From Java to Raja Ampat: an Indonesian Extravaganza

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Yogyakarta in Indonesia (via Singapore).

On arrival in Indonesia, meet your driver, who will whisk you to your hotel, Mesastila. This serene wellness retreat nestled in Central Java's volcanic landscape is a lovely place to relax and acclimatize. Here, unwind amidst coffee plantations and enjoy daily activities like yoga, plantation tours, and spa treatments. Engage with nature and refresh in the cool mountain air.

It’s time to go to your next hotel: a colonial-style hideaway near Borobudur. Visit Borobudur itself, the largest Buddhist monument in the world, with magical views over the temple’s stupas and Mount Merapi. You'll journey through the Javanese countryside, exploring local culture and art. Spend a further two days in Yogyakarta, the heart of Javanese fine arts. Visit the breathtaking Prambanan Temple and explore local art, such as batik workshops. Discover the city by night, strolling markets and enjoying traditional performances and cuisine with your guide.

Travel east aboard the Sancaka Express train to Surabaya, where you’ll check in to a heritage hotel. Delve into Surabaya’s colonial history with a city tour, exploring the House of Sampoerna, the Heroes Monument, and the cultural heart of Chinatown.

Set off from Surabaya on a short flight to Pangkalanbun (Indonesian Borneo) for a three-day river adventure on the Kalimantan Explorer, a traditional Klotok boat. Journey through Tanjung Puting National Park to spot orangutans up close, with opportunities to participate in feeding programs and visit Camp Leakey’s research centre.

Hop back to East Java to explore Mount Bromo’s incredible landscape and witness the magical sunset over the crater. Continue to Tugu Malang, a unique hotel rich in local art, and stay for a further night to explore Malang’s historic charm and flower-filled streets.

Today, you’ll leave Java for North Sulawesi, where you’ll spend 4 nights. Staying in Tomahon, you'll explore the scenic Minahasa Highlands, visiting villages, vibrant markets, and scenic lakes. Experience local Minahasan culture and enjoy panoramic mountain views before going to a beachside eco-resort, perfect for unwinding with access to Bunaken National Marine Park. Dive, snorkel, or relax on the beach, taking in the beautiful underwater landscapes of this world-renowned marine park.

Fly east from Manado to Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat, and check in for a night on land at the Swiss-Belhotel Sorong. Relax and prepare for your epic 10-day cruise exploring the staggering islands, reefs, and marine life of Raja Ampat. The time has come: set sail with SeaTrek Indonesia on a traditional phinisi ship to discover lush forests, serene bays, and thriving coral gardens.

The route and itinerary are flexible around local conditions, but a typical route around Raja Ampat with SeaTrek Indonesia is as follows:

Day 1: Embark and sail south before snorkelling and sitting down to a welcome dinner under the stars.
Day 2: Discover the Misool archipelago’s limestone islets and coral reefs.
Day 3: Swim with stingless jellyfish in a lake and explore caves with ancient paintings.
Day 4: Trek to view the Lesser Birds of Paradise, snorkel more vibrant reefs, and go on a magical sunset sail.
Day 5: Visit Batanta for a jungle hike to waterfalls, village visits, and kayaking.
Day 6: Learn about pearl farming and snorkel among pristine coral reefs.
Day 7: Continue exploring diverse coral reefs and marine life around small, linked islands. Day 8: Snorkel the Fishbowl at Yenuba, then visit Mansuar island to encounter big fish and turtles.
Day 9: Head to Wayag's iconic peaks, which have phenomenal panoramic views, and celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner.

After your once-in-a-lifetime adventure, step back on dry land and catch a flight from Sorong to Jakarta for a final pre-flight night in Indonesia. Explore the city’s bustling energy, or relax at your hotel. It is possible to fly back via Bali but flights from Sorong to Bali are less frequent than those to Jakarta.

Depart Indonesia for your flight back to the UK.