Day 1: The Roar of Tumpak Sewu

As the sun began to rise over Malang, I found myself eagerly awaiting the start of my two-day adventure to Tumpak Sewu and Bromo. The promise of a waterfall and a volcano in one trip was too enticing to pass up. At 6 am sharp, Zaini, my driver and guide for the journey, picked me up from my hostel. His warm smile and easygoing nature immediately put me at ease. We set off on a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Tumpak Sewu, a journey filled with lush landscapes and the occasional chat about local life in East Java.

Upon arrival, a short ten-minute walk from the parking area brought us to the edge of the forest. The sound of the waterfall grew louder with each step, a thunderous roar that promised something spectacular. And spectacular it was. Tumpak Sewu, with its cascading waters, was a sight to behold. Zaini, with his local knowledge, guided me to the best vantage points, allowing me to capture the beauty of the falls from every angle. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating, a reminder of nature’s raw power.

After soaking in the views and snapping countless photos, we made our way back to the car. The next leg of our journey was a four-hour drive to Cemoro Lawang village, where we would spend the night. The drive was long, but Zaini’s stories and insights into the local culture made the time fly by. By the time we arrived at our homestay, I was both exhausted and excited for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Sunrise Over Bromo

The alarm rang at 3 am, a harsh reminder of the early start required to catch the sunrise over Mount Bromo. Despite the early hour, the excitement of witnessing such a natural wonder was enough to get me out of bed. Zaini was already waiting with a jeep, ready to take us to the viewpoint.

The drive through the darkness was an adventure in itself, the jeep bouncing over rough terrain as we made our way to the top. As we reached the viewpoint, the first light of dawn began to break, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. The sight of Mount Bromo silhouetted against the rising sun was nothing short of magical. It was a moment of pure awe, one that I knew would stay with me long after the trip was over.

After the sunrise, we descended to the Sea of Sand, a vast expanse of volcanic ash that surrounds Bromo. The landscape was otherworldly, a stark contrast to the lush greenery of Tumpak Sewu. Zaini’s knowledge of the area was invaluable, guiding me through the best paths and sharing stories of the volcano’s history. We hiked up to the crater, the smell of sulfur in the air, and peered into the depths of the active volcano. It was a thrilling experience, one that left me with a newfound respect for the power of nature.

Reflections on the Journey

As we made our way back to Malang, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I had just experienced. The combination of Tumpak Sewu’s majestic waterfall and Bromo’s awe-inspiring volcano made for an unforgettable adventure. Zaini’s flexibility and knowledge added a personal touch to the trip, allowing me to explore at my own pace while benefiting from his local expertise.

For anyone considering a trip to East Java, I can’t recommend this adventure enough. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned travelers alike, offering a taste of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the experience is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet thrilling adventure, this is it. Check out this adventure and see for yourself why it’s a must-do in East Java.