Indonesia Surabaya Nanny Guide: Trusted J People for Reliable Childcare 📣

Hidden here are the same volcanic wonders that grace the cover of Lonely Planet, a real-life Jurassic waterfall, hardcore hiking trails in Southeast Asia, and a Citywalk with a Nanyang flair… Junjun has been up all night to compile this comprehensive guide for Surabaya, so be sure to like 👍🏻 and save it!

🌋 Volcano Section
❶ Bromo Volcano
✨ The iconic volcano featured on the cover of Lonely Planet, where the sunrise over a sea of clouds and the lunar-like landscape will leave you breathless!
⏰ Depart at 3 AM, and don’t forget your windbreaker! It can get quite windy at the crater.
📍 For the best view, head to King Kong Hill.

❷ Ijen
💙 Step into the surreal blue fire realm, a real-life “Game of Ice and Fire.”
⚠ Must bring a gas mask! The sulfur fumes can be quite pungent.

❸ Semeru (Semeru) Volcano
🏡 Nestled on a rural path, surrounded by lush rice fields, Semeru is the highest peak on Java Island, offering a serene and picturesque photo opportunity.

💦 Waterfalls & Rainforest
❹ Sewu Waterfall
📸 Aerial drone shots of the “thousand-layer waterfall” are absolutely stunning. Wear river-crossing shoes and bring a waterproof bag for the best experience.

❺ Madakaripura Waterfall
A hidden gem, this pristine waterfall stands about 200 meters high, with a massive volume of water cascading down the cliff face, creating a mesmerizing sight.

➏ Lord of the Rings Forest
🌳 Enter a Middle-earth version of a tropical rainforest! Ancient trees towering over 10 meters high create a magical atmosphere.
👗 Light-colored long dresses are perfect for photos! Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the most enchanting moments.

🦁 Must-visit for families
➐ Indonesia Wildlife Park: A real-life Zootopia where you can get up close and personal with wild animals.

🚗 Transportation Guide: Use Grab for convenient and affordable city taxis, and even order food. For the waterfall area, it’s recommended to hire a car for a more comfortable and flexible experience.

🚶 Citywalk Route
Tunjungan Plaza → Chinatown → Sogo Mall → Atrium Plaza
📷 Explore vintage buildings, Instagrammable cafes, and bustling local night markets all in one go.

🍚 Must-try Food Map
📍 Tunjungan Street Night Market: Enjoy Rujak fruit salad and Soto Ayam chicken soup.
🦞 Seafood lovers must visit Layar seafood: Try the salted egg yolk crab and coconut ice for a unique flavor.
☕ Coffee enthusiasts should check out Kopi Gula Aren for a delicious palm sugar latte.

🍥 IBC Pondok Tempo Doeloe: A charming Indonesian restaurant.
🍚 Loccahands: Don’t miss their highly recommended bone marrow beef rice.
🌋 Lawangwangi Cafe: A popular volcano-themed cafe.
🥑 Gubuk Makan: Dine in a glasshouse amidst the rice fields for a unique dining experience.

🔎 8-day itinerary reference
D1: Domestic → Bali
D2: Bali → Surabaya → Bromo
D3: Watch the sunrise at Bromo volcano → Stay at an Ijen hotel
D4: Explore the blue fire and blue lake of Ijen volcano → Banyuwangi port → Bali
D5: Dolphin watching in Lovina → Visit Ulun Danu Temple → Explore Ubud Tegallalang Rice Terrace
D6: Snorkeling in Nusa Penida → Relax on the West Coast Beaches
D7-8: Indulge in a Bali spa experience → Airport transfer → Return home

📅 Best travel time: May to October is the dry season, making it the ideal time to explore and enjoy the region.

📦 Entry Preparation
🔹 Ensure your passport has more than 6 months of validity.
🔹 Fill out the Indonesia customs declaration form by scanning the provided QR code.
🔹 Obtain a visa on arrival for $35 or apply for an e-visa in advance.
🔹 Bring a printout of your round-trip flight itinerary.
🔹 Have your hotel reservation confirmation ready.
🔹 Register and complete the Indonesia Health Pass.