Java Intimate - Between Volcanoes and Paradise Beaches
Authentic Indonésie between the smoking craters of Bromo and the turquoise lagoons of Karimunjawa.
Duration
10 days
From
€995/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, groupe
The spirit of travel
This intimate circuit in Java combines the discovery of majestic volcanoes and the paradisiacal beaches of the Karimunjawa islands and offers a blend of volcanic adventure and island serenity, perfect for discovering all the natural and cultural diversity of Java and Karimunjawa.
All the more so since, around Yogyakarta, the hills offer magnificent walks towards Merapi and the famous temples of Prambanan and Borobudur, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Between spectacular volcanoes, cultural sites and paradisiacal beaches, you will be delighted!
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Java!
Surabaya → Cemorolawang
Airport pickup at Surabaya and transfer to the ridges of the Mount Bromo caldera.
Volcano Bromo
The morning is free.
In the early afternoon, you begin a lovely hike towards Mount Bromo, the most revered volcano of the Hindu Tengger people who live in the region. At its summit (after climbing 250 steps), you will be able to 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.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
4 hours of hiking
Awakening of the World & Grandiose Landscapes
In a 4x4, you reach the summit of Mount Pananjakan (2,775m) very early to witness a fabulous spectacle: the awakening of the world in a lunar landscape, with breathtaking views over Mount Bromo, its sea of sand, and the Semeru volcano, both releasing thick fumaroles. Unique!
Return then to the hotel for breakfast.
4x4s then take you towards the Malang region.
During this journey, you first cross the sand sea, also skirt part of the Bromo volcano caldera ridge, before crossing the stunning forest of Tengger-Bromo-Semeru National Park. Then, you head towards the Lumajang region, skirting the south slopes of the majestic Semeru volcano.
You then reach the Tumpak Sewu waterfall "Thousand Waterfalls" in Javanese. By descending into the gorge (via a slippery and sometimes steep path), you will indeed feel the force of these hundreds of streams plummeting over 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 as the "best aerial shot" in 2019.
And, if you also bring your camera equipment, remember to protect it from moisture.
Transfer to the Malang area at the end of the afternoon.
*
3 hours of hiking
Last bastion of Hinduism
Early morning transfer to Sukuh Temple, the last bastion of Hinduism in central Java in the face of Islam's spread. This temple presents original iconography, such as phallic figures and large turtle-shaped tables, which would reveal the existence of initiatory, even orgiastic rituals.
Then you start a hike towards the village of Tawangmangu, on the slopes of Lawu volcano. This hike is an opportunity to discover certain plant species present in this region as well as to admire superb panoramas over the pine forest and the surrounding high-altitude plantations. You will end your walk by crossing Tawangmangu park. Your first steps in the park lead you towards a superb waterfall (Grojogan Sewu) in the middle of a tropical forest inhabited by a large community of monkeys.
3 hours of hiking – Elevation gain: 400m / Elevation loss: 300m
Afternoon transfer to Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta, cultural capital
The morning is dedicated to visiting Yogyakarta (or Jogjakarta), 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 us to Taman Sari, known during the Dutch colonial empire as the "Water Palace", then to puppet and batik workshops.
Late in the morning, you head towards 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 fields. 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 performance.
Return to the hotel in early or mid-evening.
Java Rice Fields and Borobudur Temple
Early in the morning, transfer to the banks of the Kulon Progo river, where you will enjoy a pleasant rural warm-up in a small Javanese village, from which you discover the surrounding nature by bike (Dutch bike).
You will discover the Javanese countryside gently, and you will make a few stops in the surrounding villages, where you will in particular have the opportunity to observe local artisanal work.
Then, in the middle of the valley emerges the imposing sanctuary of Borobudur, which you visit at the end of our walk.
Transfer to Jepara in the late afternoon.
On the way to paradise
Early morning transfer to the port and boarding of a "speed-ferry" that takes you to the paradise represented by the Karimunjawa archipelago (2 hours journey). The rest of the day is free.
Dream Archipelago
Mid-morning, a privatized traditional boat (with crew and guide) takes you to discover the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. Multicolored coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches and the most beautiful diving sites await you!
At lunchtime, a barbecue of fresh fish grilled over coconut fire gives the fish an exceptional taste (the meal is accompanied by fruit, fresh drinks and coffee/tea). This is the opportunity to discover the fauna and flora underwater in this protected marine national park and admire exceptional panoramas until sunset.
Please note that the program is flexible and can be adapted at the last moment according to your wishes. The excursion can also be carried out by speedboat, if needed.
Zen Day
Free day. You have the opportunity to enjoy the hotel facilities, relax by the sea and kayak on the lagoon, explore the island by scooter, go diving in the surrounding area, or even taste fresh fish or lobsters barbecued by locals in the evening on the main square.
See you soon in Karimunjawa!
Free morning until the transfer to Karimunjawa port, where you board the "speed-ferry" to Jepara (2 hours).
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 above itinerary
- Beverages, Personal Expenses & Tips
- Everything not mentioned in "Inclusions"
Included
- English-speaking guide in Java
- English-speaking guide in Karimunjawa
- Ground transfers in a private and air-conditioned vehicle
- Maritime transfers to/from express ferry
- Boat Excursion to Karimunjawa
- Accommodations in B&B
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary above
- 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
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
