Selamat, and welcome to Indonesia!
The captivating culture and natural beauty of Java awaits as you arrive at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) and are met by your driver and tour guide. Transfer to your elegant hotel in Borobodur, set amid picturesque rice terraces and the stunning Menoreh Hills.
After check-in, relax and enjoy a cocktail or afternoon tea (both are included daily at each stay throughout your tour) surrounded by lush palm trees and the island’s unspoilt nature. At 6pm, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and your introduction to fragrant Javanese cuisine.
Today, set out to discover some of Java’s most captivating sights, right on your doorstep. The colossal UNESCO World Heritage-listed Borobudur Temple Compounds were built by hand from thousands of volcanic and river stone blocks during the 8th and 9th centuries. Look up to see more than 400 Buddha statues gracing the complex’s tiered heights, gazing out over the surrounding rice fields and distant mountains. Take time to explore the many temples and unravel their mysterious histories.
In the afternoon, visit a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Indonesian lunch before returning to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps alongside the pool or simply basking in the verdant scenery.
Enjoy a day of complete freedom today. You may choose to take the optional charter into town (surcharges apply) and explore Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s capital nestled in the heart of Java. Take a walk through its streets, where skilled artisans keep age-old traditions of wood carving, silver filigree and puppet making alive, providing insight into the artisanal mastery of the region.
Perhaps visit the impressive Sultan’s Palace, try your hand at bargaining with the locals on Malioboro Street or delight your palate with local street food and traditional Gudeg – a flavourful stew made with youhg jackfruit, coconut milk, palm sugar and spice. Spend the evening exploring the bustling night market, where you can shop for souvenirs, local fabrics and handicrafts while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and cool night air.
Wake up early to transfer to Yogyakarta’s rail station and catch a train to East Java, enjoy scenic views from the windows of your air-conditioned executive class coach along the way. Upon arrival in Jombang, transfer to your hotel near Mount Bromo (approximately three hours), driving through the mist and in the shadow of Bromo Tengger National Park’s volcanic peaks.
Upon arrival in the late afternoon, unwind with your daily cocktail and afternoon tea, taking in the views atop your alpine perch – you’re in the perfect setting to let nature’s tranquility wash over you.
Travel time: Railway – approx. four hours / Driving – four hours
After a restful sleep, embark on a Jeep drive to Mount Bromo for a very special sunrise. While the skies are still dark, head out to Mount Penanjakan viewpoint where you can sit back and relax as the sun breaks the horizon to reveal Java’s most awe-inspiring landscape. Marvel at the incredible view of Mount Bromo up close and Mount Semeru smoking in the distance and the sun lights up the sky. Watch as the Pura Luhur Poten Hindu temple comes into sight, perched on the sand plains below you. This sacred complex, with its striking red doors, holds significance as the venue for the annual Yadnya Kasada ceremony, when the local Tenggerese peopls give thanks to their gods.
Let the adrenaline wash over you as you stand on the edge of Mount Bromo’s active crater, the primordial volcanic landscape stretching out around you. Here, sit down to enjoy a packed breakfast before continuing on to the verdant rolling hills of the Bromo Savannah and the taupe and black-hued dunes of the Whispering Sands before returning to your hotel before lunch.
Dinner with the group at the hotel is included this evening.
After an unforgettable stay in Bromo Tengger National Park, drive north two hours to Surabaya where you’ll catch your flight to Bali.
Upon arrival in Denpasar Airport, meet your local guide and head to your hotel in Ubud. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure as you take in your new surroundings of terraced rice paddies and tropical palms in the heart of the ‘Island of the Gods’.
Travel time: Driving – three hours / Flight – approx. one hour
Start your day with the option to join an invigorating yoga class at the hotel, followed by a refreshing breakfast overlooking the island’s inner hills.
Afterward, embark on a gastronomic adventure with a local chef, who’ll teach you how to master the art of preparing Bali’s most beloved dishes. Start this cooking class with a short ride to Ubud’s bustling market and immerse yourself in its lively atmosphere. Back at the hotel, discover the techniques and secrets behind preparing authentic Indonesian food. Finally, indulge in the delightful flavours you’ve created over lunch, while enjoying the picturesque views from the hotel’s kitchen and restaurant.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you like.
Take in all that Ubud has to offer with a free day to explore at your leisure. Wander through the city’s vibrant streets, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and traditional markets, or simply lose time in nature – a stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk or a rice field walk are both recommended. You might also choose to chase Ubud’s iconic waterfalls, admire local temples and traditional Balinese architecture or venture further afield on a motorbike – you’re spoilt for choice in this tropical haven.
After breakfast, transfer to the beachside paradise of Canggu. Beloved by foodies, yogis, surfers and sunset seekers, Canggu offers a laidback atmosphere with a blend of surf culture, wellness retreats, and vibrant nightlife.
Spend your day lounging on one of the town’s sandy beaches or at its many renowned beach clubs. Visit the sacred site of Pura Tanah Lot, where locals come to worship the Bali Sea gods, or visit the local rice fields if you didn’t get your fill in Ubud. Be sure to indulge in the exquisite local food scene where you’ll discover a neverending choice of cafes, restaurants and bars serving up both international and Balinese cuisine that’s sure to make your mouth water, then end your night with a picture-perfect sunset by the beach.
Travel time: Driving – 1.5 hours
Wake up this morning to a favourite Balinese experience: floating breakfast in your own private pool. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please.
Feeling energised, you may now choose to dive into Canggu’s wellness scene with yoga classes, meditation sessions and holistic treatments, or opt for something more thrilling as you explore the local surf scene. With some of the best waves in the world and a choice of breaks suitable for all levels, beginners and experienced surfers alike rate Canggu as one of the best beaches. Alternatively, discover a vibrant arts scene with visits to galleries and workshops showcasing local artwork, traditional crafts and contemporary creations, or tour local markets for unique souvenirs, clothing and accessories.
Make the most of your last full day in Canggu and unwind with a relaxing hour-long massage at your hotel, scheduled at your convenience. Extend the experience and spend some time in the onsite spa, or choose to soak up the Balinese sun by the shimmering pool.
Use your last day in Canggu to explore further afield, but be sure to return to the hotel in time for your included farewell dinner.
Say goodbye to paradise and your fellow travellers before transferring to Ngurah Rai Denpasar International Airport (DPS) for your onward journey.
