Marapi (also called Merapi Sumatera sometimes) is incredibly easy to bag. If you stay in Bukittinggi, you have a plethora of options (from personal car/ taxi, bus, or even ojek) to go to Koto Tinggi. This hamlet is on the road to Padang Panjang, right before Pandai Sikek. The road to the path goes up on your left from the main road; look for a Pangkalan Ojek to mark the turn-off. It is about 6km up to the end of the road and start of the trail. Once you’re on the trail, it is fairly well marked up to the crater. The trail is also very well worn, so easy to follow. Still, if it is your first time, and especially if you want to hike at night to catch sunrise, it is best to take a guide. They are plentiful in Bukittinggi, especially in the main strip from the Jam Gadang to the bridge across Benteng park. Guides will also know if the mountain is off-limits for being particularly active– remember that this is the most active volcano in the region, and several hikers have been injured in the last decade from unexpected emissions of burning hot gas and lava bombs. Although these are very rare, it is always best to check with a local contact before climbing.