java road trip itinerary

Two weeks in Java

• Suggested itineraries

Many people arrive in Indonesia through the chaotic capital of Jakarta and immediately try and find a way of getting out of it. We get this, but would say, hold your horses, take a breath and do a bit of exploring.

Introduction

The key to a two-week Java trip is to try not to panic when you reach Jakarta. Keep calm and muster up a bit of determination—a slow exit from the city brings you directly into West Java, a magnificent province visited less frequently than those further to the east. If you’ve an interest in exploring there, you should take a look at our two weeks in West Java piece, but if you’ve for two weeks for the entire island, you’ll need to move faster.

A preference for many is to get a train across the island to the first place they know anything about—Yogyakarta. It’s an appealing option to simply jump on an air-conditioned train away from Jakarta and end up somewhere where there is an established and well-functioning tourist infrastructure complete with lovely hotels, modern Western restaurants and the jewel in the crown of Indonesian tourism, Borobodur.

But those with a little more time up their sleeve should think of spending the two weeks incorporating more than just Jakarta and Yogya into their plans. We’ve written about what is possible in one week in Java and no doubt that itinerary is a rush, but with just two weeks in Java you can explore some of these places more deeply and jump into a handful of other spots which have fewer foreign tourists.

Getting around

A word of warning—if you’re not travelling by train, time and patience are both required when travelling in Java. Despite it being one of the most densely populated areas anywhere, the infrastructure can be somewhat lacking and travel is often painfully slow. If you restrict yourself to train travel, Java’s rail network is quite comfortable, efficient, timely and affordable. The buses, not so much.

Java’s wet season runs roughly late October to late February. During this time, road travel is fine on the major roads, but landslides do happen and there can by trip disruptions. If you’ve got a date with a long haul international flight, be sure to allow enough wiggle room to make sure you don’t miss it. Heavy rain can also cause delays on the rail network. If you are planning on climbing volcanoes, bring protective cold weather gear—even in dry season.

Day 1: Jakarta Arrive in Jakarta and find a place to stay. Most of the backpacker accommodation is in the centrally located Jalan Jaksa. It’s a bit of a seedy area and won’t suit everyone, but if you’re looking for a hostel that's a bit more flash and allows you to settle into Jakarta life a little easier, there isn’t a better place than Six Degrees on Jalan Cikini . This street is quite central and also home to some of the best food in Jakarta. Make sure you book a train ticket today for your onward journey tomorrow—Jakarta to Bandung (three hours).

Day 2: Jakarta & Bandung The main sites of Jakarta can be seen in six hours and because you’ll be heading to Bandung later in the day, an early start is a must. First stop is Monumen Nasional (MONAS) which is within walking distance of Jalan Jaksa and a short cab ride from Jalan Cikini. From there, walk across the road to the east to visit two of the most prominent religious buildings in Indonesia: Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Catholic Cathedral. Both are free to enter and the mosque in particular will interest those who have had little contact with Islam.

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Reviewed by Adam Poskitt

Adam gave up a corporate career in 2009 and left Australia for the hustle and bustle of Southeast Asia. He now lives in Indonesia.

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The ultimate 10 day java travel itinerary.

Java is one of my favourite islands in Indonesia. It has so much to offer, from amazing volcanoes, beautiful beaches, surfing, stunning tea fields and country sides, epic waterfalls and much more. It’s an island that will allow you to experience a variety of amazing things to do in Indonesia, all in one epic island! We spent 10 days in Java, so I thought it would be perfect for me to write a 10 day Java Itinerary to help you plan your adventures. 

So let’s get to it! 

Interactive map of our Java itinerary

Travellerspoint

Our Awesome 10 Day Java Itinerary 

Stop 1: Jakarta: 1 night 

Jakarta is actually the capital of Indonesia, and it’s a great place to start your Java adventures. Since it’s the capital, flights from all over the world are possible here. Plus I actually think Jakarta is a good place to start as you can pick up a sim card, and stock up on any last minute items you may need. The shopping is amazing in Jakarta! 

You’ll only be flying “into” Jakarta, you won’t need to return. You can check Skyscanner for the best flights. 

Where to stay:  Pop! Hotel

Stop 2: Bandung: 2 nights 

It’s super easy to get to Bandung from Jakarta. 

You’ll be pleased to hear that Java has a very very well established train network, so getting through the whole country is easy, cheap and super convenient. As far as trains go, they are modern, comfortable and clean! (much better than the trains I experienced in India). 

We left from Gambir station in Jakarta and it took around 3.5 hours to Bandung, costing around 100,000 IDR (approx $7). 

Bandung is very different to Jakarta. It’s located in West Java, but really the charm in Bandung is once you get out of the main city and head to the highlands where it’s a colder climate which means it’s got some unique and amazing sights. 

Bandung offers beautiful tea fields, an active volcano that you can literally drive up to…..(awesome!), a pretty cool floating market, flower gardens and much much more. It’s the perfect place to rent a moped and just explore the stunning countryside of Java. There are also some really cool “glamping” spots in Bandung, which I didn’t know about before I visited, otherwise I would have stayed in one of those, so now that you know, take full advantage! 

I’ve done a whole guide on great things to do in Bandung. 

2 nights is sufficient to see Bandung, but you’ll probably have to choose between seeing the north or south, if you want both, you may need another night. However, I think north Bandung offers you more. 

Stop 3: Yogyakarta- 3 nights 

Next up, it’s time to visit probably the most famous backpacker destination in Java, Yogyakarta, also known as Jogjakarta. 

You can get to Yogyakarta from Bandung via train, but it does take around 8 hours. I actually found the journey to be quite pleasant, and we just watched movies and relaxed. Now we did our train journey in the day time, so we “lost” a day of sightseeing as such, but that’s included in the itinerary, however you can get an overnight train if you wish. The train costs around 260,000 IDR (approx $19)

Another option is to fly from Bandung to Yogyakarta, which will be more expensive than the train, but it’s actually quite cheap for an internal flight, so if you are short on time, that is another option. 

Yogyakarta is one of my favourite places in all of Java. It’s bursting with amazing things to see, and you’ll need a whole day just to dedicate time to seeing the amazing temples: Borobudur temple and Prambanan temple. I suggest you do a sunrise tour at the former and visiting the latter in the evening. In between you can check out some of the other sights in Yogyakarta city centre. 

You’ll definitely need another day (or more) to explore the countryside of Yogyakarta. Once you rent a moped and drive outwards you’ll discover stunning views, amazing rice paddies, beautiful mountains, beaches and so much more.

Read my guide on the best things to do in Yogyakarta for more inspiration. 

Stop 4: Malang- 3 nights 

Malang is the final stop on our 10 day Java itinerary. Malang is located in East Java and it’s my favorite place to visit in Java. It was amazing. 

Getting to Malang again is very easy from Yogyakarta by train. It takes around 7 hours and costs around 165,000 IDR (approx $12). You can either do an early morning train like Brad and I did, or do an overnight train (although I’m not 100% sure they’re possible!) 

When you get to Malang you’re going to be super busy! You can visit the amazing Jodpian rainbow village, and other city centre sights, but what you really want to do is rent a moped and drive to the amazing waterfalls that surround the city.

A full day is needed to explore Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, and there are many other small waterfalls, tea fields and flower gardens to the east of Malang which require a full day of sightseeing, and then you’re going to want to do an epic Mount Bromo sunrise tour. 

If you only do one thing when you go to Malang, the Mount Bromo sunrise tour should be it, trust me. You can book your tour from Malang right here! 

Read Also: Ultimate Guide On The Best Things To Do In Malang

Total: 9 nights= 10 days in Java! 

You may need to incorporate a few overnight trains into your 10 day Java itinerary, but Bradley and I managed to see it all in this time frame too, so you can too. We were exhausted by the end of it, but it was amazing to get to see and experience so many amazing things on the island of Java. 

Based on our itinerary you can fly out of Malang to your home destination, or even get a train to the city of Surabaya and fly from there.  

If you’re only looking for a 7 day Java Itinerary, then add on a Mount Ijen tour too which is known for the famous “blue crater”, this requires typically an overnight tour to visit this, so I would only suggest this if you’ve got time for 2 weeks in Java. 

Getting around Java

I’ve actually done a post on getting around Indonesia which will help you plan your Java itinerary. However what I will discuss some of your best options for Java below:

• ‍ Train travel: 100% the best way to get around Java is by train. It’s cheap, it’s comfortable, it’s modern, and it’s easy. Everything is electronic based too, so you can book your tickets via an app, scan the app at the train station, get your tickets then pop on the train to your chosen seats. For booking train tickets in Java, we used a website called Tiket which was modern, fast and cheap. Or you can check 12Go Asia who are also brilliant for planning your 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Bus travel: You will be able to get buses to and from different destinations around Java, but since I didn’t use a single bus, I can’t really give you any advice on the experience. I wouldn’t understand why you would choose the bus over train as it will be longer, and whilst it could be slightly cheaper, it would be less comfortable. But if you do want to travel by bus, you can get 12Go Asia to help find seats.  ‍
• Flying : If you’re short on time, or money isn’t an option, then you could fly between destinations. All of the major cities of Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Malang all have airports, and you can fly internally within Java and to other Indonesian islands (and beyond for some airports). Of course flying like that won’t do anything for your carbon footprint, but if you’ve only got a 1 week Java Itinerary in place and want to see it all, then it is an option. Check Skyscanner for the best flights.  ‍
• Moped : One of our initial plans was to rent a moped in Bandung and hopefully drive it all over Java, unfortunately there are laws in the individual states that prevent you from taking a moped out of a particular area, so that dream was crushed! :P But when you are in each destination, you can easily rent a moped to get around. There are places to rent mopeds in all the places I’ve listed on this 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Grab : Grab is available all over the island of Java and it’s an easy way to get around each individual area. Whether you need a lift to your hotel from the train station, or to sights within the city centre, Grab is a great choice. 

I hope you’ve found this 10 day Java Itinerary useful and hopefully it will help you plan your trip! If you’ve got any questions then please drop me a comment below.  ‍

Read Also: 26 Best Things To Do In Java

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cassiethehag

Java Itinerary and 2-week Java Travel Guide

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

My Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide wraps up my entire Java travel guide series. I hope to give you a single, complete itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Throughout this Java itinerary guide, I have linked to personal comprehensive blog posts which focus on each place you will visit on the route. This is to avoid ending up with a very, very long blog post that is hard to navigate. Instead, I’ve provided thorough information in separate posts – so you can click through if you personally want more info!

To find the cheapest flight options from your city, you can use this search form below:

The Java itinerary focuses on spending one week in Central Java and one week in East Java. It mixes both must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-track, upcoming areas I’d never heard of until I started researching my trip. This Java solo backpacking route took me 16 days and is my favourite overall journey in six months of travelling Asia!

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION TO JAVA

Java has an immense history which led to its multicultural influences today. From Hinduism and Buddhism co-existing in the early centuries to the growth of Islam and then eventual Dutch colonisation, from whom Java claimed independence after WW2. Many ancient sights in Java are scarred yet still standing after being bruised by wars and earthquakes, yet remain unparalleled by attractions elsewhere in Indonesia.

Java is an economic hub and the most developed of Indonesia’s islands, making it easier to travel across than nearby Bali for non-scooter drivers. Surprisingly, I rarely saw another Westerner throughout my trip except at understandably crowded key sites .

JAVA IS PERFECT FOR BACKPACKERS

Solo travellers can rejoice in its public transport while adventurous backpackers will enjoy the scale of nature here. Spoiler alert: Java is EPIC.

Like Vietnam, Java is thin and long, making it easy to travel from East to West (or vice versa). I felt incredibly safe here as a solo traveller. Plus, I found incredibly clean, cheap hostels with the most helpful hostel hosts I’ve met . I would definitely recommend this as an Indonesian backpacker route.

There’s plenty to do for families, too, with highlights Bromo and Borobudur being easily accessible. In East Java, Tumpak Sewu is best skipped for an easier waterfall trek – but don’t worry, there’s plenty to choose from!

WHAT TO WEAR IN JAVA

Whilst Indonesia is a beautifully multicultural set of islands, Java is predominantly Muslim. The folk here are super friendly and not overly conservative, so you wouldn’t feel too uncomfortable wearing regular travel clothes. Note that the famous temples (such as Borobudur and Prambanan ) are NOT Muslim, and thus there are usually no clothing rules, but dress respectfully. Oh, and it gets very hot! So loose, long clothing is best. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for hiking too!

WHEN TO VISIT JAVA, INDONESIA

The dry season in Java is April to October, and temperatures can get very sticky after around 10am in the cities particularly. I highly recommend organising rest/travel days in Java on weekends, as it is highly populated, so attractions can get densely crowded with local tourists on weekends. Check for Indonesian holiday dates, too – most tourists in Java are local, so visiting big attractions on weekdays while the locals are at work is the best plan.

CURRENCY AND LANGUAGE

Indonesia Rupiah – prepare to be a millionaire. You will usually find locals who speak English in tourist hubs and accommodations. There are over 300 native languages in Indonesia, but you are most likely to hear Javanese here.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

169 countries can get a FREE 30-DAY Visa when getting into the airport – right? This can NOT be extended in the country.

An extendable visa (up to 60 days) costs 35 USD – you must get this at the airport BEFORE going through immigration when first arriving in Indonesia. It’s sign-posted and not too much hassle, aside from the queues. This is possible for visitors from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, much of the EU and UK, plus the USA.

You can usually arrange this visa in advance for a higher fee from an agency in your own country (such as STA Travel), but many people opt to use a visa agency in Indonesia to help them with the hassle of then confirming the extended visa.

Make sure your passport has at least six months left on it on any visa.

JAVA ITINERARY & 2-WEEK JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE

Below is my suggested holiday itinerary for 2 weeks in Java, combining its cultural heart, an unexpected paradise island, rainbow villages, epic volcanoes, and the most insane waterfall trek I’ve ever done!

CENTRAL JAVA ITINERARY

Arrive in yogyakarta.

You can fly into Yogyakarta from various transport hubs in Indonesia (including Jakarta and Bali), and there are cheap direct flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur .

Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport is around a 35-minute taxi ride from the city. You can also take a local train or bus from elsewhere in Java. You can book tickets in advance easily from 12Go Asia (or ask your accommodation to help if unsure) .

TIP: Download the ‘ Go-Jek ‘ app for car and scooter taxis – it’s like Uber but much cheaper!

YOGYAKARTA 3 DAYS)

Also commonly known and pronounced as ‘Jogjakarta’, this city is often considered the cultural heart of Java. It is a great place to begin your itinerary in Java and get your bearings. There are many traditional activities to discover here, and the palace is still home to the royal family – yep, there’s still a monarchy in Indonesia. Is anyone else utterly oblivious to this?

EXPLORE THE KRATON

The main area to explore in Yogyakarta city is called the ‘Kraton’, a group of palaces built for the sultans of Yogya . You could spend an entire day exploring here.

Entry cost to the grand palace : 12K IDR (around 1.2 AUD, 65p or 0.85 USD) .

Although it won’t blow you away like other palaces in Asia, an excellent reason to visit is that the cost includes traditional daily performances such as gamelan or puppetry.

‘ Tamansari ‘ was my favourite part of the Kraton to explore. Whilst this 18th-century ‘water palace’ looks worse for wear, the ticket also included entry to ‘Sumur Gumuling’, an underground mosque. It was fun walking around this area and exploring the tunnels. The unique location reminded me of Escher’s artworks – anyone else?

Cost: 12K IDR (1.2 AUD, 0.65 GBP, 0.84 USD)

There are also many museums in Yogyakarta. I would recommend Museum Sonobudoyo. It has English translations and many artefacts on display.

Cost: 10k IDR, 1 AUD, £0.54, 0.71 USD

Best of Yogyakarta

⭐ Get a closer look of the top destinations like Borobudur, Prambanan, Water Castle, and Sultan’s Palace during a private customizable full-day tour

TRADITIONAL PERFORMANCES AND LOCAL WORKSHOPS

Batik courses can be found around the Kraton area, a great way to meet locals and get stuck in with an immersive activity . Or head to Kota Gede , a district famous for silver, and see the silver artisans hard at work.

To see a traditional performance, there are many options around Yogyakarta to choose from. Museum Sonobudoyo is one option close to the city centre, which shows puppet shows (wayang kulit) at 8pm every day. It lasts 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the museum. Want to do something special? Watch a traditional Javanese ballet in the unforgettable setting of Prambanan, a vast Hindu temple just outside the temple. Read more information here: Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Tickets

FULL YOGYAKARTA TRAVEL GUIDE: This includes alternative activities and day trips, potential scams, my favourite places to eat and how to get around the city: https://cassiethehag.com/yogyakarta-guide/

BOROBUDUR & PRAMBANAN

The key reason to visit Yogyakarta is undoubtedly to see Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. It’s easy to combine this with Prambanan , a huge Hindu temple, in one day.

BOROBUDUR SUNRISE

The most common way to visit Borobudur from Yogyakarta is to do the sunrise tour. I highly recommend waiting to book this in Yogyakarta through your accommodation or local vendor as it will be much cheaper. Klook also offers an affordable combo tour online or through their app .

After being picked up from your accommodation, you will begin the day at Manohara around 04:40 to pick up the ticket, which is just a few minutes’ walk to the temple.

The sunrise ticket is ONLY available from Manohara . If you are on a tour, they will organise the ticket for you. https://manoharaborobudur.com/en-gb/

If you are going at the regular entrance time of 6am or after, you can just buy a standard ticket when you arrive.

COST OF BOROBUDUR SUNRISE TICKET: 475K IDR It is alternatively 350K IDR for Indonesian visitors. COST OF REGULAR TICKET (after 6am): 325K IDR COST OF A BOROBUDUR AND PRAMBANAN COMBINED TICKET: 520K IDR PRAMBANAN ONLY TICKET: 325K

Prambanan is a huge Hindu temple built around the 9th century, and unfortunately, several earthquakes damaged the structures.

Despite the piles of cordoned-off rubble, the main structures are still intact and impressive. I didn’t realise you could climb up the stairs and see into each structure. Each temple hides a different statue , usually a deity, so exploring these hidden treasures is fun.

BOROBUDUR FULL GUIDE: For four alternative ways to get to Borobudur and Prambanan depending on your budget, my personal experience and more detailed background information on these amazing sights, see here: https://cassiethehag.com/borobudur-sunrise-guide/

Where to stay in Yogyakarta?

Hostels: I stayed at Yogyakarta BnB Malioboro , walking distance from the palace, Museum Sonobudoyo, and plenty of cafes. I could also book tours and onward travel directly from my hostel – they were really helpful. From $5pn including breakfast for a dorm or from $7 for private rooms.

Budget: There are tons of cheap guest houses, but Hotel Graha Kinasih Kotabaru is among the best-reviewed, with air-conditioned rooms with terraces, laundry services, breakfast, and a 24-hour front desk. From $32pn.

Hotel: For air-conditioned rooms and an outdoor swimming pool to cool off, Eastparc Hotel Yogyakarta is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle. Facilities include a garden, restaurant, fitness centre, breakfast, and more. Lovely, air-conditioned rooms have a private balcony. From $105pn.

Eco: Yabbiekayu Eco-bungalows is a family-friendly holiday park. Stunning bungalows in a natural setting have open-air baths. Yoga and cooking classes are offered onsite and you can eat at the onsite restaurant. It’s a bit far from town, but they can arrange a driver for tours into the city and Borobudur.

TRAVEL DAY – YOGYAKARTA TO KARIMUNJAWA

I spent the afternoon resting after Borobudur as I had a crazy travel night ahead. I got picked up at 1130pm from my accommodation in Yogyakarta in a shared car that took me to Jepara Harbour. The following morning, I took a ferry to what is assuredly my favourite island I’ve visited so far on my travels…

It’s a bit complicated, and there are various options for getting to Karimunjawa. I’ve made a specific guide to help you figure out how to get there and book your ferry tickets: https://cassiethehag.com/how-to-get-to-and-from-karimunjawa-javas-paradise-island/

KARIMUNJAWA ISLANDS (3 DAYS)

The main reason to visit Karimunjawa is, essentially, the same reason most people HAVEN’T visited yet – it’s pretty hard to get to. When I first saw photos of Karimunjawa, I had my heart set on going there on my Java itinerary but was nervous about visiting as a solo traveller. Thankfully it was well worth the effort. I recommend spending at least three days in Karimunjawa to make the trip worthwhile . You’ll be glad you did. The island is a true Indonesian hidden gem !

GO SNORKELLING AND ISLAND HOPPING

I paid 200K IDR (20 AUD, 11.25 GBP, 4.16 USD) for my snorkelling trip – that cost is for 3 snorkel locations, lunch and island hopping. You will stop at at least 2 tiny uninhabited tropical islands – one on which they will make a fire and cook lunch for you (including veggie options). Totally magical, right? I booked through Bodhi Tree Hostel , my favourite hostel I’ve ever stayed in, and anyone is welcome to join.

TIP: make sure you avoid Javanese holidays (most of the tourists on Karimunjawa are locals), and you might be the only boat you see out on the ocean all day!

EXPLORE THE ISLAND BY SCOOTER

The cost to rent a scooter was 50K IDR (5 AUD, 2 GBP , 3.58 USD) for 6 hours – so cheap between two people! It will cost 75K IDR for a full day.

Head to Bukit Love Hill viewpoint – pictured below at sunset and only 10K for 3 entries. Then go to the Northern beaches for a tranquil, empty, sandy paradise beach – such as Batu Lawang Beach. Your accommodation can give you a map, but there’s like… one road on the island, haha. The palm trees and gorgeous mountains you’ll see on the way were my personal highlight!

DISCOVER DESERTED BEACHES

Whilst there are many beaches to choose from, and you can’t go wrong, the Western shores are a great place to spend an afternoon. They have names like Pokemon Beach and Barakuda Beach. Ask your accommodation to recommend a great beach as I reckon it changes a lot depending on the season and how busy it is.

Also worth a stop is Pantai Ulung Gelam (where I took the below sunset photo) or Pantai Batu Topeng – they’re right next to each other. Check with your accommodation the best spot for sunset, depending on the month you visit!

For full information about Karimunjawa, eco-travel advice, and many more activities, view my guide here:

Karimunjawa Guide – Costs, Example Itinerary & Things to Do

Where to stay in Karimunjawa?

Hostel: As mentioned before, I stayed in Bodhi Tree Hostel and absolutely loved it. With a restaurant, cute interior, and super friendly staff who will book island tours for you, it’s the best hostel I ever stayed in. Despite being so popular, it was quiet at night, too! Dorms from $5pn, private rooms from $16pn.

Hotel: Ayu Hotel Karimunjawa has absolutely gorgeous, air-conditioned rooms with garden views and a blend of Javanese and modern designs. Tours can be booked onsite. From $35pn.

Unique: For budget-friendly floating bungalows, Karimunjawa gives you the opportunity to live in luxury without the expense of the Maldives. Stay at the solar-powered Floating Paradise , overlooking the ocean and mountains from your terrace. Kayak from the pier or book tours and transport with your friendly hosts. From $72pn including breakfast and dinner.

TRAVEL – KARIMUNJAWA TO MALANG

There are many ways to get across the country from Karimunjawa to Malang … and they’re all a bit of a headache. Personally, I took a ferry from Karimunjawa to Jepara , a shared taxi from Jepara to Semarang Bus Station, a local bus from Semarang to Surabaya, annnnddd finally (after staying overnight and having a lie-in), a local bus from Surabaya to Malang .

If you value comfort and stability while travelling, then service of private transfer might be an excellent choice. Check out this option in Surabaya & Malang.

Once again, if you’re concerned about getting from Karimunjawa , there’s plenty of advice and reassurance in my guide here: How to get to and from Karimunjawa , Java’s Paradise Island

EAST JAVA ITINERARY

Yass, finally our Java holiday itinerary really gets going!! Yep, you heard that right. Borobudur and Karimunjawa aren’t even close to being the best of what Java offers!

I highly recommend incorporating rest days into the East Java travel guide. It’s full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences so make sure you’re not too tired to enjoy them all.

MALANG (3 DAYS)

I based myself in MALANG when first arriving in East Java. Malang is a fantastic access point for many attractions in East Java. You can easily reach Malang by share car, train or by arriving at its easily accessible bus station.

Before heading to East Java’s unique natural gems, in the town itself are three beautiful colourful villages you can check out during your stay.

KAMPUNG BIRU aka ‘BLUE VILLAGE’

The whole village was painted blue in support of the Malang football team! It’s worth taking time to walk around and spot all the gorgeous street art that’s on display.

KAMPUNG WARNA WARNI JODIPAN and KAMPUNG TRIDI aka ‘RAINBOW VILLAGE’

The entire village is painted in different colours, even the bridge that crosses the river and each individual step. From what I understand, this was a poor slum area. PR students from the University of Malang proposed this colourful initiative to a local paint company. They hoped tourism would positively affect the people who live here since they could sell snacks and entrance tickets.

Entry is only 3000 IDR to each village – that’s around just 0.30 AUD or 0.15 GBP!

Where to eat in Malang:

• the night market is a great budget option. I got veggie food here for 8K IDR .
• Local warungs will always have similarly budget options, or 20K – 30K IDR for a huge meal
• Java Dancer Coffee – I got pancakes here for 25k. Also, they had good Western coffee, and I could sit with my laptop for hours on end on my recommended rest day.

TEMPUK SEWU WATERFALL

(DAY TRIP FROM MALANG )

Before I arrived in Malang , I couldn’t work out how to get to Tumpak Sewu and highly doubted I’d make it. I’d seen photos of an incredible waterfall that was very much on my radar but seemed impossible to get to as a solo traveller. Thankfully, once I arrived in Malang, I realised it would be easy!

The trek down to Tumpak Sewu:

The trek is quite intense, with ladders attached to the mountainside and not a clear pathway. I recommend booking a local guide for the trek down if you’re not an experienced hiker or travelling alone. Tread very carefully and make sure ropes are correctly attached to the rock face before relying on them to hold your balance.

It’s worth the effort, though! Photos don’t do Tumpak Sewu Waterfall justice, particularly as the enormous amount of spray will drench not just yourself but also your phone camera! It was the closest I’ve got to feeling like I’d made it to a fantasy movie set, and it felt exhilarating to be up close to such a vast , roaring waterfall.

It’s also worth visiting Goa Tetes Waterfall while you’re there, as it’s about a 5-minute walk from the bottom of Tumpak Sewu ! It’s signposted .

Not done with waterfalls yet? Kipas Biru Waterfall is just a short drive away! This third waterfall is genuinely optional, and you may well find yourself done with trekking after Tumpak Sewu. It was steep to get down to Kipas Biru at times, but it was easier than the first trek as it felt much safer.

• If you’re solo, you can get a scooter driver/guide for the full day who will speak English and show you the best spots. He will take you to all three of the locations for 350K IDR . (Potentially negotiable.) Pricey but I think it’s great this option exists! You can book this in person through Malang Mador Hostel (amazingly friendly staff) or most likely elsewhere too
• Solo backpackers and groups alike can get a SHARED CAR – between all passengers this will be around 500-600K IDR . I’ve done many hikes but I gotta say I’m glad I had company on this one.

Where to rent a car?

Rentalcars is a service with user-friendly interface, affordable car prices and availability.

Tumpak Sewu is a 2.5-hour drive from Malang .

Full information on this three waterfall day trip, more info on how to get there and what the trek down is really like (including more photos) on my complete Tumpak Sewu guide and how to get there .

MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE

This is it, guys – my favourite activity in six months of exploring Asia, let alone on my Java itinerary. Have you ever wanted to see something so bad that you believe, when you finally do, it’ll never meet your expectations? Mt Bromo exceeded them.

WHY VISIT BROMO AT SUNRISE?

Bromo is 2300m high, but it is just one peak in an active volcanic complex known as Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The highest peak is Mount Semeru , at an enormous 3676m. Together, they form one of the most otherworldly landscapes you may ever see .

A shared rickety 4×4 jeep picked me up from my hostel at 3:30 am. Our first stop was to see the sunrise from Mount Penanjakan sunrise spot. Finally, I could fully appreciate how alien the volcanic peaks appeared under the morning glow, each jutting out from a flat plateau.

TIP: don’t fancy a tour? You can also DIY it. Check out my complete Bromo guide below. (Though I was happy with my chilled, budget tour as a solo traveller!)

MORE ACTIVITIES AT MOUNT BROMO:

After sunrise, I felt like I was on the moon while playing on the ‘sea of sands’. Finally, we relaxed at Bukit Teletubbies – this expanse of green felt so strange after the barren landscape before it!

Bromo was an UNFORGETTABLE experience. I’ve gone into a lot of detail about my whole personal experience in my dedicated Bromo post (where truly I wanted to keep my unforgettable memories of this place safe!), as well as giving you more information on how to book and what to prepare:

Mount Bromo at Sunrise – An Otherworldly Experience

If you wish to book a tour to visit Mount Bromo, you can see some examples here.

As impressive as Mt Bromo was, Java still had one more trick up its sleeve…

TRAVEL – MALANG TO BANYUWANGI

You can take a direct train for this route. Mine left Malang just before 4pm and arrived in Banyuwangi just before midnight. My hostel host kindly picked me up from the station. When arriving in Banyuwangi, get some rest after checking into your accommodation. Then book a tour to Mt Ijen or arrange transportation. From Banyuwangi , you will partake in your last Java activity…

IJEN SUNRISE HIKE

Uh, yeah, sorry, it’s another sunrise! Didn’t I mention the East Java itinerary was intense? But there’s more than one reason to hike up Ijen at night… it’s worth the early start to see the natural phenomenon of the blue flame.

Typically, you will leave Banyuwangi around midnight to make sure you have time to hike up the volcano to see both the blue flame and the sunrise over the sulfur crater. The natural phenomenon is caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases in contact with air at temperatures above 360°C, and you’ll be provided with a gas mask.

YOUR LAST SUNRISE IN JAVA:

You’ll then continue your hike up Mt Ijen to see the sunrise over the sulphur lake. The turquoise sulphur lake is 2148m above sea level and is the largest acidic lake in the world.

Tours can cost anything from 500000 IDR – 2500000 IDR (the most expensive often have an extra activity such as a waterfall).

For my personal experience hiking Mt Ijen and all the information you need to visit, you can read my complete guide here: HIKING IJEN AT SUNRISE – Travel advice for seeing a natural phenomenon – East Java

Here are some photos of what you can expect your last moments in Java to look like. Not bad, huh?

Where to say in Malang?

Onwards travel from banyuwangi.

Banyuwangi is the usual access point for Mt Ijen, and the town is accessible by ferry from West Bali or train throughout Java. If you’re starting a Java trip from this Eastern point (making this the first natural stop on your itinerary), the nearest airport is Semarang. You can book buses and trains to Banyuwangi from 12Go Asia .

HOW TO GET AROUND JAVA

Shared cars:.

You can usually book a seat on a shared car/minivan for travel between major destinations. Ask your accommodation if this is possible for getting to your next destination. I took a convenient shared car on my Yogyakarta – Karimunjawa route. Super handy!

PRIVATE CARS:

Suitable for those on a higher budget, this will give you complete control of your itinerary. You can book private cars for both day trips and multi-day trips. Prices will vary hugely depending on the distance/time required each day… and how comfortable you are with bartering with a local!

I found booking local bus journeys very easy, and they helpfully run to and from towns/cities throughout the country. I booked tickets directly at the bus stations. Buses tend to leave when full (but will fill up quick on routes between major cities).

It’s quite an experience, especially for journeys that could be many hours long! Prepare for cramped seats, locals jumping on and off the bus selling various items or even singing in the aisles… Don’t expect to get much sleep or see many other Westerners (I was the only backpacker on mine). That said, I recommend doing this at least once. I’m genuinely glad I did! A great budget option too.

Head to 12 Go to book onwards train journeys. A little more comfortable than the bus and still a great budget option. Perhaps cramped, but you’ll have your own reasonably comfortable seat.

ORGANISED TOURS:

A popular option for people coming from Bali (who often just do Bromo/ Ijen at a high cost) I’d recommend day tours but otherwise think they are unnecessary. Java is a beautiful , chaotic, friendly country, and there’s much to be gained by braving the local transport at least once!

Saying that, I DO recommend a day or even multi-day tour (if your budget allows) for part of your trip. With so many extensive travel days, it can help get an easy ride to Borobudur or Bromo! Particularly for solo travellers or families.

INNER CITY TAXIS:

I did small inner-city trips using go-jek when it was too far (or hot) to walk for as little as 3K IDR per journey – aka very cheap. Before you arrive, download the app, which is basically a super-budget Uber.

Day hire is easy for around 50/60K and is excellent for areas such as Karimunjawa or Yogyakarta. I do NOT recommend using scooters for the entire journey if you’re not experienced – you know Java is enormous, right? – or are solo travellers .

TRAVEL SUSTAINABLY IN JAVA

To avoid using plastic bottles in Southeast Asia , I used a Water To Go bottle.

The filters used in their BPA free water bottles are created based on technology originally developed for the NASA space programme. These provide safe water from any non-salt water source in the world.

Read more on their website and use the code HAG15 if you like what you see to get 15% off.

I really hope my 2 week Java itinerary was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. Thank you!

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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23 comments.

Amazing Java travel guide with stunning photos! I love Indonesia and have been curious about Java. Great job and Thank you!

Wonderful Java travel guide!! Indonesia is such a mystery to me. I look forward to be able to explore it all one day!! Great photos!

I haven’t explored much about Java or Indonesia. Looks beautiful for a couples getaway.

I’m embarrassed I have never heard of Java…nor did I know it is in Indonesia… your photos are beautiful and it motivated me to add Java to my list… looks like a lot of history and natural beauty- I’d spend most of my time outdoors!

Love this comprehensive Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide. So much to do and see…would love to hike here and explore the islands and deserted beaches especially.

Malang was so unique and there is SO much to see in Java/Indonesia for sure.

thanks so much Elle. I loved Java.

This is such a great guide and I love your photos! I really want to visit Kampung Biru.

Java looks amazing! I always hear people write about more common places in Indonesia, but I am so happy to read about somewhere different. Malang especially looks incredible – so colorful!

Ahh thank you, hope this comes in handy if you do

Aww thank you! I don’t think I’ve taken as good photos since ha ha

I really love how informative this post is. I’ve visited Bali in 2018 and would love to go back to Bali and visit Java during that time as well!

I’m really impressed with the quality of your photography – you have a real eye!

Indonesia is huge so totally understandable that we have to do it in bits ❤️

It was an awesome solo travel experience

Aw hope it comes in handy if you go x

This itinerary sounds amazing! Really wish I had more time when I was visiting Bali to make a trip out to Jakarta. Will have to make it happen next time.

Java has been on my list for long. You have given so much info Cassie. Thanks.

I visited Java, solo, a few years ago and loved it. It was such a great experience. Thank you for sharing it.

Bromo is somewhere soo worth the tourism because it is so epic it rises far above the crowds. Definitely recommend Java and Bromo!

Really hoping to make it here in 2020. Mount Bromo looks so exciting to me!

Ahh Melis, would be soo worth it if you were still in Asia! Xx

This place looks an absolute dream! If only I still lived a short flight away in Singapore. It seems like the kind of trip that has absolutely everything you could want – so much variety. Definitely one for the bucket list! Melis

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9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary

Home » Blog » Indonesia » 9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary

With volcanoes, waterfalls, and ancient temples, traveling around the Indonesian island of Java is an unforgettable adventure. We’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Java, plus we’re sharing insider tips and a perfect 1-week Java itinerary so all the planning is done for you!

When most travelers think of Indonesia, it’s Bali that comes to mind. It’s no secret that we love Bali . With its abundance of smoothie bowls, cheap massages and a vibrant culture, it is certainly worth a spot on your Indonesia trip.    

However, in a country consisting of more than 17,500 islands – each with its own unique draws – there is much, much more to this nation than just Bali. 

If you’re looking to escape the polished hipster vibes and touristy beaches sprinkled with Westerners sipping Bintang, we’ve got a place in mind for you…

Dotted with volcanoes, waterfalls and dense jungles, traveling around the island of Java, Indonesia is an adventure in itself. Mingle with locals without being just another tourist , and swap smoothie bowls for authentic street food. 

There are so many things to do in Java, foods to try, and cultural experiences to be had. But truthfully, it can be a bit daunting planning your trip to Java because there is less tourist infrastructure and far less information about it online. 

That’s where we come in… [Enter your personal Java trip planners… aka us!]

This article is not only going over the best things to do in Java, but also what to expect, how to get there, where to stay, how to plan your itinerary, and (most importantly!) which foods to try.

Java Indonesia Travel Guide

As we said, this is a full on travel guide packed with much more than just things to do. We’re covering all the bases and answering all the questions spinning around in your mind (been there!). So use the links below to jump around this article so you can plan an incredible trip to Java!

• Java overview

Best things to do in Java

• How to book tours in Java

How to get to Java

• Java 1-Week Itinerary
• Transportation around Java

(Hint: it’s very different from what we’d recommend packing for Bali!)

Java Indonesia overview

Java is a huge island that would take months to explore properly. But if you, like us, are limited in time and want a mix of culture, nature and adventure, the best region to focus your travels on is East Java. 

For the purpose of this article, we’re going to focus solely on the region of East Java. Additionally, we’re narrowing it down to locations that you can realistically visit in one week in Java. 

What to expect in Java:

Transportation between cities can be long and uncomfortable

Even if cities don’t look that far apart on a map, travel between them to take longer than you expect. Seriously. (don’t trust the timings on Google Maps)

Outside of Yogyakarta, the hotels and restaurants you’ll find around Java tend to be quite basic  

Lots of early mornings! (Many of the places to see in East Java require you to wake up before the sunrise.)

Little nightlife. Java is a Muslim majority island (like most of Indonesia), and therefore you won’t find nearly as much nightlife (or alcohol, for that matter) as you will on the Hindu island of Bali.

Locals often want to get photographs with Westerners, since tourists are less of a norm.

Java vs. Bali:

Far cheaper than Bali

Much less crowded than Bali

Less tourist infrastructure

English is not as widely spoken as on the island of Bali

What types of travelers will enjoy Java

Java is a destination that some travelers will love, while others may not be so keen. 

You’ll love Java if…

…you consider yourself an adventurous, experienced traveler or someone who wants to escape crowds and touristy spots, East Java will be your jam! 

Java might not be for you if…

…you prefer to be pampered and aren’t about roughing it in any way, shape or form, Java may not be your cup of Joe (see what I did there?). 

If you’re still reading, we’ll assume you’re one of those travelers who will enjoy Java Indonesia and will enjoy the unique and adventurous travel experience you’ll find on this island.

We’re here to narrow down the best things to do in East Java and provide you with all the info you need to plan your trip.

These 9 things to do in Java should be “musts” on your list (they are the best of the best!). They are also in a perfect order for traveling east from Yogyakarta to Bali and can all be fit into a one-week trip.

So let’s dive in!

Note: The order in which these activities are listed is actually a really good travel route. At the bottom of this article, we’re sharing a sample Java itinerary to further help you plan your trip!

1. Experience culture in Yogyakarta

Known as the “cultural center” of Java, Yogyakarta is a city that has an undeniable magnetic charm. 

Yogyakarta is the foodie destination on Indonesia’s most populated island. In addition to being a culinary hotspot, Yogyakarta has a thriving art scene, cute cafes and bars, strong religious roots, and some of Indonesia’s most iconic temples.

But first things first: Let’s make sure you know how to pronounce the name of this city. It’s easy to get it wrong, and it is embarrassing when the locals correct your mispronunciation. I speak from experience!

Let’s say it together: JOHG-ja-kart-ah 

There are so many things to do in Yogyakarta that we wrote an entire article about how to spend your time there. But here are a few “must do’s”:

check out the street art

eat your way through this foodie city

people watch on Malioboro Street once the sun sets

shop for batik fabric (this is the place to get it!)

Oh, and while you’re in “Jogja” (that’s what the locals call it), you can’t miss the two most famous draws of this Indonesian city. The next two points describe each of them in detail… 

2. Catch the morning light at Borobudur Temple

There’s a good chance that you’ve seen pictures of Borobudur Temple, even if you didn’t know it. This beauty is an Instagram favorite, and for good reason. It is a spectacular sight to behold. 

One of our very favorite parts about traveling is finally stepping foot somewhere we’ve been dreaming and planning about for years. And at Borobudur, I had one of those moments where I had to pause and let it sink in that I was really there.

While the island of Java is predominantly Muslim, this Buddhist Temple one of the most-visited attractions in Indonesia, and is a “must” for most travelers.

Wander past the bell-shaped pagodas on the top level of the temple, each of which has a Buddha statue inside. And as the morning light casts a glow over the misty fields that lie before you, you’ll understand why this place gets so much hype.

Lucky for you, we’ve put together a guide to visiting Borobudur Temple , including what to wear, how to get there, and how to save money on your entrance ticket!

3. Sunset at Prambanan

While this temple is certainly less famous than Borobudur, it is still incredibly impressive.

Often compared to Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat, this Hindu temple complex bears a striking resemblance to its more well-known doppelgänger.

Explore this complex, taking in all the details, like the hand-carved reliefs that depict Hindu legends, and imagine you’ve stepped back in time as the golden hour glow envelopes the temple grounds.

Psst! We have a guide devoted to everything you need to know about visiting Prambanan Temple .

4. Go on a food tour with a local

We’re obsessed with food (maybe a little too much?), and we’ve found the best way to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible is by going on a food tour.

Yogyakarta is known as a “foodie city” and there are so many foods to try that you’ve likely never heard of like bakmi and gudeg .

Quite honestly, it would be kind of tricky to navigate the cuisine without the help of a local, so we would highly recommend booking a tour with Backstreet Academy . 

5. Go underground in Jomblang Cave

If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s your chance! Not far outside the city center is a cave that hold a magical secret…

Each day for a short period of time, a light streams into the dark cavern from a hole in the cave’s “ceiling”. This creates a glowing beam of light that seems almost unreal.

This whole caving experience is quite the adventure, as you’ll be lowered into the cavern by a team of 30 local men and boys holding your rope, and you’ll then explore the cave through knee-deep mud. Channel your inner Indiana Jones (we’ve all got one!), and prepare for a wild experience.

Are you intrigued? Read more about how to book a Jomblang Cave tour and what to expect in our Yogyakarta guide . (It’s #5 on the list.)

6. Feel tiny at Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls

If you have a thing for waterfalls a) we’d make great friends because we’re also obsessed and b) you NEED to put Tumpak Sewu Waterfall on your Java itinerary. It is absolutely mind blowing.

We’ve seen a lot of waterfalls on our travels, and this onedefinitely stands out as one of our favorites. This U-shaped waterfall is massive and is one of those rare places where you can’t quite believe your eyes.

But before you hop in a car headed for Tumpak Sewu, a word of warning. Getting to this waterfall requires a bit of work and an adventurous attitude.

Read More: Lucky for you, we’ve got all the details of how to get to Tumpak Sewu as well as what to expect so you don’t have to do the confusing guess work like we did!

7. Wander through Malang’s “Rainbow Village”

While the main reason tourists stay in Malang is because it makes a good base for adventures outside the city such as Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Mount Bromo, there is a lesser-known attraction that should definitely be on your radar.

The neighborhood of Kampung Warni Warna was once considered one of the most impoverished slums in the entire country. Residents were on the verge of being kicked out so developers could come in and revive the area until some local university students had a creative idea…

They thought if they could make this neighborhood beautiful through the use of art, they could attract domestic and foreign travelers who would pay a fee to see a “rainbow village”. Their plan worked, and now residents have opportunities to generate income, living conditions have been improved, and dignity has in many ways been restored.

It is a really neat place to explore while in Malang, so read up our guide to visiting Kampung Warni Warna and pack your camera!

8. Sunrise at Mount Bromo

Seeing sunrise over Mount Bromo is on most Java itineraries, and for good reason. It is pretty damn spectacular.

Mount Bromo is an active volcano that looks like something out of a movie. It’s actually pretty much the perfect “cartoon volcano” — the epitome of what we all think volcanos should look like.

That said, you won’t be enjoying the sunrise in solitude. Along with Ijen Crater (#9 on this list), this is likely the spot where you will find the most tourists — both Indonesian travelers and foreign — during your entire time on the island.

As long as you’re prepared to share this incredible sunrise with many others, we think you’ll really enjoy the experience.

Pssst! Read up on our guide to seeing sunrise at Mount Bromo so you know what to pack and what to expect!

9. See the “Blue Flame” at Ijen Crater

This is another early morning, but my oh my, is it ever worth it! In all our travels, we’ve never been to a place even remotely similar to Ijen, and that’s because this place is truly one of a kind. 

To begin with, this is a volcano inside which is a crater lake that water unlike any body of water you’ve ever seen. The milky turquoise color of the water is almost eerie and is indicative of its extremely high acidity levels. In fact, this lake is the largest acidic lake in the world. But that’s not all that makes it unique…

At the edge of the lake, is a concentration of sulfur so dense that there is a working sulfur mine, and as you get near the lake, you’ll see the hard-working miners going about their (literally) back-breaking work.

Plus, you’ll also be able to (hopefully) view the illusive Blue Flame , which is a natural phenomenon which can only be viewed at two places on earth: at Ijen Crater and in Iceland.

Keep reading: There’s sooo much more we want to say about Kawah Ijen ( kawah means “crater”), so if you’re planning a trip to Java, be sure to check out our complete guide to visiting Ijen Crater , which is packed with insider tips!

Java Travel Guide

Alright, now that you’ve got a killer list of 9 epic things to do in Java, we hope you’re ready to start planning your trip. When we were planning our own trip to Java, we had so many questions that we couldn’t find the answers to online.

So to make sure that doesn’t happen to you, we’ve rounded up all the things we wish we would have known to hopefully help you plan an epic trip of your own!

Java Travel Tips

How to book tours in java.

Java 1-week Itinerary

Yogyakarta Travel Tips

Malang travel tips, banyuwangi travel tips, transportation in java.

What to pack for Java

Carry your own toilet paper: Many of the toilets around Java are squat style and require a bucket to flush. Also, many do not have toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to pack some in your purse or backpack.

Avoid ice: If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid getting ice in your drinks, as it may cause you to get sick.

Download Google Maps: We had an Indonesian SIM card (which is really cheap). However, it’s a good idea to download your Google Maps so you can access them when you don’t have good cell signal or Wi-Fi.

Dress a little more conservatively: In Bali, you’ll be surrounded by other travelers wearing bikinis and revealing dresses, but the island of Java has far fewer tourists. And in general, the Islamic community is more conservative when it comes to dress. Cover your shoulders and knees as much as possible (at least when you’re going to temples or holy sites).

Get local currency: While it’s possible to pay with credit cards at most hotels or upscale restaurants, most local shops will prefer cash. We get the best exchange rates by withdrawing money from ATMs using our Charles Schwab debit card which reimburses all ATM fees!

Read more about our favorite travel credit cards here !

One thing we were a bit nervous about when traveling to Java was how we were going to book our tours. We had a very tight time frame, and the attractions like Ijen Crater, Mount Bromo and the temples in Yogyakarta were the reasons why we were traveling to Java.

There just wasn’t much info about booking tours in Java online. And because we had limited time and didn’t want to miss out on anything, so we messaged out guesthouses in the respective cities ahead of time to try to make a reservation. 

In both cases, they told us to wait until we got there which was a bit unsettling, but in our experience we arranged most activities in Java through our guesthouses upon our arrival for the following day.   

However, if waiting until the last minute makes you uncomfortable, we are also sharing tour companies through which you can make your bookings ahead of time so you don’t have to book anything during your trip.

Yogyakarta Food Tour: Backstreet Academy

Jomblang Cave: Backstreet Academy

Borobudur & Prambanan Temples: Backstreet Academy

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Ask your hotel in Malang

Mount Bromo: Get Your Guide (multi-day tour including Ijen Crater)

Ijen Crater: Get Your Guide (multi-day tour including Mount Bromo)

Good to know: High season in Java is May – November; and for reference, we traveled to Java at the end of July 2019. Read more on what time of year is best to visit Indonesia for a more detailed description of what weather to expect during your trip. 

How to Get to Java

If you are coming from Bali , you have two options of getting to Java.

Take a short (and typically cheap!), 45-minute flight from Denpasar to Yogyakarta . Alternatively, you can fly into Surabaya, but this would mean you’d miss the cultural wonders of Yogyakarta (which we would highly suggest you don’t skip).

Take a shuttle bus to the very western part of Bali where you will then catch a ferry to Banyuwangi. After landing in Java, it is a short, 15-minute ride, and you will land in the town that is the base for visiting Ijen Crater (aka Banyuwangi). 

To maximize your time, we’d suggest one of the following routes:

a) West to East: Fly to Yogyakarta, travel east, take a ferry back to Bali. (This is the route we took, and this article reflects that order.)

b) East to West: Ferry to Banyuwangi, travel west to Yogyakarta, fly back to Bali (or your next destination).  

Not flying? If you’re trying to lessen your carbon footprint *virtual high five!*, it is possible to take a ferry to and from Java. However, you will need more than one week in order to hit all the spots on this list and circle back to Banyuwangi.

East Java 1-week Itinerary

We had 6 days on this island, and absolutely packed it full. We’d recommend 7-8 days to fit all of these activities in, but it can be done with 6 minimum (but it will be very packed!).  

Yogyakarta: 3 nights (#1 – 4 on this list) 

Take a night train or night bus from Yogyakarta to Malang

Trains leave Yogyakarta daily at 7:45 AM and 20:45 PM. The trip take about 8 hours.

Tickets cost around 180,000 IDR ($12 USD) per person

Talk to your hotel in booking a train at least one day in advance

Malang: 2 nights (#5 -7 on this list)

Take a evening train from Malang to Banyuwangi

3 Trains leave Malang daily at 15:50, 16:05 and 16:32. The trips take about 7 hours

Tickets cost around 62,000 IDR ($4 USD) per person

Banyuwangi: 1 night (#8 on this list)

Note: You can flip this itinerary and start in Banyuwangi and go in reverse.

Things to keep in mind…

Even distances that look close on a map can take a long time to cover because of the traffic and poor road conditions on this island, so keep that in mind as you plan your itinerary. 

Also, many of the major attractions in Java require really early wake-up calls (think midnight!), so you’ll need to account for this as you’re planning your trip as well. 

If you’re traveling from Bali, it’s important to know that Java is in a different time zone. It is 1 hour behind Balinese time. 

This charming city is full of cultural experiences and some of the best food you’ll try during your time in Java. Yogyakarta also has the best accommodation options out of all the cities you’ll stay in. 

Things to do in Yogyakarta

Experience Java’s cultural capital by checking out the street art, visiting the Sultan’s palace, and learning about batik. (#1 on this list)

Explore the Buddhist temple of Borobudur . (#2 on this list)

Visit Prambanan Temple, a Hindu complex that is reminiscent of Angkor Wat. (#3 on this list)

Go on a food tour with a local . (#4 on this list)

Go caving at Jomblang Cave . (#5 on this list)

Where to stay in Yogyakarta

This city has the best hotel options of all the places on this itinerary, and there are plenty to choose from.

Budget Stays:

Nextdoor Homestay : We loved our stay at Nextdoor Homestay, which was made especially nice with a small but sunny pool, amazing staff who were super helpful, and a delicious breakfast. 

Good Karma Yogyakarta : Centrally located and with excellent reviews, this hostel is a good option for budget travelers. They have private double rooms or 6-person dorm rooms to choose from, a beautiful terrace and a bicycle rental option.

Otu Hostel By Ostic : One of the best features of this adults-only hostel is the outdoor pool area, which is key to surviving the mid-day heat in Java. Start your day with an a la carte or Asian style breakfast and let the 24-hour staff help you plan your excursions.

Mid-Range Stays:

The Alana Hotel & Conference Center Malioboro : This modern hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta is just a 10-minute walk from the historic Sultan’s Palace.The property also features an onsite restaurant serving up Indonesian and Western cuisine, and an outdoor pool.

Hotel Indies Heritage Prawirotaman : Located right on Prawirotaman street, this modern hotel has all the amenities for a comfortable stay in Yogyakarta such an an outdoor pool, air conditioned rooms and an on-site restaurant.

Jogja Village : Right in the heart of Prawirotaman area, this environmentally friendly hotel is decorated with colorful Javanese-style interiors and surrounded by lush gardens. Other features of the property include an outdoor pool and open-air dining area.

Where to eat in Yogyakarta

Cafe ViaVia: This is a popular backpacker hangout and with a large menu of local and Western dishes including lots of healthy and vegan options, it’s easy to see why. They also have a fair trade gift shop next door and offer cooking classes.

Warung Heru: Home-cooked Javanese dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Just Playon: Fun bar vibes and a Western-centric menu.

Nanamia Pizza: Italian restaurant with a cute backyard patio area for seating.

Hungry Nomad Vegan Resto: Great option for those seeking plant-based meals.

Sop Merah: Local hot spot for Javanese style soups.

ARKADIA: An “Instagrammable” cafe with cocktails, coffee and Western dishes. Sometimes there are art exhibits here too.

Keep Reading: Our Yogyakarta guide goes over many more accommodation options. In that article you’ll also find some of the best places to eat in Yogyakarta (important stuff!) and lots more things to do.

The city of Malang itself isn’t all that interesting. The main reasons to stay here are that it makes a good base for lots of activities outside the city, like Mount Bromo and Tumpak Sewu. You can also visit the “rainbow village” of Kampung Warni Warna while you’re in Malang.

Alternative: Another city that is close to many of the same attractions is Problingo. After doing some research, we landed on Malang because while still pretty basic, there were better hotel options and we wanted to see Kampung Warni Warna , which we would have missed had we stayed in Problingo.

Things to do in Malang

Take a day trip to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall . (#6 on this list)

Wander around the rainbow village of Kampung Warni Warna . (#7 on this list)

See sunrise at Mount Bromo on a “Jeep tour” . (#8 on this list)

Where to stay in Malang

Quite honestly, you won’t have all that many great choices for accommodation in Malang. And you won’t be spending all that much time in your hotel anyway, since most of the things to do are day trips outside the city. 

INNI Homestay : We did a lot of hunting for a guesthouse, and landed on INNI Homestay. We could not recommend it more highly. It feels more like a homestay than a hotel, and the mother-daughter duo who run this place make you feel like family. They arranged all of our activities for us and made our super tight schedule come together!

Hotel Santika Premiere Malang : If you want a more traditional accommodation, this 4-star hotel has a great location with a outdoor pool. Each room had air-conditioning and breakfast is included.

Where to eat in Malang

Gloria’s Noodles: A friend recommended this place to us, and it sure delivered. The atmosphere isn’t anything too special, but the noodle soups (with their famous homemade noodles) are excellent. 

Taman Indi Resto: For an upscale meal in Malang, it’s hard to beat Taman Indi, which was also very conveniently located near our homestay. We absolutely spoiled ourselves with fancy (non-alcoholic) drinks, an appetizer, and entrees, and spent just over $18 USD in total. So even though it’s an upscale experience, it is still very affordable. 

Night Market: around 6:30-ish the night market starts to open and you’ll find lots of different options for cheap street food.

Things to do in Banyuwangi

Hike to Ijen Crater for sunrise (#9 on this list).

Relax at a hotel pool.

Take a day trip to the stunning beaches on Tabuhan Island and Menjangan Island.

Where to stay in Banyuwangi

Banana Homestay : We stayed at Banana Homestay and felt incredibly welcomed by the husband and wife who run this place. We were very hungry when we arrived late at night, and they even drove us on motorbike to their favorite noodle shop. They also let us borrow warm jackets for our Ijen Crater hike. Seriously kind people. The accommodation itself is basic, and there is no hot water in the shower, but it was just fine for our short stay.

Snooze Hostel : This place is brand new, and had it been open during our visit we probably would have chosen to stay here. With a beautiful design, many room options, and rave reviews, this looks like a good choice for many types of travelers. 

Terima Kai Guest House : This is another guesthouse that has opened since our stay, and it looks really comfortable, nicely designed and affordable. 

Didu’s Homestay Bed & Breakfast : This popular spot books up fast and is known for great hospitality, a nice breakfast, and boho bungalow vibes!

If you have a bit more of a budget to work with and are looking for a hotel with a pool, we’ve got a few options for you!

Villa Solong : If you’re looking to splurge (and by splurge, we’re still looking at under $100, but it is still significantly more expensive than most accommodation in the city), Villa Solong would be our pick. 

El Hotel Royale : This large resort-type accommodation has a pool and massive dining area. For the reasonable rates, it looks like a good choice for those seeking a larger hotel on their stay.

Ketapang Indah Hotel : Beachside hotel with a pool and affordable rates. Some rooms appear to be quite nice while the less expensive rooms look pretty basic. 

There are a few different ways to get around in Java. Being the largest island in Indonesia, there is a pretty good rail system that connects major cities (like all of the ones above). However, the train departure times are not always the ideal, but hey, this is Java and it’s more about the adventure.

Java Train tips:

There are three train classes you can book: Economy, Business, and Executive class:

Economy: thin padded bench seats that face each other

Business: padded bench seats that all face the same direction with slight recline, power outlets, air conditioning

Executive: similar to airplane coach seats with legroom, seats recline, power outlets and lots of air conditioning.

For the long train rides, we would recommend getting Executive class seats because you’ll be much more comfortable and it’s really not that more expensive. We booked late and had Business class for 8 hours overnight from Jogja to Malang and it was not the best night’s sleep.

Lights are always on, even overnight

There are racks above your seat where you can put your luggage.

East Java is fairly safe to travel, but you can never be too careful. That’s why we typically lock our bags to the rack with wire combo locks .

Purchase your tickets online at Tiket.com (you can have your hotel staff help you get the right trains)

Note: Prices will vary depending on the time you depart.

Once your train is booked online, you’ll need go to a kiosk at the station to print off your paper boarding pass. Be sure to have your booking number ready to enter or scan.

Getting around within cities in Java

Take a taxi

If you arrive in Java without cell service, your best bet is to take an airport taxi into town. There are stands near the exit where you will tell them your destination and pay in exchange for a ticket. You will be assigned to a taxi and you will hand your ticket to the driver. Once you’ve made it to town, we’d suggest other ways of getting around as they will be cheaper.

Grab or Go-Jek

If you have cell service, skip the taxi booths and instead book a ride through Grab or Go-Jek (ride-sharing apps in Indonesia). Both apps are great, however, we noticed slightly cheaper rates on Grab. Rideshare apps are also just a good way to get around town.

Take a becak (cycle rickshaw)

This is another way to get around town and is a more unique experience! 

Rent a motorbike

Before we even start with this one, we would only recommend renting a motorbike in Java if you have experience driving a scooter. Java isn’t a bad place for driving a motorbike, but it’s not the best place to learn. But if you are confident, it is really nice to be able to drive yourself to Borobudur and Prambanan Temples and explore the small villages outside of the city.

Safety advice: Always, always wear a helmet. We see way too many travelers going without them and it makes us cringe. We know of far too many people who have gotten seriously injured on motorbikes in Asia, so why would you risk it?! Also, look into your travel insurance policy to see whether or not you’d be covered in the case of an accident. 

Hire a driver

When trying to get to the sites outside of the city (the temples, etc.), the best way to get around if you’re not comfortable driving yourself is to hire a driver. It is actually a very affordable service and they can bring you to several places throughout the day, maximizing your time. You can arrange a driver through most hotels or guesthouses in Java. 

What to Pack for Java

Traveling in Java is a different story than lounging around Bali, and it requires a pretty different packing list. That bikini-and-kimono combo just won’t cut it in Java. 

Read our suggested items below so help you prepare for your trip:

Warm clothing for early morning hikes: Jacket, Gloves, Hat. It gets seriously cold up there. We were pretty unprepared for our trip to Java. We had been living in Bali for the 3 months prior to our trip and really didn’t have any warm clothing. We were so lucky our guesthouse owners let us borrow clothing because damn it was COLD. (And we’re from Minnesota, where we’re used to freezing temperatures!)

Portable Battery Charger

Shoes that are suitable for hiking

Lightweight clothes that are on the more conservative side. This is a Muslim country, remember, and it’s important that you cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples or holy spaces. But it’s also worth mentioning that it can get very hot during the day, so you’ll want to be sure you pack outfits that will be comfortable in the heat.

Healthy snacks. If you’re coming from Bali, grab some granola, trail mix, or other healthy snacks to munch on during your long drives and early morning hikes. Outside of fresh fruit, we found it more difficult to find healthy snacks.

Book or Kindle for long transportation

Rain jacket

Reusables: We put together a packing list of our favorite eco-friendly items that we always carry on us to reduce the amount of waste we create on our travels. Java, in our experience, has a pretty big issue with single-use plastics, so packing these items will help you say no to unnecessary waste.

You may also like…

We have TONS more resources on Java, so if you’re planning an Indonesia trip , you’ll definitely want to check out our other articles too!

Fun Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Java

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Essential Guide to Java’s Best Waterfall

Visit Malang’s Colorful Rainbow Village: Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan

Kawah Ijen Crater Sunrise Hike + Blue Flame

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We want to hear from you!

Is Java on your radar? What questions do you still have? What things to do in Java do you want to see? Comment below and we’ll do our best to answer!

Comments (10) on “ 9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary ”

Thank you so much for all of this incredible information. Much appreciated.

Thanks for this detailed article about Java ! As a javanese myself, I highly appreciated it ! There are so many hidden gems on this island that most tourists overlook 🙂

I am planning to take a train from Yogyakarta to Banyuwangi in a few weeks. I was curious if there is food or snacks on the train? Thanks!

I’m so glad I found this post and you guys. My fiance and I are going on a month long adventure in Indonesia for our honeymoon and want to ride across Java on a motorbike. (He drives a vespa exclusively in LA so he has experience!)… We will definitely be using this post as our guide. Thanks!! And happy adventuring!

What an incredible post on cool things to do in Indonesia beyond Bali! I had no idea that there were volcanos in Java honestly, definitely makes me want to visit soon. Saving for later!

SO many volcanoes! Wed love to go back and see even more of the (massive) island!

This sounds like my kind of place! That rainbow village seriously looks so cool. Really hoping I’ll still be able to go there sometime this year, I’ll definitely be saving this post for when I do ?

The "rainbow village" was amazing! I hope you’re able to visit someday!

Thanks so much for shedding light on other parts of Indonesia other than Bali! While all are beautiful, it’s refreshing to see 🙂 I love your photos as well!

Thank you so much, Alexandra! We feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface of Indonesia. It is such a beautiful country with a vibrant culture and friendly people and we can’t wait to get back and see more!

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1-Week Java Itinerary: Temples, Waterfalls, & Volcanoes

Java, the most populated island of Indonesia, is home to some of the most incredible volcanic landscapes in the world. Central Java and East Java are a must for your Indonesia itinerary.

The smoking craters at Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen have become famous tourist destinations in Java, but this island is also dotted with jungles, ancient temples, and waterfalls galore.

This 1-week East Java itinerary will guide you through some of the unmissable highlights of Java that we visited on our first trip through the area, starting in Central Java and ending in west Bali.

You can click the links for more information on each of these sights as you go!

✈ Where To Start

The starting point of this Java itinerary is Yogyakarta in central Java, Indonesia .

Fly to Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), which is served by a bunch of budget friendly airlines with good ratings. AirAsia often has flights from Singapore (SIN) or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Yogya for 1 million Rupiah ($70 USD), or flights from Bali (DPS) for only 600k Rupiah ($40).

You can shop for flights to Yogyakarta at Skyscanner.

You can also do this itinerary in reverse if you’d like, starting with the Bali ferry ride and then ending in Yogyakarta. The whole process will be largely the same!    

• Day 1: Dieng Plateau

  Kick off your Java sightseeing with a full day trip to Dieng Plateau in the volcanic highlands west of Yogyakarta, starting from town in the early morning hours to get there in time for an epic sunrise on Sikunir hill.

After the sunrise, go see the sulfuric lakes, hill terraces, smoking hot springs, and some of the oldest surviving temples on the island of Java.

More info: Dieng Plateau  

Dieng Plateau

Sunrise on Sikunir hill

• Day 2: Prambanan & Borobudur Temples

○ prambanan temple.

Spend the morning exploring Prambanan, a group of massive Hindu temple ruins near Yogyakarta city in central Java. This temple is less famous than its cousin Borobudur, but I actually like this one best.  

○ Borobudur Temple

Move on to Borobudur, a big 9th century Buddhist temple that is a bit further outside Yogya and is famous as the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Side note: you can swap the order of Borobudur and Prambanan on this day if you want to see the sunrise at Borobudur.  

Prambanan Temple

Borobudur Temple

• Day 3: Train To Malang

Take the 7:45 AM train from Yogyakarta Stasiun to Malang.

The train ride takes 8 hours and costs 170k Rupiah (~$12 USD) per person. Book your tickets online at Tiket.com or the KAI website , and then scan the e-ticket when you reach the station.

This train ride was actually one of my favorite parts of the trip! It’s comfy, scenic, and enjoyable. You get A/C and food, and some amazing views of the Java countryside.  

• Day 4: Malang Waterfalls

○ tumpak sewu waterfall.

Start your day at the most impressive waterfall in Indonesia, Tumpak Sewu. The best lighting for photos is early in the morning, and it’s a 2 hour drive from Malang, so you’ll need to get a very early start!  

○ Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

From Tumpak Sewu, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kabut Pelangi. This is a huge waterfall worth the 45 minute hike!  

○ Kapas Biru Waterfall

From Kabut Pelangi, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kapas Biru waterfall. This one is a short 30 minute hike, but the waterfall at the end is incredibly scenic.  

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

Kapas Biru Waterfall

• Day 5: Coban Pelangi + Drive To Mount Bromo

○ coban pelangi waterfall.

This is a cool side trip you can do before the drive to Bromo. Coban Pelangi waterfall is a hidden beauty, located in the mountains 1 hour east of Malang.  

○ Drive From Malang To Mount Bromo

Drive from Malang to Cemoro Lawang (the village at Mount Bromo). The distance from Malang is only 130 kilometers (80 miles), but be prepared for it to take 3+ hours. Get to bed early so you can be ready for Bromo!

Mount Bromo is one of the main highlights of this East Java itinerary, so you’ll want to do it justice.  

Coban Pelangi Waterfall

Volcano X-ing

Before the sunrise

• Day 6: Mount Bromo Sunrise + Drive To Banyuwangi

○ mount bromo sunrise.

Wake up early and hike or drive to the sunrise viewpoint for Mount Bromo. Seeing these smoking volcano craters at the crack of dawn is a bucket list experience you’ll never forget.  

○ Drive From Bromo To Banyuwangi

Drive from Bromo to Ijen (homestay nearby is best). The distance from Bromo to Ijen is 230 kilometers (140 miles) and the drive takes a whopping 6+ hours.  

Sunrise At Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo

• Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater + Ferry To Bali

○ kawah ijen crater.

Wake up early and hike to the Ijen Crater. It’s a tough hike and you have to start very early if you want to see the blue fire (optional), or at least get there by golden hour for the best photos.  

○ Ferry To Bali

Cross from Java to Bali with the ferry at Ketapang. The trip takes 30-60 minutes and only cost us 8k Rupiah (less than one US Dollar) per person since we weren’t bringing any vehicle with us.

In Bali, you can book a private driver in advance to pick you up at the port (recommended), or you can negotiate for one when you land at the port. Either way, there will be an extra charge for drivers here, since the port is a long drive from the main tourist areas of Bali and it’s outside of most drivers’ normal service areas.

Welcome to Bali ! The adventure is just getting started!  

Kawah Ijen crater lake

Ferry To Bali

When Is The Best Time To Visit Java?

The best time to visit Java is from April to November, when it’s more sunny and dry.

The rainy season runs from November to April. You can go during this time, but it may not be ideal for the waterfalls or sunrises.  

Our East Java Driver

Starting from Malang (Day 3), we had a driver from Zaini Transport for the rest of the trip. He took us to all the waterfalls on this East Java itinerary, plus Mount Bromo and Ijen , and finally dropped us at the Bali ferry.

His daily price at Malang was 400k Rupiah + petrol, which worked out to be 620k Rupiah ($44 USD) for a full day visiting 3 waterfalls in Lumajang, then driving back to comfy Malang. His Bromo/Ijen rate was a little higher, but still the lowest I could find anywhere!

Our driver Dayat was punctual and very familiar with the area, so we had no trouble finding the waterfalls or other sights on this East Java itinerary. Highly recommended and much cheaper than booking a full tour package!  

• Mount Bromo Volcano Sunrise – Complete Travel Guide
• Kawah Ijen Crater Lake – Complete Travel Guide
• Best Hikes In Indonesia – Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls
• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide – Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Indonesia Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Photos

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From the Bali ferry what and how did you get the transport, and how much it cost ? Thanks

Hi Mihai. From the Bali ferry we arranged a private driver in advance, and he took us back to south Bali. You can book this on Klook , but make sure to mention that you will need pickup at the port in Gilimanuk. There will be an extra charge since it’s a long drive and the port is outside of most drivers’ normal service areas. Expect to pay 700k Rupiah or more for the drive, although you can ask them to show you places on the way. It’s also possible to negotiate for a driver once you arrive at the port in Bali, but I think it’s normally better and cheaper to arrange it in advance. Cheers

What would you say is a reasonable price for the whole itenery starting in malang with a driver. Including all tickets, fees and accomandation? I got an offer from the comapany you mentioned but it seems pretty highy.

Hi Hendrik. I would say maybe 3 to 5 million Rupiah for 3-4 days of driving and petrol, but it would definitely be higher if you include entrance fees and accommodation. I’m not sure what is a fair price in that case, since we paid for our tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. Cheers

Hello! Did you guys hike bromo or just drive to it at sunrise!

Hi Meghan! We did both. You can read more about that in our full guide for Mount Bromo .

Did you have to pay for your drivers food and accommodation in east java?

We didn’t pay for our driver’s food or accommodation. Some drivers may ask for that, though.

How did you manage the transportation for day 1 and day 2? Did you book a tour, or rent a car to go to Dieng Plateau, Prambanan & Borobudur Temples?

Hi Feng. For day 1 at Dieng Plateau, I would recommend going with a tour or a private driver. Here’s a Dieng tour with pickup from Yogyakarta . For day 2 at Prambanan and Borobudur, there are several options, but I think a tour or driver is still a good way to do it. Prambanan is pretty easy to reach since it’s located right in the city, and you can even get to it with a taxi. However, Borobudur is outside of the city so it’s harder to reach. That’s why a combo tour makes sense if it’s in your budget. Here’s a good day tour that includes both Borobudur and Prambanan .

Hey Devd & Intan !

Amar from india.

Your blog and details are one of the finest spot for anyone who considering for indonesia for sure. i’ve reading few blogs since few days & your one stand out with much enough clean details! Thank you for giving your time for us 🙂

Your 1 week Jawa hit me enough now wanted looking for one more week option apart of Bali. any other suggestion for photography travelers !?

Hi Amar, thanks for your comment. Some other good options are Komodo, Lombok, or Sumba. Those are all near Bali. You can also find more suggestions for nice Indonesian islands here .

Hi David and Intan,

Did you book you train tickets at the station or in advance. If so please let us know the link. Are there more schedules available at the station?

Hi Lien, we bought our train tickets in advance at Tiket.com and then you just scan the e-ticket when you reach the station. I am not seeing the YK -> ML route on that site anymore for some reason, but you can still buy it at the KAI website .

Thank you David! We will take a look at the site. 👍🙏

You mentioned that it takes about an hour from ketapang to Bali but looking at Ferry it says 4+hours. It had several stops. Did you book your ferry on KAI?

Any recommendation where to stay in Bali/Ubud close to attractions. Any food/ places to eat recommendation? How about Durian? 😊. Much appreciated! Sorry for the trouble. You can email me…thanks!

Hi Lien! The KAI site is only for the train. We didn’t book the ferry in advance and I’m not sure if you can. It always has seats available though, and there are departures every 20 minutes so it’s easy to get the next one. I just sent you an email for the other questions. 😊

Hi, Great article super helpful! Question, I’m interested in doing what you did for Java: Malang > waterfalls > Bromo > Injen > ferry to Bali. I message the driver service you mentioned and they quoted $411 (6300.000 IDR). Does that sound correct?

Hi! Yes that sounds about right for current prices.

Sorry, one more question if it’s not too much trouble. When you booked your driver did you book all of your days at once or did you pay them daily? Also, did you pay for your driver’s accommodations? Did they include all of the fees in their price or did you pay that separately?

I’m trying to book a driver for 2 days: Kepanjen > Tumpaksewu > Cemorolawang > Bromo > Surabaya.

Sure. We booked it all at once, but paid per day. We didn’t pay for the driver’s accommodations, but some drivers do ask for that (since it’s a road trip with multiple days of travel), so it’s possible they may ask for that now. On our trip, we paid our own fees/tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. That sounds like a good 2 day itinerary for Tumpak Sewu and Bromo. Enjoy!

Ok thanks. Did you pay ahead of time or day of?

We paid the day of.

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The Ultimate Java Itinerary for 7 Days from Bali

Are you visiting Java Island for the first time and looking for the perfect 1 week Java, Indonesia Itinerary?

1 week in Java is not enough to discover the whole island. But you can see the most visited places, and at least you’ll have a reason to return to Indonesia.

We’ve put together a detailed Central & East Java Itinerary for 7 days, covering all of Java’s main attractions and some hidden gems.

You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your one-week Java Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

How to Get to Banyuwangi from Bali

Best hotels in banyuwangi, east java, best hotels in malang, east java, best hotels in yogyakarta, central java, no time to read now pin it.

Where is Java, Indonesia?

Java is an island located in Indonesia between Sumatra and Bali. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of Java.

How to Get to Java from Bali

Getting to Java Island may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few ways to get there. You can easily get to Java from Bali by ferry or plane.

The plane is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to Java!

Java has several airports. There are many international flights from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur and domestic flights from other parts of Indonesia, such as Jakarta and Bali.

Buy an eSIM and data package for Indonesia.

From Bali, you can fly to Java from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (airport code DPS).

The flight takes just 1-1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 30-40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

TIP Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Java, Indonesia.

If you follow our Java Itinerary, the easiest way to get to Java from Bali is by ferry. We have a detailed post on  how to get to Java  with all the information you need.

Best Time to Visit Java

Indonesia has two seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.

Java is a popular destination all year round!  But the best time to visit Java is during the dry season, from May to October.

The weather is sunny and dry during these months, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the Java attractions.

Java Island has a tropical climate, hot and humid, and the average temperature is 27°C all year round. However, we recommend you pack warm clothes for the Mount Bromo and  Kawah Ijen  volcano tour.

The busiest time to visit Java is between July and August.

The rainy season in Java runs from November to April. We did this Java Itinerary in May.

TIP In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation and tours in advance!

See also → Things to Do in Java

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Java Itinerary: Central and East Java Route

You can easily modify our Java Travel Itinerary to extend or reduce the days.

Day 1: Arrive in Banyuwangi – East Java Itinerary

Welcome to Java! We hope you had a great ferry journey and are ready to explore Java Island.

Banyuwangi is the perfect place to start your East Java Itinerary. Depending on when you arrive in Banyuwangi, you can choose to start exploring the town or relax at the accommodation.

We rented a motorbike for the next day. After that, we checked into a hotel where we could sleep for a few hours before the trek. Then, at midnight, we started our tour by motorbike to Mount Ijen Volcano.

TIP Make the most of your experience by visiting the Ijen and Mt Bromo volcanoes on a  3-day tour from Bali.

The easiest way to get from Bali to Java is to travel from Gilimanuk Harbour to the Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi.

The ferry departs approximately every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So there is no need to book in advance!

The boat ticket is only 13,000 IDR (0.85 USD) per person, and the journey takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

Once you arrive at Ketapang Ferry Port, you can reach Banyuwangi in about 20 minutes by taxi.

Recommended post → How to Get from Bali to Java

Day 2: Mount Ijen Crater Tour – A highlight of your Java Itinerary

Mount Ijen hike is a must-do in Indonesia, so you can’t miss it on your Java Itinerary. Kawah Ijen is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the world’s largest acidic lake and the famous Blue Fire.

The public transport in Banyuwangi is limited, so the best way to reach the Kawah Ijen Volcano is to rent a motorbike or join an organized tour.

The journey takes about 1 hour from Banyuwangi to Mount Ijen. If you want to see the famous Blue Fire, we recommend you arrive at 1 AM.

Important note Due to volcanic activity, you can only start hiking at 4 AM, and it is not allowed to descend to the lake. Therefore, the natural phenomenon of electric Blue Flame at Kawah Ijen is unfortunately not visible. You should check for up-to-date information before you travel!

Once you arrive, you can buy your entrance ticket and rent a headlamp, gas mask, or warm clothes. It takes 1.5-2 hours to get from the parking lot to the Mount Ijen Crater Rim.

If you don’t want to do the Kawah Ijen hike independently, we recommend booking your tour via GetYourGuide.

After the tour, have breakfast, return to your accommodation, and spend the day relaxing. But if time is limited, you can continue your Java Itinerary and travel to Malang by private driver or taxi.

The trains only run in the early morning hours between Banyuwangi and Malang, so we recommend traveling onwards the next day. Book your train tickets  HERE.

We decided to relax and spent 2 nights in Banyuwangi.

Read the full post → How to Climb Kawah Ijen Volcano

Where to Stay in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi is a town in East Java and the gateway to the Ijen volcano for hikers.

If you want to make the most of your trek, you can camp at the Kawah Ijen.  The camping fee is just 5,000 IDR (0,35 USD).

You can spend 1-2 days in Banyuwangi, these are our accommodation recommendations.

• Mid-Range:   Aston Banyuwangi Hotel  or  eL Hotel Banyuwangi
• Budget:   Banana Homestay

Day 3: Travel to Malang and Visit Jodipan Colorful Village

Good morning! It’s time to continue your East Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Malang.

The distance between Banyuwangi and Malang is 305 km, and the travel time is approximately 7 hours. As the journey is long, we recommend you bring water and some snacks.

From Banyuwangi to Malang, train tickets start from 62,000 IDR (4 USD) per person. The train is the cheapest way to travel in the Java itinerary.

TIP You can easily buy train tickets at the Ketapang railway station, but we recommend booking online with 12Go!

Since you will arrive in Malang in the early afternoon, you will have enough time to walk around the Jodipan Colorful Village and visit the Blue Village.

Hungry? Here are our recommendations for the best restaurants in Malang.

As the village of Jodipan is not so crowded, you can visit at any time of day and explore the streets, find the best photo spots, and talk with locals.

From Jodipan, you can easily get to the Blue Village on the other side of the bridge. Plan at least 2-3 hours to explore the Rainbow and Blue Village.

TIP If you have a drone, bring it with you because the views from above are stunningly beautiful.

Keep reading → Things to Do in Malang

Day 4: Take a Day Trip to Mount Bromo – A popular place on your Java Itinerary

A visit to Mount Bromo Volcano is the highlight of every Java Itinerary, and you can easily take a day trip from Malang to Mount Bromo.

Mt Bromo is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the beautiful sunrise and take the epic crater rim walk.

Group tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, jeep ride, entrance fee, and breakfast.  Pick-up time usually starts at midnight! Book your Mount Bromo sunrise tour via  Viator.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Mount Bromo takes 2-2.5 hours.

Once you arrive at the jeep parking lot, you can walk to the Penanjakan Bromo viewpoint, where most people watch the sunrise.

TIP Get the most out of your day trip and book a Mount Bromo sunrise and Madakaripura Waterfall tour  HERE.

Recommended post → Mount Bromo Guide with Best Viewpoints

Day 5: Visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Are you looking for the best things to do near Malang, Java? Tumpak Sewu is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia and a highlight on your East Java Itinerary.

Tumpak Sewu translates from the Javanese language to mean “Thousand Waterfalls” and is 120 meters high.

The best way to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is to  join a day trip from Malang.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall takes 2-3 hours.

From the parking lot, you can reach the impressive viewpoint in about 10 minutes and enjoy a fantastic view of the waterfall.

After that, a challenging hike leads to the waterfall, and depending on your fitness level, the tour takes at least 45 minutes.

Book a multi-day tour,  including Mount Bromo and the Kawah Ijen.

Read the full post →   Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Guide

Where to Stay in Malang

If you plan to visit Bromo Volcano and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Malang is the best base. These are our accommodation recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Shalimar Boutique Hotel
• Mid-Range:   Harris Hotel  or  Hotel Tugu Malang
• Budget:   Ibis Styles Malang

Day 6: Travel to Yogyakarta – A featured destination in the Java Itinerary

Good morning! It’s time to continue your Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Yogyakarta, Central Java.

The best and most comfortable way to get from Malang to Yogyakarta is by train. The journey time is approximately 6-7 hours, and depending on the type of ticket, train tickets start from 230,000 IDR (15 USD) per person.

Book your train tickets.

Alternatively, you can travel by night bus, but the journey takes at least 12 hours. Damri bus tickets start from 15 USD per person.

Once you arrive in Yogyakarta, start exploring the city’s attractions. Visit the Taman Sari Water Castle & Underground Mosque and walk through the famous Malioboro Street.

You can explore Malioboro Street independently or join a  guided walking and food tour  in Yogyakarta.

Malioboro is the perfect place to shop, eat, and offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Taman Sari Water Palace is just a 10-minute drive from the famous Malioboro Road and is easily accessible. Plan to spend 1-2 hours around Taman Sari.

TIP Add an extra day to your Central Java Itinerary and take a day trip to Jomblang Cave.

Day 7: Visit Borobudur and Prambanan Temple

Most people will only do the East Java route, skipping Central Java, but in our opinion, visiting the temples of Prambanan and Borobudur is a must-see in the Java Itinerary.

The best way to visit Prambanan & Borobudur Temple is to join a day trip from Yogyakarta.

Important note At the moment, the Borobudur and Prambanan temples are closed every Monday, so check for up-to-date information before you travel!

We recommend watching the sunrise at the  Borobudur Temple  and combining your visit with the magnificent Prambanan Temple at sunset. Prambanan Temple is just a 1.5-hour drive from Borobudur.

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.  The three main temples are dedicated to the most important Hindu gods, like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Shiva’s shrine is the tallest at 47 meters and offers the most beautiful scenery.

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world!  Buddhists and many tourists come from all over the world to visit this important pilgrimage place.

Book the best Borobudur Sunrise and Prambanan tour through  GetYourGuide , where you can get great prices.

See also → Yogyakarta Guide

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

Although Yogyakarta is a popular tourist destination in Java, accommodation options are available for all budgets.

The city has good restaurants and great places to shop. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta
• Mid-Range:   The Victoria Hotel Yogyakarta
• Budget:   Java Villas Boutique Hotel & Resto

Day 8: Combine your Java Itinerary with Lombok or leave Java

We hope you enjoyed your Java, Indonesia Itinerary! But it’s time to leave Java and travel back to Bali or visit Lombok.

The easiest way to get from Yogyakarta to Bali is to take a short domestic flight. The flight takes just 1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

Yogyakarta has an International Airport,  the Yogyakarta Kulon Progo International Airport (airport code YIA). The distance between Yogyakarta Airport and the city center is 47 km, and the travel time is approximately 1.5-2 hours.

TIP Use Skyscanner to get cheap flights to Bali, Indonesia.

Alternatively, you can fly directly from Yogyakarta to Lombok. The journey takes just 1.5 hours, and tickets start from 90 USD (without luggage) per person.

Come to Lombok and visit the epic beaches, go snorkeling or surfing, see the stunning waterfalls, and if you’re looking for an adventurous activity, hike the famous hiking trails.

Recommended post →   2 Weeks in Lombok

Java Travel Guide: FAQ about Java Itinerary

Is java worth visiting.

Absolutely, we loved exploring Java!

The island of Java is home to beautiful temples, breathtaking waterfalls, volcanoes, tea plantations, and friendly Javanese people.

TIP You can also start your Java Itinerary in Central Java by flying from Bali to Yogyakarta Airport (airport code YIA).

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Indonesia and apply for an e-visa online.

Is it Safe to Travel to Java Island?

Yes, Java is generally safe. However, always keep an eye on your valuables and beware of pickpockets!

Make sure you have travel insurance! If you rent a motorbike, drive carefully, always wear a helmet, and avoid driving at night!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

How to Get Around Java

The best way to get around on your Java Itinerary is by train and rent a motorbike. On Java Island, trains are modern, cheap, and comfortable. Book your train tickets HERE.

We recommend travel between cities by train, and within the towns rent a motorbike and explore the sights at your own pace.

Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or join an organized tour to reach the sights.

How many Days do You Need in Java?

Most people spend 7 days to explore Java on their first visit.

But if you can, we recommend spending at least 10 days on the island and exploring the best places at your own pace.

TIP Save money, avoid ATM transaction fees when going abroad, and pay in local currency with a Wise Card.

Central & East Java Itinerary Map

We hope our 1 week Java Travel Itinerary will help you plan your next trip to Indonesia. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go

RECOMMENDED POSTS

Ultimate Guide: How to Visit Mount Bromo at Sunrise

How to See Jodipan Colorful Village in Malang

Mount Ijen: How to Climb Kawah Ijen Volcano

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Wonderful 1 Week East Java Itinerary: Temples, Volcanoes and Waterfalls

• 1 DISCOVER YOUR INDONESIA
• 2.1 Borobudur Temple
• 2.2 Prambanan Temple
• 2.3.1 Frequently Asked Questions: Yogyakarta
• 3 Day 4: Madakaripura Waterfall
• 4.0.1 Frequently Asked Questions: Mount Bromo
• 5 Day 6: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Goa Tetes Waterfall, Kapas Biru Waterfall
• 6.0.1 FAQ: Kawah Ijen Crater
• 7.1 Pulau Merah (Red Island Beach)
• 7.2 Tanjung Papuma (Papuma Beach)
• 7.3 Kabut Pelangi Waterfall
• 7.4 Jordipan Colourful Rainbow Village
• 8 East Java itinerary FAQ

If you were ever in doubt about Indonesia, East Java Indonesia has no shortage of incredibly scenic landscapes, volcanoes, temples, waterfalls, and loads of Javanese culture.

If you’re looking at an Indonesia map for the first time, It’s easy to get overwhelmed . There are 7 main regions (Java, Kalimantan, Sumatra, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, and Western New Guinea), With Java being the most populated island.

Java Indonesia consists of Central Java, West Java, and East Java where the ‘must see’ attractions ( volcanoes , waterfalls , temples , etc.) are extensive! but in this article, I’ll focus on an East Java itinerary that will show you only the best the island has to offer in a 1-week itinerary AND some bonus destinations if you have a few more days to spare.

TRAVELIST TIP: If you’re starting your trip from Jakarta or West Java Indonesia, Indonesia’s Central Java attractions should not be overlooked.  We started in Yogyakarta . I love to travel in Central Java because it hosts the wonderful culturally rich city of Yogyakarta and is the perfect place to start your journey of the attractions in Java island Indonesia.

DISCOVER YOUR INDONESIA

Get 4 FREE INDONESIAN TRAVEL ITINERARIES for: The Adventurer, The Eclectic, the Culture Buff and The Beachy Island hopper – JUST SUBSCRIBE & DOWNLOAD

I HATE spam too and respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Day 1 to 3: Yogyakarta

In Yogyakarta , you will find two of the most coveted tourist destinations in Indonesia: P rambanan Temple and Borobudur Temple  Java Indonesia. Both these monuments are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are vastly different in their structure and design.

HOW TO GET TO YOGYAKARTA

Yogyakarta is centrally located so getting there is easy with a variety of options via BUS, TRAIN & FLIGHT

JAKARTA to YOGYAKARTA 🚌🚅✈️

BALI to YOGYAKARTA ✈️

SURABAYA to YOGYAKARTA 🚅✈️

Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Central Java Indonesia is the LARGEST BUDDHIST TEMPLE IN THE WORLD! How interesting that in a vast majority Muslim country, you’d find the largest Buddhist monument in the world ! It just shows you the cultural diversity of Java as well as the beauty of different religions living in unison in the country.

RELATED READ: Borobudur Java Indonesia Temple at sunrise + 6 Factors to consider before buying your ticket

The sheer size of the temple Borobudur Java Indonesia is a sight to behold. One can effortlessly spend a good 3 to 4 hours walking the grounds and ascending the tiers to finally reach the stupas. As this infamous tourist spot in Indonesia is extremely popular , there is the option to visit for a Borobudur sunrise tour or during regular hours.

The sunrise tour affords you the ability to see the sun rising over the Borobudur compounds which is great for photography purposes. It’s a super early start especially if you aren’t staying near the temples.

Prambanan Temple

The island of Java Indonesia also hosts an equally beautiful Hindu masterpiece, Prambanan, which was also awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

RELATED READ: Prambanan Temple Yogyakarta: A Hindu Masterpiece in Indonesia

Characterized by spine-like features, unlike Borobudur, Prambanan temple suffered more significant wrath from the Mount Merapi volcano, as you will still see rubble and debris of the ancient stone yet to be restored to Prambanan temple.

TRAVELIST TIP: If you’re short on time, Both these temples can be visited on the same day , especially if you are doing a Borobudur at sunrise, Java Indonesia is incredibly hot so sunrise is a brilliant option to escape the humidity of the afternoon. Prambanan temple is also favoured to be visited from late afternoon into early evening for sunset.

More Activities in Yogyakarta

TOP 1 DAY YOGYAKARTA TOUR PICK

The Temples and Volcano Tour

5-Star Rated | “The best organizer I ever met. Always on schedule, top activities, top private car, and very kind!”

🌄Sunrise at Borobudur Temple

🚙Jeep Volcano Tour of Mount Merapi

🛕Prambanan Temple Tour

➡️Check Pricing and Availability for the Temples & Volcano Tour

There are some wonderful other places to visit in Yogyakarta but depending on your schedule you may have to pick and choose what you can and can’t do:

🏖️ Timang Beach

🔦 Jomblang Cave

🍦 Try Tempo Gelato

🌃 Experience Yogyakarta at night

Frequently Asked Questions: Yogyakarta

There are 3 main options for travelling around Java and Yogyakarta specifically: Taxi, hire a driver/car or bike, or use a tour company. USE a TOUR COMPANY (MY TOP PICK): The even more effortless option is to use a tour company (and is my recommendation). There are plenty of affordable tour options  that literally takes all the hassle and fuss out of navigating and travelling to these stunning locales. Hire a car and driver: (2ND PICK) Having a car and driver literally gives you the flexibility to do everything on your own time and without any schedule. >> Check out availability The taxi option is as simple as ordering an UBER, In Indonesia, it’s called GRAB. Hiring a motorcycle is only for those who have experience riding a motorcycle in Southeast Asia. The traffic is insane, and the other motorcycle drivers don’t follow the rules of the road, so If you don’t have this experience under your belt. You obviously need to have a driver’s licence and Make sure you also have INCREDIBLE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

I don’t have a preference here because I suggest doing Borobudur at Sunrise and Prambanan at sunset, so they could be done on the same day or separate days, but there is plenty more to see in Yogyakarta so I suggest spending at least two days in the city.

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Yogyakarta. These are some of my recommended picks in the city centre: Greenhost Boutique hotel , The Phoenix Hotel , Grand Aston , Hotel Tentrem , The 101 Yogyakarta Tugu Hotel

From Central Java, It’s time to make your way to Jawa Timur Indonesia  (East Java province in Bahasa Indonesian)

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:  We opted to use a train from Yogyakarta to Surabaya and had a tour company fetch us from Surabaya train station. Our East Java road trip began and ended in Surabaya, but depending on where you’re staying will determine your route .

HOW TO GET TO SURABAYA

I’d recommend it by train or flight. The train tickets may take longer, but they are comfortable and cost-effective. I did however notice that if you book flights early enough in Indonesia, you’ll find great deals, and there is also the option to grab a flight that costs the same as a first-class train ticket. We chose Surabaya because it was a larger city and had more travel options compared to East Java Malang.

YOGYAKARTA to SURABAYA 🚅✈️

JAKARTA to SURABAYA 🚌🚅✈️

BALI to SURABAYA ✈️

>>🗺️Check out this East Java Map to see where we’re heading

Day 4: Madakaripura Waterfall

I’ve truly never seen a waterfall anything like it . Madakaripura Waterfall East Java Indonesia is a towering waterfall that creates a beautiful curtain of mist and enriches the ever-growing moss of the cavernous rock face.

READ THE FULL POST: The Most Enchanting Waterfall – Madakaripura Waterfall Indonesia East Java

It was one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever seen. The walk into visiting Madakaripura is an easy journey but if you hadn’t researched it before, you have no idea what to expect and I still feel typing these words I cannot do it justice.

It took my breath away!

You will get wet, but who cares when you’re in this magical place? This unusual Malang waterfall created some incredible vertical panoramic shots. The walk through the cleared jungle path was also delightful.

TRAVELIST TIP:  So as you can see in the picture above, we’re in raincoats/ponchos. we actually weren’t as prepared for what to wear before we reached the destination. But there were plenty of vendors, selling, umbrellas, swimwear, raincoats etc. on the path to the waterfall so if you’re not keen to get super soaked – support the local vendors on route

THE TOUR WE BOOKED

We did this leg of the trip as a Private Multiday 3 Day 2 Night Trip from Surabaya (ending at Ketapang harbour). We visited Mount Bromo Volcano, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Kawah Ijen Crater Lake volcano >> BOOK THIS TOUR

Private 3D2N Mount Bromo Volcano, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Ijen Volcano Tour

🚗Private airconditioned transport

🗣️English-speaking driver

🚙Private 4WD Jeep for Bromo sunrise and crater visit

🚶‍♂️Local trekking guide at all sites

🛌 Accommodation 1 night in Banyuwangi and Mount Bromo area

🚢Ferry ticket

➡️CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY for 3D2N Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu Tour

🚘 GETTING TO CEMORO LAWANG:  

From Madakaripura Waterfall to Mount Bromo location is quite a drive, but it’s interesting to ride through the East Java island countryside . You’ll also note a significant temperature drop as you ascend to the higher elevation .

After visiting Madakaripura waterfall you will drive to the visit of Cemoro Lawang which is the closest village to Mount Bromo . There are a number of hotels, hostels, and homestays in the area and I highly suggest staying as close to the entrance to the Bromo National Park entrance as possible because again this is one of the most famous places in Indonesia to visit some there will be plenty of locals too that have made the journey to visit this spectacular natural wonder!

Day 5: Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo at sunrise along with the climb up to the crater rim was ultimately the travel experience that inspired me to take the risk and embrace my passion for travelling and start this blog.

That is how memorable visiting Mount Bromo is.

I’ve yet to find a person who can disagree with that statement. If this is the first time you’ll be visiting an active volcano you’ll realise how bucket list-worthy this moment is.

READ THE FULL POST: Mount Bromo Sunrise hike + 7 Reasons you have to Visit

Visiting Mount Bromo for sunrise is one of the most popular East Java attractions. The Bromo sunrise is best seen from Mount Penanjakan and then after sunrise, you head to Mount Bromo itself and take a short hike (walk up a series of stairs and across a sea of sand/ash) to the crater rim.

At the crater rim, you can literally see the smoke coming off the sulfur and it’s pretty safe. This is truly one of my favourite volcanoes in Java Indonesia.

After summiting the crater, the tour guides will drop you off at your accommodation to shower and refresh, grab some breakfast (since it’s still breakfast time), and then you’ll head off to your next destination.

Looking for more Mount Bromo Tour options?

READ: How to Choose the Best Mount Bromo Tour for You + My Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions: Mount Bromo

Most certainly yes, this is definitely nothing like a true hike or scaling a mountain . It’s literally just walking across some sand and then up some stairs , It’s not even a full day trip you only need half the day to view sunrise and climb up to the crater rim.  

I would not consider Mount Bromo to be dangerous. There is no technical climbing involved. I would suggest you keep up to date with the volcanic activity leading up to your trip. This can be monitored at the Volcano Discovery website

I would recommend staying in Cemoro Lawang, Probolinggo, Java Indonesia. The reason for this is because you’ll be closest to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park entrance, so you will be one of the firsts to get to the sunrise viewpoint. These are my recommended accommodations in Probolinggo East Java Indonesia: Hotel Jiwa Java , Hotel Java Banana Bromo Resort , Cemara Indah , Cafe Lava Hostel,

TOUR FROM BALI

Private 3 Day 2 night Tour From Bali: Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu

🚗Private air-conditioned transport

💦Local guide and entrance fees at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

🚶‍♂️Local trekking guide at Mount Ijen

🎟️Entrance fee for Mount Bromo and Ijen

🛌 Accommodation 1 night in Cemoro Lawang, Hotel 1 night in Bondowoso

➡️CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY for 3D2N Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu Tour FROM BALI

🚘 GETTING FROM BROMO TO TUMPAK SEWU WATERFALL:  

After taking in the breathtaking beauty of Bromo Mountain Indonesia, you’ll wonder if it can get any better. It will and does.

The drive through Bromo Tengger Semeru National is stunning. As mentioned we did this through a tour company making it a literally effortless trip.

Day 6: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Goa Tetes Waterfall, Kapas Biru Waterfall

As you can see Java has no shortage of natural beauty. Possibly the most famous East Java waterfall is Tumpak Sewu Waterfall  Indonesia, but just in its immediate vicinity is Goa Tetes waterfall, and a few kilometres away you’ll find Kapas Biru Waterfall.

Tumpak Sewu is an incredible mammoth 120 m tall waterfall in an amphitheatre-style rockface cascading down into the gauge. It’s beautiful to see from two viewpoints.

Want to learn more about this incredible adventure to the waterfall East Java holds? READ: Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls in East Java

The panoramic view is easily accessible and only a few metres from the entrance, then you descend into the gorge which is a bit more of a treacherous journey. The path involves walking down some make-shift mud stairs and handrails made of not-very-sturdy bamboo  so I’d strongly suggest you wear some grip sandals or aqua boots.

When you do reach the bottom it’s a great scene and there is a constant mist in the air which creates a simply magical atmosphere. This is truly one of my favourite East Java Indonesia waterfalls.

Just left to the turn of reaching the gorge of Tumpak Sewu waterfall East Java Indonesia is the short path to Goa Tetes waterfall. It’s a lovely bonus and even more so because you can stand under these smaller gushing falls which is incredibly refreshing!

Just another 5.5 km away is a third beautiful waterfall called Kapas Biru. It’s also not the easiest path to walk through to get to but if you have a bit of extra time, it’s worth a visit. 

These waterfalls are high up on our list of East Java destinations which truly proves that the Indonesian Island East of Java has a lot on offer.

Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater

Another of the highly recommended things to do in East Java is Kawah Ijen Crater . It’s certainly one of my East Java highlights. We arrived in Bondowoso at 17:00 and left for Kawah Ijen Crater at 23:30 that same evening.

Why those crazy arrival and departure times?

Well for many visiting this unique destination, you have to be up at the crater edge at a particular time (the early dark hours of the morning before dawn) to view the infamous Ijen East Java blue fire flames.

RELATED READ: East Java trip to Mount Ijen Crater Volcano with blue fire guide

Kawah Ijen East Java Indonesia is literally one of the few places in the entire world where you’ll be able to see this phenomenon. So when I say this is once in a lifetim e, I mean it! T here is a very small likelihood that you will see this in your lifetime.

The ascent again, one wouldn’t typically term a hike , but a very steep dark walk. It pretty much is paved the entire way up, but you really don’t realize how steep it is when you’re walking in the dark. I consider myself relatively fit and I was quite happy to stop a good few times to catch my breath whilst walking up to Kawah Ijen Volcano java Indonesia.

When you reach the top, it’s still pitch dark and that’s when it’s time to see the blue flames. The flames are produced due to the gases produced from the sulfur catching alight means that there is no guarantee that on your trip you will get to see it unfortunately and it will also never be consistent on what the size of the flames will be at Mt Ijen East Java

We did manage to see some flames but they were small . It was still incredible, but gosh it was quite windy up there, and it is icy cold. Then there is the wait till sunrise, but you’ll find a number of guides that make small campfires in and around the crater rim (although you don’t realise where the crater is because it’s still pitch dark).

I clung to the campfires as if my life depended on it, I had to be peeled away to go to the sunrise cliff face to actually watch it. But on that point, when the light starts to uncover the surroundings, your jaw will drop .

Throughout the darkness, you literally have no idea what has been behind you the entire time. A monumental turquoise sulfuric lake. It is an overwhelming presence once you see it! It’s also the largest sulfuric lake in the world – should you need more convincing on why you need to visit. This definitely needs to be on the list of places to visit in East Java.

FAQ: Kawah Ijen Crater

This totally depends on you or your tour company. I did not mind staying in Bondowoso, but only realised after that Banyuwangi was slightly closer which means I could’ve slept a bit longer. Either option still involves waking up extremely early.    

Most definitely yes! It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the blue fire. 

This makes the most sense logistically because it’s the closest destination in East Java to Bali. There are also plenty of tours that start from Bali and explore East Java with the first stop being Kawah Ijen.

I don’t think you need to be a regular gym-goer to visit Kawah Ijen. The walk up to the crater rim is very steep, but you can do this at your own pace and the surface is paved and clear. 

There are options to stay in Banyuwangi or Bondowoso. These are my recommended accommodation options for Kawah Ijen: Ijen View Hotel , Ijen Resort and Villas Banyuwangi , Ijen Cliff Resort , Grand Padis Hotel , Mi Casa Guesthouse Banyuwangi

Now if you want to stop here, the above is a great 1 week East Java itinerary. However, there are still plenty of East Java points of interest that I haven’t mentioned.

There are plenty more East Java tourist attractions as well as some undiscovered gems.

GETTING BACK TO SURABAYA: From Kawah Ijen , you can drive back to Surabaya and take a train or flight back to Jakarta/Bali and back to your home. The other option which is fairly popular is to take a ferry at Ketapang port to Bali to start your island-hopping journey.

RELATED READ: The Ultimate 2021 Bali Bucket List

If you want to continue seeing what East Java has to offer whilst you make your way back to Malang or Surabaya let’s add a couple more days so you check out some other highlights below:

East Java Bonus Destinations

Pulau merah (red island beach).

Not as well known as the other attractions in East Java, but definitely a photo-worthy moment. The sand has a pinkish-red hue to it, similar to what you would see on Pink Beach in Komodo Islands National Park.

It’s a great place to relax on the beach, but also has the option to stay overnight. It’s a very good surfing destination (so I’m told) . The beach can be reached by car or motorbike from Banyuwangi and is approximately 60 km away.

Tanjung Papuma (Papuma Beach)

This is a gorgeous little gem tucked in on the southern coastlines of East Java. What makes this beautiful beach worth a visit is its iconic islets. The waters are a stunning crystal blue which reminded me of the Philippines along with the beautiful colourful boats littered along the shores waiting to eagerly take you o ut and about among the rocky islets.

It’s a popular beach and does not lend itself to much privacy but the backdrop is wonderful for laying on the beach enjoying a festive atmosphere with plenty of stalls and restaurants to cater to patrons.

Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

Another waterfall? Could one ever tire of these? NEVER!

Honestly, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to these as far as Indonesian attractions are concerned. The name loosely translates as rainbow mist waterfall. The trek to the waterfall is not as easily marked and distinct as that for Madakaripura and Tumpak Sewu.

It’s not technically difficult either but may take some time to reach the main waterfall, as you will pass smaller ones before you get there, but don’t be fooled, you need to trek on ! Extremely photogenic and a must if you have a few more days to play with in Java

Jordipan Colourful Rainbow Village

As far as Instagram is concerned, this is truly picture perfect! If you’re in East Java Malang you need to make sure you check out this stunning gem within the city which bursts with literally all the colours of the rainbow.

This area of Malang is what was once a ‘slum area’ but a group of students took on an assignment to bring the village back to life through colour. Their efforts were incredibly successful in turning this village into a bustling tourist attraction for locals and foreigners alike!

The village is divided into two sections separated by a river, it costs ONLY IDR 3000 to enter (approximately 0.21 USD) to enter either side. On the other side of the river is the Blue Village (a village completely painted all blue) called Kampung Biru Arema.

TRAVELIST TIP: Some of the other places not listed in the 1 week East Java Itinerary could possibly be added in during the one week but it would be a push . It would involve literally no rest and this itinerary already is quite packed. I’d strongly suggest rather visiting these other places on your way back from Kawah Ijen to Malang or Surabaya East Java Indonesia. If you are headed to Bali after Kawah Ijen, then you may need to re-think the order of your activities.

Discuss with a tour guide and driver because the locals know their lands and roads best and will offer you the best solution to make sure you get to see all these attractions in Indonesia’s East Java.

East Java itinerary FAQ

I recommend visiting just out of the rainy season which is the end of April beginning of May. Indonesia has two seasons Wet season from November to mid-April and Dry season from End of April to November.

Surabaya, Malang, Probolinggo, Bondowoso, Banyuwangi, Jember and Lumajang. The major cities are Surabaya and Malang with airports and more train option s.   

Indonesia has 3 time zones. East java time is the same as Jakarta (GMT+7).  

Day 1: Jakarta Day 2-4: Yogyakarta Day 5: Madakaripura Waterfall and Jordipan Village Day 6: Mount Bromo Day 7: Tumpak Sewu , Goa Tetes, Kapas Biru Day 8: Kawah Ijen crater Day 9: Red Island Banyuwangi Day 10: Tanjung Papuma Beach

Bali is sometimes the destination where travellers are starting instead of Jakarta. I would then opt to do the above list in reverse order by starting with Kawah Ijen and ending with Yogyakarta. If not, you can get to Yogyakarta from Bali in two ways. Option 1: Fly from Bali to Yogyakarta Option 2: Bali to Yogyakarta train journey . This will involve a ferry and train option . In Bali head to Gilimanuk Port, Take the Ferry to Ketapang, the train station is a short walk away, then take the train to Banyuwangi station. From here you can head to Mount Ijen with a tour company or head to Yogyakarta by train which is a 12-hour journey.

It’s a hard no, from me. However, if you’re short on time the Indonesia Travel Itinerary 1 week East Java option is a good one for a diversity of sights. Unfortunately, It’s pretty much impossible to cram all of Indonesia into one week . There are over 17 000+ islands that make up the country so you’d need months to see the whole of Indonesia . In one week you can probably just visit East Java or Bali and Nusa Islands .

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in the article have affiliate links,  what this means is , if you click a link and make a purchase; I may earn some money to buy a coffee  (woohoo!) . Thanks for the support, I’d love to keep making this content freely available to all. As always opinions and thoughts remain my own.

ARE YOU INSPIRED BY THIS EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE ?

Excited to visit East Java or have you visited already? I’d love to hear from you. Any places you think should be added to the list? Comment in the section below!

2 thoughts on “Wonderful 1 Week East Java Itinerary: Temples, Volcanoes and Waterfalls”

Found this very useful! Do you think I can drive to these places myself and do I need a tour guide for each place? If so how do I go about getting one (without pre booking online) is it easy just showing up and getting a local guide? Thanks so much

Hi Keaton! So glad that you found the article useful 🙂 I’d certainly say for the waterfalls getting a guide on-site is pretty easy (literally can request at the ticket office). For the Mout Bromo and KAwah Ijen, I would probably suggest getting hold of someone in the city the night before (maybe by asking at the local hotel etc.) I think its a bit trickier for those hikes as they happen super early in the morning so best to have someone prepared to meet you either at your hotel or at the entrance. Hope that helps?

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Java itinerary – the perfect route for your next trip

Java is the main island of Indonesia where approximately 140 million people live. However, most of the 15 million tourists visiting Indonesia every year head direct to Bali, overlooking Java. Without a doubt there is a lot to see and do here: walk around globally famous temples, explore active volcanoes, wander around coffee plantations and rice fields, and visit the ancient palaces of the Sultan. Apart from the culture, architecture, and natural attractions, the Javanese cuisine is another major point: there is a vast selection of dishes rich in spices to try from. Continue reading to learn about the best itinerary for checking out the best of Java.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Java Itinerary – Jakarta

Your Java itinerary will start in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, where you will most likely land. This big metropolis is a melting pot of cultures and is home to almost 10 million people. Jakarta is the perfect gateway for arriving in Indonesia and starting your trip through Java with an immersion in the culture. The city has one foot in the Javanese (and Indonesian) traditions and another in the Western world as can be seen in the contrast of the mosques and big malls standing side by side.

Once you’ve arrived in Jakarta, stay at least 2 days to recover from the jet lag and spend some time seeing the highlights of the city: such as the Istqlal Mosque, Monas (the National Monument), and learn about the Indonesian culture in the National Museum. Read this 2-day itinerary for visiting Jakarta .

Make sure to download this guide to visit Jakarta.

Where to stay in Jakarta:

• Shangri-la Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental

Also, check out this full post with a complete list of hotels to stay in Jakarta .

Java Itinerary – Yogyakarta

From Jakarta, continue your trip through Java by taking the train (around 8 hours) or getting on a plane (1.5 hours) to Yogyakarta, the cultural city of Java.

Yogyakarta is the cradle of civilization on the island of Java, with its main points of interest being built hundreds of years ago. In Yogyakarta you can get in touch with Buddhist and Hindu cultures by visiting the many temples around the city, as well as Muslim culture, heading to the palace of the Sultan.

The must-see things in Yogyakarta are the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, the Keraton (the palace of the Sultan), and Taman Sari (the Sultan’s former royal garden).

Plan to spend 2 days in Yogyakarta if you want to rush things, 3 days to visit everything more calmly. Find out more about what to do in Yogyakarta in this Essential Guide to visit Yogyakarta .

Book here your Borobudur and Prambanan tours .

Where to stay in Yogyakarta:

• Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta

Java Itinerary – Malang

After Yogyakarta, continue on the train (approximately 8 hours) to Malang.

Malang is part of every itinerary for visiting Java because it’s the best city to visit Mount Bromo, one of Java’s active volcanoes, located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Stay at least 2 days in Malang. One day to visit Mount Bromo with a tour – for information about the tour, make sure to read this full guide to visit Mount Bromo . A second day to check out one of these top things to do in Malang .

Where to stay in Malang:

• Hotel Tugu Malang

Java Itinerary – Banyuwangi

After Malang, it’s time to head to Banyuwangi (by train, roughly 7 hours), to visit another volcano in your Java itinerary. This time its Kawah Ijen.

Kawah Ijen is the crater of an active volcano on the island of Java known for its phenomenon called electric blue flames, but also for its astonishing massive turquoise lake.

Stay 3 days in Banyuwangi: one to go on the tour to Kawah Ijen , one to take a diving or snorkeling tour to Menjangan, in Bali, and one to check out the volcanic black sand beaches of the region.

Book now your Kawah Ijen tour from Banyuwangi .

Where to stay in Banyuwangi:

• Dialoog Banyuwangi

Find out more about the tour to visit Kawah Ijen .

Now that you are in the eastern part of Java, you have the option to either continue your itinerary to Bali or finish your trip in Java by taking a plane back to Jakarta.

From Java to Bali

Even though it’s located in Java, Banyuwangi is also connected to Bali by boat.

After visiting Java, if you want to head to Bali, you can take the ferry from the port of Ketapang, in Banyuwangi, to the port of Gilimanuk, on the western part of Bali. The journey takes less than 1 hour.

When you arrive in Bali, you’ll be very close to Menjangan. You can either stay in Menjangan and enjoy one of the greatest diving spots in Bali or arrange a car with your hotel to take you to Ubud, Uluwatu, or Canggu (the car ride to these places takes between 3 to 5 hours).

Extras to add to your Java Itinerary

If you are taking the train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, and want to stop along the way, you should spend some time in Bandung. In Bandung, you can visit coffee plantations and try Luwak coffee. Luwak coffee is an extremely exclusive and expensive type of coffee, made with partially digested coffee beans, which have been eaten and defecated by the Indonesian palm civet.  You can also visit Kawah Putih, another volcanic crater that has exceptional white color.

Wanting to add some beach vibes to your itinerary? Make sure to visit Thousand Islands from Jakarta. You can spend one night at the Pulau Macan Eco Resort (find out more about Pulau Macan ) or just take a day trip to one of the close islands, such as Pulau Sepa.

Looking for crystal clear water and palm trees? Java won’t disappoint you! Add a stop after Malang, making a quick detour to Semarang, and visit Karimunjawa. Here you can pass your days under palm trees, taking boat trips, and with plenty of diving and snorkeling. Here you can find everything you need to know about Karimunjawa , including how to get and where to stay.

Tips for your Java itinerary

What to eat in java.

Some of the must-try foods in Java are Nasi Goreng, Beef Rendang, Sop Buntut, Satay, and Gago Gado. If you learn more about the food in Indonesia, discover other dishes of Indonesia .

Where to buy train and plane tickets in Indonesia

The best place to buy planes and train tickets in Indonesia is through the Traveloka  website.

The best tours in Java

Want to visit Java on a tour so you don’t have to worry about planning everything? Here are the best tours to consider:

How to stay connected in Java

When landing in Jakarta, make sure to buy a SIM Card, either with Telkomsel or XL, before leaving the airport. The cities mentioned above have great data coverage and it’ll be pretty easy for you to stay connected.

Once you’ve finished your Java itinerary and you want to continue your trip around Indonesia to Bali, make sure to read these posts.

• 7 things to do in Malang
• How to spend 2 days in Jakarta
• Yogyakarta travel guide

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I am Elen, and I help 9-5ers plan their next getaway. I curate travel experiences, from places to sip a coffee to stays in boutique hotels, so you can save time when planning your next vacation. Here you will find travel guides, tips, and the best itineraries for your next trip.

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East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

• Published on December 12, 2019
• Last updated on March 3, 2021

We had a fantastic time traveling in East Java, and with this itinerary, we want to share our experiences and tips. Java is an island in Indonesia, and it has so much to offer from volcano hikes to the most impressive waterfalls. Also, the local people are some of the friendliest we have ever met.

How to get to East Java

We came to Java directly after our trip from the Komodo Islands, and we flew to Surabaya Airport and started our East Java Itinerary from there. If you come from home and want to visit, for example, Java and Bali, you can fly to Yogyakarta and travel the opposite around from us, or you can start in Bali. Either way, from Bali to Java, it is possible to come by ferry what we would have preferred, but since we came from our Komodo trip to Java, it wasn’t possible for us. But the ferry would have been much cheaper than a flight.

Visa to enter Indonesia

To visit Java or other places in Indonesia you can easily get a 30 days single entry at the airport without a visa when you arrive in the country. If you want to extend your stay up to 60 days you have to get a Visa On Arrival (VOA) at the airport which is as well valid for a 30 days stay, but can be extended and costs you 37$.

You have to go to the immigration office to extend your visa, which is a bit time consuming and costs you another 35$. If you come to Indonesia from home and know already that you want to stay in the country for 60 days you can get your 60-day visa back home at the Indonesian Embassy in your country and don’t have to go through the extension process.

East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

Day 1-3 sunrise at mount bromo.

You can choose if you want to visit Mount Bromo with a tour or do it by yourself. We decided to do the hike by ourselves, and it was very easy. It was a magical experience to see the sun rising next to the vulcanos and to enjoy the stunning colors.

Mount Bromo sunrise hike – Everything you need to know

Day 3-6 Malang and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

From Bromo, we traveled to Malang, which is about 3 hours ride when you take a jeep who can drive you through the sea of sand. Otherwise, the journey will take you about 5 hours. We mentioned everything you need to know about this in our blog post about Mount Bromo . We recommend you to organize this transport in advance if you want to stay in Bromo Town.

Rainbow Village – Kampung Pelangi Jodipan

This village was the highlight of our stay in Malang. It is a slum area that was already given up by the government. They wanted to relocate the people. A few students came up with the idea to paint this village to attract tourists, and their plan worked out.

You will pay a small entrance fee of 10k IDR (0.70$), to support the village. After you entered this town, you will be in another world of very positive vibes. Everything is painted in colors, and there are many cute decorations, all kinds of paintings on the walls, and much more. But the very best part of this village is the people who live there. They are so friendly and welcoming. Also, we met some school kids who came there to interview tourists for their English classes. We spend an hour with these kids and had so much fun. We highly recommend visiting this village when in Malang.

Blue Village

The blue village is located right on the other side of the street from the Rainbow village and should not be missed. When we walked around here we met no other tourists but only very lovely local people who were pleased that we visited their village. Here all the houses are painted in blue and it’s also very lovely to see.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

This waterfall is one of the places you can’t miss when visiting East Java. It is spectacular and very impressive. We drove to the waterfall by scooter while we stayed in Malang. The ride was about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can visit the waterfall while staying in the Bromo area, but it’s not much closer from there. That is why tourists often overlook this waterfall because it’s not very close to the main travel route. But we promise you it’s really worth the drive.

When you arrive at the waterfall, you will find a parking and some food stalls. You will first walk about 5 minutes until you get to a viewpoint where you will have a fantastic view of the waterfall. At this place, you can buy food and refreshment, what we did after the hike to hydrate ourselves with a fresh coconut.

After the viewpoint, you can start the hike down, which will take you about 30 minutes. The path is not always easy and will lead through some little waterfalls. Be aware that it can get slippery because of that. To wear the right shoes is very important. We wore some water-sandals that we personally like much better than sneakers when it gets to some wet paths. Also, be aware that you will get quite wet down at this waterfall, so don’t bring anything that could break because of the water. We didn’t have a waterproof case for our camera, but it survived.

Once you get down, you will have to pay to enter the waterfall. The fee is 20K IDR, which is about 1.40$ per person. The waterfall is truly impressive and massive. It’s worth the way to get down. Be careful when climbing the wet rocks that you won’t slip.

Day 6-10 Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, or “Jogja” how locals call it is the cultural city of Java and can’t be missed on an East Java Itinerary. It is famous for its traditional art and cultural heritage. You can visit here some of the most spectacular temples and also lovely neighborhoods with a lot of street art, cafés and even a bulk-store that we loved. We traveled from Malang to Yogyakarta by train with the Maliboro Express which was very comfortable. You can book a ticket in advance on 12Go.Asia or Bookaway .

Things to do in Yogyakarta

Budget for our East Java Itinerary

Traveling in Indonesia is quite affordable. We have listed here an average budget when visiting East Java. Of course, this can vary a lot with the choice of accommodation and transportation.

• Costs for food per day: 15-20$ for two people (local cuisine)
• Costs for accommodation: 30$ per night for a guesthouse or standard hotel
• Costs for the train ride from Malang to Yogyakarta: 19$ per person
• Costs for scooter rental: 5$ per day
• Costs for taxi: 40$ for 110km

Overall we can say that we enjoyed traveling in Java a lot. The Javanese people are some of the friendliest and warmest we ever met, and we loved all the unforgettable memories we made during this trip.

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Adventure in Java: Discover 8 Incredible Road Trip Itineraries

Java, an island rich in culture, history, and spectacular nature, is an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Java is through incredible road trips. With good roads and various interesting places to discover, you can plan an unforgettable road trip on this island. In this article, we will discuss eight incredible road trip itineraries for adventure in Java, with information about the interesting places you will encounter along the journey.

Driving through Java allows you to enjoy its natural diversity, from exotic beaches to majestic mountains. Furthermore, adventure in Java also includes exploring historical sites rich in cultural heritage. From the majestic Borobudur Temple to the enchanting complex of the Yogyakarta Palace, every corner of Java holds its own stories and charms. By traversing this island, you will engage in a profound adventure, exploring its cultural and historical richness while admiring its spectacular nature. Java not only offers a physical journey but also a spiritual and intellectual journey that will involve you in an unforgettable experience.

8 Incredible Road Trip Itineraries for Adventure in Java

1.south coast route.

source :  asialink.unimelb.edu.au

Start your adventure from Jakarta and explore the beauty of Java’s south coast. Adventure in Java begins with the first step from the capital of Indonesia. From Anyer to Pelabuhan Ratu, you will be amazed by the enchanting views of the beach and can savor fresh seafood delights throughout the journey.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to visit interesting attractions such as Pendem Fort in Cilacap. Your journey will become even more exciting as you traverse mountain slopes and lush forests, navigating winding and challenging roads.

Additionally, you can also explore historical cities such as Semarang and Surakarta, which offer invaluable cultural richness. Adventure in Java is not just about the sight of spectacular landscapes but also about experiencing authentic life and culture. At every step you take, you will be increasingly captivated by the charm and wonders of this island rich in history, culture, and nature.

2.Mount Bromo – Kawah Ijen Route

source : mountbromotour.com

For outdoor adventure enthusiasts, exploring the natural beauty of Java is an unforgettable experience. One of the most captivating routes is from Mount Bromo to Kawah Ijen. At the beginning of the journey, you will be greeted by the breathtaking panorama of Bromo’s vast sand desert and magnificent volcanoes. Adventure in Java not only offers extraordinary natural beauty but also a profound spiritual experience.

At sunrise in the east, you will be amazed by the spectacular view from the summit of Mount Bromo. The sunrise over this volcano is an unforgettable magical moment for visitors. The calm and peaceful atmosphere in the morning provides an opportunity for meditation and admiration of nature’s grandeur. However, the true adventure does not stop there.

Continuing the journey towards Kawah Ijen, you will encounter even more impressive challenges and natural wonders. After traversing beautiful high plateaus, it is time to witness a rare and impressive natural phenomenon: the blue fire of Kawah Ijen. Adventure in Java is not only about seeing spectacular natural landscapes but also about experiencing fascinating natural wonders and stirring the soul.

During the journey, don’t forget to interact with local inhabitants and learn about their lives and Java’s rich culture. Meeting these friendly people will add depth to your adventure in Java. Thus, for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, exploring the route from Mount Bromo to Kawah Ijen is a must. This incredible experience will not only leave unforgettable memories but also enrich your soul and deepen your admiration for the natural beauty and wonders of the world around us. Adventure in Java is about discovering beauty, wonders, and deeper meanings at every step of our journey.

3.Jogja – Solo Historical Tourism Route

source : getlost.id

The Central Java region is not only famous for its natural beauty but also for its richness in fascinating historical and cultural heritage. Adventure in Java via this route will lead you to a fascinating and enriching soul adventure. One of the must-visit destinations is the Keraton Surakarta and Keraton Yogyakarta, these two palaces are symbols of past glory and grandeur that are still beautifully preserved today.

In addition to visiting these majestic palaces, you can also explore various museums throughout the journey. These museums showcase the richness of Javanese culture in various forms, ranging from painting to wayang puppetry, to fascinating historical artifacts. Every corner of the museum exudes a vibrant historical aura, inviting you to reflect on the long journey of Javanese culture and how this heritage remains alive and relevant today. It is incomplete to traverse Central Java without tasting its delicious characteristic cuisine.

Throughout the journey, be sure to take the time to savor gudeg, a typical dish made from young jackfruits cooked in coconut milk and spices, as well as nasi liwet, a rice dish served with various typical Javanese accompaniments. Every bite will take you on an exciting culinary journey and reveal the richness of traditional Javanese cuisine. Thus, adventure in Java is about exploring natural beauty, historical heritage, and fascinating cultural richness, making every step of your journey an unforgettable experience.

4.Malang – Batu Culinary Tourism Route

source : travelapak.id

For food enthusiasts and adventurers in Java, exploring the route from Malang to Batu is an experience not to be missed. You can savor the delights of various typical dishes such as delicious bakso Malang, appetite-stimulating rujak cingur, and many more. Each dish has its own unique history and taste, adding to the pleasure of your culinary adventure in Java.

In addition to indulging in delicious cuisine, you will also find various attractions throughout the journey. Angkut Museum offers an impressive experience with its diverse collection of vehicles, while Jatim Park offers a fun combination of entertainment and education. Not only that, but the natural beauty of Batu is also waiting to be explored. Enjoy the fresh and cool air while admiring the magnificent natural panorama.

By combining culinary adventure and nature exploration, the journey from Malang to Batu will be an unforgettable experience for those who love adventure in Java.

5.South Java Natural Tourism Route

source : authentic-indonesia.com

Traveling through the southern part of Java, you will be enchanted by the magnificent natural landscapes, offering an unforgettable adventure experience. From the gorgeous exotic beaches of Gunung Kidul to the lush tropical forest of Meru Betiri National Park, every corner of Java offers a fascinating natural adventure. Adventure in Java offers the opportunity to explore the still untouched and less frequented natural beauty by many tourists.

Explore rarely visited hidden beaches, where you can enjoy tranquility and authentic beauty without disturbance. Adventure in Java is not only about providing spectacular visual experiences but also about offering thrilling moments that will remain unforgettable memories. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring these remote places, you will discover extraordinary natural richness and feel the true sense of adventure.

6.Central Java Tourism Route

source : riset.guru

Adventure in Java is an unforgettable experience, especially when you traverse the route through Central Java. This journey takes you to captivating destinations that charm the heart, such as the Dieng Plateau, Borobudur, and Prambanan Temple. At the Dieng Plateau, you will be enchanted by the natural beauty of the mountains with their fresh and cool air. Meanwhile, historical grandeur is presented before you as you explore Borobudur and Prambanan Temple, two fascinating historical sites.

In addition to natural landscapes and historical wonders, adventure in Java will also enrich your palate with a variety of regional culinary specialties. Don’t miss tasting delicious dishes such as kerak telor and mendoan that will awaken your appetite throughout your journey.

By exploring the route through Central Java, you will not only feel the captivating beauty of nature and history but also savor a tempting culinary adventure. Adventure in Java is not only about destinations but also about an experience that satisfies all your senses. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Java, full of colors and wonders.

7.Surabaya to Madura Culinary Tourism Route

source : lapispahlawan.co.id

Adventure in Java will take you on an unforgettable culinary experience, especially in Surabaya and Madura. These cities are known for their rich culinary diversity and deliciousness. From the famous satay Madura to the distinctive taste of rujak cingur from Surabaya, each dish is a gastronomic adventure that stimulates the appetite.

In addition to enjoying culinary delights, you can also explore various tourist attractions around Surabaya and Madura. Lombang Beach in Madura offers picturesque beauty of the beach with its white sand and calm waves. Meanwhile, Gili Labak Beach is a hidden paradise that showcases magnificent underwater beauty.

With adventure in Java, you will not only treat your palate to delicious cuisine but also nourish your soul with beautiful natural beauty. Every second of the journey becomes an unforgettable experience, enriching your heart and mind. So, make Surabaya and Madura your destination for a culinary adventure and enjoy the unparalleled wonders of Java.

8.Mount Merapi – Merbabu Tourism Route

source : gambar-panorama.blogspot.com

Adventure in Java is an unforgettable experience, especially when you traverse the route from Mount Merapi to Merbabu. This journey takes you on a series of exciting adventures amidst magnificent natural beauty.

You can indulge in various outdoor activities such as hiking and camping at the foot of these magnificent mountains. During the journey, don’t miss out on enjoying special moments like spectacular sunsets from the mountaintops. The stunning natural beauty will capture your heart and leave an unforgettable impression.

With adventure in Java, you will not only experience the joy of thrilling outdoor activities but also be touched by the magnificent natural beauty. Every step of the journey is part of an adventure that creates precious memories for a lifetime. So, get ready to explore the natural wonders from Mount Merapi to Merbabu and savor every moment of an adventure that stirs the soul.

Tips for Adventure in Java through Incredible Road Trip Itineraries

Adventure in Java offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore the richness of nature, culture, and unforgettable adventures. To ensure that your Java Adventure experience goes smoothly, here are some tips to consider:

Thorough Research and Planning: Before setting out, conduct thorough research on the destinations you wish to visit in Java. Determine the itinerary, the best time to visit, and the activities you want to do.

Choose the Right Time: Consider the season and weather in Java. Some places may be best visited during certain seasons to avoid rain or extreme weather conditions.

Bring the Proper Equipment: Tailor the equipment to the type of adventure you plan. Hiking shoes, a tent, camping gear, and climate-appropriate clothing are essential.

Water and Food: Make sure to have an ample supply of drinking water and snacks. Some places may not offer food amenities, so prepare accordingly.

Inform Your Travel Plan: Inform someone or your family about your travel itinerary and estimated return time, especially if you’re venturing out alone.

Use a Local Guide: If you’re unsure of the path or certain places, consider hiring a local guide who is an expert in the area.

Respect Local Rules: Always respect local rules and regulations, especially regarding access permits to conservation areas or national parks you’re visiting.

Cleanliness and Environmental Preservation: Keep the environment clean and preserved during your adventure. Dispose of waste properly and respect the environment around you.

First Aid Knowledge: Equip yourself with basic first aid knowledge and emergency measures, including how to deal with wildlife encounters or medical emergencies.

Navigation: Bring navigation tools such as maps, a compass, or GPS to help you navigate during your adventure, especially if exploring lesser-known regions.

Avoid Night Travel: Avoid traveling at night unless you have sufficient knowledge and experience of the terrain to be traversed.

Personal Safety: Ensure your personal safety by not displaying valuables and always remaining vigilant of your surroundings.

Avoid Contact with Dangerous Animals: Be cautious of venomous or dangerous animals you may encounter during your nature adventure and avoid touching or approaching them.

Monitor Weather Conditions: If embarking on an adventure in mountainous areas or volcanoes, monitor signs of danger such as sudden weather changes or signs of volcanic eruption.

Flexibility and Openness: Remain flexible and open to new experiences you may encounter during your journey. Java is a place rich in surprises and natural beauties.

Enjoy Every Moment: Finally, savor every moment of your Java Adventure. Capture those beautiful memories and use them as inspiration for your next adventures.

Exploration of South Java Beaches: Embrace the beaches of Gunung Kidul and surrounding areas, choose lesser-visited exotic destinations, and prepare for adventure along these stunning coasts.

Explore the Meru Betiri Tropical Forest: Meru Betiri National Park offers a unique adventure experience in a lush tropical forest abundant in flora and fauna. Be sure to research challenging hiking trails.

Hidden Beauties: Discover hidden beaches still rarely visited by tourists. The adventure here offers the opportunity to enjoy natural beauty exclusively.

Travel Notes: Take travel notes to record your experiences and capture special moments during your Java Adventure.

By considering these tips, your Adventure in Java will not only be visually impressive but also a safe and memorable experience. Feel free to explore the uniqueness and natural beauty as well as the culture offered by this island.

Embarking on an adventure in Java through road trips is an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts. The island of Java, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, offers a variety of incredible road trip itineraries, allowing travelers to explore hidden treasures and dazzling wonders.

Each road trip itinerary in Java offers a different experience, from exploring the beautiful beaches of the South Coast Route to appreciating the natural wonders of Mount Bromo and the Ijen Caldera. In addition to natural landscapes and history, adventure in Java also delights the taste buds with culinary specialties from each visited region, such as Malang’s bakso, Jogja’s gudeg, Madura’s satay, and many more. Not to mention, interaction with local inhabitants adds warmth and depth to the experience, enriching the journey with local stories and wisdom.

Embarking on an adventure in Java is not just about destinations but also about an experience that satisfies all senses. Every step of your journey in Java becomes a part of an adventure that creates precious memories for a lifetime. With its natural beauty, cultural richness, and hospitality of its inhabitants, Java offers an unforgettable adventure to anyone who decides to explore it.

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JAVA, INDONESIA – OUR ITINERARY GUIDE

For those who want to combine a pure Indonesian experience together with a trip to touristy Bali , nearby Java represents the ideal destination. Covered in green wild nature, the island of Java offers plenty of attractions, above all mesmerizing temples and volcanoes to hike . The large dimensions of the island require a stay of at least 7-10 days for a complete visit.

JAVA FROM WEST TO EAST

Our Java itinerary from West to East. The Yogyakarta-Probolinggo train takes 8 hours .

This is our suggested itinerary for a journey throughout Java from West to East (clearly you can follow it both ways). A  reliable railway system  allows easy transfers between main cities, whilst you need to refer to travel agencies to be taken by private car or minivan to volcanoes excursions.

Indonesian capital city is notorious for its hellish traffic , caused by a lack of an underground link in a 10 million inhabitant metropolis. This makes transfers to and from the airport long and hard (it can take up to 4 hours in peak times). The city is equally chaotic and desultory, the only alternative to queuing in a taxi are endless strolls among crowds. We stayed for one night only and left with the first train in the morning!

Yogyakarta special administrative region is certainly more charming and fascinating. Its of the same name capital also known as Jogja is the cultural heart of Java.  Here you can find the most notable temple of Indonesia,  Borobudur , besides multiple Buddhist, Hinduist and Muslim worship places. In the centre of the old city rises the ancient sultan residence, a mystical area worth a visit. The sea is reachable on a day trip, as much as it is possible to trek onto Merapi Volcano (if it’s not erupting like it was when we were there!). You can plan to spend 3-5 nights in Jogja. Traffic here is quite intense too, but more flowing out of town; if you are up for it you can rent a scooter for 4$ and plunge into crazy Java roads!

PROBOLINGGO – BROMO VOLCANO

Keeping on moving eastwards,  it’s possible to reach Probolinggo city by train from Jogja via an 8 hour journey , and from there start trekking to Mt. Bromo and its adjacent volcano, the most iconic peak in Java, often depicted on travel guides (and on top of this post!). Read our detailed article on how to reach and plan the best way to hike Mt. Bromo from Jogja and Probolinggo.

BANYUWANGI – MOUNT IJEN

Charming likewise and in growing tourist consideration other than local, Mount Ijen and its blue fire represent a very unique experience. Here you have the chance to see blue sulfur flames coming out naturally from the volcano crater at over 600°C, a spectacle to be seen at night before dawn. After crossing the strait by ferry from Bali , Banyuwangi is the ideal town where to spend the night before the trip. For all the info on how to get to Mt. Ijen and see the blue fire, read our dedicated post here.

Edo at wonderful Borobudur temple, Yogyakarta

Following here are some useful info about Java and Indonesia:

HOTEL – WHERE TO STAY IN INDONESIA?

You can prebook all your accommodation with free cancellation in Indonesia  here.

NEED INSPIRATION?

Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa:  a dream place to use as base to leave from for day trips around Jogja. During medium-low season it’s rather easy to find rooms at affordable prices.

With a lower budget it’s still possible to find great stays in Jogja, such as  Nextdoor Homestay  which offers room, breakfast and swimming pool for 20$ only!

In Jakarta,  Yello Hotel Harmoni  is perfect and cheap to spend the night coming or going to the airport.

For Bromo and Ijen volcanoes, it’s much likely that agencies organizing your trip will suggest you a homestay as well, you can check here and see the choice is little and modest.

WEATHER – WHEN TO GO TO JAVA?

Java is subject to a monsoon tropical climate, dry season goes from May to October, rainy season from November to April.

Transition months as May and October are the best period to avoid extreme hot and big tourist crowds.

DO I NEED A TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes you do. Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Even if you trust yourself, you can’t always trust others. Better safe than sorry! Get your quote here.

WHAT ABOUT VACCINES?

It’s always recommendable to check whether you need specific vaccines, in particular if you travel for more than 15 days. Check with a doctor at a medical centre what you could need for Indonesia.

DO I NEED A VISA TO INDONESIA?

Most citizens from Europe and America can enjoy a free visa up to 30 days when visiting Indonesia. For longer stays and to check your citizenship eligibility visit iVisa .

FLIGHTS – WHERE TO START YOUR JAVA TRAVEL?

If you are coming from abroad Jakarta is the most obvious and cheapest choice, although flying to Yogyakarta may be a valid option too in order to skip West Java and proceed from Jogja to Bali.

Arriving from Bali it’s possible to cross the strait by ferry and start your journey from East Java.

TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES – HOW TO BOOK TICKETS IN INDONESIA?

The Indonesian railway link is quite advanced for Southeast Asian standards, with on time, clean and pleasant train services. It’s easy and comfy to travel between Jakarta, Jogja and Surabaya by train, you can read more about it in our detailed article here.

Train tickets can be bought at stations on the same day of traveling. To plan in advance you can book tickets online through reliable agency  Tiket.com .

Traveling by bus is less convenient compared to trains. For shorter distances or steep sections as to climb on volcano sides, the best solution is to deal with local agencies. We spent 50,000 rupiah each, 3$, for a van ride from Probo to Cemoro Luwang, at Mt. Bromo feet.

Ferry tickets are sold at the pier for just 7,000 rupiah, or by paying 100k you can get a joint ferry+bus ticket to Denpasar terminal in Bali , some 100 km away.

WHAT TO EAT IN JAVA?

The most simple and famous Indonesian dishes are  Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and  Mie Goreng (fried noodles), which can be found basically everywhere in all their varieties with chicken, fish, eggs, or vegetarian. Other typical dishes are Sate Ayam (chicken satay), Bakso Mie (meatball soup), Gado Gado (boiled vegetable salad).

That’s all! You are now good to go and plan your journey to Java, should you need any more info, please let us know in the comment section below!

HAPPY TRAVELS THROUGHOUT JAVA!

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Awesome guide guys, really helpful! We are hoping to head over to Java in a few weeks. Had no idea there was a train!

Thank you Alex, we are very glad to help! It was a pleasant surprise for us too, and it was so much easier and comfortable to travel those 8-hour-long routes by train! Safe travels

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One week in java itinerary.

I can understand why so many people visit Bali. It’s got spectacular scenery, a really unique culture, and lovely people. But there is so much more to Indonesia than this one island – which I would argue is a bit of a victim of its own success as it is one of the most overtouristed destinations in the world .

Neighbouring Java, however, has an equally interesting culture, amazing people, and arguably better scenery. I recently spent one week in Java and absolutely fell in love with the place: and I hope that this post inspires many more people to visit the island.

Java travel comprises volcano trekking, gorgeous temples, stunning countryside and dynamic cities. If you want to party, this isn’t the place; but it’s great for nearly everything else.

This Java itinerary will show you the very best of the Indonesian island and detail exactly how to spend a great one week in Java. It’s jam-packed, and great fun!

How to get to Java

I’m writing this Java itinerary based on the presumption that you’ve travelled from Bali to get here. This is indeed a wild assumption, as it’s just as likely that you’ve landed in Jakarta – in which case, do this itinerary in reverse.

But if my wild assumptions are true and you’re heading to Java from Bali, you’ll want to get yourself to Denpasar. Taxi prices to Denpasar can be absolute daylight robbery; if you’re not in the prohibited area you could get a GoJek to save on a bit of rupiah.

I got the bus from Umbung Station. I rocked up to the station at about 1pm and had to wait 45 minutes for a bus. It was a local bus, and cost me 60,000 rupiah – although I’ve been told that it should actually cost 40,000 rupiah.

You’ll be driven for 3.5 hours or so past some spectacular scenery and local life in North Bali – you won’t believe it’s the same island, honestly – to Gilimanuk, where the ferry to Java leaves.

It costs a mere 6,000 rupiah to take the ferry to Java, and takes around an hour. Be sure to head outside when you get there – you can see Java from Bali, and the view is nothing short of spectacular. It will show you exactly what you’re in for during your week in Java island!

From there, you can either get your accommodation to pick you up, or take a taxi. However, be aware that the taxis do have a tendency to overcharge. Asking your accommodation for pick up is the cheapest way of getting to Java.

But Claire, I’m arriving from the other end of the island…

If you’re arriving in Jakarta, you will most likely fly. If you’re got a screw loose like me, you might travel through South Sumatra and get a ferry over, but based on the locals and tourists I spoke to while doing this route,  I’m gonna estimate that about 0.0001% of international travelers do this.

Here’s some helpful information about how to get from Jakarta Airport to the city centre .

How to get around Java  

The best way to get around Java is by train. Buses are readily available, are cheaper and leave more frequently, but they’re slow and can be very uncomfortable. I’d highly recommend taking the train and booking them as soon as you finalise your Java itinerary. You can search for and book transport on these websites.

Where to stay in Java

There are a range of places to stay in Java, from hostels to homestays to hotels. Homestays can be a great way to meet locals, where hostels are good to meet other travelers. Hotels range in standard, with some luxury options being available in Jakarta and Yogyakarta, and only basic guesthouses in places like Cemoro Lawang (for Mount Bromo).

I’ll include some recommended hotels and hostels throughout this itinerary – to book, you can just click through and enter your dates.

WiFi in Java and connectivity  

Java isn’t as good for WiFi as neighbouring Bali, but it’s not too bad. Hostels and hotels will normally have WiFi which ranges in quality – you’ll at least have enough to send a WhatsApp, and in the cities you’ll be able to upload pictures etc. as well. However not that many public spaces like stations and trains in Java have WiFi.

Many people choose to purchase a SIM to avoid the risk of not having a decent internet connection. These can be purchased easily throughout Indonesia and are very cheap.

FYI: All prices are in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). At the time of writing, 1 USD = 14,356.50 IDR, 1 GBP = 18,079.74 IDR, 1 EUR = 16,133.07 IDR and 1 AUD = 9,870.40 IDR.

Banyuwangi (Mount Ijen) – 1 night  

Upon arrival into the delightfully named town Banyuwangi, head to your homestay and organize your Mount Ijen Tour. This can be booked through most homestays and hotels – I booked mine through Banana Homestay and it cost 300,000 IDR – this is because it was on a bank holiday (normally it is 275,000 IDR).

If you’ve got time, Banyuwangi is quite nice for a stroll around, to see all of the coloured buildings and get a feel for small town Java life. Then I’d recommend trying to get some sleep before waking up at the bright-eyed hour of 11:30pm, ready to trek up Ijen.

You’ll be picked up for the tour; remember to wear warm clothing (it gets cold up there!) and to bring your camera and some snacks. Your tour guide will provide you with a gas mask – which is essential for hiking Ijen.

This volcano is seriously one of the best things I’ve ever seen and I recommend it for anyone visiting Java. The blue crater lake is completely eye-catching, the blue flames are fascinating, and the colours as the sun rises are out of this world.

I’ve wrote a full post about hiking Mount Ijen; you can check it out by clicking here .

The tour guide may offer a stop off at a waterfall on the way back – you can decide as a group whether you want to. We all had trains and buses to catch, so decided not to.

There are a few other things to see around Banyuwangi, and you might want to spend a day resting after the hike. If you’ve got time, by all means go for it! However, many people opt to go straight to Bromo – me and my travel mates included.

Where to Stay in Banyuwangi

If you want lovely hosts, personal service and to get a real local experience, look no further than Banana Homestay. The owners of the place make everyone feel so welcome, even serving up a birthday dinner for one of the other guests when I was there!

They also helped us with the Ijen tour, getting buses and trains the next day and even gave us a lift to the bus station.

Book Banana Homestay by clicking here – just look at the reviews and you’ll see what a fantastic place this is!

If you would rather stay in a luxury hotel, eL Hotel Royale Banyuwangi also has very good reviews – click here for more information.

How to get from Banyuwangi to Mount Bromo

You can take a bus or train from Banyuwangi to Probbolingo, and then take a shuttle to Cemoro Lewang for Mount Bromo.

The trains are faster and much more comfortable, but they are quite significantly more expensive and fewer run each day. You can purchase train tickets on Tiket.com and Traveloka .

The bus, on the other hand, is slower, not that comfy at all (try to get eksecutif class if you can – we did the whole trip on the local bus with no A/C!) but very cheap and they come frequently. Bus tickets can be purchased on the spot.  

Mount Bromo – 1 night

Once you get to Probbolingo, you’ll want to transfer to a tourist shuttle up to Cemoro Lewang. Ask around when you get to the train or bus station, and you’ll be pointed in the right direction – most locals know that any tourists in Probbolingo will be looking to go to Cemoro Lewang.  They leave when they are full and take about an hour and a half – the cost is around 40,ooo IDR per person – or if you leave before it is full it will cost more.

They do run quite late; we still managed to get one at around 8pm. If you get there really late, you might be able to take a Grab taxi there.

If you end up in Bromo that late, make sure that you have already eaten! Eat in Probbolingo or get snacks somewhere. Everywhere shuts in Cemoro Lewang (and then opens again at about 3am).

Once you’re fed, try to get a few hours’ sleep before another very early wake up!

I’d recommend leaving at 3am to leave at half 3 – then you’ll make it to the viewpoint at around 5/ half 5, when sunrise starts. There are two viewpoints, King Kong Hill and Penanjakan Hill; King Kong Hill is the one that all of the jeeps go to so maybe check out Penanjakan Hill.

After sunrise, you can hike to the other viewpoint or check out more of the national park. Currently, Mount Bromo itself is closed due to a recent eruption . I still think going to the viewpoint for sunrise is well worth it, but you won’t spend as much time there as normal.

Once you’re all Bromo-d out, head back to Cemoro Lewang for some breakfast or lunch – depending on what time it is – and to hit the road. All of the restaurants that were shut the night before will be full of life now; so take the opportunity to have a meal!

Where to Stay in Cemoro Lewang

Accommodation in Cemoro Lewang isn’t great. You won’t find any luxury hotels here, and even the guesthouses are overpriced and have definitely seen better days. The good news is you’ll only be needing the room for a few hours’ kip and to store your stuff while you’re hiking!

We booked accommodation at the tourist desk where we organised our shuttle – this is a very feasible option. Other people in our shuttle just rocked up and booked there and then.

There are some more ‘resorty’ style places a bit further from Cemoro Lewang, but you won’t be able to walk from there to the national park in the morning. If you’re interested in these kind of places, you can check them out on booking.com .

How to Get from Probbolingo to Yogyakarta

If you decide to head back to Probbolingo, you might want the easiest route to Yogyakarta. If you can hack it, hop on another bus or train; check train times here .

We actually decided to take a shorter bus to Surabaya and stay the night there. There isn’t that much to do here, so I’m not putting it on this Java itinerary (as you only have one week in Java!) but if you can’t face the long journey to Jogya on the same day (don’t blame ya), know that this is an option. We stayed in ‘The Hostel’ which was fine for the night – you can book by clicking here.

Side note: I’m currently travelling overland (and sea) from Bali to London, and here is one of my videos that I made, all about hiking Ijen and Bromo. Enjoy and please follow me on YouTube for more!

Yogyakarta – 3 nights

Whether you travel from Probbolingo or Surabaya, I have no doubt that you’ll be cream crackered when you eventually make it to Yogyakarta. So treat yerself to a nice sleep in, play some cards, get a massage, or do whatever you do to unwind.

If you’ve travelled straight to Jogya, you’ve got three days in Yogyakarta on your Java itinerary. This is a great time to see what the city has to offer.

Day One – Prambanan Temple and Yogyakarta City

Because I didn’t make it to the temples but do feel like they should be a part of your Java itinerary, I enlisted one of my fellow travel bloggers, Sue from Travel For Life Now , to write about them.

Visiting Prambanan  while in Yogyakarta is a must-do. The World UNESCO Heritage Site Prambanan is a complex of 240 Hindu temples decorated with bas reliefs that tell the Indonesian version of the Ramayana stories. It is the largest Hindu Temple in Indonesia. The complex is very spread out and has three zones. Most people focus on the central 3 temples dedicated to Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the Preserver) and Shiva (the Transfomer). The largest Temple (47 meters tall and the one in the middle) is the one dedicated to Vishnu. There is much to see in addition to the main temples.

Walking around is easy and there are many paths. Again, there are steep steps to get up into the Temples. The entrance fee is $25 unless you purchase the $40USD combination ticket for Borobudur.

Once you’re back in the city, I’d recommend spending some time walking around the city centre, enjoying the cafes and street art, and then heading to the Walking Street, where you can purchase street food, souvenirs and clothes afterwards.

Day Two – Borobudur Temple for Sunrise

Sue’s helping me out again with her description of Borobudur temple!

Along with the Merapi volcano , Borobudur was one of the highlights of our time in Yogyakarta. Most people visit for sunrise – which is recommended for this Java itinerary. However do bear in mind that, especially if you visit during rainy season like we did (February) a sunrise/sunset tour may be out due to rain.

Borobudur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , built in the 9 th century in Central Java. The uniquely Javanese design blends element of Buddhism with Indonesian ancestral worship. It is the largest Buddhist Temple in the world and archeologically is as significant as Angkor Wat.

We began walking counter-clockwise on the first of the 9 levels, viewing the very detailed bas reliefs. Then the second level. And, then the clouds rolled in. We hurriedly went to the top to see the stupas on the central dome. The stupas surround the top and one has an exposed Buddha. You can see for miles from the top and the Stupas and Buddhas were stunning.

Borobudur wasn’t very crowded when we were there in late afternoon in February. In high season (especially June/July), it gets very crowded and the sunrise/sunset viewings are full of people. Tickets cost $25USD for adults, and combined tickets for Borobudur and Prambanan cost $40USD.

If you would rather be guided around, local guides are for hire or there are day trips from Yogyakarta to Borobudur, many which factor in the sunrise. The stairs are very steep and good walking shoes are best for the temple visit.

Day Three – Yogyakarta’s Nature

For day number three, rent a scooter (or find some friends with scooters, like I did) and visit the Javanese countryside. Like all of Java, the nature around Jogya is be-a-utiful and well worth some exploration. Just riding around on the bike is a good time – but there are also various caves and points of interest to see on the way.

So, I’d highly recommend not doing what we did. We were told by two people that the cave we wanted to go (Jomblang Cave) to was shut, so we ended up following some other guys to Pindil Cave. We paid 100 IDR to go tubing here, which isn’t all that much money but is a bit costly for Indo – and then got there to find the place full of schoolchildren. Like absolutely packed – I’ve never seen anything like it!

Thing is, I’m not so sure that Jomblang Cave was actually shut all along. I’d recommend checking with your hostel before you leave to clarify, and leaving early!

Once you’ve seen the cave, the Javenese coastline is not too far away. These include beautiful spots like Pok Tunggal and Sundak Beach. If you do venture down there, know that Yogyakarta City is a  drive away, so be sure to leave plenty of time to return!

I’m going to suggest that you take a night train this night to get to Jakarta. It leaves at 10pm and you’ll arrive at about 6am. Book tickets online via Traveloaka (I used this website) or Tiket (which people I met used, but for some reason didn’t accept my card).

An extra day in Yogyakarta: Kalibiru National Park

I haven’t been here, but am planning to visit when I next go to Yogyakarta because it looks absolutely INCREDIBLE. Kalibiru National Park is 1-2 hours from Yogyakarta (you can reach it by private or shared car, or bus and ojek scooter) and has epic viewpoints like the following:

If you have an extra day or so to spend in Yogyakarta, I reckon this would be a well worthwhile addition. You can see more information about it here.

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

If you’re after a hostel, Laura’s Backpackers is exceptional. Rates include a free breakfast and dinner (all vegetarian, not all vegan but I made it work) and the hostel has a lovely, chilled social atmosphere without being a party place. Click here to learn more and to book.

For something a little bit different, Yabbiekayu Eco-Bunglows is located 9km out of the city and was somewhere I was considering staying at. It enjoys Java’s countryside while being in striking distance of Yogyakarta. Click here to learn more and book.

The boutique-y Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta is a great luxury option, with great reviews, spacious rooms, a pool, fitness centre, restaurant and bar on site. Click here to read more about this hotel.

Jakarta – 1 night  

The capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is, unfortunately, most well-known for its traffic . I was greeted with this sobering fact as soon as I tried to cross a road in the city – it’s impossible. Take Go Jeks around.

Apart from chat about the traffic (which we Brits all love to do), there are some fun things to do in Jakarta. The Museum of Indonesia is there and worth seeing, and if you happen to visit on the 24th April like me, it’s free!

Other attractions include:

• The Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in South East Asia and which visitors can have a guided tour of.
• The beautiful Jakarta Cathedral
• The streets of Kota Tua, Jakarta’s old town
• The authentic Batavia Café which has a lot of old-world charm
• Various other museums: the Bank Indonesia Museum, the Maritime Musueum and the Wayang Museum

As I only spent a day in Jakarta, I can’t give hugely extensive travel advice, but check out this post of things to do in Jakarta for some more tips.

Where to Stay in Jakarta

I Couchsurfed when I was in Jakarta, so can’t personally recommend anywhere, but I have heard amazing things about Six Degrees Hostel – and it definitely seems to have all I look for in a hostel. Click here for more information and to book.

If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in Java, Holiday Inn & Suites Jakarta Gajah Mada has great reviews, a pool, spacious rooms and is in the city centre. Click here for more information and to book.

Or, for luxury, Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, has huge rooms with lavish features like floor to ceiling windows and roll-top baths. There is a pool, fitness centre and bar on site and reviewers love the friendly staff and spaciousness of the rooms. Click here for more information and to book.

Need to know for Java travel  

• I’d really recommend taking the trains over bus in Java. The trains are spacious, fast and reliable – the buses are cramped, slow, and never get to where you want on time. The trains do generally need to be booked in advance though. Try Tiket or Traveloka for your booking needs.
• If you do decide to get the buses, it kinda is worth it to splash out a little and get the Ekspress buses rather than the Ekonomi buses. And for Pete’s sakes bring some snacks.
• Something else that’s kinda fun is that with many Ekspress buses, you can get a combo ticket that includes lunch. I never did this, as I’m pretty sure that nothing was vegan, but it’s worth mentioning.
• Oh yeah, the food in Java for vegans can be interesting. I ate just rice and spicy sauce a couple of times. That’s what dreams are made of. BUT I survived.

Sustainable Travel in Java

Indonesia has a huge plastic problem . Plastic is used everywhere here, and because it’s an island, it goes pretty much straight into the sea.

Please be mindful of this while on your Java itinerary. I know it’s easy to forget, especially when we’re offered bags all the time and everything is served in plastic cups, but we can’t have our tourism to Java be negatively affecting it. And by using so much single-use plastic, it is.

Bring a water to go bottle , a material bag , a reusable cup , metal straws , tupperware and reusable cutlery , and you won’t have to use any single-use items. There’s no excuse for single use , in Java or anywhere else in the world. You can click through on the items above to purchase them from Amazon.

As always, I’d highly recommend trains over planes, because it’s way more sustainable. The buses are also a better option than flying, and in the cities if it’s just you and you’re happy to, use Go Jek motorbikes or public transport rather than taxis.

As I mentioned, Java’s not the most vegan-friendly place, and while I really don’t think I could consciously eat animal products now I understand everyone’s journey is different and some people aren’t there. But do think about the environmental impacts of eating meat anywhere in the world and try a few meat-free meals in Java – I recommend Padang Vegan Damai in Yogyakarta (I went here for lunch twice one day) and The Loving Hut in Jakarta. I promise they’re good! You can use HappyCow to find vegetarian/ vegan restaurants and options anywhere in the world.

Remember to always be kind and considerate to the locals – you’re in there country after all. Sometimes things won’t always go to plan on your Java itinerary – try not to get angry about it, things just run differently here and it’s part of the adventure!

Try to support locals by eating at local restaurants (very easy to find here!), staying at homestays when possible and purchasing souvenirs from local stalls. If you’re coming from Bali, you’ll find Java has a lot less catered to tourists, which is great – many more opportunities to integrate with locals and make us being there a pleasant experience for all!

Javanese people are incredibly friendly and kind, and remember that even if you don’t have a common language, a smile and a laugh goes a long way.

Where from Java?

As you all know, overland travel is BAE for me, so I carried on from Jakarta over land (and sea) to Sumatra. The result was a 60-hour bus through South Sumatra to Pekanbaru. Would I recommend this? I’m not sure. I’ll blog about it later, but I’ll just say it was simultaneously one of the best and worst travel experiences of my life.

Most people opt to fly out of Jakarta. Normally I’d always urge people to overland, but here – I can’t really blame ya. From Jakarta you can get cheap flights to elsewhere in Indonesia, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and other destinations.

Click here for my two days in Singapore itinerary , or here for a 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary . If you’re worried about your travel budget, here’s an idea of how much you’ll spend in Malaysia .

Or if you’re wanting to explore elsewhere in Indonesia, check out my posts about Bali:

• 2-3 weeks in Bali itinerary
• How to find ethical animal experiences in Bali
• How to explore Bali on a budget
• The impacts of tourism in Bali

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please share it!

I’m travelling from Bali to London without flying – follow me on YouTube for more.

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15 Awesome Things To Do In East Java, Indonesia

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: December 2, 2023

Categories INDONESIA

East Java is a land unlike no other. Most regions boast one or two-star attractions but what I found on my road trip is that each day just kept getting better. The next waterfall just got bigger and bigger and the volcanoes became more and more impressive. After 10 days exploring East Java by car, I was blown away.

• I created an interactive map that shows you all the spots in this guide and also includes where to stay, time between each spot and loads of helpful information. It took me a long time to make so I hope it helps you plan your trip. If you want to check it out it is available for download here: East Java Interactive Road Trip Map

Table of Contents

EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE

In this guide, I will share with you a list of the best things to do in East Java, Indonesia. I’ll also share with you a suggested itinerary and some helpful tips for your visit to the region.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN EAST JAVA

• Surabaya: Bumi Surabaya Resort – Perfect oasis in the middle of Surabaya
• Near Bromo: Royal Orchids Hotel – Huge hotel with classy rooms and pool
• Near Ijen: Ijen Resort & Villas – Amazing garden, pool and views

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO EXPLORE EAST JAVA

We spent 10 days exploring all of the best things to do in East Java and even with our level of intensity, we didn’t come close to visiting all the spots we wanted to. I know not everyone has the same desire to see every inch of the destination as myself so with that in mind, I would recommend 7-10 days for the regular traveler. For the traveler who likes to spend two nights in a place cause they like to do it a bit more relaxed, you won’t be bored with 2 weeks.

7 days is the minimum in my book. Anything less than that and you will be visiting only the common, popular destinations. I call those surface scraper trips and while they are fun, you get some great photos, you kind of miss the point of the adventure sometimes. 7-10 days minimum and you will be golden for the trip of a lifetime! Trust me.

If you don’t trust me I have created the entire itinerary below so you can see that you will waste no second and even with 10 days you will be tired the entire time as East Java kicks your ass but wow she is beautiful so it is damn worth it!

THINGS TO DO IN EAST JAVA

Let’s get into these epic places to visit in East Java. These are all the nature-based, adventurous spots, but East Java does have a lot of interesting mosques and points of interest in the cities if that is your cup of tea. On this blog, I stick to outdoor adventures for the most part.

I’m going to put these in the order we visited them to help you plan your trip. I will also post my itinerary below (map provided). We, of course, missed out on several spots like hiking Semeru (often closed due to volcanic activity) and other awesome East Java activities but you can’t do it all and there is always next time! Most of the places on the list below have an individual blog post with more details and photos so you can click on the link to read those if you need. So here we go…

JODIPAN VILLAGE (THE COLORFUL VILLAGE & THE BLUE VILLAGE)

Only twenty minutes from Malang is a curious village called Kampung Warna-Warni Jodipan. This village was struggling. It was dilapidated, polluted, and struggling to build a healthy community. Eight students from a nearby university, who were studying event management, decided to apply their knowledge to a real-world situation.

Partnering with a local paint company, the students created a social responsibility project. 6,000 pounds of colorful paint was donated and the run-down city was transformed into a colorful village with a bright future.

The village now has a small entrance fee for tourists (only 30 US cents) and the colors have brought in much-needed interest and financing for a village that needed a boost. Tourists will often buy a drink, lunch, or souvenirs from the locals. The standard of living has risen and has inspired members of the community to continue improving the village with projects like improving sanitation and pollution.

One on side of the bridge is the ‘Colorful village’ and on the other side is an entirely blue village (Kampung Biru Arema). In a similar fashion, this village has been painted entirely blue.

COBAN TALUN WATERFALL

Coban Talun is a beautiful waterfall in Batu City near Malang in East Java. It’s only a 20-minute walk along a sandy trail before you can enjoy the stunning waterfall, viewpoints, and caves. As well as the waterfall there is a camping ground and a specialized photography/hangout area with photo perches, wings, and other cool photo opportunities.

Once we reached the bottom of the falls, there were a number of huts set up but it seemed they were only used in high season. We had the whole place to ourselves at 9 am in the morning.

There are several cool rocks, which make great spots to take photos but our favorite area was down at ground level in the pool of water. It was freezing but incredible to watch the water trickling down the waves. You can also explore inside the caves behind the waterfall.

Definitely try and visit this waterfall in the rainy season. It was still cool during the dry season but would be 10x more epic with a huge flow of water crashing down!

Need more information? Full blog post: Coban Talun Waterfall

BEST INSURANCE FOR TRAVELERS

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TUMPAK SEWU WATERFALL

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (also known as Coban Sewu) is arguably Indonesia’s best waterfall. It isn’t the largest, even in East Java, but is definitely the most impressive. From above it looks like the tree of life, from below it is immensely powerful and from all angles, it is quite simply mind-blowing.

The first thing you want to do on your Tumpak Sewu Waterfall adventure from Lumajang is to wake up early. Be at the Tumpak Sewu viewpoint for sunrise. Although the sun won’t be on the waterfall, this is actually what you want.

The fog is beautiful in the morning and creates a mystical atmosphere. In the background, Semeru Volcano will be giving you a beautiful backdrop, while Tumpak Sewu slowly comes into focus as the light increases.

Get down to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall on ground level before the sun rises over the waterfall. The trail is right next to the viewpoint where you were for sunrise. It takes about 10-15 minutes to walk down into the canyon and then about another 5 minutes to walk through the canyon to the waterfall.

The trail down is pretty sketchy with bamboo ladders and sections where you are walking through small streams but it is nothing too crazy. Just be prepared and definitely wear shoes, not flip-flops.

Once you reach the canyon you start to get an idea of the scale of the walls. You are an ant within the gorge and you know you are about to witness something incredible. After turning the final corner you will never forget the moment you enter the cauldron at the foot of Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It is pure magic with more than thirty different waterfalls plummeting down into the cauldron into tiny pools below.

Need more information? Full blog post: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in Lumajang

GOA TETES WATERFALL

Goa Tetes Waterfall in Lumajang was one of the most surprising places on our ten-day travels throughout East Java. We came to visit Tumpak Sewu, the famous waterfall nearby, and were recommended to stop past Goa Tetes Waterfall on the way back. It was an incredible sight in its own right with unbelievable caves inside the waterfall. It was the most unique waterfall we visited in all of East Java!

Goa Tetes is essentially a collection of caves and waterfalls all the way up the cliff. You walk up the stream until you reach the caves. From here the adventure is up to you with so many different caves to explore. We scaled one cave in particular and it went really far back into darkness, while the waterfall poured down over the top of us. Absolutely incredible!

Need more information? Full blog post: Goa Tetes Waterfall in Lumajang

KABUT PELANGI WATERFALL

Kabut Pelangi was one of my favorite waterfalls in East Java. The waterfall crashes down into the amphitheater below, which is covered in lush green plants. The trek down to Kabut Pelangi takes about 25 minutes in total. The trail is paved a lot of the way and when it’s not the conditions aren’t very difficult.

The 100m+ Kabut Pelangi is an incredible sight. The force it generates when it hits the pool below is incredible and this is definitely not a place you want to go swimming! Kabut Pelangi translates to waterfall rainbow mist. If you catch the conditions at the right time you will be able to see a rainbow in the mist at the bottom of the waterfall!

Need more information? Full blog post: Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

KAPAS BIRU WATERFALL

Kapas Biru Waterfall is amazing. One huge, thundering stream of water crashes down from what seems like 100m. The pool at the bottom of the waterfall is smashed with the force of the crashing water. It then streams down the river, which has scattered rocks and plants throughout making it a beautiful lead up to the waterfall.

Need more information? Full blog post: Kapas Biru Waterfall

What are my favorite pieces of travel gear?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never travel without. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my travel essentials.

• Packing Cube Set : Once you cube you’ll never go back. Organize your clothes within your luggage with these smart mesh containers. It will revolutionize your packing.
• Quick-Dry Towel : A quick-dry towel is a must for travelers. It hardly takes up any room and dries in seconds.
• Travel Wallet : Keep your passport, wallet, and vaccine card safe as well as any forms and important documents you need to store.
• Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

COBAN SRITI WATERFALL

From Kapas Biru, it takes about 20 minutes of scrambling across rocks and river crossings to reach Coban Sriti Waterfall. Two huge streams of water plummet down at least 100 meters onto the huge rocks below. The rocks below must have cracked off the cliff at some stage as they are the size of houses!

At the base of this waterfall, it is incredibly slippery and cold! We hung out here and took photos for a while. It was about 9 am when we arrived and the lighting was quite harsh. I would suggest arriving here just after sunrise or later on in the afternoon but during the harsh sun, it was not easy at all to take photos due to the difference in shadows and light areas.

My favorite part of this area was the huge cauldron. The walls of the cliffs are completely smooth and they seem to encapsulate you as you enjoy the waterfall.

Need more information? Full blog post: Coban Sriti Waterfall

PAPUMA BEACH

Papuma Beach is a white sand beach with amazing crystal clear blue water! We had no idea it would be so popular. We had to pay 45,000 rupiah, which is only about $3.50 USD but one of the more expensive tickets we paid throughout our time in East Java.

The beach itself is beautiful. It has those crystal clear waters and white sand combinations that people dream of on vacations. Colorful boats line the beach, waiting to take tourists on a voyage around the nearby rocky islets.

The rocky islets make a great backdrop for a fun day of hanging out in the sun with that refreshing blue water waiting there for you all day! It is a popular spot with a huge parking lot and multiple restaurants. It is not for people looking to have a private beach type of experience. It would be perfect for a family who prioritizes facilities, restaurants, and ease of access over the adventure.

Need more information? Full blog post: Papuma Beach 

PAYANGAN BEACH & VIEWPOINT

Payangan Beach is a pretty unique black sand beach. There are several hill viewpoints here such as Teluk Love and Bukit Domba. We decided to climb up Bukit Domba, which was right next to the black sand beach.

The entry was $1 USD and it was a bit full on with huts and paths everywhere. It wasn’t very natural at all but still cool to get up there for a good view of the region.

There are lots of spot for photos out over the beach and huts to relax in. It seemed to be a hotspot for local couples to hang out and chat in the huts. After climbing up the viewpoint in the hot sun, we headed back to refresh in the waters on the black sand beach.

Don’t go out of your way to visit Payangan in my opinion, but if you go to Papuma it is only five minutes away so it’s worth an hour extra of your day. Also, I should mention that it will look much nicer with green hills in the rainy season but we visited in the dry season so the hills look brown and dead.

Need more information? Full blog post: Payangan Beach and viewpoint

PULAU MERAH AT RED ISLAND

Pulau Merah was a beautiful spot. In fact, it was probably one of my favorite sunset spots in all of East Java. There is a huge rocky island out in the ocean, almost like Cannon Beach in Oregon. The water is warm, and the waves are good enough to surf.

After a long driving day, we really enjoyed watching the sun go down over the layered mountains in the distance. The reflections on the sand from the receding water made for some special photos. The photos below are from sunset and sunrise as we decided to stay the night at Red Island/Pulau Merah.

CYPRESS TREE TUNNEL: JAWATA BENCULUK

Jawata Benculuk as it is known in Bahasa is an epic collection of Cypress Trees just out of Genteng Town. The spot has become increasingly popular and now there are many treehouses and other interesting structures built in the area. The tree tunnels are one of the most unique things to visit in East Java.

The cypress trees are phenomenal. Vines hang from all of the twisted branches. In a moody fog they look straight out of a horror film and when the sun shines through it looks like a magical forest. There is no bad weather to visit this forest.

Need more information? Full blog post: Cypress Tree Tunnel: Jawata Benculuk

HIKE IJEN CRATER

Waking up in the middle of the night and trekking up and then inside a crater sound enticing? Add a gas mask and walk into a cloud of sulfur gas while watching blue flames. Enticed yet? You should be. Ijen Crater is one of the most epic adventures in East Java.

The best, guided tour that is reliable and can be booked in advance is this one: GUIDED SUNRISE MOUNT IJEN CRATER HIKE

Guided Ijen Sunrise Hike

• Includes Transfers
• Includes Gas Mask
• Guide is helpful in the night

Sulfur mining has been underway at Ijen Crater since 1968. The combustion of sulfuric gases creates a blue glow, which has become famous as the ‘blue flame of Ijen Crater. I’m sorry but I didn’t fancy coughing on sulfur for 20 minutes to shoot a long exposure of the blue flame. To be honest it is something best enjoyed with the eye.. for 2 minutes then get the hell out!

After the blue flame expedition, you head on further up and around the crater rim to the ‘sunrise spot’ to complete the adventure.

Need more information? Full blog post: Hiking Ijen Crater

ISLAND HOPPING: TABUHAN AND MENJANGAN ISLAND

The Banyuwangi region of East Java is home to some of the best beaches Java has to offer. I did an island hopping tour to three locations with Bangsring Underwater tours. We visited Tabuhan Island, Menjangan Island and Rumah Apung.

Menjangan Island is actually accessible quite easily from West Bali National Park. We could have swum over to Bali from Menjangan Island, which was pretty cool. The island is 3,800Ha and it’s Savannah terrain is home to unique Javan Rusa deer known as ‘Menjangan’, which is how the island received its name.

There are a couple of beaches on Menjangan with white sand and clear water. There are many great spots to relax on this tropical island and with warm crystal clear water it is perfect.

However, the best activities are in the water. The snorkeling and diving at Menjangan Island are great! Corl gardens and extensive marine life make it a perfect spot for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Tabuhan Island was my favorite part of the whole trip. This island was completely empty except for us. The water was incredible. It looked like drinking water it was so clear with the sun making beautiful patterns on the sand beneath the surface.

Tabuhan is only 5 hectares large but as you can see the reef below the surface is actually quite large in itself. In just fifteen minutes you can circle the entire island.

Need more information? Full blog post: Tabuhan Island & Menjangan Island Boat Tour

 MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL

Madakaripura Waterfall or Air Terjun Madakaripura as it is known locally is one of the most spectacular waterfalls not only in East Java and Indonesia but also in the world.

The first part of Madakaripura Waterfall is actually just the lead-up to the main waterfall but it is equally impressive. Water streams down the lush green walls into the river below. For most of the way you can walk through the river without getting wet but there are some points you have to pass through the falling water. This is truly one of the most magical spots I have ever been.

• MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE & MADARAKIPURA WATERFALL TOUR : For a little bit extra, combine the Mount Bromo Sunrise with a visit to the best waterfall in East Java.

The main waterfall crashes down into a pool that is a vivid turquoise color. The waterfall is inside a narrow keyhole amphitheater. About 80m in length and 30m in width this is a small area. When you look up you can see the leafy walls curving around you, which is an amazing feeling.

Need more information? Full blog post:  Madakaripura Waterfall

KING KONG HILL SUNRISE VIEWPOINT OF MOUNT BROMO

After freezing our butts off driving the mopes for 2 hours, we reached King Kong Hill for sunrise. Well not quite, we made it to a hill nearby. King Kong Hill is super packed but there are tons of different viewpoints nearby. The viewpoints all look out over the ‘Sea of Sand’.

Inside this sea of sand are five volcanoes, one of which is Mount Bromo. The ridges on the volcanoes are just insane and I promise you this is one of the most epic landscapes you will ever witness at sunrise in your life!

As you can see this blog makes it clear you don’t NEED a guided tour but it makes it much easier and potentially more organized and enjoyable with a guide who knows all the spots and timings to make sure you enjoy your Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour. There are two tours I recommend, which both have almost 1000 positive reviews. Here they are:

• BEST VALUE MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE TOUR : For just $25 this tour includes hotel pick-up, jeep drive to Mount Bromo, watching the sunrise, do the small hike up the volcano and then drop off at the hotel. Everything you need!

Need more information? Full blog post: Mount Bromo without a tour

HIKE UP MOUNT BROMO

Mount Bromo is one of the most incredible volcanoes in the world. It just so happens to be surrounded by several other volcanoes in one of the most magnificent landscapes you will ever set eyes on.

Mount Bromo (known as Gunung Bromo in the local language of Bahasa) is an active volcano. It is part of the Tengger Massif region in East Java, Indonesia, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in all of East Java and even Java itself.

The volcano is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. If you are wondering what the term ‘Bromo’ means you are correct if you guessed it held some great significance. It is derived from the Javanese pronunciation of ‘Brahma, which is the Hindu creator god.

It’s really an epic half-day adventure. After the sunrise at King Kong Hill, you go hang out in the ‘Sea of Sand’ on your motorbike or in your tour jeep. Finally, you hike up Mount Bromo to the summit where you will see an astounding crater that literally looks like hell on earth as it bubbles with sulfur at the bottom of the massive pit.

EAST JAVA ITINERARY

• Arrive Surabaya
• Drive to Malang
• Stay the night in Malang
• Sunrise at Jodipan colorful village and blue village
• Coban Talun Waterfall
• Drive to Lumajang
• Stay the night in Lumajang
• Tumpak Sewu panoramic viewpoint for sunrise
• Tumpak Sewu short hike to the base of the waterfall
• Goa Tetes Waterfall
• Kabut Pelangi Waterfall
• Coban Sriti Waterfall
• Kapas Biru Waterfall

Day 5: 

• Drive to Papuma Beach
• Papuma Beach
• Payangan Beach and viewpoint
• Drive to Red Island (Pulau Merah)
• Sunset at Pulau Merah
• Stay the night at Red Island
• Green Bay Beach (costs $15 we arrived and left due to the fee, it did look nice though)
• Drive to Banyuwangi
• Visit the Cypress tree tunnel: Jawata Benculuk
• Visit Pantai Boom for sunset
• Stay the night in Banyuwangi town (sleep from 8-midnight then leave for Ijen)
• At midnight head to Ijen Crater
• Hike Ijen Crater
• Drive to Watudodol
• Stay the night in Watudodol
• Island hopping to Tabuhan Island and Menjangan Island
• Drive to Probollingo
• Stay the night in Probollingo
• Visit Madakaripura Waterfall
• Other waterfalls in the area if you have any energy left by this point!
• Prepare for Bromo
• Leave Probollingo at 2 am and drive to Bromo
• King Kong Hill for sunrise
• Hike to Bromo summit
• Drive back to Probollingo
• Drive back to Surabaya

Most epic Indonesian road trip ever is complete!

OUR EAST JAVA MAP ( ITINERARY)

I’ve created the map below to show you how the journey will look. We received a lot of local advice on our route and everything was done for a specific reason. I’m sure there are many ways to do things but I know it is great to visualize the journey first and then you can pick and choose which things you definitely want to do and work that into your time frame. As you can see on the map, it begins in Surabaya and then follows the itinerary I’ve written out above.

MOTORBIKE OR CAR FOR EAST JAVA ROAD TRIP

Before arriving in East Java, I could never have imagined wanting to rent a car in Southeast Asia. I mean to be fair the roads are mayhem and only locals who have grown up navigating the craziness can usually handle the traffic and the maneuvers required to survive the drive. However, I had a tip-off from a friend that a car would be beneficial for our trip given the long distances between key attractions. This isn’t Bali by any means.

We decided to rent a car and found some numbers online once we landed in Surabaya. There was no easy way to rent a car online or a registered shop that we found at that time.

Within an hour of waiting at a cafe, we had a company drive a car down to us. We negotiated 300,000 rupiahs per day for a very new, white SUV. That came out to about 20 USD. Split between the two of us we were paying $10 a day for transport.

In our 10 day journey, we filled up the gas 3 times (like I said a lot of driving), which cost us $25 USD each time. So, let’s say about $15 per day each for gas and transport for the entire trip!

A motorbike or moped would cost anywhere from $6-10 a day depending on your negotiation skills and availability. Gas is a few dollars per tank.

So why the car? There were often drives of 6 hours. For example from Tumpak Sewu to Ijen crater you are looking at a six-hour journey. We didn’t even make that journey we stopped halfway and it was still a mammoth drive. You need to focus every second as cars tend to drive on the wrong side of the directly at you, forget they have the ability to indicate and try and overtake you in gaps that they create!

We felt much safer in the car and were much more comfortable in the piercing heat. It made it easy to navigate as my passenger, Nic, assumed that role for the trip and we actually did a lot of planning and research in the car on the way to destinations. It also meant we didn’t have to unpack and pack everything we owned every time we moved.

The last huge bonus was storing things. When we did a hike or visited a waterfall, we simply took our camera backpacks and left everything else scattered in the car. I love moped and motorbike adventures don’t get me wrong and usually, I would snub the car.

However, for East Java, if you plan to cover it all, I would highly recommend the car. If you are solo it is a toss-up as the car may be a bit pricey.

Sidenote: we rented a moped for one day because we thought it would be fun to whip around at Mount Bromo. We weren’t wrong.

I hope you enjoyed this East Java Travel Guide and have a great trip!

MORE EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDES

• The Ultimate Guide: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN EAST JAVA
• Mount Bromo without a guide:   MOUNT BROMO WITHOUT A TOUR
• Ijen Crater Trek:   IJEN CRATER TREK AND THE BLUE FLAME
• Madakaripura Waterfall:   MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
• Island hopping in East Java:   TABUHAN ISLAND & MENJANGAN ISLAND
• East Java Beaches:   PAPUMA BEACH AND PAYANGAN BEACH

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING IN EAST JAVA

Traveling in East Java, Indonesia offers a wealth of diverse landscapes, cultural attractions, and adventure opportunities. Here are some things to know before you visit:

• Location and Access: East Java is located in the eastern part of Java Island, Indonesia. It is accessible through Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, the capital city of East Java. Surabaya is well-connected to major cities in Indonesia and international destinations.
• Mount Bromo : East Java is famous for Mount Bromo, an active volcano and one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Mount Penanjakan and explore the otherworldly landscape of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.
• Cultural Heritage: East Java is rich in cultural heritage. The city of Surabaya has historical sites such as the House of Sampoerna, a museum showcasing Indonesia’s clove cigarette industry, and the Heroes Monument, a symbol of Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
• Javanese Traditions: East Java is home to Javanese culture, and you can experience traditional dances, music, and batik fabric production. Explore the ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples of Singosari and Trowulan, which reflect the region’s historical significance.
• City of Malang: Malang is a charming city in East Java known for its colonial-era architecture, cool climate, and vibrant culinary scene. The city offers attractions like Jatim Park, Batu Night Spectacular, and the beautiful flower gardens of Selecta.
• Surabaya Culinary Delights: Surabaya is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like rawon (a beef soup), lontong balap (a dish with rice cakes, bean sprouts, and tofu), and rujak cingur (a salad with cow snout). Explore the lively local markets for authentic culinary experiences.
• Madura Island: East Java includes Madura Island, famous for its distinct culture and culinary specialties like sate Madura (Madurese satay). You can cross the Suramadu Bridge, one of Indonesia’s longest bridges, to visit this island and explore its unique traditions.
• Waterfalls and Nature Treks: East Java offers stunning waterfalls such as Coban Rondo, Madakaripura, and Tumpak Sewu. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy trekking in the Ijen Crater to witness the mesmerizing blue flames and sulfur mining activities.
• Beaches and Islands: East Java boasts beautiful beaches and islands. Visit the pristine white sand beaches of Pulau Sempu, Red Island (Pulau Merah), or explore the underwater world while snorkeling or diving around the Karimunjawa Islands.
• Transportation: Public transportation in East Java mainly consists of buses, trains, and taxis. Renting a car or motorbike provides more flexibility for exploring remote areas. It is advisable to plan your routes in advance and check local transportation schedules.

Remember to respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and carry a phrasebook or translation app as English may not be widely spoken in some areas. Enjoy your trip to East Java and immerse yourself in its captivating culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality!

Monday 5th of February 2024

Wow!! Thank you so much. This is so helpful!!

Luzian Jung

Wednesday 23rd of August 2023

Hi thanks fir the useful insight! Where did you rent the car, or do you have a contact or something like this? Would be very grateful! All the Best Luzian

Marilyn CASSOUS

Thursday 17th of August 2023

Great article and very useful. Very beautiful pictures. Thank you

Friday 23rd of June 2023

This is an excellent article! I'm excited to revisit Surabaya and delve deeper into its wonders. My previous experience in 2015 was truly unforgettable, spending two weeks exploring Jombang, Kertosono, Mojokerto, and other charming towns. The Viyana Hotel in Jombang was absolutely fantastic! Even though Surabaya may not have been widely known at the time, there are still incredible attractions and mouthwatering cuisine to savor. On a separate note, if you're located in the UK and planning a trip to Latvia, we're a trusted visa provider based in London. Feel free to reach out to us for all your Latvia visa requirements!

josh williamson

Thursday 22nd of June 2023

Great article! Can't wait to revisit and explore further. I had an amazing experience in Surabaya back in 2015, staying for two weeks. Explored Jombang, Kertosono, Mojokerto, and other small towns. The Viyana Hotel in Jombang was awesome! Despite not being popular then, there are still incredible sights and delicious food to enjoy. By the way, if you're in the UK and planning to visit Hungary, we're a visa provider in London. Contact us for your Hungary visa needs!

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3 Week Indonesia Itinerary – Java, Bali, and Komodo National Park

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Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Sarah Puckett

If you are planning a trip to Indonesia, you are already doing something right. Indonesia is one of my favorite countries I’ve ever visited. The people are warm and kind, the food is great, and it’s safe and easy to get around. On top of that, the natural sights are incredible. From beaches to mountains to incredible wildlife, Indonesia is a traveler’s dream! My 3 week Indonesia itinerary is a perfect introduction to this country for first-timers, or repeat travelers who haven’t dived into Java, Bali, or Komodo National Park just yet!

Table of Contents

3 Week Indonesia Itinerary Day-by-Day

Days 1-2: bandung and kawah putih (white lake).

I recommend flying into Bandung, Java . While Jakarta is more of a hub than Bandung, Indonesia’s capital city doesn’t offer much to visitors. You can fly internationally into Bandung just as easily! Bandung is a good glimpse into contemporary city life in Indonesia. Locals also consider it a great place for shopping.

There isn’t much to do within the city itself, but there are some great day tour options you can do in the surrounding area. This is what makes a visit to Bandung worthwhile.

Day Trips from Bandung

I highly recommend visiting Kawah Putih , also called the White Lake. It’s got a spooky, otherworldly vibe that makes it different from any other place I’ve visited. You can book a tour online or arrange a driver with your hotel. We booked this tour on Klook for about $50 USD/person.

>>> Click here to book the Kawah Putih (White Lake) Tour we took in Bandung

Another popular option is visiting the volcanic crater of Tangkuban Perahu . We opted not to visit this place because we’d heard the hawkers selling souvenirs are overwhelming and ruin the experience a bit. That said, if you’re in Bandung for a few days, you could visit this one as well as Kawah Putih.

Book Day Tours in Bandung:

Where to Stay in Bandung

For accommodation, I highly recommend the Four Points Sheraton (from USD 70/night). It’s in a beautiful old white building, the breakfast is fantastic, and there’s a nice rooftop restaurant with views over the city.

>>> Click here to book the hotel we stayed at in Bandung!

Days 3-5: Batukaras and Green Canyon

From Bandung, you can hire a private or shared van transfer to Batukaras , a small fishing and surfing village about 45 minutes outside of the beach resort city of Pangandaran . A shared van will cost about $15 to USD 30 per person.

Where to Stay in Batukaras

You could choose to stay in Pangandaran, but the vibe at Batukaras is worth going a little bit out of the way for. There is a good backpacker and surfer scene near the beach, with some accommodation options catering to surfers there as well. We stayed a 15-minute walk from the beach, along the Green River at this Airbnb . The rooms are comfortable and the host is nice and ready to help with anything you need.

>>> Click here to book the Airbnb we stayed at in Batukaras!

Body Rafting in Green Canyon

Regardless of where you stay, you can ask your host to arrange a body rafting trip through the Green Canyon (about USD 30/per person). This activity is adventurous and a lot of fun, requiring a bit of swimming, climbing, and hiking through the canyon. It’s not for the faint-hearted, however. I recommend checking out my guide to what to expect body rafting in the Green Canyon to see if it’s right for you. If it’s not your speed, rest assured – more docile boat tours to the canyon are also available.

>>> Click here to book a body rafting tour in Green Canyon

>>> Click here to read our blog post about body rafting Green Canyon

Days 6-9: Yogyakarta

You can arrange a van transfer to Yogyakarta from Batukaras for about $30. Your accommodation should be able to help you arrange this.

Yogyakarta is one of Indonesia’s most popular destinations, thanks to the impressive temple complexes of Borobudur (Buddhist) and Prambanan (Hindu).

>>> Click here to search hotels in Yogyakarta

Visiting Borobudur

Borobudur , an ancient Buddhist temple complex, is Indonesia’s biggest tourist attraction.

Construction started in 825 AD, but it wasn’t until the 1800s that the complex drew international attention or even domestic attention for that matter. For the better part of a millennium, the complex was more or less abandoned. A $25 million USD restoration project later, 2.5 million tourists now visit annually.

To enjoy the visit, most people recommend coming as part of a sunrise tour. This gives visitors access to the complex before it officially opens. In particular, we found that lingering around after the sunrise crowds leave but before the daytime groups arrive is well worth it to have a bit of solitude.

Visiting Prambanan

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple compound in Southeast Asia. Built around 900 AD, it has some strong Angkor Wat vibes thanks to its similar shape and Buddhist-Hindu mixed architecture. Our guide led us around and explained the motifs and stories behind the carved images and statues.

You could space out your explorations in this area over a few days, but you can also easily visit both of the temples on the same day. I recommend booking a guided tour so that you have someone who can teach you about the history and cultural importance behind the temples. We booked this tour using our Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Book Tours in Yogyakarta:

Day 10: Surabaya

Some buses and trains connect Yogyakarta to Surabaya , but it’s much more comfortable to take a private van for about $30.

Take it easy in Surabaya. I’ve included this large city in my Indonesia itinerary since it’s a logical departure point for trips through East Java (described below). If you do choose to spend more than a stopover night here, The Crazy Tourist has some ideas for how you could spend your time.

>>> Click here to search hotels in Surabaya

Days 11-13: Surabaya to Bali tour via Madakaripura Waterfall, Mount Bromo, and Mount Ijen

From Surabaya, I recommend hiring a driver or booking a tour through East Java to Bali.

Things to do in East Java

• Madakaripura Waterfall – Java’s tallest waterfall and the second tallest in Indonesia. Expect to get wet on the short hike!

• Mount Bromo – Weather permitting, the sunrise over Mount Bromo and its neighbors will be one of the best you’ve ever seen

• Mount Ijen – And sunrise at Mount Ijen will be one for the books, too. It’s another early morning, but well worth it. Expect the hike to be steep and challenging.

If you haven’t already, you can read more about these iconic Java volcanoes here .

How to Travel Through East Java

There are many tour companies online that offer this itinerary to Bali, but not all are reputable. We booked with Discover Your Indonesia and had a great experience. We spent USD 580 for two people and it included our driver, entrance fees, guides, hotels, ferry to Bali, and drive from Bali ferry terminal to our hotel.

I recommend having a guide for both Bromo and Ijen Volcanos, as well as the waterfall. The routes can be tricky and Ijen and the waterfall, in particular, pose some risks that make having a guide the safest option. It is possible to visit Mount Bromo without a guide , however.

Book Other Surabaya Tours:

Days 14-16: Bali (Nusa Dua)

In my Indonesia itinerary, I’ve only included a few days in Bali as a relaxation stop before heading to the Komodo National Park and surrounding islands.

That said, if you have more than 3 weeks for your itinerary in Indonesia, you can easily spend weeks in Bali staying in different areas. This itinerary from Bon Traveler is a great resource if you will be spending a few weeks in Bali. Additionally, I highly recommend my collaboration post with Worldering Around on the best places to stay throughout the island.

Located in southeastern Bali, Nusa Dua is known for its idyllic beaches and swanky resorts. Soft white sandy shores extend the length of the peninsula, and the warm ocean waters are perfectly inviting. There are a handful of restaurants and shops around, but mostly it’s the kind of place where you stay on the beach and unwind. With limited nightlife, it’s a relaxing and quiet area to stay. Since it is very spread out, Nusa Dua is not great for walking around, further encouraging you to just stay put at your resort.

Nusa Dua is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination, thanks to the many luxury resorts dotted along the beach. Given that most of the accommodations are high-end, expect to spend a little bit more when shopping or dining in this area.

Nusa Dua is only about a half-hour drive from Denpasar Airport. However, if you’re looking for someplace centrally located in Bali to easily access all of the main attractions from one base, Nusa Dua is not a good option.

Instead, Nusa Dua is where you should go to unwind and stay in one place for a few days, especially if you are traveling as part of a couple and want a romantic getaway.

Where to Stay in Nusa Dua

We redeemed Hilton Honors points to stay at the Conrad Bali luxury resort. There are several on-site restaurants and bars offering breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, cocktail hour, and dinner. Additionally, there are multiple pool options, including an adult-only pool by the spa. Guests have access to the indoor thermal pools and saunas, and the spa offers a myriad of massage options, including traditional Balinese treatments. Rooms are priced from $400/night.

>>> Click here to book the hotel we stayed at in Nusa Dua on Bali Island!

Things to do in Bali from Nusa Dua

With a short time in Bali, you can still check out some of the highlights. We hired a driver for about $40 (not including entrance fees and lunch, which in total were about $20 more total throughout the day) from baligoldentour.com for a one-day tour from Nusa Dua and were able to see and visit the following:

• Barong and Rangda dance performance (one of Bali’s UNESCO-designated dances)

• Batuan Hindu temple

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces (note that these are not the UNESCO-designated ones. These are on the side of the highway and very crowded. If I could do it again I would have gone to Jutiluwih Terraces a bit further away).

• Mount Batur volcano views
• Luwak coffee plantation (Luwak coffee is Bali’s notorious “poop coffee” that is made from coffee beans digested by the Luwak cat. Our verdict – tastes like normal coffee).

• Uluwatu Temple and Kecek Fire Dancing (another of Bali’s UNESCO-designated dances)

Book a Bali Tour:

Day 17: Labuan Bajo

From Bali, fly to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. This is a decent town to spend a few days in, with some day trips into the countryside villages available for those who want to explore. The main draw, however, is its proximity to Komodo National Park.

>>> Click here to search for hotels in Labuan Bajo

Days 18-20: Komodo National Park

While you can do day trips into the park from Labuan Bajo, I highly recommend doing a 3-day liveaboard tour.

Several tour operators offer similar itineraries with a range of accommodation levels. We booked with Discover Your Indonesia again since they were reliable for our Java tour and had a fantastic time. Highlights of a trip through Komodo National Park include:

• Padar Island views
• Rinca Island and seeing Komodo Dragons
• Flying foxes at sunset
• Snorkeling among sea turtles, rays, and vibrant coral

>>> Click here to read more about our experience on a liveaboard boat trip in the Komodo Islands

Book More Komodo Island Tours:

Day 21: Depart

After returning to Labuan Bajo, catch your flight to your next destination!

Even with three weeks in Indonesia, you just scratch the surface of everything this country offers to travelers. We loved it, and if you follow this 3 week Indonesia itinerary for your first trip, I think you will too. We’re already planning our return to explore even more of the many islands!

Have you been to Indonesia? Where else would you recommend travelers add to their itinerary for a 3 week Indonesia trip? Tell me in the comments or feel free to contact me !

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The Best 2 Weeks Java Backpacking Itinerary (+tips for 7-10 days)

I silently sigh every time someone tells me they’re going to Indonesia, but it turns out they’re only staying in Bali. Indonesia has over 17000 different islands and backpacking in Java is just pure awesomeness!

This is the only Java backpacking itinerary you will ever need to see . I’ve compiled everything I know about backpacking in Java, all my travel tips and tricks about the best places to visit on the island from Jakarta to Bali.

Let’s dive in!

Java Quick Facts

In Java, you will find megapolises with shiny malls, ancient temples with dusty tas reliefs, growling volcanoes with awesome sunrises, terrific waterfalls with icy sprays, authentic little villages, cultural hubs, spicy food, weird chicken-shaped temples and so much more!

• 128,297 km² (roughly the size of Greece)
• 1064 km length
• 152 million people (~53% of the total in Indonesia)
• 45 volcanoes (3 included in the guide)
• Hundreds of waterfalls (3+ included)
• Hundreds of ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples (25+ included)
• 5 UNESCO sites (4 included)

Java Backpacking Itinerary at a glance

The following examples itineraries on Java all assume you land in Jakarta and want to reach Bali overland.

Everything in this guide and the itineraries is perfectly reversible: You can start in Bali and finish in Jakarta (or Yogyakarta).

• Day 1: Jakarta;
• Day 2-3: Yogyakarta, Borobudur & Prambanan;
• Day 4 : Malang;
• Day 5: Tumpak Sewu;
• Day 6: Bromo and Madakaripura;
• Day 7: Kawah Ijen;
• Ferry to Bali .
• Day 2: Bandung ;
• Day 3-4: Yogyakarta, Borobudur & Prambanan;
• Day 5: Surakarta ;
• Day 6: Malang;
• Day 7: Tumpak Sewu;
• Day 8: Surabaya ;
• Day 9: Bromo and Madakaripura;
• Day 10: Kawah Ijen;
• Day 2- 3 : Bandung, Tangkuban Perahu ;
• Day 4- 6 : Yogyakarta, Borobudur & Prambanan, Goa Jomblang ;
• Day 7: Dieng Plateau ;
• Day 8: Semarang ;
• Day 9: Surakarta;
• Day 10 : Malang;
• Day 11: Tumpak Sewu;
• Day 12 : Surabaya
• Day 13: Bromo and Madakaripura;
• Day 14: Kawah Ijen;

All of the places of interest and attractions are added to this interactive map:

This guide follows the 14-day Java Backpacking Itinerary but offers jump links if you only have 1 week or 10 days .

You can also spend more days in some places and skip others. For example, you can skip Surabaya and stay around Mt. Bromo an extra day or skip Semarang to stay 1 more day in Yogyakarta or Dieng Plateau .

Day 1: Jakarta

Chances are, you’re either landing in Jakarta or flying out of it. The Big Durian is not just big, it’s humongous. Jakarta is projected to become the world’s biggest city by 2030 .

Somehow it’s not what it’s most popular for. Come now, when I say Jakarta, you say traffic. Jakarta = traffic .

I once spent 4 hours on a bus from the airport to the city center (40 km). It’s horrible. Yes, other big cities in Java suffer from the same problem, but in Jakarta, it’s become ridiculous.

A running joke is that the best thing to do in Jakarta is to leave as fast as possible.

That’s why I give Jakarta only 1 day in my Java backpacking itinerary. If you have spare time, some of the notable places of interest are:

• The National Monument ( Monas ) and Merdeka Square ;
• National Museum of Indonesia ;
• Kota Tua (Old Batavia) : The Old Town and a proposed UNESCO site;
• Menteng Flea Market ;
• Istiqlal Mosque : Biggest in Indonesia and Southeast Asia , 6th biggest in the world;
• Taman Anggrek Mall: The biggest mall in Indonesia;
• Ancol Beach ;

To continue the 7-day itinerary . Take an overnight train to Yogyakarta .

Luxury trains depart from Gambir Station .

Cheaper trains depart from Pasar Senen .

Learn more about the trains from Jakarta to Yogyakarta

To continue the 10 or 14 days itinerary .

Take a morning train to Bandung from Gambir Station .

Days 2-3: Bandung

Traveling from Jakarta to Bandung you will gain 700 meters altitude. Bandung is situated high and as a result the regional climate there is cooler.

Bandung is nicknamed the Paris of Java because of its beauty and fashion industry.

Surrounded by tea plantations and volcanic landscapes, the area around Bandung offers breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventures. In the city itself, you can find fashion boutiques, indie cafes, and hipster hangouts.

First day in Bandung

Taman hutan raya, lembang floating market, jalan braga.

• Gedung Sate (optional)

Upon arrival from Jakarta, take a moment to have lunch somewhere around Pasar Baru (5 min from Bandung Station) or try some Indonesian fried snacks from a street vendor.

Drop off your backpack in your hostel ( I recommend Tokyo Cubo ) and take the Green or Orange Angkot ( Angkots are the minibuses that serve as Bandung’s public transport. Their routes are on Google Maps ) all the way to Taman Hutan Raya , a large conservation area park with a botanical garden.

I walked through the park to Lembang ( about 10 km but very pleasant ) to the Lembang Floating Market . Just make sure you arrive before 17:00 because the market closes at 18:00.

The Lembang Floating Market should be a charming experience where traditional market culture meets a unique twist. Unfortunately, I found it tacky and overly touristic. Everything was set up in a way that resembled an open-air amusement park. Around the floating market are a lot of activities that are more suited to the younger audience.

Moreover, every activity charges an entrance fee and the whole area also charges for an entrance ticket (35.000 IDR). Suffice it to say, it’s not the most authentic experience, but to each his own. I expected something like the Cai Rang Floating Market in South Vietnam but received a Luna Park.

To return to Bandung take the creamy gray Angkot from Terminal Lembang or a Grab taxi.

In Kota Bandung, you really should have a walk down Jalan Braga , a historic and vibrant avenue known for its colonial-era architecture, shops, cafes, and art spaces.

Gedung Sate

If you have extra time, take an hour to visit Gedung Sate – an iconic government building featuring Dutch colonial architecture and a museum showcasing local history.

To continue the 10-day itinerary .

At the end of your second day in Bandung, take an overnight train to Yogyakarta.

There are many trains every day (and late evening) departing from both Bandung and Kiaracondong stations bound for both Yogyakarta Tugu and Lempuyangan stations of Jogja.

Second Day in Bandung

There are many options for activities in and around Bandung on day 2, but the most impressive one is the active volcano Tangkuban Perahu . If you missed Lembang Floating Market, you can stop by as it’s on the way.

Tangkuban Perahu

Tangkuban Perahu is a stratovolcano known for its unique upside-down, boat-shaped crater. You can explore its smoking vents and enjoy panoramic vistas

Hot springs and lush greenery add to the enchantment of this natural wonder.

To reach it by public transport, take the same creamy gray Angkot from yesterday towards Lembang. Then take another one towards Cikole. Get off at the entrance to Tangkuban Perahu and continue on foot.

The volcano is only 30 km from Bandung, so if you want a faster and more convenient transport option, just get a Grab taxi.

The entrance fee to Tangkuban Perahu is 200.000 IDR / 13$ (weekday) or 300.000 / 20$ (weekend) for foreigners. It’s expensive and you will see a trend in Indonesia how attractions cost 10 times what the locals pay. It is what it is.

Shopping in Bandung

Bandung is famous for its affordable shopping and developed fashion industry. It presents itself as a cheaper alternative to shopping in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur for international tourists.

Some of the shopping streets you can check out in the afternoon after you return from Tangkuban Perahu are:

• Jalan Riau (Riau Street): Known as the “Fashion Street” of Bandung, Jalan Riau is lined with numerous factory outlets and boutiques offering a wide range of clothing, shoes, and accessories;
• Jalan Dago (Dago Street): This street is home to a mix of shopping options, including factory outlets, cafes, and local shops;
• Jalan Setiabudi (Setiabudi Street): Another hub for factory outlets and shopping centers, Jalan Setiabudi offers a variety of fashion and sportswear brands;
• Jalan Cihampelas (Cihampelas Street): Also known as “Jeans Street,” Jalan Cihampelas is famous for its denim-focused shops, as well as modern shopping malls and unique street markets.

Other things to do in Bandung (if you have more time)

• Kawah Putih: A stunning white crater lake located south of Bandung with a surreal landscape;
• Saung Angklung Udjo: Experience traditional Sundanese culture through music and performances involving the angklung bamboo instrument;
• Explore Trans Studio Bandung: One of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, offering a variety of exciting rides and entertainment;
• Ciwidey Valley: Enjoy picturesque landscapes, strawberry picking, and the thrill of off-road adventures;
• Bandung Geology Museum: Learn about the Earth’s geological history and the natural wonders of Indonesia through various exhibits;
• Bosscha Observatory: The oldest observatory in Indonesia, allowing you to observe celestial wonders through powerful telescopes;
• Rabbit Town: A quirky spot with various rabbit-themed attractions, ideal for families and animal lovers;
• Maribaya Waterfall: Enjoy the natural beauty of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery and cool mountain air.

At the end of your stay in Bandung, take an overnight train to Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java.

There are many trains every day departing from both Bandung and Kiaracondong stations bound for both Yogyakarta Tugu and Lempuyangan stations of Jogja.

Day 4-6: Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, or Jogja, is the real deal when it comes to Javanese culture, ancient architecture, wonderful cuisine, and authentic experiences. It is a definite stop in any Java itinerary.

Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta is one of only two special regions in Indonesia ( the other one being the ultra-conservative Muslim Aceh ) and the only place in the archipelago still ruled by a monarch – in this case the Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X .

In September 2023, Yogyakarta became Indonesia’s newest UNESCO heritage site!

The cosmological axis of Yogyakarta , an imaginary line running from Mount Merapi, through the Sultan’s Palace, all the way to the South Seas, was awarded the recognition at a meeting of UNESCO in Saudi Arabia.

You can walk the axis starting at Tugu Monument, down by Malioboro, the north alun-alun, through the Kraton, the south alun-alun, leave the walled city, and walk all the way to the south gate Panggung Krapyak.

Then on a day trip, you can visit Parangtritis Beach where the axis ends and in the evening go on a Lava Tour to the Merapi Volcano at the axis beginning.

I called Yogyakarta home on and off for 6 months in 2023 and it’s my favorite city in Java!

First day in Yogyakarta

Prawirotaman.

• The Kraton ( Sultan’s Palace )
• Taman Sari ( Water Castle )

Alun-alun Kidul

Read my recommendations about authentic things to do in Yogyakarta , including detailed information about the places in this guide.

Assuming you’re arriving in the morning with the overnight train from Bandung, you’re probably a bit tired. Take it easy!

Drop off your bags in one of the cool garden-style hostels or guesthouses around Prawirotaman ( the so-called “bule (foreigner) area “).

I recommend Arjuna Garden Homestay .

Take a walk around Prawirotaman and enjoy the cool street art. Go into the smaller streets to appreciate the quaint character of Jogja.

Kraton Yogyakarta

Kraton Yogyakarta, the royal palace of the Sultan, embodies Javanese culture and history. Ornate architecture, courtyards, and cultural artifacts depict its significance as a living heritage site.

It preserves traditions through performances and ceremonies you can witness daily.

Even though the Sultan lives there, chances are you won’t get to see him. Even locals who live right next to the Kraton tell me that they’ve never seen him in person! Odd, isn’t it?

Taman Sari, Yogyakarta’s water palace, melds beauty and history. Built in the 18th century, it boasts pools, gardens, and unique architecture. Serving as a retreat for the Sultan, it holds stories of leisure and romance.

Taman Sari is walking distance away from the Kraton ( well, it was where the first Sultans kept their concubines after all ) so it’s logical to combine them.

In the evening go to Yogyakarta’s main artery – Jalan Maliboro.

Malioboro is lined with shops, stalls, and street vendors. It is an iconic destination in Yogyakarta for its lively spirit and diverse offerings.

Malioboro comes alive every evening with musicians, dancers, and street performers entertaining tourists and locals alike.

On your way back to Prawirotaman, stop at the south public square, also known as Alun-alun with “kidul” meaning south. Just call it “ Alkid ” if you want to be cool.

You can’t miss it – look for the two giant Masagin trees in the middle of an empty slot of 110m. x 110m. land, surrounded by street food stalls and neon pedaled cars called odong-odong .

Close your every facing the middle of the trees, rotate in one place 4-5 times, then try to walk in the middle of the trees in what’s called the Masagin Challenge . Shall you succeed, great things await you.

Don’t forget to try some of the amazing Indonesian street food snacks on the over 100 stalls around the alun-alun.

After dinner, look for some of these Indonesian desserts to cater to your sweet tooth!

Second day in Yogyakarta

• Borobudur Temple
• Prambanan Temple

Chicken Church (Gereja Ayam)

• Smaller ancient temples

Your second day in Yogyakarta is what I call the Ancient Heritage Experience. Today you visit the 2 UNESCO heritage sites around Yogyakarta that make it such a popular destination – Borobudur and Prambanan .

I have this in-depth guide on how to visit Borobudur and Prambanan in 1 day , including how to reach Borobudur by direct bus from Terminal Jombor.

Alternatively, check out this one about sunrise at Borobudur and this one about sunset at Prambanan .

You should also read about the amazing Ramayana Ballet with shows every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Borobudur Buddhist Temple

You can find up-to-date information about how to reach Borobudur and watch the sunrise in the linked article.

Borobudur, Indonesia’s ancient marvel, stands as a colossal Buddhist temple ( the biggest in the world actually ). Constructed in the 9th century, it showcases intricate carvings and tiered stupas, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.

Very near Borobudur is this bizarre temple in the shape of a chicken. Well, no, actually it’s a dove, except for the fact it doesn’t look like a dove at all! But oh my, oh my, what a funky story there is behind this oddity .

Prambanan Hindu Temple

Prambanan, an architectural masterpiece in Indonesia, showcases intricate Hindu craftsmanship.

Also dating back to the 9th century ( exemplifying the religious syncretism of the Majapahit Empire ), it’s a complex of towering temples adorned with intricate carvings depicting epic narratives.

You can reach Prambanan by bus 1A/K3J from Malioboro. Here you can find detailed information about how to get from Yogyakarta to Prambanan .

Other Ancient Temples to visit around Yogyakarta

Since Prambanan and Borobudur are so famous, many think they are the only ones. On the contrary – there are over 20 smaller Buddhist and Hindu temples spread around Yogyakarta.

Some of the best ones are:

• Mendut (close to Borobudur);
• Pawon (close to Borobudur);
• Sewu (close to Prambanan);
• Plaosan (close to Prambanan).

To continue the 7-day itinerary .

Take an overnight train to Malang .

Trains depart from Yogyakarta Tugu Station .

Take a train to Surakarta .

Commuter trains depart from Yogyakarta Tugu Station about every hour.

Check this out if you want to travel from Yogyakarta directly to Bali .

Third day in Yogyakarta

On your third day in Yogyakarta, it’s time for some adventures!

While there are many cool places to visit around Jogja , I don’t think anyone can argue with me if I say that Goa Jomblang Cave should be at the top of the list.

Goa Jomblang

Goa Jomblang, a natural wonder about 50 km southeast of Kota Yogyakarta, offers an otherworldly experience. It’s a vertical cave with a “heaven’s light” phenomenon. You rappel down the cave to witness its ethereal beauty.

While getting to Goa Jomblang independently is not impossible ( just take a bus from Terminal Giwangan towards Wonosari, then take a Grab taxi to the cave ), organizing a tour of it could be tricky without booking beforehand.

I recommend this day tour from Yogyakarta which combines Goa Jomblang with Timang Beach.

Kampung Hunting back in Jogja

One thing I love about Jogja and is rarely talked about is the kampungs.

Kampungs are Indonesian neighborhoods, characterized by small winding alleys, beautifully decorated walls, and tightly-knit communities, and are the place to visit to see how the locals really live.

You can see my favorite Kampungs in Jogja in my list of things to do in Yogyakarta .

Other things to do in Yogyakarta (if you have more time)

• Hike up to Merapi Volcano or do a Merapi Lava Safari tour with a jeep ;
• Watch traditional Javanese performances like the Prambanan Ramayana Ballet
• Shop for Batik , a traditional Indonesian textile;
• Visit Fort Vredeburg Museum and learn about the Indonesian struggle for independence;
• Visit Sonobudoyo Museum to learn more about culture and art in Java;
• Visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum ( in Kaliurang, the village closest to Merapi );
• Explore the Affandi Museum for contemporary art;
• Take a cycling tour around rural villages ;
• Explore the underground river at Goa Pindul ;
• Visit the occult Royal Cemetery at Imogiri or the even older Royal Cemetery at Kota Gede ;
• Go to the beaches in the south. The most famous beach is Pantai Parangtritis .
• Check out my article about experiences in Yogyakarta for more.

Day 7: Dieng Plateau

I have an in-depth guide about Dieng Plateau , including how to get there from Yogyakarta , where to sleep, and what to see and eat on a 1-day trip there.

Dieng is a volcanic plateau with a multi-colored lake, ancient Hindu temples ( the oldest on Java! ), and a pretty cool sunrise ( when there aren’t too many tourists and it isn’t too misty ).

It’s often overlooked by those backpacking in Java but is totally worth it. My 7 and 10 days itineraries don’t include it only because of the lack of time coupled with Dieng’s remote location. Dieng Plateau is exciting and awesome!

The top things to see and do at Dieng Plateau are:

• Sikunir Hill : Watch the sunrise over the whole plateau and Mount Sundoro with the clouds under your feet;
• Sikidang Crater : Witness the geothermal activity at this bubbling mud crater, surrounded by hissing steam vents and vibrant mineral deposits;
• Arjuna Temple Complex : Explore a collection of ancient Hindu temples with intricate carvings, showcasing Dieng’s historical and cultural significance;
• Colorful Lakes : Marvel at the vivid hues of Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon , two stunning lakes colored by mineral deposits that change with the light;
• Eat Carica : the local jelly-like dessert made with baby papayas.

Day 8: Semarang

To reach Semarang from Dieng Plateau, take a local minibus to Wonosobo, then transfer to an intercity bus at Terminal Mendolo going directly to Semarang.

Its Dutch colonial past is reflected in the architecture of the Old Town area (Kota Lama), while vibrant markets and local cuisine showcase its cultural richness.

The iconic blend of youthful energy and historical charm is evident in attractions like Lawang Sewu , a grand colonial-era building, and the Sam Poo Kong temple complex .

Venture a little further and you will be rewarded with the highest pagoda in Java – Avalokitesvara .

Check out my extensive list of things to do in Semarang .

Some of the best things to do in Semarang are:

• Lawang Sewu : Explore this iconic Dutch colonial building, known for its fascinating history and impressive architecture;
• Sam Poo Kong Temple : Visit the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity;
• Old Town (Kota Lama) : Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, filled with colonial-era buildings, museums, and cafes;
• Semarang Night Market (Warung Semawis) : Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling night market, offering street food, crafts, and entertainment;
• Great Mosque of Central Java : Visit this grand mosque, admired for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. It’s the biggest mosque in Central Java!;
• Tay Kak Sie Temple : Explore this colorful Chinese temple, known for its intricate decorations and peaceful surroundings;
• Yayasan Buddhagaya : A temple complex with the elegant, 7-tiered pagoda Avalokitesvara, a dozen Buddhist temples in a green, statue-filled garden.
• Marina Beach : Relax at this urban beach, offering beautiful views, seafood stalls, and a leisurely escape by the sea.

Day 9: Surakarta

Reach Surakarta from Semarang by a 2-hour early morning train from Semarang Tawang Station . It’s also connected to Yogyakarta with hourly commuter trains.

Surakarta is Yogyakarta’s smaller sister. It used to be a Sunanate ( something like a Sultanate, but using a different word ) with a special status which it lost because it wasn’t careful with its communists ( I’m not joking, look it up ).

Surakarta, commonly referred to as Solo, is a fun city anyhow. It stands out for its profound Javanese heritage, offering a tapestry of traditional batik craftsmanship, captivating classical court arts, and enchanting Gamelan melodies.

At the heart of Solo lies the impressive Kraton palace , a testament to its regal history. The city’s dynamic markets bustle with life, showcasing an array of local products from batik to pottery.

One exciting thing about Surakarta is that it’s where remnants of the first humans on Java were found. What is now called Solo Man is evidence of the prehistoric life on Java. It is also a UNESCO heritage site.

You should really check out my list of top things to do in Surakarta and pick the ones you most like. Here’s my selection:

• Kraton Surakarta : Explore the royal palace, Kraton Surakarta, to discover Javanese architecture, history, and culture;
• Museum Sangiran and the Sangiran Early Man Site : A UNESCO heritage site evidence of the first people on Java. It’s a wonderful museum and a fascinating deep-dive into pre-historic times;
• Wayang Orang Theatre : Witness the mesmerizing moves of the Javanese theater for under 1$ by going to Sriwedari Wayang Orang Dance Theatre and experiencing this intrinsic part of Javanese culture;
• Pasar Klewer Market : Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pasar Klewer, a bustling market famous for its batik textiles;
• Laweyan Batik Village : Wander through Laweyan, an old batik village where you can witness the traditional production of batik textiles;
• Ngarsopuro Night Market : Go to Solo on the weekend to try some of the local food at the night market. I recommend the serabi pancakes !

At the end of your stay in Surakarta ( Solo for train booking purposes ), take a train towards Malang. Trains depart from both Balapan and Jebres stations in Surakarta, bound for both Malang and Malang Kota Lama stations.

Day 10: Malang

Malang is somewhat cooler than the hot Javanese lowlands. It is nicknamed Kota Dingin ( Cold City ).

Probably the most famous place in Malang is surprisingly the colorful kampungs in the center of the city, namely Warna Warni , KWJ , and Tridi , as well as the azure blue kampung Biru Arema on the other side of the bridge.

I love getting lost in a kampung and this thing about Malang really does it for me!

If you’re a fan of urban things to do, then just walking around the city will leave you content.

Watch out for Alun-alun Malang and the Malang Jami Grand Mosque , the Flower and Bird markets ( Pasar Bunga and Pasar Burung ) as well as the Brawijaya Museum , for some history into the Independence struggle.

If you like ancient temples and nature more, pay a visit to the 13th-century Hindu temple Singosari on the outskirts of town and the Coban Rondo Waterfall , only about 30 km from Malang.

Some of the other notable things to do in Malang include:

• Explore Batu Night Spectacular: An amusement park offering a variety of rides, games, and a vibrant night market.
• Discover Jatim Park: A family-friendly attraction featuring a zoo, a dinosaur museum, and various educational exhibits.
• Experience Coban Talun: Another scenic waterfall with opportunities for trekking and adventure activities.
• Sample local cuisine: Try traditional dishes like rawon , rujak cingur , and bakso Malang at local eateries.
• Experience the Apple Plantations: Visit apple orchards in the Batu area, where you can pick your own apples and enjoy fresh produce. This is a good one .
• Learn about Transport at Museum Angkut: Explore a collection of vintage vehicles and gain insights into Indonesia’s transportation history.
• Discover Malang’s Coffee Culture: Enjoy a cup of locally produced coffee in one of the city’s cozy cafes while immersing yourself in its laid-back atmosphere. I recommend Treum Coffee .
• Explore Kidal Temple: Yet another Hindu Temple, but just as exciting as the others!;
• Shop at Pasar Apung: A floating market where you can buy fresh produce and local products from traditional boats.
• Explore the Sumberawan Temple: You can combine this one with Singosari as they’re close. Sumerawan is a Buddhist temple though;
• Experience the Tretes Highlands: Escape the city heat and enjoy cooler temperatures, lush landscapes, and panoramic views in this hill resort area. It’s a bit out of town, so only go if you have extra time.

Day 11: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Visiting Tumpak Sewu is most convenient from Malang, the closest city to it. Your options to travel from Malang to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall are:

• Organized tour : It’s what most people do and is the easiest, but costly. I recommend this combination tour of Bromo Sunrise with Tumpak Sewu .
• Personal guide : Also expensive, but convenient. A motorcycle driver will set you back 400.000 IDR / 26$ two-way, whereas a car will be up to 700.000 IDR / 46$;
• Rent a motorcycle: That would be my choice. A motorcycle for a day costs ~100.000 IDR / 6.6$, fuel is super cheap (10.000 IDR per liter, 1 liter lasts about 40 km) and it gives you total freedom. Travel time between Malang and Tumpak Sewu is 2 hours;
• Public Transport : This option is a bit tricky as buses are infrequent and only depart once full. Take the bus from Terminal Bayangan Gadang and get off within walking distance of Tumpak Sewu. Note that getting back to Malang by public bus might not be possible!

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Tumpak Sewu is best done as a day trip from Malang.

Tumpak Sewu, meaning “ Thousand Waterfalls ” in Javanese is an enchanting natural wonder. With its awe-inspiring tiered structure, it resembles a curtain of water flowing gracefully down lush, towering cliffs and is often compared to Niagara Falls.

Don’t skip it when backpacking in Java!

To reach the waterfall you have to do a short but thrilling trek through verdant landscapes, crossing rivers and forests.

After a 20-minute walk from the entrance, you reach the viewpoint to see   all of Tumpak Sewu from above. The view from this observation deck is truly a remarkable sight!

From the top, follow the trail down to the base of the waterfall. You will feel a bit like Tarzan with all the ropes and bamboo ladders in the midst of the jungle.

DO NOT WEAR FLIP-FLOPS THAT DAY!

The trek down isn’t dangerous, but you must be careful. If you’re not physically fit, it might be a good idea to enjoy Tumpak Sewu from above.

Otherwise, take your time trekking down, and beware of the slippery stones!

The entrance fee is 20.000 IDR / 1.3$.

Goa Tetes cave and waterfall

In the same locale as Tumpak Sewu there are many other smaller waterfalls and caves. The most picturesque and well-known is Goa Tetes.

Goa Tetes is a captivating underground cave system. Its unique allure lies in the mesmerizing stalactite and stalagmite formations, illuminated by soft lighting.

As for Goa Tetes Waterfall: you can’t miss it as it’s right next to Tumpak Sewu.

The entrance fee is 10.000 IDR / 0.7$.

Back to Malang or stay in Pronojiwo

If you’re on an organized tour, you won’t really have to worry about this part of the journey.

You basically have two options: go back to Malang or don’t. If you’re renting a motorcycle, you should go back to return it. If you’re with a private driver, he will take you back to Malang, but if you’re using public transport, it might be wise to sleep in Pronojiwo, the town next to Tumpak Sewu.

Check out your accommodation options for Pronojiwo here .

Even if you stay in Pronojiwo, getting to Mount Bromo is easiest from Malang, through Probolinggo.

There might be local buses from Pronojiwo to Probolinggo, but as I’ve never taken this route, I can’t confirm or recommend it. From Malang:

Do a Bromo tour directly from Malang or take a bus to Probolinggo and travel independently to Madakaripura Waterfall and Bromo.

Here is detailed information about a cheap self-organized Bromo tour .

Take a bus or train to Surabaya .

Buses depart around the clock from Terminal Arjosari .

There is one daily train at 12:30 departing from Malang Station bound for both Surabaya Gubeng and Pasar Turi stations.

Day 12: Surabaya

Surabaya is the second biggest city in Indonesia, the capital of East Java province, and much like Jakarta is entirely skippable on a Java backpacking itinerary.

“ Why is it here then, eh, why do you tell me to visit Surabaya and then tell me to skip it? ”

Well, you see, I’d like to cover all my bases and give you options! There are still cool things to visit in Surabaya, it’s just that if you don’t have the time, you might decide to go around it. Both ways lead to an awesome Java backpacking trip!

So let me tell you about Surabaya then. The SharkCrocodile city ( because Sura=shark and Baya=crocodile in Javanese ) is a bustling metropolis with a rich history.

The city’s maritime heritage is evident in its vibrant port and historic sites like the Heroes Monument which commemorates Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

Skyscrapers, markets, and cultural hubs intermingle, showcasing a diverse culinary scene, traditional markets, and contemporary malls.

If you want to visit something really unique, go to Surabaya’s House of Sampoerna – a historic cigarette factory turned museum where you can observe workers roll a minimum of 325 cigarettes per hour !

Some of the best things to do in Surabaya include:

• Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) : Pay homage to Indonesia’s independence fighters at this iconic landmark.
• Ampel Mosque : A historic mosque, an important pilgrimage site, and one of the first mosques in Java. Surrounded by an Arab-themed souq market.
• Surabaya Zoo : Enjoy a day with diverse animal species and lush greenery in one of Indonesia’s oldest zoos.
• Cheng Hoo Mosque : How often do you see Chinese-style mosques? Well, this one definitely showcases Surabaya’s multicultural harmony.
• Red Bridge (Jembatan Merah) : Stroll along this charming red bridge that spans the Kali Mas River, capturing picturesque views.
• Suroboyo Carnival Night Market : Experience lively night markets, complete with rides, games, and local street food.
• Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam) : Tour a real submarine turned museum, offering insights into Indonesia’s naval history.
• Tunjungan Plaza : Indulge in shopping at one of Indonesia’s largest malls, offering a mix of local and international brands.
• Mirota Batik : Shop for intricate batik textiles, a traditional Indonesian art form, at this renowned store.
• Siola Building : Get a panoramic view of the city from the observation deck of this modern building.
• Alun-Alun Surabaya : Unwind in this city square surrounded by historical landmarks and bustling street food stalls.

At the end of your stay in Surabaya, either book an organized tour of Bromo or travel independently to Probolinggo.

Read the linked blog post for a self-organized budget tour of Bromo and this one for how to visit Madakaripura waterfall .

Day 13: Bromo and Madakaripura

Ladies and gentlemen, the attractions you’ve all been waiting for: Gunung Bromo and Air Terjun Madakaripura !

No Java itinerary is truly complete without these two. Actually, no trip to Indonesia is really full until you visit Mount Bromo volcano. It is the most visited place in all of Indonesia!

Bromo Volcano

Bromo is shrowded in mysticism and often literally in clouds. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park hosts in total of 21 active and dormant volcanoes including the highest point in Java – Mount Semeru.

Around Bromo is the otherworldly Sea of Sand . Trips most often start with a pre-dawn trek to one of the viewpoints or the Bromo crater itself to witness sunrise over the dramatic terrain ( I prefer the latter to avoid the crowds at the popular viewpoints ).

You can visit Bromo independently and take advantage of the secret entrance to avoid the exorbitant entrance fee.

All details, including transportation, where to sleep, how to clandestinely get in, and where to watch the sunrise over Bromo are explained in the linked article.

Madakaripura Waterfall

Madakaripura is a hidden waterfall on the way to Bromo. As most people go on organized tours that rush you to the viewpoints, and then quickly bring you back to Surabaya or Malang, a lot of visitors miss out on the wonderful Madakaripura.

The waterfall is enveloped by lush vegetation and towering cliffs presenting a majestic sight as water cascades down from a height of over 200 meters. Madakaripura is the highest waterfall in Java and the second highest in Indonesia!

This sacred waterfall holds cultural significance, linked to the legend of Gajah Mada, an ancient Javanese warrior.

The journey to Madakaripura involves a scenic hike through verdant canyons and refreshing streams. You wade through shallow waters and pass through rocky passages to reach the waterfall’s sanctuary.

And believe me when I tell you – oh you will get wet, very, very wet !

Here’s how to visit Madakaripura and all the current information about the waterfall.

Travel from Probolinggo to Banyuwangi

These last few days of the Java backpacking Itinerary seem quite rushed. I somewhat agree. But there are just many variables, especially traveling between places, train timings, adjusting for sunrise, opening times, etc.

That’s why I advise you to be flexible with your Java itinerary and use the information here as a rough guide.

For example, you will be in Cemoro Lawang right after sunrise on Mount Bromo. You want to go back to Probolinggo and take the train towards Banyuwangi, then do a sunrise tour to Kawah Ijen. So depending on how tired you are, you might need an extra day in Banyuwangi just to recover and make the timing work.

There are daily trains from Probolinggo to Banyuwangi at 00:39, 01:57, 08:01, 16:01, and 19:17. All of them taking roughly 4 hours, with the cheapest being the Probowangi train at 08:01.

Day 14: Kawah Ijen

Your last stop on Java is on its eastern tip close to the otherwise uneventful town of Banyuwangi. There stands Kawah Ijen , a mesmerizing volcanic wonder, known for its ethereal blue flames and the world’s largest acidic lake .

This geological marvel is famous for its unique phenomenon of burning sulfuric gases, creating an otherworldly scene at night. The hike up usually starts in the dark hours before dawn and takes around 90 minutes to reach the crater.

It recently extended its opening hours and now is open from 2:00. This means it’s once again possible to see the blue fire. You can read all about Kawah Ijen here .

Sunrise at Kawah Ijen is also outstanding. It reveals breathtaking views of the acidic lake against a backdrop of rugged landscapes.

Ferry to Bali

A natural continuation of this Java backpacking itinerary is to continue onward to Bali. Make your way to the port of Ketapang ( buses, taxis, and even the train connect it to Banyuwangi ) and take the ferry over to Gilimanuk in Bali.

The ferries run every 30 minutes and cost 6500 IDR (0.45$).

From Gilimanuk, there are regular shuttles, tourist buses, and minibuses to Lovina or Denpasar .

Read my honest (maybe not that honest given this guide) comparison between Bali and Java .

Transport on Java

You will notice I recommend traveling by train a lot more often than by bus in this Java backpacking itinerary. Train travel on Java is easy, convenient, cheap, relatively quick, and in most sections very scenic – all characteristics that the bus journeys don’t have.

In this article about the train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta , you can find more information about Java trains.

Almost all trains running on Java can be found on the KAI Access website . It is not the most user-friendly website, but it does the job. I say almost all because certain local commuter trains ( for example Yogyakarta to Surakarta ) aren’t listed there.

You can book and pay for the tickets online at the KAI Access website. At the train station, all you need to do is use the number or QR code from the reservation to print your ticket at the self-service kiosks. There is always staff there to help if you get confused.

Other Notable Places not Included

Java is quite big. Of course, backpacking in Java for 14 days is not enough to cover every single amazing place. Here’s a short list of the most notable I’ve not included in the itinerary. From west to east:

• Ujung Kulon National Park : The fourth UNESCO heritage site on Java that I haven’t included in this itinerary because it’s a bit off-path as it’s on the extreme western tip of the island;
• Old Banten: Discover the remnants of the historic port city of Banten, including the mighty Banten Lama Fortress and Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin’s tomb.
• Cirebon: A coastal city with a mix of Javanese and Sundanese culture, featuring the Kasepuhan Palace and Sunyaragi Cave;
• Pangandaran : a coastal paradise on Java’s southern shore. Pristine beaches, lush landscapes, vibrant sunsets, surfing opportunities, what more do you need?;
• Mount Merbabu: A dormant volcano known for its scenic trekking routes and panoramic views; Awesome sunrise. Hiking starts in the village of Selo;
• Karimunjawa Islands: A tropical paradise off the north coast of Java, offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Reach it by ferry from Jepara (1h from Semarang);
• Mount Semeru : Java’s highest peak, an active stratovolcano exuding majestic beauty. Trekkers brave its challenging trails for breathtaking views, unique ecosystems, and the awe-inspiring Bromo-Semeru caldera;
• Savana Bekol: Part of Alas Purwo National Park (extreme east tip of Java), it features savannah landscapes and wild animals;

This Java Itinerary is FOR YOU!

There’s so much more information I can include here. Please excuse me if I didn’t entirely answer your questions about backpacking in Java.

I tried to create an evergreen resource for all backpackers coming to the wonderful country of Indonesia and its main island of Java.

If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out via the comments below, my Instagram , or Facebook . Now off you go!

You will also like:

• Dieng Plateau, Java: The Full Guide for 2024!
• 17 Best Things to Do in Surakarta (Solo), The Lost Sunanate
• How to visit Borobudur and Prambanan in 1 day by public transport
• Borobudur Guide for 2024: How to climb up and watch the sunrise
• 20 Mystical Temples in Yogyakarta and Useful Info!
• 3 Days in Yogyakarta – Itinerary Tailored by a Local (2024)
• Imogiri Royal Cemetery: The Occult Tombs of Java’s Nobility

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Indonesia Travel Guide: The Ultimate Itinerary to Bali, Java & Flores

Indonesia, an immense country existing out of 17.000+ islands. A 3-week Indonesia route shows you the stunning diversity of this country. Waterfalls , volcanoes, stunning beaches, architecture, cultures, and delicious food. Feel welcomed by the open-minded Indonesian people. These are the highlights you should see on a 3-week Indonesia trip.

A 3-week Indonesia Travel Guide

This 3-week itinerary through Indonesia is a day-by-day route taking you to the highlights of East Java , Bali , and Flores. Feel free to add more days if you have the time, and note that each day includes a link to a detailed article about that location.

Day 1 – 2: Yogyakarta, Java

The hippest city of Java, Yogyakarta, is a great start to your route through Indonesia. Visit Indonesia’s largest Hindu complex, Prambanan, the underground mosque, and Borobudur. Yogyakarta has an international airport and is connected to many transit airports like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore . Discover all the best things to do in Yogyakarta here .

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

The guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta are available in all kinds of price ranges. Hostels go anywhere from 5 USD – 30 USD per night. Where guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta will start from 12 USD a night, including breakfast.

Hotels in Yogyakarta 😴

Day 3: Train to Malang

Take the early morning express train from Yogyakarta to Malang. It is an 8-hour comfortable train ride that takes you on a scenic route along with small villages & vast rice fields. The express train to Malang is the best way to travel between these cities.

More about: Train from Yogyakarta to Malang

Day 4 – 5: Malang, Java

The higher located city of Malang has a much more comfortable climate. Malang is one of the more surprising locations on your Indonesia route due to its beautiful waterfalls like Coban Putri, Coban Rondo, and Tumpak Sewu , green tea plantations, and the rainbow city Jodipan in Malang , which is a former slum area painted to attract visitors.

About Malang: Things to do in Malang

Where to Stay in Malang

Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. But the only place we really can recommend to everyone is Griyo Sultan Agung Guest House. The train station is a 3-minute walk away, and the colored village is just 5 minutes.

Hotels in Malang 😴

Day 6: Bromo, Java

Start day 6 with an incredible sunrise over the active Bromo Volcano . Now, don’t forget to bring something warm because it will be freezing cold before sunrise. Luckily, this is the only cold place on your Indonesia route.

To get there, you could either leave Malang in the afternoon of day 5 and stay in Bromo village or get out back at midnight on day 6 and drive from Malang. Bromo hotel recommendation:  Pagupon Hotel

Must Read: Bromo and IJen tour

Day 7: Ijen Crater, Java

Visit the Ijen crater in the middle of the night to see the ‘blue fire’ and the sunrise over the aqua blue crater lake. The hike to the top is pretty steep, which makes it quite challenging; however, the view on the crater makes it up to you!

Read more about: Ijen Crater tour

It’s time to follow your Indonesia route to the island of gods; Bali! From the Ijen crater, it is 30 minutes to the harbor where the ferry is waiting for you. Once in Bali, it takes 3 hours to reach Canggu.

Day 8 – 10: Seminyak or Canggu

Seminyak and Canggu are two fantastic towns popular for its surfing, beach clubs, and an incredible choice of restaurants. Take a day to relax and recover because you just did two sunrise mornings on Java. The beach, a coconut, delicious food, and the nearby rice fields will make sure you recover well.

Read: Things to do in Seminyak or Canggu Guide

Where to Stay in Canggu and Seminyak

For Canggu, the most central places are Batu Bolong and Berawa, where there are loads of great cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs close by, as well as great surf spots.

Hotels in Canggu 😴

In Seminyak, stay around Jalan Kayu Aya, also known as ‘Eat Street’, for its great variety of restaurants. This street is also just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Hotels in Seminyak 😴

Day 11 – 14: Ubud, Bali

Next up is the art village Ubud. The area is popular because of the surrounding rice fields, waterfalls, yoga retreats, and Ubud Art Market. Both Tegalalang rice fields and the Monkey Forest in Ubud are things you have to see on your Bali Route .

See: Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Where to Stay in Ubud

Stay in the center of Ubud, where you are close to all the main tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. If you are looking for something a little more rural, there are some great accommodation options close to the rice terraces.

Hotels in Ubud 😴

Day 15 – 16: Nusa Penida, Bali

Incredible white sandy beaches and 200-meter high cliff drops; Nusa Penida is one of the most stunning places on your route through Indonesia. Visit the T-Rex head Kelingking and hike down to one of Bali’s most beautiful beaches: Diamond Beach . Nusa Penida is stunning!

Arrange a taxi + boat transfer from Ubud. It takes about two to three hours to reach Penida Island. On your last night, make your way back to Kuta, Bali, and spend the night near the airport. Book a return flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo tomorrow you are heading to Komodo National Park .

Read: Nusa Penida Trip

Where to Stay on Nusa Penida

The accommodations on Nusa Penida vary from homestays and guesthouses to beautiful bungalows. You can stay anywhere on the island as it only takes an hour to cross from one side to the other.

Hotels in Nusa Penida 😴

Day 17: Labuan Bajo, Flores

Labuan Bajo is a little port town on Flores island. It is the entrance to UNESCO labeled Komodo National Park , home of the Komodo Dragon. Labuan Bajo itself has not much to offer so use it as a stopover before you head on a boat into the park. The flight to Labuan Bajo from Bali only takes 45 minutes.

Things to do Komodo Islands

Where to Stay in Labuan Bajo

There are lots of things to do in Labuan Bajo, so aim to spend at least one night here if you can. It’s a small town, and you are able to walk around in 30 minutes, which means most accommodation options will locate you close to all the main bars and cafes. Alternatively, choose one of the relaxing beach resorts which are a bit further out of the center.

Hotels in Labuan Bajo 😴

Day 18 – 20: Komodo Islands, the highlight of your route through Indonesia

Close-off your 3 weeks in Indonesia with the best part; a 3-day boat trip in Komodo National Park. The park is world-famous for diving and snorkeling where you can expect to see manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, small sharks, and millions of colorful fish. The hiking paths are mind-blowing and don’t forget about the pink beaches, yes pink!

Komodo Islands trip

Day 21: Back to Bali – Fly out

Fly back to Bali and spend your last day along the Bali coastline. We recommend you to spend this time either in Canggu or Uluwatu .

Canggu hotel recommendation: Calmtree Bungalows

Getting around Indonesia

The islands in this Indonesia Route, Bali, Java, and Komodo National Park, are all well connected. Travel easily with a backpack or suitcase via trains, planes, or car. In populated areas, you can also use transport services like Go-Jek.

You can easily arrange transport from your current location in Indonesia. However, we recommend booking your flights in advance.

Java & Bali Transport

Contact our friend Yande below if you are looking for car transport and make sure to tell him you found him through our Salt in our Hair.

When to visit Indonesia

May until October are the best months to visit Indonesia. There is a year-round temperature of 28°C, and although the wet season is between October & April, it can feel a lot warmer. The wet season is not as bad as it sounds. It is a daily heavy and short rainfall, some days cloudy but some days beautiful weather.

How much does Indonesia cost?

Your budget for a 3-week Indonesia route depends on where you stay and eat. A stay at a guesthouse ranges from 6 – 35 USD a night, depending on the popularity of your location. This is similar for eating; Indonesian food ranges from 1 – 3 USD per meal, whereas Western food can go anywhere from 3 – 15 USD per meal.

Costs of Traveling in Indonesia

Travel on a budget in Indonesia, from $220 − $290 USD weekly per person, mid-range $400 − $590 USD, and high-end from $570 − $850 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $15 USD Book public transport
• Food: $10 − $15 USD
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

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Jodipan: Colorful Rainbow Village in Malang, Java

11 best things to do in yogyakarta, bali travel guide: the ultimate 3-week itinerary.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

This is a great blog post, thanks for putting it together!

We are planning to go to Indonesia between 1st and 18th of June, where we want to visit Malang, Yogyakarta, Ubud, Gilli Air and The Komodo Island. This will be a an active holiday, where we will be moving every few days.

Can I ask you what is the best travel route between Malang -> Ubud ->Gilli Air -> Komodo -> Back to Bali Airport?

I have been researching this and all the travel options seem very complicated, especially between the islands.

Any thoughts are welcomed!

Thanks in advance!

Hi Bogdan! So exciting you’re planning to travel Indonesia. In terms of the best route, the one you have set out works very well. From Malang you can decide whether you want to see Mt. Bromo and/or the Ijen Crater and then hop on a train/bus + ferry (or travel with a a private driver ) to get to Bali. From Ubud, you can travel to Amed or Padangbai to boat to Gili Air. The Gili islands, as well as Lombok both offer tours throughout the Komodo Islands, which typically end in Labuan Bajo. From there, you can easily fly back to Bali. Hope that helps!

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5 Days East Java Itinerary (Visit Java from Bali)

People come to Bali in masses seeking enlightenment and witness everything the island of the gods has to offer. However, being only a 40 minutes ferry ride from Bali, Java is a place like no others. From walking alongside the rim of Mount Bromo’s crater to exploring the countless waterfalls, make sure to experience its grandiose landscapes. This 5 days East Java itinerary will guide you through the main highlights you have to see.

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East Java is so easily accessible from the North of Bali. It could be the perfect week-long adventurous getaway from your Bali vacation. The planning is only a suggestion. We actually did this itinerary in 7 days as we like to travel slowly and take our time!

Day 1 – Ferry/train + Rainbow city & Blue city

Day 2 – mount bromo, day 3 – tumpak sewu waterfall + kuneer hill plantation, day 4 – train back to banyuwangi, day 5 – blue fire at mount ijen.

Firstly, The ferry from Bali to Java leaves from Gilimanuk and arrives in Banyuwangi. It operates 24 hours a day every day of the week and sails every 20 minutes for the cost of 6,500 Indonesian Rupiah (IRP) which equals to 0,45 USD.

Once in Banyuwangi, the train station is only a couple of minute’s walk – station Banyuwangi Baru (BW). The train to Malang costs 62,000 IRP (4,30 USD) and leaves once a day at 5:00 a.m. every day of the week. It arrives in Malang (ML) at 12:35 p.m., giving you the rest of the day to visit the Rainbow Village!

Jodipan village & Arema village

Jodipan’s Village (Rainbow Village) and Arema (Blue Village) are both walking distance from the train station. For a small entrance fee, you can spend hours walking around the colorful alleys. They are separated by a bridge, and very hard to miss!

Up until quite recently, the Jodipan’s village used to be considered a slum on the verge of collapse. The place seemed to be beyond savings when a group of students decided to change things around. They came up with the incredible idea of coloring the entire city in different colors. The students partnered up with a paint distributor and with the help of the army and a couple of local artists, gave a fresh coat of paint to the entire area.

The walls of the villages now adorn creative murals, where colorful animals meet Disney characters. You can spend hours getting lost in the narrow alleys and socializing with the locals, who all seem genuinely happy to see support from tourists.

All in all, this initiative has completely changed the village’s image and quality of life. The incredible changes Jodipan has seen is a reason on its own to go visit the place and encourage them.

Sunrise from King Kong Hill

Mount Bromo is definitely a sight to see when visiting the island of Java. The way to get to the mountain itself may be long and uncomfortable, but it’ll all be worth it. We suggest you keep a full day for the Bromo Sunrise Tour as you will start at 1:00 a.m and finish at around 12:00 p.m. You deserve a nap after that!

The guided tour to get to the mountain begins late at night. It allows enough time to arrive at the right spot in order to see the magnificent sunrise that awaits.

The starry night sky slowly becomes filled with orange light. The clouds retreat from the mountains, presenting you one of the most beautiful sunrises of your life.

Walk around the edge of the crater

You will then drive to the base of Mount Bromo where you can climb the stairs all the way to the top, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime look into a smoking volcano crater.

You can also walk around the rim if you’re feeling bold! The view from the top is very impressive, and the desert surrounding it seems otherworldly.

Tumpak Sewu

Tumpak Sewu is also known as the Niagara Falls of Indonesia! You will first head to the viewpoint where you are greeted with the most spectacular waterfall view of your life. The Semeru volcano is guarding over the falls while a rainbow appears out of this gigantic wall of water.

Getting to the base of the waterfalls isn’t the easiest task, but the trekking itself is extremely beautiful. You will climb down a massive mountainside full of vegetation and smaller waterfalls. Once at the bottom of the mountain, you are immediately met with a Jurassic park like biome.

The feeling of walking to the base of this waterfall with water raining on you is one that every traveler should feel at least once. We even included it in our Top 10 Travel Bucketlist. There are other waterfalls and natural pools on the way back up and the path is a totally new and exciting adventure. We think it’s a must to add on any East Java itinerary!

Kuneer Hill tea plantation

The next stop is the tea plantation of Kuneer Hill! It is located fully on the other side of Malang and the drive is about 4 hours (don’t listen to Google Maps). We did both on the same day but were short on time. If you have time, it might be better to go the next day.

You can literally spend hours getting lost and taking in the panoramic view of the plantation. We decided to walk to the top of the hill, but you can also buy a ticket where they drive you up there.

The best way to get to these places is probably to rent a taxi for the day. You could rent a scooter but the road was pretty steep on the way to Tumpak Sewu, and it takes about 3 hours to get there from Malang. We had an awesome experience with our friend Azhar ! Contact him by WhatsApp at (+62 813-3604-2045).

The train back to Banyuwangi only leaves once a day, at 4:00 p.m. and arrives at 11:50 p.m. You can enjoy one last morning in Malang to take it easy and walk around. Head to the Blue Village if you didn’t get the chance to visit it yet.

Once you get to Banyuwangi, make sure your hotel knows you are coming on the train. They can usually arrange for pickup, as it is pretty late at night. After your arrival, you can either, go straight to climb Mount Ijen which starts at 1:00 am. (if you’re short in time). However, you can also take a full day of rest and do it the next day. You should modify this East Java Itinerary to your schedule, and spend more time if you can!

The ‘Blue Fire’ of mount Ijen is a rare sight and the fact you are exploring this alien-like terrain at night makes it even more special. You will need to be dressed warmly and equipped with a gas mask for the sulphuric gas.

After 1.5 to 2 hours of trekking up, you will start descending in the crater where the hike is steeper, and the air heavier. If you’re lucky and all the conditions are right you will be able to see the blue flame. Not everyone gets to see it, and your guide won’t be able to guarantee you will. We got lucky when we went, as they told us they didn’t see it the day before.

The miners you meet along the way trek the same mountain as you every day, sometimes twice a day to extract and carry the sulfur. They each bring back about 88 pounds of sulfur on every trip. They are doing such hard-work and the compensation they receive for it is not even close to cover for their work. It is common to stop by, talk to them, and give them a few dollars or a chocolate bar. They will be happy to rest for a couple of minutes and take a picture with you. That will make their day better, and in return your day as well.

Sunrise at Kawah Ijen Crater

During the hike back up the crater and while the sun is rising, you’ll see the turquoise sulphuric lake, clashing on the yellowish sulfur mountain surrounded by thick white smoke. The views are simply out of this world. We hope that one day the locals could stop doing this inhumane work and people will come to Kawah Ljen for the views only.

The Ijen tour ends at around 11:00 am, ending this East Java itinerary perfectly. You’ll make in time to take the train back to station Banyuwangi Baru (BW) and hop on a ferry back to Bali.

We hope this East Java Itinerary will be useful to you. This Island has so many destinations that are still not flooded with tourists. Being around 8 times bigger than the island of Bali, there is so much to see and you might end up spending much more than a week discovering the area!

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The Best of Java in 7 days: Java To Bali Trip Itinerary

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Java to Bali trip itinerary

After seeing Yogyakarta, many travellers visit Mount Bromo, an active volcano in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. However, fewer include a stop at Ijen and even fewer travellers visit the Sewu waterfalls in the east of Java.

That’s a big shame. The Ijen volcano is one of the most spectacular sights to visit in Indonesia and the Sewu waterfall are famed as the most beautiful waterfall in all of Indonesia.

A reason not so many travellers include the Ijen and Sewu waterfall in their trip itinerary is that it can be overwhelming to plan a trip with all these stops.

And that’s exactly what you are going to find out in this post. We have done the research for you, which means you can just follow our guide on how to get from Java to Bali and see the best of Java along the way.

With all these highlights, this trip is for many travellers the most enjoyable part of their entire trip to Indonesia!

The destinations we will cover are:

Destination #1: Yogyakarta

As the heart of Javanese culture, we think there’s no better place to begin your journey than Yogyakarta.

Also fondly known as Yogya or Jogja, this vibrant city is the only one in Indonesia still ruled by a monarch — a Sultan to be specific. That alone is a testament to how much Yogya values its history and culture.

How to get to Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta has its own international airport, but not a lot of countries have direct flights to Jogja. If you’re coming from outside Indonesia, your most probable entry point is Jakarta.

From the capital, you can you can take the train for 6-9 hours, a flight for 3 hours (including transfers), and the bus for 10.5-16 hours. Fares start at 175,000 IDR ($11).

See here a more detailed description of the route from Jakarta to Yogyakarta .

Destination #2: Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo boasts of a view that is out of this world. Sitting on the Tengger caldera with its top blown off and its crater continuously smoking with white sulphur — it’s a lunar landscape that will take your breath away, especially at sunrise.

No wonder it is one of the most hiked volcanoes in Indonesia. Another reason why it’s so popular is that it’s quite relatively accessible with less than 1-hour hiking.

PRO TIP: It can get really chilly on your way up as you wait for the sun to rise. Temperatures can get as low as 5°C. It’s best to wear a sweater and jacket that can protect you from the cold and the wind, but nothing too thick for innerwear — It gets really hot as soon as the sun is up! Don’t have a warm jacket with you? No problem, it’s easy to rent a jacket for just a couple of dollars as soon as you get out of the jeep.

How to get to Mount Bromo

It all depends on where your base camp is! The basecamps you can choose from when visiting Mount Bromo are: Malang, Surabaya, Probolinggo and Cemoro Lawang. We’ve written a more detailed guide about which Bromo basecamp to choose.

For the purpose of this itinerary, we will focus on Malang because it is also the most accessible gateway point when visiting the next destination, which is Sewu Waterfalls. To get from Yogyakarta to Malang, you can take an 8-hour train for 114,000 IDR ($7) or a 6-hour bus for 300,000 IDR ($18.50).

From Malang, you can arrange a private jeep through your hotel to get you to the foot of Mount Bromo. Alternatively, you can book a Bromo sunrise tour with Klook . Rates start from 620,000 IDR ($38).

PRO TIP: In this Java to Bali itinerary, we describe the DIY version to visit Bromo, Sewu and Ijen, but in all honesty, it requires quite a bit of planning. To travel with more ease, you can also book one of the tour packages described in this post about how to visit mount Bromo .

Destination #3: Sewu Waterfalls

Sewu Waterfalls are most commonly known as Tumpak Sewu, which means “a thousand waterfalls”. Not that there are really a thousand waterfalls here, but it surely looks like that when you look at its majesty!

From the entrance of the park, your first stop will be the Tumpak Sewu viewpoint. That’s just a 10-minute walk. From here, you can get a view of Sewu Waterfalls in all its glory. Backdropped by the highest mountain in Java, Mount Semeru, it’s truly a sight to behold.

POR TIP: For a more magical experience, get here early in the morning, even before sunrise. The fog adds a dreamy element that makes for some of the best photos of this multi-tiered waterfall.

From the viewpoint, you can reach the bottom via a 30 to 40-minute walk. The trail is pretty safe, but definitely requires some courage and upper-body strength. You’ll be passing by bamboo ladders, slippery rocks, and makeshift bridges. Definitely wear sandals or trekking shoes. Flip-flops are a no-go.

You can’t really swim at the basin, and you won’t have to — the power and strength of the waterfalls around you will be enough to make you feel rejuvenated.

For its grandness, Sewu Waterfalls is still a relatively unknown destination. If you are already making your way from Java to Bali, we really think you shouldn’t miss the chance to see what we think is the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia.

How to get to Sewu waterfall?

From Malang, it’s about a 2-hour drive to get to Tumbak Sewu. we described it in more detail in our post about how to visit the Sewu waterfalls .

Destination #4: Mount Ijen

Ijen Volcano, or Kawah Ijen, is one of Java’s most unique destinations because it houses the world’s largest acidic volcanic lake. Its crater glows a beautiful turquoise emitting electric blue flames. These flames are especially beautiful at night.

It’s best to arrive at the crater a few hours before dawn. And just when you think the magic show is over, the sun slowly rises and displays the most enthralling backdrop to Ijen Lake.

Note that you will need a gas mask as you near the crater because the high level of sulfur can be toxic (and smelly). Don’t worry if you don’t have one. Gas masks are available for rent for around 50,000 IDR ($3.10) and are mostly included in the tour.

Apart from being a tourist destination, Kawah Ijen is also a fully commercial volcano. You’ll see locals hard at work at the crater, collecting sulphur deposits and bringing them down the mountain. Some try to sell small sculpted rocks to visitors, which is a great way for the miners to earn a little extra.

How to get to Mount Ijen

The most common base camp to Mount Ijen is Banyuwangi, Java’s easternmost town. If you visited Sewu before going to Ijen, we recommend taking the southern train route and taking the train from Jember station to Banyuwangi .

If you stayed in any of the other basecamps and didn’t visit Sewu before continuing to Bromo, you can find the exact route details for the northern route to Banyuwangi in this route guide from Bromo to Ijen .

Destination #5: Bali

Bali is an island paradise with a compelling mix of nature and culture. It is a constant item on many travellers’ bucket lists for the famous Balinese culture, sandy beaches, rice terraces and age-old temples.

It has a laidback vibe, also making it a go-to destination for surfers and digital nomads. The beach towns on the west coast of Bali like Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu are the most tourist destinations but if you want to visit the best beaches of Bali, you have to visit the south.

There is the famed art heritage of Ubud, miles of rolling paddy fields, hidden waterfalls and volcanoes to hike. Bali is also a great base to explore the many offshore islands such as Nusa Penida or a side trip to neighbour island Lombok.

How to get to Bali

From Banyuwangi, you can get to Bali by ferry, and then continue to your destination by taxi or bus.

The ferry to Bali leaves from Ketapang station to which you can either take a taxi, or a train from Karangasem Station in the city centre. A ticket costs around 43,000 IDR ($2.70) and travel time is 20 minutes. From Ketapang station, the harbour is just 10 minutes away on foot.

Next, take a ferry from Ketapang Harbour to Gilimanuk Harbour on Bali Island’s western coast. Ferries are available 24 hours and a ticket costs 10,000 IDR ($0.60) for the 45-minute journey.

TIP: Relax and unwind at Sumberkima Hill Retreat

Once you arrive in Bali, you can take a bus or taxi to the island’s most popular destinations like Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, or Uluwatu. We’ll discuss these options below, but first, we want to introduce a new idea: take a few days to rest at Sumberkima Hill Retreat.

The itinerary we shared above will likely be one of the highlights of your trip to Indonesia, as you’ll visit some of Java’s most incredible places in less than a week. This includes several sunrise tours, but also plus 8-hour journeys to reach your next destination.

Experience True Peace at Sumberkima Village

Now imagine yourself relaxing by a gorgeous swimming pool, taking in views of Mount Ijen (and possibly Bromo on a clear day) after this intense trip. That’s exactly what you can do at Sumberkima Hill Retreat .

Forget about busy traffic or street vendors at every corner; Sumberkima is a quiet little village located on Bali’s northwest coast, just a 30-minute drive from the harbour where boats from Java arrive. It’s a relatively new destination for travellers to Bali, and that’s what makes it so unique.

There are not many accommodations, but if you choose to stay here, we highly recommend booking two or three nights at Sumberkima Hill retreat. They offer bungalows for very reasonable prices. Prices range from 800,000 IDR ($49) per room for 2 person bungalow, up to 4,500,000 IDR ($280) for a 6-person villa. All bungalows and villas are amazing in their own way, and no matter which room you book, you’ll always have access to all their common facilities.

This includes transportation via an electric golf cart to their stunning swimming pools or on-site restaurants. The pools are truly spectacular, and on a clear day, you can see the sun setting behind the Ijen volcano. They also offer several nearby activities, like visiting a stunning white sand beach strip , snorkelling tours, or hiking the Sumberkima Hills.

The best part is that you won’t need to leave the retreat at all, as they offer everything you need — including room service. For me and my family, this was the perfect way to rest for a few days after our East Java itinerary, and I highly recommend this stay to anyone.

How to get to Sumberkima?

When arriving from Java, all boats dock at Gilimanuk, which is just a 30 to 40-minute drive to Sumberkima Hill Retreat. You can easily find a taxi at the harbour for around 0 IDR ($0), or arrange a pickup with Sumberkima Hill Retreat directly.

How to continue your trip through Bali from Sumberkima

After our stay at Sumberkima, we booked a private driver who took us to the Jatiluwih rice terraces, with a stop at the stunning Munduk waterfalls en route. Munduk is a picturesque valley in northern Bali, home to some of the island’s most impressive waterfalls.

A 2-3 hour trek allows you to visit four waterfalls, making it an ideal stop on the way to Jatiluwih. Additionally, there’s a fantastic eco-restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious lunch while admiring the jungle views.

After the trek, our driver, Putu, drove us to Jatiluwih where we arrived at night. Waking up the day after in this guesthouse , with a view on never-ending views of lush, rolling rice paddies, was just a dream (TIP: Book first floor).

Interested in making the same trip? Our driver, Putu, is truly exceptional. His extensive knowledge of Bali’s history made the day fly by and provided an excellent introduction to Bali’s culture following our Java visit. You can reach out to him you can contact him here via Whatsapp .

From Gilimanuk to other destinations in Bali

Gilimanuk Port is located all the way in northwest of Bali. From here, it’s still a 3-hour drive to Canggu, 3.5-hour to Ubud and more than 4.5-hour drive to Uluwatu.

If you are heading to any of these destinations, you can choose between taking a taxi directly to your destination or taking the bus to Denpasar or Mengiwi.

If you have the budget for it, it’s possible to take a taxi from Gilimanuk Terminal all the way to your Bali destination. Expect to pay close to 1,000,000 IDR ($62) for popular destinations like Canggu, Seminyak or Ubud.

By Bus to Denpasar

From the port, Gilimanuk Bus Terminal is a just 10-minute walk. Here, you can take a bus going to Terminal Ubung in Denpasar. Tickets cost 50,000 IDR ($3.10) for the 3.5 to 4.5-hour bus ride.

You can then take a taxi from Terminal Ubung to your hotel in Bali. Expect to pay around 70,000 IDR ($4.30) – 100,000 IDR ($6.20) to Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu.

Bus schedule from Gilimanuk to Denpasar

By bus to mengwi.

There are also buses from Gilimanuk to Mengwi Bus Terminal , which is more or less between Ubud and Canggu. A ticket costs around 65,000 IDR ($4) for the 3-hour bus ride. However, the last time we checked (March 2023), we couldn’t confirm the bus schedule for this route.

From Mengwi, you can book a Grab taxi to Ubud for around 50,000 IDR ($3.10), Canggu 80,000 IDR ($4.90) or Kuta for around 145,000 IDR ($9). The drive to Canggu and Ubud will take about 30-45 minutes and about 1 hour to Kuta.

Alternatively, you can pre-book the Perama Tour bus from Mengwi to Kuta with rates from 120,000 IDR ($7.40) on 12Go.Asia .

PRO TIP: Heading to northern Bali? From Gilimanuk, there is a direct bus service to Singaraja in North Bali. This passes through the main beach resort area of Lovina. Fares are from 45,000 IDR ($2.80) and it takes about 1.5 hours.

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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Excelente información,yo viajo con amigos de bali a yoyakarta por tierra en 2 días mas 1 día para yoyakarta serías tan amable de indicarme donde debería parar para descanzar.Queremos conocer Monte Bromo,Ijen,pueblos de colores,Málagan y si queda algún templo en el camino.Desde ya muchas gracias Ana

Hi Ana, thanks for your comment. It sounds like I’m talking to a very ambitious traveler here! Unfortunately, I have to share that 2D1N is a bit too ambitious tho! Also, both Bromo and Ijen are best visited at night so I would really recommend spending at least 2 nights in east Java.

That’s why I would also recommend following the itinerary explained in this post, and visiting the Sewu waterfalls as an extra stop. It will require careful planning, but it will be two incredible days. You could also look for a driver in Malang who can bring you all the way to an accommodation in Ijen. This can go a bit quicker as you can take a more straightforward route than with the train.

Oh and temples, are not really that common as far as I know in east Java because Islam is the main religion. But don’t worry, in Bali you’ll find plenty, in particular around Ubud.

I know it’s tempting to rush your way to Bali, but taking one extra day for East Java is 100% worth it.

Have an amazing trip!

Spanish: PD: Esta respuesta está escrita en inglés para que sea útil para los viajeros de todo el mundo. Recomiendo usar Google Translate para traducir esta respuesta al español.

Bonjour, votre blog est génial ! petite question : est-il possible de faire Bromo et Tumpak Sewu le meme jour ? je pensais par exemple faire le mont le matin et ensuite prendre la route vers les cascades directement, est ce possible ?

Hello Sofia, it is possible to hike Mt. Bromo and visit Tumpak Sewu on the same day, but we wouldn’t recommend it. The hike to the waterfalls can be quite challenging, especially during the rainy season. You’ll have to rush your visit to Sewu to arrive back at the top before it gets dark.

Consider visiting Tumpak Sewu the next morning to get some rest first. The weather is often better and brighter at this time too.

However, if you’d still like to visit Mt. Bromo and Tumpak Sewu in one day, we suggest departing from Malang. It’s the common base camp and gateway to both destinations.

From Malang, you’ll start your trip to Mt. Bromo at midnight, catch the sunrise, hike to the crater, and be back at your guesthouse around 11:00. After the hike, you can take a little rest and take a 2-hour taxi from Malang to Sewu. You can also take a public bus, but these run less regularly, take longer, and aren’t as comfortable. The bus is not recommended if you want to make it on the same day to Sewu.

Upon arrival in Sewu, you’ll need about 2-3 hours to visit Sewu, which includes the hike and some time to admire the waterfalls. Summing it up, if you arrive back from Bromo at 11:00, need an hour to freshen up, eat and then take the taxi, you would be at Sewu around 14:00. This would be very optimistic, so expect to arrive at Sewu around 15:00. This does still leave you enough time to visit the waterfalls if everything goes well. However, keep in mind that you will have woken up at midnight to visit Bromo and won’t have had a chance to catch up on any sleep yet.

Lastly, if you plan on heading to Iljen after seeing Sewu, you can take a taxi to Klakah Station near Sewu. From here, take the 19:41 train to Banyuwangi near Iljen. If not, you can ask the driver to wait and bring you back to Malang after.

Hope this helps you to plan your trip to Java!

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