Indonesia

Bali & Lombok

Experience the Trendy Vibe of Canggu

  • Relax on its black sand beaches, popular for surfing (beginner to intermediate breaks).
  • Explore its vibrant cafe culture and trendy boutiques.
  • Enjoy sunset sessions at stylish beach clubs with DJs and live music.
  • Take yoga classes and immerse yourself in the wellness scene.
  • Discover its street art and creative atmosphere.
  • Nightlife includes a mix of relaxed bars, live music venues, and beach parties.

Discover the Beauty of Uluwatu

  • Witness the dramatic clifftop views and stunning sunsets.
  • Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple perched on a cliffside.
  • Watch a traditional Kecak dance performance at sunset.
  • Surf the world-class waves at Uluwatu's breaks (advanced surfers).
  • Explore hidden beaches and coves accessible by stairs.
  • Nightlife is more sophisticated, with upscale bars and cliffside lounges offering stunning views.

Explore Bali's Iconic Temples

  • Marvel at the sea temple of Tanah Lot, especially at sunset.
  • Cleanse your spirit at the holy water temple of Tirta Empul.
  • Visit Besakih Temple, the "Mother Temple" of Bali, on the slopes of Mount Agung.
  • Explore the serene Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on Lake Bratan.
  • Discover the unique cliffside temple of Luhur Batukaru.

Immerse Yourself in Ubud's relaxed feel

  • Wander through the lush Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
  • Discover local crafts and art in Ubud's vibrant markets and galleries.
  • Participate in yoga and meditation retreats.
  • Witness traditional Balinese dance and music performances.
  • Visit the Campuhan Ridge Walk for scenic views.

Discover the Beauty of the Nusa Islands

  • Snorkel or dive in the pristine waters around Nusa Lembongan.
  • Witness the dramatic Devil's Tears and Mushroom Bay.
  • Explore the stunning cliffs and beaches of Nusa Ceningan (Yellow Bridge).
  • Discover the rugged landscapes and viewpoints of Nusa Penida (Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong).

Explore the Diverse Gili Islands (Lombok)

  • Enjoy the lively atmosphere, snorkeling, and diving in Gili Trawangan (known for its party scene).
  • Experience the tranquility and pristine beaches of Gili Meno (quieter nightlife).
  • Relax on the laid-back shores and enjoy the local charm of Gili Air (mix of relaxed bars).
  • Cycle around the car-free islands.
  • Witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
  • Consider a boat trip for island hopping, diving and snorkeling.

Adventure and Culture in Lombok

  • Embark on a challenging multi-day trek up the majestic Mount Rinjani.
  • Discover the beautiful waterfalls of Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep.
  • Explore the unique traditions and crafts of the Sasak villages.
  • Surf the world-class waves in South Lombok (e.g., Selong Belanak - beginner/intermediate, Gerupuk - various levels, Kuta Lombok - various levels).
  • Relax on the quieter beaches of the southwest coast (e.g., Mawun, Tanjung Aan).
  • Visit the historic Pura Lingsar temple, a symbol of religious harmony.

Java & Sumatra

Discover Yogyakarta's Cultural Heritage

  • Marvel at the magnificent Borobudur Temple, especially at sunrise.
  • Explore the intricate Prambanan Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Immerse yourself in Javanese tradition at the Sultan's Palace (Kraton).
  • Wander along the vibrant Malioboro Street, known for its street art and vendors.
  • Witness a captivating Ramayana Ballet performance (seasonal).
  • Discover the art of batik making in a local workshop.
  • Explore the unique Taman Sari (Water Castle) with its underground mosque.

Experience Bandung's Nature & Style

  • Explore the volcanic crater of Tangkuban Perahu.
  • Visit the serene tea plantations surrounding the city.
  • Admire the distinct Art Deco architecture from the colonial era.
  • Enjoy the local Sundanese cuisine.
  • Experience a traditional Angklung performance at Saung Angklung Udjo.

Witness the Majesty of Mount Bromo

  • Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.
  • Hike to the rim of the active Mount Bromo crater.
  • Explore the surreal volcanic landscape of the Tengger Caldera.
  • Learn about the unique culture of the Tenggerese people.

Witness the Unique Beauty of Ijen Crater

  • Trek to the stunning turquoise crater lake.
  • Witness the ethereal "blue fire" phenomenon (burning sulfuric gas), best seen before dawn.
  • Observe the traditional sulfur miners at work.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Explore the Wonders of Lake Toba

  • Relax by the shores of the massive volcanic Lake Toba.
  • Visit Samosir Island in the middle of the lake, the heart of Batak culture.
  • Explore traditional Batak villages with their distinctive architecture.

Encounter Orangutans in Bukit Lawang

  • Trek into the Gunung Leuser National Park to see semi-wild orangutans and learn about orangutan conservation efforts.
  • Experience the lush rainforest environment.
  • Enjoy river tubing along the Bohorok River.

Discover the Culture of Padang & the Minangkabau Highlands

  • Explore the city of Padang, known for its cuisine.
  • Visit the Minangkabau highlands with their stunning landscapes.
  • See the unique "rumah gadang" traditional houses with their horn-like roofs.
  • Learn about the matrilineal Minangkabau culture.
  • Visit Bukittinggi and explore attractions like Sianok Canyon and the Japanese tunnels.

Trek Mount Kerinci & Explore Kerinci Seblat National Park

  • Consider a challenging trek up Mount Kerinci, Sumatra's highest volcano.
  • Explore the vast Kerinci Seblat National Park, home to diverse wildlife.
  • Discover hot springs and scenic lakes in the region.

Surf the Waves of the Mentawai Islands (Optional Focus)

  • Surf in the Mentawai Islands; world-renowned for their waves (Advance surfers).
  • Experience the unique indigenous culture of the Mentawai people.
  • Enjoy the remote and pristine island environment.

Komodo, Flores, & Other Islands

Explore Komodo National Park (Flores)

  • Encounter the legendary Komodo dragons on Komodo and Rinca islands.
  • Snorkel or dive in the vibrant coral reefs around islands like Kanawa and Sebayur.
  • Hike to the panoramic viewpoint on Padar Island.
  • Relax on the unique Pink Beach.
  • Explore the diverse marine life through boat trips.

Discover the Wonders of Flores

  • Witness the mystical tri-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu.
  • Explore traditional villages like Bena and Wologai with their unique architecture.
  • Hike through scenic rice paddies around Ruteng.
  • Visit the Liang Bua cave, where "hobbit" fossils were discovered.
  • Enjoy the waterfalls and hot springs in the interior.

Experience the Culture of Sumba

  • Witness the unique Pasola jousting festival (seasonal).
  • Explore traditional villages with their high-roofed houses.
  • Admire the intricate ikat textiles.
  • Visit stunning beaches and waterfalls.
  • Learn about the island's megalithic sites and ancient traditions.

Explore the Alor Archipelago for amazing diving

  • Discover world-class diving and snorkeling spots with diverse marine life.
  • Visit traditional villages and enjoy the remote and less-visited island atmosphere.
  • Explore the volcanic landscapes and hot springs.

Borneo (Kalimantan) & Papua

Explore the Orangutans of Tanjung Puting National Park (Kalimantan)

  • Take a river cruise on a traditional "klotok" boat.
  • Visit Camp Leakey, the oldest orangutan rehabilitation center.
  • Witness orangutan feedings and observe them in their natural habitat.
  • Experience the diverse wildlife of the park, including proboscis monkeys and various bird species.

Discover the Unique Culture of the Dayak People (Kalimantan)

  • Visit traditional longhouses in the interior of Kalimantan.
  • Learn about Dayak customs, rituals, and traditional crafts.
  • Experience local music and dance performances.
  • Explore local markets selling Dayak handicrafts.

Explore the Highlands of Papua (Baliem Valley)

  • Visit traditional Dani, Lani, and Yali villages.
  • Witness cultural ceremonies and traditional warfare demonstrations.
  • Hike through the stunning landscapes of the Baliem Valley.
  • Explore local markets in Wamena.

Trek to the Carstensz Pyramid (Papua) - For Experienced Mountaineers

  • Embark on a challenging expedition to the highest peak in Indonesia.
  • Experience diverse terrain, including rainforest, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
  • Requires significant planning, permits, and experienced guides.

Discover the Underwater Paradise of Raja Ampat (West Papua)

  • Explore one of the world's most biodiverse marine environments.
  • Enjoy world-class diving and snorkeling.
  • Visit stunning island landscapes with karst formations.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Indonesia - 11 Weeks

Days 1-20: Java Highlights

  • Arrive in Jakarta. Explore briefly (National Monument, Kota Tua).
  • Travel to Bandung: Explore Tangkuban Perahu, tea plantations, Art Deco architecture, Angklung performance.
  • Travel to Yogyakarta: Visit Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple. Explore the Sultan's Palace (Kraton) and Malioboro Street. Experience a Ramayana Ballet.
  • Discover batik making and the Taman Sari (Water Castle). Optional: Day trip to Dieng Plateau.
  • Travel to Mount Bromo: Witness the sunrise and hike the crater. Explore the Tengger Caldera.
  • Travel to Ijen Crater for the blue fire phenomenon.
  • Departure from Surabaya (or overland/ferry to Bali).

Days 21-42: Bali and the Gilis

  • Rent a scooter or motorcycle to move around and explore the island.
  • Explore Canggu's black sand beaches (Echo Beach, Pererenan), take surf lessons, enjoy sunset cocktails at beach clubs (Potato Head, La Favela, Old Man's), browse boutiques, enjoy cafes and diverse cuisine, experience nightlife, visit Berawa. Consider Tanah Lot Temple or a cooking class.
  • Ubud: Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces, discover art markets, see a Balinese dance, try yoga/meditation, take a cooking class, hike Campuhan Ridge Walk, visit Tirta Empul Temple. Consider waterfalls (Tegenungan, Sekumpul), Gunung Kawi Sebatu, or Elephant Cave.
  • Uluwatu & South Bali: Explore cliffs and surf breaks (Padang Padang, Bingin, Suluban, Uluwatu), visit Uluwatu Temple (Kecak dance), relax at beach clubs (Sundays, El Kabron), discover hidden beaches (Nyang Nyang, Green Bowl), explore Garuda Wisnu Kencana.
  • Visit the Nusa Islands:
    • Nusa Lembongan: Snorkeling/diving, mangrove tours, Dream Beach, Devil's Tears, Jungut Batu.
    • Nusa Ceningan: Yellow Bridge, Blue Lagoon, Secret Point Beach, Mahana Point (cliff jumping).
    • Nusa Penida: Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay (snorkeling/diving).
  • Take a ferry to the Gili Islands:
    • Gili Trawangan: Lively, snorkeling/diving, bicycles, nightlife.
    • Gili Meno: Tranquil, relaxation, great snorkeling from shore.
    • Gili Air: Laid-back, mix of lively and quiet, good snorkeling/diving.

Days 43-55: Lombok

  • Once again rent a scooter or motorcycle to move around and explore the island.
  • Consider doing the multi-day trek up Mount Rinjani (guide and gear required).
  • South Coast: Stunning beaches and surf (Kuta Lombok - beginner surf, Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, Mawun).
  • North: Waterfalls (Sendang Gile, Tiu Kelep, Benang Stokel, Benang Kelambu).
  • Inland: Lush rice paddies and a quieter pace of life.
  • Southwest: Boat trips to Secret Gilis (Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, Gili Kedis) for beaches and snorkeling.
  • West Coast: Beaches (Senggigi, Mangsit) with beautiful sunsets.
  • Explore markets in Mataram.

Days 56-65: Komodo, Flores & Nearby Islands

  • Fly to Labuan Bajo (Flores).
  • Take a Komodo National Park Boat Trip to explore different islands, see Komodo dragons, enjoy snorkeling/diving at various spots (including manta rays).
  • Padar Island: Hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and bays, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
  • Pink Beach: Snorkel or relax on the unique pink-hued sand and explore the coral reefs just offshore. Check out Manta Point for a chance to swim or snorkel with manta rays.
  • In Flores, explore the Moni & Kelimutu Lakes: Travel to Moni village and wake up early to witness the sunrise over the tri-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu, each with its unique hue.
  • Visit Bena, a well-preserved traditional Ngada village with unique ancestral houses and stone megaliths, or Wologai.
  • Hike through the scenic rice paddies surrounding Ruteng, learn about the local farming practices, and visit the "spider web" rice fields of Cara.
  • Visit Maumere the coastal town and its surrounding areas, known for its beautiful beaches and potential for snorkeling or diving on nearby islands.
  • Ikat Weaving Villages: Discover traditional ikat weaving techniques in local villages and perhaps purchase unique textiles.
  • Optional: Consider a trip to the Alor Archipelago from East Flores if interested in more remote diving and unique cultural experiences (allow extra travel time and research logistics).

Days 66-77: Sumatra

  • Fly to Medan. Travel to Bukit Lawang for orangutan encounters in Gunung Leuser National Park.
  • Travel to Lake Toba: Explore Samosir Island, Batak culture, and enjoy the lake scenery.
  • Travel to the Minangkabau Highlands (Bukittinggi) to see traditional architecture and landscapes.