Indonesia Holidays
Sumatra and Java
Java Tour - 12 Night Itinerary
Observe Orangutans, trek through beautiful forests, experience the wonder of Borobudur and Java's cultural highlights
Select your Preferred Departure Date OR Default to Today's Date
Tour Route
- Singapore - 2 Nights
- Fly to Medan - 1 Night
- Jungle Lodge, Tangkahan - 1 Night
- Jungle Trek and Bukit Lawang - 1 Night
- Orangutan Trekking - 1 Night
- Jakarta - 2 Nights
- By train to Borobudur - 2 Nights
- Villages, temples, cycling adventure and Yogyakarta - 2 Nights
- Fly back to the UK, via Singapore - 0 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Spend time in Singapore before or after your journey in Indonesia
- Discover the incredible Buddhist temple at Borobudur, the largest in the world
- Stay in a jungle lodge, observing Urangatans and trekking in the forest
- Enjoy a cycling adventure through rural villages and rolling hills
- Visit Jakarta, the vibrant and fascinating the capital of Indonesia with its colonial Dutch architecture
- Take an evening culinary tour in Yogyakarta
- Enjoy a cycling tour through the foothills of Gunung Merapi, the most active volcano in Indonesia
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of departure date, route, duration, flights, cabin, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Singapore - 2 Nights
Day 1 - Fly to Singapore
Day 2 - Arrive in Singapore
Day 3 - Singapore
- Full Description
Saturday, 14 December 2024
Fly to Singapore
Depart in the evening on the overnight direct flight to Singapore.
Sunday, 15 December 2024
Arrive in Singapore
After arriving early morning, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for 2 nights. This is also the opportunity for our guide to provide you with expert local advice, explain your programme and answer any questions you may have. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and explore Singapore on your own.
Monday, 16 December 2024
Singapore
Singapore is known as the world's greenest city and easy to explore independently. Visit the botanical gardens, the famous Raffles Hotel, a local market or perhaps some of the modern and impressive malls.
Fly to Medan - 1 Night
Day 4 - Fly to Medan
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 17 December 2024
Fly to Medan
Early morning transfer to Singapore Airport for your Silk Air flight to Medan. On arrival, you will be met by our English-speaking tour guide and travel to Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, and an interesting melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Batak people living together in harmony.
Enjoy a guided city tour of Medan including a visit to Maimoon Palace. Built in 1888 by the Sultan of Deli, the former name of Medan, this beautiful palace is combines traditional elements of Malay, Islam as well as Spanish and Indian, architectural. The palace is, until present day, inhabited by the Sultan who remains a symbolic figure for the Malay community.
The tour continues to the Great Mosque, built in 1906 by the first sultan and still considered as one the most beautiful mosques in the country. The last visit is TJONG A Fie Mansion, an old Chinese house of Mr. Tjong A Fie who was a Indonesian Chinese community leader back in 1920s.
A late lunch is served at a local restaurant in Medan after which check in at the hotel for a 1-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Marriot Hotel, Medan
Sumatra - First Hotel
Enjoy refined luxury and a prime location in the city's central business district at Medan's first and only five-star international hotel. Explore the local historical or culinary sites like Istana Maimoon, Tjong A Fie, Grand Mosque and Merdeka Walk. Maintain your fitness with a workout in our 24-hour hotel gym or take an invigorating swim in our outdoor infinity pool. Savour delicious cuisines and signature drinks at a choice of restaurants, or relax in the lounge and enjoy 180-degree views of the city.
The rooms and suites are intuitively designed with plush bedding, modern technology and picturesque views of the Medan skyline.
Jungle Lodge, Tangkahan - 1 Night
Day 5 - Jungle Lodge, Tangkahan
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 18 December 2024
Jungle Lodge, Tangkahan
Depart for Tangkahan, via Binjai and Stabat, where we register at the “Gunung Leuser National Park” visitor centre before walking to the Jungle Lodge located on the other side of the river. After checking in for a 1-night stay including all meals, enjoy a 1 hour trekking with the Elephant from the lodge along the river camp; through the Jungle to the Elephant Rehabilitation Centre where you can help bathe the elephants.
Rest of the day at leisure relaxing at the lodge and have observe the cheeky Thomas Leaf Monkey in their natural surroundings, or take a refreshing dip in the clear river. Please note Jungle Lodge is basic with no hot water or
Jungle Lodge, Tangkahan
Sumatra - Basic Lodge
Experience inspiration, adventure and relaxation. Let yourself be embarked on a journey into nature and to yourself. The Jungle Lodge is located in a dreamlike location on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, nestled between the natural course of a river and untouched nature. For your own personal requirement for peace and quiet or adventure. The lush splendor of the vegetation intoxicates the senses and lets us feel the wonders of nature up close. When dusk settles over the giants of the jungle and the jungle night falls, the sounds of the jungle have a wellness effect on your body and soul.
The lodge offers two single and two double bungalows. Only natural materials were used, in the style typical of the country and with comfort. The rooms have a shower and toilet (tile fittings). Each bungalow has a large terrace and a balcony with a view of the jungle. There is also a restaurant.
Jungle Trek and Bukit Lawang - 1 Night
Day 6 - Jungle Trek and Bukit Lawang
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 19 December 2024
Jungle trek and Bukit Lawang
After breakfast, enjoy a moderate guided jungle trek, with some climbs and fun descents. Explore the forest crossing rivers and streams, looking at the natural environment and its abundant flora with trees, medicinal plants, concentrations of butterflies, monkeys and birds.
After lunch (included), travel by a local jeep to Bukit Lawang passing through plantations with mountain landscapes at the horizon. Admire beautiful sceneries of river which cross through plantations. Sometimes you will find long tail macaque plays on the river side.
Arrive in Bukit Lawang and check in to Ecolodge Bukit Lawang Cottages for a 2-night stay on a half board basis (breakfast and lunch).
Ecolodge Bukit Lawang
Sumatra - Tourist Lodge
Bukit Lawang is a peaceful village in the province of North Sumatra. The location is a main access point into the green heart of Sumatra: the Leuser Ecosystem. You will have the unique chance to view wild orangutans in a guided tour through the lush forests of the region.
Staying in the Ecolodge Bukit Lawang is not only a unique experience but also a personal statement in support of sustainable tourism. The facility provides an unprecedented opportunity to be immersed in North Sumatra’s unique rainforest environment while directly contributing to the conservation of the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan – with proceeds donated to the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme.
There is a choice of lodges, each with mosquito nets adjusted to the size of the beds, natural jungle breeze, a Garden view and bathroom with shower.
The lodge has a wonderful Kapal Bambu Restaurant where you can enjoy organic meals.
Activities include nature and birdwatching walks, trekking in the jungle, farm tours and experiencing the local communities, their culture, livelihood and traditions.
Orangutan Trekking - 1 Night
Day 7 - Orangutan Trekking
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 20 December 2024
Orangutan Trekking
Bukit Lawang at the entrance to Gunung Leuser National Park and is one of the last sanctuary of the Sumatran orangutan.
After breakfast, depart on foot for a 6 hour trek in primary Sumatra rainforest. Steep slopes and dense vegetation will bring you to the excitement of the jungle. Here you have the opportunity to see several species of indigenous flora and fauna and semi or wild Sumatran Orangutans.
After a picnic lunch continue to explore the jungle as you return to the lodge. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Ecolodge Bukit Lawang
Sumatra - Tourist Lodge
Bukit Lawang is a peaceful village in the province of North Sumatra. The location is a main access point into the green heart of Sumatra: the Leuser Ecosystem. You will have the unique chance to view wild orangutans in a guided tour through the lush forests of the region.
Staying in the Ecolodge Bukit Lawang is not only a unique experience but also a personal statement in support of sustainable tourism. The facility provides an unprecedented opportunity to be immersed in North Sumatra’s unique rainforest environment while directly contributing to the conservation of the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan – with proceeds donated to the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme.
There is a choice of lodges, each with mosquito nets adjusted to the size of the beds, natural jungle breeze, a Garden view and bathroom with shower.
The lodge has a wonderful Kapal Bambu Restaurant where you can enjoy organic meals.
Activities include nature and birdwatching walks, trekking in the jungle, farm tours and experiencing the local communities, their culture, livelihood and traditions.
Jakarta - 2 Nights
Day 8 - Fly to Jakarta
Day 9 - Guided tour of Jakarta
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 21 December 2024
Fly to Jakarta
After breakfast, transfer to Kuala Namu airport for your flight to Jakarta, Indonesia's capital city. Upon arrival in Soekarno Hatta airport in Jakarta, you will be met and transferred to The Hermitage Hotel for a 2-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Sunday, 22 December 2024
Guided tour of Jakarta
The classic sights are good for short photo stops, among them the Presidential Palace, the impressive Istiqlal Mosque, neo-gothic Jakarta Cathedral and the National Monument, known as “Monas”. From here step off the tourist trail and discover the ‘real’ Jakarta travelling by local transportation to Glodok district, Jakarta’s Chinatown. Wander through the alleys and past shop houses, observing the market-like scenes with vendors selling anything from food to worshipping goods for temple visits. Pick a number of Chinese dishes from the eateries for an included lunch, such as fried rice, noodles or rice vermicelli, or Shandong Dumplings for which Glodok district is particularly popular. Alternatively to the food from the busy stalls, you may enjoy more typical Indonesian dishes in a café nearby.
Wander along streets lined with old buildings of Dutch architecture from the colonial period towards the busy cobblestone paved Fatahillah Square that always attracts street artists, local people and tourists alike. The square boasts Museum Wayang, a comprehensive exhibition of shadow puppets form all over the country. Continue by Bajaj, a tiny and noisy three-wheeled motor vehicle, passing by Toko Merah, or “Red Shop”, the former home of a Dutch Governor to Sunda Kelapa harbour where the goods from all over the archipelago are unloaded form the massive Buginese Phinisi Schooners. With a bit of luck it may be possible to enter the belly of one of these ships and get an idea of their impressive size. Late this afternoon get a final glimpse of the old days of the city through a stroll across the intriguing antiques market of Jalan Surabaya, a favourite of locals and travellers alike. Lined with curiosities ranging from Chinese porcelain to colonial Dutch trinkets this is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon haggling with the locals.
The Hermitage, a tribute portfolio
Java - First Hotel
The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta is located in the heart of Jakarta's most prestigious district, Menteng. Located just minutes away from Jalan Sudirman and world class shopping malls, walking distance to the Antique Art Market on Jalan Surabaya and Cikini Station for easy accessibility. The 1920's art deco building is a true haven from the bustling city. The Hermitage Jakarta is a unique contrast between modern features in a historic environment.
The Hermitage Jakarta offers a variety of dining venues influenced by its 1920's colonial style building and art pieces: L’Avenue Restaurant, La Vue Rooftop Bar and Hermitage Lounge & Courtyard
There are a wide choice of room types. The deluxe rooms are elegant with a colonial design, with king bed, sofa, chair, desk, flat screen TV and air-conditioning. All rooms are equipped with an en-suite marble bathroom comes with a shower, hairdryer and luxurious Etro bath amenities.
The hotel also has a spa.
By train to Borobudur - 2 Nights
Day 10 - By train to Borobudur
Day 11 - Explore Borobudur and Candirejo
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 23 December 2024
By train to Borobudur
After an early breakfast, transfer to the railway station for a 7 hour scenic train journey to Yogyakarta, in Central Java. Travelling by train in Java is a wonderful opportunity to meet local people and is also the best way to enjoy the landscapes of West and Central Java.
On arrival at Yogyakarta station, your guide will transfer to the Plataran Heritage Borobudur for a 2-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Tuesday, 24 December 2024
Explore Borobudur and Candirejo
Wake up early in the morning to reach Borobudur before sunrise, leaving the hotel around 04:30. This is the most mystical time to see the temple.
Explore this massive temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Discover the incredible history behind its construction. Comprised of thousands of volcanic and river stone blocks, the temple was assembled entirely by human labour and took more than 75 years to complete. These days, the UNESCO Heritage site is still visible in its full glory with magnificent carvings and an unusual, yet surprisingly beautiful bulk structure.
After an unforgettable Borobudur sunrise experience, head back to the hotel for breakfast and a bit of downtime.
About midday, meet with the guide and driver for a visit to nearby Pawon and Mendut temples which are older than Borobudur. Mendut is a pyramid-shaped temple which houses three impressively carved stone statues, and Pawon temple is a simple yet beautiful monument known for its precise symmetry. Afterwards, make a stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, travel to the village of Candirejo for a taste of the local life. Start with a horse cart ride, known as a dokar, through this peaceful and architecturally charming village.
Travel along small lanes lined with traditional houses and stop to see village activities such as making cassava crackers, learn about the rotating seasonal plantations and the harvesting. Also, learn how to climb the coconut tree and take a refreshing drink from a young coconut.
Then, have the opportunity to play the gamelan, a traditional Indonesian musical instrument, using an interesting teaching method devised by the villagers accompanied with tea, coffee and a local snack. We return to the hotel in Borobudur late afternoon.
Plataran Heritage, Borobudur
Java - First Hotel
Set amidst the rice terraces of Kretek village in Magelang, Central Java and close to the Borobudur Temple, with the legendary Menoreh Hills as your backdrop, the Plataran Heritage Borobudur Hotel offers elegance and colonial charm for a uniquely enchanting base to explore this magical region.
Relax in one of the hotel’s 75 rooms and suites, combining timeless colonial style with comforts. Each room is air-conditioned, with private bathroom, bathrobe, hairdryer, FREE Wi-Fi and safe.
Public facilities include two restaurants, a swimming pool, spa, gym and rooftop bar.
Villages, temples, cycling adventure and Yogyakarta - 2 Nights
Day 12 - Villages, temples, cycling adventure and Yogyakarta
Day 13 - Guided day and evening culinary tour
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 25 December 2024
Village life, temples, cycling adventure and Yogyakarta
After breakfast, travel to Kaliurang, in the cool highlands near Mt Merapi (2,925m). The village offers magnificent views of the active volcano and dozens of ravines which have been created by molten streams of lava.
Visit Ullen Sentalu, a privately owned heritage museum offering an intriguing insight into the world of the Sultans of Solo, Yogyakarta and the Mataram Kingdom. Continue to Kalidem Village for the start of a cycling adventure.
Located near Gunung Merapi, the village offers magnificent views of the active volcano and the dozens of ravines which have been created by molten streams of lava.
From this stunning village, and with Gunung Merapi as the backdrop, set off by bike on a 15km ride, mostly downhill. Passing through the various villages and countryside, there will be plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or chat to locals. The guide will also explain the various local agricultural landscapes, such as tobacco, rice and snakeskin fruit plantations and explain the processes of growing and harvesting these native crops.
Enjoy an included lunch in a local restaurant while enjoying magnificent views of Prambanan Temple.
After lunch, drive to the huge Prambanan complex, a set of temples built in the middle of the 9th century, about 50 years after the construction of Borobudur. Very little is known about the early history of the complex, but it is thought to have been constructed to commemorate the return of a Hindu dynasty in Java. The temples lay in ruins for hundreds of years, and it was only in the 1930s that restoration began. Most of the temples within the complex have now been restored.
Transfer to Yogyakarta for a 2-night stay at the Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta on a bed and breakfast basis.
Thursday, 26 December 2024
Guided day and evening culinary tour
Enjoy a full day and evening tour today. We start with a visit to The Sultan’s Palace, also known as Kraton, it’s central to Javanese cosmology as being at the centre of the Mount Merapi and Parangtritis Beach Lines.
Continue with a 30-minute ride by becak (similar to a cyclo or trishaw) and explore the neighbouring Kauman Village built in the vicinity of the Kraton. The village is the central keeper of Islamic religion as authorised by the Sultanate. Continue to a home batik factory, attend a short demonstration of Wayang Kulit, the famous Javanese leather puppet.
Enjoy an included lunch in nearby local restaurant in Yogyakarta.
Drive to Kotagede a charming suburb of Yogyakarta famous for its traditional Javanese atmosphere and known for its silversmith workshops. Here, enjoy a leisurely bicycle tour around the area and visit a master baker’s house for a taste of Kembang Waru – a delicious type of cookie only produced in Kotagede.
Continue to the traditional market and explore this bustling Pasar, once the main market in the area. Resume the tour, arriving at the oldest mosque in Yogyakarta dating back from 1575. There, borrow a traditional Javanese costume before entering, a sign of respect to the former kings, and then explore the historical compound of the Mataram Kingdom and its Royal Cemetery.
End the visit of Kotagede with a walking tour amongst narrow laneways and discover the unique Kalang-style architecture indigenous to Kotagede – a combination of Javanese and Colonial styles.
Return to the hotel.
Early this evening, it is time to get to know more about Yogyakarta Culinary life on our included tour. Yogyakarta is full of quaint eateries that are unique to the town and popular among the locals in the evenings. Explore different types of snacks and dishes at these hidden venues on a culinary exploration of Yogyakarta on foot hopping from stall to stall to enjoy tasty street food!
The Phoenix Hotel, Yogyakarta
Java - First Hotel
The colonial style Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta is steps from Tugu Monument and close to Malioboro Street. This 5-star hotel is within close proximity of Malioboro Mall and Galeria Mall.
There are 144 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibar, FREE Wi-Fi, TV, safe, desk, hair dryer and private bathroom.
The hotel has a restaurant and two lounge bars to relax. There is also a full-service spa, outdoor pool, sauna, and a fitness centre.
Fly back to the UK, via Singapore - 0 Nights
Day 14 - Fly back to the UK
- Full Description
Friday, 27 December 2024
Departure for return flight
Transfer to New Yogyakarta International airport for your flight back to the UK, via Singapore, arriving later that day.
Price Guidelines
Season | Low Season | High Season |
---|---|---|
Travel Dates | Jan 2022 - March 2023 | 1 July - 5 Sep, 18 Dec - 31 Dec |
Room Arrangement | First | First |
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £4,272 | £4,641 |
Multiple Travellers - Own Room | £5,334 | £5,568 |
Prices are a guideline per person, for travel within the next year and booking early and are subject to availability. Please see below what is included and request a detailed quotation with a guaranteed price for your specific departure date and for Special Events, Summer, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 14 Days / 13 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Internal flights
- Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
- Breakfast everyday and meals as described on the itinerary
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Prices are per person
- Prices for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Easter on request
Speak with a Specialist
Travel Enquiries
Contact an Advisor
Stay in touch
Infuse your travels, with inspiration from our monthly newsletter.
READY - 14 DECEMBER 2024
LANDMARK TOURS - Multi-Country Itineraries
TESTIMONIALS - Happy Discerning Travellers
HONEYMOONS & CELEBRATIONS - "en Tete-a-Tete"
CHINA REPORT - July24 Pheobe & Friends backpacking
PERU HARVEST TIME - March/April/May/June, is best
WEATHER TODAY - Check the weather worldwide
TRAVEL INSURANCE essential cover including COVID