From Java to Bali: An Epic Journey Between Ancient Heritage, Majestic Volcanoes, and Authentic Culture

Welcome to Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of the island of Java and a gateway to a journey through traditions, nature, and spirituality. Upon arrival at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), your driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name for a private transfer to your hotel. Tucked away in an authentic and peaceful setting, your accommodation provides an ideal atmosphere to unwind after your flight. Settle in and enjoy the Javanese charm, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and traditional architecture. - Private transfer - Accommodation in a standard hotel with Javanese charm

After your first night in Java, enjoy your free morning to relax at your hotel or explore the area at your own pace. In the afternoon, set out to discover Yogya, a city where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously. With your guide, hop on a becak, the famous Javanese tricycle, for an authentic ride through lively streets. This traditional mode of transport lets you experience the city differently, absorbing its unique atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a culinary experience by exploring street food markets. Taste specialties such as gudeg (jackfruit stew), grilled satays, and sweet martabak, while enjoying the friendly ambiance of the night stalls. - Meals included: Breakfast + Dinner

Today, dive into the history and culture of Yogyakarta. In the morning, explore the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton), the heart of Javanese culture, and discover local traditional art. Then, head to Taman Sari, the Sultan’s bathhouses—an ancient complex where you’ll learn about the history of the royal grounds and its lush gardens. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent temple of Prambanan, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a remarkable Hindu complex known for its sculptures and impressive architecture. - Meals included: Breakfast Option to enrich your itinerary: - Dinner show around Ramayana dance: A cultural performance where Hindu mythology comes to life through traditional Javanese dance.

Start your day with a must-see discovery: the magnificent temple of Borobudur, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although climbing the temple is not permitted for heritage protection reasons, you’ll be able to explore the outer grounds of this impressive Buddhist monument and learn more about its fascinating history. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with visits to the Mendut and Pawon temples, both steeped in history and offering a complementary perspective to Borobudur. Then, head out for a bike ride through a traditional Javanese village, where you’ll discover local customs while meeting the people who carry on their ancestors’ traditions. - Meals included: Breakfast + Lunch

In the morning, enjoy an environmentally respectful experience by taking the train to Surabaya, a major metropolis in Central Java. This 4-hour journey lets you enjoy spectacular scenery while reducing your carbon footprint. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your driver, an expert in the region, who will take you to a simple but welcoming mountain lodge located on the edge of the Mount Bromo caldera. - Transfers today by train and car - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Mountain lodge with great views (simple & authentic comfort)

Early morning departure by jeep to access the Mount Bromo caldera. Far from the crowds heading for the popular ridgelines for sunrise, you’ll experience a more intimate outing by avoiding traffic jams while reducing your carbon footprint. You’ll reach the Mount Bromo barrier and set off on a walk of about 1.5 miles across the volcanic sand desert to the foot of the mountain. After climbing 250 steps, you’ll arrive at the crater—a truly unique experience. Soak in the beauty and tranquility before descending again to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, continue with a train ride to Banyuwangi. - Transfer by train and car - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Hotel by the seaside

This morning, set out for a gentle walk in the heart of the local nature. You’ll pass through the forest and discover various tropical fruits before heading near the farmers’ houses. Along the way, you’ll come across animals like dogs, chickens, cows, and goats, while interacting with locals who will greet you warmly. You’ll follow a river before reaching the rice fields, a living spectacle where you can observe birds and learn more about traditional Javanese harvesting techniques. In the afternoon, enjoy some downtime at your seaside hotel before getting ready for your next nighttime adventure to the summit of Mount Ijen. - Meals included: Breakfast

Start your adventure at 3:00 AM, heading to the summit of Mount Ijen. Under a starry sky, follow your local guide, lit only by the light of your headlamp. Once you reach the summit, an exceptional landscape awaits you: a lake with deep turquoise-blue waters, surrounded by smoke. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness the incredible work of the sulfur porters—their strength and determination inspire admiration and respect. After this intense experience, return to your hotel for breakfast. In the late morning, head to Ketapang Port to board the public ferry to Bali, the Island of the Gods. - Transfer today by car & ferry - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Authentic Balinese hotel

Enjoy a free day around Bali Barat National Park, a true haven where you can recharge after your Java journey and start soaking up Balinese culture. The village of Pemuteran will welcome you with serenity, while the national park reveals its wonders, both on land and underwater. - Meals included: Breakfast Option to enrich your day: - Explore the surroundings - Snorkeling in the heart of the national park to discover exceptional marine life - Canoe ride through the mangroves, a fascinating natural setting - Morning fishing with local fishermen

Today, you’ll meet your Balinese driver to head to the lake region. On the way, you can stop at Pulaki Temple, guarded by thousands of monkeys. You can also take a refreshing break in Banjar, known for its Buddhist monastery and hot springs with well-being benefits. Next, dive into the authenticity of Munduk, a village away from the hustle and bustle of tourist activity. For nature lovers, the nearby waterfalls, nestled in the heart of the forest, offer a refreshing escape. - Private driver available (+/- 10h/day) - Suggested visits: Pulaki Temple, Banjar, Waterfalls (optional – donations to be paid on-site) - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Standard hotel – Authentic - Additional information: Because Bali is known for its thousands of temples, you’ll enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle that can be adapted thanks to your private driver. Temple visits are suggested, allowing you to choose the ones you’re interested in and adjust the itinerary according to your preferences.

This morning, head to Lake Tamblingan and meet your local guide. Enjoy a bucolic walk in the heart of the tropical forest, followed by a truly authentic journey with a canoe ride across the lake, guided by local fishermen. Then, continue your trip toward Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. On the way, you can take a break to marvel at the terraced rice fields, a true natural masterpiece to explore. Once in Ubud, be charmed by its lovely, typical alleyways, ideal for an evening stroll. - Suggested visits: Rice terraces (optional – donations to be paid on-site) - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Standard hotel – Balinese Vintage

This morning, head toward the principality of Tabanan for an authentic immersion in Balinese culture. Upon arrival, locals will welcome you warmly and introduce you to a variety of traditions, from Balinese Sanskrit to making offerings. Next, enjoy a picturesque stroll through plantations and rice fields. Savor a traditional Balinese lunch, offering a taste of the island’s culinary richness. Afterward, you’ll have the freedom to relax or ask your driver to discover the hidden treasures of Taman Mumbul and the Sangeh Monkey Forest, a mystical and calming place. - Suggested visits: Taman Mumbul, Sangeh Monkey Forest (optional – donations to be paid on-site) - Meals included: Breakfast + lunch

Your driver will be at your disposal for a day of exploration. We recommend visiting the spiritual village of Tampaksiring, where you’ll discover the royal tombs of Gunung Kawi and the sacred springs of Sebatu, a place of serenity and spirituality. Next, you can go to the village of Ceking, famous for its terraced rice fields and handicraft shops. In the afternoon, you can choose to stay in the village to enjoy the area, or, if you prefer, relax at the hotel or stroll through Ubud’s shopping lanes. - Suggested visits: Gunung Kawi, Sebatu Springs - Meals included: Breakfast

Today, head to the authentic village of Sidemen, located at the foot of the majestic Mount Agung. You’ll have the opportunity to choose between several water activities depending on your adrenaline level: rafting for thrill-seekers, tubing for a calmer experience, or even a walking tour through the rice fields for a peaceful immersion in Balinese nature. After one of these adventures, enjoy a local lunch before joining a jeweler's workshop. Take part in a workshop creating silver jewelry—an ideal activity to take home a souvenir from this beautiful journey at the heart of the Island of the Gods. - Meals included: Breakfast & lunch - Accommodation: Hotel surrounded by rice paddies

This morning, set out to discover Bali’s authentic flavors with a cooking class in the heart of our partner’s kitchen garden, offering an immersion into the Balinese lifestyle. Accompanied by your chef, you’ll select vegetables and spices directly from the garden before heading to an open kitchen, where you’ll learn how to prepare typical Balinese recipes under the guidance of a local chef. This day will be marked by unique culinary discoveries and will end with an unforgettable tasting lunch, where you’ll savor the dishes you have prepared. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to relax and appreciate the peaceful and enchanting setting of Sidemen. - Meals included: Breakfast & lunch

This morning, you have the choice between enjoying the peaceful setting of your hotel or asking your driver to discover the beautiful water palaces of East Bali. Explore the pools of Tirta Gangga and the magnificent Taman Ujung, two iconic sites where traditional architecture meets water in perfect harmony. Next, head to the southeast coast of Bali to reach Sanur, an authentic and lively seaside resort. Known for its lovely beach, shops, restaurants, and bars. Here, you can enjoy some time by the ocean before heading home. - Suggested visits: Tirta Gangga, Taman Ujung, and Kusamba - Meals included: Breakfast - Accommodation: Beachfront hotel

Enjoy this free day by the beach in Sanur, an ideal place to recharge. Let the serenity of your hotel envelop you, stroll through the charming shopping lanes, and relax on the golden sands of the beach. - Meals included: Breakfast Option to enrich your itinerary: - Extend your beach stay for a few more days to enjoy this idyllic setting even more. - Escape to a nearby island to discover even more hidden treasures around Bali.

This is your last day on the beautiful Island of the Gods. Check-out from your hotel is between 11:00 AM and noon. If your departure is planned for the afternoon or evening, you can leave your luggage at the reception. Enjoy your final moments savoring the enchanting setting and the surroundings of your hotel before your driver arrives for the private transfer to the airport. - Meals included: Breakfast