Ranu Kumbolo
Lake High-altitude crater lake on Mount Semeru trek
Ranu Kumbolo on East Java’s Semeru trail is a highland lake used as an overnight camp for trekkers tackling Mount Semeru; the shoreline is a common spot for tents before higher alpine routes.
Ranu Kumbolo is a mountain lake on the slopes of Mount Semeru in East Java, Indonesia, within Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. It is a freshwater lake popular with hikers on the multi-day route to Semeru’s summit and is noted for its open shoreline suitable for camping.
The lake serves as a regular overnight stop on the Semeru trek and offers relatively flat grassy areas used by tents and shelters. The area is scenic and functions as a logistical and rest point for climbers aiming for the summit.
The lake is a natural mountain lake at about 2,400 meters elevation and has long been used by local communities and visiting hikers rather than being developed for large-scale tourism.
Ranu Kumbolo lies on the slopes of Mount Semeru in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, accessible by multi-day trekking routes from nearby trailheads.
- Elevation: Sits at roughly 2,400 meters above sea level and is a common overnight campsite for hikers ascending Mount Semeru.
What to See #
- Campsites: Shoreline campsites and flat grassy areas around the lake used by trekkers as the main overnight camping zone on the route to Mount Semeru.
How to Get to Ranu Kumbolo #
Most trekkers start from Ranu Pani village (approx. 7-10 km to Ranu Kumbolo). Ranu Pani is reached by minibus or private car from Lumajang or Malang; permits and park registration are handled at the national park ranger station in Ranu Pani.
Tips for Visiting Ranu Kumbolo #
- Start the trek at Ranu Pani and allow 3-5 hours to reach Ranu Kumbolo; the trail is relatively flat but gets dusty.
- Bring a warm sleeping bag - temperatures at the lake can drop near freezing at night despite daytime heat.
- Respect the lake and local regulations: wood fires and cutting vegetation are often banned; packing out trash is strictly enforced.
Best Time to Visit Ranu Kumbolo #
May-September is the most reliable window for reaching Ranu Kumbolo and continuing toward Mount Semeru, with clearer trails and stable weather.
Weather & Climate near Ranu Kumbolo #
Ranu Kumbolo's climate is classified as Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) - Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 6°C to 16°C. Abundant rainfall (1891 mm/year), wettest in March with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (294 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (301 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (303 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (169 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (112 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. The driest month with just 20 mm.
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August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Heavy rain (201 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (295 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
