The dry season (May to September) offers clearer mountain views and easier volcano access. The wet months bring lush landscapes but higher altitude mist - both have their appeal, so it depends whether you're chasing crater photos or just want cooler air away from the lowlands.

Popular multi-day volcano trips and the Kawah Putih-Papandayan circuit fill up quickly during peak seasons, so booking 2-4 weeks ahead gives you better guide availability and group options. Shoulder seasons are more flexible, though check before you go for current demand.

Private transfers between airports and the city are widely available and worth booking ahead, especially if you're linking Bandung with Jakarta or Cirebon. Within Bandung itself, taxis and ride-apps work fine, but serious volcano exploring happens via guided tours that handle all transport.

Absolutely. The volcano trails aren't marked casually, sulfur fumes need respect, and local guides know which craters are safe on any given day. Plus they'll spot things - thermal vents, rare birds, local villages - you'd miss solo.

Most multi-day packages cover transport, guide, park entrance fees, and basic meals. Check before you go on what accommodations look like - volcano lodge standards vary widely. Private transfers are transport-only unless specified otherwise.

Yes, though it depends on kids' ages and fitness. Kawah Putih's crater rim walk is manageable, but Papandayan's sulfur zones and longer volcano treks suit older children better. Many tours offer shorter variations - ask about family-paced options when booking.