DIY vs Guided

Open Trip Comparison

Should you book a package or self-drive? Here's the honest breakdown for 2 people.

πŸš— Self-Drive (Your Plan)

Cheapest

Rp 2.6M

Total for 2 pax Β· 4D3N Route B Β· mid-tier

βœ“ Advantages

  • β€’ Cheapest for 2 pax (~Rp 1.3M/person)
  • β€’ Total freedom β€” own pace, own schedule
  • β€’ Your own car from Singaraja β€” no pickup logistics
  • β€’ Privacy β€” just the two of you
  • β€’ Can modify itinerary on the fly

βœ— Downsides

  • β€’ You drive yourself (fatigue on long days)
  • β€’ No guide β€” arrange everything yourself
  • β€’ Must book boats/tickets separately
  • β€’ Ijen requires licensed guide (~Rp 500K extra)
  • β€’ No insurance or documentation

🚐 Guided Open Trip (3D2N)

Hassle-free

Rp 3.0–3.6M

Total for 2 pax Β· 3D2N all-in packages

βœ“ Advantages

  • β€’ Everything arranged β€” just show up
  • β€’ Licensed guide at every attraction
  • β€’ Snorkeling gear + life jacket included
  • β€’ Photos/documentation included
  • β€’ Meet locals and other travelers in group
  • β€’ Insurance coverage

βœ— Downsides

  • β€’ More expensive (~Rp 1.5–1.8M/person)
  • β€’ Fixed group schedule β€” less flexibility
  • β€’ 3D2N only (no 4D3N open trips available)
  • β€’ Must get to Banyuwangi meeting point yourself
  • β€’ Accommodation may be basic (homestay)
πŸ’‘

Our honest take for your situation:

You already have a car in Singaraja and want a 4-day trip with Pulau Merah sunset. No open trip offers 4D3N β€” they're all 3D2N. Self-drive saves Rp 400K–1M and gives you the extra day. If you want a guided experience, book a one-day Ijen guide separately (~Rp 500K) and self-drive everything else. Best of both worlds.

All Open Trip Packages

Click any row to expand the full itinerary and inclusions.

Operator Duration Price/pax Min Pax Schedule Key Feature