Java & Bali Explorer
22 days
From $ 2436
Duration22 days
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Visit Bali and Java on this Indonesian explorer trip. Combining Java’s collection of earthly volcanoes and pre-historic jungles with Bali’s stunning beaches, Java and Bali Explorer is a great way to experience the incredible contrasts and magical scenery of Indonesia. Get to the heart of life on this famous archipelago by visiting rice paddies, tea plantations and remote villages. Be charmed by Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, witness traditional dance performances and visit ornate temples. From the fervent pace of Jakarta to the back alleys of Ubud, the islands of Bali and Java are Indonesia’s most celebrated duo – a treasure trove of beautiful beaches, rolling hills and dynamic cities.

This tour is operated by

  • Duration: 22 days
    Service level: Standard
  • Physical Grading: Average
  • Ages: 15+
Java & Bali Explorer - Tour Map

Itinerary

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Day 1: Jakarta
Selamat datang! Welcome to Indonesia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm today. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.  If you arrive early, check out some of Jakarta's interesting museums, such as the Wayang (puppetry), Balai Seni Rupa (fine arts) and Maritime museums. The National Museum is great for first-time visitors. For city monuments, don't miss Si Jagur, an old Portuguese cannon ornately decorated with sexual imagery, or the Monas (National Monument) dedicated to the spirit of the Indonesian people.
Day 2: Jakarta
Familiarise yourself with the city on a full day tour with your local guide. Take in Sunda Kelapa port, where the Dutch first landed, temple-filled Chinatown and the old town of Batavia. Visit a Chinese mansion (Chandra Naya) and gain an insight into the beautiful Peranakan architecture. Wander about Fatahillah Square, then explore the religious side of the city at Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in South East Asia. Meander through the antique market at Jalan Surabaya.
Meals: B
Day 3: Pangandaran
Today there's some distance to cover, so you will spend most of the day travelling. Travel by train to Purwokerto City (approximately 5.5 hours), then take a private minibus to Pangandaran (approximately 3 hours). Pangandaran is a small fishing village popular with visitors looking for a coastal escape. The Penanjung Nature Reserve on the adjoining peninsula boasts some impressive flora and fauna.
Meals: B
Day 4: Pangandaran
Set off on a tour of the local surrounds, villages, cottage industries and the impressive green canyon. Your day trip begins with a stop at a local market to check out the produce and home industries such as palm sugar and rice cracker production, as well as the famous Javanese 'Wayan Golek' (traditional wooden puppets). Then you'll continue to the Green Canyon. Hop aboard your boat and travel upriver (approximately 30 minutes) through superb jungle scenery, before stopping for a swim up into the canyon itself. This spot, whose water is green as its name suggests, is a popular hangout for locals, so take the opportunity to interact. Your day concludes at a nearby beach where you can take a break for lunch and swim in the afternoon before heading back.
Meals: B
Day 5: Yogyakarta
Head inland by private minibus (approximately 1 hour) before catching a train to Yogyakarta (approximately 4 hours). This town is one of South East Asia's real gems. It's Java's cultural heart, has a great atmosphere and is an Intrepid favourite. From batik workshops to the nearby Hindu and Buddhist temples, 'Yogya' offers a great array of cultural avenues to explore.
Meals: B
Day 6: Yogyakarta
Rise early to catch the morning light and avoid the crowds at Candi Borobudur, the largest Buddhist structure on earth. This magnificent World Heritage site is set in a tranquil park. As you approach, you'll see the enigmatic temple rise before you, looming above the tropical foliage. With your local guide, follow the route of ancient pilgrims, circling the mandala-shaped structure from the early realms towards Nirvana. It's truly one of South East Asia's treasures. Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon of free time. You might like to visit one of Yogya's other heritage temples – this time perhaps of the Hindu variety. Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu complex in Java. This evening perhaps catch a performance of the epic Ramayana Ballet. Your leader will be able to check dates and availability for you.
Meals: B
Day 7: Yogyakarta
Pedal out of the city on a cycling tour (approximately 6 km) through the rice fields and countryside surrounding Yogyakarta. See the locals in this area making various goods, from bricks to tofu to tempe. As well as palms and lush green grasslands, you will see the odd burst of yellow and pink flowers by the side of the road, which make for great photo opportunities. This cycling tour is on relatively flat ground, so it won't be too strenuous. There will be ample time to take in all the interesting scenes of slow-paced local life. You will then have a free afternoon today and there is many activities for you to choose in Yogyakarta. Perhaps a cooking class to learn about Indonesian cuisine or limber up with a yoga class, there is something for everyone.
Meals: B
Day 8: Seloliman Nature Reserve
Travel by train (approximately 4.5 hours) before transferring on a minivan (approximately 1 hour) to Seloliman Nature Reserve. The peaceful Seloliman Nature Reserve is situated on the slopes of the sacred Penanggungan volcano. Meet some of the volunteers working at the Seloliman Environmental Education Centre and eat delicious, locally grown organic produce cooked by their staff. The centre's accommodation is atmospheric, with open-air bathrooms built in harmony with the surrounding forrest, so take this opportunity to relax. This is a beautiful spot to appreciate nature – be sure to sit under the stars tonight and take in the ambience of the mountainous surrounds.
Meals: B, D
Day 9: Seloliman Nature Reserve - Mt Bromo
Join reserve staff on a walk around the reserve, learning about the local environment and the Javanese tradition of herbal medicine (approximately 2.5 hours). You'll gain an insight into local flora and fauna, traditional farming methods, rice production, the mini hydro electricity plant and the local village coffee shop. Finish up with a traditional Jamu demonstration and a tasting of 'Javanese medicine'. Continue on to Mt Bromo, the timeless homeland of the Tenggerese (approximately 4 hours). The still-active Mount Bromo (2,329 m) is the most well known volcano of the Tengger massif. This region is also the homeland of the Tenggerese and the steep, cultivated hills of the Tengger Valley. Our accommodation tonight is in villa’s and each villa has 2 rooms with a lounge room and one shared bathroom between the 2 rooms. Retire early tonight, in preparation for tomorrow's early start.
Meals: B, L
Day 10: Mt Bromo - Kalibaru
Your early start today (around 3am) will be well worth it, trust us. First you'll drive to a lookout point in jeeps for sunrise over the sea of sands. If the weather is clear, the sunrise over this eerie sea of volcanoes is an unforgettable experience. Afterwards descend in your jeep to the sea of sands and climb up to to the volcano crater to take a peek inside (note this can be closed during periods of volcanic activity) The ascent is not too difficult (approximately 45 minutes), but it can be very cold, so don't forget to bring extra layers of clothing. It's also worth bringing a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, as it can get dusty. Note that Mount Bromo is one of the highlights of the trip but it’s very popular, so during holiday periods expect it to be crowded. Return to the hotel to freshen up and then depart midmorning to Kalibaru in a private minivan (approximately 5.5 hours). You'll stop for lunch en route, then arrive in the afternoon, with time to relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a local massage.
Day 11: Kalibaru - Pemuteran
Head out early in the morning to tour nearby coffee, cocoa and rubber plantations. You'll see how rubber is processed, how coffee is dried, and, if there's time, how cocoa is fermented. Before you set off, enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea and snack on fried banana. Travel by minibus to the far eastern end of Java, Gilimanuk (approximately 3 hours). There is often a lot of heavy traffic on this stretch of road as it's the main entry point for Bali, so there may be some delays. Next you'll board a ferry across the Java Strait (approximately 1 hour), before boarding another minibus for a journey along the west coast of Bali (approximately 1 hour). Travel on to Pemuteran, your destination for the next two nights.
Meals: B
Day 12: Pemuteran
Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beach side spot. Maybe start the day with a relaxing yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. Visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming, snorkelling, or simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their work.
Meals: B
Day 13: Ubud
Make the journey to Ubud (approximately 5 hours). En route, stop in at Taman Ayun Temple, taking in the impressive Balinese architecture while you stroll around the tranquil gardens. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre, recently made famous by the Hollywood movie 'Eat Pray Love'. It's a wonderful place to experience the magic that has made Bali such a popular travel destination.
Meals: B
Day 14: Ubud
Enjoy a free day to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of Ubud, before your continuing meeting at 6pm. Perhaps head to one of the most popular landmarks of Ubud – Pura Taman Saraswati. The most notable feature of the pura is its lotus pond and water garden, marking the outer area of the actual temple. Located in central Ubud, it’s an easy walk from your hotel. Ubud is full of boutique shops and cafes serving wonderful organic produce. It is the perfect place to just wonder and stop for a bite to eat watching the hustle and bustle go by without you.
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers. Afterwards, perhaps head out to for a group meal at one of the delicious local restaurants.
Meals: B
Day 15: Ubud
Start the day with a guided walking tour (about 2.5 hours). Gain an insight into daily village life as you pass lush rice fields, an alang alang valley (type of wild grass used to make the roof of traditional buildings) and stop by a traditional Balinese home for coffee. The tour ends in central Ubud, where you'll have time to explore the many cafes, galleries and shops on your own. In the evening sit down to a traditional Kecak dance performance. Driven not by musical instruments, but by human chanting, this fascinating theatrical performance is considered a highlight by many travellers.
Meals: B
Day 16: Ubud - Sidemen
Today you’ll explore the area from a different angle – from the saddle of a bike. Enjoy a 2.5-hour tour through backstreets, quaint villages and rice fields, waving to the locals as you go. It’s a relatively easy ride – much of the route is downhill – and there will be plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or a brief rest. You’ll also stop to check out some small, intricately carved temples, before concluding your bike tour back in Ubud. After refuelling at lunch, head for the hills to the village of Sideman, travelling by private minivan (about 2 hours). Set against a backdrop of Bali's highest peak, Mt Agung, the peaceful village of Sidemen is proof that Bali still has some pockets that are untouched by tourism. Keep in mind, it's a little cooler up here, thanks to the elevation. You may want to pack a sweater.
Meals: B
Day 17: Sidemen - Mt Batur
Take a morning walk (approximately 2.5 hours) around Sidemen, visiting the craftspeople of the local songket weaving industry. A traditional 'bungkus' lunch is included. The walk is a great chance to take in the beautiful scenery. Continuing your journey higher into the mountains, drive along the crater rim road to a fishing village on the edge of Lake Batur (approximately 2 hours). Volcanic Mt Batur (1,717 metres/5,633 feet) sits inside a stark and spectacular caldera; with Lake Batur below, it's a stunning sight. The lake supports the local fishing industry, while many of the villagers work as guides for the volcano climb. Your accommodation at the base of Mt Batur is a basic hotel with a restaurant. This is a great location to start tomorrow's early morning trek without extra travelling time.
Meals: B, L
Day 18: Mt Batur - Lovina
It’s a very early start today – you’ll have to wake at 3 am to begin the 1.5 to 2-hour walk to the summit of Mt Batur in order to reach it before sunrise. Trust us, it’s worth the effort. On a clear morning, it's possible to see all the way across the Lombok Strait to the peaks of Lombok's Mt Rinjani. The view of the gorgeous sunrise over the valleys of Bali may well be the most memorable part of your trip. Do keep in mind, however, that the weather can be unpredictable and sometimes the view is obscured by clouds. After descending the volcano, there's an option to soak in hot springs with fantastic views over the lake and caldera. Then make the journey from the mountains to the small coastal town of Lovina (approximately 3 hours). Lovina is famous for the dolphins that patrol its coast. It's also a great spot for fine food, traditional massages and yoga.
Meals: B
Day 19: Lovina
Enjoy a day of snorkelling amongst Menjangan Island’s coral reef, part of the Bali Barat National Park. We will drive approx. 1.5 – 2 hours (each way) and then take a boat ride of around 20 mins into the National Park at Menjangan. On the way back, you’ll stop for a soak at Banjar Hot Spring, a small spring popular with the locals. Tonight, head to Ibu Wayan's to learn about Balinese cuisine before sitting down to a home-cooked meal.
Meals: B, D
Day 20: Lovina - Bedugul
After breakfast, head to the tiny hilltop village of Munduk (approximately 1 hour) where you’ll walk through aromatic clove and coffee plantations to a spectacular hidden waterfall. Continue inland to the picturesque mountain town of Bedugul (approximately 1 hour). It’s a good idea to pack warm clothing as the early mornings and evenings can be quite cool. Spend the afternoon strolling amongst more than 2000 species of plants indigenous to Indonesia at the Bali Botanical Gardens.
Meals: B
Day 21: Bedugul - Sanur
Start the day with a visit to Lake Bratan for a delightful view of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a Hindu-Buddhist temple set on a small island in the lake. Continue by minivan to Sanur and enjoy some free time there in the afternoon. Perhaps enjoy a stroll along Bali's first beachfront walk, watch the fishermen in the shallows or kick back and relax at one of the beachside restaurants. Get a feel for the traditions and local customs which are well maintained here. Ancient temples are easily accessible – just a short distance away from the beach.
Meals: B
Day 22: Sanur
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast today.
Meals: B

Inclusions

Included

  • Jakarta - City Tour
  • Pangandaran - Green Canyon & local industries tour
  • Yogyakarta - Borobudur Temple complex
  • Yogyakarta - Cycling tour
  • Seloliman - Guided village & rice terrace walk
  • Mt Bromo - Sunrise climb
  • Kalibaru - Coffee, cocoa & rubber plantation tour
  • Mengwi - Taman Ayun Temple
  • Ubud - Campuhan Ridge & Village walk
  • Ubud - Kecak dance performance
  • Ubud - Bayung Gede (Kahyangan) Village to Tampak Siring cycling tour
  • Sidemen - Village tour & traditional lunch
  • Mt Batur - Sunrise volcano climb
  • Lovina - Menjangan Island Reef snorkeling tour
  • Lovina - Banjar Hot Springs
  • Munduk - Waterfall walk
  • Bedugul - Bali Botanical Gardens
  • Bedugul - Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

  • Transport

    Boat, Bicycle, Ferry, Private minibus, Private Van, Train, Taxi

  • Accommodation

    Guesthouse (4 nights), Hotel (16 nights)

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