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Bali & Java:...
 

Bali & Java: Culture & Landscapes of Indonesia

12 days |  15 days with Komodo & Bali extension
12 days |  15 days with Komodo & Bali extension
Group size1222 travelers
Physical activity
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OverviewItineraryDates & pricesReviewsHotels, flights & FAQ
This tour itinerary varies by year
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    An anything-but-ordinary island escape.

    When it comes to exploring Asia, forever favorites like Japan and Thailand are top of mind for many travelers (and for good reason). But those who venture off the beaten path—to Indonesia, in particular—will be handsomely rewarded. This Southeast Asian nation’s islands are as unique as they are scenic, and each offers cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else. On the idyllic island of Bali, explore a rural rice farm and an emerald monkey forest. Tap into your spiritual side during a yoga class, and experience the purifying powers of water. On neighboring Java, watch the sun rise over a pair of towering volcanoes, and take in the grandeur of ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples. If your ideal travel mates are four-legged, feathered, or scaled, extend your visit and explore Komodo, which some have called the “Galapagos of Southeast Asia.”

    Your tour package includes

    • 9 nights in handpicked hotels
    • 9 breakfasts
    • 4 lunches
    • 4 dinners with beer or wine
    • 1 food tasting
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    Included highlights

    • Bali rice farm visit
    • Ubud Monkey Forest
    • Bali yoga class
    • Balinese cooking class
    • Holy Spring Temple water purification ceremony
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    Start planning today

    An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

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    Day-by-day itinerary

    Print itinerary
    Overnight Flight1 night
    Day 1: Travel Day

    Board your overnight flight to Bali today.

    Ubud3 nights
    Day 2: Arrival in Ubud

    Welcome to Indonesia! This evening, settle in to your hotel in Ubud, on the island of Bali.

    Day 3: Rice farm visit, basket-weaving demonstration & Monkey Forest
    Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Welcome lunch

    Meet up with a local guide and get to know Ubud, a peaceful, spiritual town on the island of Bali that’s known for its temples and wealth of cultural traditions. The emerald rice fields and lush jungles that surround Ubud are among Bali’s most famous landscapes.

    • Stroll through the traditional farming village of Subak Guliang and witness daily rituals of rural life unfolding around you
    • Visit a rice farm to learn about the complexities of rice production and the importance of the grain, which Balinese people view as a gift from God and a symbol of life
    • Enjoy a tasting of coconut water, and pick up rice-cooking tips you can practice when you’re home

    Make your way into the rice field and sit down for a scenic welcome lunch. Get to know your fellow travelers and Tour Director as traditional Rindik music—a softly percussive style played on bamboo instruments—hums delicately in the background. Afterward, discover more Balinese traditions.

    • Join a hands-on workshop, during which you’ll prepare your own canang sari—a small offering of gratitude locals prepare daily for Hindu deities
    • With your basket and offering ready, don a sarong and sash and enjoy a walk to the farming village’s temple
    • At the temple, meet one of the village priests, who will bless you and your fellow travelers after you’ve placed your offerings
    • Depart the rice farm and visit Ubud Monkey Forest, a lush forest and temple complex that’s home to more than 700 long-tailed macaques
    Day 4: Morning yoga, cooking class & Elephant Cave Temple
    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Begin the day with a personalized morning yoga class. Then, try your hand at making traditional Balinese dishes during a cooking class taught by an expert chef. Join your fellow travelers and enjoy the lunch you’ve prepared together.

    Later, pay a visit to some of the area’s most unique and important sites.

    • Stop by Goa Gajah, or the Elephant Cave temple—a mysterious Hindu archaeological site just outside of the city whose menacing, carved-stone entrance has been likened to a demon’s mouth
    • Visit the Holy Spring Temple, or Tampak Siring, to learn about water’s symbolic significance to Balinese people and to take part in a water purification ceremony in the temple’s cleansing pool

    Spend a free evening in Ubud or add an excursion.

    Please note: A change of clothes and/or a bathing suit is recommend for the water purification ceremony.

    Balinese Dance Show & Dinner

    From $155 per person

    Yogyakarta Region2 nights
    Day 5: Flight to Yogyakarta & Prambanan temple walk
    Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Today, fly to the island of Java and explore Yogyakarta—the cradle of civilization on the island and one of Indonesia’s foremost cultural centers.

    • Head to the 10th-century Prambanan—a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest temple compound in Indonesia dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva
    • Visit the complex’s main courtyard and view the intricately carved temples and their spires, which illustrate the story of Ramayana—an ancient, Sanskrit epic
    • Hear about restoration work that’s been underway since 1918, including work to clean up destruction from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes

    Enjoy an included dinner this evening served with beer or wine.

    Day 6: Borobudur Temple, Candirejo village & kris-making demonstration
    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Spend the day discovering ancient temple grounds and Javanese culture.

    • Visit Borobudur Temple—the world’s largest monument to Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates to the eighth and ninth centuries
    • View the 70-plus openwork stupas—dome-shaped, Buddhist shrines—that adorn the pyramid’s 10 terraces, which represent the stages one must achieve before attaining Buddhahood
    • Make your way to the countryside village of Candirejo and sit down for an included lunch
    • Enjoy a walk through the peaceful village, which is surrounded by plantations and lush landscapes, as you learn about ancient traditions and daily life
    • Enter a local workshop, where you’ll watch a kris-making demonstration and learn about the ancient Javanese dagger, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

    Bromo Region2 nights
    Day 7: Train ride to the Bromo region
    Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Travel by train this morning to East Java and its Bromo region, home to the volcanic Mount Bromo. Upon arrival in Mojokerto, disembark your train and make your way to your hotel in the Bromo region.

    After settling in at your hotel, join your group for this evening’s included dinner, which is served with beer or wine.

    Day 8: Mount Bromo jeep tour & walk
    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Wake up early this morning and climb aboard a Jeep for a sunrise tour of volcanic Mount Bromo, which is situated within Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. With its spectacular views that include Mount Bromo in the foreground and towering Mount Semeru—Indonesia’s highest volcano—in the background, the park draws nature buffs and sunrise enthusiasts from all around the world.

    • Drive into Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and admire the roughly 300-square-mile park’s dramatic landscapes as the mist slowly lifts
    • Stop at a viewpoint to watch the sun rise over the impressive landscape and to enjoy views of the 12,060-foot-high Mount Semeru
    • Enjoy an included picnic breakfast as you take in the views and history of the park
    • Drive down to the Sea of Sand (or Lautan Pasir, as the local Tenggerese people call it), a vast desert of sand and volcanic ash that surrounds Mount Bromo
    • Walk along the sand to Pura Luhur Poten, a sacred Hindu temple situated at the foot of Mount Bromo—and, if you’d like, ascend 250 stairs to the crater’s rim to peer into the caldera
    • Return to your hotel in the Bromo region and enjoy an included lunch

    This evening, sit down for an included dinner served with beer or wine.

    Nusa Dua2 nights
    Day 9: Flight to Bali
    Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner

    Fly back to Bali this morning, landing in the city of Denpasar. Transfer to your seaside oasis in Nusa Dua, a resort area that’s widely considered Bali’s most luxurious enclave.

    This evening, celebrate your trip—and raise a toast to your Indonesia adventure—during a farewell dinner served with beer or wine.

    Day 10: Free day in Nusa Dua
    Included meal: Breakfast

    Spend a free day in Nusa Dua, or add an excursion.

    Nusa Lembongan Catamaran Cruise & Lunch

    From $169 per person

    Overnight Flight1 night
    Day 11: Departure
    Included meal: Breakfast

    Relax in a day room before departing for the airport for your overnight flight home. Or, continue on to explore the island of Komodo.

    Arrive Home
    Day 12: Travel Day

    Arrive home today.

    Extension to Komodo & Bali
    Calling all animal lovers and nature enthusiasts: The island of Komodo, along with its namesake national park, is home to some of Asia’s most epic landscapes (think pink-sand beaches and craggy, coastal cliffs), not to mention a certain prehistoric-looking lizard with a scary-sounding name. Soak in all the natural splendor, then head back to Bali for a last little dose of R&R.
    Komodo2 nights
    Day 11: Flight to Komodo region
    Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Spend a free morning in Nusa Dua before flying to the island of Flores this afternoon.

    Sit down this evening for an included dinner served with beer or wine.

    Day 12: Komodo National Park
    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Spend the day exploring the volcanic island of Komodo and its UNESCO-listed national park, which spans three major islands—Rinca, Komodo, and Padar—and numerous smaller ones. The park is home to more than 5,500 of the hulking reptiles known as Komodo Dragons.

    • Board a wooden boat on the island of Flores and cruise into Komodo National Park, where you’ll find a blend of rugged hillsides, tropical forests, grassy savannas, and colorful beaches with coral-rich waters
    • Set out on a walk to Banunggulung, a popular site for spotting Komodo Dragons, which exist nowhere else in the world in the wild
    • Learn more about the largest species of lizard as you observe them in their natural habitat—and keep an eye out for other wildlife, like deer and Orange-footed Scrubfowl
    • Climb back on board your boat and enjoy an included lunch as you cruise to Pantai Merah, or Pink Beach, so named because of the broken bits of red coral that make its sand appear pink
    • Enjoy free time to snorkel in the beautiful turquoise waters or relax on the pink sand
    • Cruise to Rinca island, where you’ll trek through the dense forests and savannas to look for some of the island’s 1,300 Komodo Dragons, water buffalo, wild pigs, and a variety of bird species
    Nusa Dua1 night
    Day 13: Flight to Bali
    Included meal: Breakfast

    Return to Bali on a flight this morning, then enjoy free time for the rest of the day in Nusa Dua.

    Overnight Flight1 night
    Day 14: Departure
    Included meal: Breakfast

    Relax in a day room before departing for the airport for your overnight flight home.

    Arrive Home
    Day 15: Travel Day

    Arrive home today.

    Show full itinerary
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    Hotels, flights & FAQ

    Here's the nitty-gritty—where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what to know about your destination before you go.

    Hotels

    We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.
    Komaneka at Rasa Sayang
    Komaneka at Rasa Sayang

    This serene hotel is located in the heart of Ubud. Guests enjoy a private room balcony, infinity pool, and free wood carving and Balinese dance lesson...

    Read more +
    The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta
    The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta

    This luxury hotel is located in the center of Yogyakarta. Guests enjoy the peaceful courtyard, outdoor pool, and spa. Nearby you’ll find the Malioboro...

    Read more +
    Plataran Bromo
    Plataran Bromo

    This elegant hotel is located next to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in the Bromo region. Guests enjoy free bike rentals, the manicured gardens, o...

    Read more +
    Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa
    Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa

    This beachside resort is located on Nusa Dua Beach in Bali. Guests enjoy 3 pools, beach access, and spa. Nearby you’ll find Pasifika Museum and a hand...

    Read more +
    AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach
    AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach

    This glamorous hotel is located on Labuan Bajo on Komodo Island. Guests enjoy private beach access, infinity pool, on-site restaurant, and impressive ...

    Read more +

    Flights

    Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.
    Add our airfare package and you'll get:
    • Round-trip flight for your tour
    • Airport transfers at your destination
    • A great price locked in today
    • 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
    • Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
    • Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
    • Find out more about flights

    FAQ

    Print FAQ
    Passport, visa & entry requirements
    • In order to enter Indonesia, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of return.
    • We recommend having at least three blank passport pages for entry stamps.
    • U.S. and Canadian passport holders must obtain a visa in order to enter Indonesia. You can purchase your visa at the airport upon arrival for $35 using either USD or credit card. Additionally, you can opt to purchase an electronic visa in advance through Indonesia Immigration.
    • If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
    • You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code JAB.
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    Tour pacing & mobility
    • You will walk for about three hours or more daily across flat and hilly terrain, including paved roads and dirt paths, with few stairs. You may need to climb stairs when visiting temples.
    • Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
    • You should feel comfortable managing your own luggage at times, as well as getting in and out of small boats and ferries and onto trains.
    • If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
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    Transportation & arrival information
    • Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Denpasar (on the island of Bali). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
    • Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
    • The tour extension also includes flights between Denpasar (on the island of Bali) and Komodo.
    • Flights from Denpasar to Yogyakarta and Surabaya to Denpasar are included in the price of your tour.
    • All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach and train.
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    Baggage allowance
    • Airlines place varying weight restrictions on baggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage; be advised that you are responsible for any such costs.
    • Contact your airline for detailed information regarding baggage size and weight restrictions for your flight, but please note that our travelers are restricted to one checked bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights. We recommend that you limit your baggage to under 44lbs to avoid charges on included flights on this tour.
    • One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 total inches (length + width + height).
    • Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
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    Clothing & packing tips
    • We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
    • A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
    • Waterproof shoes or sandals, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended for outdoor activities.
    • Binoculars are handy for a closer look at local wildlife and scenery.
    • You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
    • It is preferable not to visit temples or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
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    Health
    • At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
    • If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour, as well as any possible delays encountered.
    • Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications may be banned in Indonesia. Importing these drugs can carry severe consequences, including imprisonment. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to departure to ensure that any drugs you may want to bring with you are legal in Indonesia.
    • If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
    • You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code JAB.
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    Cuisine
    • Indonesian cuisine gets its rich flavor from local herbs and spices, and it relies heavily on the island’s most abundant crop: rice. Popular local dishes include ayam pelalah (shredded chicken cooked in spices, lime, and chili), nasi rawon (beef stew made using the keluak nut), and nasi uduk (rice cooked in coconut milk served with fried chicken, shredded omelette, anchovies, soybean cake, and sambal).
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    Electricity & air conditioning
    • Indonesia operates on 230 volts and use Types C and F plugs with two small, round pins.
    • We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
    • The strength of the air conditioning in Asian hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what one might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
    • Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
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    Connectivity
    • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
    • There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
    • Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
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    Time zones
    • The island of Java is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 11 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).
    • Bali and Komodo are eight hours ahead of GMT and 12 hours ahead of EST.
    • When it’s noon in New York, it’s 11pm on the island of Java and midnight the next day on the islands of Bali and Komodo.
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    Currency
    • You will use the the Indonesian rupiah on tour.
    • Better rates of exchange are usually available abroad, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
    • We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
    • You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
    • Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
    • International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
    • Please note that counterfeiting can be an issue on the island of Bali. Some establishments will accept U.S. dollars, but often only if they are in good condition and issued after 1996.
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    Tipping
    • At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
    • We recommend tipping the equivalent of $8USD to $10USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
    • If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
    • Tips can only be paid in cash.
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    Purchasing excursions on tour
    • Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
    • Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
    • Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
    • Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.
    • International travel is, by its very nature, unpredictable. We must therefore reserve the right to change this itinerary, without advance notice, to meet with local conditions at the time of travel. We appreciate your understanding. Please refer to our website for Terms & Conditions, dates, and prices.
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