It’s origin is volcanic like almost every region on Java, thus creating a fantastic biodiversity with tropical rainforest and mountain rainforest. The highest mountain peak is 3088 meters above sea level and subject to an old legend of Princess Rengganis who once built her empire on the highest mountain top.

Some of the area remains natural and rarely explored by tourists. It is home to abundant wildlife such as leopards, black monkeys called Lutung, birds and snakes. The types of rainforests vary from moss covered, foggy mountain rainforest to tropical rainforest in lower areas. Tall grass and thorn covered leaves of the Girardinia Palmata plant make the trek quite an adventure. One can also experience savanna areas on Argopuro.

Protection

,for conservation (This equates to approximately 14’430 hectars of the entire forest).

The remaining forest is owned by the “Perhutani”, the governmental forest company. There locals plant corn, rubber trees, banana trees, pine trees, cacao trees, coffee and tea.

Illegal logging is a big issue in the region due to the poverty of the people living in the villages around Argopuro, the insufficient protection and support from the government, and the people’s lack of knowledge about the importance of the forest.

There are several trails that run through the mountain range, and though they’re poorly maintained, they are a paradise for experienced trekkers and adventurous people who love true nature! This region also offers beautiful trails and hikes to tourists who look for the uncommon, who bring along enough time, and are ready to ”rough it” in the bush.

To enhace the adventure, there are only a few basic shelters to find along the track, so this can be quite a challenging and amazing experience to spend the night in a tent, especially during the flood of a tropical thunderstorm.

Mountain top and Colonial relicts

This is also an interesting region for those interested in colonial times. On the highest mountain top of Argopuro, there are still ruins of the kingdom of Princess Rengganis who built a temple in times long before Dutch colonialism. Because the Javanese people have a strong belief in magical power, this place is full of legends and mystical tales.

Additionally, ruins of an airstrip are found on the mountain in 2300 meters above sea level. The airstrip, built by the Dutch colonialists in the middle of nowhere, helped to deliver goods that were used to build a ranch and a meat factory. In 1943 it was destroyed by the Dutch so that the Japanese conquerors weren’t able to use it for military actions during the 2nd World War. In another spot, one may visit ancient Hindu temples from times before Islam came to Java in the 15th century.

You also need to ask the spirits for permission if you need to urinate. If you don’t do so, the spirits might punish you with bad luck or you might not find your way back.

With a little bit of luck trekkers may meet local people from the village of Bermi. These villagers are often found fishing at the craterlake at Taman Hidup, which is a steep 6-hour walk from Bermi. They usually spend 2-3 days at the lake, build their own tents out of grass and leaves, and bring home fish for their families. It’s a very impressive sight.

Starting at the village of Bermi, you can easily reach a beautiful waterfall in only about 40 minutes. This waterfall with crystal clear water is located in a wonderfully natural surrounding of tropical rainforest. Standing under the pouring water will refresh your body and your soul.

Starting at Gunung Pasang, close to Jember, will also give you the chance to hike to a beautiful waterfall in in about a one and a half hour hike. Much like the one in Bermi, this waterfall is surrounded by tropical rainforest and carries crystal clear water.

The Argopuro mountain range has much to offer: daytrips to waterfalls, weekend trips to the craterlake at Taman Hidup, as well as week long trekking to remote places for those who want to take their time. It’s all there, waiting to be explored!