Indonesia, a country standing magnificently on the Pacific Ring of Fire, has outstanding geological richness. Every curve of its land holds millions of stories about Earth’s evolution. In efforts to preserve and use this natural heritage, the Geopark serves as a bridge between conservation, education, and sustainable tourism development.
A geopark is an area with a high-value geological element, commonly complemented with well-developed biodiversity and cultural diversity. The concept of geopark tourism in Indonesia benefits the tourism sector, as it stimulates educational, natural, and cultural tourism in a tourism destination.
This article will specifically discuss the Ijen Geopark, which is administratively located in Banyuwangi and Bondowoso Regencies, East Java. With geological and cultural uniqueness as attractions, the Ijen Geopark also offers the world-famous blue fire natural phenomenon. Here are other fun facts about the Ijen Geopark you should know!
UNESCO Global Geopark Status
Since May 24, 2025, Ijen Geopark has been recognized by UNESCO as a member of the global geopark network. Ijen Crater is home to a turquoise-green crater lake with a highly acidic level, one of the largest in the world.
Traditional Sulphur Miners
Visitors can witness the local miners’ lives, who traditionally lift and carry heavy loads of sulphur from the crater floor, although some now use trolleys. The sulphur fume and pungent odour indicate that Mount Ijen is still an active volcano, storing geothermal energy.
Biological and Cultural Richness
In addition to its unique geology, Ijen Geopark also boasts a wealth of biological and cultural sites, all integrated into the theme of the ancient volcano. It is home to 14 species of flora, 27 species of fauna, and 6 species of mammals..jpg)
Geological Information Centre
The Ijen Geopark Geological Information Centre (PIGGI) serves as an educational tourism site, providing comprehensive information about the region’s geological, archaeological, cultural, and biological richness. Ijen Geopark is committed to becoming an environmentally friendly tourist destination.
Blue Fire Phenomenon
One spectacular attraction of the Ijen Geopark is the “Blue Fire”, which can only be found in Ijen and Iceland. This phenomenon is caused by sulphur gas combusting when it encounters oxygen, creating a dazzling blue flame..jpg)
Conservation and Economic Potential
The designation of Ijen as a geopark stimulates conservation and local economic development through various sports tourism events, such as the Tour de Banyuwangi Ijen bike race and the Ijen Green Trail Run event, which support sustainable tourism. Ijen Geopark has become a leading tourism destination in Indonesia, attracting visitors from throughout the world. Its management has undertaken measures to mitigate the ecological impacts of tourism, such as issuing strict regulations related to climbing and crater conservation.
If you look for a heartwarming and insightful adventure, Ijen is the answer. With its captivating nature, Ijen encourages us to care for and appreciate the earth’s heritage. Pack your backpack, and let’s head out to Ijen Geopark!
All photos source: wonderfulimages.kemenpar.go.id
