Mount Bromo Travel Nightmare: Why My Recent Trip Was So Frustrating 😤
Wasn’t I the one asking?!! Before heading to Bromo, all I saw were breathtaking pictures, and no one mentioned how challenging it could be?!! I need to vent! 💥
1⃣ We set off from the hotel at 1 AM. The road to Bromo was incredibly bumpy, so having a skilled driver is crucial! If you’re prone to motion sickness, make sure to take some medication beforehand. Fortunately, our driver thoughtfully provided a 📼 and a neck pillow 😴, making the journey a bit more comfortable.
2⃣ Waiting for the jeep, we were utterly exhausted, only to embark on a long and winding ascent up the mountain. Just as we neared the top, we hit a traffic jam, forcing us to catch a few winks 😴 before continuing.
3⃣ At the rest stop, using the toilet costs 5,000 Indonesian Rupiah. To avoid frequent trips, it’s best to limit your water intake, especially since you’ll still need to wait for the sunrise at the summit. The rest stop offers food, souvenirs, fridge magnets, and even clothing rentals 🏽, so you can gear up if needed.
4⃣ The final stretch to the top takes about ten minutes, but this part of the road can really do a number on your pants and shoes. The volcanic ash is thick and slippery, so it’s wise to have a hiking stick 😣. Our guide kindly lent us one for free, which was a lifesaver.
5⃣ The sunrise and sunset are absolutely stunning, both located near Bromo. You can enjoy the breathtaking views first, then head over to see the volcano itself 🌅. It’s a sight you won’t forget!
6⃣ The descent down the mountain is just as congested, with everyone trying to leave at the same time! Once you reach the bottom, you can snap some photos with the jeep, then venture out to climb Bromo 🚙. It’s a perfect way to cap off the adventure.
7⃣ Deciding whether to walk or ride a horse to Bromo, the path isn’t particularly difficult to navigate on foot. If you’re feeling tired, consider the horseback option. Our driver worked hard to negotiate a great deal, 275,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person, which is about 130 RMB round trip 🐎. It’s a pretty good bargain.
❗ A guide is essential: The roads in Surabaya are notoriously challenging, very narrow, and filled with aggressive drivers and zipping motorcycles. Renting a car yourself is not advisable. We opted for a group tour that included flights, a guide, hotel, tickets, and boat tickets. All we had to pay for was food. Everything else was taken care of, and we had the flexibility to stop whenever we wanted. The guide was fantastic, making me feel incredibly safe during our four days in Surabaya 👍.
❗ Dress Code: We highly recommend donning brightly colored windbreakers—they not only look fantastic in photos but also keep you warm as you wait for the sunrise. Layer up with a down or fleece lining to stay cozy in the chilly morning air 🥶.
❗ Shoe Selection: Non-slip shoes are a must, and it’s wise to bring a mask due to the abundance of volcanic ash. This will ensure both your safety and comfort 🤧.
❗ Money Exchange Reminder: It’s crucial to exchange your currency for Indonesian Rupiah before your trip. Bringing US dollars or RMB can be extremely inconvenient, and the exchange rates might be unfavorable. Additionally, while in Surabaya, you’ll find that many places do not accept Visa cards, and there are frequent issues with card fraud. Save yourself the hassle and exchange your money in advance 💰.
‼ Despite the local cuisine in Surabaya not being a highlight, this 3-day, 2-night trip for just 899 was absolutely worth it. The arrangements were top-notch, and the local drivers and guides provided exceptional, heartfelt service. Indonesia is a destination that truly delivers on fun, enjoyment, and unforgettable experiences—definitely a must-visit! 💯
