Papandayan Sunrise Trek & Dead Forest - Private Tour

Memorable experience. The trek to see sunrise is like a "virgin trek" , challenging, a bit scary, but all of us were elated when we reached the top. And we were rewarded with having the place all to ourselves to take photos ( btw, we are a group of women in our fifties with moderate fitness level) . Thereafter, we hiked down slightly to see the Golden crater , and were guided to go really close to it. However, we didn't expect the last leg to the Dead Forest is a long climb of 500 steps with some steep parts. While it is said that Mount Papandayan is beginners friendly, one should still have good level of fitness or be trained for the climb. Our backup plan was to take the motorbike services should our legs "give ways" :) Rangga - the trip coordinator - is responsive , and helpful. We took the high speed train from Jarkata and were picked up from Tegalluar train station directly followed by a 3-hour drive to reach Garut without glitches. Accommodation wise, we find their home stay a bit tight for the five of us, but I believe they would be able to recommend alternatives.

Was a great experience, up close to the thermal vents, almost otherworldly. Hike took around 2hrs, starting at 10.30am. Most visitors went for sunrise hike so we were very lucky to be the only one on the crater trail. Great facilities in the area. Lots of food stalls at the starting point. Toilets and huts are available on the trail. We were looked after by our guide (cum photographer) and felt 100% safe at all times, this is truely a unique hike. This private tour includes both pickup and drop off to our hotel in Bandung and the option to stop by souvenir shop on the way. Our driver got us back to the hotel safely despite the heavy traffic. I highly recommend this tour and Javajivi Backpacker for their efficiency.