Visit to the Solo City, Royal Heritage

Solo, known as Surakarta, is a city located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is an important historical and cultural city, considered the heart of traditional Javanese culture. Solo is the seat of the Royal Court of Surakarta, one of the two main Javanese royal courts, giving it a central role in preserving Javanese traditions and culture. It is famous for its royal heritage, including the royal palaces called Kraton Surakarta. The city is the birthplace of many Javanese traditions, including gamelan music, traditional dance, and performing arts. Keris (a traditional dagger) and batiks (traditionally painted or printed textiles) are also prominent in the local culture.

Prince Mangkunegara's Palace

The palace of Prince Mangkunegara, known as Pura Mangkunegaran, is one of the historical gems of Surakarta, in the heart of Central Java. Founded in the 18th century by Prince Mangkunegara I, this royal palace bears witness to the history and refinement of the Javanese court. Its architecture harmoniously blends Javanese traditions with European influences, while its elegant pavilions, courtyards, and exquisite ornamentation offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of the princely family. A visit also provides the opportunity to discover a significant collection of royal artifacts, traditional weapons, textiles, and objects related to Javanese culture.

Beyond its architecture, Pura Mangkunegaran is a true center for the transmission of Javanese culture. Depending on the day and the occasion, visitors can experience gamelan performances, traditional dances, and various ceremonies that keep court traditions alive. A stroll through the palace offers a cultural experience that goes far beyond a mere historical tour, providing insight into the significance of Javanese arts, customs, and philosophy within the life of the royal community. It is a must-visit destination for travelers wishing to discover the cultural heritage of Surakarta and the elegance of Javanese civilization.

Pasar Gedhe Market

Pasar Gede is a traditional market located in Solo, Surakarta. This market is an important cultural and economic landmark for the city and its surrounding areas. Pasar Gede is famous for its Dutch architecture, built in the 1930s. The building has typical colonial architecture features, with a brick structure and vaulted ceilings. The market offers a wide range of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, traditional food products, textile items, and handicraft souvenirs. It is a great place to discover local culinary specialties and buy fresh produce.

The antique market

Triwindu Antique Market (Pasar Antik Triwindu) is one of the most famous antique markets in Solo (or Surakarta), Central Java, Indonesia. It is located in a quiet and picturesque part of the city and is renowned for its antiques and cultural artifacts, attracting history buffs and collectors alike. Triwindu Market is located in the center of Solo, about 300 m from Prince Mangkunegara Palace. It is an easily accessible place, and an integral part of the Solo tourist experience. It features wooden carvings, bronze statues, ancient ceramics, religious artifacts (including Buddhist and Hindu statues), traditional furniture, batik fabrics, and traditional Javanese musical instruments.

Radya Pustaka Museum

The Radya Pustaka Museum (or Radya Pustaka Museum) is one of the oldest and most important museums in Solo (Surakarta), located in the province of Central Java, Indonesia. Founded in 1890, the museum offers valuable insight into the history, culture, and traditions of the Solo and Java region. It is often considered a must-see for those who want to learn more about the historical and cultural heritage of Central Java. The museum was founded by Sultan Pakubuwono X of Solo in 1890, making it one of the oldest museums in Indonesia. Its name, "Radya Pustaka", literally means "royal library" or "public library", and it was originally designed to preserve artifacts and archives related to Javanese culture.

Kemuning tea plantation

Kemuning Plantation (or Kebun Kemuning) is located in the Central Java region, near the city of Solo (Surakarta), Indonesia. This plantation is best known for its tea and aromatic plant production, offering visitors an immersive experience in the cultivation of these traditional plantations. Kemuning Plantation is located on the slopes of Mount Lawu, an active mountain located between the provinces of Central Java and East Java. The area is known for its lush green landscapes and cool climate due to its high altitude. It is located approximately 20 km north of Solo, and is easily accessible by road. The plantation is particularly known for its teas, especially green and black tea, grown in the Kemuning Hills. The area's cool and humid climate is ideal for growing high-quality tea.

Sukuh Erotic Temple

Sukuh Temple (or Candi Sukuh) is a Hindu temple located on the slopes of Mount Lawu, about 35 km north of Solo, in the province of Central Java, Indonesia. This temple is notable not only for its unique architecture, but also for its erotic sculptures that make it a very special and mysterious site in the religious and archaeological landscape of Indonesia. Sukuh Temple was built during the Majapahit period in the 15th century, a time marked by the height of the Majapahit Empire in Java. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to the worship of Shiva, although some Buddhist influences are also present in its design. The site was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Dutch researchers and has since been the subject of numerous archaeological studies.

Cetho temple

Cetho Temple (Candi Cetho) is a Hindu temple located in Central Java province, on the slopes of Mount Lawu, about 30 km from Solo (Surakarta). It is one of the most interesting and mystical temples in the region, due to its elevated location, unique architecture, and spiritual ambiance. The temple is primarily associated with the worship of Shiva, but it also features elements of other local spiritual traditions. Cetho Temple probably dates from the Majapahit period (between the 14th and 15th centuries), although more recent studies suggest it may be even older. It is an active Hindu site that has been partially restored since the 1980s. The temple is located at an altitude of about 1,400 meters on Mount Lawu, giving it a cool, misty environment, with spectacular views of the valley below.

Jumog Waterfall

Jumog Waterfall (or Air Terjun Jumog) is a beautiful waterfall located in the Central Java region, about 30 km south of Solo (Surakarta), near the city of Karanganyar. This waterfall is one of the most popular natural attractions in the region, attracting both nature lovers, hikers and those looking for a peaceful place to relax.

Grojogan Sewu Waterfall

Grojogan Sewu Waterfall located in Tawangmangu region, about 27 km from Solo (Surakarta), near Mount Lawu. It is known for its impressive height and beautiful natural setting. The name “Grojogan Sewu” translates to “a thousand waterfalls”, due to the appearance of the waterfall which seems to split into several smaller falls as the water flows down the rocks. Grojogan Sewu Waterfall is about 81 meters high, making it one of the largest waterfalls in Central Java. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and tropical vegetation, adding to the beauty of the place. The site is often shrouded in mist, which enhances the mystical and refreshing aspect of the waterfall.

Terraced vegetable farming in Tawangmangu

Tawangmangu Terraced Vegetable Farming is one of the major natural attractions in the Tawangmangu area, located at the foot of Mount Lawu in Central Java province, about 27 km from Solo (Surakarta). This spectacular agricultural landscape is a typical example of the rice terraces that are common in many mountainous areas of Java. These rice terraces are not only a stunning visual spectacle, but also reflect the relationship between local people and their natural environment.

The Botanical Garden and Essential Oil

Tawangmangu Botanical Garden and Atsiri Essential Oil are two important attractions in the Tawangmangu region of Central Java, which showcase the richness of local biodiversity as well as the use of medicinal and aromatic plants. Both are essential for those interested in nature, botany and traditions of the region. Tawangmangu Botanical Garden is located at an altitude of 1,100 meters on the slopes of Mount Lawu, offering a cool and pleasant climate. This garden is a true haven of peace, surrounded by green landscapes, tropical forests and picturesque valleys. It covers a large area and is designed to preserve and study local biodiversity, especially endemic plants of the region. Book now and let the city of Solo seduce you!

The highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the heart of Javanese culture through royal heritage, traditions, gamelan, batik, and traditional arts.
  • Visit the magnificent Pura Mangkunegaran Palace and discover the elegance of the royal court, as well as its historical and cultural collections.
  • Explore the traditional markets of Solo, featuring local specialties, handicrafts, batik, antiques, and objects that reflect the rich Javanese heritage.
  • Discover the mystical temples of Sukuh and Cetho on the slopes of Mount Lawu, in a cool and spectacular setting.
  • Escape into the natural landscapes of Tawangmangu, amidst tea plantations, waterfalls, terraced fields, and botanical gardens at the foot of Mount Lawu.

OUR GUARANTEES

Local Expertise

Tailor-Made Experience

Secure Payment

Responsible Commitment

When to Leave?

The best time to travel is during the following months:

Rates start at €1,580, based on a minimum of 4 people during the standard season.

The rate is per person and subject to availability. We will send you a personalized quote with the fixed price. This rate may vary based on several factors (number of participants, travel dates and hotel availability, vehicle size, guide specifications, and service levels).

If you are interested in this itinerary and the price indicated does not correspond to your budget, we can customize the quote according to your wishes.

General Terms and Conditions

  • Starting price: From 1.580 € per person, on a basis of 4 participants in the low season (and subject to availability).
  • Custom made : The final price is calculated per person. We will send you a personalized quote with a fixed price.
  • Factors of variation: The final price may vary depending on several factors:

✓ The exact number of participants.
✓ The travel period (high/low season, school holidays).
✓  Hotel availability and category.
✓ The type of vehicle required.
✓ The guide's specialization and the overall quality of the services.

The price includes

  • Accommodation: Overnight stays in the hotels mentioned in the program, with breakfasts included.
  • Private transport: A private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver throughout the stay.
  • Accompaniement : A local guide (English or French speaking, depending on your choice) throughout the stay.
  • Visits: Entrance tickets for the sites, monuments and all activities mentioned in the program.
  • Transfers: All land and sea transport (connections between the islands).
  • Equipment: The equipment needed for the planned activities (snorkeling, mountain biking, rafting, etc.).
  • Assistance: An emergency number is available. 24/7.

The price does not include

  • Flights: International flights and domestic (internal) flights.
  • Formalities & Insurance: The tourist visa must be paid for upon your arrival in Indonesia (approximately 500,000 IDR / ~€33 per person) as well as your personal travel insurance.
  • Meal : Lunches and dinners not explicitly mentioned in the program.
  • Extras: Optional activities and personal expenses.
  • Tips: Expect to pay approximately €10 to €20 per couple and per day (recommended for the driver and guide).
  • Modifications: Any change to the program or itinerary initiated by you.
  • Any service not mentioned in the "The price includes" section.

Supervision and Support

For your comfort, we offer different levels of support depending on the stage of your trip:

Private drivers (Logistics)

They handle the logistics of your stay. They know the routes perfectly and drop you off directly at the different sites.

  • Language: They speak basic English (generally not French).
  • Role: They are happy to share anecdotes about their island, manage the logistics, and buy your entrance tickets. However, they do not accompany you on visits and activities, where you remain completely independent.
The guides (French-speaking or English-speaking)

They work in addition to the local drivers. They accompany you during visits and activities throughout the trip, as detailed in your itinerary.

Important note: The guides are not the drivers, they are two separate people.

Local specialist guides (On site)
  • At major sites(e.g., Borobudur, Prambanan, Sultan's Palace): Official local guides (English or French speaking) will explain in detail the culture, history and philosophy of the places.
  • East of Java (e.g., Mount Bromo, Kawah Ijen, Madakaripura and Tumpaksewu waterfalls): It is impossible to find local French-speaking guides on site. You will therefore be accompanied by a English-speaking local guide.
Sites open for self-guided visits (without a local guide)

Some smaller sites do not have guides on site. In this case, your driver will buy your entrance tickets and you will visit independently, at your own pace.

Transport & Vehicles

Transportation is a key element to the success of your trip. On islands like Java, Sumatra or Flores, journeys are often very long. We select spacious and comfortable vehicles to ensure your travels remain pleasant.

Vehicle typeIdeal CapacityRecommended configuration

Toyota Innova Reborn

(2.0L – 2.5L engine)

2 to 3 passengers (with guide on board)

Maximum 4 passengers (without a guide on board)

Very comfortable vehicle. Has 6 seats in the rear, configured to leave room for luggage and suitcases.

Toyota Hiace Minibus

(2.5L – 2.8L engine)

4 to 9 passengers (with guide on board)

Ideal for 6 to 7 people + 1 guide

Large space. Features 9 seats in the rear with dedicated luggage space for all passengers.
Bus / Coach10 people or moreWe provide buses for you 30 seats or 40 to 50 seats depending on the size of your group.

*) Please provide the exact number of participants so that we can best adapt your vehicle and offer you the fairest price.

Accommodation

We select our accommodations according to several categories to best suit your expectations and budget:

Guest Houses / Homestays

Our criterion is to find simple and welcoming places.

  • Services: Clean accommodation with private bathroom, garden and small terrace to enjoy nature. Some establishments have a small swimming pool ideal for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Mid-Range (Superior Category)

Establishments offering excellent value for money with more space.

  • Services: Spacious, nicely decorated, clean room with a private bathroom. You will enjoy a lovely garden, a small terrace and, for some rooms, a children's pool.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Superior Range (Charm and Authenticity)

For travellers seeking artistic details and a more typical setting.

  • Services: Spacious rooms with charming and tasteful décor, private bathrooms (sometimes open to the outdoors in harmony with nature). The hotels boast beautiful terraces overlooking magnificent gardens and are situated in prime locations. They generally feature lovely swimming pools suitable for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (4 out of 5)
Luxury Hotels

Ideal for families seeking absolute serenity or for an unforgettable honeymoon.

  • Services: Charming accommodations with exquisite artistic touches in the rooms, on the terraces, and in the bathrooms. These are often small, intimate, and welcoming establishments nestled in lush natural surroundings. They feature a magnificent swimming pool in the middle of a large garden, offering a perfect romantic setting for honeymooners.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (5 out of 5)
Hotels of International Standards (3 to 5 Stars / Resorts)

If you prefer the infrastructure of large hotel chains to local charm.

  • Services: Large complexes or resorts offering a multitude of services and facilities: huge swimming pool, large landscaped garden, sometimes even a golf course.

Please do not hesitate to let us know your specific requirements so that we can offer you the ideal establishment.

Food & Drinks

  • Breakfasts: They are almost always included and served directly by your hotels.
  • Lunches and Dinners: They are generally excluded from our packages in order to leave you free to choose where and what you want to eat, according to your desires and the type of restaurant you like.
  • Water safety: Never drink tap water or water from local springs. When hiking, water should always be treated. In town, drink only bottled water with a sealed cap.
  • At your disposal: For your comfort and safety, your driver will provide you with the following every day: bottled mineral water.

Tips

Tips are not never mandatoryHowever, they are a much-appreciated gesture of gratitude. In Indonesia, it is customary to leave one when you are satisfied with the service provided.

The amount of a tip depends on your discretion and should be in line with the local economy. Tips that are too high relative to the country's standard of living can destabilize local economies.

Indicative benchmarks:

  • In hotels: Expect to pay approximately 1 € for the porter who carries your luggage to your room. At check-out, you can leave approximately 1 € for the cleaning staff.
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver (for example: €10 for the guide / €5 for the driver), corresponds to local standards.

Important reminder: A tip is a small token of appreciation for good service. It does not replace our team's salary. Everyone involved in your trip receives a fair and fixed wage from us.

 

General Terms and Conditions of Sale (GTC)

Booking and Payment

Registration for one of the activities or a trip offered by the agency Java Exotic Tour implies full and complete acceptance of our general terms and conditions of sale.

  • Booking confirmation: Your reservation is definitively confirmed upon receipt and acceptance of a deposit representing 30% of the total amount of the trip, subject to availability.
  • Last-minute booking: If registration takes place less than 32 days before the departure date, the full price of the trip must be paid at the time of booking.
  • Payment methods: You can make your payments by international bank transfer (SWIFT/IBAN) or by credit card via a secure online payment link. A booking confirmation will be sent to you by email as soon as possible.
  • Payment of the balance (70%):
    • It can be adjusted in cash (in Euros) upon your arrival in Indonesia.
    • If you prefer to pay the balance by bank transfer, we ask that you do so upon your arrival in the country or 1 week before departure if it is a mini-tour (stay of less than one week).
  •  Important banking clauses:
    • The payment is net of fees: all bank transfer fees (sender and recipient fees) remain exclusively your responsibility.
    • The name of the bank beneficiary provided is unique. To avoid failure or rejection of your transfer, you must not change this name under any circumstances.

Cancellation Terms and Fees

If, for any reason, you are forced to cancel your trip, the refund of sums paid will be made less the following cancellation fees (calculated based on the date your notification is received):

Cancellation deadline before departureFees retained (% of the total amount of the file)

Up to 31 days

From 30 to 21 days

From 20 to 14 days

From 20 to 14 days

In less than 8 days

30 % of the total amount (equivalent to the deposit)

40 % of the total amount

50% of the total amount

75% of the total amount

100% of the total amount

Cancellation by the agency:

  • Insufficient number of participants: If the agency Java Exotic Tour If the company is forced to cancel a group departure due to a lack of participants, the decision will be made and customers will be informed as soon as possible. 20 days before departure.
  • Cases of force majeure: The agency may also cancel a departure due to exceptional and unavoidable events constituting force majeure (volcanic eruptions, civil unrest, strikes, severe weather) that could compromise the safety of participants. In these situations, participants will be reimbursed for the sums paid, less any compensation and expenses already incurred and non-refundable with service providers (such as hotels).
Reminder: Tips

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a highly appreciated gesture of gratitude in Indonesia when customers are satisfied with the service. The amount should be reasonable and in line with the local economy so as not to destabilize the country's overall standard of living.

  • At the hotel: Approximately 1 € for the baggage handler and about 1 € for the cleaning staff at the time of departure (check-out).
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver, corresponds to local standards.
  • Remuneration: Gratuities are an additional service and in no way replace the salaries of our staff. All individuals involved in our trips are properly compensated separately.
  1. Encourage interaction with the residents Throughout this tour, you will have regular contact with local people. Learning a few simple Indonesian words like "Terima kasih" (thank you), "Selamat pagi" (hello), or "Permisi" (excuse me) is always greatly appreciated and facilitates communication. These small gestures make encounters more authentic and enriching.
  2. 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 sea excursions.
  3. Choose appropriate clothing For temples and traditional villages, it is advisable to wear:
    • ✓ Clothing that covers the shoulders
    • ✓ Trousers or skirts below the knee
    • ✓ A sarong can be very useful (and is often provided on site at temples)
  4. Recommended footwear Some tours include walks, hikes, or walks through wetlands (waterfalls, volcanoes). Please plan accordingly:
    • ✓ Comfortable shoes
    • ✓ Non-slip sandals
    • ✓ Possibly water shoes
  5. Respect for local customs Indonesia is a welcoming country that respects traditions. A few simple gestures:
    • ✓ 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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