The dry season from May through September gives you the clearest visibility at sunrise and the most reliable conditions for crater hikes. You can visit year-round, but the rainy months (November to March) mean foggier views and muddier trails.

Most of the popular 3- to 4-day packages run regularly, so you can often book 1-2 weeks ahead. If you're traveling during peak season (July-August or December), booking 3-4 weeks out gives you better accommodation choices.

Guided tours here are absolutely worth it - the terrain is remote, guides know the safest trails, and they handle logistics like pre-dawn pickups and transport between sites. You'll spend less time figuring things out and more time actually experiencing the volcanoes.

Most 4-day itineraries cover accommodation, meals, entrance fees to all sites (Bromo, Ijen, waterfalls), and vehicle transport. Check your specific booking for whether it includes a professional photographer or higher-end lodging, as some packages offer 4-star hotels while others stick to basic comfort.

Your tour company will pick you up from Surabaya or Malang airport and handle all transport. Bromo is roughly 3-4 hours from Surabaya, and the full circuit takes you toward Banyuwangi in the east, sometimes ending in Bali.

They're moderately to very strenuous. Bromo sunrise requires a steep 1-2 hour hike in darkness, Ijen involves a sulfur crater walk at altitude, and waterfall tours mean scrambling over rocks. Come prepared with good hiking boots and realistic fitness expectations.

Younger children can do shorter portions (the Bromo sunrise hike is doable for fit kids over 10), but the full 4-day circuit with Ijen's altitude and long drives is tough for small children. Talk directly with your tour operator about what's realistic for your family.