A Legendary Agrotourism Adventure in the Heart of Banyuwangi
For explorers who frequently travel overland from Yogyakarta to Bali, the far reaches of East Java always hold a million hidden charms. One destination that should definitely be on your itinerary is Kalibaru Plantation Tour, a cool-air district on the slopes of Mount Raung in Banyuwangi.
Recognized since the Dutch colonial era as one of the best plantation commodity centers in the archipelago, this place offers a unique experience through the Kalibaru Plantation Tour.
Why Is Kalibaru So Special?
Situated at an altitude of approximately 400 meters above sea level, Kalibaru is blessed with extremely fertile volcanic soil and a cool microclimate. During the Dutch East Indies colonial era, this area was transformed into a giant plantation area.
To this day, remnants of colonial architecture, the landscape of the cinder (plantation manager) house, and traditional agricultural processing processes are still maintained with utmost authenticity. Taking the Kalibaru Plantation Tour is like taking a trip back in time, inhaling the scent of history amidst the pristine nature of Banyuwangi.
Featured Activities on the Kalibaru Plantation Tour
1. World Commodity Education: Coffee, Cocoa, Rubber, and Spices
Accompanied by an experienced local guide, you’ll be taken along plantation paths to get a close-up look at coffee trees (Robusta and Arabica), cocoa trees (Cocoa), oil palms, and spice plants like cloves, nutmeg, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Witness the Traditional Rubber Tapping Process
One of the most captivating attractions for international tourists is watching plantation workers tap the rubber sap (latex) from the trees in the traditional way. You can also visit a mini processing factory to see how the liquid sap is processed into export-ready rubber sheets.
3. Making Brown Sugar (Coconut Sugar)
You’ll be taken to a traditional local kitchen to witness the process of making brown sugar from coconut sap. This includes the expert climbing of coconut trees, the boiling of the sap over a wood-fired stove, and the tasting of the sweet, rich, warm coconut sugar.
4. Enjoy an Afternoon in the Garden with Authentic Cuisine
The tour typically concludes with relaxing on the colonial-style veranda, enjoying a cup of Kalibaru coffee or hot tea served with fried bananas, boiled cassava, and fresh tropical fruits freshly picked from the garden.
