Malang – volcanoes and colourful villages

Just 2 days in the town of Malang, the main reason for this visit was the famous Bromo volcano trek for sunrise. The trek to the viewpoint was steep but so rewarding. The sunrise with the clouds beneath us was awesome. Followed by a trek across the sea of black volcanic sand to the rim of Bromo, the constantly smoking volcano, absolutely amazing. Even the giant cone of mount Semeru, the highest mountain in Java was spewing out ash into the atmosphere. We have had the most incredible experience today.

One other place of interest in Malang is Rainbow Village. Previously known as one of the worst slums in Indonesia and was potentially going to be cleared and knocked down until a group of students and the airforce with the financial support of a paint company painted it in multicolours. This went viral on social media bringing visitors and an income by means of a small donation on entry and sale of drinks and trinkets. This has contributed to slightly better way of life and improved sanitation for these families.

From Malang we started our journey towards Bali. Our expected 7 hour car journey to the port town of Banyuwangi took a turn for the worst. Just 6 miles from our hotel in Banyuwangi the traffic jam began, it took us a further 3 hours to complete that 6 miles! There was total gridlock caused by the cancellation of ferries due to strong winds, we hope that tomorrow brings better weather. It does! By 10 am we are on the ferry heading to Balu and looking back at the mighty mount Ijen volcano, Bali here we come.