Indonesia: Sumatra, Java & Bali

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.

We depart Medan today and fly to Yogyakarta. After arrival, the day is yours. Opt to rest before the next part of your trip, or dive right in and explore the city of Yogyakarta.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the city of Yogyakarta!

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.

Depart Java and fly to Bali, then drive to Seminyak. Check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day how you'd like! Seminyak is a lively and fun beach town, so relish the chance to enjoy it!

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

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

FREE TIME: Spend a free evening in the exciting beach town of Seminyak!

Head north this morning as we say goodbye to Seminyak and travel toward Munduk. Our day will be filled with exciting stops along the way, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site Jatiluwih Rice Terraces where we can explore the ancient emerald-green fields. The second stop is Baturiti Fruit Market where we can wander through the colorful stalls and try fresh fruits like rambutan and dragon fruit, depending on the season. Continue on to the gorgeous temple in the middle of the lake, at Ulun Danu Temple. Take the scenic route to Munduk with one final pit stop at the Twin Lake photo spot. Arrive to Munduk in the evening, check in the hotel and enjoy some free time.

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

ACTIVITY: Follow your CEO down narrow paths as you explore the UNESCO-protected Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Stop to enjoy the view as you trek around the area.

ACTIVITY: Bring your camera for this floating temple visit; the captivating Ulun Danu Temple, founded by the King of Mengwi in the 17th century, is one of Bali’s most important and most photographed temples.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. On the way, explore Baturit Fruit Market and try some local fresh fruit, and continue on with other awesome pit stops along the way.

We're off to our G for Good supported community homestay in Bulian today but not without some adventure along the way. A dip in Banjar Hot Springs is without a doubt the perfect way to start today. From a relaxing moment to some upbeat adventuring, we head to lively and exciting Pasar Anyar Singaraja, a traditional market full of fresh produce and handmade homeware where locals come to haggle. The last stop of today is Beji Temple where we'll explore this historic complex before finally arriving to Bulian in the afternoon. Embark on a village tour and traditional Balinese offering making workshop as you immerse yourself in our homestay in Bulian.

ACTIVITY: Take a dip at Air Panas Banjar, a centuries-old therapeutic sulfur hot springs bathing spot nestled in lush vegetation in the hills of Bali. It is renowned for its therapeutic mineral-rich waters sourced from a natural volcanic spring. Spend time in the relaxing waters of Banjar’s three-tiered pools, each varying in temperature and offering a unique bathing experience. The soothing warmth of the mineral-rich waters is said to alleviate muscle tension and promote overall well-being.

ACTIVITY: Pasar Anyar Singaraja, also known as Singaraja Traditional Market, is one of the main traditional markets of the area. Once here, you can see first hand what's sold like fresh produce, rice and tobacco, or household necessities like locally made kitchenware and utensils on display across various stalls. For first-timers, the scene here may seem a bit chaotic, with cluttered stalls. But it’s one of the best places for bargains, and you might score a unique souvenir like gemstones and jewelry.

ACTIVITY: The temple was built in the 15th century during the Majapahit period and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Bali.The timeworn structures and walls within the temple complex are exquisitely contrasted by the manicured green lawns and tropical gardens. Shrine bases and white sandstone walls are covered in arrays of carvings, inspired by the great Hindu epics with a mixture of characters from fables and legends such as serpents, menacing demons and guardians. The stone staircases and temple gates of Pura Beji temple also feature intact statues. It's a great stopover for lovers of art and ancient architecture.

ACTIVITY: Learn the unique history of this isolated village and why it's sometimes referred to as the "Lost Kingdom" or "The Land of Curse." We'll embark on a tour of the village and get to know the local people as you wander past plantations, schools, and temples. Dress in local clothing and prepare offerings made of leaves and flowers before heading to a spiritual ceremony where you meet a local priestess.

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

After a delicious breakfast, we're off to Lemukih Village for the day. Trek through rice paddies, a durian plantation, a coffee plantation and even a natural waterslide that we'll get a chance to enjoy. After lunch in a local warung, we'll continue our trek to visit 2 beautiful waterfalls, where we can swim and relax. Head towards Kintamani, a highland region in Bali known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, like the active Mount Batur and the serene Lake Batur.

ACTIVITY: Trek through Lemukih Village and enjoy the view of rice terrace fields. Stop at a durian plantation and natural water slide, where of course we will have a chance to slide down the water slide! Trek through a coffee plantation, and stop at a local warung for lunch before continuing to two of Bali's most incredible but still undiscovered waterfalls, Fiji and Sekumpul.

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

Don't miss the opportunity to explore Mt Batur at sunrise today! Choose the more active option of trekking to the sunrise point or choose the thrilling jeep sunrise adventure. After breakfast at the hotel, we'll visit the well preserved Penglipuran Village to experience picturesque Balinese culture. Afterwards, stop at the beautiful Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple on the way to Ubud. In the evening, arrive to Ubud.

FREE TIME: A sunrise visit to Mt Batur is a must! Opt to join a trek or jeep adventure this morning.

ACTIVITY: Step into a timeless Balinese village known for its well-preserved traditional layout and culture. Wander its narrow lanes, interact with locals, and take in the authentic cultural atmosphere. Take up the opportunity to purchase locally made handicrafts as souvenirs.

ACTIVITY: Visit Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple. This serene temple complex is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds. Explore the ancient carvings, tranquil pools, and lush gardens. Take time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the intricate details of the temple architecture. It's a wonderful place for reflection and appreciation of Balinese artistry.

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

Ubud is often considered the cultural heart of Bali. Today you have the opportunity to explore however you'd like. From monkey forests, local cooking classes, making spiritual offerings and Balinese village experiences, your options for today are endless.FREE TIME: FULL DAY Today is yours to explore Ubud how you prefer!

After a yummy breakfast, we drive from Ubud to the coast! Arrive in Candi Dasa in eastern Bali this afternoon and enjoy some free time.

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

FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon in the seaside town of Candi Dasa.

Enjoy the amazing chance to explore Candidasa however you'd like! Opt to join a local Balinese cooking class and learn to make local favorites like Chicken Tum and Gado-Gado. Or take a snorkeling trip to the beautiful Blue Lagoon! The choice is yours.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Spend today exactly how you'd like in Candi Dasa!

Depart at any time.