Visit the Borobudur & the surprisingly scenic Dieng Plateau

One of the seven world wonders the Borobudur & the surprisingly scenic Dieng Plateau

In the morning you will visit the Borobudur temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia that was built in the 9^th century. Overlooking impossibly apple green sawahs, swaying palms and surrounded by eye-catching volcanic peaks, this monumental Buddhist structure has survived Gunung Merapi’s eruptions and many earthquakes. The Borobudur remains as mysterious and as beautiful as it probably also was about 1200 years ago.
One can find three monasteries in the neighborhood of the Borobudur. You are welcome to join the monks at prayer if you like.
If your are ready to continue, the Dieng Plateau is next on your day-trip. This complex of Hindu temples was built in the 7^th century. The five main temples form the Arjuna complex are clustered together on the central Dieng plain, which are connected to eachother by raised walkways. It are Shiva temples that have been named after the heroes of the wayang stories: Arjuna, Puntadewa, Srikandi, Sembadra and Semar. Locals offer, burn incense and meditate here.
Then you continue to visit the Sikidang volcanic crater, one of several craters at the Dieng Plateau that are still active. Kawah Sikidang consists in steaming vents and anxiously bubbling mud ponds. Be careful as the trails are sometimes muddy and slippery. After Sikidang you will visit the Warna lake - Telaga Warna. The lake has turquoise and cobalt colours from the bubbling sulphur deposits around its shores. To find some privacy, follow the trail counterclockwise to the adjoining lake.
When you feel ready, you will go back to your hotel in Yogyakarta.

Accommodation

Ibis Hotel Malioboro

Yogyakarta city tour & Pramabanan temple

Yogyakarta city tour in the morning while the Prambanan temple is scheduled for the afternoon

There are a few cultural must-sees in Yogyakarta. The first one is the Sultan's Palace, also called Kraton, is the cultural and political hearth of Yogyakarta. In fact this is a walled city and home to about 25,000 people of whom 1,000 are employed by the Sultan. The area where the current Sultan still lives was built between 1755 and 1756. This is an examples of Javanese palace architecture. There are daily cultural performances in the kraton’s inner pavilion; starting around 9 or 10 am, varying from gamelan to Javanese poetry readings.
The second must-see is the water castle - Taman Sari - which is another historical relic to be found just southwest of the kraton. It once served the sultan and his entourage. The water castle was built between 1758 and 1765, and lasted only for 100 years due to war and earthquakes. The bathing pools have been restored.
Then the journey continues to the Prambanan temple, just outside Yogyakarta and listed in 1991 on the Unesco World Heritage List. The impressive Hindu temples of Prambanan are set in the plains and the best remaining examples of Java’s extended period of Hindu culture. The temples were built between the 8th and 10th century.
Probably it is getting evening when you are heading back to your hotel. Enjoy your time.

Accommodation

Ibis Hotel Malioboro

Free day in Yogyakarta

Free day in Yogyakarta

Make the most of your day off in the cultural and political hearth of Java.

Accommodation

Ibis Hotel Malioboro

By executive train to Malang

By executive train to Malang

Have an early breakfast at your hotel as your train departs at 07.30. You can take a becak to the train station which is nearby. The Malioboro Express will arrive after about 8 hours in Malang. You will be waited for at the train station and brought to your hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel Ibis Malang - Ibis Malang is situated on the main road between Malang and Surabaya which makes access to the city center both easy and adventurous. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and WiFi. A swimming pool is also available.

Malang, the refreshing city with character

Malang, the refreshing city with character

A day of choices. You can discover the city on foot or by bike with a guide, you can take a guided cycling tour to Tumpang village, or cook your lunch during a cooking class in the kampong. Or, just have the day to yourself and discover on your own or just relax in your hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel Ibis Malang

The breathtaking volcanic Bromo region is your today's destination

The breathtaking volcanic Bromo region is your today's destination

At 01.00 in the morning you will be picked up. It is a three hours drive to Mt. Pananjakan, from which viewpoint you can first meat with the breathtaking volcanic Bromo region. The moonlike landscape in full glory is welcoming you when the sun is rising. Mt. Semeru - Java's highest peak - throws its shadows over the scene, while erupting every 20 minutes.
If Bromo's condition allows you too, you can walk to the crater rim of this active volcano, after you crossed the black volcanic Sea of Sand. Mt. Bromo is flanked by Mt. Kursi (2581 m) and Mt. Batok (2440 m), both higher than Mt. Bromo (2392 m). All three volcanoes have emerged in an old crater which stretches 10 km across, surrounded by the towering cliffs of the crater's edge.
Then, when you meet your driver again, he will bring you to hotel Cafe Lava where you can have your breakfast. After you revived a bit, your journey continues in the direction if Mt. Ijen. Your route guides you via the winding and hilly road over Mt. Arek-Arek before you reach Bondowoso.

Accommodation

Bondowoso - Ijen View Hotel.As your stay in Bondowoso is short, you might enjoy your rest, but a swimming pool is also available.

The largest blue fire area in the world: Ijen crater lake - Pemuteran

The largest blue fire area in the world: Ijen crater lake

Early morning departure! At around midnight you will depart to see the phenomenal blue fire at the Ijen crater lake. But, keep in mind that the possibility to see it is depending on local weather conditions. If local weather conditions don't allow you too, or if you do not wish to see the blue fire, you can leave later. Then discuss your departure time with your driver.
After arriving in Paltuding it is a one and a half hours hike to the greatest acidic lake in the world. You will meet the heroic sulphur miners which have probably one of the heaviest tasks in the world. The miners carry baskets between 80 and 100 kg filled with vast sulphur up the crater rim and then down the mountain slopes to the sulphur weighing area behind the parking lot where you parked your car. 
Once you are back at the car, your next destination is Pemuteran in Bali. You will take the ferry in Ketapang.

Note: the blue fire tour is only for those in good physical condition as it is a serious undertaking which can only be seen when it is still dark.

Accommodation

Pemuteran (Bali) - Kubuku Ecolodge & Resto.Kubuku means 'little home', complete with spa, meditation and yoga.... welcome.

Snorkeling neaar Menjangan island & snooze at the beach getaway Pemuteran - Ubud

Snorkeling near Menjangan island & snooze at the beach getaway Pemuteran

Menjangan can be found within the protected area of West Bali National Park. Menjangan is famous for its calm and clear waters, while the bountiful sea life is just an aquarium but then 10 times better. Beautiful coral formations, clownfish-filled anemones, dazzling coral walls and drop-offs, and caves and nooks to hide in. You might even be lucky to see whale sharks, mantas and turtles. The water temperature is lovely with a 29 ºC, and the current is none to mild.
After snorkeling you will be heading to Ubud, the cultural center of Bali. It also has good restaurants and cafes and many street shops filled with the work of local artists.

Accommodation

Ubud - Adi Cottage.As they call it "A peaceful retreat' in the hearth of Ubud. With only 19 rooms that are cocooned within a tropical garden.

Dance, volcanoes and art -  Ubud

Dance, volcanoes & art

Dances are merged with stories and history. The "Barong and Kris Dance" is one of Bali's iconic dances. There are two main characters, namely Barong, which is a lion-like spirit that protects the land and its people, and Rangda, who is a demon queen. A kris is an asymmetrical dagger and deeply rooted into Indonesian culture. The Baron and Kris Dance shows many men waving the kris. The close ties to the mythological traditions of Bali makes this performance interesting.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a Nature Reserve & Hindu temple complex. The Monkey Forest lies within the village of Padangtegal, which owns it. To the villagers the Monkey Forest is as an important spiritual, economic, educational, and conservation center. The Forest covers approximately 10 hectares and contains at least 115 different species of trees and is home to three Hindu temples, that were constructed around 1350. About 600 Balinese long-tailed monkeys live in the forest.
You will also visit the central palace Puri Saren Agung. It was the home of the last "king" of Ubud, and now his descendants live in the palace. It was also Ubud's first hotel, opening its doors to paying visitors in the 1930s.
Another artistic spot to visit is Batuan village, which one can find about 10 km south of Ubud. Batuan village is well-known for its style of painting that originated in the village in the 1930s. This style has emerged into a major Balinese artistic style, known as a Batuan painting. The village also contains art galleries and cooperative art societies. Every full moon the ancient Gambuh dance is performed.
Sri Batu village is a village where one can see how several spices, coffee, cacao, clove, vanilla, cinnamon, and passion fruit are grown. Once can also sample Bali chocolate. Probably you are getting hungry somewhere along this trip. A stopover to have lunch with the volcano Kintamani and Batur Lake as your view, must be brilliant.
Next. Gunung Kawi Sebatu is a Hindu water temple dedicated to Vishnu. The temple complex is built on a natural spring, which feed a series of ponds and pools. Then you still have Tegallalang and Gajah cave on the list for today. Tegallalang is the area north of Ubud and full with beautiful rice fields, those jaw-dropping ones. Take a hike. Goa Gajah - or elephant cave - is your last part of the day, if you still have some energy left. This temple takes you back to the 11th century, if you can imagine it without the parking area and the various souvenir shops and refreshments kiosks.

Accommodation

Ubud - Adi Cottage.

Culture and beach - Sanur

Culture and beach

After breakfast, check all your belongings and get them in your bag. You are moving to another hotel for the last time during this trip.
Your day will start with a visit to one of Bali's most beautiful temples. Taman Ayun is a remnent from the Royal Mengwi Dynasty and a landmark in the village of Mengwi. One can see glorious traditional architectural features throughout the temple's courtyards and enclosures Taman Ayun was built in 1634 and underwent a significant restoration in 1937.
You will continue to Tanah Lot, which is a rock formation off the island of Bali. It is home to the pilgrimage temple Tanah Lot. The temple is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast. Each of the sea temples was established within eyesight of the next to form a chain along the south-western coast.
To be able to join the afternoon sun and some rest, you can check in at your hotel in the beach village Sanur early afternoon. Enjoy the beach.

Accommodation

Sanur - Peneeda View - Beach Hotel. Sanur's beach stretches over 5 km. It is a white sandy beach with calm blue water, while a small path connects north and south of Sanur.

Relaxed morning

Relaxed morning

Enjoy a relaxed morning as the only thing you will have to do is to get ready for what you are up to next. We can transfer you to the airport in Denpasar.

Yogyakarta holiday

Yogyakarta holiday

As it is your break, decide if you would like to do something. If the answer is yes, we will assist you with one of the tours mentioned under the heading Optional Tours. You can discuss with your guide, if you would like to do something that isn't on the list.

Holiday still going strong!

Holiday still going strong!

Another day in Yogyakarta with many choices to make - if you wish. You can also just relax and do as you wish.....

By Executive Train to Malang

By Executive Train to Malang

A train ride is quite something else compared to transport over the road. As the views from the road are blocked by ribbon development, the views from the train can be marvelous as you pass villages and almost ever green sparkling rice fields. The train departs at 8 o'clock in the morning and you will arrive around 4 o'clock in Malang. You will be picked up at the train station and brought to your hotel.
 

Accommodation

Malang, the refreshing city in the hills

Malang, the refreshing city in the hills

An outspoken European atmosphere, situated at an altitude of 444 meters sandwiched by mountains and volcanoes. That is Malang. The city was beloved by the Dutch in the colonial era, as it is today by tourists, both local and foreign. In modern Malang you still find a lot of Javanese, Dutch, and Chinese architecture. Malang is still one of a kind, with a wonderful personality and identity, turning the city into an attractive place to explore.

Optional tours: Tea plantation Wonosari, Sempu island, cooking class or a temple tour

Optional tours: Tea plantation Wonosari, Sempu island, cooking class or a temple tour

Malang and its surroundings have a lot to offer, that makes it more than just a transit to Mt. Bromo. South of Malang you will find unexplored white sandy beaches, while Batu offers modern outings such as the zoo, many kinds of museum and swimming pools. You can also dig further in Java's ancient history and visit temples. Or, a local cook will teach you the inside outs of traditional Javanese dishes in her house in the kampong... Please note that today is a free day in your program. You can choose one of the optional tours if you wish.

Botanical Garden Purwodadi - Madakaripura Waterfalls - Cemara Lawang village

Botanical Garden Purwodadi - Madakaripura Waterfalls - Cemara Lawang village

Walking through the ornamental entrance gates of the Botanical Garden a long avenue stretches away from you as far as the eye can see with Mt. Baung just visible in the far distance. Enormously tall Jacaranda and Golden Shower trees line the central path that divides the gardens into two halves. Just to mention some items: an area of palms, the amazing giant arum; one of the largest flowers in the world, two meters in height and 40 centimeters across, and five pretty ponds, a series of glasshouses features 525 species of orchids.
The enchanting Madakaripura Waterfalls are of importance to the local Hindus, who are the ancestors of some famous kings of the kingdoms once reigning in Java. You will find these waterfalls at the end of a dazzling green valley.
Then, when you are in time, one can see a beautiful sunset just from the ancient crater edge.... Situated at an altitude of 2300 m it can get cold in the evening. Average day temperatures are about 20 ºC.

But, if you would like to do none of the above, or would like do an optional tour, we can drive you directly to Cemara Lawang village at any time that suits you.
 

Accommodation

Sunrise Mt. Bromo - next destination is  Mt. Ijen

Sunrise Mt. Bromo - next destination is  Mt. Ijen

Early morning today... you have something on your program!? An exciting sunrise over an outer space landscape that is incomparable with other stunning parts of the world. You can either see the sunrise from the famous viewpoint at Mt. Pananjakan or from any other spot, such as King Kong Hill or Mt. Seruni. The choice depends on the mode of transport you prefer; either walking or by Jeep.
After the sun has risen and you feel warm again, you will descend to the black Sea of Sand which you will have to cross to reach the crater rim of the active volcano Bromo. Walking up the carter, you already get an impression of the tremendous lunar-like surroundings in which you are standing.
Once back at the Jeep, you will be heading back to your hotel to have breakfast as you might feel hungry. After you have packed your bags, your journey continuous in the direction of Mt. Ijen.
 

Accommodation

Ijen Blue Fire, Ijen carter lake and the famous miners

Ijen Blue Fire, Ijen carter lake and the famous miners

Ijen Blue Fire is the largest blue flame area in the world. This blue glow which is unusual for a volcano isn't lava, as often thought. The glow is the light from the combustion of sulphuric gases. The gases emerge from cracks in the volcano at high pressure and temperature. When they come in contact with the air, they ignite, sending flames up to 5 meters high. Interested? Then you will have to wake up early. Please note that this tour only suits those in a healthy and good condition.
If you don't feel like waking up early, it will be less early before you depart but not that late as the advice is to descend before noon. Besides you still have to travel to Sukamade as well. The Ijen crater lake in its colorful glory is something words can't describe. It contrasts beautifully with its surroundings. Take your time to memorize your views before descending to Paltuding. Meet the sulphur miners, make some small talk, offer them a cigarette, buy some souvenirs and feel at home.
Once back at the parking area, you can visit the sulphur weighing station where the miners get paid. You will find it just behind the parking area.
After a small coffee break with a local snack, you will continue to Sukamade. In Jajag you will change cars to a four wheel drive Trooper or Jeep. You will pass extensive plantations, drive along the coast and Merah and Hijau islands before arriving in Sukamade turtle beach in Meru Betiri National Park. As there is only one option to spend the night, namely the Ranger's Lodge, you won't have a choice. Around 7 in the evening a ranger will pick you up and guide you to the beach to meet with egg-laying turtles. The possibility that you will meet the turtles is not 100%, but something close. Watching these giant creatures emerge from the surf and struggle-up the beach to lay their eggs on a moonlit night is an incomparable experience.

Accommodation

Release baby turtles and get to the beach in Bali

Release baby turtles and get to the beach in Bali

Sukamade beach is a natural, quiet, beautiful place and part of the 50,000 hectare Meru Betiri National Park. The eggs are taken by the rangers to protect them from predators, both human and other animals. These are incubated in the safety of the park hatchery and the youngsters are released to the ocean on the very beach from where the eggs were laid. The stability of the turtle population has been helped by a careful system of tagging and monitoring, as well as the use of the special hatcheries. You will release the baby turtles early morning.
After you are set and done, you will be driven to Ketapang harbour to take the ferry to Bali. In Gilimanuk you will be picked up and head strait to Pemuteran in the province of West Bali.

Snorkeling in one of the most beautiful spots of Bali

Snorkeling in one of the most beautiful spots of Bali

Just off the northwest coast of Bali lies the little island Menjangan surrounded by hectares of marvelous coral reef. The island is situated in West Bali National Park. The diverse eco biology is its main attraction. Many visitors rate snorkeling in this area as the best snorkeling spot in Bali. Awesome to get a day out in this marine park.

 

Accommodation

Time to say goodbye

Time to say goodbye

Your trip has come to an end... after check out time we will drop you off anywhere on Bali.