Going off the beaten track in Bali’s countryside to feel the magic of ‘The Island of the Gods’

Java, Java Volcanoes
Mount Ijen Morning Trek

On the Ijen Plateau, experience the drama of Ijen, Merapi and Raung volcanoes, which loom large over a skyline that still feels wonderfully wild.
You’ll need to wake up very early to set off on the hike up to the Ijen crater, but the reward really is worth it.
Along the way, you’ll hike through rural villages, coffee and clove plantations and stretches of Javanese rainforest, before reaching the show-stopper at the rim: a vivid turquoise sulphur lake, surrounded by sheer crater walls at 2,883 metres above sea level.
Sunrise is the busiest time to hike – especially as you’re in with a chance of seeing the otherworldly “blue flames” when it’s still dark – but it’s usually less crowded than Mount Bromo.
What you’ll do
- Set your alarm early to hike up Mount Ijen, winding through rainforest, spice groves and villages with your guide
- Trek up to the crater rim as the sun rises to see the vivid turquoise sulphur lake glowing ethereally
- Soak up the epic views of the Ijen Plateau all around you
Mount Ijen on the map
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in Indonesia

Bali
The Spirit of Indonesia
This sample itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors and has been designed to introduce curious travellers to the wonders and contrasts of Indonesia.
You’ll hop across three of its islands: exploring the cultural heartland of Java, delving into the magical countryside of Bali, and ending with a dose of beachside bliss on Lombok.
Highlights
Java
Soak up the sunrise over Borobudur Temple with breakfast, before being the first in the complex
Ubud
Delve into the heart of Balinese culture in the countryside, away from the crowds
West Lombok
Live the dream and relax on the beautiful beaches
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Bali
Sacred Trails & Secluded Bays in Indonesia
A luxury holiday with once-in-a-lifetime experiences in wonderful hotels: from Amanjiwo in Java’s cultural heartland to Capella Ubud and RASCAL Voyages in Komodo National Park.
Highlights
Borobudur
Watch the magnificent Borobudur Temple arise from morning mist
Bali
Delve into the island’s cascading countryside with its spiritual air
Komodo National Park
Spot the legendary Komodo dragons and snorkel with tropical fish and graceful rays
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Borobudur
Java & Sulawesi Adventure
Discover Java’s incredible scenery and history, then head to Sulawesi for a contrasting culture and some of the world’s best marine life.
Highlights
Java
Snaking through jungles and rice fields aboard the train from Yogyakarta to Malang
Sulawesi
Trekking through remote villages to learn about their funeral rituals
Sulawesi Offshore
Swimming in the world’s top marine parks off Sulawesi’s coast
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Borobudur
From Java to Raja Ampat: an Indonesian Extravaganza
A transformative journey through Indonesia’s cultural and scenic spots, ending on a high in ravishing Raja Ampat.
Highlights
Borobudur
Watch the magnificent Borobudur Temple arise from morning mist in the cultural heartland of Java
Indonesian Borneo
Drift through the rivers of Tanjung Puting and see orangutans up close
Raja Ampat
Revel in the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of a pristine pocket of paradise
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Borobudur
Original Adventures in Java & Sumba
Luxury combined with wonder and adventure. Take in some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet.
Highlights
Central Java
Ease into Indonesia at a relaxing retreat amid coffee plantations
Borobudur
Explore the ancient Borobudur Temple and other mysterious temple relics
Sumba Island
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime stay at dreamy Nihi Sumba
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Bali
Journey East across Java & Bali
Journey through Java to Bali, taking in the contrasting cultures and scenery of the exotic neighbouring islands.
Highlights
Borobudur
Watch the magnificent Borobudur Temple arise from morning mist in the cultural heartland of Java
Mount Bromo & Ijen
Experience the drama of these volcanoes the ETG way
Bali
Avoid the overcrowded southern beaches and spend time in the unspoiled West Bali National Park
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Bali
Java, Borneo & Beach: Orangutans, Temples & Castaway Islands
Encounter Borneo’s amazing wildlife, journey through Java’s volcanic landscapes visiting impressive temples, and finish with an idyllic stay on an exclusive tropical island.
Highlights
Kalimantan
Staying in the Borneo rainforest to see orangutans and other wildlife
Java
Exploring the countryside and the magical temples of Indonesia’s cultural heartland
The Karimunjawa Islands
Living the dream at an exclusive, tropical island hideaway
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Bali
Borneo, Java & Bali Adventure
Come face-to-face with the wondrous wildlife of Indonesian Borneo, explore the cultural heartland of Java and relax in Bali’s leafy countryside.
Highlights
Kalimantan
A once-in-a-lifetime experience in Borneo, spotting wildlife from your private houseboat
Java
Soaking up a surreal sunrise over ancient temples and volcanoes
Bali
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Bali
Java & The Lesser Sunda Islands
Discover the heartland of Java, then head east to sail around the wildly beautiful Komodo National Park, before exploring magical Bali and lovely Lombok.
Highlights
Borobudur
Watch the magnificent Borobudur Temple arise from morning mist in the cultural heartland of Java
Bali & Lombok
Be amazed by the distinct flora and fauna found along the ecological boundary of the Wallace Line
Komodo National Park
Spot the legendary Komodo dragons and snorkel with tropical fish and graceful rays
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Borobudur
Classic Java & Beach
Experience the scenery, culture and history of Java before relaxing at your chosen tropical beach paradise.
Highlights
Mount Bromo
Watch the ethereal spectacle of light and shade on this still-active volcano
Borobudur
Explore ancient temples steeped in history, from Borobudur’s intricate carvings to Prambanan’s Hindu artistry
The Karimunjawa Islands
Snorkel coral reefs, relax on powdery beaches and soak up the tranquillity of this island paradise
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