Best Drone Shots of Mount Bromo (and Rules to Follow)

The Allure of Drone Photography at Bromo

Capturing Mount Bromo from the air is an entirely different experience compared to ground-level photography. From the drone’s vantage point, you can frame:

• The majestic caldera rim,

• The symmetrical cone of Mount Batok,

• The smoking crater of Mount Bromo,

• And even the sea of sand (Lautan Pasir) that stretches like a desert.

This makes it an ideal location for hobbyists and professional filmmakers looking to capture dramatic nature content.

Best Drone Shot Locations Around Mount Bromo

1. Pananjakan Viewpoint

While most visitors enjoy sunrise from this viewpoint with the naked eye, flying a drone here gives you the chance to frame Bromo, Semeru, and Batok in a single majestic sweep. The golden hour light at dawn adds dramatic depth to the aerial footage.

2. Whispering Sand (Pasir Berbisik)

This expanse of volcanic sand is surreal when captured from above. The wind-shaped dunes, occasional lone riders on horseback, and wandering tourists make it look like a scene from a movie. Use top-down shots to create minimalistic yet powerful compositions.

3. Savanna (Bukit Teletubbies)

Contrasting the ash and sand, this lush green area to the south of Mount Bromo offers vibrant colors, especially during the rainy season. From the air, the rolling hills resemble a soft blanket of green—perfect for cinematic landscape shots.

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4. The Crater Rim

While flying directly over the crater is discouraged or prohibited (depending on regulations), you can still frame stunning shots from the side, capturing the smoke plume rising from the depths of the volcano.

5. Kingkong Hill and Love Hill (Bukit Cinta)

These spots offer not only amazing ground-level sunrise views but also high elevation takeoff points. From here, drones can capture a wide arc of the Tengger Caldera with fewer chances of signal interference.

Rules and Regulations: Flying Legally and Safely

Mount Bromo is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS), a protected conservation area. Therefore, flying drones here requires special attention to rules established by both the national park authorities and Indonesian aviation law.

1. Obtain a Permit

You cannot fly drones freely in the park. Permits are generally required, especially for commercial use, including:

• A written application to the TNBTS office

• Description of your drone model and flight plan

• Purpose of the shoot (commercial, personal, research)

• Insurance or liability agreement

Tip: Submit your permit request well in advance. Processing may take several days to a week.

2. Follow National Drone Regulations

According to Indonesian Civil Aviation Authority (DGCA), here are general rules:

• Maximum altitude: 120 meters (400 feet)

• Distance from people or crowds: Minimum 30 meters

• Drones must weigh less than 25 kg unless special permission is obtained

• No flying at night unless authorized

• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) must be maintained

3. Respect Local Communities and Culture

Many areas around Bromo are sacred to the Tenggerese people. Avoid flying over religious ceremonies or temples like Pura Luhur Poten, especially during Kasada Festival, unless given explicit cultural clearance.

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