Volcanic Eruption in East Java Now Disrupts Trekking Tourism, Sparking Safety Concerns for Travelers

Published on November 21, 2025

Semeru, Indonesia’s highest volcano, located on Java Island, caused the evacuation of over 170 campers on the Ranu Kumbolo campsite in East Java’s Lumajang district, after having its first unannounced eruption on Wednesday. The eruption has already begun to disrupt the tourism activities in the vicinity, especially for the trekkers who travel to the mountain for its breathtaking views and strenuous terrain over the active volcano.

While the eruption is active and still being monitored by the regulatory authorities, the eruption has and will continue to severely diminish the tourism potential of the site for active sports practitioners, particularly mountaineers and enthusiasts of adventure tourism and activities. The climbers, tourism officials, guides and porters were ensnared by the eruption of the popular trekking mountain, 3,676 meters (12,060 feet) in altitude, and has thus become illustrative of the necessity of establishing sufficient safety measures and protocols for trekking tourism in the volcanic region of Indonesia.

Rescue Operations and the Eruption of Mount Semeru

Indonesian authorities estimate that there were approximately 178 individuals that were either climbing the mountain or stationed in the Ranu Kumbolo camping ground when the eruption occurred. Because of the scale and gravity of the situation, the officials were compelled to mobilise the military, local authorities, and rescue teams in a rescue mission to evacuate the individuals that were trapped. The evacuation of the climbers took place is phases and there were no fatalities, though some were injured.

The eruption of Mount Semeru once again highlights the highly active volcanic region that is Indonesia. Mount Semeru, in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java is also one of the most famous volcanoes, and the area draws in a high number of adventure tourists, lovers of nature, and trekkers who appreciate mountainous regions.

Authorities warn that the continuing seismic activity could result in further eruptions and that the region’s tourism infrastructure is at risk. Those who were planning on trekking Mount Semeru in the next few weeks are strongly advised to wait until the volcanic activity shows signs of stabilisation.

The Impact of Mount Semeru on Adventure Tourism in Indonesia

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Indonesia is trekking, thanks to the numerous volcanoes and active trekking routes. Mount Semeru, with its impressive views and challenging trails, is one of the country’s most popular trekking peaks. The eruption significantly impacted East Java’s adventure tourism, concerning international trekkers and climbers who want to experience East Java’s landscape.

The Semeru trek has been one of the region’s most popular tourist activities, attracting thousands of trekkers each year. The recent eruption has directly impacted local entrepreneurs who service the trek, including tour and transport companies, accommodation suppliers, and guides, by temporarily stopping all trekking for the region.

The local tourism economy will be significantly impacted if the volcanic activity continues and the mountain is closed for a prolonged period. In Ventra L, Semeru’s eruption directly affects the economically dependent communities by drastically decreasing tourist visitation, leading to a reduced economy throughout the region.

Volcanic Tourism in Indonesia

Indonesian volcanic tourism captures the attention of many around the globe, despite the challenges associated with volcanic eruptions in the region. Indonesia’s geological makeup creates a range of trekking and adventure tourism opportunities. That said, the risks associated with trekking of some of the more dangerous active volcanoes, such as Mount Semeru, must be mitigated.

The Mount Semeru incident serves as a reminder for Indonesia’s tourism authorities to revisit and refine protocols regarding safety measures, emergency procedures, and the education of tourists in volcano trekking. One of the major gaps needing to be addressed are the real-time alerts of active volcanos, and the collaboration with local residents and emergency response services.

The overall emphasis of government policy is expected to shift towards both active volcano tourism and the associated public safety measures, along with the value in maintaining the livelihood of the local tourism-dependent community. More and better regulations, as well as preparation for future active eruptions, will be essential in maintaining the thriving value in Indonesia’s volcanic tourism.

Alternates in Indonesia

For tourists who were going to Mount Semeru or other volcanic areas in East Java, Indonesia has numerous other attractions to explore. Mounts, beaches, and cultural heritage come together in the hot spots of Indonesia, like Bali and Yogyakarta. For Indonesia’s international tourists, Bali and Yogyakarta are hot spots because of the diverse tourism experiences they provide, like surfing, cultural hiking, and nature exploration. They Bali and Yogyakarta are hot spots because of the diverse tourism experiences they provide and have millions of international tourists every year as a result. Hiking and nature exploring are especially popular because of the cultural heritage Indonesia has.

In addition, volcanic tourism is alive in Mount Agung in Bali, Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, and Kelimutu in Flores. While travellers enjoy the beauty of Indonesia’s volcanic tourism, they are kept safe as long as they are educated on local alerts and safety measures.

Conclusion

The explosion at Mount Semeru exemplifies the dangers which can arise from adventure tourism, especially in areas with active volcanoes. Following the eruption, further developing the tourism sector in Indonesia should focus on establishing safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and educating tourists. Although the eruption will affect tourism in East Java in the short term, the province will continue to attract adventure tourists with its beautiful volcanoes and rich culture. With the development of suitable tourism and effective risk management, Indonesia can maintain exceptional volcanic tourism and protect the safety of its tourists.