Best of Java & Sumatra
21 days, Medan to Surabaya
When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.
Itinerary
Day 1Medan
Welcome to Sumatra! Arrive at anytime.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
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.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Swiss Belhotel Medan (or similar)
Day 2Medan/Bukit Lawang
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.
The Great Mosque of Medan and Maimun Palace Visit
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.
Vihara Gunung Timur
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.
Tjong Afie Mansion
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.
Your Foodie Moment: Padang Lunch
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Ecolodge Bukit Lawang Cottages (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 3Bukit Lawang
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.
Jungle Trekking & River Tubing in Gunung Leuser National Park
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.
Local Cooking Class
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.
Accommodation
Ecolodge Bukit Lawang Cottages (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 4Bukit Lawang/Berastagi
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.
Your Wellness Moment: Sibayak Hot Spring
Relax in the hot springs of Mount Sibayak volcano and admire the stunning surroundings.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Sinabung Hill Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Berastagi/Lake Toba
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Traditional Batak Village Visit
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.
Sipiso Piso Waterfall
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.
Accommodation
Toledo Inn (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 6Lake Toba/Medan
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.
Tombs in Tomok Village
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.
Ambarita Village Visit
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.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Anara Sky Kualanamu (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Medan/Jakarta
Depart Medan and fly southbound to Jakarta. Get settled in and explore the city with your CEO.
Accommodation
Erian Hotel (or similar)
Day 8Jakarta
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).
Kota Tua Old Town Jakarta & Jamu Drinks
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.
Sunda Kelapa Harbor
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 "phinisi" 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.
Istiqlal Mosque Visit
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."
Jakarta Cathedral
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.
Your Foodie Moment: Sabang Street Dinner
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).
Accommodation
Erian Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 9Jakarta/Bandung
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Foodie Moment: Sundanese Lunch
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.
Badung Geological Museum
Visit to the Geological Museum of Bandung. Exploring exhibits on fossils, minerals, and geological history, offering a fascinating insight into Indonesia's natural heritage.
Gedung Sate Photo Stop
Drive to visit the beautiful Dutch architecture of Gedung Sate.
Jalan Asia Afrika
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.
Accommodation
Arion Suite Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 10Bandung
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
Enjoy a full day to explore the city of Bandung.
Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow
Kawah Putih
Kawah Putih is a striking sulfuric crater lake, known for its surreal, milky-white waters set against a backdrop of lush forests. Explore the crater, and visit a scenic tea plantation where we can stroll through the verdant fields, learn about tea production, and enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills. This combination provides a perfect mix of scenic landscapes, relaxation, and insight into local traditions.
Tangkuban Prahu Volcano
Visit Tangkuban Prahu, a stunning active volcano located in West Java, Indonesia. You can view the crater, steaming sulfur vents, and expansive panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The volcano, known for its distinctive shape resembling an upturned boat (tangkuban prahu), is also rich in local legends. Hike to Kawah Domas, an easy to medium trel, through the forest for around 1.2 kilometers. The first 900 meters of the 1200-meter hike to Kawah Domas is relatively easy, as it follows a slightly sloping dirt path. After crossing a bridge, the trail slopes downward and includes several stairs at some points. Overall, the hike is not that difficult.
Accommodation
Arion Suite Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Bandung/Semarang
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Semarang Kota Lama
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.
Sam Poo Kong Temple
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.
Lawang Sewu
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.
Accommodation
Aston Inn Pandanaran (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Semarang/Dieng Plateau
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.
Gedong Songo Temple Visit
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.
Railway Museum Ambarawa
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
DAFAM Hotel Wonosobo (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Dieng Plateau
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.
Wonosobo Town Square
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.
Dieng Plateau Adventure
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.
Accommodation
DAFAM Hotel Wonosobo (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Dieng Plateau/Yogyakarta
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Selogriyo Temple
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
KJ Hotel Yogyakarta (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Yogyakarta
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
Get out and explore Yogyakarta and its surrounding attractions.
Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow
Yogyakarta Becak Tour & Taman Sari
Becak is one of the oldest and most traditional forms of transportation in Indonesia. Today, you will discover Yogyakarta's highlight by this traditional transport. Ride through the Alun-Alun Kidul (South Square), the Sultan's Palace and Taman Sari, the Water Castle, once used by the royal family to spend their leisure time. After a delicious lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to Sonobudoyo Museum. This museum collects and keeps important pieces of Javanese tradition. You'll end the day at the famous Malioboro Road for some shopping and local everyday life before returning to your hotel.
Jomblang Cave Tour
A hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Yogyakarta, Jomblang Cave offers an extraordinary adventure into the heart of the earth. This unique vertical cave invites you to explore a hidden underground wonderland, illuminated by sunlight. Your journey begins early in the morning. After a scenic 2-hour drive, you'll arrive at the entrance to Jomblang Cave. Before descending into the depths, you'll be fitted for all required gear and guided by experienced professionals. Then embark on a thrilling descent of 60 meters into the cavern. Once at the bottom, you'll marvel at the breathtaking sight of sunlight filtering through the cave's opening, casting a magical glow upon the subterranean landscape. Explore the mysterious depths and intricate rock formations. After your underground exploration, you'll be pulled back up to the surface, ready to savor a delicious local lunch cooked by the local women in the area before you return back to your hotel.
Village Tour by Colonial Style Bike
Cycle through the villages and wave hello to the people you will be passing along the way. You will be stopping at a traditional market and home businesses, all awhile meeting locals, and getting insights into the different facets of local life here in Yogyakarta. A traditional Javanese lunch will be waiting for you after your hard work.
Accommodation
KJ Hotel Yogyakarta (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 16Yogyakarta/Magelang
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Candirejo Village Visit
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.
Accommodation
Puri Asri Magelang Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 17Magelang/Solo
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.
Setumbu Hill Sunrise Hike
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.
Wanurejo & Borobudur Village Biking Tour
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
The Royal Surakarta Heritage (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 18Solo
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.
Triwindhu Market
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.
Mangkunegaran Palace Visit
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.
Your Hands-On Moment: Traditional Batik Making
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!
Accommodation
The Royal Surakarta Heritage (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 19Solo/Bromo
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.
Your G for Good Moment: Ngadas Homestay
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.
Jodipan Colorful Village Visit
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Ngadas Homestay (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 20Bromo
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.
Your G for Good Moment: Village Walk
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.
Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Ngadas Village
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.
Mount Bromo Jeep Excursion
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.
Accommodation
Ngadas Homestay (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 21Bromo/Surabaya
Fill up on breakfast, then load into the bus to drive to Surabaya. Your tours ends on arrival at the Surabaya Airport.
Please book onward travel after 3pm.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.