Discover Java, Bali & the Komodo Archipelago - 15 Days

Highlights

• Ride a horse-drawn carriage through the traditional streets of Candirejo village
• Meet long-tailed macaques at the Sacred Monkey Forest near Ubud
• Swim beneath Bali's hidden waterfall, Tukad Cepung, deep within a cave
• Savor a delectable Balinese seafood barbecue on the beach at Jimbaran
• See the huge Komodo dragon and explore hidden caves in Komodo National Park

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta, Explore at Leisure

Welcome to Indonesia! After you arrive in Jakarta, the country's capital, meet your driver for a hotel transfer. Settle in, then set out to explore the busy streets, fantastic cuisine, modern skyscrapers, and colonial architecture. Begin in the historic district of Kota Tua at Fatahillah Square, once the administrative center of the Dutch East India Company. While there, be sure to see the Jakarta History Museum and the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.

Following your exploration of Kota Tua, try Indonesian street food, from martabak (stuffed pancakes) to bakso (meatball soup), at the "food" street Jalan Sabang. In the market, sample the famous kopi luwak coffee. One of the world's most expensive coffees, it's made from beans that have passed through the digestive system of a small, local mammal.

Later, visit Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a park with beautifully designed pavilions representing each province. Wander through to discover Indonesia's customs, architecture, and traditions, demonstrated in miniature replicas of temples, houses, and landmarks. The park hosts authentic dance shows and other cultural events, so catch one if possible.

Day 2: Fly to Yogyakarta, Visit Borobudur Temple & Candirejo Village

Head back to Jakarta's airport this morning and fly for about one hour to Yogyakarta, Java's epicenter of traditional arts and culture, where you'll spend the next two nights. Once you land, join a tour for an hour's drive north to the world's largest Buddhist temple, the UNESCO-listed Borobudur. This eighth-century structure is shaped like a mandala, with impressive stupas (dome-shaped monuments) and expansive terraces surrounded by 500 Buddha statues and spectacular views of Merapi, one of the world's most active volcanoes.

Rejoin your driver and travel to Candirejo village, a traditional Javanese hamlet known for its classic architecture, long history, and rural scenery. Learn about the local people's customs, traditions, and daily activities as you tour the village, visiting an authentic puppet-making shop and a Javanese herbal medicine center. Then, take a horse-drawn carriage through the charming streets or a guided cycling tour around the surrounding countryside. 

Finally, you'll transfer to your accommodation in the center of Yogyakarta. Immerse yourself in the lively arts scene by wandering the mural-filled streets or exploring the Affandi Museum and the Jogja Gallery for a crash course in local Indonesian artistry. Try your hand at local handicrafts like a batik class, one of Java's quintessential art traditions. Explore the giant bazaar at Malioboro Street for shopping and people-watching, then end the day in Alun Alun for dinner at one of the city's night markets.

Day 3: Visit the Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta Palace & Taman Sari Water Palace

Begin your day with a two-hour guided visit to the ninth-century Prambanan Temple, an architectural masterpiece adorned with carvings depicting stories and myths of Hindu deities. Walk among the towering spires of one of Southeast Asia's largest and most beautiful Hindu temples and marvel at the central temple, the tallest in Java at 154 feet (47 m). Listen as your guide provides insight into the structure's history and religious significance, including the legend of Roro Jonggrang, a princess who was turned into one of the stone temples.

Follow up by delving deeper into Yogyakarta's culture with a one-hour visit to Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton Yogyakarta), the 18th-century royal palace and residence of the Sultan. Explore the blend of Javanese and European architecture, strolling through pavilions, courtyards, and gardens while learning about the history of the Yogyakarta Sultanate and watching traditional Javanese dance and music performances. 

End the day at Taman Sari Water Palace, an 18th-century royal garden and retreat. The expansive grounds include a complex system of water features, including lakes, canals, and fountains. Wander through the remains of bathing pools and structures once used by the Sultan and his family, along with other partially restored ruins. Finally, head back to Yogyakarta for your final night in the city. 

Day 4: Fly to Bali, Transfer to Ubud, Balinese Spa Experience

Catch a 1.5-hour flight from Yogyakarta to the island of Bali this morning. After you arrive at Denpasar International Airport, meet your driver for a transfer to the charming town of Ubud and check into your hotel. Surrounded by green rice terraces and tropical forests dotted with ancient Hindu temples, Ubud is considered the spiritual center of Bali. Get the lay of the land this afternoon by hiking along the easy and scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk or exploring one of the many galleries in Ubud's thriving art scene.

Later in the day, participate in a session at a traditional Balinese spa, which Ubud is well known for. Step into a world of serenity and be greeted by the soothing aromas of essential oils and the gentle melodies of Balinese music. Choose from a traditional Balinese massage, a luxurious body wrap, or a revitalizing facial—with each treatment designed to awaken your senses, relax your body, and restore harmony to your soul. 

Day 5: Munduk Waterfall Trekking, Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Pull on your hiking boots this morning, meet your driver, and travel to nearby Munduk, a village sometimes known as the "waterfall capital of Bali." Today, you'll experience one of these famous cascades on a guided hike through the heart of the Balinese jungle on your way to Munduk waterfalls. Pass through lush green landscapes, tea plantations, and rolling hills, then, once you arrive, swim below the cascading 82-foot-high (25 m) falls before continuing to nearby hot springs surrounded by nature.

From here, head with your driver to one of Bali's most iconic landmarks, Ulun Danu Beratan, on the shores of Beratan Lake. The temple, dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, is an important religious site for the Balinese. Admire the complex, characterized by its distinctive multi-tiered shrines, set against the backdrop of the misty mountains and serene lake. Wander the botanical gardens that extend down to the lake and feature local and exotic plant species, and discover the five temples dedicated to Hindu deities before returning to your hotel in Ubud. 

Day 6: Visit Ubud Market, Ubud Palace & the Sacred Monkey Forest

Immerse yourself in Ubud's rich culture this morning. Begin by shopping for handmade Balinese crafts and souvenirs at the world-renowned Ubud Art Market, a lively open-air hub. Snap up gifts for yourself or a loved one, such as traditional textiles, woodcarvings, jewelry, and paintings. You can also shop in the conventional, everyday section of the market for items like fruits, vegetables, and household goods.

After exploring the market, visit the formerly royal Ubud Palace, also known as the Puri Saren Palace, with its well-preserved Balinese architecture and lovely gardens. While there, you'll enjoy a traditional legong dance performance, which takes place daily. Legong, which likely originated in the 19th century, requires such intense training that most girls begin at the age of five. Watch as the complicated hand movements and intricate footwork tell a mesmerizing story of mythical origins, accompanied by traditional music.

When you're ready, head with your driver to the 14th-century Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a popular tourist attraction in Ubud and home to over 700 long-tailed macaque monkeys. Observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts from your guide. The forest sanctuary, established in the 14th century and sacred to the locals, is also home to several temples. As you walk through the forest to visit the intricate shrines and temples, you can meet and feed the resident monkeys, wandering freely.

Day 7:  Kintamani Cycling Tour, Visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall

This morning's adventures begin early, as you're picked up from your hotel for a guided mountain bike tour through some of Bali's most picturesque highland regions. You'll begin your ride near the well-known volcano of Mount Batur and Kintamani Lake. Cycle for two to three hours through 18 miles (30 km) of forest trails, past historic Hindu temples, local communities, and verdant rice plantations. Make stops to explore a traditional Balinese village, take in the scenery from various viewpoints, and drop in at farm stands to sample exotic fruits and coffee from the source.

Following the ride, join a guide for an hour's hike down a narrow, rocky path through lush forest to the Tukad Cepung waterfall, which cascades into a cave. Here, you'll stop for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pools below this hidden gem. After your cool down and return hike, rejoin your driver for the transfer back to Ubud.

Day 8: Dewa Malen Wood Carving Tour, Visit Setia Darma House & Mas Village

Delve into Ubud's rich artisan culture today, starting with a tour of the Dewa Malen Art Gallery. The gallery is dedicated to local wood carving and showcases the fine craftsmanship of Dewa Malen, a talented local artist. During your visit, witness the intricate process of wood carving, admire the many incredible creations, and learn about the cultural significance of Balinese wood carving.

Continue your tour at the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets. This museum holds around 7,000 masks and puppets from Bali and greater Indonesia and from all over the world, including Japan, Cambodia, China, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, and a selection from Africa. Appreciate the history and craftsmanship of these culturally significant art pieces, as well as rotating exhibits that feature regional photography and other artwork.

In the afternoon, meet your guide for a 30-minute drive to Mas village, known for its intricate wood carvings sold worldwide. Watch the talented artisans create different shapes and creatures from the wood and learn all about the carving process, a traditional art form passed down since the 15th century. Purchase one of these incredible pieces of wood art straight from the artist, then return to Ubud for the night.

Day 9: Balinese Food Tour, Visit Tanah Lot Temple, Transfer to Nusa Dua

Join your guide for a tour of Bali's food culture this morning. Visit cafés, restaurants, markets, and street food stalls to sample uniquely Balinese flavors. Taste popular local dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), various types of satay, lawar (finely minced spiced beef), babi guling (roast pork), mie goreng (fried noodles), or the special-occasion dish of bebek betutu (slow-cooked spiced duck in banana leaves). Save room for traditional sweets, such as laklak (rice pancakes) or pisang goreng (banana fritters).

Pick up your luggage from the hotel before making the journey with your driver to Tanah Lot, a 16th-century temple dramatically perched on a wave-lashed rocky outcrop. The temple, dedicated to Balinese sea gods, is only accessed via a narrow causeway during low tide. Watch the spectacular sunset, meet the sacred monkeys said to protect the temple, or browse the few on-site shops for local handicrafts. Then, get back in the car for a 1.5-hour transfer to your hotel in Nusa Dua. This coastal town in southern Bali is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts. 

Day 10: Water Sports in Nusa Dua

Spend the day engaging in Nusa Dua's water sports and activities that are ideal for adrenaline junkies. Head to one of the nearby beaches to snorkel above the offshore reefs, lie on the sand, or take a wild banana boat ride. If you want to explore more of the pristine waters, strap on your tank for scuba diving or take a class at one of the many dive shops. Rent a Jet Ski, go parasailing, or discover the newest technology with a water jetpacking session. End the day watching the sunset and enjoying the lively nightlife of Nusa Dua.

Day 11: Visit Uluwatu Temple, Jimbaran Seafood Barbecue Evening

Today takes you to the spectacular setting of Uluwatu, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu. This 11th-century temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, is dedicated to the Hindu god of the sea, Dewa Baruna. The temple is also home to a large population of monkeys, considered sacred and believed to protect the temple from evil spirits. Explore the temple grounds and learn about the history and traditions of Balinese Hinduism. While there, you'll also witness a kecak dance performance—a Balinese dance and music form that originated in the 1930s in Bona, Bali.

Be immersed in the mesmerizing rhythmic chanting sound created by the bodies and voices of the male dancers as you watch. In the evening, head to a beach in nearby Jimbaran for a traditional seafood barbecue of freshly caught fish grilled over an open flame. Savor grilled prawns, squid, and lobster with spicy sambal sauce and steamed rice while you enjoy the ambience of candlelit tables on the beach. Afterward, return to your accommodation in Nusa Dua. 

Day 12: Fly to Labuan Bajo, Explore Rangko & Mirror Caves, Hike To Amelia Sea View

This morning, check out of your hotel in Nusa Dua and head to the airport for your 1.5-hour flight to beautiful Labuan Bajo. This small but bustling town on Indonesia's westernmost Flores island is the gateway to the famous Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for being home to the largest lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon. Meet your driver on arrival for a transfer to your accommodation and then set out on an adventurous guided boat excursion to Goa Rangko, a hidden gem about thirty minutes away.

This sunlit, seaside cavern is reachable only by boat, and once you arrive, you'll be able to swim in the turquoise waters illuminated by sunlight filtering through a hole in the ceiling. Continue your cave explorations at the Batu Cermin (Mirror Cave), a vast network of underground tunnels and chambers with seemingly endless corridors featuring ancient stalactites and stalagmites. Thanks to the high salt concentration, these natural formations sparkle under the light of your flashlight—hence the reason for the name "mirror." 

End the day at Amelia Sea View, a scenic viewpoint perched atop a hill that provides a perfect vantage point for views of the lush green islands dotting the clear blue waters of the Flores Sea. After soaking in the spectacular vista, return to your hotel in Labuan Bajo for the evening.

Day 13: Visit Kelor Island, Sunset on Kalong Island, Boat to Seraya

Leave Labuan Bajo behind, grab your luggage, and hop aboard a charter boat to Seraya. You'll sail first to the uninhabited island of Pulau Kelor, a tiny piece of paradise known for its white-sand beach—a prime spot for relaxing, snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Jump off here and embark on a steep, 10-minute hike to the island's highest point for rewarding views of the surrounding islands and sea. On your way back down, look for exotic birds and other wildlife before continuing your island hop.

End the day with a picture-perfect sunset at Kalong Island, also known as "Flying Foxes Island," due to the large population of bats that inhabit the mangrove-covered islet. Arrive at dusk to witness the memorable moment where around 300,000 of these bats take flight into the setting sun for their nightly hunt. Finally, relax on your boat for the remainder of your trip until you reach the small island of Seraya, where you'll stay in a peaceful beachfront villa. 

Day 14: Explore Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island & Taka Makassar

Today, you'll sail to Padar Island, where you'll begin an early-morning trek across the rugged but beautiful landscape to reach the island's highest point for views of nearby islands like Komodo Island and Rinca Island. Watch for wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and various bird species as you climb. The steep staircase can be challenging in places, but once you're at the viewpoint, you'll marvel at the sight below of beaches in three different colors: black, pink, and white.

Trek down to the famous Pink Beach, which gets its rosy hue from ground coral fragments. Relax on the beach, snap a few photos, swim, and snorkel at the offshore reef to see tropical fish and sea turtles. Then, gear up for the next adventure—Komodo Island. This is the best place in the archipelago to spot the Komodo dragon, which lives nowhere else on Earth. These huge lizards can grow up to 9.8 feet (3 m) and average 150 pounds (70 kg).

End the day snorkeling with manta rays off the tiny and beautiful Taka Makassar, a spit of sand surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Relax on the sand and spot marine creatures like black-tip reef sharks, turtles, and colorful tropical fish before boarding your boat to return to your villa on Seraya.

Day 15: Boat to Labuan Bajo, Fly to Bali, Depart

You may have time for some last-minute exploration or a walk on the beach before hopping a boat back to Labuan Bajo, where your driver will pick you up and take you to the airport. Catch a short flight to Bali's international airport, and board your plane to destinations near or far. Selamat jalan! (Happy travels!)

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