Java, Bali, Flores & Komodo: volcanoes, rites & dragons
From the fumaroles of Mount Bromo to the turquoise waters of Komodo, a journey between sacred volcanoes and ancestral dragons
Duration
21 days
From
€2,695/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, Family, groupe
The spirit of travel
Java the Gentle, bears no resemblance to any other tropical island in the world. Heir to an art and history that seep into the supernatural like its temples (Borobudur, Prambanan...), this island emerges through a landscape of rice fields dominated by around a hundred volcanic cones, as much benefactors as destroyers. You will then become aware of the power of nature at the foot of Mount Merapi, the most active volcano in Indonésie, Mount Bromo, one of the most aesthetic, and within the crater of Kawah Ijen, the most sulfurous!
You will then tread on Balinese soil, nicknamed the island of the Gods, at the pace of gentle walks and through fabulous terraced rice field landscapes, traditional villages and sacred temples.
As for Flores, one of the most preserved Indonesian islands, it offers a natural environment favourable to superb hikes. These take us to meet numerous tribes with millennial traditions. Animist practices still take place, for example, in the Kelimutu volcano region and the Ngada villages are reputed to be the most traditional on the island. Manggarai is moreover the most fertile region, where the native inhabitants once lived in vast circular houses.
You will finally end your journey with the Komodo archipelago, which offers seaside landscapes worthy of dream postcards. You will also meet the famous dragon, an enormous monitor lizard that may be one of the last survivors from the age of dinosaurs!
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Indonésie
Aéroport → Yogyakarta
Airport pick-up at Yogyakarta (or Jogjakarta) by your guide and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
In the evening, welcome dinner. An opportunity to meet your accompanying team.
Yogyakarta, Cultural Capital
The morning is dedicated to visiting Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java, and particularly the surroundings of the Sultan's Palace built in 1756, where life is pleasant. Your city tour takes you to Taman Sari, known during the Dutch colonial empire as the "Water Palace", then to puppet and batik workshops.
Late morning, you head towards the Ratu Boko Temple, perched on the hills of Gunung Kidul overlooking the Prambanan plain. You then begin a short hike to the Hindu temple of Prambanan, through forests, traditional villages and rice paddies.
You then visit the Prambanan temple complex and particularly Loro Jonggrang, a magnificent 47-meter high temple dedicated to the goddess Siva. It is considered the most elegant and stunning Hindu temple on the island of Java. Possibility (optional) to attend the Ramayana show.
Rice Fields of Java and Borobudur Temple
Early in the morning, departure for a tour to discover traditional villages around Yogyakarta, notably Kotagede and Bobung. In Kotagede, the former heart of the first kingdom of Mataram, you will stroll through small typical alleyways and will be able to observe the work of artisans specialized in silver and Javanese craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation.
Then travel to Bobung, a village renowned for its wooden mask craftsmanship, used notably in traditional Javanese dances. You will have the opportunity to exchange with the artisans and to better understand these local traditions that are still very much alive.
In the middle of the afternoon, transfer to the Borobudur temple, jewel of Indonesian heritage and the world's largest Buddhist monument, to continue your cultural immersion.
Last bastion of Hinduism
Morning transfer to the Sukuh Temple, the last bastion of Hinduism in central Java in the face of the spread of Islam. This temple features original iconography, such as phallic figures and large turtle-shaped tables, which would reveal the existence of initiatory, even orgiastic rituals.
Then you embark on a hike to the village of Tawangmangu, on the slopes of the Lawu Volcano. This hike is an opportunity to discover certain plant species present in this region but also to admire superb panoramic views of the pine forest and the surrounding highland plantations. You will conclude our walk by crossing through Tawangmangu park. Your first steps in the park lead you to a superb waterfall (Grojogan Sewu) in the middle of a tropical forest inhabited by a large community of monkeys.
4 hours of hiking – Positive elevation gain: 400m / Negative elevation gain: 300m
In the afternoon, transfer to Tumpang, around Malang, at the western foot of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru massif.
Night in homestay
Grandiose landscapes
Early morning departure towards the Lumajang region, skirting the southern slopes of the majestic Semeru volcano. We then reach "The Tumpak Sewu waterfall ("Thousand waterfalls" in Javanese).
As you descend into the gorge (via a slippery and sometimes steep path), you will indeed feel the force of these hundreds of streams that cascade down plunging more than 100m.
Viewed from above, the beauty of this waterfall seems ephemeral as the fine mist soaks everything in its path. It's no wonder then that a photo of Tumpak Sewu with Mt Semeru in the background was awarded "best aerial shot" in 2019.
And, if you also bring your camera equipment, remember to protect it against humidity.
Return to Tumpang in late afternoon.
Spectacular Mt Bromo Caldera
In the early morning, 4x4s take you to the Tengger region, where the famous Mount Bromo (2329 m) billows its plumes, and the caldera surrounding it forms a gigantic sea of sand. During this journey, you cross the stunning forest of the Tengger-Bromo-Semeru National Park, also skirting part of the rim of the Bromo volcano caldera, before descending towards the sea of sand to reach the village of Cemorolawang (located on one of the opposite ridges). Mt Bromo is the most revered by the Hindu Tengger people who live in the region. Ascent of the Bromo volcano in the afternoon. You can thus admire its crater resembling a smoking cauldron. It is then easy to understand why the Javanese once considered this place as the entrance to purgatory.
Then you reach the summit of Mount Pananjakan (Penanjakan)
(2,775 m) in order to witness a fabulous spectacle. You witness the sunset in a lunar setting, with an unobstructed view of Mount Bromo, its sea of sand, and the Semeru volcano, both releasing thick fumaroles. Unique!
Return to the hotel in the early evening.
To the east of Java
Early morning transfer to the outskirts of Kawah Ijen.
After checking in at the hotel, your guide takes you to stunning terraced rice fields from which you begin a pleasant walk through traditional villages and other plantations (fruits, spices, etc.).
Return to the hotel in late afternoon.
Green Crater
Early in the morning, you head back by 4x4 towards the slopes of Kawah Ijen. At dawn, you walk towards the edges of Kawah Ijen (meaning the "green crater") where men extract sulfur at the edge of the world's largest acidic lake.
These true sulfur laborers carry nearly 100 kg of ore on their backs over about 15 km to the processing plant! You then witness the weighing and various work contracts. A very striking and gripping image from our trip.
Late morning, transfer to Pemuteran, a small beach resort located on the northwest coast of Bali, far from tourist crowds.
Relaxation in paradise
Free day in Pemuteran (but the driver and guide remain at your disposal). Possibility to rent a boat to observe the underwater depths around Menjangan Island, where all of Bali's richest wildlife seems to have gathered.
A true multicolored aquarium awaits you in these coral reefs! It is here that the rare Bali starling has found refuge.
On the heights
Pemuteran → Belimbing
Free morning then in early afternoon you take the road to the heights of Bali. Visit along the way of Pulaki Temple, located at the foot of a cliff and inhabited by a large community of monkeys. The road that branches off towards the mountains is magnificent. Your destination, the small village of Belimbing, is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking terraced rice fields on the island.
The afternoon is then devoted to an extraordinary hike to discover the surrounding nature.
Discovering Balinese Temples
Belimbing → Ubud
This morning you head towards the south slopes of Mt Batukaru (2270m). Visit the Luhur Batukaru Temple, which emerges in a setting of lush greenery and where several "meru" with multiple roofs stand, some dating back to the 17th century, dedicated to the ancestors of the Tabanan dynasty and to local protective deities.
Transfer to Jatiluwih, a small village located in the heart of Bali's most beautiful rice fields, in the central-western part of the island. We then begin, in early afternoon, a superb trek through this veritable ocean represented by the terraced rice fields that surround us.
You head back on the road to Bedugul to visit the famous Hindu-Buddhist temple Pura Ulun Danu Bratan,. This temple appearing to float on the waters of the lake is one of the most famous in Bali. A sacred place surrounded by lush gardens dedicated to the Goddess Dewi Danau. Next, you make a brief stop at the local market.
Finally, you make your way to Ubud, the cultural capital of the Island of the Gods.
Cultural capital
Discovery day of Ubud and its surroundings. In Ubud, elegant temples and palaces with sculpted facades line the streets. During your city walk, you discover Puri Saren and the details of its wooden doors, Pura Saraswati and the refinement of its ornamentations, Pura Puseh and its splendid sculptures as well as many other museums and galleries. Another tourist curiosity of Ubud, slightly set back from the city center, is the "monkey forest" temple.
Walks and hikes outside Ubud, meanwhile, take you to places where the surrounding views are breathtaking, as the rural landscapes are so well preserved.
A family of Balinese artists welcomes you in their traditional home and offers you a meal, equally typical of Ubud, accompanied by Balinese dances.
Return to the hotel in late afternoon.
Welcome to Flores
Transfer to the airport and flight to Flores.
Welcome at Ende airport by your English-speaking guide and transfer to Moni village, at the foot of the majestic Kelimutu massif.
The 3 Lakes
Very early in the morning you take the road to the summit of Kelimutu to admire a breathtaking and almost surreal spectacle: the sunrise over the 3 crater lakes of 3 different colors.
Then you continue your journey towards the small town of Ende, stopping along the way at the fruit market in Nduaria.
After your lunch, you continue towards Penggajawa, an amazing beach with blue pebbles, then arrive at your destination for the day: Bajawa, in the highlands.
Bajawa and its region
Early departure to Watumese (approximately 30 min drive), located at the foot of the magnificent Inerie volcano (inactive). A trail through the bamboo forest leads you to the village of Pays Ngada.
Discovery of traditional houses with very high roofs. Continue your hike and visit two other villages.
Return to the vehicle via another trail (total approximately 3h30 of easy walking).
Picnic near a hot spring river at Nage.
Swimming, relaxation, and return to your hotel in Bajawa.
Ruteng
Route to Aimere where you visit the traditional palm wine distillery (Arak). Lunch in Borong and continue to the Ranamese Lake. Short walk along the lake.
Route to Ruteng located at the foot of the Ranakah volcano, which is in regular activity (eruptions several times a year). Just before arriving in Ruteng, visit the incredible terraced rice fields of Mano. Picnic lunch or restaurant meal on the way.
Check-in at the hotel and dinner at the restaurant.
Komodo Dragons
Île De Kalong → Komodo
After your breakfast you continue your sailing towards Rinca Island. The Bajo people live there in stilt houses, living exclusively on sea products. You set off on an excursion to track the famous Komodo "dragons" and other deer, monkeys, buffalo and wild horses, all in a setting where the green of the savanna blends with the blue of the creeks and bays.
Upon your return to the boat you set course for Pink Beach.
Manta rays
Komodo → Jimbaran
Early in the morning, you enjoy the relatively cool ambient temperature for a walk on the island of Komodo, from where we catch sight of the boat anchored in the turquoise waters of the bay.
Then we set course towards the famous «Manta Point», where manta rays like to get "cleaned". Opportunity to swim nearby (while maintaining a safe distance) and observe this "ballet" that represents the majestic dance of these impressive marine animals.
Then, return to Labuan Bajo and transfer to the airport. Flight to Bali and transfer to your hotel.
See you very soon in Indonésie
Jimbaran → Aéroport
Free time until transfer to the airport.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not mentioned
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal Expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Optional Activities
Included
- English-speaking guide on Flores
- All transportation according to the itinerary
- Accommodation mentioned or similar
- Daily breakfasts
- Meals mentioned in the program
- Entries to sites and national parks
- 24/7 on-site assistance
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns tourists entering Indonesia. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities of your country of residence and with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before your departure.
Passport
To enter Indonesia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa exemption for tourist stays in Indonesia. Entry requirements vary by nationality and should be verified with the Indonesian embassy or consulate of your country of residence.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Formalities on arrival
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival declaration via the official Indonesian customs and immigration portal (e-CD, Electronic Customs Declaration).
This form allows you to transmit to the authorities certain information necessary for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details and itinerary
address of first accommodation in Indonesia
declaration of goods and currency carried
A confirmation QR code may be requested when passing through customs and immigration controls.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Indonesia, except in case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case an international vaccination certificate may be required.
As a precaution, it is advisable to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies are commonly recommended for stays in Indonesia. Antimalarial treatment may also be recommended depending on the regions visited (particularly outside Bali and major cities).
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to exit the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Entry requirements by nationality
Entry conditions vary depending on nationality. Travelers should consult the Indonesian embassy or consulate of their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, find out about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the agreement detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this agreement with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A Visa on Arrival (35 USD) is required upon arrival, valid for an initial stay and extendable once. You can also obtain an e-VOA online before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Before booking, check the conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailored trip, plan between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. The archipelago allows you to combine beaches, volcanoes, jungle and culture at attractive rates.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each circuit to the travelers' profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you get the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Java
Photographer of Indonesian volcanoes and trails, based in Yogyakarta
Before drawing up an itinerary, you have to observe, walk, listen to the locals and understand the place. Only then can an adventure trip remain authentic.
— Dominic
