out all your trash. Keep this beautiful place pristine for everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Warm Layers! 🧥
Nights get cold, near freezing! Bring a warm jacket, sleeping bag, and thermal wear.
Permits are Essential! :ticket:
Secure your permits in advance, especially for camping. Check official park regulations.
Sturdy Hiking Boots :athletic_shoe:
The trail can be uneven. Good grip and ankle support are crucial for a comfortable trek.
Leave No Trace :recycle:
Pack out all your trash. Keep this beautiful place pristine for everyone.
Hydration is Key :water_wave:
Carry enough water or a reliable filter. Staying hydrated is vital during the hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ranu Kumbolo is overwhelmingly praised as a breathtakingly beautiful hiking and camping spot, offering unforgettable sunrise views and spectacular stargazing. While the trek is manageable, visitors emphasize the need for preparation regarding cold weather and bringing all necessary supplies, as facilities are minimal. The serene alpine lake and the sense of accomplishment make it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers.
"Ranu Kumbolo is the most beautiful hiking spot I’ve experienced so far. The trek is easy with 4 resting posts along the way, and the lake view is truly breathtaking. I was lucky to see Mt. Semeru erupting in the distance, and at night the sky was so clear that I could see the Milky Way. An unforgettable experience, highly recommended for anyone who loves hiking and nature! 🌌⛺️🌄"
Masela Fadjar Pratiwi
"Memories in 2016 poping up because I once hiked with my deceased bestfriend. Semeru with its peak called Mahameru is one of the favorite mountains of the people on the Java Island, and Ranukumbolo Lake at 2.390mdpl/masl is a favorite of almost all climbers.
Enjoy adventure, hiking, camping, and enjoying the perfect sunrise against the backdrop of a painting-like valley lake.
If you are lucky, you will get the sunrise, but sometimes the fog is very thick.
Four hours walk to conquer around 12 km long trail from Ranu Pane, it all pays off with this amazing view. The best time to visit is from the end of May until the end of August where the sun is in the northern hemisphere so there is no rain in this area as well as most of Java island."
Putri Dumadi
"The best sunrise moment I’ve ever experienced! Near freezing temperatures at dawn, so water of the lake is vaporizing. Six hours walking to conquer 12 km path from Ranu Pane, is all paid-off with this breathtaking views. Best time to visit from end of May to end of August where the sun is at northern hemisphere thus no rain in this area as well as most of Java island"
Gustiawan Godi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Surabaya, take a bus or train to Malang. From Malang, hire a car or take a public transport to Tumpang, then continue to Ranu Pane village, the starting point of the trek. The hike from Ranu Pane to Ranu Kumbolo takes about 4-6 hours.
The trek to Ranu Kumbolo begins at Ranu Pane village, located within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. This is where you'll register and begin your hike.
No, Ranu Kumbolo is only accessible by foot. The journey involves a hike from Ranu Pane, which is the closest point reachable by vehicle.
The hike from Ranu Pane to Ranu Kumbolo is approximately 12 km and typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Yes, you can find shared taxis or rent a car in Malang to get to Ranu Pane. Public buses are also an option but may take longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required to enter Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and to trek to Ranu Kumbolo, especially if you plan to camp. It's advisable to check the latest regulations and book in advance.
Ranu Kumbolo is generally accessible 24/7 as it's part of a national park. However, park offices for registration and permit issuance have specific operating hours.
Entrance fees vary and typically include a national park entrance fee and potentially a camping fee. It's best to check the official park website for current pricing.
While some permits might be obtainable on arrival, it's highly recommended to secure them in advance, especially for camping, to guarantee your spot and avoid last-minute issues.
There are no strict age restrictions, but visitors should have a good physical condition to complete the hike. Parents should assess their children's capabilities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include hiking, camping by the lake, enjoying the stunning sunrise and sunset views, stargazing, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Yes, camping is a popular activity at Ranu Kumbolo. There's a designated camping area near the lake. Remember to bring your own camping gear.
Temperatures can drop significantly at night, often near freezing (around 5°C or lower). Daytime temperatures are more moderate but can still be cool.
Basic facilities like toilets are usually available near the camping area. However, there are no shops, so you must bring all your food, water, and supplies.
While Ranu Kumbolo offers views of Mount Semeru, seeing an eruption is not guaranteed and depends on volcanic activity. It's a rare but spectacular sight.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food stalls at Ranu Kumbolo. You must bring all your food and drinks for the duration of your stay.
Pack non-perishable, high-energy foods like instant noodles, canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and plenty of water. Consider easy-to-cook meals if you have a portable stove.
Yes, if you bring a portable camping stove and fuel, you can cook your meals at the campsite. Ensure you follow park regulations regarding fires.
You can buy food and supplies in Malang or Tumpang before heading to Ranu Pane. Ranu Pane village might have very limited options.
If you plan to cook, yes, you'll need to bring your own portable stove, fuel, pots, utensils, and cleaning supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise is magical, painting the sky and lake with color. Sunset also offers beautiful light. Clear nights are perfect for astrophotography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A tripod is essential for sunrise/sunset and night shots. Don't forget extra batteries, as it gets cold.
The lake itself, the surrounding hills, Tanjakan Cinta, and the campsite offer fantastic photo opportunities. The view of Mount Semeru from the trail is also iconic.
Drone usage might be restricted within national parks. Always check the latest park regulations regarding drones before flying.
Expect stunning landscape shots of the lake, misty mountains, dramatic sunrises, starry night skies, and the challenging beauty of the trek itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎒 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ranu Kumbolo Trek Experience
Many visitors highlight the sense of accomplishment and the profound connection with nature that the trek fosters. The transition from the dense forest to the open, misty landscape surrounding Ranu Kumbolo is particularly striking. The air grows cooler, and the sounds of the forest give way to a serene quietude. The visual payoff at the end of the hike is immense, with the tranquil lake appearing like a jewel nestled amidst the volcanic landscape. It's a journey that tests your endurance but ultimately offers a deeply rewarding experience, both physically and mentally.
Camping and Overnight Stays
It's crucial to practice responsible camping. This means packing out everything you pack in, leaving no trace of your presence. Visitors are reminded that there are no shops or extensive facilities, so self-sufficiency is key. Bringing enough food, water, and fuel for cooking is essential. The quiet solitude of the night, punctuated only by the sounds of nature, offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Many travelers cherish the memories made during their overnight stays, often describing it as a magical and rejuvenating experience.
The Magic of Sunrise and Stargazing
Beyond the sunrise, Ranu Kumbolo is renowned for its incredible stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, far from light pollution, the sky transforms into a dazzling canvas of stars. Many visitors report seeing the Milky Way with astonishing clarity, an experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. This celestial show adds another layer of magic to the Ranu Kumbolo experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking natural wonders.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit