Java and Its Secret Islands
17 Days of Escape Between Temples and Tropical Paradises
17 Days 16 Nights
Description
Discover the very essence of Indonesia through a fascinating journey to the mythical island of Java, between wild nature, ancient spirituality and spectacular volcanic landscapes.
Your adventure begins in Ujung Kulon National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, dense jungle meets pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. You might even be lucky enough to spot the legendary Javan rhinoceros, a rare and protected species. Between forest walks, boat trips, and snorkeling, this timeless place promises total immersion in unspoiled nature.
The journey continues into the heart of Javanese culture with the discovery of the island's iconic temples. Marvel at the majesty of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, where the first rays of dawn reveal a magical panorama. Then explore Prambanan, a masterpiece of Hindu architecture, whose soaring spires tell ancient legends.
Finally, let yourself be captivated by the power of Java's volcanoes, true symbols of the island. Climbing Mount Bromo offers an unforgettable sunrise over a lunar landscape, while Kawah Ijen reveals its fascinating blue flames and its acidic lake with unreal colors.
This unique journey combines adventure, culture and magnificent landscapes, for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Java — an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and strong emotions.
The highlights
- Immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature of Ujung Kulon National Park (UNESCO)
- A paradisiacal escape to the Karimunjawa archipelago
- Discover the iconic temples: Borobudur and Prambanan
- Authentic experience in the village of Semawung
- Cultural immersion in Yogyakarta
- Volcanic Adventure at Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen
- Exploring Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Tetes Cave
- A perfect balance between adventure, culture and relaxation
ITINERARY
Day 1
Arrival in Jakarta. The driver will meet you at Jakarta Airport.
Day 2: JAKARTA – UJUNG KULON
Start your day with an early morning boat trip to Pulau Badul, a small, idyllic island located in the heart of Ujung Kulon National Park. After about an hour's boat ride, enjoy some relaxation time snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, swimming, and strolling along pristine beaches with unspoiled landscapes.
After this maritime getaway, you will be transferred directly to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest in the heart of nature.
Early the next morning, around 4:30 am, set off on a unique adventure to the island of Pulau Handeuleum. This morning hike will allow you to explore a lush jungle and observe the exceptional richness of the local flora and fauna, in a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
At the end of this exploration, return and settle comfortably into your accommodation, to fully enjoy this unique natural setting.
Night in Ujung Kulon
Day 3: EXPLORING UJUNG KULON
After breakfast, departure at 7:00 am towards the savannah of Ujung Kulon National Park. You will then board a dugout canoe for a peaceful exploration of the Cigenter River, a prime location for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.
With a bit of luck, you may spot traces of wild animals such as the Javan rhinoceros, as well as crocodiles, monitor lizards, or many species of exotic birds.
Lunch will be served on board, allowing you to fully enjoy this immersion in the heart of nature.
In the afternoon, continue by boat to Pulau Peucang Island (approximately 2.5 hours sailing time), renowned for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional coral reefs. You will have the opportunity to snorkel in this truly picture-perfect setting.
At the end of the day, departure around 4:30 pm for a hike to Karang Copong to admire a magnificent sunset over the ocean (weather permitting).
Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening in the heart of this unique natural setting.
Night in Ujung Kulon
Day 4: UJUNG KULON
After breakfast, departure at 07:00 by boat to Padang Pengembalaan, a vast savannah where you may, with a bit of luck, observe remarkable wildlife such as bantengs (wild bulls), wild boars or peacocks roaming freely.
The excursion continues towards the UNESCO World Heritage area, specifically Cibom. You will hike through lush nature towards Karang Copong, a spectacular site offering impressive panoramic views of the ocean.
During the day, enjoy a relaxing snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its rich marine life. Lunch will be served on board, in an exceptional natural setting.
At the end of the day, return to your accommodation to rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
Night in Ujung Kulon
Day 5: TRANSFER SUMUR UJUNG KULON - JAKARTA
Night in Jakarta near the train station
Day 6: TRANSFER JAKARTA – SEMARANG – JEPARA
Transfer by train or flight from Jakarta to Semarang.
Your driver will accompany you and drop you off at Jakarta train station or airport for your departure.
Upon your arrival in Semarang, you will be met by your second driver, who will take care of your overland transfer to Jepara.
Settle in and continue your program in this charming coastal town, renowned for its crafts and access to the surrounding paradise islands.
Night in Jepara
Jour 7 : TRAVERSÉE JEPARA – KARIMUNJAWA
Departure by speedboat from Jepara at 09:00 towards the Karimunjawa archipelago.
Your driver will accompany you to the Port of Kartini for boarding.
The speedboat crossing lasts approximately 2 hours and already offers you a glimpse of the turquoise waters and seascapes of this paradise destination.
Upon your arrival in Karimunjawa, settle in and begin your stay in the heart of a preserved archipelago, renowned for its white sand beaches, exceptional seabeds and peaceful atmosphere.
Night in Karimunjawa
Day 8: DIVING DAY – KARIMUNJAWA
Night in Karimunjawa
Day 9: DIVING DAY – KARIMUNJAWA
Night in Karimunjawa
Day 10: KARIMUNJAWA – JEPARA – BOROBUDUR
Departure from the Karimunjawa archipelago by speedboat at 1:00 PM towards Jepara.
After approximately 2 hours of crossing, arrival is expected around 3:00 PM at the port of Jepara.
Upon disembarking, you will be met by your driver, who will accompany you for a land transfer towards the village of Borobudur.
Settle into your accommodation near the famous temple, in a peaceful setting in the heart of Javanese culture.
Night in Borobudur
Day 11: VISIT TO BOROBUDUR – THE AUTHENTIC VILLAGE OF SEMAWUNG
In the morning, you will set off to discover one of Southeast Asia's greatest masterpieces: the Borobudur temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Located in the heart of a vast fertile plain and surrounded by the majestic volcanoes of Java – Merapi, Merbabu, Sindro and Sumbing – this impressive monument rises on a hill like a huge stone mandala.
Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Shailendra dynasty, Borobudur is a masterpiece of Javanese Buddhist architecture. The temple comprises nine superimposed levels—six square and three circular terraces—crowned by a large central stupa. Its walls are adorned with 2,672 intricately carved bas-reliefs and 504 Buddha statues. On the upper terraces, 72 openwork stupas each house a Buddha statue, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere.
Borobudur represents the cosmic vision of the mandala, a symbol of the path to enlightenment, and reflects the fascinating blend of Buddhist beliefs and local spiritual traditions of ancient Java.
Transfer to the Purworejo region for a deeply human experience in the heart of the charming village of Semawung, a peaceful village nestled near the river and surrounded by unspoiled natural landscapes. This stop offers a true immersion in everyday Javanese life, where travelers are not just visitors, but warmly welcomed guests of the villagers.
One of the most moving moments of this experience is the visit to the village school. You will have the opportunity to meet the children and teachers, share smiles, engage in simple conversations, and discover school life in a Javanese village. These spontaneous and sincere encounters often create very touching memories.
The exploration continues at a local village house with a much-loved activity: an authentic Javanese cooking class. Guided by the locals, you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh ingredients from the garden or the local market.
Overnight stay at the Joglo Semawung Guesthouse (in the middle of a unique village)
Day 12: SCHOOL VISIT – COOKING CLASS
A profoundly human experience in the heart of the charming village of Semawung, a peaceful village located near the river and surrounded by preserved natural landscapes.
This stage is a true immersion in Javanese daily life, where travelers are not just visitors, but guests warmly welcomed by the villagers.
One of the most moving moments of this experience is the visit to the village school. You will have the opportunity to meet the children and teachers, share smiles, engage in simple conversations, and discover school life in a Javanese village. These spontaneous and sincere encounters often create very touching memories.
The exploration continues at a local village house with a much-loved activity: an authentic Javanese cooking class. Guided by the locals, you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh ingredients from the garden or the local market.
Overnight stay at the Joglo Semawung Guesthouse (in the middle of a unique village)
Day 13: YOGYAKARTA – PRAMBANAN
A full day will be dedicated to exploring Yogyakarta, one of Java's most fascinating and culturally rich cities. To experience this discovery authentically, you'll travel through the city aboard a becak, the famous traditional rickshaw that winds its way peacefully through the city's bustling alleyways.
Your immersion will begin with a visit to the Kraton, the Sultan's Palace, the true historical and spiritual heart of Yogyakarta. More than just a royal residence, the Kraton is the guardian of Javanese traditions. Wandering through its elegant pavilions and tranquil courtyards, you will discover the history of local royalty, Javanese philosophy, and the refined art that characterizes this unique culture. Every day, between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m., the palace hosts traditional performances: classical dances, puppet theater, and the captivating music of the gamelan, offering a special moment to experience the artistic soul of Java.
The exploration continues with a visit to the city museum, where you'll delve deeper into the region's history and traditions. In the evening, cultural performances are also offered between 8:00 and 9:30 pm for those who wish to extend their immersion in Javanese arts.
After these visits, you will stroll through the city's old quarters. These lively alleyways are the perfect place to observe the daily life of the locals. You will have the opportunity to visit a batik workshop, where this traditional textile art is the pride of Yogyakarta. The artisans will demonstrate the delicate wax-dyeing techniques that have earned batik recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The day will continue with the discovery of typical local life sites: the bird market and the animal market, colorful and lively places where locals, traders and popular traditions mingle.
You will enjoy a step back in time with a visit to the majestic Prambanan temple. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sanjaya dynasty, Prambanan is considered the largest and most refined Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.
The site includes more than 340 temples, the three main shrines of which are dedicated to the Hindu Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The Shiva temple, the most imposing, dominates the entire complex with its slender and elegant architecture.
As you wander through the temple galleries, you can admire the magnificent bas-reliefs carved on the walls, which recount the legendary epic of the Ramayana. This great mythological story of ancient India continues to live on today in Java through traditional dance and puppet theater performances, which bring these ancestral tales to life.
A visit to Prambanan thus offers a fascinating immersion into the history, spirituality and refined art of the ancient Javanese civilization.
Return to your hotel in Yogyakarta
This day in the heart of Yogyakarta will offer you a complete immersion in the soul of Java, between royal heritage, ancestral crafts and vibrant daily life.
Overnight stay at the Duta Garden Boutique Hotel Yogyakarta or other hotel of the same category
Day 14: TRAIN TRANSFER FROM YOGYAKARTA – MOJOKERTO & BROMO
After your cultural stay in Yogyakarta, begin a new adventure across the island of Java by train heading towards East Java.
Upon your arrival in Mojokerto, your driver will meet you at the station to continue the journey to one of the most spectacular regions of Indonesia: the Mount Bromo volcano region.
The road winds through increasingly impressive landscapes as you approach the volcanic mountains. The air becomes cooler, and the atmosphere gradually changes, giving way to a unique natural setting.
A short hike from the hotel to the Bromo crater in complete serenity without many tourists.
*) si vous avez une chance, vous pouvez assister au coucher de soleil.
Overnight stay at the Lava Lodge View Hotel or another hotel in the same category
Jour 15 : LE LEVER DE SOLEIL DE BROMO – CRATERE DE BROMO – PRONOJIWO
Departure is very early at 2:30 am from your hotel to reach the heights of Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park by jeep. After approximately 45 minutes of travel through volcanic tracks, you will reach one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region to witness the sunrise.
From this vantage point, the view is breathtaking: the vast volcanic caldera unfolds before you, revealing the majestic silhouettes of the Bromo and Batok volcanoes and, in the distance, the mighty Semeru, Java's highest volcano, often crowned with a plume of smoke. At daybreak, the golden light gradually illuminates this spectacular landscape, creating an unforgettable moment.
In the heart of Mount Bromo's impressive volcanic landscape, a short hike awaits you, leading to the rim of the famous crater. After crossing the vast sea of sand, you'll arrive at the foot of the volcano, where the ascent begins via a staircase that leads to the summit. Step by step, you'll climb the stairs while enjoying spectacular views of the caldera and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The atmosphere is unique: the cool mountain breeze, the light mist, and the almost surreal scenery make you feel like you're on another planet.
Once you reach the summit, you'll discover the active crater of Mount Bromo, from which volcanic fumes sometimes escape. The panorama is breathtaking and offers an unforgettable moment to admire the power of nature and take magnificent photos.
You will then meet your jeep to return to the hotel and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast.
Continuer de transfert vers le village au pied de volcan Semeru, Pronojiwo
Nuit à l’hôtel Artha Cottage ou un autre hôtel en même catégorie
Jour 16 : CASCADE TUMPAK SEWU ET GROTTE DE TETES
Get up early, then depart by car at 5:00/5:30 AM to discover two gems nestled in the jungle of East Java. First, there's Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, one of the island's most famous waterfalls due to its breathtaking beauty. It measures approximately 120 meters high and its multi-fall design, with several streams cascading simultaneously into the valley below, makes it truly spectacular!
Continuer à visiter le voisin de Tumpak Sewu, la grotte de Tetes. C’est une grotte moins connue avec son caractère unique qui attire les aventuriers et les amoureux de la nature. Particulièrement, la grotte se trouve dans l’intérieur des petites cascades où il faut les passer pour atteindre la grotte. Ça nous permet d’une expérience combinée à la fois admirer une grotte fascinante et explorer la beauté de la cascade. Pour les deux visites, vous allez faire des petites randonnées en descendant dans la vallée et en traversant des petites rivières pour rejoindre la cascade/la grotte. N’oubliez pas de préparer des chaussures pour marcher dans l’eau, aussi le poncho imperméable et la pochette étanche pour votre smartphone.
Transfer to Ketapang, Banyuwangi
Nuit à l’hôtel Ketapang Indah Hotel ou un autre hôtel en même catégorie
Jour 17 : ASCENSION DE KAWAH IJEN – KETAPANG
Very early in the morning, we'll set off to climb Kawah Ijen, one of Java's most spectacular volcanoes. This early morning hike will allow you to reach the summit at sunrise, when the light reveals the site's full beauty. From the crater, you'll discover a vast volcanic lake with turquoise waters, considered the largest sulfuric lake in Indonesia.
Every day, sulfur miners work in impressive conditions. You can observe these courageous men carrying blocks of sulfur weighing between 60 and 125 kg on their shoulders in simple baskets, hauling them from the bottom of the crater to the top.
A one-hour drive will take you to Paltuding (1,800 m), the starting point for the climb. The hike to the summit of Kawah Ijen (2,386 m) takes approximately 1.5 hours. The best time to admire the scenery and enjoy the magical morning light is generally between 5:00 and 7:00 a.m.
After enjoying this unique natural spectacle, you descend gently back to Paltuding, then return to your hotel for breakfast and a moment of rest.
Next, transfer to Ketapang port to cross the Bali Strait by ferry. Upon arrival at Gilimanuk port, you will be met by your driver in Bali who will accompany you to your hotel in Pemuteran, located in the northwest part of the island, overlooking the calm waters of the Bali Sea.
Our Friendly Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip to Indonesia
> Encourage exchanges with the residents
Throughout this tour, you will be in regular contact with local people. Learning a few simple words in Indonesian will also be beneficial. Terima kasih (thanks), Selamat pagi (hello) or Permisi (Excuse me) is always greatly appreciated and facilitates communication. These small gestures make encounters more authentic and enriching.
> Protect yourself from the tropical sun
Indonesia has a sunny climate all year round. Remember to pack:
- A high SPF sunscreen
- A hat or a cap
- Sunglasses
- This will allow you to fully enjoy outdoor activities: hiking, cultural visits and marine excursions.
> Choose appropriate clothing
For temples and traditional villages, it is advisable to wear:
- Clothing covering the shoulders
- Trousers or skirts below the knee
- A sarong can be very useful (and is often provided on site in temples).
> Recommended footwear
Some tours include walks, hikes or wetlands (waterfalls, volcanoes).
Plan ahead:
- Comfortable shoes
- Non-slip sandals
- Possibly water shoes
> Respect for local customs
Indonesia is a welcoming country that respects traditions.
A few simple steps:
- Avoid overly visible displays of affection in villages
- Ask permission before photographing the inhabitants
- Use your right hand to give or receive
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