Ciwidey

The basics

Along with the White Crater, the highlights of Ciwidey include the Ciwalini Hot Spring, said to have therapeutic waters, and Barusen Hills, a collection of manicured gardens, colorful sculptures, playgrounds, and viewpoints. Day trips from Bandung are the best way to explore the region, as roads can be difficult to navigate. These excursions typically combine the White Crater with a visit to a tea plantation, where you can sample and buy tea.

Things to know before you go

• There are plenty of accommodations available in the Ciwidey area; expect homestays and mid-range options rather than any luxury hotels.

• Ciwidey is famous for its strawberries and there are several pick-your-own farms where you can eat everything you collect.

• Don’t miss batagor, which is Ciwidey’s signature dish, featuring fried fish dumplings smothered in peanut sauce.

How to get there

Ciwidey is 23 miles (38 kilometers) from the major West Java city of Bandung. It takes 1 hour to drive there via the Jl. Soekarno Hatta. The only option for public transportation is local minibuses that don’t operate according to a set schedule, so it’s easiest to arrive as part of a tour.

When to get there

The best time to visit Ciwidey is during the dry season when the weather is cool and sunny, from June through September. No matter what time you visit, Ciwidey is always likely to feel cooler than Bandung, which is hot and humid year-round.

A river adventure in Ciwidey

While hiking tours of the White Crater are one of the most popular activities in Ciwidey, they’re not the only thing to do. You can also go riverboarding on the Ciwidey River, which involves lying face-forward on a board and letting the current carry you—you’ll need to swerve to avoid boulders along the way, so this extreme sport is only suitable for strong swimmers.