You need to start very early, around 1 or 2 AM, to see the famous blue fire because it is only visible in darkness and you must reach the crater before sunrise. The trail is steep and uneven and can be choked with sulfur fumes, so hire a local guide, bring a strong headlamp, sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, water, and a proper respirator or gas mask; goggles help if you plan to descend near the miners. Expect one and a half to three hours of walking from the parking area depending on your pace, and be prepared for cold at the rim and acidic spray near the crater lake. Pay the park fee, follow ranger instructions, and show respect to the miners who work there; if you have respiratory issues, skip the descent into the crater.