Chilly but Not Freezing: What Foreign Tourists Say About Bromo

TIMESINDONESIA, MALANG – Mount Bromo in East Java, Indonesia, is one of the most breathtaking destinations for travelers. In August, during the dry season, temperatures can drop to 7–12°C (44–53°F) between midnight and sunrise.

These early hours are when most tourists gather at viewpoints like Penanjakan to watch the famous sunrise. Strong winds across the open plateau can make the chill feel sharper than the actual temperature.

For many visitors from tropical countries, this cold feels extreme and requires a thick jacket, gloves, and even a hat. But for tourists who are used to winter back home, the temperature is far from freezing. Instead, it feels more like a cool autumn or early spring morning rather than harsh winter weather.

Perspective of Tourists From Winter Countries

Travelers from Europe, North America, or other regions with cold winters often find Bromo’s climate surprisingly manageable. Since they are used to enduring temperatures below freezing, sometimes even reaching -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) or lower, Bromo’s chill is mild in comparison.

Many even enjoy the refreshing mountain air after experiencing tropical heat in other parts of Indonesia.

Drew, a traveler from Norway, shared his experience after visiting Bromo in August. “Back home in winter, I walk outside when it’s minus 15 degrees. So standing at Bromo in 10 degrees felt easy for me. I just wore a light jacket, and honestly, I was more focused on the sunrise than the cold,” he said.

After Sunrise: From Cold to Comfortable

The moment the sun rises over the horizon, the temperature at Bromo begins to climb steadily. By late morning, the air warms up to around 13–20°C (55–68°F), which is comfortable for walking, hiking, or exploring the sea of sand.

Many visitors quickly remove their jackets as the day feels pleasantly warm compared to the early hours. This change makes Bromo a destination that requires adaptable clothing.

The best approach is layering: wear something warm for the sunrise, then adjust by taking off layers once the day brightens. Tourists from winter countries will likely find themselves comfortable with just a simple hiking clothes like t-shirt and short.

Practical Clothing and Footwear Tips

While the temperature may not be extreme, wearing the right gear still makes the trip more enjoyable. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended, since visitors often walk across sandy terrain, climb uneven steps, and trek up to the crater.

Sports shoes or hiking boots are ideal, while sandals are not recommended. Good footwear also helps keep your feet warm in the early morning. As for clothing, a medium jacket, scarf, and maybe a beanie are more than enough.

"I wear the wrong shoes, and it's better for me just take it off and go up bare foot," Martha, a tourist from Mexico said (12/8/2025). 

Locals also rent jackets at the entrance, but bringing your own is more comfortable and hygienic. For tourists from winter climates, you may find yourself smiling at how mild Bromo feels compared to snowy mountains back home.

So, Is Bromo Too Cold for You?

The simple answer is no. Mount Bromo is not too cold for tourists from winter countries.

In fact, it offers a refreshing contrast, chilly enough to make sunrise magical yet warm enough by midday to walk around comfortably without heavy clothing. The key is to dress in layers, wear proper footwear, and be ready for the wind while waiting for the sunrise.

For those accustomed to icy winters, Bromo’s August climate feels more like a crisp autumn day rather than a brutal snowstorm. Instead of being an obstacle, the cool air enhances the adventure, making the sunrise and the sweeping views of the volcano even more memorable. (*)