Luxury Island Tour of Java, Bali & Sumba - 14 Days

Highlights

• Learn the art of traditional batik fabric-working at a hands-on workshop
• See endless highland views from your private balcony at Plataran Bromo Hotel
• View intricate carvings and Hindu statues at the ancient Goa Gajah cave
• Cool off in the crashing cascades and crystalline pools of Lapopu Waterfall

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Yogyakarta, Free Time to Explore 

Welcome to Indonesia! Your flight lands on the volcano-dotted island of Java, which sits between Sumatra and Bali. Upon arrival, your driver will collect you from the airport and transport you to Yogyakarta, which is known for its art scene and rich culture. You'll be staying at the Amanjiwo Resort and Hotel, a luxury property overlooking the massive temple complex of Borobudur. Here, you'll find tastefully decorated suites, most of which include private pools and panoramic views of the temple. Other amenities include daily tea service, cultural lectures, and an on-site spa with various wellness packages.

Take some time to rest and regroup; then, you're free to explore. Visit landmarks such as the Sultan's Palace, which was built in the 1700s under Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. Learn about the region's history and the role of the sultanate in modern Indonesia as you wander through the palace complex, admiring the impressive architecture and the museum's display of royal artifacts. You can also catch a traditional Javanese dance performance or music show in the palace courtyard.

If you're interested in the city's arts and culture, you'll find incredible street art on nearly every corner. There's also the Affandi Museum and the Jogja Gallery for contemporary Indonesian art and information on the region's artistic traditions. Visit Malioboro Street for shopping, stop by the lively Alun Alun neighborhood, or see a traditional wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performance. This centuries-old art form combines storytelling, music, and intricate puppetry.

Day 2: Traditional Batik Workshop, Prambanan Temple & Ramayana Ballet 

Begin your cultural immersion in Indonesia with a batik workshop. This centuries-old art form involves applying wax patterns to fabric before dyeing, creating gorgeous, intricate designs. You'll meet a local batik expert and learn about their techniques and tools, how the fabrics are sourced, and the process of making the natural dyes. With your instructor's help, you'll create your own piece of art, leaving you with a one-of-a-kind memento of your time in Indonesia. 

Afterward, visit Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia's largest Hindu temple complexes. The site includes a central temple dedicated to Shiva and several smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities. Walk through the main complex and see the intricate carvings and towering spires, then stroll through the surrounding park and some of the lesser-known temples in the area. Along the way, your private guide will explain more about the history and legends surrounding the temples.

Finish the day with a Ramayana Ballet performance, which takes place on-site. Watch more than 200 dancers move and flow to the music of a traditional Javanese and Balinese orchestra as they tell the Rama and Sita in one of Java's most spectacular dance performances. The show also includes a delicious Indonesian dinner, after which your driver will return you to your hotel.

Day 3: Java's Sacred Sites: Borobudur, Candi Pawon & Mendut Temples

Learn more about Indonesia's history with a privately guided temple tour, starting at Borobudur. This ninth-century temple is considered one of the most significant Buddhist monuments in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple has thousands of intricate relief panels and more than 500 Buddha statues. Meet your private guide and explore the various levels of the temple while listening to the stories and myths behind the statues and panels. 

Continue to the temples of Pawon and Mendut, also built in the ninth century. The three temples are in a straight line, making them easy to access on foot. Start at Mendut, just under 2 miles (3 km) from Borobudur. The temple was built and completed during the reign of King Indra of the Sailendra dynasty, and your guide will take you through the picturesque grounds, which include giant stone statues and intricately carved stairways and chambers.

Your final stop is Pawon. While smaller than the other temples, it's still considered an important part of the history and culture of the three, and you'll find a large entrance gate adorned with a carved Kala Makara, sculptures depicting flowers and vines, and niches with carved images of the god Kubera. After your tour, your guide will return you to your hotel, where you can enjoy a quiet dinner. 

Day 4: Train to Surabaya, Transfer to Mount Bromo

In the morning, check out of your hotel and take a private transfer to the train station, where you'll board your rail car for Surabaya, a ride of approximately five hours. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to the slopes of Mount Bromo, an active volcano in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. 

You'll be staying at Plataran Bromo, an upscale resort nestled in the mountain highlands, and sitting at what is considered the gateway of the park. Rooms and suites here offer tasteful, elegant decor that blends with natural elements, luxury linens, and private balconies with endless views of the plantations and hills. After check-in, your afternoon is free, with options to see some of the countryside or just relax at the hotel, taking advantage of their on-site spa and restaurant. 

Day 5: Sunrise Hike on Mount Bromo, Fly to Bali, Transfer to Ubud

The day starts early as you meet your guides for a private Jeep tour and hike of Mount Bromo. One of five different volcanoes in Tengger Semeru National Park, Bromo sits at more than 7,600 feet (2,329 m). While it's not the tallest in the region, it's one of the most active volcanoes and one of the most imposing. The tour takes you into the park via Jeep, where you'll traverse lunar-like landscapes and stop to hike around the area. Ascend to the peak, where you'll be treated to a stunning sunrise view over the smoking caldera below. 

From here, you're off to Bali, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands and known for its lush landscapes, ornate temples, and rich cultural traditions. Your driver will drop you at the airport for your flight. Upon arrival, you'll take a private transfer to the town of Ubud, where you'll check in at the COMO Uma Ubud. This luxury resort features rooms with contemporary Asian decor, options for private terraces or pool suites, and on-site restaurants offering world-class cuisine. 

After hotel check-in, explore more of Ubud on your own. Head into town and stroll along its charming streets, stopping at local shops or grabbing a bite at a local restaurant. For souvenirs, visit the Ubud Art Market, where you can find items like silk scarves, handcrafted bags, and fun kites, or if you'd like to get out into nature, make your way to the temple of Pura Gunung Lebah and follow the Campuhan Ridge Walk. This hourlong, relatively easy hike takes you through rice paddies and palm trees, ending at the top of the ridge. Tonight, relax at your hotel after a long day.

Day 6: Jeep Adventure to Batur Volcano, 11-Course Dinner Experience

Today you'll set off on an exhilarating and adventurous journey to Bali's Batur volcano. Meet your guides in the morning and set out, stopping first at the Batur Volcano Museum, where you can learn more about the volcano's history and see some of the geological marvels unearthed by researchers and scientists. Then, you'll drive into the Batur caldera, a UNESCO Global Geopark with black lava fields and sandy landscapes creating an otherworldly terrain.

Your guide will share more information about the volcano as you go, and you'll have time for coffee and lunch on Batur's slopes. On the way back, stop at the natural hot springs of Pura Batur, a serene oasis amid volcanic landscapes. Soothe tired muscles in the healing thermal waters, and come away fully refreshed for the drive back to Ubud.

This evening, enjoy a culinary experience like no other with an 11-course dinner. Put yourself in the hands of a master chef, sampling dishes designed to delight the senses, where each course is a work of art with its own story. Learn more about Balinese cuisine, sip delicious wine, and leave with a full stomach and fully satiated palate.

Day 7: Tirta Empul & Gunung Kawi Temples, Goa Gajah Cave, Balinese Massage

Discover the spiritual side of Balinese culture today, starting with a privately guided visit to the iconic Tirta Empul. Tour the temple complex, where you'll see people bathing in the "Holy Spring," renowned for its healing properties. Learn about Balinese traditions as you observe locals use the 11 water spouts in the central courtyard for spiritual cleansing.

Continue to Gunung Kawi, a temple complex of 10 different shrine reliefs carved into the cliffs. The intricate designs were made to look like small buildings, with spectacular views of the valley below. End at Goa Gajah, a Hindu cave temple on the outskirts of the island that archaeologists believe was hand-dug by Hindu priests for use as a sanctuary. Learn about the cave's history and take in the ornately carved entrance and statues of Hindu deities. As residents still use the cave for prayers and offerings, visitors are asked to respect this and refrain from taking photos.

Return to your hotel in time for lunch, then spend the afternoon indulging in a rejuvenating and pampering Balinese massage. You can choose between one or two-hour massages, with options for body, foot, or facials, as well as add-ons such as essential oils or coffee scrubs. Immerse yourself in a truly blissful experience and come away refreshed and fully relaxed.

Day 8: Fly to Sumba, Beaches & Nature Around the Island

Your next destination is Sumba, an island in eastern Indonesia that's part of the East Nusa Tenggara province. After breakfast, your driver will drop you at the airport, where you'll catch your flight to the island. Arrive and take a private transfer to your accommodations at NIHI Sumba, a luxury hotel that blends the island's natural wonders with modern style.

The drive takes you across the island, winding through charming villages and communities as you immerse yourself in authentic Sumbanese culture and hospitality. Traverse rugged terrain and cross rivers, all accompanied by vistas of rolling hills, green forests, and pristine coastlines that paint the backdrop of this island paradise. You're also likely to see Sumba's sandalwood horses, a breed native to the island named after the sandalwood tree.

Check into your private villa, where you can enjoy ocean and beach views, private pools, and open-air terraces that showcase the sights and sounds of the surrounding jungle. Discover Sumba's countryside this afternoon, exploring on your own or taking advantage of the different tour options offered by the resort. Go horseback riding, visit local beaches, or just unwind in your beautifully appointed room. Dine at NIHI's beachside restaurant this evening, watching the sun drop below the sea as you sip delicious cocktails.

Day 9: Guided Tour of Sumba's Cultural Market, Beach Afternoon

Spend this morning at Sumba's market, a traditional shopping spot for locals where you'll find exotic fruits, vivid textiles, and intricate handcrafted wares, each telling a story of Sumba's rich cultural heritage. Weave through the bustling labyrinth of stalls, listening to the rhythmic cadence of local dialects and lively bartering between vendors and patrons. Sample various food items, shop for artisan crafts, and soak in the atmosphere of daily island life. Afterward, you can return to your hotel, have lunch at a local restaurant, or perhaps head to the beach for some sun and sand. 

Day 10: Waterfalls of Sumba: Lapopu, Tanggedu, Matayangu & Tanarara

See more of Sumba's natural beauty today by visiting the lagoons and waterfalls around the island. Together with your private guide, you'll start at Weekuri Lagoon, a serene oasis surrounded by dense greenery and crystalline waters. From here, continue to Lapopu Waterfall, a multitiered cascade accessed via jungle trails and a bamboo bridge.

Your guide will transport you to the trailhead, where you'll make the quick hike through tropical landscapes and along the nearby river to the falls. The waterfall flows over step-like rocks at nearly 300 feet (90 m) into a gorgeous blue pool. You'll have time to rest, take pictures, and cool off in the pool if you like.

Next is Tanggedu Waterfall, which sits in a dense forest next to Tanggedu Village. The cascades here are surrounded by unusual rock formations, making it comparable to the Grand Canyon. This waterfall doesn't have great road access, so be ready to hike with your guide along roughly 1.5 miles (2.5 km) of jungle trails to see it. Make a stop at Matayangu Waterfall, a dramatic cascade set against a backdrop of verdant cliffs, then conclude at Tanarara Waterfall, located in a quiet wilderness area where the sounds of the falls blend perfectly with nature. 

Day 11: Discover Sumba's Savanna

The savannas of Sumba are one of the most picturesque parts of the scenery here, and today, you'll have a chance to see more of them. You can start with a visit to Wairinding Hill, located in East Sumba, about 45 minutes from the town of Waingapu. This must-see spot, one of the most popular destinations on the island, showcases the vast rolling hills to perfection, punctuated by views of the rice fields of Mauliru. 

See the herds of Sumba horses grazing in the hills and visit Sumbanese megalithic tombs and traditional thatched-roof villages. You can also stop to meet local Sumbanese woodcarvers and witness their artistry as they craft traditional sculptures. End the day watching the sun cast its glow over the seemingly endless landscapes, then return to your hotel in time for dinner. 

Day 12: Cultural Tour of Sumba's Traditional Villages 

Spend the morning visiting Sumba's traditional villages, each with its own charms and cultural heritage. Start at Weigali, a community in the Wanokaka district known for its intricate handwoven textiles and vibrant ceremonial traditions. Meander through the village and see traditional thatched-roof houses and ancient tombs, which serve as a testament to the ancient customs and beliefs of the Sumbanese people.

Next, visit Praigoli, which is also part of the Wanokaka district. The village is home to a 200-year-old watu kajiwa (megalithic tomb), which you'll get to visit, as well as meet local villagers and learn more about their daily lives. You also have the option of venturing farther into southwestern Sumba, where the villages of Rottenggaro, Wainyapu, and Tosi are located. During your tour, you'll sample traditional snacks, chat with the village residents, and gain insight into their daily routines and rituals. You'll come away with a profound appreciation for the villages' importance and legacy.

Day 13: Fly to Bali, Transfer to Jimbaran, Evening at Bali's Rock Bar

It's back to Bali and Jimbaran, a fishing village and resort area known for its white-sand beaches and seaside vibes. After hotel checkout, your driver will transport you to the airport for the two-hour flight. Arrive and take a private transfer to your hotel, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Sheltered in a quiet bay right on the water, you'll enjoy well-appointed rooms with traditional Balinese decor, options for villas with private pools and ocean views, and a wealth of amenities at your fingertips. 

Spend the afternoon at the resort, taking advantage of your private pool or other amenities, then tonight, head over to Jimbarin's Rock Bar, where you'll find a cliffside entrance and a custom DJ booth carved right into the cliff face. With elegant, minimalist decor and an expansive drink menu, the bar is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Sit at their Round Bar, listen to live music, and sip handcrafted cocktails, enjoying the elegant, lively atmosphere, all backed by views of the Indian Ocean. 

Day 14: Morning Beach Time in Jimbaran, Depart Bali

If there's time before your departure, soak up a bit more sun at the hotel pool or ask your driver to take you to one of Jimbaran's many beaches for a last round of sun and fun. You can also do some last-minute souvenir shopping or visit a spa to ensure you're refreshed before your flight. 

Afterward, it's time to say goodbye to the islands of Indonesia. At the appointed time, your private driver will collect you for your transfer to the airport and your journey home. Safe travels!

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