Mount Bromo is one of Indonesia's mountains famous for its sunrise. People from various areas, domestic or international, are flocking to Mount Bromo for the chilly dawn with mesmerizing morning sunlight.
Then, why is Mount Bromo sunrise popular? Not only serves a captivating daybreak, but Mount Bromo also offers fascinating tourist spots, like Bromo Crater, Pasir Berbisik (Whispering Sand), Widodaren Hill, and many more.
In addition, Mount Bromo is located between 4 regencies, namely Malang Regency, Pasuruan Regency, Probolinggo Regency, and Lumayang Regency, making it accessible from big cities like Surabaya and Malang.
Yet, if you plan to visit this mountain for its sunrise, you must know the best sunrise viewpoint to watch the sunrise at its finest.
This article will guide you in exploring the perfect Bromo sunrise viewpoints to create your most unforgettable moment.
Outstanding Sunrise Viewpoints in Bromo
Many people stay awake to capture the best sunrise in Mount Bromo. The sunrise is visible through every single side of Mount Bromo.
However, there are 7 sunrise viewpoints in Bromo you must take note of to get the best experience. Read the details below.
1. Bukit Pananjakan 1 (Pananjakan 1 Hill)
The first sunrise viewpoint is Bukit Pananjakan 1 or Pananjakan 1 Hill. This hill is one of the most famous sunrise viewpoint spots in Mount Bromo.
Having a height of 2,770 meters above sea level, you can see not only the sunrise but also Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, Mount Kursi, and Mount Semeru.
Additionally, most of the morning scenes taken are from this hill. No wonder the hill located in Wonokitri, Pasuruan, is very popular among tourists visiting Mount Bromo.
Since it has a freezing temperature of 3-5℃, do not forget to wear warm attire and bring a simple blanket. To warm your body, you can sip a cup of coffee or tea while enjoying the sunrise.
2. Bukit Pananjakan 2 (Pananjakan 2 Hill)
The next sunrise viewpoint is Bukit Pananjakan 2 or Pananjakan 2 Hill. Located in Ngadisari, Probolinggo, Pananjakan 2 gives you a different point of view.
Pananjakan 2 or Seruni Point is opened due to a massive demand for captivating sunrise viewing in Pananjakan 1. Despite being lower than Pananjakan 1, which is 2,400 meters above sea level, this sunrise viewpoint still offers as outstanding scenery as Pananjakan 1.
Another attractive fact about Seruni Point is that it is also called the “Great Wall of Bromo” because it was built on the Four Pillars of Tugu Brawijaya as a symbol of the glory of the Majapahit kingdom in the past.
Similar to Pananjakan 1, the weather in Pananjakan 2 can be freezing, so do not forget to get warmed by wearing a jacket and eating warm food.
3. Bukit Kingkong (Kingkong Hill)
Bukit Kingkong or Kingkong Hill is the next sunrise viewpoint you should consider. This hill is the alternative spot for a sunrise viewpoint and is located in Ngadisari, Probolinggo.
Having a height of 2,600 above sea level, it still serves as good sunrise as Pananjakan spots, despite being lower than Pananjakan 1.
In Kingkong Hills, you can view the sunrise with Mount Batok, Mount Mahameru, and Mount Semeru as the backgrounds.
Moreover, you can set up a tent here and camp with your friends while enjoying the sunrise. The track is also near the main road.
4. Bukit Mentigen (Mentingen Hill)
The next sunrise viewpoint you can visit is Bukit Mentigen or Mentigen Hill. This spot is outside the Pananjakan area and the nearest spot to the Ngadisari rest area, which you can get into on foot.
This hill is a popular spot for a pre-wedding photo session and camping. On this hill, you can also capture the Milky Way galaxy.
5. Bukit Cinta (Love Hill)
Bukit Cinta or Love Hill has become one of the best sunrise viewpoints in Mount Bromo. Having a height of 2,680 meters above sea level, this hill is located on the slope of Mount Pananjakan and is abreast of other sunrise spots in Pananjakan.
Therefore, if you want to try a different spot besides Pananjakan 1 and 2, Love Hill can be one of your choices.
What makes this hill unique is the legend of Roro Anteng and Joko Seger, a couple who met on this hill for the first time. They are believed to be the ancestors of the Tenggerese people living in Mount Bromo.
6. Puncak Songolikur B-29 and P-30
If you are an adrenaline-hunter, this sunrise viewpoint must be on your list. This area is the highest peak in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with a height of 2,900 and 3000 meters above sea level.
On this spot, you can view the “Golden Sunrise Bromo” as well as Mount Semeru, Mount Bromo, Mount Welirang, Mount Arjuno, Mount Raung, and Mount Argopura.
7. Pos Dingklik (Dingklik Post)
Pos Dingkling is the first sunrise viewpoint you will encounter if you go to Mount Bromo from Pasuruan.
Despite being smaller than the Pananjakan spots, you can still enjoy the sunrise here. After that, you can continue your trip since this spot is close to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park’s gate.
Tips to Catch Perfect Sunrise at Mount Bromo
Watching the first light of day illuminate the dramatic landscapes of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is a bucket-list moment. To make the most of your sunrise adventure, here are some essential tips:
1. Choose the Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit Mount Bromo for a clear sunrise are during the dry season, from April to October. The skies are generally clearer, providing unobstructed views of the volcano and its surrounding landscapes. Avoid visiting during the rainy season (November to March), as heavy fog and rain may obscure the sunrise.
2. Pick the Right Viewpoint
There are several viewpoints to catch the sunrise, each offering unique perspectives:
- Penanjakan 1 – The most popular viewpoint, providing a panoramic view of Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and Mount Semeru.
- King Kong Hill – A quieter alternative with an equally stunning view.
- Bukit Cinta (Love Hill) – Less crowded and offers a romantic vantage point.
- Seruni Point – A great choice if you want a relatively easy hike to a beautiful sunrise spot.
3. Start Early to Secure a Good Spot
To catch the sunrise, you’ll need to start your journey around 3:00 AM. Many visitors hire a 4WD jeep from Cemoro Lawang or Malang to reach the viewpoints before dawn. Arriving early ensures you get the best spot, especially at popular viewpoints like Penanjakan 1.
4. Dress Warmly and Comfortably
Mount Bromo’s high-altitude location means temperatures can drop to as low as 5°C (41°F) before sunrise. Wear warm clothing, including a jacket, gloves, and a beanie. Comfortable hiking shoes are also essential, as some viewpoints require a short trek.
5. Bring a Good Camera and Tripod
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the stunning sunrise. A tripod helps stabilize your shots, especially in low light conditions. If using a smartphone, enable night mode or HDR for better results.
6. Check the Weather Forecast
Before heading up, check the weather forecast to avoid cloudy or rainy conditions. Apps like AccuWeather or local weather reports can help determine if visibility will be good for sunrise.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and unforgettable sunrise experience at Mount Bromo. Enjoy the magical views and capture memories that will last a lifetime!