"The mountain with the longest hiking trail in Indonesia, here is Argopuro!"

Ficture: Ilustration Artistic

Mount Argopuro is one of the mountains located in East Java Province, Indonesia. This mountain is famous for having the longest hiking trail on Java Island and its stunning natural scenery. With an elevation of 3,088 meters above sea level (masl), Argopuro offers a challenging hiking experience while providing extraordinary natural beauty. This article will provide a comprehensive review of hiking Mount Argopuro, covering hiking routes, natural attractions, and necessary preparations.

History and Myths of Mount Argopuro

 Mount Argopuro has a fascinating history and mythology. One of the most well-known legends is the story of Dewi Rengganis, a princess from the Majapahit Kingdom who is believed to have meditated on this mountain. Additionally, many other myths have developed among hikers, including tales of sacred sites along the hiking trail.

Hiking Trails of Mount Argopuro Mount Argopuro has several hiking routes, but the two most commonly used are:

1. Baderan Route (Situbondo) This is the most popular and recommended hiking route. From Baderan, hikers will pass through various posts with diverse terrain, including fields, tropical forests, and vast savannas.

2. Bremi Route (Probolinggo) This route has steeper terrain and is shorter than the Baderan route but remains challenging. Hikers using this route usually descend via the Baderan route to experience a more complete hiking adventure.

Natural Beauty of Mount Argopuro One of Mount Argopuro’s main attractions is its diverse natural beauty. Here are some iconic spots along the journey:

• Cikasur Savanna This savanna is one of the most famous spots on the Argopuro hiking trail. Its vast grasslands with a mountainous backdrop provide breathtaking views. Here, hikers can also find remnants of an old airstrip from the Dutch colonial era.

• Taman Hidup Lake This lake is a must-visit destination for hikers of Mount Argopuro. With its clear water and tranquil atmosphere, it is an ideal location to rest and enjoy nature.

• Rengganis Peak This peak is believed to be the meditation site of Dewi Rengganis. Hikers can enjoy magnificent views and experience a mystical ambiance in this location.

Hiking Preparations Given the length of the Mount Argopuro hiking trail, thorough preparation is essential. Here are some things to prepare before the hike:

1. Physical and Mental Readiness Hiking Mount Argopuro requires excellent stamina as the journey can take up to 5-7 days. Therefore, physical training such as jogging and strength exercises is highly recommended.

2. Equipment and Logistics

o A tent and sleeping bag for overnight stays at rest stops.

o Appropriate clothing for mountain conditions.

o Cooking equipment and sufficient food supplies.

o Personal medications and a first aid kit.

3. Navigation and Hiking Permit

o Carrying a map or using GPS to avoid getting lost.

o Obtaining a hiking permit at the registration post before starting the hike.

Challenges and Difficulties Hiking Mount Argopuro presents several challenges, including:

• A long hiking distance requiring good stamina and preparation.

• Drastic weather changes, from scorching heat to heavy rain.

• The possibility of encountering wild animals in the forest.

Tips for Hiking Mount Argopuro To ensure a smooth hiking experience, consider these tips:

1. Avoid hiking alone; it is best to hike in a group.

2. Ensure you bring complete hiking gear.

3. Always maintain cleanliness and avoid leaving trash along the trail.

4. Bring enough food but not too much to reduce the load.

5. Prepare mentally, as the long journey can be a test of endurance.

Uniqueness of Mount Argopuro Mount Argopuro is known for having the longest hiking trail on Java Island. Another uniqueness is its diverse landscapes, ranging from tropical forests and savannas to lakes. Additionally, Mount Argopuro is home to various wildlife species such as deer, wild boars, and peacocks.

Conclusion Mount Argopuro is an extraordinary destination for nature lovers and hikers seeking challenges. With its long but beautiful trails, hiking this mountain offers an unforgettable experience. For anyone looking to explore Indonesia’s natural beauty, Mount Argopuro is a highly recommended choice.

This hike not only provides physical challenges but also offers stunning natural scenery and an in-depth experience of Indonesia’s biodiversity. With proper preparation, hikers can enjoy an adventurous and mesmerizing journey on one of East Java’s most remarkable mountains