Sustainable Java: slow travel through the heart of Indonesia

This sustainable journey through Java has been carefully designed to explore the island in a responsible way, minimizing environmental impact and prioritizing train and overland travel, with no domestic flights. A conscious approach that allows travelers to enjoy the landscapes, connect with local culture and experience the true rhythm of Indonesia.

The itinerary includes some of Java’s most iconic cultural landmarks, such as Borobudur and Prambanan temples, dramatic volcanic landscapes around Mount Bromo and Semeru, and outstanding natural sites like the Tumpak Sewu waterfalls. The journey ends in the stunning Karimunjawa Islands, a tropical archipelago of turquoise waters and coral reefs, perfect for relaxation and renewal.

Blending culture, nature and sustainability, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a slower, more meaningful way to discover Java, while reducing their carbon footprint and embracing responsible travel.

DAY 1 · WELCOME TO INDONESIA – YOGYAKARTA
Selamat datang! Welcome to Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java. Upon arrival, luggage collection and warm welcome by your local guide, followed by a transfer to the hotel.

The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy your first impressions of the city after the international flight.

In Yogyakarta: guided services in Spanish or English (subject to availability).
Note: Borobudur, Prambanan and the Sultan’s Palace are closed on Mondays.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 2 · BOROBUDUR & PRAMBANAN TEMPLES · YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR
After breakfast, we visit Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between the 8th and 9th centuries, this architectural masterpiece features terraces, stupas and over 2,500 m² of intricate bas-reliefs illustrating Buddhist philosophy.

We then continue to Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, adorned with Ramayana reliefs.

In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Yogyakarta, including Malioboro Street, the Sultan’s Palace (Keraton) and the Water Castle (Taman Sari).

Return to the hotel to rest.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 3 · YOGYAKARTA – MALANG (TRAIN JOURNEY · 6 HOURS)
Today we begin one of the highlights of this sustainable Java itinerary. Transfer to Yogyakarta train station to board a scenic train to Malang, a 6-hour journey through rural landscapes, volcanoes and traditional villages.

Arrival in Malang and transfer to the hotel.

Transfers with driver (drivers in Indonesia do not act as guides and speak basic English).
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 4 · MALANG CITY TOUR – PRONOJIWO (TUMPAK SEWU)
Morning guided visit of Malang, including:

Kampung Warna-Warni Jodipan, a colorful riverside neighborhood symbolizing urban renewal
Kampung Biru Arema, painted blue in honor of the local football team
We also visit Klenteng Eng An Kiong, a 19th-century Chinese temple blending Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian traditions.

In the afternoon, transfer to Pronojiwo, near Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (approx. 2 hours).
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 5 · TUMPAK SEWU WATERFALL – BROMO
Morning visit to Tumpak Sewu, often called the “Niagara of Indonesia”, an impressive amphitheater-shaped waterfall surrounded by jungle and mist.

Nearby, explore Goa Tetes, a cave with rock formations and small waterfalls.

In the afternoon, overland transfer to the Mount Bromo area (approx. 3.5 hours).
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 6 · BROMO SUNRISE – SEMARANG (4WD + TRAIN)
Early departure (around 03:00 AM) by 4WD vehicle to a viewpoint for the iconic Mount Bromo sunrise, with Mount Semeru rising above the volcanic landscape.

Walk to the crater rim before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Then transfer to the train station and board the train to Semarang (approx. 6 hours).

In Bromo: English-speaking guide and entrance fees included.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 7 · SEMARANG – JEPARA
After breakfast, drive to Jepara (2–3 hours). Check-in and free time to relax.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 8 · JEPARA – KARIMUNJAWA ISLANDS
Morning speedboat transfer to the Karimunjawa Islands, a pristine tropical archipelago known for turquoise waters, coral reefs and white-sand beaches.

Arrival and free time to enjoy this paradise.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 9 · KARIMUNJAWA · PRIVATE SNORKEL & ISLAND HOPPING
Full-day private island-hopping tour by traditional boat, visiting remote islands and coral reefs for snorkeling and relaxation.

Includes: transfers, snorkeling equipment, towels, drinks, coffee/tea and a grilled fish picnic lunch.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

DAYS 10–11 · KARIMUNJAWA
Free days to relax and enjoy the islands: snorkeling, diving, boat trips or simply unwinding by the sea.

Optional activities can be arranged directly with the hotel.
¡Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 12 · KARIMUNJAWA – JEPARA – YOGYAKARTA
Return by speedboat to Jepara, then overland transfer to Yogyakarta (approx. 5 hours). Overnight in the city.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 13 · YOGYAKARTA – DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
End of your sustainable Java journey. Terima kasih!
Meals included: Breakfast