Highlights
- Take in the incredible views from the spires of UNESCO-listed Borobudur
- Swim beneath the hidden Madakaripura Waterfall
- Snorkel amid the colorful reefs of the Anambas archipelago
- Try a traditional Balinese couples massage in the spa on the island of Bawah
Brief Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Jakarta, Explore the Indonesian Capital | Jakarta |
Day 2 | Fly to Yogyakarta, Visit Borobudur Temple & Candirejo Village | Yogyakarta |
Day 3 | Batik Workshop & Kota Gede Walking Tour | Yogyakarta |
Day 4 | See Yogyakarta's Palaces & Temples, Transfer to Solo | Solo |
Day 5 | Transfer to Mount Bromo, Visit Madakaripura Waterfall | Mount Bromo, East Java |
Day 6 | Sunrise on Mount Bromo, Garden Dinner at Jiva Devi Nursery | Mount Bromo, East Java |
Day 7 | Fly to Batam, Island Food Tour | Batam |
Day 8 | Fly to Bawah, Reef Snorkeling, Romantic Dinner & Stargazing | Bawah |
Day 9 | Release Endangered Sea Turtle Hatchlings, Explore More of Bawah | Bawah |
Day 10 | Sail Through the Anambas Islands, Balinese Spa Experience | Bawah |
Day 11 | Fly to Batam, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta, Explore the Indonesian Capital
![Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) Arrival Airport Assistance](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/d4dbc05b11f639c3a9920cbe38f844a2fa563589/original-ab7df1bc008e398c52a99f32227d6ca2.jpg)
Welcome to Indonesia! After you arrive in Jakarta, the country's capital, you'll meet your driver for your hotel transfer. After settling in, 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, don't miss the Jakarta History Museum and the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.
After exploring Kota Tua, try Indonesian street food, from nasi goreng (fried rice) to martabak (stuffed pancakes) and bakso (meatball soup) at Jalan Sabang. Don't forget to sample a cup of the famous kopi luwak in the market. One of the world's most expensive coffees, it's made from beans that have passed through the digestive system the the local Asian palm civet.
Later, visit Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a park with beautifully designed pavilions representing each province. Wander hand-in-hand 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
![Transfer from Jakarta (CGK) to Yogyakarta (YIA) via Borobudur Temple](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/5826b286873a381a3cdd5c0794a73e4c729d459e/original-e35c78174528066f9e4935df87ee1fec.jpg)
Today, you and your partner will fly for about one hour to Yogyakarta, Java's epicenter of traditional arts and culture, and your home for 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 and expansive terraces surrounded by 500 Buddha statues and spectacular volcano views.
Your driver will then take you to Candirejo Village, a traditional Javanese hamlet known for its classic architecture, long history, and rural scenery. 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 cycle 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 on local Indonesian artistry. Try your hand at the local handicrafts, a traditional puppet-making workshop, or in 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: Batik Workshop & Kota Gede Walking Tour
![Batik Workshop](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/495226b6b5358934d1eb1d39aceadf0ed2216713/original-cd3e89afcaa2d678bb41871e06d74b37.jpg)
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: See Yogyakarta's Palaces & Temples, Transfer to Solo
![Keraton Yogya](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/7ab37ef5a847e6beb4e524f64f25f11242cd2982/original-aaebfcb313af272f1146aa89e422b38d.jpg)
Today, explore the city's top historic sites, beginning at the Kraton, or Sultan Palace, which has served as the compound of the Sultan of Yogyakarta since 1756, with gracious pavilions and courtyards entered through gates guarded by giant dragons. Then, it's on to the Taman Sari, built in the mid-18th century as a pleasure palace for the Sultan of Yogyakarta and his wives and concubines. The palace overlooks the Umbul Pasiraman pool complex, where the Sultan could observe the women bathing (whoever caught a rose thrown from the tower would be his "wife" for the day).
Next, head to Prambanan (known locally as Roro Jonggrang), considered by many to be the most beautiful Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Built in the ninth century, its iconic main temple (rising 140 ft /47 m) is dedicated to Shiva (the destroyer), while to either side are smaller, yet similar, temples to Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the sustainer). You'll soon understand why Prambanan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991.
Then, you'll move on to another Javanese city, Surakarta, also known as Solo, about an hour's drive east. Check in at your hotel and then go for a stroll around a local batik market—this is one of the best places in the country to buy the unique printed fabric. Visit the beautiful Royal Palace of Surakarta, then, in the evening, sample some local favorites such as sate kambing (grilled goat skewers) and nasi liwet (rice with coconut milk and spices).Day 5: Transfer to Mount Bromo, Visit Madakaripura Waterfall
![Bromo Jeep](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/113f19d458fd42ed1509a5004116b62adc3b7d89/original-936f3ba672d73abc0b5bb93503d3ecfa.jpg)
Early in the morning, meet your driver for a five-hour transfer from Yogyakarta to the foothills of Mount Bromo in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. This active volcano, whose name was derived from the Javanese word for Brahma, the Hindu creation god, is one of East Java's most visited sites.
To split up the drive, you'll make a stop at the Madakaripura Waterfall, hidden within a valley in the foothills of the Tengger Mountain Range. The highest waterfall in Java, Madakaripura flows over a lush, green cliffside into a secret pool, ideal for a refreshing dip (remember to bring your swimsuit!).
Day 6: Sunrise on Mount Bromo, Garden Dinner at Jiva Devi Nursery
![Sunrise Al-Fresco Bromo](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/62ec740992479efcf5ad6837e40f4a540de0c34b/original-6ed773d2021fba147c2efab9ac7c5f0d.jpg)
Today will start early, before dawn, but it will all be worth it as you set off by Jeep toward the top of Mount Penanjakan. Look out over the Sea of Sand crater, home to five volcanoes, including Mount Bromo itself. Watch the early morning mist evaporate to reveal panoramic views of the sun rising over the national park.
Once the sun has brightened the sky, climb back into your Jeep and descend for a different perspective of this lunar-like landscape. This is the base for your hike up Mount Bromo, which soars 7,641 feet (2,329 m) above sea level. The 30-minute walk is ideal for a leisurely morning hike with your sweetheart, and an al fresco breakfast will be waiting for you at the peak. As you eat the freshly prepared food, look down into Bromo's smoking caldera before continuing your journey to King Kong Hill for more spectacular views.
After all the day's early activity, it's time to return to your hotel for a rest. In the evening, head to the beautiful Jiva Devi Nursery for a romantic dinner for two. The Garden Dinner experience features a multicourse meal with various Indonesian specialties prepared from local ingredients, all served deep in the lush garden, full of gorgeous flora and fauna, and accompanied by candlelight.
Day 7: Fly to Batam, Island Food Tour
![Transfer from Surabaya (SUB) to Batam (BTH)](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/db2ba2fd8026bfc81bc5cb39e73836d275fff793/original-95de0ed91a45ec3f3bc1a21843f9c910.jpg)
Meet your driver this morning for a transfer to Surabaya, where you'll catch a two-hour flight to the island of Batam. This lovely island is especially famous for its seafood, as its location between Singapore and Indonesia (and other international influences) has combined to create a vibrant culinary scene.
Once you land, check into your hotel, then meet your guide for a food tour through the area's best seafood restaurants and street stalls. After you fill up on seafood, explore more of the island, perhaps stopping in one of the many malls for duty-free shopping or to purchase local handicrafts.
Day 8: Fly to Bawah, Reef Snorkeling, Romantic Dinner & Stargazing
![Transfer from Batam to Bawah Island](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/d7fdf051371f117bd8dfacdb31b851a3344ed4a9/original-5fff753de0d674b00ed7ae5a4b813a91.jpg)
This morning, return to the airport in Batam for a 1.5-hour flight to the private island of Bawah in the turquoise waters of the Anambas archipelago. Home to the idyllic Bawah Reserve resort, the island is ideal for honeymooners (or anyone looking for a romantic getaway) thanks to its exclusivity, luxury, and unspoiled beauty.
Check into your beachfront villa or overwater bungalow, then begin your exploration of this little paradise with a reef snorkeling excursion around the island. Strap on your fins and dive deep to explore these pristine waters, teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral, and learn more about local conservation from your guide.
Next on your itinerary is a romantic dinner for two on the beach. As you enjoy your perfectly prepared meal, watch the stars come out over the ocean and the island. With minimal light pollution, you can see endless stars and celestial phenomena, such as shooting stars or meteor showers.
Day 9: Release Endangered Sea Turtle Hatchlings, Explore More of Bawah
![Releasing Sea Turtles Hatchlings](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/df1f149792d31b0e2491d80526350eab9b4609b7/original-4ae61de13914eb333f863b2a4a1776d0.jpg)
Bawah is a nesting site for several endangered sea turtle species, such as green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Today you'll help protect these remarkable creatures by aiding a local group in releasing sea turtle hatchlings into the ocean. Witness the tiny turtles hatch out of their eggs right on the beach, then ensure safe passage into the nearby ocean with local experts.
Later in the day, you'll have time to explore the island at your leisure. Enjoy the many amenities offered at the resort, such as the spa or yoga studio, and climb aboard a kayak or paddleboard to explore more of the serene waters.
Day 10: Sail Through the Anambas Islands, Balinese Spa Experience
![Catamaran Sailing](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/9003cffefc8a191d6e1d56ac413e142314f95ab6/original-4d9e7623280ad50eccd9e7d8f494a08b.jpg)
This morning, meet a local sailor and board a catamaran for a sailing tour around the Anambas archipelago. Of the 255 islands that make up the archipelago, only around 26 are inhabited, which provides endless miles of unexplored ocean and white-sand beaches, complete with coconut trees.
After your sailing adventure, return to Bawah to wind down with Balinese spa treatments in the serene Aura Spa. Try out a traditional couples massage or indulge in various healing rituals, take part in meditation or yoga sessions, and let yourself be pampered and soothed.
Day 11: Fly to Batam, Depart
![Transfer from Bawah Island to Jakarta (CGK)](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/bc35feb436e33c84acb68511d2eaf4eb2ab0eaea/original-2496b9e3d0131ce57bf071cfb937941a.jpg)
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