Why is Banyuwangi the Launch Venue for the 2026 Geopark Run Series?
Banyuwangi — The Banyuwangi Regency in East Java is once again hosting a national sport tourism event. This time, the easternmost region of Java has been selected as the starting point for the 2026/2027 Geopark Run Series, organised by the Ministry of Tourism.
Through the Ijen Geopark Run scheduled for 23 August 2026, Banyuwangi will kick off the running event series, which will also take place in Minang, West Sumatra; Ciletuh, West Java; and Belitong, Bangka Belitung Islands.
‘This initiative is a strategic step to strengthen sport tourism development in Indonesia,’ said Widiyanti during the Geopark Run Series launch in Jakarta on Friday, 22 May 2026.
She added that the event not only offers sports experiences but also encourages tourists to enjoy the natural, cultural, and creative economic assets of the host regions.
Over recent years, Banyuwangi has actively developed sport tourism through various national and international events, including Tour de Banyuwangi Ijen, Ijen Green Trail Run, and events at Alas Purwo National Park such as Duathlon Alas Purwo and Alas Purwo Jungle Run.
Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani said the selection of Banyuwangi as the launch venue provides an opportunity to further promote the area’s natural tourism potential, particularly the Ijen Geopark region.
‘Thank you to the Ministry of Tourism for their trust. This is Banyuwangi’s chance to showcase its sport tourism strength and the natural wealth we possess,’ Ipuk said during the same event.
Ipuk added that developing sport tourism in Banyuwangi focuses not only on sports but also on allowing tourists to experience the unique natural surroundings.
‘We continue to develop various sporting events in the Ijen Geopark area, from running to downhill cycling and international cycling races,’ Ipuk said.
Meanwhile, race pack collection is scheduled for mid-August 2026, specifically from Friday, 21 August to Saturday, 22 August. The race day will take place on Sunday, 23 August in Banyuwangi.
Following the opening series in Banyuwangi, the Geopark Run Series will continue with Minang Geopark Run in November 2026, followed by Ciletuh Geopark Run in January 2027, and Belitong Geopark Run in April 2027.