Title: Hiking Mount Semeru Just Got Costlier: New Mandatory Guide Fees
Article:
Mount Semeru’s popularity as a hiking destination has surged, but so have its costs. In addition to entry tickets, hikers are now obligated to pay a daily fee for the mandatory services of official guides. This decision, announced on the official Instagram handle of the management, came into effect on December 31, 2024.
The official guides, registered under the name PPGST, are to accompany hikers throughout their journey. Their presence is expected to enhance safety, particularly on challenging terrains with high risks, and promote environmental conservation. Moreover, this move is aimed at empowering local communities and minimizing accidents.
"The role of PPGST is to ensure comfort, safety, and monitor adherence to rules. PPGST are not guides or porters," the entity clarified.
Hikers who have already arranged open trips, guides, or porters are nonetheless required to engage the services of the official PPGST due to their status as an approved collective (paguyuban binaan).
It’s worth noting that the entirety of the fee goes directly to PPGST and does not contribute to state coffers.
Details of the Mandatory Guide Fee: Rp 300,000 per day
- Online reservation is available on the official website of BB.TNBTS (bookingsemeru.bromotenggersemeru.org).
- Use of PPGST services is mandatory (as per BB.TNBTS procedures).
- Quota allocation is subject to PPGST availability.
- Minimum group size is 2 persons, with a maximum of 10 persons per guide.
- No mid-journey personnel substitution is allowed.
- Each hiker must carry their original identification (KTP/KK) that matches reservation data.
- The implementation of this regulation makes Ranu Kumbolo and Semeru the only special interest tourist destinations to mandate official guides.
- Porter services currently range from Rp 250,000 to Rp 300,000 per day for local tourists, with guide services starting at Rp 350,000 per day for locals, and Rp 500,000 for international visitors.
Mount Semeru Hiking Fees
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Local Hiker Fees:
- Weekday: Rp 20,000 per person per day
- Weekend/Holiday: Rp 30,000 per person per day
- Hiking Activity: Rp 20,000 per person per hike
- Camping Activity: Rp 5,000 per person per day
- Insurance: Rp 4,000 per person per day
- International Hiker Fees:
- Weekday/Weekend/Holiday: Rp 200,000 per person per day
- Hiking Activity: Rp 20,000 per person per hike
- Camping Activity: Rp 5,000 per person per day
- Insurance: Rp 5,000 per person per day
Daily Hiker Quota
The daily hiker quota for Mount Semeru stands at 200 individuals. Adjustments or increases to this quota are made based on feedback and online bookingresults, as stated on the TNBTS website.
(msl/fem)
