TRIP TO CELEBES
Toraja is a unique ethnic group in the world that celebrates the Rambu Solo ceremony. The Rambu Solo ceremony is a very important traditional ritual among the Toraja, an ethnic group living mainly in the highlands of Sulawesi, Indonesia. This ceremony is a spectacular and complex funeral ritual, intended to honor the deceased and accompany them on their journey to the afterlife. The word "Rambu Solo" can be translated as "death ceremony" or "funeral ritual".
This ceremony can take several months or even years and involves great expense. A central aspect of the ritual is the sacrifice of animals, mainly buffalo and pigs. Buffalo, in particular, are considered sacred animals and their sacrifice is symbolic of the passage of the deceased's soul into the afterlife. The number of buffalo sacrificed can vary, and this reflects the social status of the deceased's family. The more buffalo the family has to sacrifice, the more respect and honor they show the deceased. The Torajas bury their dead in tombs carved into cliffs or in caves. Some tombs can be very ornate and large, a sign of wealth and social status and great social solidarity. Before the ceremony, the bodies of the deceased may be kept in the family home in a preserved state through specific rituals, awaiting the funeral ceremony.
Ketekesu, the place to meet the root of Toraja
Ketekesu is a village in Tana Toraja, offering an impressive view of Toraja burial traditions and culture, with its unique tombs and ritual practices. It is a place of great cultural and historical importance to the Toraja and an interesting site for visitors who wish to learn more about these ancestral practices.
Ketekesu is known for its tombs carved into cliffs and rocks. These tombs are intricate structures that reflect the spiritual beliefs of the Toraja. The deceased are buried in niches carved directly into the rock or in wooden burial houses, called “Tongkonan,” which represent the family’s ancestral home.
Batu Kalimbuang, the sacred place of the ancestors
“Batu Kalimbuang” refers to a cultural concept from the Tana Toraja region, which is located on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. In this region, Batu Kalimbuang refers to a specific type of tomb or funerary monument. It is a collective tomb made up of large stones arranged in an impressive and unique way. These stones can have a particular shape and are sometimes arranged in a way that recalls natural elements, symbolizing the connection between life, death and the environment. Funeral ceremonies are very important to the Toraja, and tombs like Batu Kalimbuang are a way to pay homage to ancestors, mark a sacred space and symbolize the relationship between the living and the deceased. This heritage is a type of funerary monument in Toraja culture, where funerary practices, rituals and spiritual beliefs are deeply rooted.
Londa and Lemo, the place of the afterlife
Londa and Lemo are major historical and cultural sites located in the Tana Toraja region of Sulawesi, Indonesia. They are an ancient necropolis and burial complex of the Toraja culture, known for its rock-cut tombs and carved sarcophagi. One of the most impressive features of Londa and Lemo is the way the tombs were carved directly into the rock cliffs. These tombs were intended to honor the ancestors of Toraja families. According to Toraja culture, death is not the end, but a passage to the other world, and the deceased are always considered part of the lives of the living.
The burial caves at Londa and Lemo contain sarcophagi and human remains. The bodies of the deceased are often placed in niches dug into the cliffs, and tau-tau statues (wooden figures representing the deceased) are placed at the entrances to the tombs to watch over the souls of the deceased. These tau-tau are sometimes dressed and coiffed in traditional ways, and are often seen as a way for the spirit of the deceased to continue to be honoured and respected by their descendants.
Not only to meet the Toraja with its unique customs. In Celebes you can enjoy the very impressive destinations.
Bantimurung National Park, the kingdom of butterflies
Bantimurung National Park is located in the south of the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, in the South Sulawesi region. It is famous for its exceptional biodiversity, spectacular landscapes, waterfalls and unique geological formations. The park covers an area of approximately 43,750 hectares and is a must-see place for nature and ecotourism lovers. The most famous attraction in the park is the Bantimurung Falls, also known as the “Butterfly Palace Falls”. These impressive waterfalls are approximately 15 meters high and are surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a beautiful natural setting. The park is also known for its great biological diversity. It is often nicknamed “the butterfly kingdom” due to the presence of many species of butterflies, some of which are rare and endemic to the region.
In addition to butterflies, the park is rich in wildlife, with species such as long-tailed monkeys, civets, as well as many species of birds, reptiles and amphibians. The flora is also diverse, including tropical rainforests, medicinal plants and endemic species.
Batutumonga, the beauty on the rice terraces in Tana Toraja
Batutumonga is a village located in the Tana Toraja region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This village is particularly known for its spectacular scenery, traditional Toraja culture, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Batutumonga is located at a high altitude, which allows for stunning views of the Sa’dan Valley and the rice terraces typical of the Toraja region. The village is an excellent vantage point for observing the lush green landscapes of the surrounding mountains and cultivated fields. It is a popular location for photography, especially for capturing images of the agricultural landscapes and mountain formations.
Bira Beach, Beauty in Crystal Clear Water and Bugis-Makasar Seafaring Culture
Bira Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, located south of Makassar City. It is located in Bulukumba District on the south coast of Sulawesi Island. Bira is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful tropical scenery, making it an ideal place for beach and diving enthusiasts.
In addition to natural attractions, Bira also has an interesting local culture. Visitors can discover traditional villages and learn about the lifestyles of the locals, including traditional boat builders who make lighthouses and canoes by hand. Bira is also a good place to buy handcrafted souvenirs, such as wooden objects and traditional fabrics.
The highlights
- Discover the fascinating culture of the Toraja, one of the most unique traditions in the world.
- An immersion into the spectacular Rambu Solo funeral ceremony, an extraordinary ancestral ritual
- Visit to the traditional village of Kete Kesu, famous for its Tongkonan houses and hanging tombs
- Exploring the impressive tombs carved into the cliffs and sacred caves
- Discover Batu Kalimbuang, a sacred place steeped in history and spirituality
- An authentic encounter with local people and their preserved traditions
- Spectacular mountain landscapes and terraced rice paddies typical of Sulawesi
- Opportunity to explore local traditional markets and buffalo culture
- A destination still untouched by mass tourism
- An authentic journey through wild nature, ancestral heritage, and unique human experiences.
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 type | Ideal Capacity | Recommended 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 / Coach | 10 people or more | We 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 departure | Fees 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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)
- Recommended footwear
Some tours include walks, hikes, or walks through wetlands (waterfalls, volcanoes). Please plan accordingly:
- ✓ Comfortable shoes
- ✓ Non-slip sandals
- ✓ Possibly water shoes
- 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
