Java & The Lesser Sunda Islands

DAY 1 – DEPART THE UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Java.

DAYS 2-4  BOROBUDUR - JAVA

On arrival in Yogyakarta, you'll be welcomed to Indonesia and taken to your hotel near Borobudur. Here, you’ll have time for post-flight relaxation and to explore the temple, taking in the magnificent scenes at sunset and sunrise.

Constructed during the 8th century, Borobudur was decorated with delicately sculptured reliefs representing the life of Buddha and the Buddhist belief in karma and reincarnation.

Rise early to climb to the top to witness the majestic sunrise over the volcanoes and the forested plateau to the east. After admiring the temple, you can either go back to the hotel for some R&R or spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area.

DAY 5 – YOGYAKARTA (JAVA)

Today, you’ll head back to Yogyakarta, part of the only sultanate remaining in Indonesia. You'll visit the Kraton, the traditional home of the sultan and the royal court, and the two-story mansion retreat known as the Water Palace. In the afternoon, you'll leave the city and visit the magnificent tenth-century Hindu temple, Prambanan and the less-known Plaosan. Stay here 'til sunset to see the temple turn into a striking silhouette as the sky behind turns crimson and lilac and wisps of white clouds float overhead.

DAY 6 & 7 Train to MALANG (JAVA)

Hop on a train and head east through the scenic central mountains towards Jombang, East Java. You'll be accompanied by your tour guide, while your driver can take your luggage to Jombang the night before. He'll then meet you at the train station and take you through the beautiful countryside to Malang via the small plantation villages of Pujon Batu, where you can stop and take in the scenery and explore the villages. You'll stay in a hotel in the heart of the city.

Spend a day exploring the sights of Malang, from its colonial architecture and array of art centres to the botanical gardens and a number of local temples. Malang is refreshingly temperate and surrounded by beautiful countryside.

DAY 8 Mount BROMO (JAVA)

This afternoon, you’ll travel for about an hour from Malang towards your hotel in Mount Bromo. Check in to your new hotel and enjoy a couple of hours R&R before heading towards Bromo for sunset. Most people visit the crater for sunrise, but sunset is atmospheric too, and you can enjoy the experience with fewer crowds. 

Day 9  Mount BROMO (JAVA)

Today, rise early and head to Penanjakan Mountain for spectacular sunrise views across to Bromo and beyond. You'll soak up 360-degree views of  Argopuro Mountain from the eastern side, a group of mountains next to Bromo crater and Semeru Mountain erupting in the background. Feel the breeze of the morning air while waiting for the sunrise, accompanied by some hot coffee and tea. Re-board your jeep before heading back to your hotel for a lazy afternoon.

Day 10-13  The Land of Dragons (Flores & Komodo)

Next, you’ll be driven to Surabaya airport for a short flight east to Labuan Bajo, the gateway to Komodo National Park. Your hotel here lies just a stone's throw away. You could base yourselves in the hotel and take day trips into the national park during your time here. But to get really immersed in the national park, we recommend staying aboard a boat for 2 or 3 nights. There are a number of different boats available, but a typical itinerary would run as follows:

Day 11  Komodo National Park

Set sail and spend the afternoon unwinding on pristine beaches or exploring vibrant coral reefs. Catch sight of playful dolphins as you cruise towards Gili Lawa Laut, known for its deserted beaches and exceptional snorkeling sites.

Day 12  Komodo National Park

Go on an adventure along Komodo Island’s eastern coast, where you’ll witness majestic manta rays migrating southwards. Snorkel among these gentle giants and marvel at their graceful movements. Later, visit the iconic Pink Beach, renowned for its staggering coral walls and diverse marine life.

Day 13 Komodo National Park

Today, prepare for an encounter with the legendary Komodo dragons on Komodo Island. Accompanied by a ranger, set off on an early trek through the park’s wilderness, spotting wild deer and peaceful buffaloes along the way. Witness the awe-inspiring Komodo dragons in their natural habitat before returning to the vessel for a leisurely afternoon sail to Kalong Island. Enjoy sunset cocktails on deck.

Day 14-16 Sideman  (Bali)

Dock back at Labuan Bajo harbour this morning. From here, it’s just a 10-minute transfer to the airport for your 1-hour flight over to Bali.

As soon as your arrive here, your local guide will whisk you straight to the picturesque hills of East Bali, avoiding the crowds and touristy hotspots. You’ll stay in a lovely retreat where you can relax and get a real feel for authentic Balinese life.

You can laze around the resort and enjoy the views, pool and spa or up the tempo by trekking to nearby Pura Bukit, (home to traditional Ikat weavers), cycle through the foothills of Mount Agung, or explore the secluded coast nearby. Whatever activitiy you go for, you’ll be able to admire a remarkably beautiful landscape of rice paddy terraces, volcanic valleys, lush tropical forest and mountain terrain. Bliss.

DAY 17-20 Lombok 

After a leisurely breakfast, hop on a boat to begin your journey east across the Lombok Strait. The trench between Bali and Lombok is part of the ecological boundary known as The Wallace Line. The islands to the west are home to Asiatic animal and plant species, whereas the islands to the east of the invisible line have a marked similarity to species found in Australia. Pretty amazing.

When you arrive, you'll venture across the island to your off-the-beaten-track beach camp on the southern coast of Lombok. There's a beautiful beach here, and activities include trekking in the forest, cycling and snorkelling.

Nearby, Kuta Beach is famed for its gorgeous coastline, clear waters, and excellent surfing spots. Spend the morning catching waves, relaxing on the sandy shores, or heading to Tanjung Aan, a picturesque bay with soft white sands and turquoise waters. Delve into the local culture by exploring traditional villages and sampling local cuisine, or go trekking to discover hidden waterfalls like Benang Stokel or Benang Kelambu amid lush greenery.

DAY 21  FLY HOME

Depart Lombok airport for your flight back to the UK.