Java & The Lesser Sunda Islands

On arrival in Yogyakarta, you’ll be welcomed to Indonesia by your private driver 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 of a nearby hill to witness the majestic sunrise over the temple, backed by volcanoes and a misty forested plateau to the east. After admiring the monument, you can either go back to the hotel for some R&R or spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area.

Today, your driver will take you 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 lesser-known Plaosan temple. 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.

Next up, 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 revel in the experience with far fewer crowds.

The next day, 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. Hop back in your jeep to head back to your hotel for a lazy afternoon.

Your driver will drop you off at Surabaya airport for your 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 yourself 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:

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.

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.

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 boat for a leisurely afternoon sail to Kalong Island. Come evening, sip sunset cocktails on deck as the sky and sea blaze with colour.

From Labuan Bajo harbour, it’s just a 10-minute drive to the airport for your 1-hour flight over to Bali.

As soon as you 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), cycling through the foothills of Mount Agung, or exploring the secluded coast nearby. Whatever activity 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.

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 to your heart’s content.

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 like Bonjeruk and sampling local cuisine, or go trekking to discover hidden waterfalls like Benang Stokel or Benang Kelambu amid lush greenery.