Java & Bali Explorer

Welcome to Yogyakarta, Java's cultural capital and the antithesis of business-oriented Jakarta. Known for its arts, Yogyakarta is a bustling city with a great vibe and plenty of galleries, concerts and more. One of our transfer representatives will collect you from the airport and take you to your hotel. Meet your group at 6pm then join them for an included group dinner.

From two feet to two wheels, saddle up for a bike ride in the surrounding countryside this morning. The thing with Yogyakarta is, one minute you'll be enveloped in the city, the next you'll be cruising around flat rural roads with picture-perfect rice paddies and lush tropical scenery. Learn about the biggest local industry, rice production, and interact with the rural communities as they go about their version of the 9-5. Later this afternoon, head to Prambanan, the largest temple complex in Indonesia dedicated to Shiva. Watch the sun set over the pointed towers of this UNESCO-listed site built in the 10th century. With over 500 temples, the temple compound represents, according to UNESCO, not only an architectural and cultural treasure, but also a standing proof of past religious peaceful cohabitation. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner at an open-air restaurant facing Prambanan Temple followed by a performance of Ramayana ballet at an open-air theatre.

Visit Borobudur, the largest Buddhist structure on earth. This magnificent World Heritage site is set in a tranquil park and as you approach, you'll see the enigmatic temple rise before you, looming above the tropical foliage. Follow the route of ancient pilgrims, circling the mandala-shaped structure from the early realms towards Nirvana. It's truly one of South East Asia's treasures. Afterwards, enjoy a free afternoon and evening in Yogyakarta.

Today the group will transfer to Malang, the second-largest city in East Java. Take the train from Yogyakarta to Jombang, then drive on to Malang. Once known as the 'Paris of Southeast Asia', Malang is a popular tourist destination and was previously under Dutch control, who were fond of it because of its cool highland climate. Visit the famous art museum at the Tugu Hotel where we will stay tonight, featuring a large collection of Indonesian pieces collected over the years from across the region.

Take a day trip to explore the countryside surrounding Malang. Stop off and learn about some local cottage industries, visiting an apple and guava orchard and see how rice crackers are made. Then, visit the Singosari Temple, a 13th-century Buddhist-Hindu temple built for the last Singosari king, and the stunning Coban Rondo Waterfall before heading to Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan, known as the colourful village. Though it may not necessarily look like a slum, this village was once one of the most run down in Indonesia. A group of university students combined with a paint company to paint the town a variety of bright colours and educate the community about sanitation and waste, and the result is this popular, quirky tourist destination filled with colour and street art that brings tourists and, more importantly, extra income to the local community.

Depart Malang and transfer to the Bromo area, a journey of approximately four hours by private vehicle. Enjoy some free time on arrival at the Jiwa Jawa Hotel, visiting the resort's art gallery, relaxing in the gardens or simply taking in the lush surroundings. Be sure to bring some warm clothes too as it does get cold in this region, especially during tomorrow's early start.

Depart early (3 am) for a morning that won't be forgotten anytime soon.The early start is well worth it to visit Mt Bromo for sunrise. If the weather is clear, the sunrise over this eerie sea of volcanoes in the morning mist is a truly remarkable experience. The ascent is not too difficult, 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. Look over the giant crater's edge then return to the hotel for breakfast afterwards then drive to Surabaya, a port town north of Bromo. The evening is free to catch up on some sleep or explore Surabaya in search of a fresh seafood feast.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Bali, Indonesia's most famous island. Transfer 1.5 hours to Ubud, arriving late in the afternoon and make the most of a free evening. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre, recently made famous by the Hollywood movie 'Eat Pray Love'. It's a wonderful place to experience the magic that has made Bali such a popular travel destination.

Prepare for a full day sightseeing around Ubud. Visit Tirta Empul, a temple famous for its holy spring water where Balinese Hindus go for ritual purification, and Gunang Kawi, an 11th-century temple complex centred around royal tombs carved into the cliffs. Continue to the Blanco Museum and the rice fields just outside of Ubud, where you will stop at an organic restaurant with food and views to die for, then on to Pura Taman Saraswati (the Lotus Temple) before finishing the day with an evening kecak dance performance. 

Depart Ubud for Seminyak, visiting the Taman Ayun Temple on the way. The journey takes approximately two hours and the rest of the afternoon is free for you to enjoy this popular beach destination. Explore the restaurants and cafes at your own pace, hunt down some of the designer shops and galleries or just mellow out on the beach before your trip comes to an end tomorrow. A final dinner is included tonight to say farewell to your group and leader.

Your trip ends today after breakfast. There are no activities planned and you are free to depart at any time.