Journey Through Java to Bali

Once you have arrived at Yogyakarta International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Once you have checked in you will have the rest of the day at leisure.

Yogyakarta - Borobudur - Candirejo - Yogyakarta. Today, we’ll set out for Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site where we will see ancient carvings and marvel at its stunning architecture with a local monk. We will then make our way to a local restaurant for lunch.

After lunch, we’ll enjoy a horse-drawn dokar ride through Candirejo Village, taking in peaceful lanes lined with traditional houses and witnessing local activities like cassava cracker making, gamelan music, and crop harvesting.

This morning, we’ll discover Yogyakarta’s rich cultural heritage by riding a traditional rickshaw known as a becak in Indonesia. We’ll start at the Royal Palace of Keraton, the centre of Javanese culture, exploring its grounds and admiring the royal garments and artefacts. Then we’ll proceed to the Tamansari Water Castle, a fascinating former royal garden and bathing complex featuring pools, underground tunnels, and ornate architecture. Afterwards, we will then enjoy lunch.

Next, we will explore the ancient art of batik making and shadow puppets, learning about the intricate wax-resist dyeing technique used to create beautiful, hand-crafted textiles rich in traditional patterns and symbolism. We will then visit Prambanan Temple, a 9th-century Hindu marvel before returning to our accommodation.

Yogyakarta - Mojokerto - Bromo. After breakfast, we will take an executive train from Yogyakarta to Mojokerto. During the journey, we will enjoy views of verdant landscapes and rolling hills. We will then visit the breathtaking Madakaripura Waterfall close to Mt Bromo. After we will continue to the hamlet of Cemoro Lawang, followed by a transfer to our mountain lodge close to Mount Bromo.

Please note: Remember to bring water and hiking/sports shoes for the visit to Madakaripura Waterfall.

Bromo - Kalibaru. Today, we will witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Bromo’s volcanic landscape as day breaks and the landscape gradually brightens, revealing the striking form of the volcano. We then set off in a 4-wheel drive jeep to travel down into the wide caldera, followed by a climb up the stairs to the rim for a closer view of the volcano’s dramatic terrain, where the soft morning haze and ash-covered ground create a truly atmospheric experience. Alternatively, you can opt for a horseback ride to the edge of the crater instead of having to walk up the stairs to the crater edge.

Later, we will make our way back to our accommodation by jeep, where we will enjoy breakfast before continuing to Kalibaru. Along the way, we will stop to enjoy lunch and enjoy views of the surrounding area.

Kalibaru - Banyuwangi. After breakfast, we will embark on a tour to explore the coffee, clove, and cacao plantations in Kalibaru, where we will learn about the production process of coffee and brown sugar.

In the afternoon, we will make our way to Banyuwangi, a coastal city located on the eastern tip of Java. Known as the gateway to Bali, Banyuwangi is surrounded by natural beauty, from volcanic peaks to lush plantations, and is rich in local culture and tradition. Once we have checked in, you will have the rest of the day at leisure.

Banyuwangi - Ijen Nature Reserve - Ubud. Banyuwangi - Ijen Nature Reserve - Banyuwangi. Today, we have another early start as we depart at 03:00 AM for the Ijen Nature Reserve. After arriving at the Paltuding Ranger Post, we begin a 3-kilometre uphill trek which takes approximately 90 minutes to reach the rim of Ijen Crater. As the sun rises, we will take in panoramic views of the crater and its striking turquoise sulphur lake set against a dramatic volcanic landscape.

Alternatively, this morning you can opt to join an earlier departure to witness the famous Blue Fire at Mount Ijen, a rare natural phenomenon where electric-blue flames emerge from burning sulphur gas in the darkness, creating an otherworldly and unforgettable spectacle.

Afterwards, we’ll descend from the crater and return to our hotel for breakfast, with some time to freshen up and relax. We then set off for Ketapang Harbour to begin our scenic ferry crossing to Bali. Upon arrival, we continue our journey through Bali to Ubud, where we will spend the night.

This morning, you will have a full day at leisure to explore Ubud at your own pace. You may wish to browse the vibrant local markets, visit nearby art galleries, enjoy a traditional Balinese massage, or take a scenic walk through the lush rice paddies. Alternatively, relax at a café, take in the tranquil atmosphere, or explore nearby temples and hidden corners of this charming town.

Later, we will join back with our fellow travellers at the hotel for a farewell dinner to celebrate our adventure.

After your final breakfast, depending on your departure time, you may have some time to explore Ubud, shop for souvenirs, or relax before your transfer to the airport. Safe travels!