Indonesia must feel like a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. In addition to its many beaches and bodies of water, Indonesia is also home to numerous beautiful, picturesque mountains. With hundreds of mountains, both active and inactive, this country offers a variety of hiking trails for everyone, including those of you who want to try hiking for the first time. Here are some mountains where you can have your first hiking experience. They have safe, easy routes and beautiful views.
Mount Bromo – East Java
(Source : dok.pribadi)
Altitude: 2.329 mdpl
Hiking time: ± 1–2 hour
Tips: Use a personal vehicle or rent a jeep to reach the climbing area easier.
For those of you who are still unsure about your hiking abilities, Mount Bromo is the perfect place to start because it's easy to get to and there are plenty of trails to explore. In addition to being famous for its iconic sunrise views, it is easily accessible by vehicle until the climbing area. Additionally, there is a vast sea of sand with views of Mount Semeru. You can walk or ride a horse to see the active crater of the mountain.
If you're interested in your first adventure in Bromo, it's highly recommended that you arrive before dawn to enjoy the iconic "golden sunrise."
Mount Prau – Center Java
Source : The view of mount prau before sunrise is very beautiful | Premium Photo
Altitude: 2.565 mdpl
Hiking time: 2–4 hour
Tips: You can use the Patak Banteng route to reach the top faster, but you need to prepare more stamina for the first part of the route.
Next, let's head to Central Java. Mount Prau in the Dieng Plateau is the perfect place to test your physical abilities. The route is not too long, and there are many rest stops along the way, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to catch your breath and stretch your legs. Your efforts will not be wasted because you will be immediately rewarded with a breathtaking view when you reach the summit, especially if you arrive at sunrise.
Additionally, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Sindoro, Sumbing, and Merbabu mountains, followed by a sea of clouds that enhances their beauty.
Mount Gede-Pangrango – West Java
Altitude: 2.958 mdpl (Gede) / 3.019 mdpl (Pangrango)
Hiking time: 5–7 jam via Cibodas
Tips: If you want to hike here, you need to sign up via the official website because the number of climbers are limited.
Mount Gede-Pangrango, which is located in the Gede Pangrango National Park, is an even greater challenge for those who are up for it. Although it is quite high, the mountain-climbing trail is well-organized and safe. It is equipped with complete facilities, such as rest stops and water sources. This mountain is the perfect place for beginners looking to improve their climbing skills and experience.
As you climb, you can feast your eyes on active craters, lush tropical forests, waterfalls, and fields of edelweiss flowers along the way.
Mount Batur – Bali
Source : Mount batur is a mountain in the clouds. | Premium Photo
Altitude: 1.717 mdpl
Hiking time: ± 2 jam
Tips: For a safer and more informative climb, you can use the services of a local guide.
When talking about Bali, beaches are the first tourist attraction that comes to mind, and for good reason: they're stunning, and there are many to explore. However, it's not just about the beaches; Bali also boasts mountains that are perfect for hiking. The Mount Batur trail is not too steep, and it is short, making it suitable for beginner hikers. The view from the summit is just as beautiful as that from other mountains.
The sunrise view, along with the blue Lake Batur and Mount Abah, creates a stunning combination.
Mount Kelimutu – NTT
Altitude: 1.639 mdpl
Hiking time: ± 30 minutes – 1 hour from parking area
Leaving Java again, Mount Kelimutu, located in East Nusa Tenggara, is a must-visit destination at least once in your lifetime. Its quick journey and neatly arranged paths, in the form of concrete stairs and walkways, make it easily accessible to anyone.
Although Mount Kelimutu is the lowest mountain on this list, you will still be amazed by the view from its summit. If you arrive before sunrise, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the sunrise and the changing colors of the three lakes.
Recommended Equipment for Hiking
To make your hiking experience safer and more enjoyable, it is essential to prepare thoroughly. First, check the route, the weather, and, of course, the equipment that will support you during your trip. These include bags, walking sticks, raincoats, and much more. Below are the hiking gear recommendations you should have before you begin.
1. Camping Carrier Backpack
Depending on their length, hiking trips can be very long and tiring. This camping carrier backpack is the perfect solution for all your hiking needs. With a capacity of up to 28 liters, a rain cover, and multiple compartments, it offers ample storage for your essentials.
It has a small pocket at the bottom, side pockets, compression straps, a button carry attachment, and, best of all, a hydropack attachment slot, so you can drink without putting down your bag to get your bottle.
2. Soleil Carbon Trekking Pole
Training physically is key before climbing a mountain, as it prepares us for the long track ahead. However, it cannot be denied that novice climbers often have difficulty adjusting to the conditions and situations on the mountain. This causes them to tire easily, despite having trained. Therefore, it is a good idea to bring a trekking pole as a precaution. This allows you to tackle challenging terrain more safely and effectively, whether it's navigating steep slopes or dealing with slippery surfaces.
3. Powerlite Rechargeable Headlamp
Since we are surrounded by nature, we are limited to relying on moonlight at night. Flashlights are essential for climbing, especially if you're chasing the sunrise and starting early in the morning. Bring several types of flashlights or one headlamp and one flashlight so that you have a backup in case something happens to your lighting equipment during the trip.
4. Soleil Dieng 4-Person Aluminum Dome Tent
Although bringing a tent is optional, spending the night on the mountain is a unique experience that allows you to fully enjoy the natural surroundings. Additionally, setting up a tent during a long climb can be vital because it allows you to rest and recharge before continuing your journey.
5. Soleil 250 Sleeping Bag Hoodie
After setting up your tent, you can prepare for added comfort by bringing a sleeping bag. Resting also helps you stay warm and maintain your body temperature, preventing hypothermia, which can be very dangerous. Therefore, if you are not used to cold weather and temperatures, it is highly recommended that you bring a sleeping bag just in case.
6. Soleil Set of 5 Aluminum Camping Cookware
Summiting a mountain and enjoying a warm drink or soup at the top is one of the most enjoyable aspects of mountain climbing. The cool mountain air and breathtaking views made for an enjoyable, relaxing experience. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you bring a set of cooking utensils and food ingredients so you can enjoy your hike even more.
7. Picas Maggie Stainless Steel Vacuum Flask Bottle 1 Ltr
The long, uphill journey makes drinking water an essential supply to bring along on the trip. There will usually be a water source available in some places, so it is highly recommended that you bring a water bottle on your hike. Additionally, you should bring water or warm drinks to keep yourself warm during the climb to the summit, when temperatures drop.
Now that you have the above recommendations and preparations, are you more interested in climbing mountains? Get all the mountain climbing gear mentioned above at your nearest AZKO store, or shop from ruparupa.
Aldrich - 13 November 2025
