Indonesia Java, Bali & Lombok - 22 Days

Welcome to Indonesia's modern metropolis, and capital city, on the coast of Java. There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore.

Enjoy 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, where you'll hear resonating traditional melodies created by shaking bamboo instruments.

Board 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.

Venture 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.

Visit 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.

Continue the journey across the agricultural heartland of Java to Ngadas, a village in the scenic Mt Bromo region. Experience the local culture with a the tour operator-supported community homestay.

Start 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.

Drive 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.

New travellers may join the tour today. You are welcome to join them for an optional welcome dinner in the evening.

Visit the Lake Danu Bratan Temple and take a walk through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces before arriving at the guesthouse in Munduk. Enjoy some delicious Balinese cuisine.

Arrive in Kintamani with its breathtaking views of Lake Batur and the Batur crater. Take a wander through town and mix with the locals, opt to visit the market, and marvel at the variety of local produce for sale.

Opt for a sunrise hike to the top of Mt Batur before travelling to the cultural heart of Bali, stopping for lunch at the the tour operator supported-Bali Community Training Lunch Program. Arrive in Ubud in the late afternoon for an orientation walk and some free time.

Enjoy a free day to explore exactly what interests you in Ubud. Opt to visit the Monkey Forest, numerous temples, rice paddies, and markets. In the evening, opt to take in a traditional Kecak dance performance.

Visit Kerta Gosa, the historic court of justice, before the journey to Candidasa, a superb beach location perfect for relaxing.

New travellers may join today for the Lombok portion of the adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Arrive at the shores of Lombok and head to a traditional Sasak village. Meet the locals and learn more about their unique culture and way of life. Continue on to Kuta for the night.

Enjoy a full day exploring the area around Kuta. Opt for a surf lesson or visit one of the beautiful beaches nearby.

Enjoy a spectacular drive through the middle of Lombok. Stop at the Tetebatu community to enjoy an easy trek led by a local guide. Explore the surrounding plantation to see rice cultivation and, weather permitting, views of Mt. Rinjani. Opt for a buffet lunch in the Tetebatu community before continuing on to visit the slopes of the Rinjani Volcano. Hike to a secluded waterfall and take a dip in the fresh water. Continue on to Senggigi for the night.

Drive to the coast and hop on a speedboat to Gili and settle in for a few days on the islands. The Gilis are paradise incarnate with a tiny population, no cars, and gorgeous white-sand beaches.

Today is free for exploring. Opt to rent a bike and cycle around the island, visit the shopping area, or try some yoga.

Spend the final evening with an optional dinner together, reflecting on the adventure under a beautiful Balinese sunset.

Depart at any time.