Journey Details and Highlights
Small Group Journeys
Departure on specific dates Monday
Guaranteed with 4 Travellers
Group Size max 16 Travellers
Experience the best of Java and Bali on this captivating 9-day journey through Indonesia’s cultural and natural wonders. Begin in Yogyakarta, exploring the awe-inspiring Borobudur and Prambanan temples, and immersing yourself in village life and Javanese traditions. Travel by train across lush countryside to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Bromo, where a sunrise jeep adventure reveals otherworldly panoramas. Continue to Kalibaru to discover fragrant coffee, clove, and cacao plantations before trekking to the turquoise crater lake of Mount Ijen, with the option to witness its famed Blue Fire. Cross by ferry into Bali and unwind in Ubud, surrounded by serene beauty and artistic charm. Blending heritage, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, this journey promises unforgettable memories from start to finish.
Yogyakarta to Bali Cultural Journey
Day 1: Yogyakarta Arrival
Welcome to Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java. Upon arrival at Yogyakarta International Airport, your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to relax after your journey, or wander through the city’s lively streets filled with heritage and charm. This evening, settle in and feel the anticipation build for the unforgettable adventure that lies ahead.
Overnight in Santika Premiere Hotel (or similar)Day 1: Yogyakarta Arrival
Welcome to Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java. Upon arrival at Yogyakarta International Airport, your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to relax after your journey, or wander through the city’s lively streets filled with heritage and charm. This evening, settle in and feel the anticipation build for the unforgettable adventure that lies ahead.
Overnight in Santika Premiere Hotel (or similar)Day 2: Borobudur & Candirejo Village (B/ L)
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient carvings and stunning architecture will leave you in awe. After lunch at a local restaurant, experience the charm of rural life with a horse-drawn dokar ride through Candirejo Village. Travel along peaceful lanes lined with traditional houses and witness local activities such as cassava cracker making, gamelan music, and crop harvesting.
Overnight in Santika Premiere Hotel (or similar)Day 3: Yogyakarta City & Prambanan Temple (B/ L)
Explore Yogyakarta’s rich cultural heritage aboard a traditional becak (rickshaw), beginning with a visit to the Royal Palace (Keraton), the heart of Javanese culture. Walk through the palace grounds, admiring the royal garments and artifacts, then continue to the Tamansari Water Castle. After lunch, discover the ancient art of batik making before visiting the magnificent Prambanan Temple, a 9th-century Hindu marvel.
Overnight in Santika Premiere Hotel (or similar)Day 4: Yogyakarta to Bromo by Train (B/ L)
Embark on an exciting Executive train journey through the heartland of Java, traveling from Yogyakarta to Mojokerto. Along the way, take in views of lush forests and countryside before visiting the stunning Madakaripura Waterfall near Mt Bromo (bring water or sport-shoes). Continue to Cemoro Lawang and your mountain lodge near Mount Bromo, where the adventure continues.
Overnight in Santika Premiere Hotel (or similar)Day 5: Yogyakarta to Kalibaru (B/ L)
Rise before dawn for an unforgettable adventure as you witness the sun rise over the Moon-like landscape of Mount Bromo. Travel by 4WD jeep and journey to a breathtaking vantage point where you’ll take in panoramic views of the volcano and its stunning surroundings. As the mist lingers over the grey, ashen terrain, the scene resembles a surreal, moon-like surface. Descend into the caldera by 4WD and either climb the stairs to the crater rim or opt for a horseback ride (at personal expense) to the crater's edge, where you’ll peer into the heart of the still-active volcano. After this exhilarating experience, return by jeep to your hotel for breakfast before heading on to Kalibaru, with a scenic lunch stop along the way.
Overnight in Margo Utomo Hotel (or similar)Day 6: Kalibaru to Banyuwangi (B/ L)
Discover Kalibaru’s coffee, clove, and cacao plantations, learning about the production process of coffee and brown sugar. In the afternoon, continue to Banyuwangi, where you'll spend a relaxing evening.
Overnight in Lintang Luku Tent Hotel (or similar)Day 7: Banyuwangi to Bali (B/ L)
Rise early at 3AM for a trek to the Ijen Crater, known for its stunning turquoise lake and unique sulphur miners. Upon arrival at Paltuding ranger post, it’s about 3 KM or about a 90-minute trek to Ijen crater arriving in time for sunrise over the craters rim. After descending, it’s back to hotel for breakfast and shower before continuing your adventure in Bali. Drive to Ketapang harbor and cross to Bali by ferry, then proceed to Ubud for check-in and some
Please note: For an extraordinary experience, opt for an optional earlier departure at 1am for a chance to see the famous Blue Fire at Mount Ijen (extra cost, paid locally)
Overnight in Kajane Mua Resort (or similar)Day 8: Bali (B/ D)
Relax after your journey from Java or explore the charming streets of Ubud at your leisure. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening at hotel to celebrate your adventure.
Overnight in Kajane Mua Resort (or similar)Day 9: Bali Departure (B)
After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and enjoy a final moment of leisure before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As you depart, carry with you the memories of ancient temples, volcanic landscapes, lush plantations, and serene Bali, a journey that has brought together culture, adventure, and breathtaking beauty. This adventure will stay with you long after you’ve left, inspiring stories to share for years to come.
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Insider Experiences
- Witness sunrise over Mount Bromo’s surreal lunar-like landscapes from a dramatic jeep-accessed viewpoint.
- Explore Borobudur at dawn, where ancient carvings glow in the soft morning light.
- Marvel at the towering spires of Prambanan Temple, Java’s grand Hindu masterpiece.
- Wander Candirejo Village by horse-drawn dokar, meeting locals making cassava crackers and playing gamelan.
- Hike to Madakaripura Waterfall, a hidden jungle gem cascading into a mystical green canyon.
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Accommodation
7 nights in 3-4 star Hotels & Resorts
1 night in 4 star Jungle Tent Resort Ijen -
Meals
Daily breakfast
6 local lunches
1 local dinner
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Transport
Arrival and Departure Transfers
Transport in Air-conditioned Vehicles -
Touring
English speaking tour guide
Entrance fees for locations specified
Tipping for Guide and Driver