Best of Java & Sumatra

Welcome to Sumatra! Arrive at anytime.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

No better way to start your Sumatra adventure then a day tour of the biggest city on the island, Medan. Visit the important landmarks, starting at the biggest mosque on the entire island, Al-Mashun Great Mosque. From there, walk to the grand 30-room Maimun Palace. Drive to Vihara Gunung Timur Temple and admire the classic Chinese architecture. Then continue walking through Pajak Ikan Lama historic market before heading to lunch. Together we'll eat like the locals at a Padang restaurant. After lunch and a day of exploring, drive to Bukit Lawang and check into your hotel.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Grand mosque of Medan, Al-Mashun. Built in the early 1900's, this beautiful mosque is a mix of Middle Eastern, Spanish and Indian architecture. It was part of the Maimun Palace complex, so after visiting the mosque, walk to the palace and explore the property built by to the sultan of Deli in the year 1888 with Malay, Mogul and Italian influences.

ACTIVITY: Visit the beautiful Vihara Gunung Timur. This Chinese temple is the largest in the city of Medan and on the island of Sumatra. This temple was built in the 1962 and dedicated to Dongyue Dadi. Enjoy your visit and admire the classic Chinese architecture.

ACTIVITY: Visit the "historical jewel in Medan," a 35-room, 2-story mansion built in 1895. It is a registered historical landmark as well as a cultural heritage building and museum.

ACTIVITY: Fill up on an amazing lunch as the locals do in West Sumatra. We'll sit down together for a delicious Padang style meal, where our host will serve a large number of small platters of different dishes. The charm of Padang cuisine lies not only in its range of dishes but also in its serving style, called hidang. Diners are charged only for the platters that have been eaten from; untouched platters are taken away and served to other guests.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Today, head off to trek through Gunung Leuser National Park. Sumatra is one of only two islands in the entire world where you can find orangutans in the wild. Enjoy a moderate hike through the largest national park in Indonesia in search of these and other amazing animals. After working up a sweat, cool off while tubing down the river back to the starting point. This evening, join a local cooking class to make traditional cuisine from the Batak Ethnic group.

ACTIVITY: Wander through the jungle of this large national park home to endangered tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, and orangutans. While your chances of spotting one of these elusive animals may be slim, there are plenty of primates and birds hanging around, especially orangutans. So keep your eyes peeled! The trek is easy to moderate and suitable for all hiking levels. After the 2.5-3 hour hike, enjoy 45 minutes of river tubing.

ACTIVITY: Take a becak to a local cooking class for dinner. Learn to make famous dishes from the Batak ethnic group in North Sumatra like flavorful fish stew or aromatic rendang chicken and acar campur, a local pickled vegetable salad.

Drive from Bukit Lawang to Berastagi and enjoy the scenic ride with stops at Gundaling Hill and a local fruit market. After checking into the hotel, drive to Sibayak Hot Spring for some much deserved time to relax in the volcanic hot spring.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Relax in the hot springs of Mount Sibayak volcano and admire the stunning surroundings.

After breakfast, drive to Dokan Village to visit the Batak ethnic group. The Batak people are from North Sumatra, especially around Lake Toba and have been here for hundreds of year. Take a tour of the beautiful and unique village. Then continue to the breathtaking Sipiso Piso Waterfall on the way to Parapat Harbor. Load into the ferry and cross Toba Lake to arrive to the large volcanic island in the middle of the lake, Samosir Island, for the night. Settle into your hotel, then join your group for dinner together.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the traditional Karo Batak Village, Dokan Village. The Karo ethnic group of the Batak people are known for the exceptional conservation of their traditions and culture, more so than other Batak groups. Follow your CEO on a tour to see their unique stilted homes, learn about the Karo culture and have the opportunity to meet and talk with the locals.

ACTIVITY: Admire this stunning plunge waterfall, formed from an underground river. Grab your camera to capture the incredibly green surroundings, rock faces and beautiful plummeting waterfall.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.

Explore the cultural side of Samosir Island with visits to two of the more prominent Batak villages, Tomok and Ambarita. Visit the Tombs of Tomok and learn about the legend of the king. Explore the breathtaking architecture and unique way of life during a tour and dance performance in Amberita Village. In the afternoon, we'll take a ferry back to Parapat Harbor and then drive back to Medan for a free evening.

ACTIVITY: Take a trip back in time and visit the tomb of King Sidabutar in Tomok, a local Toba Batak Village. The Toba are the largest of the Batak ethnic group today. Learn more about their history, and the legend of the king. See the monument's ornate carvings, and visit others close by, including another royal tomb said to be used as a fertility shrine.

ACTIVITY: Explore the amazing Ambarita Village, and wander through the traditional Batak tongkonan houses with roofs the shape of boats. You'll see beautifully carved wooden structures, unique stone furniture and have the chance to see their traditional Batak dance performance.

TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Depart Medan and fly southbound to Jakarta. Get settled in and explore the city with your CEO.

Explore the capital city of Indonesia's 17,000+ islands. Today in this bustling metropolis, we'll visit Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in all of Southeast Asia, the neo-Gothic Jakarta Cathedral, and the cobble stoned colonial Kota Tua Old Town. Explore Sunda Kelapa Harbor and the historic pinisi ships. After a full day of adventure, head out for dinner along Sabang street at a local warung (local Indonesian restaurant).

ACTIVITY: Visit the largest mosque in all of Southeast Asia, the Istiqlal Mosque. This national mosque of Indonesia was built to commemorate Indonesian independence and named "Istiqlal", an Arabic word for "independence."

ACTIVITY: Admire the impressive stained-glass windows, intricate sculptures, and the grand altar as you learn about the country’s Christian history and the harmony between different faiths in Jakarta.

ACTIVITY: Follow your CEO on a tour of Kota Tua, Jakarta's original downtown. Lined with Dutch Colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, this area was also known as Old Batavia during the 17th century. Visit a modern Javanese herbal cafe and try the historic Jamu drink. Indonesia's traditional herbal drink Jamu is losing popularity among young people, who find its bitter taste and old-fashioned image unappealing. With the rise of modern beverages and global drink trends, Jamu is often seen as a drink of the past. Cafes around Jakarta are working to change this narrative by reimagining Jamu for a new generation, using modern brewing methods, unique flavor combinations, and sleek presentation to make this traditional drink appealing and relevant once again.

ACTIVITY: Visit Sunda Kelapa Harbor - a historic port that has been in operation for centuries. It’s the perfect spot to see traditional wooden schooners, or "pinisi" ships, still in use today. You’ll be able to take in the lively atmosphere of the harbor, as merchants and fishermen go about their work, offering a unique insight into the life of Jakarta’s maritime culture.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy dinner like the locals on Sabang Street, Jakarta's culinary center. We'll find a fun warung, local Indonesian restaurant, and try traditional meals like Lontong Sayur (rice cake with veggies and coconut milk broth), Ketoprak (a veggie dish with a splash of peanut sauce), or Gado-gado (local salad with peanut sauce dressing).

Travel southeast towards Bandung, another major city in West Java. After arriving, sit down for a traditional Sundanese lunch, eaten family-style. Explore this historic city & Indonesia's natural heritage with time to visit the Geological Museum of Bandung. We'll drive to Gedung Sate for a photo stop on our way to visit Jalan Asia Afrika for some free time to explore.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: The Sundanese, one of Indonesia's largest ethnic groups, bring their rich cultural heritage to the table. Enjoy signature dishes, served family style, like nasi timbel (banana leaf-wrapped rice), karedok (raw vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and ikan bakar (grilled fish). Enjoy the freshness, light flavors and aromatic herbs celebrating the region's natural bounty.

ACTIVITY: Visit to the Geological Museum of Bandung. Exploring exhibits on fossils, minerals, and geological history, offering a fascinating insight into Indonesia's natural heritage.

ACTIVITY: Drive to visit the beautiful Dutch architecture of Gedung Sate.

ACTIVITY: Walk along Jalan Asia Afrika and do some shopping along the row of white columns. Admire the classic Dutch colonial architecture as it starts to turn pink and orange at sunset.

Today is a free day to explore Bandung however you'd like. Choose to explore the vibrant city or stay active with a visit to Tangkuban Prahu volcano or Kawah Putih crater for some easy hiking. Combo that with a visit to a local tea plantation for lunch and a tea tasting.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a full day to explore the city of Bandung.

Depart Bandung this morning and drive to Semarang to arrive in the early afternoon. Explore the sights of the city like Greja Blenduk and Lawang Sewu for the charming Dutch architecture. Visit Sam Poo Kong Temple, a historic Chinese temple, and Kota Lama, the historic downtown of Semarang. Save room after lunch as you will try the local favorite, Lumpia, a delicious Javanese spring roll.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Take a walking tour of the historic downtown of Semarang Kota Lama. This area is known for its charming colonial-era buildings and old streets. You can stop by some iconic spots such as the Semarang City Hall, Café Taman Sari and Greja Blenduk, one of the oldest churches in Semarang.

ACTIVITY: Visit the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, originally built in the early 1400's. This temple was established by Chinese Muslim explorer Cheng Ho. The original temple was a cave the explorer found on one of his expeditions, but after an avalanche in the 18th century, the current temple was reconstructed in a cave next door.

ACTIVITY: Explore this colonial-era building with its grand architecture and fascinating history. It was originally built by the Dutch East Indies Railway company, and nowadays is said to be haunted due to the tragic activities that took place here in the 20th century.

Leave the city behind and head into the central Java mountains today. The first stop today will be to Gedong Songo Temple, on the slopes of Mount Ungaran. This beautiful Hindu temple is perched on the mountain in solitude surrounded by nothing but forests. After some time to explore and take photos, we'll visit the Ambarawa Train Museum, where 21 historic locomotives still reside in Java today. Make your way to Wonosobo in the Dieng Plateau region and enjoy a free evening.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the stunning Gedong Songo Temple, nestled on the slopes of Mount Ungaran. This beautiful site is so peaceful and the stone carvings are extremely impressive. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about Java's ancient history and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Take a walk around the temple grounds and enjoy the incredible views of Sindoro and Sumbing mountains.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Ambarawa Railway Museum which preserves 21 steam locomotives, with four still operational. Historic furniture, telephones, train signals and bells are also part of the collection that reveal exciting stories about old Java adventures.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit the breathtaking Dieng Plateau and enjoy the day to explore with your CEO as your guide! We'll see the sights like the colorful Telaga Warna Lake, misty Arjuna Temple and sulphurous Si Kidang Crater. After an adventurous day in nature, spend the evening in Wonosobo town square, where the locals gather to see what the evening food vendors are selling.

ACTIVITY: A visit to Dieng Plateau takes you to a high-altitude wonderland, known for its cool climate, volcanic craters, and ancient temples. Located in Central Java, the plateau features stunning natural landscapes, including colorful sulfur lakes and geothermal vents. Alongside your CEO, explore the historic temples, enjoy the breathtaking views, and experience the unique cultural and natural beauty of this serene, highland destination.

ACTIVITY: Explore Wonosobo town square with your CEO. This is where locals gather and hang out after a long day. The northern part of this town square is famous for its snacks and food vendors (a must-try dish is called Serabi). Older ladies are always found there cooking their snacks using traditional cooking utensils called “anglo.” Serabi is a traditional Balinese–Javanese snack, similar to a pancake, made of a rice flour-based batter with coconut milk or coconut.

On the way to Yogyakarta, make a pit stop at the spectacular Selogriyo Temple, a gorgeous Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess of Fertility in central Java. Enjoy the uphill scenic walk through the complex. Then head to Yogyakarta.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the small, hidden Hindu temple complex dated from the 9th century, Selogriyo. Located in a small village in the city of Magelang, explore the village and lush rice paddies with your local guide. You're welcome to get a little muddy in the rice fields or stay clean on the small street.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

There's so much to discover in Yogyakarta today! Explore some Javanese temples, bike to rice paddies on the outskirts of the city, or go for a foodie tour and try street food like gudeg (curry made from unripe jackfruit).

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Get out and explore Yogyakarta and its surrounding attractions.

Visit Candirejo Village on the way to Magelang today. Accompanied by a local guide, learn more about this village and why its known as a symbol of Javanese culture. Here you will gain more insight into daily activities, the multiple-crop farming system, and their traditions. After a delicious local lunch, drive to Magelang for the night.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit Candirejo, a captivating village sitting among vibrant green fields. Meet friendly residents, and learn all about ancient traditions and Javanese culture. This community directly supports women’s empowerment in the Candirejo Ecotourism Village Development. Women play a central role in the home industry sector, which we have a chance to see on this visit. Take home the perfect souvenir — homemade handicrafts and furniture can be found here, including wonderful pieces made of bamboo made by the local women's initiative.

We'll rise before the sun today in order to catch a beautiful sunrise atop Setumbu Hill. This easy hike will bring you above the early morning fog for a gorgeous view of the jungly temple topped mountains. After descending, return to the village for an easy biking tour to see its beautiful sites like Borobudur Temple and the traditional market. This evening, drive to Solo.

ACTIVITY: This is a perfect place for a sunrise, with the temples and jungle encapsulated by fog with a mountain backdrop. The hike to Setumbu is doable for all fitness levels. It can be steep in parts, but it’s not too difficult. It takes about 30-45 mins. The trail is a dirt path with some steps.

ACTIVITY: Explore the local villages by bicycle to visit its local businesses, traditional markets and outside around Borobudur Temple. The cycling is on a flat paved village road and total cycling distance is under 7km.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Spend the day getting to know the history and traditions of Central Java in Solo, known as the center of Javanese culture. With visits to Mangkunegaran Palace, Triwindhu Market and Laweyan Village, you'll have the chance to see how traditional heritage is still alive today.

ACTIVITY: Take in the mix of Javanese and European architecture at this charming palace. Keep an eye out for royalty -- members of the aristocratic family still reside in the palace.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Triwindhu Market. This is a great place to find traditional Javanese items, antiques, textiles, and local handicrafts. If you're interested in souvenirs, this is the place to be! Don’t hesitate to bargain a little with the vendors.

ACTIVITY: Learn about the traditional process of Batik-making. Then, have the chance to create your own batik piece, guided by skilled artisans. It’s a fantastic hands-on experience and a great souvenir opportunity!

After breakfast, continue east to Ngadas Village. On the way, make stops to explore Alun Alun Malang City Square and colorful Jodipan Village. Arrive to Ngadas in the late afternoon. This picturesque village in the foothills of Mt Bromo is known for its Javanese traditions and beautiful nature.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Nestled amongst the green hills of the Mt Bromo region, the village of Ngadas is home to a Tengger farming community. Overnight with a local family participating in the community's homestay program, a G Adventures-supported initiative. Learn about the local culture, customs, and traditions from your hosts.

ACTIVITY: Grab your camera for a visit to the picture perfect Jodipan Village. Known for its colorful rainbow homes, like the while town is a mural.

An early morning jeep ride is the best way to see the Bromo Crater this morning. Followed by a 45 minute hike to reach Penanjakan Hill view point just in time for sunrise! Admire the oranges and pinks before continuing the hike through the Sea of Sands to the top of Bromo Crater. Enjoy a picnic breakfast at Teletubbies Hill. Return to Ngadas Village for a walking tour (and maybe a coffee?) to see the temples, the tomb of mbah Sedek and the holy forest. Enjoy a local lunch and dinner at the homestay with free time to explore how you wish in between.

ACTIVITY: Jump in a jeep and explore the winding landscape of Eastern Java, climbing upwards and outwards towards the grandeur of Mt Bromo to witness a stunning sunrise. Hike to the peak of Mt Bromo, part of the Tengger Calder, the largest volcanic range in the area. A distinct site, the volcano blew its top off completely and is constantly smouldering with white smoke.

ACTIVITY: Learn more about daily life in Ngadas with a village walk. Take in views of the scenic hills as you walk along, passing farming areas and stopping to visit the local temple, vihara, and mosque.

ACTIVITY: Nestled amongst the green hills of the Mt Bromo region, the village of Ngadas is home to a Tengger farming community. Enjoy a village walk and local lunch at this G Adventures-supported initiative. Take in views of the scenic hills as you walk along, passing farming areas and stopping to visit the local temple, vihara, and mosque. Learn about the local culture, customs, and traditions from your hosts.

FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon in Ngadas Village.

Fill up on breakfast, then load into the bus to drive to Surabaya. Your tours ends on arrival at the Surabaya Airport.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.