Lumajang, located in East Java, is a beautiful area with some natural beauties. It is not a popular destination among foreign tourists even though it is right next to the well-known volcano, Bromo, which brings in thousands of tourists each year. Lumajang may be a bit out of the way for people just traveling to Bali or Lombok, but if you are in the area, stop by! There are some places that will make the trip worth it.
1.Tumpak Sewu
Tumpak Sewu is a magnificent waterfall located on the border of Lumajang and Malang. It offers a short yet challenging hike down so you can get up close and personal with the 50+ waterfalls. At the parking lot you will pay Rp. 10.000 (less than 1 USD) for a ticket- this ticket will only get you to the lookout point. From the lookout you can follow the trail down until you reach the river. At the river you have to pay for another ticket (also Rp. 10.000) that will get you entrance to the actual waterfalls. There are no park rangers around, so you are free to explore and climb as you wish, just be careful of slippery rocks.
The best time to go is during the rainy season (October-March) because the waterfalls are much bigger. Local tourists usually crowd the park on Sundays, so it is best to go during the week. Even on a Saturday you could have the whole area to yourself.
You will hike in mud and water and cross a river just before you reach the waterfalls. So if you are going further than just the lookout point be prepared to get your shoes and calves wet.
2. Gucialit
Gucialit is a local tea plantation about 30 minutes outside of the city. Although there are not many facilities available, there are over 15km of trails that lead all through the tea plantation. So if you like tea and walking this is the place for you. There is no entrance fee, so you are free to come and go as you please- you could even pitch a tent or hammock and spend the night. So pack a picnic and head over to Gucialit!
3. B29
While Bromo might get all the attention its neighbor, B29, is a bit taller and offers spectacular views of the volcano. B29 is located in Argosari, Lumajang and, being about an hour and a half away from the city, is a lot less traveled. The way to B29 is almost all dirt roads and there is limited transportation going in and out. However, if you can make it there it will be worth it. From Argosari it is about a 3 or 4km walk or motorcycle ride up to the top on a paved road. At the top you can buy food and drinks from one of the many food stalls. The cool air is a nice reprieve from the usually-always warm weather.
4. Semeru
Semeru might not be the most famous mountain on Java but it sure is the tallest! At over 12,000 feet (3,676m) it offers beautiful scenery from near and far. Semeru is located to the west of the city and takes about an hour to get to. Ranu Pani (Pani Lake) is at the entrance of the park and where many local tourists travel to (at least those who are not looking for a hike). At the lake there are homestays, restaurants, and a welcome center where park-entrance tickets can be purchased.
Depending on what you’re up for, you can hike just to the picturesque Ranu Kumbolo (Kombolo Lake), located about 2-3 hours (by foot) from the entrance, or all the way to the top. If hiking all 12,000 feet, plan for a 3-4 day trip. The trek is tough but well worth it! For more complete information about prices and trek click here.
Update: a new government order includes building new roads. Because of this a the road up to Agosari has been paved. The road leads up to a new parking/rest area and another road is in the works to lead all the way to the top of B29.
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