**Mount Ijen Wildfire Update: Hiking Trails Totally Closed and Fire Points Expanding**
The Ijen Crater Nature Tourism Park (TWA Kawah Ijen), located on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso in East Java, is currently facing a forest and land fire (karhutla). For international travelers planning a holiday or a hike to the famous blue fire destination in the near future, here is an essential summary of the current situation.
**Current Situation and Field Conditions**
The wildfire was first detected in early September in the forest and plantation areas of Pasewaran, eventually spreading upward into the mountain region and the eastern crater rim.
* Strong winds across the mountainous terrain have caused the fire to spread rapidly toward the main hiking route.
* Flames have been reported reaching areas around the Pondok Bunder Post and other tracking checkpoints.
* Joint teams consisting of the Conservation Agency (BBKSDA), local disaster management agencies (BPBD), volunteers, and local communities have been deployed to fight the fire manually using portable pumps amidst difficult, steep cliffs and ravines.
**Ijen Crater Operational Status **
Management authorities and relevant agencies have officially **closed all tourism activities and hiking trails at Mount Ijen starting Friday, September 4, 2026**, until further notice.
> “We strongly urge the public, especially international and local tourists, to be patient and avoid forcing entry into the Ijen area for safety reasons following the expanding wildfires,” stated a local disaster management representative.
Fortunately, when the fire approached the main path, the tourism area was temporarily clear of visitors due to routine cleaning schedules. No casualties or stranded tourists have been reported inside the core area.
**Important Advice for Travelers**
* **Postpone Your Trip:** Cancel or reschedule your travel plans to Paltuding and Mount Ijen until official reopening announcements are made by the authorities.
* **Monitor Official Channels:** Keep track of trusted updates through the East Java BKSDA or local regional disaster management boards to avoid unverified information.
Would you like some recommendations for alternative destinations around Banyuwangi or Bondowoso to include in your itinerary during this temporary closure? or text us on whatsapp here to get update about the latest information kawah ijen
