Indonesia closes Mount Bromo routes as wildfire spreads

A wildfire raging in Indonesia's Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has prompted the closure of three popular access routes to Mount Bromo. The blaze, which ignited on Monday, August 3, 2026, in the Bantengan Block, has spread into the Watu Gede area, forcing park authorities to restrict access.

Firefighting teams, comprising registered Mount Semeru hiking guides, local residents from Ngadas and Ranu Pani villages, and Indonesian military personnel, are actively battling the flames. However, their efforts are being challenged by difficult terrain, including steep cliffs, and strong winds that are fanning the fire and hindering containment.

The national park agency reported that the fire broke out around 5 p.m. local time on Monday. The cause of the wildfire remains under investigation, with authorities yet to determine its origin. Equipment support has been provided by the disaster mitigation agencies of Probolinggo and Malang regencies to aid the suppression efforts.

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The fire has reached Watu Gede and has not yet been extinguished.

To ensure the safety of emergency personnel and the public, authorities implemented closures for three tourist access routes: Jemplang and Coban Trisula in Malang District, and Senduro in Lumajang District. These closures took effect at 10 p.m. on Tuesday and will remain in place until further notice. Visitors can still access Mount Bromo via the Cemoro Lawang route in Probolinggo District and the Wonokitri route in Pasuruan District.

Park officials are urging the public to continue supporting the emergency crews in their efforts to bring the wildfire under control as quickly as possible. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced in managing natural parklands amidst environmental and climatic conditions.

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The cause is still being investigated.