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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. Be charmed by Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, witness traditional dance performances and explore ornate temples. Get to the heart of life on this famous archipelago by visiting rice paddies and remote villages and learning about the region’s traditional arts and crafts. And that’s not all – you’ll also join royalty at a palace in Ubud. This very special tour is an adventure like no other!
“Selamat Datang”! Your Guide is there to greet you upon your arrival at the airport and welcomes you in Indonesian. You will then go directly to your hotel in the city of Jakarta, where your trip to Indonesia begins. After dropping off your belongings, relax from your hours of flying at your hotel
Familiarise yourself with the city on a full-day tour with your expert local leader. Take in Sunda Kelapa port – where the Dutch first landed, temple-filled Chinatown and the old town of Batavia. Wander about Fatahillah Square and visit a Chinese mansion (Chandra Naya) and gain an insight into the beautiful Peranakan architecture. Enjoy lunch at a Chinese restaurant that has been serving some of the city’s best and most authentic food for more than a century. Learn the story behind the restaurant and its cuisine during an exclusive storytelling session with the owner. After lunch, explore the religious side of the city at Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque – the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Catch an early morning train to Yogyakarta this morning and drop your bags at the hotel, then travel to Prambanan – an ancient 10th-century Hindu temple on the outskirts of Yogyakarta. This magnificent World Heritage-listed site is the largest Hindu complex in Java. Set in a tranquil park, it is the perfect spot to stroll along the river and take in the sunset. Have your camera ready, as you’re sure to get some incredible shots. This evening, join your group for a performance of the epic Ramayana ballet and dine on delicious regional dishes over dinner.
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 and 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 are many activities for you to choose in Yogyakarta. Perhaps a cooking class to learn about Indonesian cuisine or salute to the sun with a yoga class – there is something for everyone!
Included activities
Sunrise at Borobudur Buddhist Temple
This morning, get up at dawn to watch the sunrise from the top of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Dating from the 8th century, its architecture, the precision of its bas-reliefs, its countless Buddhas and its enormous bells make it a must-see in Indonesia. You then return to the center of Yogyakarta city for your lunch at a local restaurant. Then, you visit the Kraton, the Sultan’s palace and the Taman Sari known as “the water tower”. You enjoy strolling and getting lost in the small surrounding streets, punctuated by numerous artists’ houses and local craft shops. Night at the hotel.
Included activities
This morning, you will take the train towards Mount Bromo. You arrive at Malang station after a 6.5 hour journey and you will be greeted by your driver who will take you to your hotel.
The path to get there is a real spectacle in itself. You will climb to altitude to enjoy a grandiose view of the mountains, the surrounding villages and other sloping plantations.
Yogyakarta – train to Bromo
Your early start today (around 3 am) will be well worth it; trust us. First, 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 the volcano crater to take a peek inside. 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. 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.
Included activities
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.
Included activities
Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beachside location. Maybe start the day with a relaxing yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. You could visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming off the coast, or think about booking in a snorkelling or diving expedition to the turquoise and marine life-rich waters of Menjangan Island. Otherwise, simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their day-to-day on one of the beaches.
Add on activities
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 – a thriving centre of markets, shops and warungs and close by to verdant rice terraces and lush jungles. With nature and wellbeing at its core, Ubud is a highland haven of Bali. It’s a wonderful place to experience the magic that has made Bali such a popular travel destination. Tonight, why not get a group of your travel pals together and find a local place to eat some traditional Balinese cuisine.
Included activities
Start the day with a guided walking tour around Ubud with your local leader (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 Balinese home for coffee and experience the traditional Balinese offering. 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 and enjoy a traditional Kecak dance performance. Driven not by musical instruments, but by human chanting, this fascinating theatrical performance is considered a highlight by many.
Included activities
It’s a very early start today – you’ll have to wake at 4 am to head out to Mt Batur before sunrise. Trust us, it’s worth the early wake-up call. On a clear morning, it’s possible to see all the way across the Lombok Strait to the peaks of Lombok’s Mt Rinjani. Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread with your group while basking in the memorable mountain views. Your adventure continues with a trip to the village of Undisan, where you’ll tour rice fields with an expert local guide. Learn how the Balinese use herbal plants to treat different health conditions and browse homemade jewellery and craft. Then roll up your sleeves for a Balinese cooking class where you’ll learn how to make local specialties and enjoy a tasty lunch. After a day filled with adventure, tonight is yours to settle back, relax and enjoy your beautiful hotel to the fullest.
Included activities
Spend a leisurely last morning at your Feature Stay hotel. Today you will travel to Canggu, with its black sand beaches and verdant rice fields. On the way, visit Taman Ayun Temple – a 17th-century family temple of the Mengwi Empire, once only accessible to the royals. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its marvelous cultural architectural design. After checking into your hotel in Canggu, enjoy some free time 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 beach side restaurants. Get a feel for the traditions and local customs which are well maintained here. Tonight, maybe head out to one of Canggu’s lively bars or restaurant.
Included activities
Today is yours to enjoy Canggu your way. Maybe drop into a local warung (restaurant) for lunch, sign up for a surf lesson, take a trip to Tanah Lot temple or shop ‘til you drop at one of the area’s three markets.
Your trip comes to an end If you would like to spend more time in Canggu, just speak to your booking agent.
Enjoy the great fresh air of the outdoors while experiencing the beauty of nature and cultures in different areas. Feel Non tourist attractions and unique nature, feel the friendliness of Indonesians and explore the varieties of natural beauty of this island.
