| Elevation | 3,676 m (12,060 ft); Prominence: 3,676 m |
|---|---|
| Province | Jawa Timur (East Java) |
| Ribu Category |  Sangat Tinggi |
| Also known as… | Mahameru |
| Links | Wikipedia English ; Wikipedia Indonesia |
Photos
Photos provided by Rob Woodall, Wolfgang Piecha and Java Lava
Bagging It!
Semeru is Java’s highest peak and has been active for decades – approximately every ten minutes a cloud of black volcanic ash and sand is released from near the summit. There have been numerous fatalities, but it is a popular and safe hike if you treat the mountain with respect and as Java’s highest peak, it is one of the finest hikes in Indonesia.
The trail starts at the village of Ranu Pani (2,100m) and you will need two full days for the hike to the summit and back. The 14km path to Kalimati basecamp (2,700m) goes via Ranu Kombolo lake which is a good camp spot in its own right. Another 2 km is Arcopodo basecamp (2,9000m), which is the best place to camp if you intend on reaching the summit at dawn and have the best chance of clear views and more importantly to avoid the worst of the gases. There used to be a pair of statues at Arcopodo but it is presumed they were covered during landslides. It is about 3 hours from Arcopodo camp to the summit and the track is very steep. The summit cone is very slippery with small volcanic rocks – definitely a case of two steps forward and one step back. The view from the top is incredible – something to take in before the long hike back to Ranu Pani, which can be done in one long day.
I just made the summit to this mountain a few weeks ago.By now semeru is well known all over the world as a world class destination for adventure seekers. It is truley an awe inspiring experience seeing Semeru from different vantage points.Ranu Pani,Kumbolo lake as well as Kali Mati and Arcopogo just below the treeline where the ash meets. For a veteran climber it should take no less than 2 days to get to the summit and one day to get back. If you are abegginner consider the 3 nights 4 days trek as it gives you a wonderful oppurtunity experience the highlands of east Java as well as the jungle.The mountain demands respect, and can stir up some unpredictable conditions.Bring lots of warm clothes. I heard it was the coldest place on Java. The drive there is one of the scariest parts so take your time. Enjoy.It is an incredible trek.
Excuse me?The drive wot do u meang is one of the scariest part?Thanks
The first mountain i climbed .. ever!!! It was a very amazing experience. There’s no doubt, when you do the hiking, you won’t get tired coz the views are Great! I certainly would love to get back climbing this amazing mountain!
I got many memories there, including camping in a -5 Degrees Celcius at Ranu Kumbolo! Superb! hehehe
Semeru, you will always be in my heart!
Semeru.. lifetime memories..!!
I’ve climbed it 16 years ago when I was a teenager. 3D/2N climbing. I always missing every moment there..
Semeru, hope someday I can get back to your lovely places.