Kawah Ijen is an active volcano located in East Java, Indonesia. It stands at 1,799 meters (9,183 feet) high and is part of the Ijen volcano complex. The volcano is famous for its striking turquoise-colored acidic lake and mesmerizing blue flames, that are visible at night. It makes the volcano one of the most unique and otherworldly natural attractions in the world.
The crater lake at the summit is one of the most acidic lakes in the world. It is so acidic that it can dissolve metal. The lake’s turquoise color is due to high acidity and the presence of various dissolved minerals. It has a depth of 200 meters (656 feet) and a surface area of about 0.54 square kilometers (0.21 square miles).
Kawah Ijen is a unique volcano famous for its natural phenomenon called “blue flames” or “blue fire”. The eerie blue flames are caused by the combustion of sulfuric gas that emerges from cracks in the volcano at high temperatures. This is one of the two places on Earth where you can witness this fascinating sight. The blue flames are most visible at night, and create a surreal and captivating experience for visitors.
Sulfur Mining
There is a mining operation located on the slopes of the volcano. The miners work hard to extract sulfur from the volcano. They have to carry baskets of sulfur up to 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from the crater floor to a designated collection point. The job is very challenging, and the miners work under harsh conditions that can be dangerous at times.
Visiting Kawah Ijen
The hike from the parking lot to the top of the mountain is 4.6 kilometers (2.9 miles) long and takes around 2-4 hours to complete. The terrain is rugged, so it’s important to be prepared for a challenging hike. Most visitors start hiking at night to see the blue flames against the dark sky. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it can get very cold and windy at the crater, and the sulfur fumes can be irritating to the eyes and respiratory system. To protect yourself, it’s advisable to wear a mask.
Kawah Ijen is a popular attraction among tourists worldwide. However, there are concerted efforts to maintain a balance between tourism and conservation. The vulnerable ecosystems surrounding the volcano are protected, and visitors are asked to practice sustainable tourism to reduce their impact on the environment.
Overall, Kawah Ijen offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, geological wonders, and cultural significance. It’s a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences in Indonesia.
Bibliography
1 – O vulcão que expele lava azul – https://www.nationalgeographic.pt/meio-ambiente/o-vulcao-que-expele-lava-azul_1366
2 – Ijen – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ijen#
3 – Kawah Ijen, o vulcão mágico que expele lava azul-violeta – https://www.tempo.com/noticias/actualidade/kawah-ijen-o-vulcao-magico-que-cospe-lava-azul-violeta-ciencia-turismo.html
4 – Kawah Ijen Volcano: Mount Ijen Crater & Blue Fire – https://www.journeyera.com/kawah-ijen-volcano-hike-blue-fire/