There are few natural wonders that can compete with the magnificent yet destructive force of an active volcano. In East Java, Indonesia, Mount Bromo stands at 2,329 meters tall in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park — its almighty presence felt by all who are lucky enough to witness it.

Willem van den Heever — an expedition filmmaker, photographer, environmentalist and explorer from Cape Town, South Africa — made the lengthy journey to visit Mount Bromo to create this film for Silversea. To reach Indonesia, one can take Silversea cruises that also explore Asia, French Polynesia & the Pacific, and the Kimberley region off Western Australia.

On his adventure, van den Heever traveled by Zodiac, bus, 4×4 and jeep to reach Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Once there, van den Heever says, witnessing Mount Bromo’s unpredictable volcanic activity was one of the greatest rewards he’s ever had behind the camera.

The elements in full force

When traveling through the forest on the journey to Mount Bromo, and viewing the peaks that emerge from the mist, it’s clear how wild and unforgiving this natural environment is. The relentless power of this volcano demands respect as sulfurous plumes of smoke billow into the skies overhead and across the blackened landscape.

For those travelers who long to observe the grandeur of the elements, Mount Bromo might just be the trip of a lifetime.

Ready to experience marvels such as Mount Bromo and Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park? Start by browsing Silversea’s expedition cruises, including those that stop in Indonesia.