A long road to Savanna

We were finally up at the edge of Mount Bromo’s crater, after climbing the steep staircase. The pungent white sulphurous smoke belching out from the center of the crater made us sick. Walking around the edge was scary, especially at the area near the upper end of the staircase. It was so crowded with people and the ledge for people to gaze into the crater measured at only about a meter wide. Most people stay here without venturing further because this is the only area where pre-cautionary railing is installed. This should be the safest area but to me it’s the most dangerous spot. Imagine if you are accidently pushed by others or any misstep happens, you will either end up falling down onto the foot of Mount Bromo, or head straight into the heart of the crater. No joke!

There’s basically not much things to see at the crater. That’s why most people leave after taking some candid shots here. I walked further away from the noisy crowd after a steady climb around the fringe of the crater. The wind blew so strong that I could feel the pain caused by the ashes that slapped onto my face. At times, it was serene and I managed to enjoy the surrounding views, in peace. The sights from here are much more eye pleasing. I spent some time admiring this vast volcanic plateau, which consists of some interesting volcanic landforms – vast area of black sands (called Sea of Sands or Tengger Sand Sea), rocky terrain, some other volcano’s peaks, deserts, mountain ranges and plenty of lush greens.

After descending from Mount Bromo, we decided to explore the surrounding area by foot. The locals told us that there is a beautiful area behind Mount Bromo called Savanna. According to them, it is very near, only a couple of kilometres away. We actually believe it and end up walking for more than 3 hours before reaching Savanna . . . . .