Situated in the ring of fire, Mount Merapi, an old Javanese language “Mountains of Fire” is a steep stratovolcano located in the north of Jogjakarta, Central Java, Indonesia.
As Indonesia’s most active volcano formed more than 400,000 years ago (Indonesia has at least 129 active volcanoes) Merapi erupts regularly on average of every 5 – 10 years or so.
Although there are still insufficient evidence, many believed a very large eruption in 1006 covered all of Central Java with ash which led to the collapse of Mataram Kingdom.
Worry of further casualties ever since the 2010 eruptions, Merapi area has been closed for residency. Villagers are now relocated but the remains of abandoned house, school, fields; exists.
The area no longer covered in volcanic dust and after three years Merapi is now an active spot for farming, tourism and mining activities.
Touring cost about Rp 250,000 – Rp 500,000 / jeep depending on the route we choose with various types of Jeeps available, but Willy’s my favorite.
Several jeep operators includes:
– Merapi Jeep Adventure
– 88 Merapi Jeep Tour Community
– Cangkringan Merapi Jeep Tour
– Merapi Jeep Tour
Starting from Kaliurang, a village 8 km away from the mountain, we were greeted by the energetic driver cum guide. A very informative, entertaining and talented off road driver took us on a cruise for about 2 hours looking at the remains of the eruptions and strolling through the rugged roads.
Houses were destroyed by the eruptions, roads were covered by stones and sand making it a naturally enjoyable track for off roads.
We visited the Alien rock, a rock forming an alien head.
Rugged tracks.
Abandoned houses
Mining area
Mass cemetery for the 21 victims of 2010’s eruption
A house turned mini museum
Here comes bat mobile, vrooom!
Much love from Indonesia.
Salam Odyssey
Locate Mount Merapi





















Offroad in Kaliurang is really fun and rush my adrenaline!
I still curious about Alien Rock, who is first people give name for this rock? :))
Yeah it’s awesome there isn’t it, beautiful views and very fresh air 🙂 Despite the fact that we are looking through eruption remains which I can’t bare to think of the situation back then
Good question on the alien rock, I have no idea… 😀