Grade 9th of SMP Islam Tugasku had explored the eastern part of Java on 14 – 16 May 2026. We had a chance to visit the natural and cultural wonders of Banyuwangi. On the first day, De Djawatan was our first destination. A forest full of old, gigantic trembesi (Samanea saman) trees with lichen on its branches was giving us a magical sensation. It felt like we were on the set of The Lord of The Rings movie. The next stop was Pulau Merah Beach, a beautiful shore with a single Pulau Merah as the main sight and wide southern ocean scenery and captivating waves are such a pleasure to our eyes.
On the second day, our early morning was spent with a road trip to another natural phenomenon. Wurung Crater, a geological wonder with its lush green scenery that is famous as the Switzerland of Java. Wurung means failed or undone. The crater was once an active volcanic caldera but as the lava emptied from the magma chamber, the crater became a plain.
The famous Savana Bekol in Baluran National Park became our next stop. Witnessing the Africa van Java with our own eyes was such a blessing, the savanna with Mount Baluran is really worth seeing. Our day was ended by visiting the Kemiren Cultural Village where we had dinner and enjoyed the well-known Gandrung Dance. The dance was stunning.
This year’s Educational Trip reminded us to always be grateful to live in Indonesia. The beautiful natural and diverse culture made us proud. Hope this trip leaves a strong feeling to Batch 21 of SMP Islam Tugasku. Big thanks to the Parents Committee who arranged this memorable trip. Kudos
