Java & Bali Sacred Volcanoes of Indonesia
Eight Sacred Volcanoes Between Smoking Craters and Mysterious Blue Flames
Duration
21 days
From
€3,825/pers.
Ideal seasons
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
This unique circuit, designed for passionate volcano enthusiasts and adventure seekers, invites you to explore eight sacred volcanoes in Java and Bali. It combines intense hiking, spectacular landscapes, and cultural immersion.
You will traverse tropical forests, volcanic plateaus, sulfurous craters, and lunar landscapes, while discovering local history and traditions.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Indonésie!
Airport pickup in Yogyakarta by your guide and transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free.
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. Our city stroll takes us 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 forest, traditional villages and rice paddies.
You then visit the Prambanan Temple complex and particularly Loro Jonggrang, a magnificent temple 47 meters high 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.
Return to the hotel early or mid-evening.
Transfers 2h
Hiking 2h-2h30
Borobudur Temple
Early this morning you head towards the Menoreh hills, located about 25 km west of Yogyakarta and overlooking the Borobudur plain. You then begin an original warm-up hike through superb landscapes, and along a few ridges, which offer you an extraordinary panorama of green rice fields below and volcanoes rising on the horizon (Mt Sumbing, Mt Merapi and Mt Merbabu).
Then, in the middle of the valley rises the imposing sanctuary of Borobudur, which we visit at the end of our hike.
At the end of the visit to this monumental Buddhist sanctuary, short transfer to the slopes of Sumbing volcano, and check-in at the hotel.
Transfers 2h
Hiking 2-3h
Sumbing Volcano
Early or mid-morning, you head back towards the base camp (1 710 m) of Mount Sumbingand begin its ascent. You first cross numerous high-altitude plantations on a well-marked but already quite steep path.
At 2 665 m altitude, you reach an intersection where you can refresh yourself thanks to the numerous streams. Higher up, a beautiful section of trail winds between rocks with red hues. You finally reach the crater rim (3 300 m), where you set up camp.
- Hike 6h (round trip)
– Elevation gain + 1,600 m
Volcano Sumbing
Around 4 a.m., you begin the ascent of "Puncak Rajawali", the highest point of the volcano (3,371 m). At sunrise, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view over the entire region and the Merapi and Merbabu volcanoes, visible in the distance.
Back at camp, a quick breakfast prepared by your guide and porter awaits you. You then have the option to descend into the crater, being careful of the gases.
Mid-morning, return to base camp, then transfer to the hotel for well-deserved rest.
The afternoon is free, with the possibility of enjoying the pool or a massage.
Hiking 8-9h (round trip) –
Elevation gain +400 m / -2,000 m
Last bastion of Hinduism
Departing from Yogyakarta, an early morning transfer takes you to the Temple of Sukuh, the last bastion of Hinduism in central Java in the face of the spread of Islam. This temple is distinguished by original iconography, notably featuring phallic figures and large turtle-shaped tables, which would suggest the existence of initiatory, or even orgiastic rituals.
You then begin a hike towards the village of Tawangmangu, located on the slopes of the Lawu volcano. This trek offers the opportunity to discover certain local plant species and admire magnificent panoramas of the pine forest and high-altitude plantations. The walk ends with a crossing of Tawangmangu Park, which leads you to the spectacular Grojogan Sewu waterfall, nestled in the heart of a tropical forest populated by a large community of monkeys.
In the afternoon, transfer to Tumpang, near Malang, at the western foot of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru massif.
Hike 4h
Elevation gain: +400 m / -300m
To the Base Camp
Transfer to the Sumber Brantas base camp, located at nearly 1,700 m altitude.
After an initial briefing with your English-speaking guide, you begin the ascent of the Welirang volcano slopes following an agricultural path through carrot and potato fields. After approximately 5 hours of effort, you reach the base camp (2,570 m), where you will spend the night.
Hiking 5h
(Elevation gain: +875 m)
Welirang Volcano (3,156 m)
Late at night, you begin the ascent of Kembar 2 peak (approximately 45 minutes), from where you can enjoy a magnificent panorama over the entire Malang and Surabaya region.
Return to base camp around 7 a.m. and, after a hearty breakfast, you start the ascent of Welirang volcano via Kembar 1 peak (2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours of hiking).
Return to base camp around 1 p.m., then free time after lunch.
Hiking 4h
(Elevation gain: +600 m)
Arjuno Volcano (3,339 m)
In the middle of the night, you begin the ascent of Arjuno Volcano (approximately 4 hours) to witness a superb sunrise at the summit.
All around, you will discover shallow grassy craters as well as numerous sulfur vents; it is therefore necessary to remain vigilant and avoid inhaling the gases.
Return to base camp mid-morning, then descent towards Sumber Brantas.
In the early afternoon, transfer to the small village of Tumpang, at the foot of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru massif.
Transfers 1h30
Trek 7h (Elevation gain: +775 m / - 1,650 m)
Spectacular Mt Bromo caldera
Early in the morning, 4x4 vehicles take you to the Tengger region, where the famous Mount Bromo (2,329 m) billows its smoke in the heart of a vast caldera forming a veritable sea of sand. During the journey, you cross the remarkable forest of the Tengger-Bromo-Semeru National Park and skirt part of the caldera's ridge before descending towards the sea of sand to reach the village of Cemorolawang, located on one of the opposite ridges.
Mount Bromo is the volcano most venerated by the Hindu Tengger people, who inhabit the region.
Early in the afternoon, you begin its ascent to admire its crater, resembling an enormous smoking cauldron. One then understands why the Javanese once considered this place the entrance to purgatory.
You then continue to the summit of Mount Pananjakan (Penanjakan) (2,775 m) to witness an unforgettable spectacle: the sunset over a lunar landscape, with an unobstructed view of Mount Bromo, its sea of sand and the Semeru volcano, which release thick fumaroles. A unique moment!
Return to the hotel early in the evening.
Hiking 2h
To the east of Java
Transfer to East Java, and more precisely to the village of Kalibaru, nestled in the heart of varied plantations once exploited by Dutch colonizers. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a pleasant hike in the surroundings.
Hiking 2 hours
Raung Volcano Approach
Early departure at 6 am heading towards the village of Wonorejo. You then continue your journey on difficult, muddy terrain to post 1, located at 896 m altitude. This post, the starting point for most hikers, is nothing more than a simple warung set up in the middle of coffee plantations and run by a Madurese couple, Pak Sunarya and his wife. Slightly below, on clear days, you can enjoy a superb view of the Raung volcano.
From post 1, there are approximately 10 km in a straight line to the summit. The trail gradient is initially gentle, and you will be lulled by the beating of hornbill wings and the grunting of wild boars in the surrounding forest. You may be lucky enough to spot magnificent little indigo flycatchers.
You reach camp 2 (1,451 m) in less than two hours, then camp 3 (1,638 m) after an additional 30 minutes. Allow another 45 minutes to reach camp 4 (1,815 m).
Camp 5 (2,045 m) is 45 minutes' walk away, and similar time is needed to reach camp 6 (2,222 m), close to a seismological equipment site. Finally, you reach camp 7 (2,553 m), located on a pleasant ridge and offering the best location for two nights of bivouacking.
Allow 6 to 7 hours of walking, including breaks, to reach camp 7. The views of the Argopuro and Semeru volcanoes are splendid there, and the space is sufficient to set up at least ten tents.
Transfers 1h
Hiking 6-7h
Pic Sejati
You begin the summit ascent before 4 a.m. to make the most of daylight. After just over an hour of hiking, you reach camp 8 (2,870 m). Allow another 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach camp 9 (3,068 m), the last "camp" on the route. The trail continues through the forest, but numerous clearings offer magnificent views of Argopuro to the west and Mount Agung (Bali) to the east. You also spot, on your right, the majestic Glenmore peak (3,227 m), located 1 km east of Sejati peak, on the edge of Raung's crater.
After approximately 2 hours of hiking from camp 7, you reach the vegetation limit (3,115 m), then, five minutes later, Puncak Bendera ("flag peak", 3,139 m), marked by an Indonesian flag and offering a breathtaking panorama of volcanoes and distant villages. This is also the first observation point for the most technical sections of the trail leading to Puncak Sejati.
From Puncak Bendera, it takes approximately 3 hours to reach the summit of Sejati peak [optional], following one of Indonesia's most demanding trails. This section crosses extremely narrow ridges with sheer drops, covered in slippery scree, as well as short near-vertical sections requiring ropes, helmets and considerable nerve. After the first ridge, ropes are essential to cross a short, highly exposed rock face (approximately ten meters), considered the most difficult part of the route. You then reach Puncak 17 (3,172 m), a striking pyramid-shaped summit marked with a beacon. Two routes are possible: the direct ascent (with ropes) on the way up, then traversing the flank for the return, which is easier. A descent of about twenty meters with ropes is then necessary, before crossing another narrow ridge. Some prefer to slide on their backsides to avoid slipping on unstable stones. Two very short sections (approximately 3 m each) may require rope use. You then arrive on a vast area of sheer rocks and ravines, before heading for Puncak Tusuk Gigi ("toothpick peak", 3,315 m), a spectacular cluster of rock slabs jutting skyward. The progression is not technically difficult, but demands great caution to avoid rockfall for those following. Just before Tusuk Gigi, you must crawl through a wide gap between spaced rocks. Once this passage is crossed, you enjoy an unobstructed view of the crater rim.
Finally, just minutes away, you reach Puncak Sejati, the official highest point (3,332 m, although some guides claim 3,344 m). The view is breathtaking: Java's largest crater stretches behind you, and in clear weather, you can see Glenmore peak, the Ijen-Merapi complex and Baluran volcano to the east, Gunung Ringgit to the north and Argopuro and Semeru volcanoes to the west. Descend carefully, particularly on the crumbly cliff section where some venture for spectacular photos. The return to Puncak Bendera and the vegetation limit takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, providing relief after several hours spent in volcanic scree landscape. From there, less than 2 hours are needed to reach camp 7.
Return to Civilization
Green Crater
Early in the morning, you head back in a 4x4 towards the slopes of Kawah Ijen (meaning "green crater" in old Javanese), which you climb easily in the company of the men who extract sulfur daily from the edge of the world's largest acidic lake. These true "forced laborers" carry nearly 80 kg of ore on their backs over approximately 15 km to the processing plant! You then witness the weighing and conclusion of the various work contracts, a striking and gripping scene from your trip.
Late in the morning, transfer to Pemuteran, a small beach resort located on the northwest coast of Bali, far from the most frequented tourist areas.
4-hour hike
Relaxation in Paradise
Free morning with the possibility of renting a boat to explore the underwater depths around Mejangan Island, where one of Bali's richest marine biodiversities is concentrated. You will discover a true natural aquarium with polychromatic coral reefs. It is also here that the rare Bali starling has found refuge.
In the afternoon, transfer to the Kintamani region.
Volcano Batur
Late at night, you begin the ascent of Mount Batur. Just before sunrise, you reach the summit of the oldest crater, where you enjoy an unforgettable spectacle. You then begin the descent by skirting the adjacent craters, with a stop nearby, but at a safe distance, from the most recent and most active crater.
The day continues with a visit to the Pura Kehen temple, in Bangli. Considered one of the most venerated temples in Bali, this temple charms with its lush garden and its sanctuary with eleven "meru", which make it a major center of spirituality and tradition.
Transfer then to the village of Sidemen, on the south-eastern slopes of Agung, where you arrive late in the afternoon.
Hike 5h
Elevation gain +600m / -600m
Authentic Bali
The morning is dedicated to a lovely hike of approximately 4 hours around Sidemen, through high-altitude plantations and rice fields. During this walk, you pass by numerous hamlets, conducive to meeting the local population, and also cross an old suspension bridge. The vegetation is lush and the landscape very exotic. Hike 4 hours
Summit of the Gods
Night ascent of the Agung volcano, which it is essential to reach early in the morning to enjoy a clear view. At dawn, you reach one of the edges of the crater, at 2,850 m altitude, the true sub-peak of the volcano. The highest and most venerated mountain in Bali, Agung dominates the entire south and east of the island with its imposing silhouette, often draped in clouds and mist.
Although most maps and reference works mention an altitude of 3,142 m, some claim that the summit did not survive the 1963 eruption and that the peak now stands at only 3,014 m.
After the descent, return to Sidemen, then transfer to Sanur in the afternoon.
Hiking 7 hours
Elevation gain/loss +/- 1,200 m
Rest
Free day in Sanur, one of Bali's oldest beach resorts, which has managed to preserve its charm and elegance. Its beaches, stretching over several kilometres, are ideal for long walks by the water. The main street is full of small shops and welcoming restaurants.
Take advantage of this day as a couple or with family to relax: swimming in the pool or in the sea, Balinese massages, a walk along the beach or in the city centre...
Dinner and evening free. (Car and driver available for an additional fee)
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 & domestic flights
- Insurance & Assistance
- Visas & possible airport taxes
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary above
- Beverages, Personal Expenses & Tips
Included
- English-speaking guide
- Ground transfers in a private and air-conditioned vehicle
- B&B Accommodations
- Site entries, trekking permits and donations
- Mineral water and energy supplement during trekking days
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
Photographe des volcans et sentiers indonésiens, 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
