Best of Indonesia

Intrepid Travel · 23 days

5.0

3 Reviews

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Duration

23 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Far from ‘just another island getaway’, Indonesia is in many ways a whole world of its own, a sprawling constellation of islands all with something unique to offer.

Highlights

Spot orangutans in the wild in Gunung Leuser National Park for the best opportunities in all of Indonesia. This diverse ecosystem is also home to some 300 bird species and the endangered Sumatran tiger!
Stay in the Bukit Lawang Eco Lodge for a unique jungle experience – you'll also be supporting the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Program!
Climb the Sibayak Volcano, picnic at the summit, then relax in the local hot springs. For your second trekking adventure, you’ll climb Mt Bromo and if conditions allow, be treated to sunrise views over mist-laden volcanoes.
Cycle through Yogyakarta’s backcountry, riding through a world of flower-studded fields and friendly, smiling locals.
Walk through the jungle and rice paddies of Seloliman Nature Reserve, learn about local herbs then sit back, relax and soak up the ambience under the stars.

Trip Details

Duration

23 days

Transportation

Ferry,Private Minibus,Private Bus,Taxi,Train,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Medan, Indonesia

Finishes

Ubud, Indonesia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Medan

Selamat datang! Welcome to Indonesia. The adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you happen to arrive early, perhaps check out Maimun Palace – designed by a Dutch Architect and built in the 19th century, it combines architecture from Malay, Indian and Islamic cultures and is now a museum. Alternatively, buy a ticket and take a guided tour of the museum at Tjong A Fie Mansion – known as ‘the historical jewel in Medan’, the Tjong A Fie was built in 1895 by a hakka merchant and is modelled on the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion in Penang. After your meeting, maybe grab some street food at one of the night markets in town.

Optional Activities:

Medan - Maimun Palace (10000 IDR)
Medan Grand Mosque (5000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Bukit Lawang

Jump aboard a private vehicle and drive to Bukit Lawang. The first part of the journey involves quite heavy traffic, but the roads are nice and smooth. Closer to Bukit Lawang it gets bumpy and windy, so brace yourself for a bit of an adventure. The reward for the journey is Bukit Lawang – a peaceful village on the banks of the Bohorok river, right next to the Gunung Leuser National Park. In the afternoon you can take an optional tour in the countryside by becak (cycle rickshaw) or cool off with a refreshing swim in the river. There will be also be plenty of time to prepare for your jungle trek.

Optional Activities:

Bukit Lawang - Countryside tour (200000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Gunung Leuser National Park

Set off on your trekking adventure through the Gunung Leuser National Park with an experienced guide. This UNESCO World Heritage site and Wildlife Heritage Area spans 7927 sq km and is one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. It's the home of many endangered species, including the Sumatran tiger, rhinoceros and elephants. These animals are extremely rare, but you’ll get the chance to go in search for wild orangutans. There used to be an orangutan rehabilitation centre here, but now these creatures have all been returned to their natural habitat, so this is your best chance in Indonesia to see orangutans in the wild. There are also 300 species of birds and many rare plants and flowers. Along the way, your guides will point out orangutan nests, edible plants for you to try, monkeys and birds. Tonight you’ll camp in the jungle – enjoy the atmosphere of the wild as the sun goes down and the guides cook dinner for the group.

Included Activities:

Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek
Gunung Leuser NP - Trekking Lunch
Gunung Leuser NP - Campsite Dinner

Accommodation:

Camping (with no facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Gunung Leuser National Park/ Bukit Lawang

Today, your adventure takes you deeper into the heart of Gunung Leuser National Park. Following a hearty breakfast, head out on another invigorating trek, this time in a new direction, promising even more opportunities to encounter the park's incredible wildlife. Let the lush surroundings envelop you in a natural symphony of sights and sounds, then return to the guesthouse in Bukit Lawang to unwind in the afternoon. Settle in for a restful evening, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.

Included Activities:

Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Berastagi

Say goodbye to the jungle this morning and head out for Berastagi – the home of the Karo people, a Batak sub-group with traditional villages (long houses) and your destination for the next two nights. Arrive after lunch, then enjoy the free time to explore at your own pace or take the opportunity to rest and recharge after two long days of trekking.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Mt. Sibayak/Berastagi

Your day starts with a short drive to the starting point of today's hike, which will bring you to the top of the Sibayak Volcano (2094 m). The trail can be quite steep, muddy and slippery, especially in the wet season. You’ll follow a shady jungle path which, towards the top, opens into an alpine setting. Long pants are essential to protect you from poisonous plants, and a trekking stick will also come in handy! From the summit, you can see (and hear) the steaming vapours escaping from the fumaroles of this active volcano. After the descent, sit down for a traditional bungkus lunch just in time to reward your hardwork on the hike and enjoy the views. You’ll then head back for a relax. You may also choose to go to the nearby hot springs for a soothing soak – after a few days of trekking, relaxing in these pools, which are all naturally heated by the volcano, will be a welcome relief.

Included Activities:

Mt Sibayak - Picnic lunch
Mt Sibayak - Volcano climb

Optional Activities:

Berastagi - Hot springs (20000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Lake Toba

This morning, head to Lake Toba – surrounded by mountains, this spot is a peaceful place to relax. Formed by a huge volcanic eruption 70,000 years ago, a second eruption 50,000 years later created an island the size of Singapore in the middle of the lake (Samosir Island). Stop at Dokan Village along the way, where you'll find the traditional homes of local Batak families. From here, take a ferry across the glistening waters to Samosir Island, then drive to your lakeside accommodation. You have a free night to unwind and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance – your accommodation is right next to the lake and there’s nice views of the water, mountains and rice fields.

Included Activities:

Dokan Village - Batak longhouse visit

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Lake Toba

Embark on a day tour in Samosir today. Visit the Stone Chairs and the Simanindo Museum (in a traditional house). You’ll also travel up to a viewpoint on the island which gives you a panoramic vista of Lake Toba and the surrounding Sumatran countryside. Walk through nearby rice fields and stop by a local Batak house for a traditional lunch. Toba Island is dotted with many ancient and modern grave sites, several of which you’ll see today. You’ll also have the chance to attend a traditional Batak dance performance!

Included Activities:

Lake Toba - Samosir Island day tour
Lake Toba - Stone Chairs
Lake Toba - Simanindo Museum
Lake Toba - Batak Dance Performance

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Medan

Say goodbye to Lake Toba, then drive to the Lake Port. Hop aboard a rustic wooden boat and glide to Tiga Raja Port. Take a moment to peruse the stalls of the weekly market nearby if it happens today, then head on to Medan. This is a bit of a travel day, but the passing landscapes are perfect to pass the time if you can grab a window seat! Arrive in Medan in the late afternoon, then maybe head out for a farewell dinner with your group and local leader, celebrating an amazing adventure.

Optional Activities:

Medan - Maimun Palace (10000 IDR)
Medan Grand Mosque (5000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Jakarta

Today, you’ll fly from Medan to Jakarta after breakfast. When you arrive, enjoy some free time in Jakarta check out some of the museums –maybe explore the Wayang (puppetry), Balai Seni Rupa (fine arts) and Maritime museums. The National Museum is also great for first-time visitors. Maybe check out the Monas (National Monument), dedicated to the spirit of the Indonesian people. You’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new members of your group. After, maybe head out to dinner to get to know each other better.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Jakarta

Familiarise yourself with the city on a full-day tour of Jakarta with your local leader. Take in Sunda Kelapa port – where the Dutch first landed, temple-filled Chinatown and the old town of Batavia. See Si Jagur – an old Portuguese cannon ornately decorated with a disguised meaning. Visit a Chinese mansion (Chandra Naya) and gain an insight into the beautiful Peranakan architecture. Wander Fatahillah Square, then explore the religious side of the city at Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque – the largest mosque in South East Asia. Tonight, you’re free to find some delicious local eats – just ask your leader!

Included Activities:

Jakarta - City tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Bandung

This morning, take a train to Bandung – a former Dutch city which now boasts a thriving art, shopping and cafe scene. When you arrive around lunch time, you’ll head out for a street food crawl at the Paskal Food Market. Maybe try some satay skewers, gado-gado (a traditional Indonesian salad made from boiled eggs and vegetables) or roasted chicken with rice and vegetables. After, walk off the full belly with a heritage walk through Braga Street – once the centre of local development, this street was home to the first shopping arcade in Bandung, with lots of art deco buildings, shops and a cinema. Sit down for a cup of coffee (in a locally beloved one) and watch the world go by.

Included Activities:

Bandung - Paskal Food Market Street Food Crawl
Bandung - Heritage Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Bandung

Today you’ll head out of Bandung for a day trip to the largest volcano in West Java – Tangkuban Perahu, the only volcanic mountain in Indonesia that you can drive to – and its lush surroundings. Circled by pine forests and tea plantations, you’ll soak up the views as you learn about the unique history of the volcano. Take a walk around the craters with your leader, then head to the Ciater Hot Springs. Along the way, visit a local tea plantation to learn about the tea industry in Java, then continue to the hot springs for a relaxing soak to soothe the muscles. Later, you have a free afternoon and evening back in Bandung.

Included Activities:

Bandung - Tangkuban Perahu Mountain & Crater Walk
Bandung - Tea Plantation
Bandung - Natural Hot Spring

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Yogyakarta

This morning, catch a train to Yogyakarta. This town is one of South East Asia's real gems! Known as Java's cultural heart, Yogyakarta has a great atmosphere and is perfect to explore on foot. From batik workshops to the nearby Hindu and Buddhist temples, Yogya offers a great array of cultural avenues to explore. When you arrive, you’re free to explore at your own pace – just ask your leader for recommendations.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Yogyakarta

Rise early to avoid the crowds at Candi Borobudur – the largest Buddhist structure on earth. This UNESCO World Heritage site is set in a tranquil park and as you approach, you'll see the temple rise before you, looming among tropical foliage. With your local guide, follow the route of ancient pilgrims, circling the mandala-shaped structure from the early realms towards Nirvana. After, you have a free afternoon. You might like to visit one of Yogya's other heritage temples – Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu complex in Java. Tonight, perhaps catch a performance of the Ramayana Ballet – your leader will be able to check dates and availability for you.

Included Activities:

Borobudur - Temple Tour

Optional Activities:

Yogyakarta - Prambanan temple complex (525000 IDR)
Yogyakarta - City Walking Tour (300000 IDR)
Yogyakarta - Silver jewellery making course (300000 IDR)
Yogyakarta - Ramayana Ballet (450000 IDR)
Yogyakarta - Prambanan visit, Ramayana Ballet and Dinner (1000000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Yogyakarta

Pedal out of the city on a cycling tour through the rice fields and countryside surrounding Yogyakarta. See the locals making various goods, from bricks to tofu and tempeh. Pass palms, lush green grasslands and the odd burst of yellow and pink flowers by the side of the road, which make for great photo opportunities! After, you have a free afternoon to maybe take on a cooking class where you can learn about Indonesian cuisine. Or, why not salute the sun with a yoga class.

Included Activities:

Yogyakarta - Countryside cycling tour

Optional Activities:

Yogyakarta - Cooking course (300000 IDR)
Yogyakarta - Yoga Class (150000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Seloliman Nature Reserve

Travel by train, then minivan to Seloliman Nature Reserve today. This peaceful reserve sits on the slopes of the sacred volcano, Mt Penanggungan. When you arrive, you’ll meet some of the volunteers working at the Seloliman Environmental Education Centre and learn about what they do here. For lunch, sit down for some delicious, locally grown organic produce cooked by their staff. The centre's accommodation is atmospheric, even with open-air bathrooms built in harmony with the surrounding forest, so take this opportunity to relax this afternoon. This is a beautiful spot to appreciate nature, sit under the stars as the sun goes down and spend an evening technology-free!

Included Activities:

Seloliman Nature Reserve - Environmental Education Centre Visit
Seloliman Nature Reserve - Environmental Education Centre Lunch
Seloliman Nature Reserve - Environmental Education Centre Dinner

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Seloliman Nature Reserve/Mt. Bromo

Join the reserve staff on a walk around the property this morning, learning about the local environment and the Javanese tradition of herbal medicine. You'll gain an insight into the region’s flora and fauna, traditional farming methods, rice production and the mini hydroelectricity plant. Finish up with a traditional jamu demonstration and a tasting of this Javanese herbal medicine. Then, travel to Mt Bromo – the homeland of the Tenggerese. The still-active volcano – standing at 2329 m – is the most well-known of the Tengger massif. Retire early tonight in preparation for tomorrow's early start.

Included Activities:

Seloliman Nature Reserve - Guided Walk & Herbal Drink Tasting
Seloliman Nature Reserve - Environmental Education Centre Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Mt. Bromo/ Kalibaru

Your early start today (around 3 am) will be well worth it! First, drive to a lookout point in jeeps to catch the sunrise over the sea of sand. After, you’ll climb up to the volcano crater to take a peek inside – the ascent is not too difficult (approximately 45 minutes), but it can be very cold, so don't forget to bring extra layers of clothing. It's also worth bringing a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, as it can get dusty. Return to the hotel to freshen up and then depart midmorning to Kalibaru in a private minivan, stopping for lunch along the way. Tonight, you’re free to relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a local massage.

Included Activities:

Mt Bromo - Sunrise climb

Accommodation:

Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Pemuteran

Head out early this morning to tour some nearby coffee and cocoa plantations. You'll see how coffee is dried and if there’s time, how cocoa is fermented. Before you set off, enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea and snack on fried bananas – yum! Travel by minibus to the far eastern end of Java – Gilimanuk. There is often a lot of heavy traffic on this stretch of road as it's the main entry point for Bali, so there may be some delays. Next, you'll board a ferry across the Java Strait, then another minibus for a journey along the west coast of Bali to Pemuteran – your destination for the next two nights.

Included Activities:

Kalibaru - Coffee and Cocoa Plantation Tour

Accommodation:

Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Pemuteran

Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beachside location. Maybe start the day with a yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. You could visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming off the coast, or think about booking in a snorkelling or diving expedition to the turquoise waters of Menjangan Island. Otherwise, simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their day-to-day on one of the beaches.

Optional Activities:

Pemuteran - Yoga lesson (min 2 travellers, price per person from) (220000 IDR)
Pemuteran - Snorkelling (min 2 travellers, price per person from) (960000 IDR)
Pemuteran - Cooking class (min 2 travellers, price per person from) (375000 IDR)

Accommodation:

Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Ubud

Make the journey to Ubud today – the leafy-green natural paradise of Bali. On the way, stop in at Taman Ayun Temple, to take in the impressive Balinese architecture while you stroll around the gardens. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre with lots of markets, shops and warungs, close to verdant rice terraces and lush jungles. With nature and wellbeing at its core, Ubud is a highland haven popular with travellers. Tonight, why not get a group of your travel pals together and find a local place to eat some traditional Balinese cuisine.

Included Activities:

Mengwi - Taman Ayun Temple

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Ubud

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. There is plenty to see and do in Ubud, so it’s highly recommended you stay another few days to explore. If you do, maybe hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies and small villages, or visit the galleries, museums and handicraft merchants in town. If you would like to spend more time in Ubud, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

Ubud - Cooking class (350000 IDR)
Ubud - Whitewater rafting (750000 IDR)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,350

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 23 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Far from ‘just another island getaway’, Indonesia is in many ways a whole world of its own, a sprawling constellation of islands all with something unique to offer.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 10 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Thayumanavan

Traveled, January 2024

02/04/2024

The trip was very well planned , organized and it was very enjoyable

5.0

Sarah

Traveled, October 2023

11/01/2023

Discover Lombok was a fabulous tour. Fascinating island not overrun with tourists. Local guide Ell was great, being from Lombok himself his knowledge/local insights were amazing and really added to the trip. The quiet east coast was stunning. Highly recommend this trip!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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