After months of waiting, hikers finally have their answer. The trail to Mount Semeru is open again. But the journey comes with a clear limit this time. Starting Friday, April 24, 2026, climbing activities have officially resumed. However, hikers can only go as far as Ranu Kumbolo. No further access is allowed beyond that point.
“Based on the results of a multi-stakeholder coordination meeting regarding the reopening of the Mount Semeru hiking trail, and considering various factors, climbing activities on Mount Semeru are reopened starting April 24, 2026, with the final limit set at Ranu Kumbolo,” said Rudijanta Tjahja Nugraha in an official statement released on April 22, 2026.
Anyone planning to hike must secure a permit in advance. Tickets are only available online through the official website. The booking must be completed at least two days before the scheduled climb. Access is also limited. Only 200 hikers are allowed per day, with a maximum stay of two days and one night.
“Each hiker must follow the updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for climbing Mount Semeru in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park,” he added.
For those who had already booked earlier, there is some flexibility. Hikers who made reservations between November 19 and December 18, 2025, can reschedule their trip through the official link provided by the park authority.
The entry point remains the same. All hikes must begin from Ranu Pani. Registration is strictly online, and the quota is released on a monthly basis. Bookings open from 30 days before the hike and close two days prior.
There are also clear requirements to follow. The minimum age is set at 10 years old. Hikers above 70 must provide a doctor’s recommendation. Personal data cannot be changed once submitted. Those without an ID card must bring a consent letter from parents or guardians. Every hiker must carry valid identification, such as an ID card, family card, or passport.
Read also: 2 Indonesian Resorts Enter Asia’s Top 10 Luxury Hotels for 2026
On the trail, the rules are just as strict. The hike cannot exceed two days. Climbers must start ascending before 3:00 PM. Camping is only allowed at Ranu Kumbolo. Each hiker must wear an official wristband issued by the national park.
Waste management is taken seriously. Hikers must bring their own trash bags and carry all waste back down. Upon descent, they must report at Ranu Pani. There will be a waste check. A barcode scan is required before exit, and identification tags must be returned. Late descent will result in penalties.
Some activities are completely prohibited. Hikers are not allowed to damage flora, fauna, or cultural sites. Littering is strictly forbidden. Bringing illegal drugs, alcohol, explosives, or sharp weapons is not allowed. Any activity that could trigger forest fires is banned. Climbing beyond Ranu Kumbolo is also prohibited, along with creating new trails or flying drones.
The reopening follows a temporary closure that lasted from early January until the end of March 2026. The decision was made to support ecosystem recovery and address extreme weather risks.
Now the trail is open again. But the rules are tighter. And every step comes with greater responsibility.
