Safety Tips for Tourists Who Want to Climb an Active Volcano

Mountain hiking is one of the most beloved activities for nature enthusiasts in Indonesia. Yet for all the breathtaking beauty of mountain landscapes, there are inherent risks that must be fully understood — particularly when trekking on active volcanoes.

For this reason, the Ministry of Tourism has reminded travellers that adequate knowledge and thorough preparation are non-negotiable before any hiking trip.

In an official statement released Friday, the Ministry of Tourism emphasised that all visitors and hikers must verify the condition and activity status of a mountain before commencing their journey.

The first recommended step is to check the activity status of volcanoes via the MAGMA Indonesia application. This official tool was developed by the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG).

This published status data serves as the critical official reference to determine whether a mountain is safe for public access.

The Ministry of Tourism stated that safety must always be the absolute top priority. If a mountain is declared unsafe for hiking, all travellers and hikers are required to cancel their planned trips.

Conversely, if a mountain remains cleared for recreational activity, hikers are still obliged to follow all official regulations. This includes strictly observing the designated safe zones and restricted hazard boundaries established around volcano areas.

Beyond verifying mountain conditions, hikers are also strongly advised to use the services of certified local guides with proven on-site experience. Qualified guides play a vital role in helping travellers make safe, informed decisions when faced with sudden changes in environmental conditions.

"Always engage a certified local guide. These personnel are trained to accurately identify safe terrain, as well as recognise when conditions require abandoning a hike entirely," the Ministry of Tourism advised.

Physical preparation must also not be overlooked. Mountain hiking demands excellent physical stamina, due to difficult terrain and rapidly fluctuating weather conditions.

Alongside physical fitness, all hiking gear must be properly prepared ahead of time. The Ministry of Tourism reminded hikers to use backpacks and footwear designed specifically for outdoor wilderness activity.

Additionally, travellers are recommended to carry respiratory masks as a precaution. These will provide protection in the event of volcanic ash falls or toxic gas releases that can pose serious health risks during a trip.

The Ministry of Tourism also stressed the importance of complying fully with all regulations issued by PVMBG and official mountain area managers. Hikers are forbidden from entering restricted areas or disregarding warnings issued by on-duty staff.

Following instructions from field personnel is a core part of responsible hiking culture. Hikers are also urged never to push onwards to a summit or crater if weather conditions or volcanic activity indicate it is unsafe to proceed.

"A competent hiker is not someone who risks their life to reach the top. A good hiker knows when to turn back, for their own safety and the safety of everyone around them," stated the Ministry of Tourism.

This message serves as a reminder that a successful hike is not measured only by reaching the summit — it is measured by returning home safely.

Choosing to end a journey when risks emerge is an act of responsibility, both to oneself and to fellow hikers on the mountain.

Alongside all safety measures, the Ministry of Tourism also calls on all visitors to protect and preserve the natural environment while in mountain areas.

Respecting the natural world ensures that Indonesia's magnificent mountain landscapes will remain intact, to be enjoyed by future generations.

With proper prior knowledge, good physical preparation, adequate gear, and full respect for official regulations, mountain hiking can be a safe, comfortable and unforgettable experience for every traveller.