The Ambarrukmo Volcano Run is a highly anticipated annual event that combines physical challenge with the breathtaking natural beauty of Mount Merapi’s slopes. Thousands of runners, from all across Indonesia to international participants, look forward to joining it every year. With its invigorating yet demanding routes, this event offers more than a race, it’s an experience of conquering nature while being immersed in majestic mountain scenery.
Beyond the run itself, the event brings together a vibrant atmosphere rich in local culture, lively community participation, and strong support from MSMEs. This makes the Ambarrukmo Volcano Run not just a competition, but a celebration of spirit, community, and sport tourism. Curious about what makes this event so special? Let’s take a closer look!
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What’s Ambarrukmo Volcano Run?
Held in the cool highlands of Kaliurang, Ambarrukmo Volcano Run is an annual running event that was first initiated by the Ubur-Ubur Lari running community back in 2019. From its inception, the race has been designed not only as a sporting event but also as a platform to highlight the region’s natural and cultural richness. Its stunning location, refreshing climate, and scenic views quickly turned it into a favorite for runners nationwide.
What makes the Volcano Run truly unique is its thoughtfully curated route, offering a mix of mountain beauty, challenging trails, and an authentic rural atmosphere. The event welcomes not only seasoned runners but also running enthusiasts of all levels, including families and local communities. Although it paused briefly during the pandemic, the race made a strong comeback with even greater enthusiasm, proving its lasting appeal among both nature lovers and running fans.
In 2024, the race officially evolved into the Ambarrukmo Volcano Run, now managed under the Ambarrukmo Group. This collaboration strengthens the event’s identity as one of Yogyakarta’s flagship sport-tourism events. With the spirit of “Hamemayu Hayuning Bawana, Hamemayu Hayuning Sesama” (preserving harmony with nature and one another), the event aims to generate broad impacts, from tourism promotion and MSME empowerment to boosting the local economy. It stands as a powerful symbol of synergy between sports, culture, and the creative economy in the region.
Previous Event
The excitement of the Ambarrukmo Volcano Run grows stronger with each passing year. Previous editions of the event have drawn thousands of enthusiastic runners from across the country. Let’s take a look back at the highlights from the 2023 and 2024 races.
Nusantara TV Volcano Run by Ambarrukmo 2024
The Nusantara TV Volcano Run by Ambarrukmo 2024 was held on May 12 and attracted around 2,500 participants from local, national, and even international backgrounds. Runners could choose between 5K, 10K, or 21K, with each distance split into Open and Master categories. This inclusive format welcomed all levels of runners. With the support of Nusantara TV, the event gained wide media exposure and stronger recognition as an international race.
Local MSMEs brought the festival to life by offering traditional foods and crafts. Ambarrukmo Volcano Run also offers premium race kits and services, including shuttle buses and hotel promos. The 2024 edition proved once again that Volcano Run is a highlight in Yogyakarta’s sport-tourism calendar.
Ambarrukmo Volcano Run 2023
The Ambarrukmo Volcano Run 2023 was held on May 28, starting and finishing at the Merapi Volcano Museum in Kaliurang. Around 2,500 runners from across Indonesia joined the event, from professional athletes to beginner runners. They were drawn not only by the competitive atmosphere but also by the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Merapi. The route passed through rice fields, salak orchards, hanging bridges, and small rivers, offering a fresh and scenic experience.
Participants received a complete race package, including jerseys, BIBs, bags, snacks, and drinks at every checkpoint. Medical and physiotherapy services were available, along with shuttle buses and lodging promos for out-of-town runners. Winners were selected fairly across three categories, with generous prizes and flexible cut-off times for beginners. The event also featured local food booths and a vibrant festival atmosphere. This successful blend of sport, nature, and culture strengthened its role in promoting Sleman’s sport-tourism.
Race Categories
The Ambarrukmo Volcano Run is designed to be inclusive for all types of runners, from first-timers to seasoned athletes. There are three distances to choose from: 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km (half marathon), each available in two categories: Open (all ages) and Master (age 50+). Gender-based divisions are also in place to ensure fair and balanced competition.
| Distance | Categories |
| 5 km | Open (Men/Women), Master (>50 years) |
| 10 km | Open, Master |
| 21 km (Half-Marathon) | Open, Master |
The 5 km category is ideal for beginners or those wanting to soak in the natural scenery of Merapi without too much pressure. The 10 km suits intermediate runners, while the 21 km half marathon is designed for more experienced athletes up for a serious challenge in a mountainous setting.
These categories reflect the organizers’ commitment to inclusivity and participant comfort. Whether you’re a young adult, seasoned runner, or senior athlete, there’s a race that fits your pace.
Registration Information
Registration for the Ambarrukmo Volcano Run is conducted online through the official website: volcanorun-jogja.com. Participants choose their distance, fill in their details, and complete payment within 60 minutes.
Fees range from IDR 300,000 (5K) to IDR 600,000 (21K), including a race pack with a jersey, BIB, finisher medal, event bag, snacks, medical support, and insurance. Race packs are collected during the Race Pack Collection (RPC) period, usually held 1–2 days before the race.
