Journey Above the Clouds – Mount Merbabu Trek via Selo

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Journey Above the Clouds – Mount Merbabu Trek via Selo

18 Oktober 2025 22:32:02 / / Hits : 167 / Posted by Administrator

Mount Merbabu Adventure – Conquer the Summit via Selo Route

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Merbabu, a majestic volcano with five official hiking trails Thekelan, Cuntel, Wekas, Suwanting, and Selo. Among them, the Selo route is the most scenic, offering wide open views of Mount Merapi and Mount Lawu rising proudly on the horizon.

The trek via Selo takes approximately 7 to 8 hours from the basecamp to Kenteng Songo Peak 3142 meters above sea level, the highest point of Mount Merbabu.
Trail Overview and Estimated Hiking Time
The Selo route features 52 distance markers, each spaced 100 meters apart, covering a total distance of about 5.2 kilometers from the entrance gate to the summit. Below is the estimated hiking time for each section.
Basecamp – Pos 1 (Dokmalang)
Around 1 hour 30 minutes
The journey starts at 1836 meters above sea level through shaded forest with gentle slopes. Pos 1, known as Dokmalang 2189 meters, is famous for its playful monkeys, so be sure to secure your snacks well.
Pos 1 – Pos 2 (Pandean)
Around 1 hour 30 minutes
A short flat section leads to Pos Kota or Simpang Macan before the path steepens. At Pos 2 Pandean 2412 meters, you will enjoy the first glimpses of open mountain scenery.
Pos 2 – Pos 3 (Watu Tulis)
Around 45 minutes
A steady climb takes you to Pos 3 Watu Tulis 2593 meters. The name Watu Tulis means Written Rock, named after an old stone once inscribed by early climbers. It is now a peaceful rest or camping spot with a stunning view of Mount Merapi surrounded by Edelweiss flowers.
Pos 3 – Sabana 1 (Jemblongan)
Around 1 hour 20 minutes
This section is steeper and more challenging. During the rainy season, the trail can become slippery, so extra care is needed. Reaching Sabana 1 at 2770 meters is rewarding, with a vast green meadow and panoramic views of Mount Merapi. It is also a popular and safe camping area.
Sabana 1 – Sabana 2 (Gunung Kenong and Kukusan)
Around 30 minutes
The ascent continues with moderate slopes and a short descent before arriving at Sabana 2 at 2856 meters. This open field is the final major campsite before the summit and offers a perfect place to rest and prepare for the final climb.
Sabana 2 – Summit (Kenteng Songo Peak)
Around 1 hour 45 minutes
The final stretch is steep and demanding. Most hikers begin before dawn to witness the Golden Sunrise from the top. At 3142 meters above sea level, Kenteng Songo Peak stands proudly above the Triangulasi and Syarif peaks.
The Golden Sunrise of Mount Merbabu
The Golden Sunrise is the highlight of every Merbabu trek. As the horizon glows gold above a sea of clouds, fatigue fades away, replaced by awe and serenity. It is a sight that words can barely describe, a moment that stays with you long after the descent.
For many hikers, the hardest part of the journey is not the climb itself, but leaving what feels like a paradise above the clouds.
Let Us Handle the Details for You
Want to experience Mount Merbabu without worrying about permits, guides, or logistics
Leave everything to us.
We provide a complete trekking service for Mount Merbabu via Selo, including
• Hiking equipment rental
• Porter and helper services
• Experienced local mountain guide
• Round trip transportation from and to basecamp
• Comfortable pre hike accommodation
Enjoy a safe, fun, and unforgettable mountain adventure, all arranged by our professional team.
Perfect for adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers
Location Selo, between Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu, Central Java
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