With a population of 135 million crammed into just under 140,000 sq km, you’d think there’d be no room on Java left for adventuring. As densely populated as it is, this amazing stretch of Indonesia has loads of unexplored corners just waiting for travellers looking for something a little different. From Jakarta, you’ll venture to the curiously European-like city of Bandung (the “Paris of Java”) en route to Yogyakarta, home to the island’s monstrous volcanoes. Then wrap it all up on the gorgeous Balinese beaches of Sanur. (Hey, if you can’t beat the crowd, join it!)
Day 1: JakartaArrive at any time.
Day 2: Jakarta/BandungEnjoy a guided city tour of Jakarta visiting the former Batavia area, remnants of the colonial past, and stroll through the Sunda Kelapa Harbour. In the afternoon, depart for Bandung surrounded by volcanic peaks and tea plantations. Opt to see the angklung orchestra - resonating traditional melodies created by children shaking bamboo instruments.
Day 3: Bandung/YogyakartaBoard a morning train and take in the beautiful scenery on the ride to Yogyakarta, steeped in ancient ruins and culture. On arrival, opt to go on a cycling tour or take in a Ramayana dance performance.
Day 4: YogyakartaVenture to the Prambanan Hindu temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through the remains of some 244 temples, with some towering out of the rubble. Spend the afternoon at leisure.
Day 5: YogyakartaVisit Borobudur, the largest Buddhist sanctuary in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend time exploring the pyramid-like complex, admiring the intricate carvings, and come away with a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture here. Later, enjoy free time to continue exploring Yogyakarta.
Day 6: Yogyakarta/NgadasContinue the journey across the agricultural heartland of Java to Ngadas, a village in the scenic Mt Bromo region. Experience the local culture with a G Adventures-supported community homestay.
Day 7: Ngadas/MalangStart early today (approximately 2:30am) for a pre-dawn trek across the “sea of sand” to Mt Bromo. Watch the sunrise over the crater’s rim, popular with both tourists and the local Buddhist Tenggerese, who can be seen giving offerings to receive blessings from the Supreme God Hyang Widi Wasa. Head back to Ngadas for lunch before exploring more of the village on an included walk. Later, travel to Malang for the night.
Day 8: Malang/SanurDrive from Malang to Surabaya airport for a short flight to Sanur, a serene seaside town on the island of Bali. Spend the afternoon on the beach, and cheers to a beautiful sunset.
Day 9: SanurDepart at any time.
