Travel. Indonesia. Java.

The Trials of Trying to Conquer Mount Bromo Without a Tour

Why you should never trust tourist information in Indonesia

Mount Bromo, active volcano in Java, Indonesia (photo credit to the author)

The First Trial

“No, we don’t need a tour to do Mount Bromo! We don’t want to spend more time on a jeep than at the actual volcano, all crowded with loads of other tourists rushing around. No, let’s do it properly. I read a blog about how to get there on your own. It looks simple enough.” — Me

Famous.

Last.

Words.

Planned Trip Itinerary:

1. Flight from Bali to Surabaya.

2. Shuttle bus from the airport into town.

3. 2-hour bus to Probolinggo bus station.

4. 2 hour bus to Cemoro Lawang.

Sounds simple right?

Real Trip Itinerary:

1. Flight from Bali to Surabaya.

2. Shuttle bus from the airport into town.

3. Bus does not drop you off at Probolinggo bus station. The driver shouts at you to get off outside a “Tourist Information Office.” He won’t allow you to stay on the bus to the bus…