Explore Surabaya Every Weekend: 7th Stop from Shenzhen Travel Challenge 🛫
💙About Surabaya: Dive into an adrenaline-pumping special forces itinerary, where the challenge is as intense as it is exhilarating! This adventure is best shared with a group; consider hiring a car for safety and cost-efficiency, making it a journey to remember!
✈️China Southern Airlines is now offering a fantastic deal on a new route from Guangzhou to Surabaya, with round-trip tickets including taxes priced at just 1700. Depart on Wednesday evening and return on Sunday morning, giving you three action-packed days to explore two stunning volcanoes. Expect an average of 5 hours of driving per day, 4 hours of hiking, and less than 4 hours of sleep—this is not for the faint-hearted!
Day 0️⃣
Touchdown in Surabaya under the night sky, brace yourself for an hour-long wait at immigration, then hop into your pre-booked car and set off for Malang (3h). The journey begins!
Day 1️⃣ Rush to Sewu, capture the heart-shaped waterfall
🔹Sewu Waterfall: A must-visit! Beat the crowds by arriving early. Aim for 6 am to secure the perfect spot for that iconic heart-shaped photo (water shoes are a must for safety, Decathlon’s got you covered!). Any later, and you’ll find yourself in a long queue.
🔹Malang Internet-famous restaurant: While it might be all the rage online, the reality is a bit different. For a truly satisfying meal, try the local beef ball soup from a roadside vendor.
Day 2️⃣ Rush to Bromo, take life-changing photos
🔹At 2 am, jump into a jeep and head to the viewing platform! Bring a folding stool and a versatile 3-in-1 jacket to stay warm and protected from the sun. The temperature can drop significantly, so be prepared.
🔹By 5:30 am, position yourself at the crater for the perfect shot.
Face 45° east to capture the breathtaking sunrise and volcano together.
🔹Horse riding at the crater: Hone your bargaining skills and cut the price in half. We managed to get it for 100, but prices can fluctuate by 50-100. Always have change handy, or the horseman might use the “no change” excuse to avoid giving it back.
🔹Banyuwangi: Take the national road for a scenic drive. Along the way, you can capture the stunning Javanese terraces.
Day 3️⃣ Saturday rush to Ijen, almost choked by sulfur fumes
🔹Ijen Volcano: Another early start is required. Follow the guide closely, wear old shoes (volcanic ash can be brutal), and bring a headlamp and trekking poles. This was the most exhausting part of the trip, but the experience is unforgettable!
🔹Blue fire: Arrive before 5 am to catch the mesmerizing blue flames. They disappear at 5 am, so timing is crucial. The photos might not do it justice, but seeing it in person is awe-inspiring!
🔹Slacking off at the crater lake: Pack a thermos with instant noodles and enjoy a quick bite while waiting for the sunrise at the top.
⚠️ Tips:
1️⃣ The sulfur fog at Ijen is incredibly thick and suffocating! If you wear contact lenses, goggles are a must. Check out my friend Gege’s full gear @GeLiDe; he’s the one who captured all these amazing shots. He’s a reliable guy, and everyone is welcome to join him on future adventures!
2️⃣ Be cautious around the edge of the Bromo crater.
One slip, and you might lose a shoe—or worse!
3️⃣ Upon landing at Surabaya airport, don’t waste time. Rush to get your visa on arrival as soon as you land.
4️⃣ Depending on your landing time, the specific route may vary. Sometimes, it might be better to visit the volcano first and then the waterfall.
In summary, the special forces itinerary is incredibly demanding, leaving me in need of a full day’s rest to recover upon my return. But the experience was absolutely worth it! The new route offered by China Southern Airlines is remarkably convenient, making it an excellent choice for adventurous girls from Guangzhou.
