Indonesia is a truly unique region of the world, and Dominique C, the photographer who will guide and advise you throughout this journey, has always regarded this archipelago as a "planet within a planet"!
With its approximately 17,000 islands stretching along the famous "Ring of Fire," this nation is filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and mesmerizing light.
In fact, a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to explore its many hidden treasures.
Dominique C, a professional French photog...
Welcome at Denpasar airport (Bali) by Dominic C, followed by a short transfer to Ubud, the cultural capital of the Island of the Gods.
Enjoy free time until the welcome dinner, where you'll receive a first briefing on the itinerary of your journey.
This morning, you wake up early to take advantage of the beautiful morning light and set off to explore Ubud and its surroundings.Your first stop is the central market of Ubud , already bustling with activity at dawn.
You then head to the Sacred Monkey Forest, where you can capture shots of its playful primates, known for their mischievous interactions with visitors.
In the early afternoon, you venture into the outskirts of Ubud, meeting local communities who, despite their initial shyness, willingly engage with the camera.Before sunset, you return to Ubud, making a stop at the famous Tegalalang rice terraces, which are particularly striking to photograph between 4 and 5 PM, when the low light enhances their depth and texture.
After dinner, Dominic takes you to a vibrant Balinese dance performance, a mesmerizing spectacle of movement and color.
Before dawn, you set off for the caldera of Mount Batur to capture breathtaking sunrise shots. As the first light of day reveals the stunning volcanic landscape, you have the opportunity to descend into the 1926/27 lava flows, offering a unique chance to photograph surreal, lunar-like scenery
After this early morning photography session, you enjoy breakfast with a family of sculptors in Sebatu, where you immerse yourself in local artistry and traditions.
Next, you attend a Balinese dance performance accompanied by a gamelan orchestra, allowing you to photograph the graceful dancers and talented musicians in their colorful traditional attire.
On the way back to Ubud, depending on the time, there is a possibility to stop at the Gunung Kawi and Tirta Empul temples, two of Bali’s most sacred and picturesque sites.
Early morning transfer to the beautifully designed Kehen Temple, nestled in the Bangli region. Still relatively undiscovered by tourists, this temple is nonetheless considered one of Bali’s most revered sacred sites, offering a serene and intimate photography experience.
You then continue your journey eastward along a scenic route skirting the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano.Your destination is Sidemen, a charming traditional village tucked away in a narrow valley facing this towering “mountain of fire.” As the day draws to a close, you’ll be able to capture the breathtaking golden light that bathes the lush rice terraces and surrounding landscapes.
Your morning is dedicated to a delightful walk through traditional villages and rice fields, immersing yourself in the heart of Balinese rural life and culture.Along the way, you’ll make several courtesy stops, allowing you to observe and engage with local customs, capturing authentic moments of daily life.In the afternoon, transfer to the surroundings of Tanah Lot, Bali’s iconic sea temple.
Here, as the sun sets, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to photograph this spectacular site, silhouetted against the glowing horizon—a breathtaking scene that truly embodies the island’s mystical charm.
Your final day in Bali is dedicated to a photography session on a nearby beach or amidst the surrounding rice fields.
Accompanied by elegant Balinese models dressed in traditional attire, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to enhance your shots with authentic cultural elements.
Transfers to Denpasar International Airport in the afternoon and flight to Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java.
The morning is dedicated to exploring the city, starting with the bustling Bringharjo central market along the famous Malioboro Avenue.You then visit the Sultan’s Palace, where staff still proudly wear traditional attire, preserving the heritage of a bygone era.
In the afternoon, you head south towards the beaches for a sunset photography session, particularly on the renowned Parangtritis, affectionately nicknamed "Paris" by the locals.
Early morning departure to the slopes of the majestic Merapi volcano. You will explore the lava flows from 2010, 1994, and 1998. The day is dedicated to this "God," both revered and feared by the locals, as its eruptions can be both devastating and life-giving (they make the land highly fertile, allowing up to three rice harvests per year).
The Babadan volcanology station is the final stop of the day, where, at sunset (weather permitting), the light paints the volcano’s gray slopes with rare orange hues.
Transfer course in the vicinity of the Borobudur temple.
At sunrise, Dominique takes you to capture breathtaking morning shots of the Borobudur sanctuary. From the ridges of Punthuk Setumbu Hill, you’ll have the perfect vantage point for stunning compositions.
Later in the morning, other picturesque spots in the area will be suggested before visiting the iconic Borobudur temple. In the afternoon, explore the surroundings of Mount Sumbing and enjoy a scenic walk to a forgotten gem—Selogriyo.
At dawn, set off to capture stunning shots of Mount Sumbing's summit and the surrounding volcanoes, Merbabu and Merapi, from the village of Mampang. Perched at over 1,500 meters in altitude, this vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views, and on a clear day, you can even glimpse Yogyakarta, more than 60 km away.
Later, head toward the Ambarawa region and the marshy Rawapening Lake . After settling into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the lake’s surroundings, where you’ll witness fascinating local activities, such as mud harvesting—later transformed into natural fertilizer. This immersive experience provides a unique insight into the daily lives of the lake’s inhabitants, from traditional fishing techniques to their resourceful use of the land and water.
Early in the morning, take a short transfer to the Gedung Songo temples where a breathtaking panorama over the Ambarawa Valley awaits. If the weather is not ideal (such as morning fog), you'll return to the shores of Rawapening Lake for a captivating photo session with local fishermen.
In the afternoon, transfer to the coastal town of Jepara.
Free time until your transfer to the port, where you'll board a fast ferry. After a two-hour journey at sea, you’ll arrive at a true traveler’s paradise—an archipelago of 27 islands, each more stunning than the last. The rest of the day is at your leisure. You may choose to rent a scooter to explore the main island or set off in search of hidden beaches.
A full day exploring the archipelago by traditional boat: discover deserted, idyllic islands like Gleyang, dive into stunning snorkeling spots, and visit marine farms where you’ll have the unique opportunity to swim with harmless blacktip sharks. Return to the hotel after a breath- taking sunset.
Day at leisure.
Free morning until transfers to Karimunjawa port, where you’ll take a speed-boat and set sail for Jepara (2h).
Afterwards transfers to Semarang airport. End of services.