Tour
START PLANNING

Indonesia

Exploring the island of Java allows you to experience authentic Indonesia, as well as learning about the history, and the sheer cultural diversity of the world's fourth most populated country. In addition to ancient temples, you will also be exposed to the natural beauty, the highlight being a sunrise trip to Mt. Bromo Volcano.

Sarah Casewit
Scenset travel curator

Exploring the island of Java allows you to experience authentic Indonesia, as well as learning about the history, and the sheer cultural diversity of the world's fourth most populated country. In addition to ancient temples, you will also be exposed to the natural beauty, the highlight being a sunrise trip to Mt. Bromo Volcano.

Thursday, 15 – Friday, 23 February, 2024 · 8 nights
Your Indonesian Adventure
🇮🇩
Trip Overview

Feb. 15-18 | Borobudur


Feb. 18-20 | Yogyakarta


Feb. 20-22 | Bromo


Feb. 22-23 | Malang


Feb. 23 | Departure

☎️
Contact Information

If you need urgent assistance while traveling, please contact your local contacts:

Emergency Contact Indonesia

  • Contact Person: will be provided


Guide in Borobudur and Yogyakarta

  • Contact Person: will be provided


Guide in Bromo and Malang

  • Contact Person: will be provided


Scenset Emergency Line

  • will be provided


Important: For immediate assistance, contact your local contact first, as they are in the same time zone.

Destination Information
✈️
Visa & Travel Requirements

A tourist visa is required for entering Indonesia. You can either apply online at this link no sooner than 14 days before arrival, OR you can apply for a visa on arrival at the Bali airport when you land. You can pay online with credit card or at the airport with credit card or cash.

🧳

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

🌤️
Weather

In February, Indonesia experiences the tail end of the monsoon season, particularly in the western regions such as Sumatra and Java, where rainy conditions persist.

The eastern parts of the country, including Bali and Nusa Tenggara, generally see drier weather with occasional showers.

Temperatures remain consistently warm across the archipelago, ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius (75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, it's important to note that Indonesia's climate can vary significantly between different islands and regions due to its diverse geography. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of rain, especially in the western parts, and plan their activities accordingly.

👕
What to wear

We recommend the following:

  • Wear lightweight and breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen, due to the warm tropical climate.
  • It is respectful to dress modestly, especially in predominantly Muslim areas by covering shoulders, upper arms and knees. You may wish to wear traditional Indonesian attire like batik shirts or kebayas for formal occasions if this applies.
  • Comfortable footwear that can be easily removed, like sandals, is recommended.
  • Carrying rain gear, such as a light rain jacket or umbrella, is advisable for unexpected showers.
  • Casual and informal wear is widely accepted, but adapting to local norms is recommended, particularly in more conservative areas where covering shoulders and knees may be appreciated.
  • Additionally, sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is important in the tropical sun.
🧳
Packing list

In addition to your clothing, we recommend to pack the following:

  • Very comfortable walking shoes
  • Hats that shade your face from the sun
  • A light scarf or shawl to cover shoulders (both for entering religious sites and to protect from the sun)
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses and if you wear contact lenses, consider bringing extra glasses as sand may irritate your eyes
  • Moisturizing creams and chapstick
  • A flashlight for viewing works in dark tombs
  • If you want to enjoy a nice dinner or dress up a little, bring chic or cocktail attire.
  • Bring any feminine hygiene products you may need with you as they can be difficult to find in Indonesia.


Don't forget your travel adapter and charging devices or phone charges!

💲
Tipping Guidelines

Tipping during your trip is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you:

Currency: We advise clients to take spending money in Indonesian Rupees cash, as this is favored for tips.

  • Drivers: a small amount per day.
  • Guides: a moderate amount per day.
  • Hosts/Greeters: a small amount per day.
  • Bartenders: round-up the bill.
  • Restaurants: 10% of the bill, although a service charge included on the bill is common so check.
  • Porters: a small amount per bag.
  • Hotel Room/Staff: a small amount per night.
  • Crew Staff: a moderate amount per day.


Note: We advise exchanging money at the airport to have cash on you before you arrive. Having cash on hand is advisable as not everywhere will accept card payments.

🎵
Spotify playlists

Enjoy some of our beach inspired playlists to relax and enjoy Indonesian life:

  • Surf's Up is your soundtrack to upbeat, beach inspired music!
  • Summer Chill is the perfect playlist for taking it easy and relaxing!
  • Lazy Beach Days is a great playlist for unwinding under the sun.
Thursday, 15 February, 2024
Day 1: Travel to Indonesia

Today, fly from Singapore to Yogyakarta, Indonesia!

🎫
AirAsia Booking Code
🛄
12:25 - VIP Airport Assistance

Arrival at YIA Airport where you will be greeted at the door of your plane and assisted with immigration and visa processing.

Booked by a travel agent.

🚗
12:25 - Arrival Transfer

Pick-up Time: Afternoon
Meeting Point: YIA Airport Arrivals Terminal
Contact: will be provided
Meet your guide for your private transfer to Borobudur (1.5-2 hours)

Booked by Scenset.

🍱
Stop for Lunch with Mendut Temple & Monastery Visit

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant on your way to Borobudur.

Then, visit the Mendut Temple & Monastery. Mendut Temple is older than Borobudur, built around AD 800, it is located less than two miles from Borobudur and an impressive archaeological site in its own right. From the distance, Mendut Temple looks graceful and sturdy on its temple foot as tall as 3.70m At a glimpse, the reliefs that describe Jataka story give a moral message for all those who visit Mendut Temple. Up to the body of the temple 8 reliefs of Bodhisattva with a variety of hand attitudes with much bigger size than the panel reliefs in Borobudur Temple.

Here, see carvings that depict scenset from Buddhist literature along with Indian morality parables on the exterior, and a rare Buddha statue seated in the European style (on a chair) inside.

Booked by a travel agent - lunch is paid locally.

Mendut Temple
Mendut Temple
Borobudur

Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Central Java, Indonesia, stands as a majestic testament to ancient Buddhist art and architecture. Built in the 9th century, this colossal stone monument comprises nine stacked platforms adorned with intricate reliefs and 504 Buddha statues. The structure, shaped like a mandala, showcases a fusion of Indonesian and Indian artistic styles. Pilgrims ascend through the monument's three levels, symbolizing the stages of Buddhist enlightenment, culminating in a central dome with a captivating panoramic view of the surrounding lush landscape. Borobudur remains a sacred pilgrimage site and a captivating testament to Indonesia's rich cultural heritage.

🍷
Dinner at Platraran Borobudur

Reach your property and after settling into your accommodations, dine at one of the restaurants of your hotel:


Recommendation only - no bookings have been made.

Your Stay: Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa

Why we love it for you: Surrounded by lush teak forests, Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa transports guests to another time and place, where days gently unfold against the backdrop of magnificent Borobudur Temple and the picturesque Menoreh Hills. Amid this unbelievably beautiful and atmospheric setting, experience the utmost peace and privacy within traditional Javanese villas, spacious havens of supreme comfort with a private pool.

Executive Pool Villa
Executive Pool Villa
The interior of your villa
The interior of your villa
🛏

Plataran Borobudur
Executive Pool Villa

  • Booking confirmation: will be provided
  • Breakfast included


Booked by scenset.

Friday, 16 February, 2024
Day 2: Exploring Borobudur

Rise early to watch the sunrise from your resort over Borobudur, then head to breakfast.

Sunrise from the resort
Sunrise from the resort
🍡
09:00 - Borobudur Local Market
  • Pick-up Time: Morning
  • Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
  • Contact: A representative | will be provided


The morning local market at Borobudur village is a vibrant and bustling marketplace located near the world-famous Borobudur Temple in Indonesia.

Open in the early hours of the day, this market offers an array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and local snacks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Javanese culture, interact with friendly vendors, and explore the unique flavors, aromas, and crafts that define the region. It's an excellent place to experience the authentic local culture and pick up souvenirs or sample delicious Indonesian street food.

Booked by Scenset.

🛺
Candirejo Village Tour

Candirejo Village, a traditional Javanese village rich in its natural surroundings and being promoted for village tourism, portrays traditional Javanese culture and daily life through traditional houses, plantation resources, art performances, farming and local food.

You will participate in daily social activities to feel their traditional village atmosphere, culture and lifestyle. Enjoy the traditional Andong transportation surrounding the village. Andong is the designation for the carriage of Yogyakarta and is one of the traditional transportation in Yogyakarta and surrounding areas.

The existence of Andong as one of the cultural heritage of Java provides its own cultural characteristics that are still preserved.

Booked by a user.

🍚
Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After your village tour, stop at a local restaurant for lunch.

Booked by scenset - paid locally.

⛩️
Borobudur Temple Guided Tour

Avoid the morning crowds by an afternoon visit to the temple.

Borobudur Temple is reputedly one of the grandeur of Buddhist monuments rivalling to Angkor Wat. It has 6 levels to pronounce the sacred number of Buddhist rituals and moral stories beautifully sculptured on its walls and fences. The Sailendra dynasty embraced Mahayana Buddhism in the early 9th century, and the temple took almost 100 years to be completed. Based on an ancient text it was supposedly inaugurated in 824. Borobudur is a massive pyramid that rises from the green plains like the neighboring volcanoes. From its 150,000-square-foot base, climb up six tiers to the top. The top level is dotted with 72 small, latticework stupas, each with a statue of Buddha inside, visible through the grates.

Booked by scenset.

Temples of Borobudur
Temples of Borobudur

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

🛏️

Plataran Borobudur
Executive Pool Villa

  • Breakfast included


Booked by a guest.

Saturday, 17 February, 2024
Day 3: Temples of Borobudur

Today, enjoy tours of the surrounding areas to explore further afield.

⛰️
Guided Temple Tours

Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Spend another day exploring the temples in this region. Gedong Songo is a 2 hour drive north, and is a Hindu temple made out of volcanic stone. You can also visit the Dieng Plateau, home to another fascinating complex of temples.

Booked by Scenset.

⚠️

Note: We may amend the touring schedule for today, owing to the copious amounts of driving. One suggestion would be to remove Dieng Plateau, replacing it with other sites in the area. This will vastly reduce drive times.

The Dieng Plateau
The Dieng Plateau
Gedong Songo
Gedong Songo
🏔️
Recommendations: Other Activities

Merapi Volcano Jeep Adventure
Embark on a distinctive journey that offers profound insights into the aftermath of a volcanic eruption. As you embark on a jeep excursion from the base of Mount Merapi to Kali Adem, you'll encounter the vivid remnants of the volcano's powerful eruption. Marvel at the expansive volcanic footprint, observe the scattered volcanic stones, and take in the remarkable imprints left by the intense geological event. This adventure not only provides a thrilling experience but also serves as an educational opportunity to grasp the enduring impacts of nature's formidable forces. Explore the landscape and delve into the geological story etched in the surroundings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world.

Cooking Journey
Enjoy a delectable culinary expedition immersed in authentic local flavors. Join a chef as they unveil the artistry behind their favorite Indonesian dishes, generously sharing secret cooking techniques and recipes. Gain valuable insights into the diverse world of spices and herbs, discovering the nuanced combinations that elevate Indonesian cuisine. Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class where you will create a beautiful meal under the guidance of the expert chef. Once the culinary masterpiece is complete, indulge in the fruits of your labor, savoring the rich and savory flavors of Indonesia that you've skillfully crafted during this immersive and delicious experience.

These are recommendations only and not included by Scenset.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

🛏️

Plataran Borobudur
Executive Pool Villa

  • Breakfast included


Booked by a guest.

Sunday, 18 February, 2024
Day 4: Travel to Yogyakarta

Today you travel to Yogyakarta.

🚗
09:00 - Private Transfer

Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: A representative will be provided.

  • A phone number will be provided


After breakfast, transfer about 1 hour to the heart of Yogyakarta City. On the way, stop by The Sultan's Palace and the Prambanan Temple.

Booked by Scenset.

🏰
The Sultan's Palace

The Sultan's Palace, or Kraton, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, stands as a majestic testament to Javanese royal heritage. Built in the 18th century, this grand complex is the residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta and a center of Javanese culture. With its elegant architecture featuring intricately carved wooden panels and classic Javanese design, the palace is a visual feast. Visitors can explore the opulent halls, witness traditional performances, and marvel at the cultural artifacts within the palace, gaining a profound insight into the rich history and royal traditions of Yogyakarta. The Kraton remains a living symbol of Java's enduring royal legacy.

Booked by someone

🛕
Prambanan Temple Guided Tour

Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Java stands as an awe-inspiring Hindu temple complex. Constructed in the 9th century, it boasts towering spires and intricately carved reliefs, showcasing remarkable examples of ancient Javanese art and architecture. Dedicated to the Trimurti, the three main Hindu deities, Prambanan is a cultural marvel with its grand structures reflecting the region's rich religious history. The temple's towering splendor and historical significance make it a captivating destination for enthusiasts of both history and architecture.

Booked by someone.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, often referred to as Jogja, is a vibrant city on Java Island, Indonesia, renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Home to the magnificent Kraton Palace, it exudes a blend of traditional Javanese and colonial influences. The bustling Malioboro Street offers a lively atmosphere with vibrant markets and street performances. Yogyakarta is a gateway to ancient wonders like Borobudur and Prambanan, reflecting its significance as a hub of Javanese art, history, and spirituality. With its warm hospitality and a thriving arts scene, Yogyakarta is a captivating destination for cultural enthusiasts.

Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta
Leisure

Reach your hotel and relax at leisure for the remainder of the evening.

The evening has been left for you to unwind and explore at your own pace.

Your Stay: Phoenix Hotel

Why we love it for you: The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta welcomes you with the luxury of another era. You will be immersed in a unique heritage boutique hotel and experience "Memorable Moments" from your very first step in the hotel. The best choice to discover the charm of Yogya.

Pool at The Phoenix Hotel
Pool at The Phoenix Hotel
🛏

Phoenix Hotel
Phoenix Executive Room

  • Booking confirmation: will be provided
  • Breakfast included


Booked by scenset.

Monday, 19 February, 2024
Day 5: Yogyakarta

Explore the cultural and historical heritage of Yogyakarta.

🏙️
09:00 - Explore Yogyakarta

Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Embark on a dynamic exploration of Yogyakarta, beginning with the lively markets of Malioboro Street, a sensory delight with its vibrant stalls and bustling atmosphere. Dive into the city's cultural essence by wandering through the Affandi Museum, where contemporary Indonesian art takes center stage. Transition to a spiritual journey with visits to smaller temples like Plaosan and Sambisari, each revealing the intricate details of ancient Javanese architecture and artistry. Uncover the city's history at the Ullen Sentalu Museum, which showcases the royal artifacts and cultural heritage of Java. Visit the famous Water Temple.

Booked by Scenset.

Local market in Yogyakarta
Local market in Yogyakarta
🛕
Batik Winotosastro

Stop by Batik Winotosastro to witness Yogyakarta’s largest industry. Batik is a traditional wax dyed cloth recognizable by its colourful and intricate designs. Here you can see the batik painting process from start to finish, and also peruse their large gallery of items for sale, if you are interested to practice batik making we can assist.

Booked by scenset.

Batik painting
Batik painting
🌯
Lunch

Stop along the way at a local restaurant for a traditional lunch.

🎨
Street Art & Odong Odong

In the late afternoon, your guide will introduce you to the street art of Yogyakarta. There are many interesting murals to visit and photograph. You will also get to see traditional and colorful vehicles of Yogya - the odong odong. Hop in one for a fun tour of the city.

Booked by Scenset.

Odong-odong in Yogyakarta
Odong-odong in Yogyakarta

The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.

🛏️

Phoenix Hotel
Phoenix Executive Room

  • Breakfast included


Booked by someone.

Tuesday, 20 February, 2024
Day 6: Journey to Bromo

Today you will depart early for Bromo.

🚗
06:00 - Private Transfer

Pick-up Time: Early morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby

Greeting at your hotel and private transfer to the train station for your train to Surabaya.

Booked by Scenset.

🚗
10:30 - Private Transfer

Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Arrival at Surabaya Train Station and private transfer to Plataran Bromo Resort.

Booked by Scenset.

🍱
Lunch at Plataran Bromo

Arrive at your hotel in the early afternoon in time for a delicious lunch.

Paid locally.

🌋
Mt. Bromo 4x4 Excursion & Hike

Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Meet with your guide and take a 30-minute 4WD Jeep to Mount Bromo. Arrive at the parking area, from which you can start walking up to the Mt. Bromo base. The hike up to the rim of the crater (253-stone steps) is worth the view from the top!

Booked by scenset.

Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo
Your Stay: Plataran Bromo Resort

Why we love it for you: Plataran Bromo, nestled near the iconic Mount Bromo in East Java, Indonesia, is a luxurious resort that offers a serene retreat amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. With elegant Javanese-inspired architecture, the resort provides a perfect blend of modern comforts and traditional charm. Guests at Plataran Bromo can enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding volcanic scenery while experiencing top-notch hospitality and indulging in a range of curated activities.

Plataran Bromo
Plataran Bromo
🛏

Plataran Bromo Resort
Premier Suite

  • Booking confirmation: will be provided
  • Breakfast included


Booked by a person.

Wednesday, 21 February, 2024
Day 7: Mt. Bromo

Today, watch the sun rise over Penanjakan Mountain and enjoy the day at leisure.

🌋
03:00 - Sunrise Adventure

Pick-up Time: Early morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Today, wake up early and meet the guide in the early morning for a roughly 45-minute 4WD jeep ride to visit Penanjakan Mountain.

You will be provided with a flashlight and stick before you start your approximately 1-hour walk to a hidden spot of Argo Wulan; arriving just before sunrise. Once you arrive you will be welcomed by the 360-degree spot where you can see Argopura Mountain, a group of Mountains next to Bromo Crater and Semeru Mountain as their background. Furthermore, you can see Semeru Mountain which erupts every 30 minutes and the amazing natural view of the mountains, aglow in the yellow sunrise.

Feel the breeze of the morning air while waiting for the sunrise. We will prepare coffee & tea to warm your body. Once the sun has risen, retrace the trails back to the hotel for breakfast and a free program for the rest of the day.

Booked by scenset.

Mt. Bromo Volcano
Mt. Bromo Volcano

The rest of the day has been left for you to unwind, relax and explore at your own pace.

🌅
04:30 - Sunset Al Fresco

Pick-up Time: Afternoon
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided
Enjoy the sunset from a secluded spot in the highlands of Bromo with Plataran’s Sunset Al Fresco encounter.

Booked by Scenset.

🛏️

Plataran Bromo Resort
Premier Suite

  • Breakfast included


Booked by a guest.

Thursday, 22 February, 2024
Day 8: Exploring Malang

Today, head to Malang for a tour and a cooking class!

🚗
09:00 - Private Transfer

Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Greeting and private transfer to Malang.

Booked by Scenset.

Malang

Malang captivates visitors with its blend of colonial architecture, lush landscapes, and cultural richness. Located amidst picturesque mountains, the city offers a tranquil escape with its cooler climate and vibrant markets. Explore historical sites like the Javanese-Hindu Singosari Temple and the colonial-era Ijen Boulevard. Malang is renowned for its culinary scene, where traditional Javanese flavors meet modern gastronomy.

👨‍🍳
Cooking Class

The cooking class covers the techniques in the making and decorating of traditional Javanese dishes such as Nasi Goreng and also ethnic delicacies like Kue Nagasari, Kue Bugis and Lemper. The lesson starts with a becak trip to the traditional market to shop for fresh ingredients. This course takes approximately 90 minutes, and is ended by traditional Indonesian lunch. It includes one Tugu apron as a souvenir.

Booked by a participant.

🛺
Explore Malang & Temples

Get acquainted with the city on the back of a traditional becak - a cycle rickshaw. Explore the temple ruins nearby. The Malang temples, a collection of ancient Hindu temples, showcase exquisite architectural remnants from the Majapahit Empire. Dating back to the 13th century, these temples, including Singosari and Badut, boast intricately carved reliefs and distinctive Javanese design. The historical significance of the Malang temples offers a glimpse into Indonesia's rich cultural and religious heritage.

Booked by someone.

Explore in a becak
Explore in a becak

Enjoy your evening at leisure.

Your Stay: Tugu Malang

Why we love it for you: Located at the heart of the old town, looking out to the main monument of Indonesia’s struggle for independence’s beautiful lotus pond park, Hotel Tugu Malang is more than just a hotel; it has become most indigenous, most essential in experiencing the beautiful richness of the history of Java.

🛏️

Tugu Malang
Executive Suite

  • Booking confirmation: will be provided
  • Breakfast included


Booked by scenset

Friday, 23 February, 2024
Day 9: Sampai Jumpa Lagi!

Today, head to the airport for your flight to Australia.

🚗
05:30 - Airport Transfer

Pick-up Time: Early morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided

  • will be provided


Greeting by your host and private transfer to the Surabaya airport for your flight to Melbourne via Denpasar.

Booked by Scenset.