Kawah Ijen is a famous volcanic crater located in East Java, Indonesia. It is best known for its rare natural phenomenon called the blue fire, which can only be seen in a few places in the world. This glowing blue flame is caused by ignited sulfuric gases that emerge from cracks in the volcano.
The crater itself holds a large, acidic turquoise lake, which is one of the most acidic lakes on Earth. Despite its beauty, the lake is highly dangerous due to its high sulfur content. Visitors often hike to the crater at night or early morning to witness the blue fire before sunrise, followed by stunning views of the lake as daylight breaks.
Kawah Ijen is also known for its traditional sulfur miners. These workers climb into the crater daily to collect solid sulfur, carrying heavy loads on their shoulders up steep paths. It’s a difficult and risky job, but it is part of the unique story of this volcano.
A visit to Kawah Ijen is both breathtaking and humbling. It combines natural beauty, geological wonder, and human resilience—making it one of Indonesia’s most unforgettable destinations.