Banyuwangi literally means Aromatic Water, which is associated with the local legend. Being the east-most city on Java, this is where the dawn first rises in the morning throwing its welcoming rays over Java, this lush green but also most densely populated island. Banyuwangi Regency extends over an area of 5,800 square km, comprising southern beaches brushed by the Indian Ocean, to impressive Mt Raung that stands at 3,282 meters and Mt Merapi at 2,800 meters above sea level.

The town of Banyuwangi is the gateway to your explorations to watch wild animals roam freely in the reserve of Alas Purwo, the oldest game reserve on Java, go trekking through the savannah of Baluran, or find secluded and untouched beaches at Pulau Merah or G-Land, and travel to Sukamade Beach where turtles come to hatch their eggs. Mountain climbers can hike up from Banyuwangi to the stunning Ijen Crater and be amazed by blue flames that spring out among the yellow sulphurous rocks, cut and gathered manually by traditional miners.

Get There

To visit the many attractions around Banyuwangi it is best to rent a car at the airport or through your hotel or travel agent. Best make sure to have a sturdy and comfortable vehicle especially when you plan to visit mountain regions or savannah, although generally speaking, roads around here are good.

If you wish to travel overland from Bali, catch the ferry at Gilimanuk port, on the western tip of Bali which sails to the port of Ketapang at Banyuwangi. You can of course, also travel by car from Surabaya or any other large city in East Java to Banyuwangi. 

Indonesia’s second largest city, Surabaya is connected directly from abroad by a number of international airlines. You can then connect on Garuda Indonesia or Lion Air flights from Surabaya to Banyuwangi’s Blimbingsari Airport. There are also daily flights from Bali to Banyuwangi.

The city of Banyuwangi is located around 239 km east of Surabaya, capital of the province of East Java. You can travel to Banyuwangi by car or by train.

This article was originally written and published by http://www.indonesia.travel/gb/en/destinations/java/banyuwangi

Photo Source: Indonesia.biz.id