Banyuwangi literally means the fragrant water, a name that comes from a local legend. Located at the easternmost tip of Java, Banyuwangi used to be popular as a gateway from Java to Bali. Nowadays, Banyuwangi is a popular with many wonderful tourist destination on its own right. From beautiful beaches on an uninhabited tropical island, to a volcano crater with blue flames, Banyuwangi has it all.
For one, Banyuwangi is very large and has diverse landscapes. You will definitely need to spend several days to enjoy all Banyuwangi has to offer. Savannah, wild buffalo, peacocks, trekking routes, oldest game reserve in Java. Here are some of the best tourist destinations that will lure you to Banyuwangi.
The Blue Flame of Ijen Crater
Ijen Plateau is a heaven for those who adore natural wonders. On this area, you can find an amazing sulfur mine. There is a sulfur vent churning out yellow liquid (molten sulfur) that is immediately collected and hauled by miners. Then there is also bright blue flames that is only visible in complete darkness.
There is also a warm acidic lake that fill the crater with aqua blue water. Entrance fee for local tourist are IDR5000 during weekdays and IDR7500 during weekends. For foreign tourists, entrance fee is IDR100,000 during weekdays and IDR150,000 on weekends.
Baluran, a Little Africa in Java
Baluran National Park, located at the border of Banyuwangi Regency and Situbondo Regency. Unlike many other places in Java, Baluran is dominated by a fertile savannah grass and a dormant volcano. Baluran is a habitat of very rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
The area is well connected with roads that are passable with cars. Entrance fee is starting from IDR15000 for Indonesians and IDR150000 for foreigners during weekdays. In weekends, the prices are IDR17500 for Indonesians and IDR225000 for foreigners.
Kite Boarding at Tabuhan Island
Located in the Bali straits, Tabuhan Island is a hidden gem that just recently was being uncovered. It’s a very small island that sprung several surprises when first discovered. First of all, this small island is the habitat of the endangered Maleo bird which previously thought to be endemic in Sulawesi only.
Apart from that, Tabuhan has sandy beaches and rich underwater life. However, the actual main attraction is that the waters around the island is the best for kiteboarding because the wind speed is constantly remain from 15 to 20 knots. Tabuhan Island is accessible from Kampe Beach at Bangsring.
Surfing at Plengkung Beach
Internationally known as G-land. Plenglung Beach is a surf heaven located in Grajagan Bay, in Alas Purwo National Park. The waves in Plengkung is popular worldwide for its legendary seven rolls of wave with height that can reach up to six meters.
It’s understandable then that the beach is acknowledged to be ‘The Seven Giant Waves Wonder. Plengkung Beach is accessible by land from Banyuwangi, and also by boats from both Banyuwangi and Bali.
How to get there and what to do in Banyuwangi
Banyuwangi is very much accessible by road, railways, air, or even seaport. To explore Banyuwangi, though, you need to rent a car or motorcycle. Some of the best Banyuwangi wonders are not easily accessed, so you need a guide or rent a car with the driver.
