Classic Indonesia
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Covering nearly one-eighth of the world’s surface, the scattered gems of the Indonesian archipelago lie strewn across some two million square miles of ocean. Home to endangered orangutans and traditional Javanese culture, these spectacular islands offer up an intoxicating blend of rumbling volcanoes, idyllic golden beaches and some of the rarest wildlife on earth. This stunning adventure begins in northern Sumatra, where you will have an opportunity to trek through pristine rainforest in ...
Covering nearly one-eighth of the world’s surface, the scattered gems of the Indonesian archipelago lie strewn across some two million square miles of ocean. Home to endangered orangutans and traditional Javanese culture, these spectacular islands offer up an intoxicating blend of rumbling volcanoes, idyllic golden beaches and some of the rarest wildlife on earth. This stunning adventure begins in northern Sumatra, where you will have an opportunity to trek through pristine rainforest in search of orangutans and gibbons before rafting the waters of the Bingei River. A visit to the Batak Karo people of Samosir Island then gives you the chance to discover life along the shores of the world’s largest volcanic lake, before flying on to the Javan city of Yogyakarta and the cultural heart of Indonesia. Watch the sun rise over the iconic landscapes of Mount Bromo and the UNESCO temples of Borobudur, before hiking up to the spectacular crater lake of Mount Ijen. The climax of the journey then sees you crossing the Bali Strait, to spend the last few days enjoying the pristine beaches and dazzling reefs of the less-visited West Bali National Park.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Trek through lush rainforest in search of the orangutans of Gunung Leuser National Park
- Raft the waters of the Bingei and snorkel amongst the corals of West Bali
- Soak up the volcanic splendours of Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen
- Explore Yogyakarta’s creative culture and visit the UNESCO temples of Prambanan and Borobudur
- Discover the cultural traditions of Lake Toba and Samosir Island
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE MEDAN (SUMATRA)
DAY 1: ARRIVE MEDAN (SUMATRA)
Arriving in the North Sumatran capital today you will be met at the airport and transferred on to your hotel.
DAY 2: MEDAN - BUKIT LAWANG
DAY 2: MEDAN - BUKIT LAWANG
Following breakfast this morning you'll enjoy a short guided tour through the city, taking in some of its historical highlights. Filled with reminders of the city's colonial past, Medan is also home to the historic Tjong A Fie Mansion, the Maimoon Palace and the Great Mosque, whose Dutch creator incorporated aspects of Middle Eastern, Indian and Spanish elements into its design. Leaving the city behind you then drive on to Bukit Lawang, travelling through a scenic landscape scattered with plantations and local villages.
DAY 3: BUKIT LAWANG
DAY 3: BUKIT LAWANG
An early start sees you setting off into the jungle on foot, heading towards what was once the Bohorok Orangutan Centre, where park rangers still keep a close eye on the rehabilitated apes, as well as the resident gibbons and Thomas leaf monkeys. Starting with a steep ascent through the rainforests of the Gunung Leuser National Park, the spectacular landscapes provide some breathtaking views and a chance to learn more about jungle life. A picnic lunch will then be followed by a gentle tube float along the Bohorok River.
DAY 4: BUKIT LAWANG - BERASTAGI
DAY 4: BUKIT LAWANG - BERASTAGI
Departing Bukit Lawang after breakfast, your day begins with a drive to the banks of the Bingei River, where you will join an expert rafting team for an exhilarating white water rafting adventure. Spectacularly scenic, the 1 ½-hour journey takes you through a series of grade II and III rapids before depositing you back on shore in time to enjoy a traditional lunch. Continuing on to the cooler mountain town of Berastagi this afternoon you'll then head into a landscape famed for its fruit markets and volcanoes.
DAY 5: BERASTAGI - SAMOSIR ISLAND
DAY 5: BERASTAGI - SAMOSIR ISLAND
Another early start sees you undertaking the short climb up to Gunung Sibayak, one of Indonesia's most accessible volcanic peaks, where the views from the summit offer up some stunning panoramas across towards Mount Sinabung and the town of Berastagi. Descending back to the road you'll then drive on to the village of Dokan, home to the staunchly traditional Batak Karo people, before taking in the Sipiso-piso Waterfall and the impressive views over Lake Toba. Later this afternoon you will catch the ferry across to Samosir Island.
DAY 6: SAMOSIR ISLAND
DAY 6: SAMOSIR ISLAND
Samosir Island sits in the heart of Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. Today you will have an opportunity to learn more of this remarkable setting and its traditional Batak culture. The day begins with a visit to the fascinating Batak Toba village of Ambarita, once a centre for ritualistic execution and cannibalism. Next you'll visit Simanindo, where you will enjoy some traditional dancing, before moving on to explore the ancient tombs of the Batak kings at Tomok.
DAY 7: SAMOSIR ISLAND - YOGYAKARTA (JAVA)
DAY 7: SAMOSIR ISLAND - YOGYAKARTA (JAVA)
After crossing the lake to Parapat this morning you then continue by road to the new Silangit International Airport in Siborong-Borong. From here you will take the flight on to the Javan city of Yogyakarta, travelling by way of Medan. Considered to be Indonesia's cultural heart, the city lies just 30 kilometres to the south of Mount Merapi and on arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for a three-night stay.
DAY 8: YOGYAKARTA
DAY 8: YOGYAKARTA
Renowned as a centre for classic Javanese art and handicrafts, Yogyakarta is the only Indonesian royal city still ruled by a Sultan. Today's sightseeing begins with a visit to the Sultan's 18th century palace, before you move on to explore the royal pleasure gardens of the Taman Sari. Heading out of the city you'll then call on the traditional craftsmen of Kaliopak village, specialists in the production of Java's famous shadow puppets, before spending the afternoon amongst the impressive UNESCO temple complex of Prambanan.
DAY 10: YOGYAKARTA - MOUNT BROMO
DAY 10: YOGYAKARTA - MOUNT BROMO
The morning begins with a train journey through the volcanic landscapes of Java, heading east towards the town of Mojokerto, a major hub on the Yogyakarta-Surabaya mainline. On arrival you will be met off the train and driven on to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where you will stop to view the Madakaripura Waterfall, the highest in Java and the second highest in Indonesia, before continuing through the classic Javanese landscapes to Bromo.
DAY 11: MOUNT BROMO - MOUNT IJEN
DAY 11: MOUNT BROMO - MOUNT IJEN
One of Indonesia's most iconic settings, Mount Bromo provides the backdrop for this morning's, hopefully, unforgettable sunrise. Leaving the hotel early you'll travel by private jeep to the rim of Mount Penanjakan, in time to watch the dawn break across one of the most active volcanic landscapes on earth. Crossing the great Sand Sea of Laotian Pasir you'll then climb to the top of Mount Bromo, returning to the hotel later to freshen up before departing by train for Banyuwangi and the stunning Ijen Plateau.
DAY 12: MOUNT IJEN - WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK (BALI)
DAY 12: MOUNT IJEN - WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK (BALI)
The dramatic Ijen Plateau provides the setting for this morning's spectacular journey to the aqua blue waters of Mount Ijen's crater lake. Passing through plantations and villages, the 4WD transfer drops you at the start of a 90-minute trek up into a breathtaking volcanic wonderland. The views from the top are extraordinary and local sulphur miners are often a regular sight along the journey. Continuing on to Banyuwangi's port from here, you then take the short ferry ride across to the island of Bali.
DAY 13: WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK
DAY 13: WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK
A day enjoying the delights of the West Bali National Park sees you heading by boat into the calm waters off the north-west tip of the island. The uninhabited island of Menjangan offers one of the best-preserved coral reefs anywhere in the area, providing an idyllic location for a morning's snorkelling. Home to a staggering array of marine life, the island is also famed for its resident deer (after which the island is named). Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to Bali.
DAY 14: WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK - DENPASAR
DAY 14: WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK - DENPASAR
Departing the hotel after breakfast this morning you will take in some fine views of Lakes Buyan and Tamblingan (weather permitting), before enjoying a traditional canoe ride across the tranquil waters. After a visit to the important Hindu water temple of Ulun Danu, situated within the serene embrace of Lake Beratan, you will then be transferred to your hotel or to the airport for your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
D'omah Boutique Village Resort, Yogyakarta
Only a twenty-minute drive from central Yogyakarta, the D’Omah Boutique Village Resort is a four-star retreat set in beautiful gardens away from the busy streets. Located within a Javanese village, the accommodation offers rooms and villas with striking Jogya batik fabric décor and modern amenities - the perfect environment to chill, relax and savour the unmistakably Javanese-inspired ambiance. Each room and villa has easy access to one of the five swimming pools. The Café Lotus provides a truly glorious, tranquil and magical setting where you are hypnotized by the gentle water fountains and delicately formed lotus flowers. The Orchard Bar is open all day and is the perfect place to chill, read, enjoy your favourite tipple, take a cup of Java’s famous teas, savour Javanese locally produced coffee or treat yourself to a local beer. Discover Javanese healing at the day Spa offering a number or treatments and massages. There are many ways to enjoy the area from the accommodation through cooking classes, horse and carriage tours, handicraft classes, bicycle tours, temple tours and more. And if you prefer to explore further, you can discover art galleries and local markets just around the corner.
Jiwa Jawa Bromo, Mount Bromo
Designed to compliment the areas natural beauty, the four-star Jiwa Jawa is a resort which is built with environmental consciousness as a priority. The resort has a no tree cutting policy, proper waste management, and sources all of its food locally and organically. Set at 2,000 metres above sea level, the four-star resort boasts brilliant views and cool mountain weather, best enjoyed with a cup of Javanese coffee. Close to the main building is the Java Banana Gallery & Café, where the Java banana is a speciality. The Belanga restaurant, in the main building, serves a fine selection of staple Indonesian dishes alongside intercontinental favourites, all made from locally sourced fresh produce. Stay in a king size or twin bed Deluxe Room, Suite, Family Room, Executive Room or Group Lodge, all complete with modern amenities. From the accommodation, explore the surrounding ecosystems and volcanic landscapes of the Tengger Caldera area, climb Mount Bromo for sunset or sunrise, go white-water rafting or embark on a trek through the neighbouring villages. Every year the hotels own open-air amphitheatre plays host to the Jazz Gunung, a two-day music festival.
Ecolodge Bukit Lawang, Bukit Lawang
The ideal location for exploring the Leuser Ecosystem of North Sumatra, the three-star Ecolodge Bukit Lawang is a sustainable property which contributes to the conservation of the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan. The lodge donates proceeds to the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme and it serves as an outlet for the activities of the Bohorok Environmental Education Centre in order to increase awareness towards biodiversity conservation and the implementation of proper ecotourism management. From the lodge immerse yourself in the lush forests of the region in search of wild orangutans to understand why the staff work so hard to protect this region. The gardens house twelve rural-style bungalows, all with unique features such as an open-air bathroom, hand-crafted bamboo furniture, and balconies with garden views. The food served in the restaurant is collected from the eco lodge or the rainforest using sustainable and organic techniques.
Tabo Cottages, Samosir
Offering magnificent lake and mountains views, Tabo Cottages is situated on the shore of Lake Toba, Samosir and is surrounded by rice fields and plantations. The hotel is designed using natural furnishing and soft colours to compliment the lush tropical environment. Stay in a Batak villa, built in a unique traditional style with modern comforts, or in a room, some of which offer a private veranda and a half open jungle shower room. The latest rooms are situated right by the lake overlooking the spacious lawn, the playground and the picturesque mountains. The new outdoor recreational area is perfect for games, meetings and parties. The restaurant serves a range of western and Indonesian cuisine and the German Bakery has delicious treats, which it has been serving since 1994, well complimented by the Tabo’s home-roasted coffee. There are many activities you can take part in the from the hotel, including motorbiking, cycling, boating, walking and coffee touring.
Plataran Menjangan, West Bali National Park
For a luxury escape to nature, stay at the Plataran Menjangan Resort & Spa in West Bali National Park. The eco retreat ensures you are at one with nature whether you are in the midst of the forest or right by the ocean. Stay within a forest, ocean or mangrove villa, all with deep stone bathtubs and an outdoor terrace. Ocean villas boast ocean views and private plunge pools. Head to the Octagon Ocean Club to admire the view from the infinity pool before dining on fresh seafood. When the natural setting isn’t lulling you into a sense of calm and tranquillity, head to the Padma Spa, cocooned within the mangrove and facing the ocean.
JW Marriott Hotel Medan, Medan
One of Medan’s first five star hotels, the JW Marriott Hotel Medan provides luxurious amenities for business and leisure travellers alike. The best feature of the hotel is the outdoor infinity pool with city skyline views. Views of the Medan skyline also accompany a meal at one of the six on-site restaurants. The plush rooms and suites are a welcome retreat after a long flight or day of exploring the city. Pamper yourself at the Spa by Royal Amadeus or pump some iron in the gym before making use of the largest pillarless ballroom in Medan.
Grand Mutiara, Berastagi
Set atop a hill and surrounded by green gardens, the mid-range Grand Mutiara Hotel is an ideal property for experiencing the best of Berastagi. The hotel is designed with tranquillity in mind through its swimming pool, massage services and proximity to the Lau Siedebuk Debuk hot springs. Each of the guest rooms have modern amenities such as air-conditioning, a flat screen television and a mini bar. Many rooms have balconies looking out onto the lush gardens and pleasant outdoor pools, whilst some have an additional living space. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant or on the terrace before heading off on a bike ride - bikes are available to rent from the property.
Ijen Resort And Villas, Mount Ijen
Ijen Resort and Villas boasts a breath taking setting of rice fields, rainforest, volcanoes and villages. The four star property is surrounded by the scenic rainforest of Ijen National Park and terraced rice fields, with the backdrop of a towering volcano. The villas are spread across four hectares of pretty gardens, and although each room has beautiful views, the most memorable is from the infinity pool, where Mount Ijen is visible. Spend a few days here taking part in exciting activities such as trekking to the Ijen crater, safaris in Baluran National Park and plantation tours, or simply relax in this peaceful setting.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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