Highlights of Java - 6 Days
Highlights
- Hike up Mount Ijen to see the blue flames
- Watch the sunrise over the Bromo Volcano
- Learn about farming and crafting techniques from village locals
- Visit the largest Buddhist temple in the world at Borobudur
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Ubud, Ferry to Mount Ijen | Mount Ijen |
| Day 2 | Mount Ijen Sunrise Trek, Transfer to Mount Bromo | Mount Bromo |
| Day 3 | Mount Penanjakan Ascent & Mount Bromo Sunrise, Train to Yogyakarta | Yogyakarta |
| Day 4 | Explore Yogyakarta | Yogyakarta |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Borobudur via Candran & Giriloyo | Borobudur |
| Day 6 | Borobudur Sunrise Tour, Candirejo Village & Selogriyo Temple, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Ubud, Ferry to Mount Ijen
Welcome to the island of Java! Travel by ferry from Ubud, Bali to reach the Banyuwangi region in eastern Java, where you'll spend the night at the foot of the volcanic Mount Ijen (also referred to as "Kawah Ijen"). Settle into your hotel in time for dinner, and try to get an early night ahead of your sunrise ascent of the volcano tomorrow.
Day 2: Mount Ijen Sunrise Trek, Transfer to Mount Bromo
Rise before dawn for your climb to the top of Mount Ijen's crater, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the sunrise washing over the valley and sea below. Mount Ijen is famous for its blue flames, caused by burning sulfur found inside the crater, and its incredibly acidic but beautifully green crater lake.
After taking in the views, start your descent of the mountain and head back to your hotel for breakfast. Then make your way to Mount Bromo, another active volcano, where you'll spend the night.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Mount Penanjakan Ascent & Mount Bromo Sunrise, Train to Yogyakarta
Wake up early for a Jeep ride to the top of Mount Penanjakan, where you'll watch an unforgettable sunrise over the Bromo and Semeru volcanoes. Bromo's setting in a "sea of sand" makes for a surreal and dramatic backdrop that draws crowds of foreign and local visitors alike. Despite its popularity, the experience and the views are well worth the visit.
After a late breakfast, drive to Jombang, where you'll board a train to the city of Yogyakarta. The long journey is an excellent opportunity to see the Indonesian countryside as you pass through Javan villages. You'll be greeted at the Yogyakarta train station by your driver, who will take you to your hotel for the night.
Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta
Today you'll do some sightseeing in Yogyakarta, a city known for its traditional cultural landmarks and artsy, urban vibe. Start with a tour of the sultan's royal palace, the Kraton, and a visit to the nearby Taman Sari Water Castle, a historic royal garden oasis for the sultan and his family. Stop by the bird market, where you'll see a host of live birds and other animals for sale, and then learn how traditional wayang theater puppets are made.
Later in the afternoon, you'll go to the temples of Prambanan to enjoy a magnificent sunset. This 9th-century Hindu temple complex is the largest of its kind in Indonesia and one of the country's most important archaeological sites. In the evening, sample some of Yogyakarta's traditional dishes at the street food stalls of Malioboro Road, the city's main drag.
Day 5: Transfer to Borobudur via Candran & Giriloyo
Leave the city for the countryside today, starting with a visit to the nearby agricultural village of Candran, where you'll see rice paddies and meet local farmers. Then head to the village of Giriloyo, where you'll learn how to make traditional batik fabric and get a chance to practice your technique.
After your day of cultural immersion, make your way to your hotel near the Buddhist archaeological site of Borobudur, about an hour outside of Yogyakarta.
Day 6: Borobudur Sunrise Tour, Candirejo Village & Selogriyo Temple, Depart
Get ready for another early morning today! Wake up before dawn to avoid the crowds and catch the sunrise over the world's largest Buddhist temple at Borobudur. This vast ninth-century complex features over 500 statues of Buddha and is an excellent example of Javanese architecture.
After lunch, tour the small village of Candirejo by horse-drawn carriage, stopping at traditional houses and a craft factory. Then drive to Mount Sumbing for a 1.25-mile (2 km) walk through the rice fields to reach a small but beautiful eighth-century Hindu temple, Selogriyo. Enjoy this last glimpse of country life before the 1.5-hour return drive to Yogyakarta. Say farewell to Java and transfer to the airport to continue on to your next destination.
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