点评:My trek to Mount Ijen was both challenging and unforgettable. We departed the hotel around 11:30 PM and only managed to secure a parking spot near 2 AM due to the long weekend crowds. I was introduced to a local guide at the base who stayed with me throughout the trek.
The hike had three pit stops—the first stretch of 800m was relatively smooth, but the next two were about 1.2km each with steep, narrow, and winding paths. It was pitch black the entire way, with only torchlights and headlamps lighting the way. The trail was crowded with hikers and trolley “taxis,” which we had to constantly give way to, as their handlers couldn’t stop on the slopes.
Once we reached the top, I didn’t head to the peak due to heavy fog and the sheer number of people. Still, I was able to witness the stunning blue fire and the beautiful crater lake. I also met a few sulphur miners selling handmade figurines. It was eye-opening to learn that these miners hike the treacherous terrain daily and earn only about 1,000 rupiah per kilogram of sulphur—truly humbling.
The descent was steep but easier to navigate as daylight broke around 6 AM. Interestingly, the sulphur smell wasn’t as overpowering as I expected—it was the cigarette smoke from other hikers that lingered more.
My local guide, though limited in English, was very caring and attentive. He provided a gas mask, ensured my safety, and even took fantastic photos and videos for me.
This trek is not an easy one, especially with crowds, but it’s a deeply rewarding experience. I recommend being mentally and physically prepared, and going on a weekday if possible to avoid the crowd.
翻译:我的伊真火山之旅既充满挑战,又令人难忘。我们晚上11点半左右从酒店出发,由于周末人潮拥挤,直到凌晨2点左右才找到一个停车位。在山脚下,我认识了一位当地导游,他全程陪伴着我。
徒步途中停了三次——第一段800米的路程相对平坦,但接下来的两段路程分别约1.2公里,道路陡峭狭窄,蜿蜒曲折。一路漆黑一片,只有手电筒和头灯照亮道路。小路上挤满了徒步旅行者和电车“出租车”,我们不得不不断让路,因为司机无法在山坡上停车。
到达山顶后,由于大雾弥漫,人潮拥挤,我没有直接上山。尽管如此,我还是看到了那令人惊叹的蓝色火焰和美丽的火山口湖。我还遇到了一些硫磺矿工,他们在兜售手工制作的小雕像。得知这些矿工每天在险峻的地形中跋涉,每公斤硫磺的报酬仅为1000卢比左右,真是令人大开眼界——真是令人谦卑。
下山的路途虽然陡峭,但随着早上6点左右天亮,路途变得轻松多了。有趣的是,硫磺味并没有我想象的那么浓烈——真正萦绕心头的是其他徒步旅行者身上的香烟味。
我的当地导游虽然英语水平有限,但却非常细心周到。他提供了防毒面具,确保了我的安全,甚至还为我拍摄了精彩的照片和视频。
这次徒步并非易事,尤其是在人群拥挤的情况下,但它是一次非常有益的经历。我建议你做好心理和身体上的准备,如果可能的话,最好选择工作日出行,以避开人潮。