east java travel itinerary

East Java Itinerary: A Complete Guide to the Spectacular Volcanic Island 2024

Looking for the perfect East Java Itinerary for 2024? Then look no further!

In this guide, we have highlighted the diverse landscapes and the rich cultural tapestry of East Java, Indonesia, with travel tips, cultural advice and best places to stay!

Indonesia has a special place in my heart, so I love writing about it often. It feels like a home away from home for me. Java is one of my favourite islands in the world. Its diverse landscapes, ancient charm and natural wonders still feel undiscovered by the travelling world in some ways.

From the historic city of Yogyakarta to the artsy streets of Malang and the jaw-dropping beauty of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java is a playground for explorers!

Ancient temples tell tales of a bygone era, and vibrant street art leads to enchanting waterfalls and sunrise views over volcanic peaks. Electric blue flames of Ijen Crater and the stunning coast and beaches. Furthermore, incredible food and wonderfully kind and generous people! What more could you ask for?

Indonesia Essentials

Indonesian VISA

Indonesian Pre-Paid SIM CARD

Search Hotels (Booking.com ) / Hostels ( Hostelworld )

Flights ( WayAway )

Nomad Travel Insurance ( Saftey Wing)

Airport / Hotel Transfer

Table of Contents

Itinerary map of our east java adventure:.

How Many Days Do You Need in East Java?

Java is not just a destination; it’s an invitation to experience the heart and soul of Indonesia in all its glory.

We spent 8 days immersing ourselves in the best of East Java. Still, even with our fervour, countless hidden gems were left unexplored. For the avid traveller seeking a balance between adventure and relaxation, I recommend dedicating 7-14 days to East Java. Two weeks allow a more leisurely pace, ensuring a deeper connection with the region’s wonders.

Trust me when I say seven days is the minimum for an authentic experience. Anything less might leave you skimming the surface of popular destinations, missing the essence of the adventure.

Whether it’s a week or two, East Java promises a lifetime journey. Though be warned, she will challenge you; the beauty makes every moment worthwhile!

Javanese Culture – Must Try Experiences:

Wayang kulit puppet show:.

Experience the famous (and slightly terrifying!) cultural tradition of Wayang Kulit, a traditional Javanese puppet show that combines storytelling, artistry, and shadow play.

If you are as scared of puppets as I am, it might not be too enthralling; however, it wouldn’t be a trip to Java without attending! You can attend a performance in Yogyakarta or Surabaya to witness ancient tales come to life through intricately crafted leather puppets.

Batik Workshop:

One thing Indonesians know how to do is fashion and textiles! I’m constantly in awe of the traditional dress the women and men wear. (And the ability to stay calm in it all!)

I highly recommend indulging in the rich artistry of Javanese batik, a traditional textile technique. You can enjoy a batik workshop in Yogyakarta to create your masterpiece, learning about each design’s intricate patterns and cultural significance.

Gamelan Music:

Here, you can immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Gamelan, a traditional Javanese ensemble of percussion instruments. Attend a live performance to appreciate the rhythmic harmony that plays a vital role in Javanese cultural celebrations.

I saw a live performance at the Sultan’s Palace in Jogja, which they do daily, and it was fantastic, so be sure not to miss it!

Visit a Traditional Javanese Market:

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of traditional markets like Pasar Beringharjo in Yogyakarta. I love engaging with local sellers, sampling authentic snacks, and witnessing the daily life of Javanese communities.

Javanese Customs & Travel Guidance

Before you jet off on your trip, let’s dive into some Javanese cultural customs and etiquette!

Respect for Elders:

Javanese culture places great importance on respecting elders. Use polite language and gestures when interacting with older individuals, and always give them precedence in social situations.

Modesty in Dress:

Javanese customs encourage modest attire, especially when visiting religious sites. Women may choose to wear a kebaya, a traditional blouse, and a sarong. Men are advised to wear long pants and a collared shirt.

Greeting Customs:

The traditional Javanese greeting involves a slight bow with hands pressed together in a prayer-like position called “salam format.” This gesture reflects politeness and humility.

Java is predominantly Muslim, and visitors should remember local customs during prayer times. Modesty in behavior and dress is appreciated, particularly in religious settings.

Costs of Travelling East Java

Flights from the usa and uk :.

Let’s kick things off with the big-ticket item: flights. Flying from the USA to East Java can range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the season, airline, and flexibility of your dates.

If you’re jetting in from the UK, you’re looking at approximately £600 to £1,200. Pro tip: watch for those sweet flight deals and be open to mid-week departures for potential savings.

Accommodation Ranges :

Now, let’s talk about where you’ll rest your bones. East Java caters to all budgets. Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, there’s a spot for you.

• Budget Hostels: $10 to $30 per night. Dormitory-style accommodations and cosy guesthouses are abundant, offering affordable options for the thrifty traveller.
• Mid-Range Stays: $40 to $100 per night. Enjoy a bit more comfort without breaking the bank. Mid-range options include boutique hotels and comfortable guesthouses.
• Luxurious Retreats: $120 and beyond. For those seeking the crème de la crème, indulge in upscale resorts and spa-like accommodations.

Food Ranges :

Fueling your adventures is crucial, and East Java doesn’t disappoint when it comes to gastronomic delights.

• Street Food and Local Eateries: $2 to $5 per meal. Dive into the local food scene with street-side treats and traditional dishes.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: $10 to $20 per meal. Enjoy a sit-down meal in charming restaurants, sampling a variety of Indonesian flavors.
• Fine Dining Experiences: $30 and beyond. Treat yourself to culinary indulgence in upscale dining establishments.

Activities: Temples, Hiking Tours, and More :

• Temple Entry Fees: $2 to $5 per temple. East Java boasts awe-inspiring temples like Borobudur and Prambanan. Entrance fees are a small price to pay for a journey through Java’s ancient history.
• Hiking Tours: $20 to $50 per tour. Explore the breathtaking landscapes with guided hiking tours to Mount Bromo or Ijen Crater.
• Cultural Experiences: $10 to $30. Immerse yourself in local culture with dance performances, traditional ceremonies, and workshops.

Daily Spending Estimate :

• Budget Traveler: $50 to $70 per day. This includes budget accommodation, street food, and exploring on a shoestring.
• Mid-Range Explorer: $80 to $150 per day. Enjoy comfortable stays, varied dining options, and a mix of budget and guided activities.
• Luxury Seeker: $200 and beyond. Indulge in lavish accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive excursions for an opulent East Java experience.

Must-Try Food and Drink in Java:

Nasi campur:.

Savour the iconic Javanese mixed rice, Nasi Campur, my absolute favourite meal of all time. Nasi means ‘rice” and campur means “mixture”. That is because Nasi Campur is essentially a buffet window of lots of different dishes, means, tofu, temple and styles of vegetables you get to choose from.

Prices range from 25k-60k depending on where you go but it’s always the local haunts that serve the best flavours! I don’t go a day without Nasi Campur when I’m in Indonesia!

Indulge in Javanese Sate skewers of grilled meat served with peanut sauce. Whether chicken, beef, or lamb, this dish is a flavorful delight.

Try Gudeg, a sweet and savoury dish made from young jackfruit, coconut milk, and spices. It’s a unique culinary experience that captures the essence of Javanese cuisine.

Experience the traditional Javanese herbal drink, Jamu, known for its health benefits. Made from natural ingredients, it’s a refreshing and invigorating beverage.

Language Tips:

Learn basic phrases:.

While many locals in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Javanese phrases like “Sugeng Enjing” (Good morning) or “Matur Nuwun” (Thank you) enhances your cultural experience.

Polite Language:

Javanese culture values politeness. Adding expressions like “Pak” for Mr. and “Bu” for Mrs. when addressing locals shows respect.

Smile and Nod:

A friendly smile and a nod go a long way in Javanese culture. It signifies warmth and approachability, making your interactions more pleasant.

The 2 Week East Java Itinerary

Culture, tips and advice covered, let’s dive into the complete 2-week east java itinerary!

Yogyakarta – Gateway to Java’s Culture:

Yogyakarta, affectionately known as Jogja, serves as the cultural heart of Java. Steeped in history, this city boasts the grandeur of the Kraton, the Sultan’s Palace. It offers immersive experiences like the traditional Wayang Kulit puppet shows. 

I loved Yogyakarta; it was a city with the architectural feel of a village. It had great food, great people, and so much to explore! I felt safe here as a solo female traveller, too!

Borobudur, the colossal Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, the magnificent Hindu temple complex, testify to the region’s diverse religious heritage. An East Java itinerary would not be complete without a trip to these famous and historic sites.

The bustling Malioboro Street beckons with its vibrant atmosphere and local craftsmanship, providing a perfect introduction to the enchanting spirit of Yogyakarta.

Accommodations:

– Luxury Option:   The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta

– Budget Option:   Wanderloft Hostal Jogja

• Morning.  Arrive in Yogyakarta, the cultural hub of Java, and settle into your accommodation.
• Afternoon:  Explore the Kraton (Sultan’s Palace) and the (Taman Sari) Water Palace to immerse yourself in Javanese history and culture.
• Evening:  Attend a mesmerising shadow play, a traditional Wayang Kulit puppet show.

• Morning:  Visit Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
• In the afternoon,  explore the nearby Pawon and Mendut temples.
• Evening:  Return to Yogyakarta for a stroll down Malioboro Street .

• Good morning.  Discover the Prambanan Temple complex, a masterpiece of Hindu architecture.
• Afternoon:  Participate in a Batik workshop to create your piece of traditional Indonesian art.
• Evening:  Enjoy a serene dinner at one of Yogyakarta’s local warungs.

Borobudur Temple (Entrance: IDR 475,000):

• How to Get There:  Fly into Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG) in Yogyakarta, then take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Borobudur.

Prambanan Temple (Entrance: IDR 400,000):

• How to Get There:  Prambanan is just a short drive from Yogyakarta. Use local transportation, hire a private driver, or take a tour. You can usually combine a time with Borobodur from Yogyakarta.

Surabaya – Gateway to Urban Dynamism:

Our journey now brings us to Surabaya, strategically situated in the north of East Java. As the gateway to the region, Surabaya offers a dynamic blend of modernity and Javanese tradition, making it an essential stop on our East Java adventure.

You can get trains super easily from Yogjakarta here and onwards into East Java, making it a great stop to explore the coast of northeast Java if you wish to do so!

Surabaya, affectionately known as the “City of Heroes,” is a testament to Indonesia’s resilience. Boasting a skyline of towering structures, it’s a metropolis that encapsulates the spirit of a new era in Java.

– Luxury Option: Bumi Surabaya Resort

– Budget Option : Zest Hotel Jemursari

• Morning:  Visit Pasar Atom, a vibrant traditional market.
• Afternoon:  Explore the House of Sampoerna and enjoy local cuisine for lunch.
• Night:  Pay homage at the Heroes Monument and Marvel at Al-Akbar Mosque .
• Morning:  Explore Suramadu National Bridge . Capture morning views of the bridge.
• Afternoon:  Stroll through the city centre. Enjoy a coffee break at a local café.
• Night:  Delve into Javanese cuisine at a local warung.

Malang – Waterfalls and Cultural Vibes:

Up next on the East Java itinerary, a city very close to my heart, Malang! A city embraced by cool highland air is a haven for art lovers and nature enthusiasts. Also, If you are a foodie like me then Java is the home of Nasi Campur, my favourite Indonesian dish and Malang is a great place to try it!

Its streets are decorated with colourful murals, and Jodipan Village is a visual feast for the eyes with its vibrant multi-coloured houses; I have never seen anything quite like this on my travels.

Tumpak Sewu, Coban Rondo and Coban Pelangi waterfalls, nestled in the surrounding mountains, captivate with their natural beauty. Malang’s cultural vibes and artistic scenes make it a delightful stop, offering a perfect blend of modernity and historical charm.

– Luxury Option:   Grand Mecure Malang

–  Budget Option:   Kertanegara Premium Guest House

• Morning:  Visit Coban Rondo Waterfall , a mesmerising waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Afternoon:  Explore Jodipan Village , an Instagram-worthy village known for its colourful houses.
• Evening:  Relax and enjoy the local culinary delights.

• Morning:  Head to Batu to visit Tumbak Sewu and enjoy the best waterfall in Indonesia!
• Afternoon:  Explore the charming atmosphere of Batu City .
• Evening:  Enjoy the night at leisure in Malang.

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park – Sunrise Over Volcanic Majesty:

Next on our East Java itinerary is Bromo. Enter the surreal landscapes of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where the mystical Mount Bromo rises from the Sea of Sand. The pre-dawn trek to witness the sunrise unveils a breathtaking panorama, creating a spiritual connection with the volcanic majesty.

I didn’t have time to trek Bromo on my East Java Itinerary! But for all those I’ve spoken to, they said it was magnificent, and it is certainly on my bucket list for next time!

– Luxury Option: Plataran Bromo (Very few hotels take my breath away, and this is one of them!)

– Budget Option:   Bromo Otix Guest House

• Morning:   Travel to Cemoro Lawang, the base for Mount Bromo.
• Afternoon:  Check into your accommodation and rest for the early morning ascent.
• Pre-dawn:   Embark on a sunrise trek to Mount Bromo for a breathtaking panoramic view.
• Good morning.  Explore the Sea of Sand and the Bromo crater.
• Afternoon:  Return to Cemoro Lawang for relaxation.
• Evening:  Savor local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Mount Bromo (Entrance: IDR 230,000):

• How to Get There:  Fly into Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya. Hire a private car from Surabaya or join a guided tour to Cemoro Lawang, the gateway to Mount Bromo. Or get a train or bus from anywhere in Java.

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Hidden Javanese Coastal Wonders

Now, instead of jumping straight from hiking one volcano to the next, take a breather and have a beach getaway just south of Malang.

You would be pleasantly suprised by the beauty of the Java coast, with neighbouring Bali getting all the rep as a holiday destination. But adding these to your list will add a lot of diversity to your East Java itinerary.

Explore the coastal wonders of East Java, starting with Persona Pantai Banyu Anjok, a serene beach surrounded by lush landscapes. Discover Pantai Dan Air Terjun, where cascading waterfalls meet the sea, creating a picturesque scene.

Also, Indahnya Pantai Tiga Warna is a stunning beach adorned with vibrant hues. These coastal gems showcase the diverse beauty that East Java has to offer, providing a serene and picturesque conclusion to your spiritual travel adventure.

After all that un-godly hour of hiking, you’ll need a few relaxing beach days; luckily, there are many beautiful beaches to explore.

The first is Persona Pantai Banyu Anjok and Pantai Dan Air Terjun, which are for a tranquil beach and waterfall experience. You can spend a whole day here exploring the area or just soaking up those sun rays.

Explore Indahnya Pantai Tiga Warna, another stunning beach.

Ijen Crater – Blue Flames and Ethereal Landscapes:

Saving the best experience till last! Our East Java adventure concludes on an unforgettable hike to Ijen Crater, where surreal landscapes and otherworldly experiences await. It’s easily one of the most jaw-dropping and unique travel experiences ever! This trek is what made me fall in love with East Java.

The pre-dawn trek was seriously tough. We left Banyuwangi at 2 am, reached the volcano base at 3 am, and faced a gruelling two-hour uphill climb. Relief at the summit was short-lived; we had to descend into the active volcano crater to see the blue flames! Gas masks and goggles were a must due to the potent sulfur. The trek down was challenging, and the climb back up was even more challenging. Fatigue, sulfur scent, and pitch-black darkness – it was a race against time to catch the sunrise. I almost cried; it was such a tough morning. But reaching the summit made me forget it all, witnessing one of the most spectacular sunrises etched in my memory.

The reward of the mesmerizing blue flames amidst the volcanic depths made it all worthwhile. I’ll never forget the resilient sulfur miners too, who tackle this route daily, earning peanuts for their heroic efforts. They’re unsung superheroes, and their back-breaking work made me pause and appreciate all I have.

Day 13 – Travel and Rest Before Ijen!

• Pre-dawn:   Begin your trek to Ijen Crater to witness the mesmerising blue flames.
• Morning:  Explore the Ijen Crater – life changing sunrise.
• Afternoon:  Return to Banyuwangi for some relaxation.
• Evening:  Overnight stay in Banyuwangi.

Ijen Crater (Entrance: IDR 100,000):

• How to Get There:  From Mount Bromo, travel to Banyuwangi. Ijen Crater is accessible by a 2-hour drive from Banyuwangi.

Banyuwangi – The Tranquil Finale:

As we reach the culmination of our East Java adventure, Banyuwangi emerges as the perfect finale, offering a serene retreat before and after the exhilarating Ijen Crater hike. 

Nestled between the Bali Strait and the Indian Ocean, Banyuwangi welcomes you with diverse landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Bali is a popular onward travel route for those on an East Java itinerary travel route.

Luxury Option:   Ketapang Indah Hotel

Budget Option:   Banana Homestay

• Good morning.  Commence your day with the enchanting Jagir Waterfall, nestled in lush greenery. Immerse yourself in the traditional culture at Kampung Anyar, where the vibrant customs of Java come to life.
• Afternoon:  Journey to the captivating Red Island (Pantai Pulau Merah) for its red-hued sands and coastal beauty
• Night:  Experience the lively atmosphere at Blambangan Night Market, indulging in local delicacies and traditional crafts.

MORE : Off the Beaten Path East Java:

If you are feeling more adventurous, consider adding some of these lesser-known villages and places to your East Java itinerary. You will be immersed in local life and the culture here.

Kampung Tridi (3D Village):

Situated in Malang, Kampung Tridi is an immersive 3D art village where houses are painted with optical illusions. Visitors can interact with the art, creating unique photo opportunities in this offbeat destination.

Kampung Gunung (Mountain Village):

Nestled at the foot of Mount Bromo, Kampung Gunung offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Experience local village life and enjoy the serenity away from the more touristy areas.

Madakaripura Waterfall:

Often overshadowed by other waterfalls in the region, Madakaripura is East Java’s tallest waterfall. Tucked in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, the cascading water surrounded by canyon walls creates a magical setting.

Desa Ngadisari (Ngadisari Village):

A charming village near Mount Bromo, Ngadisari provides a glimpse into rural Javanese life. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this village offers a peaceful getaway and serves as a gateway to the iconic volcano.

Using Kemiren Village:

Nestled in the hills near Banyuwangi, Osing Kemiren Village is inhabited by the indigenous Osing people. Explore their unique customs and traditional houses, and witness traditional arts performances in this cultural enclave.

Pacitan Caves (Goa Gong):

In Pacitan, discover the mesmerising Goa Gong, an intricate cave system featuring stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. This underground wonder is off the typical tourist trail and offers an adventure for cave enthusiasts.

Red Island (Pantai Pulau Merah):

Escape to Red Island, a hidden coastal paradise near Banyuwangi. This unspoiled beach boasts red-hued sand and offers a tranquil setting for those seeking a less crowded coastal experience.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall:

Known as the “Thousand Waterfalls,” Tumpak Sewu is a hidden gem in Lumajang. Surrounded by lush jungles, the waterfall creates a captivating scene. It is less frequent compared to other waterfalls in the region.

Onwards Travel to Bali or Lombok:

After youhave completed your East Java itinerary, then consider doing some island hopping to neighbouring islads such as Lombok or Bali . They can easily be accessed through ariport or ferry and I would highly reccomend visiting this small but mighty islands!

Onwards Travel to Bali:

How to get there:  .

Short flights from Surabaya or Yogyakarta to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali are available. Or overland transport, such as a bus or train to the ferry port in Banyuwangi. Cross the Bali Strait, then take a bus to your chosen destination in Bali.

Read our Bali Itineraries: 3-Weeks in Bali , 5-Days in Bali , Spiritual Things to Do in Bali & Tours in Bali !

Places to Stay:

Onwards Travel to Lombok:

Ferries operate from Banyuwangi to Lembar in Lombok. Or fly from an airport in Java. You can also get the ferry across to Bali, travel by bus to Sanur and get another ferry (5hours) Alternatively head to the ferry port of Padang Bai in Bali and catch a fast boat (1.5 hours)

• Gili Islands
• Mount Rijiani
• Tanjung Ringgit Peninsula ( Lombok Pink Beach )

East Java Itinerary Conclusion

In conclusion, crafting an unforgettable East Java itinerary opens the door to diverse experiences and hidden treasures. Whether navigating the historic streets of Yogyakarta, exploring the vibrant markets in Surabaya, or discovering the off-the-beaten-path wonders tucked away in the region, each moment contributes to the tapestry of your East Java journey.

Your meticulously planned East Java itinerary serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the enchanting landscapes of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, the mystical Ijen Crater, and the coastal wonders of Persona Pantai Banyu Anjok and Pantai Dan Air Terjun. These destinations weave together seamlessly, offering a holistic view of East Java’s cultural richness and natural allure.

As you traverse the lesser-known villages, such as Jodipan and Osing Kemiren, the hidden gems of East Java come to life. Off the beaten path, these locales unveil a side of the region beyond the typical tourist trail, providing an authentic and immersive experience.

Throughout your East Java itinerary, from the bustling streets of Surabaya to the tranquil retreats near Bromo, every stop contributes to the narrative of a journey well-crafted. It’s not just a series of destinations; it’s a curated exploration that allows you to savour the diverse flavours, cultures, and landscapes that define this Indonesian province.

Ultimately, your East Java itinerary is more than a mere list of places to visit; it is a testament to the art of travel, where each carefully selected moment contributes to the adventure of a lifetime. So, embark on your East Java journey with the confidence that every step, every village, and every sunrise promises a unique and unforgettable experience, making your itinerary a key to unlocking the beauty of this captivating region.

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1-Week East Java Itinerary: Temples, Waterfalls, & Volcanoes

Java, the most populated island of Indonesia, is home to some of the most incredible volcanic landscapes in the world. Central Java and East Java are a must for your Indonesia itinerary.

The smoking craters at Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen have become famous tourist destinations in Java, but this island is also dotted with jungles, ancient temples, and waterfalls galore.

This 1-week East Java itinerary will guide you through some of the unmissable highlights of Java that we visited on our first trip through the area, starting in Central Java and ending in west Bali.

You can click the links for more information on each of these sights as you go!

✈ Where To Start

The starting point of this Java itinerary is Yogyakarta in central Java, Indonesia .

Fly to Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), which is served by a bunch of budget friendly airlines with good ratings. AirAsia often has flights from Singapore (SIN) or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Yogya for 1 million Rupiah ($70 USD), or flights from Bali (DPS) for only 600k Rupiah ($40).

You can shop for flights to Yogyakarta at Skyscanner.

You can also do this itinerary in reverse if you’d like, starting with the Bali ferry ride and then ending in Yogyakarta. The whole process will be largely the same!    

• Day 1: Dieng Plateau

  Kick off your Java sightseeing with a full day trip to Dieng Plateau in the volcanic highlands west of Yogyakarta, starting from town in the early morning hours to get there in time for an epic sunrise on Sikunir hill.

After the sunrise, go see the sulfuric lakes, hill terraces, smoking hot springs, and some of the oldest surviving temples on the island of Java.

More info: Dieng Plateau  

Dieng Plateau

Sunrise on Sikunir hill

• Day 2: Prambanan & Borobudur Temples

○ prambanan temple.

Spend the morning exploring Prambanan, a group of massive Hindu temple ruins near Yogyakarta city in central Java. This temple is less famous than its cousin Borobudur, but I actually like this one best.  

○ Borobudur Temple

Move on to Borobudur, a big 9th century Buddhist temple that is a bit further outside Yogya and is famous as the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Side note: you can swap the order of Borobudur and Prambanan on this day if you want to see the sunrise at Borobudur.  

Prambanan Temple

Borobudur Temple

• Day 3: Train To Malang

Take the 7:45 AM train from Yogyakarta Stasiun to Malang.

The train ride takes 8 hours and costs 170k Rupiah (~$12 USD) per person. Book your tickets online at Tiket.com or the KAI website , and then scan the e-ticket when you reach the station.

This train ride was actually one of my favorite parts of the trip! It’s comfy, scenic, and enjoyable. You get A/C and food, and some amazing views of the Java countryside.  

• Day 4: Malang Waterfalls

○ tumpak sewu waterfall.

Start your day at the most impressive waterfall in Indonesia, Tumpak Sewu. The best lighting for photos is early in the morning, and it’s a 2 hour drive from Malang, so you’ll need to get a very early start!  

○ Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

From Tumpak Sewu, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kabut Pelangi. This is a huge waterfall worth the 45 minute hike!  

○ Kapas Biru Waterfall

From Kabut Pelangi, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kapas Biru waterfall. This one is a short 30 minute hike, but the waterfall at the end is incredibly scenic.  

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

Kapas Biru Waterfall

• Day 5: Coban Pelangi + Drive To Mount Bromo

○ coban pelangi waterfall.

This is a cool side trip you can do before the drive to Bromo. Coban Pelangi waterfall is a hidden beauty, located in the mountains 1 hour east of Malang.  

○ Drive From Malang To Mount Bromo

Drive from Malang to Cemoro Lawang (the village at Mount Bromo). The distance from Malang is only 130 kilometers (80 miles), but be prepared for it to take 3+ hours. Get to bed early so you can be ready for Bromo!

Mount Bromo is one of the main highlights of this East Java itinerary, so you’ll want to do it justice.  

Coban Pelangi Waterfall

Volcano X-ing

Before the sunrise

• Day 6: Mount Bromo Sunrise + Drive To Banyuwangi

○ mount bromo sunrise.

Wake up early and hike or drive to the sunrise viewpoint for Mount Bromo. Seeing these smoking volcano craters at the crack of dawn is a bucket list experience you’ll never forget.  

○ Drive From Bromo To Banyuwangi

Drive from Bromo to Ijen (homestay nearby is best). The distance from Bromo to Ijen is 230 kilometers (140 miles) and the drive takes a whopping 6+ hours.  

Sunrise At Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo

• Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater + Ferry To Bali

○ kawah ijen crater.

Wake up early and hike to the Ijen Crater. It’s a tough hike and you have to start very early if you want to see the blue fire (optional), or at least get there by golden hour for the best photos.  

○ Ferry To Bali

Cross from Java to Bali with the ferry at Ketapang. The trip takes 30-60 minutes and only cost us 8k Rupiah (less than one US Dollar) per person since we weren’t bringing any vehicle with us.

In Bali, you can book a private driver in advance to pick you up at the port (recommended), or you can negotiate for one when you land at the port. Either way, there will be an extra charge for drivers here, since the port is a long drive from the main tourist areas of Bali and it’s outside of most drivers’ normal service areas.

Welcome to Bali ! The adventure is just getting started!  

Kawah Ijen crater lake

Ferry To Bali

When Is The Best Time To Visit Java?

The best time to visit Java is from April to November, when it’s more sunny and dry.

The rainy season runs from November to April. You can go during this time, but it may not be ideal for the waterfalls or sunrises.  

Our East Java Driver

Starting from Malang (Day 3), we had a driver from Zaini Transport for the rest of the trip. He took us to all the waterfalls on this East Java itinerary, plus Mount Bromo and Ijen , and finally dropped us at the Bali ferry.

His daily price at Malang was 400k Rupiah + petrol, which worked out to be 620k Rupiah ($44 USD) for a full day visiting 3 waterfalls in Lumajang, then driving back to comfy Malang. His Bromo/Ijen rate was a little higher, but still the lowest I could find anywhere!

Our driver Dayat was punctual and very familiar with the area, so we had no trouble finding the waterfalls or other sights on this East Java itinerary. Highly recommended and much cheaper than booking a full tour package!  

• Mount Bromo Volcano Sunrise – Complete Travel Guide
• Kawah Ijen Crater Lake – Complete Travel Guide
• Best Hikes In Indonesia – Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls
• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide – Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Indonesia Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Photos

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From the Bali ferry what and how did you get the transport, and how much it cost ? Thanks

Hi Mihai. From the Bali ferry we arranged a private driver in advance, and he took us back to south Bali. You can book this on Klook , but make sure to mention that you will need pickup at the port in Gilimanuk. There will be an extra charge since it’s a long drive and the port is outside of most drivers’ normal service areas. Expect to pay 700k Rupiah or more for the drive, although you can ask them to show you places on the way. It’s also possible to negotiate for a driver once you arrive at the port in Bali, but I think it’s normally better and cheaper to arrange it in advance. Cheers

What would you say is a reasonable price for the whole itenery starting in malang with a driver. Including all tickets, fees and accomandation? I got an offer from the comapany you mentioned but it seems pretty highy.

Hi Hendrik. I would say maybe 3 to 5 million Rupiah for 3-4 days of driving and petrol, but it would definitely be higher if you include entrance fees and accommodation. I’m not sure what is a fair price in that case, since we paid for our tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. Cheers

Hello! Did you guys hike bromo or just drive to it at sunrise!

Hi Meghan! We did both. You can read more about that in our full guide for Mount Bromo .

Did you have to pay for your drivers food and accommodation in east java?

We didn’t pay for our driver’s food or accommodation. Some drivers may ask for that, though.

How did you manage the transportation for day 1 and day 2? Did you book a tour, or rent a car to go to Dieng Plateau, Prambanan & Borobudur Temples?

Hi Feng. For day 1 at Dieng Plateau, I would recommend going with a tour or a private driver. Here’s a Dieng tour with pickup from Yogyakarta . For day 2 at Prambanan and Borobudur, there are several options, but I think a tour or driver is still a good way to do it. Prambanan is pretty easy to reach since it’s located right in the city, and you can even get to it with a taxi. However, Borobudur is outside of the city so it’s harder to reach. That’s why a combo tour makes sense if it’s in your budget. Here’s a good day tour that includes both Borobudur and Prambanan .

Hey Devd & Intan !

Amar from india.

Your blog and details are one of the finest spot for anyone who considering for indonesia for sure. i’ve reading few blogs since few days & your one stand out with much enough clean details! Thank you for giving your time for us 🙂

Your 1 week Jawa hit me enough now wanted looking for one more week option apart of Bali. any other suggestion for photography travelers !?

Hi Amar, thanks for your comment. Some other good options are Komodo, Lombok, or Sumba. Those are all near Bali. You can also find more suggestions for nice Indonesian islands here .

Hi David and Intan,

Did you book you train tickets at the station or in advance. If so please let us know the link. Are there more schedules available at the station?

Hi Lien, we bought our train tickets in advance at Tiket.com and then you just scan the e-ticket when you reach the station. I am not seeing the YK -> ML route on that site anymore for some reason, but you can still buy it at the KAI website .

Thank you David! We will take a look at the site. 👍🙏

You mentioned that it takes about an hour from ketapang to Bali but looking at Ferry it says 4+hours. It had several stops. Did you book your ferry on KAI?

Any recommendation where to stay in Bali/Ubud close to attractions. Any food/ places to eat recommendation? How about Durian? 😊. Much appreciated! Sorry for the trouble. You can email me…thanks!

Hi Lien! The KAI site is only for the train. We didn’t book the ferry in advance and I’m not sure if you can. It always has seats available though, and there are departures every 20 minutes so it’s easy to get the next one. I just sent you an email for the other questions. 😊

Hi, Great article super helpful! Question, I’m interested in doing what you did for Java: Malang > waterfalls > Bromo > Injen > ferry to Bali. I message the driver service you mentioned and they quoted $411 (6300.000 IDR). Does that sound correct?

Hi! Yes that sounds about right for current prices.

Sorry, one more question if it’s not too much trouble. When you booked your driver did you book all of your days at once or did you pay them daily? Also, did you pay for your driver’s accommodations? Did they include all of the fees in their price or did you pay that separately?

I’m trying to book a driver for 2 days: Kepanjen > Tumpaksewu > Cemorolawang > Bromo > Surabaya.

Sure. We booked it all at once, but paid per day. We didn’t pay for the driver’s accommodations, but some drivers do ask for that (since it’s a road trip with multiple days of travel), so it’s possible they may ask for that now. On our trip, we paid our own fees/tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. That sounds like a good 2 day itinerary for Tumpak Sewu and Bromo. Enjoy!

Ok thanks. Did you pay ahead of time or day of?

We paid the day of.

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Wonderful 1 Week East Java Itinerary: Temples, Volcanoes and Waterfalls

• 1.1 Borobudur Temple
• 1.2 Prambanan Temple
• 1.3.1 Frequently Asked Questions: Yogyakarta
• 2 Day 4: Madakaripura Waterfall
• 3.0.1 Frequently Asked Questions: Mount Bromo
• 4 Day 6: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Goa Tetes Waterfall, Kapas Biru Waterfall
• 5.0.1 FAQ: Kawah Ijen Crater
• 6.1 Pulau Merah (Red Island Beach)
• 6.2 Tanjung Papuma (Papuma Beach)
• 6.3 Kabut Pelangi Waterfall
• 6.4 Jordipan Colourful Rainbow Village
• 7 East Java itinerary FAQ

If you were ever in doubt about Indonesia, East Java Indonesia has no shortage of incredibly scenic landscapes, volcanoes, temples, waterfalls, and loads of Javanese culture.

If you’re looking at an Indonesia map for the first time, It’s easy to get overwhelmed . There are 7 main regions (Java, Kalimantan, Sumatra, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, and Western New Guinea), With Java being the most populated island.

Java Indonesia consists of Central Java, West Java, and East Java where the ‘must see’ attractions ( volcanoes , waterfalls , temples , etc.) are extensive! but in this article, I’ll focus on an East Java itinerary that will show you only the best the island has to offer in a 1-week itinerary AND some bonus destinations if you have a few more days to spare.

TRAVELIST TIP: If you’re starting your trip from Jakarta or West Java Indonesia, Indonesia’s Central Java attractions should not be overlooked.  We started in Yogyakarta . I love to travel in Central Java because it hosts the wonderful culturally rich city of Yogyakarta and is the perfect place to start your journey of the attractions in Java island Indonesia.

Day 1 to 3: Yogyakarta

In Yogyakarta , you will find two of the most coveted tourist destinations in Indonesia: P rambanan Temple and Borobudur Temple  Java Indonesia. Both these monuments are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are vastly different in their structure and design.

HOW TO GET TO YOGYAKARTA

Yogyakarta is centrally located so getting there is easy with a variety of options via BUS, TRAIN & FLIGHT

JAKARTA to YOGYAKARTA 🚌🚅✈️

BALI to YOGYAKARTA ✈️

SURABAYA to YOGYAKARTA 🚅✈️

Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Central Java Indonesia is the LARGEST BUDDHIST TEMPLE IN THE WORLD! How interesting that in a vast majority Muslim country, you’d find the largest Buddhist monument in the world ! It just shows you the cultural diversity of Java as well as the beauty of different religions living in unison in the country.

RELATED READ: Borobudur Java Indonesia Temple at sunrise + 6 Factors to consider before buying your ticket

The sheer size of the temple Borobudur Java Indonesia is a sight to behold. One can effortlessly spend a good 3 to 4 hours walking the grounds and ascending the tiers to finally reach the stupas. As this infamous tourist spot in Indonesia is extremely popular , there is the option to visit for a Borobudur sunrise tour or during regular hours.

The sunrise tour affords you the ability to see the sun rising over the Borobudur compounds which is great for photography purposes. It’s a super early start especially if you aren’t staying near the temples.

Prambanan Temple

The island of Java Indonesia also hosts an equally beautiful Hindu masterpiece, Prambanan, which was also awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

RELATED READ: Prambanan Temple Yogyakarta: A Hindu Masterpiece in Indonesia

Characterized by spine-like features, unlike Borobudur, Prambanan temple suffered more significant wrath from the Mount Merapi volcano, as you will still see rubble and debris of the ancient stone yet to be restored to Prambanan temple.

TRAVELIST TIP: If you’re short on time, Both these temples can be visited on the same day , especially if you are doing a Borobudur at sunrise, Java Indonesia is incredibly hot so sunrise is a brilliant option to escape the humidity of the afternoon. Prambanan temple is also favoured to be visited from late afternoon into early evening for sunset.

More Activities in Yogyakarta

TOP 1 DAY YOGYAKARTA TOUR PICK

The Temples and Volcano Tour

5-Star Rated | “The best organizer I ever met. Always on schedule, top activities, top private car, and very kind!”

🌄Sunrise at Borobudur Temple

🚙Jeep Volcano Tour of Mount Merapi

🛕Prambanan Temple Tour

➡️Check Pricing and Availability for the Temples & Volcano Tour

There are some wonderful other places to visit in Yogyakarta but depending on your schedule you may have to pick and choose what you can and can’t do:

🏖️ Timang Beach

🔦 Jomblang Cave

🍦 Try Tempo Gelato

🌃 Experience Yogyakarta at night

Frequently Asked Questions: Yogyakarta

There are 3 main options for travelling around Java and Yogyakarta specifically: Taxi, hire a driver/car or bike, or use a tour company. USE a TOUR COMPANY (MY TOP PICK): The even more effortless option is to use a tour company (and is my recommendation). There are plenty of affordable tour options  that literally takes all the hassle and fuss out of navigating and travelling to these stunning locales. Hire a car and driver: (2ND PICK) Having a car and driver literally gives you the flexibility to do everything on your own time and without any schedule. >> Check out availability The taxi option is as simple as ordering an UBER, In Indonesia, it’s called GRAB. Hiring a motorcycle is only for those who have experience riding a motorcycle in Southeast Asia. The traffic is insane, and the other motorcycle drivers don’t follow the rules of the road, so If you don’t have this experience under your belt. You obviously need to have a driver’s licence and Make sure you also have INCREDIBLE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

I don’t have a preference here because I suggest doing Borobudur at Sunrise and Prambanan at sunset, so they could be done on the same day or separate days, but there is plenty more to see in Yogyakarta so I suggest spending at least two days in the city.

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Yogyakarta. These are some of my recommended picks in the city centre: Greenhost Boutique hotel , The Phoenix Hotel , Grand Aston , Hotel Tentrem , The 101 Yogyakarta Tugu Hotel

From Central Java, It’s time to make your way to Jawa Timur Indonesia  (East Java province in Bahasa Indonesian)

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:  We opted to use a train from Yogyakarta to Surabaya and had a tour company fetch us from Surabaya train station. Our East Java road trip began and ended in Surabaya, but depending on where you’re staying will determine your route .

HOW TO GET TO SURABAYA

I’d recommend it by train or flight. The train tickets may take longer, but they are comfortable and cost-effective. I did however notice that if you book flights early enough in Indonesia, you’ll find great deals, and there is also the option to grab a flight that costs the same as a first-class train ticket. We chose Surabaya because it was a larger city and had more travel options compared to East Java Malang.

YOGYAKARTA to SURABAYA 🚅✈️

JAKARTA to SURABAYA 🚌🚅✈️

BALI to SURABAYA ✈️

>>🗺️Check out this East Java Map to see where we’re heading

Day 4: Madakaripura Waterfall

I’ve truly never seen a waterfall anything like it . Madakaripura Waterfall East Java Indonesia is a towering waterfall that creates a beautiful curtain of mist and enriches the ever-growing moss of the cavernous rock face.

READ THE FULL POST: The Most Enchanting Waterfall – Madakaripura Waterfall Indonesia East Java

It was one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever seen. The walk into visiting Madakaripura is an easy journey but if you hadn’t researched it before, you have no idea what to expect and I still feel typing these words I cannot do it justice.

It took my breath away!

You will get wet, but who cares when you’re in this magical place? This unusual Malang waterfall created some incredible vertical panoramic shots. The walk through the cleared jungle path was also delightful.

TRAVELIST TIP:  So as you can see in the picture above, we’re in raincoats/ponchos. we actually weren’t as prepared for what to wear before we reached the destination. But there were plenty of vendors, selling, umbrellas, swimwear, raincoats etc. on the path to the waterfall so if you’re not keen to get super soaked – support the local vendors on route

THE TOUR WE BOOKED

We did this leg of the trip as a Private Multiday 3 Day 2 Night Trip from Surabaya (ending at Ketapang harbour). We visited Mount Bromo Volcano, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Kawah Ijen Crater Lake volcano >> BOOK THIS TOUR

Private 3D2N Mount Bromo Volcano, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Ijen Volcano Tour

🚗Private airconditioned transport

🗣️English-speaking driver

🚙Private 4WD Jeep for Bromo sunrise and crater visit

🚶‍♂️Local trekking guide at all sites

🛌 Accommodation 1 night in Banyuwangi and Mount Bromo area

🚢Ferry ticket

➡️CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY for 3D2N Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu Tour

🚘 GETTING TO CEMORO LAWANG:  

From Madakaripura Waterfall to Mount Bromo location is quite a drive, but it’s interesting to ride through the East Java island countryside . You’ll also note a significant temperature drop as you ascend to the higher elevation .

After visiting Madakaripura waterfall you will drive to the visit of Cemoro Lawang which is the closest village to Mount Bromo . There are a number of hotels, hostels, and homestays in the area and I highly suggest staying as close to the entrance to the Bromo National Park entrance as possible because again this is one of the most famous places in Indonesia to visit some there will be plenty of locals too that have made the journey to visit this spectacular natural wonder!

Day 5: Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo at sunrise along with the climb up to the crater rim was ultimately the travel experience that inspired me to take the risk and embrace my passion for travelling and start this blog.

That is how memorable visiting Mount Bromo is.

I’ve yet to find a person who can disagree with that statement. If this is the first time you’ll be visiting an active volcano you’ll realise how bucket list-worthy this moment is.

READ THE FULL POST: Mount Bromo Sunrise hike + 7 Reasons you have to Visit

Visiting Mount Bromo for sunrise is one of the most popular East Java attractions. The Bromo sunrise is best seen from Mount Penanjakan and then after sunrise, you head to Mount Bromo itself and take a short hike (walk up a series of stairs and across a sea of sand/ash) to the crater rim.

At the crater rim, you can literally see the smoke coming off the sulfur and it’s pretty safe. This is truly one of my favourite volcanoes in Java Indonesia.

After summiting the crater, the tour guides will drop you off at your accommodation to shower and refresh, grab some breakfast (since it’s still breakfast time), and then you’ll head off to your next destination.

Looking for more Mount Bromo Tour options?

READ: How to Choose the Best Mount Bromo Tour for You + My Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions: Mount Bromo

Most certainly yes, this is definitely nothing like a true hike or scaling a mountain . It’s literally just walking across some sand and then up some stairs , It’s not even a full day trip you only need half the day to view sunrise and climb up to the crater rim.  

I would not consider Mount Bromo to be dangerous. There is no technical climbing involved. I would suggest you keep up to date with the volcanic activity leading up to your trip. This can be monitored at the Volcano Discovery website

I would recommend staying in Cemoro Lawang, Probolinggo, Java Indonesia. The reason for this is because you’ll be closest to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park entrance, so you will be one of the firsts to get to the sunrise viewpoint. These are my recommended accommodations in Probolinggo East Java Indonesia: Hotel Jiwa Java , Hotel Java Banana Bromo Resort , Cemara Indah , Cafe Lava Hostel,

TOUR FROM BALI

Private 3 Day 2 night Tour From Bali: Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu

🚗Private air-conditioned transport

💦Local guide and entrance fees at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

🚶‍♂️Local trekking guide at Mount Ijen

🎟️Entrance fee for Mount Bromo and Ijen

🛌 Accommodation 1 night in Cemoro Lawang, Hotel 1 night in Bondowoso

➡️CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY for 3D2N Bromo, Ijen and Tumpak Sewu Tour FROM BALI

🚘 GETTING FROM BROMO TO TUMPAK SEWU WATERFALL:  

After taking in the breathtaking beauty of Bromo Mountain Indonesia, you’ll wonder if it can get any better. It will and does.

The drive through Bromo Tengger Semeru National is stunning. As mentioned we did this through a tour company making it a literally effortless trip.

Day 6: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Goa Tetes Waterfall, Kapas Biru Waterfall

As you can see Java has no shortage of natural beauty. Possibly the most famous East Java waterfall is Tumpak Sewu Waterfall  Indonesia, but just in its immediate vicinity is Goa Tetes waterfall, and a few kilometres away you’ll find Kapas Biru Waterfall.

Tumpak Sewu is an incredible mammoth 120 m tall waterfall in an amphitheatre-style rockface cascading down into the gauge. It’s beautiful to see from two viewpoints.

Want to learn more about this incredible adventure to the waterfall East Java holds? READ: Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls in East Java

The panoramic view is easily accessible and only a few metres from the entrance, then you descend into the gorge which is a bit more of a treacherous journey. The path involves walking down some make-shift mud stairs and handrails made of not-very-sturdy bamboo  so I’d strongly suggest you wear some grip sandals or aqua boots.

When you do reach the bottom it’s a great scene and there is a constant mist in the air which creates a simply magical atmosphere. This is truly one of my favourite East Java Indonesia waterfalls.

Just left to the turn of reaching the gorge of Tumpak Sewu waterfall East Java Indonesia is the short path to Goa Tetes waterfall. It’s a lovely bonus and even more so because you can stand under these smaller gushing falls which is incredibly refreshing!

Just another 5.5 km away is a third beautiful waterfall called Kapas Biru. It’s also not the easiest path to walk through to get to but if you have a bit of extra time, it’s worth a visit. 

These waterfalls are high up on our list of East Java destinations which truly proves that the Indonesian Island East of Java has a lot on offer.

Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater

Another of the highly recommended things to do in East Java is Kawah Ijen Crater . It’s certainly one of my East Java highlights. We arrived in Bondowoso at 17:00 and left for Kawah Ijen Crater at 23:30 that same evening.

Why those crazy arrival and departure times?

Well for many visiting this unique destination, you have to be up at the crater edge at a particular time (the early dark hours of the morning before dawn) to view the infamous Ijen East Java blue fire flames.

RELATED READ: East Java trip to Mount Ijen Crater Volcano with blue fire guide

Kawah Ijen East Java Indonesia is literally one of the few places in the entire world where you’ll be able to see this phenomenon. So when I say this is once in a lifetim e, I mean it! T here is a very small likelihood that you will see this in your lifetime.

The ascent again, one wouldn’t typically term a hike , but a very steep dark walk. It pretty much is paved the entire way up, but you really don’t realize how steep it is when you’re walking in the dark. I consider myself relatively fit and I was quite happy to stop a good few times to catch my breath whilst walking up to Kawah Ijen Volcano java Indonesia.

When you reach the top, it’s still pitch dark and that’s when it’s time to see the blue flames. The flames are produced due to the gases produced from the sulfur catching alight means that there is no guarantee that on your trip you will get to see it unfortunately and it will also never be consistent on what the size of the flames will be at Mt Ijen East Java

We did manage to see some flames but they were small . It was still incredible, but gosh it was quite windy up there, and it is icy cold. Then there is the wait till sunrise, but you’ll find a number of guides that make small campfires in and around the crater rim (although you don’t realise where the crater is because it’s still pitch dark).

I clung to the campfires as if my life depended on it, I had to be peeled away to go to the sunrise cliff face to actually watch it. But on that point, when the light starts to uncover the surroundings, your jaw will drop .

Throughout the darkness, you literally have no idea what has been behind you the entire time. A monumental turquoise sulfuric lake. It is an overwhelming presence once you see it! It’s also the largest sulfuric lake in the world – should you need more convincing on why you need to visit. This definitely needs to be on the list of places to visit in East Java.

FAQ: Kawah Ijen Crater

This totally depends on you or your tour company. I did not mind staying in Bondowoso, but only realised after that Banyuwangi was slightly closer which means I could’ve slept a bit longer. Either option still involves waking up extremely early.    

Most definitely yes! It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the blue fire. 

This makes the most sense logistically because it’s the closest destination in East Java to Bali. There are also plenty of tours that start from Bali and explore East Java with the first stop being Kawah Ijen.

I don’t think you need to be a regular gym-goer to visit Kawah Ijen. The walk up to the crater rim is very steep, but you can do this at your own pace and the surface is paved and clear. 

There are options to stay in Banyuwangi or Bondowoso. These are my recommended accommodation options for Kawah Ijen: Ijen View Hotel , Ijen Resort and Villas Banyuwangi , Ijen Cliff Resort , Grand Padis Hotel , Mi Casa Guesthouse Banyuwangi

Now if you want to stop here, the above is a great 1 week East Java itinerary. However, there are still plenty of East Java points of interest that I haven’t mentioned.

There are plenty more East Java tourist attractions as well as some undiscovered gems.

GETTING BACK TO SURABAYA: From Kawah Ijen , you can drive back to Surabaya and take a train or flight back to Jakarta/Bali and back to your home. The other option which is fairly popular is to take a ferry at Ketapang port to Bali to start your island-hopping journey.

RELATED READ: The Ultimate 2021 Bali Bucket List

If you want to continue seeing what East Java has to offer whilst you make your way back to Malang or Surabaya let’s add a couple more days so you check out some other highlights below:

East Java Bonus Destinations

Pulau merah (red island beach).

Not as well known as the other attractions in East Java, but definitely a photo-worthy moment. The sand has a pinkish-red hue to it, similar to what you would see on Pink Beach in Komodo Islands National Park.

It’s a great place to relax on the beach, but also has the option to stay overnight. It’s a very good surfing destination (so I’m told) . The beach can be reached by car or motorbike from Banyuwangi and is approximately 60 km away.

Tanjung Papuma (Papuma Beach)

This is a gorgeous little gem tucked in on the southern coastlines of East Java. What makes this beautiful beach worth a visit is its iconic islets. The waters are a stunning crystal blue which reminded me of the Philippines along with the beautiful colourful boats littered along the shores waiting to eagerly take you o ut and about among the rocky islets.

It’s a popular beach and does not lend itself to much privacy but the backdrop is wonderful for laying on the beach enjoying a festive atmosphere with plenty of stalls and restaurants to cater to patrons.

Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

Another waterfall? Could one ever tire of these? NEVER!

Honestly, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to these as far as Indonesian attractions are concerned. The name loosely translates as rainbow mist waterfall. The trek to the waterfall is not as easily marked and distinct as that for Madakaripura and Tumpak Sewu.

It’s not technically difficult either but may take some time to reach the main waterfall, as you will pass smaller ones before you get there, but don’t be fooled, you need to trek on ! Extremely photogenic and a must if you have a few more days to play with in Java

Jordipan Colourful Rainbow Village

As far as Instagram is concerned, this is truly picture perfect! If you’re in East Java Malang you need to make sure you check out this stunning gem within the city which bursts with literally all the colours of the rainbow.

This area of Malang is what was once a ‘slum area’ but a group of students took on an assignment to bring the village back to life through colour. Their efforts were incredibly successful in turning this village into a bustling tourist attraction for locals and foreigners alike!

The village is divided into two sections separated by a river, it costs ONLY IDR 3000 to enter (approximately 0.21 USD) to enter either side. On the other side of the river is the Blue Village (a village completely painted all blue) called Kampung Biru Arema.

TRAVELIST TIP: Some of the other places not listed in the 1 week East Java Itinerary could possibly be added in during the one week but it would be a push . It would involve literally no rest and this itinerary already is quite packed. I’d strongly suggest rather visiting these other places on your way back from Kawah Ijen to Malang or Surabaya East Java Indonesia. If you are headed to Bali after Kawah Ijen, then you may need to re-think the order of your activities.

Discuss with a tour guide and driver because the locals know their lands and roads best and will offer you the best solution to make sure you get to see all these attractions in Indonesia’s East Java.

East Java itinerary FAQ

I recommend visiting just out of the rainy season which is the end of April beginning of May. Indonesia has two seasons Wet season from November to mid-April and Dry season from End of April to November.

Surabaya, Malang, Probolinggo, Bondowoso, Banyuwangi, Jember and Lumajang. The major cities are Surabaya and Malang with airports and more train option s.   

Indonesia has 3 time zones. East java time is the same as Jakarta (GMT+7).  

Day 1: Jakarta Day 2-4: Yogyakarta Day 5: Madakaripura Waterfall and Jordipan Village Day 6: Mount Bromo Day 7: Tumpak Sewu , Goa Tetes, Kapas Biru Day 8: Kawah Ijen crater Day 9: Red Island Banyuwangi Day 10: Tanjung Papuma Beach

Bali is sometimes the destination where travellers are starting instead of Jakarta. I would then opt to do the above list in reverse order by starting with Kawah Ijen and ending with Yogyakarta. If not, you can get to Yogyakarta from Bali in two ways. Option 1: Fly from Bali to Yogyakarta Option 2: Bali to Yogyakarta train journey . This will involve a ferry and train option . In Bali head to Gilimanuk Port, Take the Ferry to Ketapang, the train station is a short walk away, then take the train to Banyuwangi station. From here you can head to Mount Ijen with a tour company or head to Yogyakarta by train which is a 12-hour journey.

It’s a hard no, from me. However, if you’re short on time the Indonesia Travel Itinerary 1 week East Java option is a good one for a diversity of sights. Unfortunately, It’s pretty much impossible to cram all of Indonesia into one week . There are over 17 000+ islands that make up the country so you’d need months to see the whole of Indonesia . In one week you can probably just visit East Java or Bali and Nusa Islands .

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in the article have affiliate links,  what this means is , if you click a link and make a purchase; I may earn some money to buy a coffee  (woohoo!) . Thanks for the support, I’d love to keep making this content freely available to all. As always opinions and thoughts remain my own.

ARE YOU INSPIRED BY THIS EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE ?

Excited to visit East Java or have you visited already? I’d love to hear from you. Any places you think should be added to the list? Comment in the section below!

2 thoughts on “Wonderful 1 Week East Java Itinerary: Temples, Volcanoes and Waterfalls”

Found this very useful! Do you think I can drive to these places myself and do I need a tour guide for each place? If so how do I go about getting one (without pre booking online) is it easy just showing up and getting a local guide? Thanks so much

Hi Keaton! So glad that you found the article useful 🙂 I’d certainly say for the waterfalls getting a guide on-site is pretty easy (literally can request at the ticket office). For the Mout Bromo and KAwah Ijen, I would probably suggest getting hold of someone in the city the night before (maybe by asking at the local hotel etc.) I think its a bit trickier for those hikes as they happen super early in the morning so best to have someone prepared to meet you either at your hotel or at the entrance. Hope that helps?

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15 Awesome Things To Do In East Java, Indonesia

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: December 2, 2023

Categories INDONESIA

East Java is a land unlike no other. Most regions boast one or two-star attractions but what I found on my road trip is that each day just kept getting better. The next waterfall just got bigger and bigger and the volcanoes became more and more impressive. After 10 days exploring East Java by car, I was blown away.

• I created an interactive map that shows you all the spots in this guide and also includes where to stay, time between each spot and loads of helpful information. It took me a long time to make so I hope it helps you plan your trip. If you want to check it out it is available for download here: East Java Interactive Road Trip Map

Table of Contents

EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE

In this guide, I will share with you a list of the best things to do in East Java, Indonesia. I’ll also share with you a suggested itinerary and some helpful tips for your visit to the region.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN EAST JAVA

• Surabaya: Bumi Surabaya Resort – Perfect oasis in the middle of Surabaya
• Near Bromo: Royal Orchids Hotel – Huge hotel with classy rooms and pool
• Near Ijen: Ijen Resort & Villas – Amazing garden, pool and views

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO EXPLORE EAST JAVA

We spent 10 days exploring all of the best things to do in East Java and even with our level of intensity, we didn’t come close to visiting all the spots we wanted to. I know not everyone has the same desire to see every inch of the destination as myself so with that in mind, I would recommend 7-10 days for the regular traveler. For the traveler who likes to spend two nights in a place cause they like to do it a bit more relaxed, you won’t be bored with 2 weeks.

7 days is the minimum in my book. Anything less than that and you will be visiting only the common, popular destinations. I call those surface scraper trips and while they are fun, you get some great photos, you kind of miss the point of the adventure sometimes. 7-10 days minimum and you will be golden for the trip of a lifetime! Trust me.

If you don’t trust me I have created the entire itinerary below so you can see that you will waste no second and even with 10 days you will be tired the entire time as East Java kicks your ass but wow she is beautiful so it is damn worth it!

THINGS TO DO IN EAST JAVA

Let’s get into these epic places to visit in East Java. These are all the nature-based, adventurous spots, but East Java does have a lot of interesting mosques and points of interest in the cities if that is your cup of tea. On this blog, I stick to outdoor adventures for the most part.

I’m going to put these in the order we visited them to help you plan your trip. I will also post my itinerary below (map provided). We, of course, missed out on several spots like hiking Semeru (often closed due to volcanic activity) and other awesome East Java activities but you can’t do it all and there is always next time! Most of the places on the list below have an individual blog post with more details and photos so you can click on the link to read those if you need. So here we go…

JODIPAN VILLAGE (THE COLORFUL VILLAGE & THE BLUE VILLAGE)

Only twenty minutes from Malang is a curious village called Kampung Warna-Warni Jodipan. This village was struggling. It was dilapidated, polluted, and struggling to build a healthy community. Eight students from a nearby university, who were studying event management, decided to apply their knowledge to a real-world situation.

Partnering with a local paint company, the students created a social responsibility project. 6,000 pounds of colorful paint was donated and the run-down city was transformed into a colorful village with a bright future.

The village now has a small entrance fee for tourists (only 30 US cents) and the colors have brought in much-needed interest and financing for a village that needed a boost. Tourists will often buy a drink, lunch, or souvenirs from the locals. The standard of living has risen and has inspired members of the community to continue improving the village with projects like improving sanitation and pollution.

One on side of the bridge is the ‘Colorful village’ and on the other side is an entirely blue village (Kampung Biru Arema). In a similar fashion, this village has been painted entirely blue.

COBAN TALUN WATERFALL

Coban Talun is a beautiful waterfall in Batu City near Malang in East Java. It’s only a 20-minute walk along a sandy trail before you can enjoy the stunning waterfall, viewpoints, and caves. As well as the waterfall there is a camping ground and a specialized photography/hangout area with photo perches, wings, and other cool photo opportunities.

Once we reached the bottom of the falls, there were a number of huts set up but it seemed they were only used in high season. We had the whole place to ourselves at 9 am in the morning.

There are several cool rocks, which make great spots to take photos but our favorite area was down at ground level in the pool of water. It was freezing but incredible to watch the water trickling down the waves. You can also explore inside the caves behind the waterfall.

Definitely try and visit this waterfall in the rainy season. It was still cool during the dry season but would be 10x more epic with a huge flow of water crashing down!

Need more information? Full blog post: Coban Talun Waterfall

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TUMPAK SEWU WATERFALL

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (also known as Coban Sewu) is arguably Indonesia’s best waterfall. It isn’t the largest, even in East Java, but is definitely the most impressive. From above it looks like the tree of life, from below it is immensely powerful and from all angles, it is quite simply mind-blowing.

The first thing you want to do on your Tumpak Sewu Waterfall adventure from Lumajang is to wake up early. Be at the Tumpak Sewu viewpoint for sunrise. Although the sun won’t be on the waterfall, this is actually what you want.

The fog is beautiful in the morning and creates a mystical atmosphere. In the background, Semeru Volcano will be giving you a beautiful backdrop, while Tumpak Sewu slowly comes into focus as the light increases.

Get down to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall on ground level before the sun rises over the waterfall. The trail is right next to the viewpoint where you were for sunrise. It takes about 10-15 minutes to walk down into the canyon and then about another 5 minutes to walk through the canyon to the waterfall.

The trail down is pretty sketchy with bamboo ladders and sections where you are walking through small streams but it is nothing too crazy. Just be prepared and definitely wear shoes, not flip-flops.

Once you reach the canyon you start to get an idea of the scale of the walls. You are an ant within the gorge and you know you are about to witness something incredible. After turning the final corner you will never forget the moment you enter the cauldron at the foot of Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It is pure magic with more than thirty different waterfalls plummeting down into the cauldron into tiny pools below.

Need more information? Full blog post: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in Lumajang

GOA TETES WATERFALL

Goa Tetes Waterfall in Lumajang was one of the most surprising places on our ten-day travels throughout East Java. We came to visit Tumpak Sewu, the famous waterfall nearby, and were recommended to stop past Goa Tetes Waterfall on the way back. It was an incredible sight in its own right with unbelievable caves inside the waterfall. It was the most unique waterfall we visited in all of East Java!

Goa Tetes is essentially a collection of caves and waterfalls all the way up the cliff. You walk up the stream until you reach the caves. From here the adventure is up to you with so many different caves to explore. We scaled one cave in particular and it went really far back into darkness, while the waterfall poured down over the top of us. Absolutely incredible!

Need more information? Full blog post: Goa Tetes Waterfall in Lumajang

KABUT PELANGI WATERFALL

Kabut Pelangi was one of my favorite waterfalls in East Java. The waterfall crashes down into the amphitheater below, which is covered in lush green plants. The trek down to Kabut Pelangi takes about 25 minutes in total. The trail is paved a lot of the way and when it’s not the conditions aren’t very difficult.

The 100m+ Kabut Pelangi is an incredible sight. The force it generates when it hits the pool below is incredible and this is definitely not a place you want to go swimming! Kabut Pelangi translates to waterfall rainbow mist. If you catch the conditions at the right time you will be able to see a rainbow in the mist at the bottom of the waterfall!

Need more information? Full blog post: Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

KAPAS BIRU WATERFALL

Kapas Biru Waterfall is amazing. One huge, thundering stream of water crashes down from what seems like 100m. The pool at the bottom of the waterfall is smashed with the force of the crashing water. It then streams down the river, which has scattered rocks and plants throughout making it a beautiful lead up to the waterfall.

Need more information? Full blog post: Kapas Biru Waterfall

What are my favorite pieces of travel gear?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never travel without. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my travel essentials.

• Packing Cube Set : Once you cube you’ll never go back. Organize your clothes within your luggage with these smart mesh containers. It will revolutionize your packing.
• Quick-Dry Towel : A quick-dry towel is a must for travelers. It hardly takes up any room and dries in seconds.
• Travel Wallet : Keep your passport, wallet, and vaccine card safe as well as any forms and important documents you need to store.
• Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

COBAN SRITI WATERFALL

From Kapas Biru, it takes about 20 minutes of scrambling across rocks and river crossings to reach Coban Sriti Waterfall. Two huge streams of water plummet down at least 100 meters onto the huge rocks below. The rocks below must have cracked off the cliff at some stage as they are the size of houses!

At the base of this waterfall, it is incredibly slippery and cold! We hung out here and took photos for a while. It was about 9 am when we arrived and the lighting was quite harsh. I would suggest arriving here just after sunrise or later on in the afternoon but during the harsh sun, it was not easy at all to take photos due to the difference in shadows and light areas.

My favorite part of this area was the huge cauldron. The walls of the cliffs are completely smooth and they seem to encapsulate you as you enjoy the waterfall.

Need more information? Full blog post: Coban Sriti Waterfall

PAPUMA BEACH

Papuma Beach is a white sand beach with amazing crystal clear blue water! We had no idea it would be so popular. We had to pay 45,000 rupiah, which is only about $3.50 USD but one of the more expensive tickets we paid throughout our time in East Java.

The beach itself is beautiful. It has those crystal clear waters and white sand combinations that people dream of on vacations. Colorful boats line the beach, waiting to take tourists on a voyage around the nearby rocky islets.

The rocky islets make a great backdrop for a fun day of hanging out in the sun with that refreshing blue water waiting there for you all day! It is a popular spot with a huge parking lot and multiple restaurants. It is not for people looking to have a private beach type of experience. It would be perfect for a family who prioritizes facilities, restaurants, and ease of access over the adventure.

Need more information? Full blog post: Papuma Beach 

PAYANGAN BEACH & VIEWPOINT

Payangan Beach is a pretty unique black sand beach. There are several hill viewpoints here such as Teluk Love and Bukit Domba. We decided to climb up Bukit Domba, which was right next to the black sand beach.

The entry was $1 USD and it was a bit full on with huts and paths everywhere. It wasn’t very natural at all but still cool to get up there for a good view of the region.

There are lots of spot for photos out over the beach and huts to relax in. It seemed to be a hotspot for local couples to hang out and chat in the huts. After climbing up the viewpoint in the hot sun, we headed back to refresh in the waters on the black sand beach.

Don’t go out of your way to visit Payangan in my opinion, but if you go to Papuma it is only five minutes away so it’s worth an hour extra of your day. Also, I should mention that it will look much nicer with green hills in the rainy season but we visited in the dry season so the hills look brown and dead.

Need more information? Full blog post: Payangan Beach and viewpoint

PULAU MERAH AT RED ISLAND

Pulau Merah was a beautiful spot. In fact, it was probably one of my favorite sunset spots in all of East Java. There is a huge rocky island out in the ocean, almost like Cannon Beach in Oregon. The water is warm, and the waves are good enough to surf.

After a long driving day, we really enjoyed watching the sun go down over the layered mountains in the distance. The reflections on the sand from the receding water made for some special photos. The photos below are from sunset and sunrise as we decided to stay the night at Red Island/Pulau Merah.

CYPRESS TREE TUNNEL: JAWATA BENCULUK

Jawata Benculuk as it is known in Bahasa is an epic collection of Cypress Trees just out of Genteng Town. The spot has become increasingly popular and now there are many treehouses and other interesting structures built in the area. The tree tunnels are one of the most unique things to visit in East Java.

The cypress trees are phenomenal. Vines hang from all of the twisted branches. In a moody fog they look straight out of a horror film and when the sun shines through it looks like a magical forest. There is no bad weather to visit this forest.

Need more information? Full blog post: Cypress Tree Tunnel: Jawata Benculuk

HIKE IJEN CRATER

Waking up in the middle of the night and trekking up and then inside a crater sound enticing? Add a gas mask and walk into a cloud of sulfur gas while watching blue flames. Enticed yet? You should be. Ijen Crater is one of the most epic adventures in East Java.

The best, guided tour that is reliable and can be booked in advance is this one: GUIDED SUNRISE MOUNT IJEN CRATER HIKE

Guided Ijen Sunrise Hike

• Includes Transfers
• Includes Gas Mask
• Guide is helpful in the night

Sulfur mining has been underway at Ijen Crater since 1968. The combustion of sulfuric gases creates a blue glow, which has become famous as the ‘blue flame of Ijen Crater. I’m sorry but I didn’t fancy coughing on sulfur for 20 minutes to shoot a long exposure of the blue flame. To be honest it is something best enjoyed with the eye.. for 2 minutes then get the hell out!

After the blue flame expedition, you head on further up and around the crater rim to the ‘sunrise spot’ to complete the adventure.

Need more information? Full blog post: Hiking Ijen Crater

ISLAND HOPPING: TABUHAN AND MENJANGAN ISLAND

The Banyuwangi region of East Java is home to some of the best beaches Java has to offer. I did an island hopping tour to three locations with Bangsring Underwater tours. We visited Tabuhan Island, Menjangan Island and Rumah Apung.

Menjangan Island is actually accessible quite easily from West Bali National Park. We could have swum over to Bali from Menjangan Island, which was pretty cool. The island is 3,800Ha and it’s Savannah terrain is home to unique Javan Rusa deer known as ‘Menjangan’, which is how the island received its name.

There are a couple of beaches on Menjangan with white sand and clear water. There are many great spots to relax on this tropical island and with warm crystal clear water it is perfect.

However, the best activities are in the water. The snorkeling and diving at Menjangan Island are great! Corl gardens and extensive marine life make it a perfect spot for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Tabuhan Island was my favorite part of the whole trip. This island was completely empty except for us. The water was incredible. It looked like drinking water it was so clear with the sun making beautiful patterns on the sand beneath the surface.

Tabuhan is only 5 hectares large but as you can see the reef below the surface is actually quite large in itself. In just fifteen minutes you can circle the entire island.

Need more information? Full blog post: Tabuhan Island & Menjangan Island Boat Tour

 MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL

Madakaripura Waterfall or Air Terjun Madakaripura as it is known locally is one of the most spectacular waterfalls not only in East Java and Indonesia but also in the world.

The first part of Madakaripura Waterfall is actually just the lead-up to the main waterfall but it is equally impressive. Water streams down the lush green walls into the river below. For most of the way you can walk through the river without getting wet but there are some points you have to pass through the falling water. This is truly one of the most magical spots I have ever been.

• MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE & MADARAKIPURA WATERFALL TOUR : For a little bit extra, combine the Mount Bromo Sunrise with a visit to the best waterfall in East Java.

The main waterfall crashes down into a pool that is a vivid turquoise color. The waterfall is inside a narrow keyhole amphitheater. About 80m in length and 30m in width this is a small area. When you look up you can see the leafy walls curving around you, which is an amazing feeling.

Need more information? Full blog post:  Madakaripura Waterfall

KING KONG HILL SUNRISE VIEWPOINT OF MOUNT BROMO

After freezing our butts off driving the mopes for 2 hours, we reached King Kong Hill for sunrise. Well not quite, we made it to a hill nearby. King Kong Hill is super packed but there are tons of different viewpoints nearby. The viewpoints all look out over the ‘Sea of Sand’.

Inside this sea of sand are five volcanoes, one of which is Mount Bromo. The ridges on the volcanoes are just insane and I promise you this is one of the most epic landscapes you will ever witness at sunrise in your life!

As you can see this blog makes it clear you don’t NEED a guided tour but it makes it much easier and potentially more organized and enjoyable with a guide who knows all the spots and timings to make sure you enjoy your Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour. There are two tours I recommend, which both have almost 1000 positive reviews. Here they are:

• BEST VALUE MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE TOUR : For just $25 this tour includes hotel pick-up, jeep drive to Mount Bromo, watching the sunrise, do the small hike up the volcano and then drop off at the hotel. Everything you need!

Need more information? Full blog post: Mount Bromo without a tour

HIKE UP MOUNT BROMO

Mount Bromo is one of the most incredible volcanoes in the world. It just so happens to be surrounded by several other volcanoes in one of the most magnificent landscapes you will ever set eyes on.

Mount Bromo (known as Gunung Bromo in the local language of Bahasa) is an active volcano. It is part of the Tengger Massif region in East Java, Indonesia, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in all of East Java and even Java itself.

The volcano is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. If you are wondering what the term ‘Bromo’ means you are correct if you guessed it held some great significance. It is derived from the Javanese pronunciation of ‘Brahma, which is the Hindu creator god.

It’s really an epic half-day adventure. After the sunrise at King Kong Hill, you go hang out in the ‘Sea of Sand’ on your motorbike or in your tour jeep. Finally, you hike up Mount Bromo to the summit where you will see an astounding crater that literally looks like hell on earth as it bubbles with sulfur at the bottom of the massive pit.

EAST JAVA ITINERARY

• Arrive Surabaya
• Drive to Malang
• Stay the night in Malang
• Sunrise at Jodipan colorful village and blue village
• Coban Talun Waterfall
• Drive to Lumajang
• Stay the night in Lumajang
• Tumpak Sewu panoramic viewpoint for sunrise
• Tumpak Sewu short hike to the base of the waterfall
• Goa Tetes Waterfall
• Kabut Pelangi Waterfall
• Coban Sriti Waterfall
• Kapas Biru Waterfall

Day 5: 

• Drive to Papuma Beach
• Papuma Beach
• Payangan Beach and viewpoint
• Drive to Red Island (Pulau Merah)
• Sunset at Pulau Merah
• Stay the night at Red Island
• Green Bay Beach (costs $15 we arrived and left due to the fee, it did look nice though)
• Drive to Banyuwangi
• Visit the Cypress tree tunnel: Jawata Benculuk
• Visit Pantai Boom for sunset
• Stay the night in Banyuwangi town (sleep from 8-midnight then leave for Ijen)
• At midnight head to Ijen Crater
• Hike Ijen Crater
• Drive to Watudodol
• Stay the night in Watudodol
• Island hopping to Tabuhan Island and Menjangan Island
• Drive to Probollingo
• Stay the night in Probollingo
• Visit Madakaripura Waterfall
• Other waterfalls in the area if you have any energy left by this point!
• Prepare for Bromo
• Leave Probollingo at 2 am and drive to Bromo
• King Kong Hill for sunrise
• Hike to Bromo summit
• Drive back to Probollingo
• Drive back to Surabaya

Most epic Indonesian road trip ever is complete!

OUR EAST JAVA MAP ( ITINERARY)

I’ve created the map below to show you how the journey will look. We received a lot of local advice on our route and everything was done for a specific reason. I’m sure there are many ways to do things but I know it is great to visualize the journey first and then you can pick and choose which things you definitely want to do and work that into your time frame. As you can see on the map, it begins in Surabaya and then follows the itinerary I’ve written out above.

MOTORBIKE OR CAR FOR EAST JAVA ROAD TRIP

Before arriving in East Java, I could never have imagined wanting to rent a car in Southeast Asia. I mean to be fair the roads are mayhem and only locals who have grown up navigating the craziness can usually handle the traffic and the maneuvers required to survive the drive. However, I had a tip-off from a friend that a car would be beneficial for our trip given the long distances between key attractions. This isn’t Bali by any means.

We decided to rent a car and found some numbers online once we landed in Surabaya. There was no easy way to rent a car online or a registered shop that we found at that time.

Within an hour of waiting at a cafe, we had a company drive a car down to us. We negotiated 300,000 rupiahs per day for a very new, white SUV. That came out to about 20 USD. Split between the two of us we were paying $10 a day for transport.

In our 10 day journey, we filled up the gas 3 times (like I said a lot of driving), which cost us $25 USD each time. So, let’s say about $15 per day each for gas and transport for the entire trip!

A motorbike or moped would cost anywhere from $6-10 a day depending on your negotiation skills and availability. Gas is a few dollars per tank.

So why the car? There were often drives of 6 hours. For example from Tumpak Sewu to Ijen crater you are looking at a six-hour journey. We didn’t even make that journey we stopped halfway and it was still a mammoth drive. You need to focus every second as cars tend to drive on the wrong side of the directly at you, forget they have the ability to indicate and try and overtake you in gaps that they create!

We felt much safer in the car and were much more comfortable in the piercing heat. It made it easy to navigate as my passenger, Nic, assumed that role for the trip and we actually did a lot of planning and research in the car on the way to destinations. It also meant we didn’t have to unpack and pack everything we owned every time we moved.

The last huge bonus was storing things. When we did a hike or visited a waterfall, we simply took our camera backpacks and left everything else scattered in the car. I love moped and motorbike adventures don’t get me wrong and usually, I would snub the car.

However, for East Java, if you plan to cover it all, I would highly recommend the car. If you are solo it is a toss-up as the car may be a bit pricey.

Sidenote: we rented a moped for one day because we thought it would be fun to whip around at Mount Bromo. We weren’t wrong.

I hope you enjoyed this East Java Travel Guide and have a great trip!

MORE EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDES

• The Ultimate Guide: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN EAST JAVA
• Mount Bromo without a guide:   MOUNT BROMO WITHOUT A TOUR
• Ijen Crater Trek:   IJEN CRATER TREK AND THE BLUE FLAME
• Madakaripura Waterfall:   MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
• Island hopping in East Java:   TABUHAN ISLAND & MENJANGAN ISLAND
• East Java Beaches:   PAPUMA BEACH AND PAYANGAN BEACH

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING IN EAST JAVA

Traveling in East Java, Indonesia offers a wealth of diverse landscapes, cultural attractions, and adventure opportunities. Here are some things to know before you visit:

• Location and Access: East Java is located in the eastern part of Java Island, Indonesia. It is accessible through Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, the capital city of East Java. Surabaya is well-connected to major cities in Indonesia and international destinations.
• Mount Bromo : East Java is famous for Mount Bromo, an active volcano and one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Mount Penanjakan and explore the otherworldly landscape of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.
• Cultural Heritage: East Java is rich in cultural heritage. The city of Surabaya has historical sites such as the House of Sampoerna, a museum showcasing Indonesia’s clove cigarette industry, and the Heroes Monument, a symbol of Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
• Javanese Traditions: East Java is home to Javanese culture, and you can experience traditional dances, music, and batik fabric production. Explore the ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples of Singosari and Trowulan, which reflect the region’s historical significance.
• City of Malang: Malang is a charming city in East Java known for its colonial-era architecture, cool climate, and vibrant culinary scene. The city offers attractions like Jatim Park, Batu Night Spectacular, and the beautiful flower gardens of Selecta.
• Surabaya Culinary Delights: Surabaya is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like rawon (a beef soup), lontong balap (a dish with rice cakes, bean sprouts, and tofu), and rujak cingur (a salad with cow snout). Explore the lively local markets for authentic culinary experiences.
• Madura Island: East Java includes Madura Island, famous for its distinct culture and culinary specialties like sate Madura (Madurese satay). You can cross the Suramadu Bridge, one of Indonesia’s longest bridges, to visit this island and explore its unique traditions.
• Waterfalls and Nature Treks: East Java offers stunning waterfalls such as Coban Rondo, Madakaripura, and Tumpak Sewu. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy trekking in the Ijen Crater to witness the mesmerizing blue flames and sulfur mining activities.
• Beaches and Islands: East Java boasts beautiful beaches and islands. Visit the pristine white sand beaches of Pulau Sempu, Red Island (Pulau Merah), or explore the underwater world while snorkeling or diving around the Karimunjawa Islands.
• Transportation: Public transportation in East Java mainly consists of buses, trains, and taxis. Renting a car or motorbike provides more flexibility for exploring remote areas. It is advisable to plan your routes in advance and check local transportation schedules.

Remember to respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and carry a phrasebook or translation app as English may not be widely spoken in some areas. Enjoy your trip to East Java and immerse yourself in its captivating culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality!

Monday 5th of February 2024

Wow!! Thank you so much. This is so helpful!!

Luzian Jung

Wednesday 23rd of August 2023

Hi thanks fir the useful insight! Where did you rent the car, or do you have a contact or something like this? Would be very grateful! All the Best Luzian

Marilyn CASSOUS

Thursday 17th of August 2023

Great article and very useful. Very beautiful pictures. Thank you

Friday 23rd of June 2023

This is an excellent article! I'm excited to revisit Surabaya and delve deeper into its wonders. My previous experience in 2015 was truly unforgettable, spending two weeks exploring Jombang, Kertosono, Mojokerto, and other charming towns. The Viyana Hotel in Jombang was absolutely fantastic! Even though Surabaya may not have been widely known at the time, there are still incredible attractions and mouthwatering cuisine to savor. On a separate note, if you're located in the UK and planning a trip to Latvia, we're a trusted visa provider based in London. Feel free to reach out to us for all your Latvia visa requirements!

josh williamson

Thursday 22nd of June 2023

Great article! Can't wait to revisit and explore further. I had an amazing experience in Surabaya back in 2015, staying for two weeks. Explored Jombang, Kertosono, Mojokerto, and other small towns. The Viyana Hotel in Jombang was awesome! Despite not being popular then, there are still incredible sights and delicious food to enjoy. By the way, if you're in the UK and planning to visit Hungary, we're a visa provider in London. Contact us for your Hungary visa needs!

4 Days in East Java – An Awesome East Java Indonesia Itinerary

Four days in East Java, Indonesia is the perfect amount of time to see top attractions and go on epic adventures.  

If you’re eyeing a visit to see active volcanoes and waterfalls, then visiting East Java will offer unique experiences to your Indonesia travels. 

In this post, we’re sharing our 4-day itinerary for East Java and things to do. While you may have tons of attractions that you want to visit, this itinerary focuses on one big attraction per day so it’s easy to follow. Also, it’s to prevent burnout since 2 out of the 4 days require an early morning start. 

Click the links to jump to certain areas on this post. 

• General Indonesia Travel Information
• East Java Overview
• Day 1 Itinerary – Travel Day
• Day 2 Itinerary – Ijen Crater
• Day 3 Itinerary – Mount Bromo
• Day 4 Itinerary – Tumpak Sewu Waterfall & Travel

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

General Travel Information & Tips for East Java, Indonesia

Indonesia visa requirements.

Please check the latest visa requirements when entering Indonesia .  

When we visited in late August 2022, Indonesia did not require a PCR test or quarantine any more. However, we showed our vaccination cards on arrival. 

Indonesia allows 86 countries to enter with a visa on arrival. The visa is valid for 30 days. Cash is only accepted. The cost is $35 USD or 500,000 IDR per person. 

On our visit, here are other currencies accepted – Singaporean Dollars, Hong Kong Dollars, Euro, Japanese Yen, British Pounds, Saudi Arabia Real, Thailand Bhat, Canadian Dollars, Swiss France, Korean Won, Malaysian Ringgit, and Chinese Yuan. 

Note: We did not see an ATM at the visa on arrival section, so prepare cash ahead of time. 

How Many Days Should You Stay in East Java?

We say a minimum of 4 days is needed for East Java. 

There are many volcanoes and nature areas to explore in East Java, so if you have more than 4 days, then that is even better. We could have easily stayed for a week to visit more of the non-touristy sites.   

You’ll need at least a few days to explore East Java to see the incredible volcanoes, such as Bromo

Should You Take a Tour or DIY for East Java? 

This is up to you and how you prefer to travel. There is no wrong or right way to travel and explore. 

Taking a tour is convenient as everything is done for you from transportation, admission to attractions, accommodations, meals, and guides. Tours tend to cost more than visiting places on your own. 

If you prefer to go at your own pace and handle transportation and accommodations, then it’s best to travel by yourself. We’ll share more information below on transportation options to consider. 

Another option is to do a combination of both such as hiring drivers and taking day tours that are organized by others. 

What Did We Do? 

We went on a tour with Blue Flame Tour and enjoyed our visit with the Blue Flame team. 

We highly recommend their services as everything was scheduled over email (WhatsApp can also be used to contact the team) and organized. The tour included a driver, guide, mineral water, hotel with breakfast, and admission cost to attractions. The tour excluded lunch and dinner, tips, and extra expenses. 

There was no need to transfer money ahead of time as the tour deposit was done on the day of arrival and the second day of the tour. 

We had a fabulous time with the team and wouldn’t hesitate to go on future trips with them again. 

Here is another tour option that you can consider: From Surabaya: Bromo, Ijen, and Tumpak Sewu

Best Time to Visit East Java

The rainy season is from November to March. January tends to have the most rain. 

The dry season is from April to October.  We went in late August to early September.

Since you’re in Southeast Asia, rain can happen at any time, even during the dry season. As long as you have an umbrella on hand and a backup plan of an indoor activity, then you’ll still have a fun time.  

At least the temperatures are consistent all year round between 26 to 30℃ (78 to 86℉). 

How to Get to East Java & Where to Start

East Java has three major spots to start from – Surabaya, Malang, and Banyuwangi.

Surabaya – Surabaya has the main airport is Juanda International Airport (airport code: SUB) and 4 train Stations (Pasarturi, Gubeng, Wonkoromo, and Kota). The main train station hub is Gubeng. 

Malang – Malang’s main train station is the most popular. Other stations are Kepanjen, Lawang, Malang Kotalama, Blimbing, Sumberpucung, and Ngebruk. 

Banyuwangi – This city is the closest to Mount Ijen , so it’s a popular starting point for East Java. Plus, it’s the closest city to Bali island. 

There are three main sources of transportation hubs – Banyuwangi International Airport (airport code: BWX), Ketapang Harbour for the ferry from Bali, and Banyuwangi Ketapang Train (nearby the Ketapang Harbour). Other train stations are Glenmore, Kalibaru, Karangasem, Kalisetail, Banyuwangibaru, Rogojampi, Sumberwandung, Temuguruh, and Banyuwangi Kota.

What We Did

We visited East Java from the West side of Bali. We took the ferry from Gilimanuk Harbour in Bali to Ketapang Ferry Port on Banyuwangi. 

Since it tends to be a popular way to travel, we’re going to share more about how we did this under “Day 1” section. 

Note: There is a 1 hour time difference between East Java and Bali. Remember to set your watch 1 hour back when you arrive. 

How to Travel through East Java

There are several ways to travel around East Java depending on your comfort level. 

• Hiring a driver. If you don’t want to worry about driving and traffic, then hiring a driver is highly recommended. You will need to hire a driver for a few days or whenever you arrive at a new destination. 
• Riding a motorbike. This is an option if you’re comfortable with riding a motorbike. 
• Taking the train. Taking the train is convenient and affordable. It’s perfect for long-distance rides. Check out our post on traveling by train from Surabaya to Yogyakarta . 
• Taking domestic flights. This could be a faster option compared to driving and taking the train, but the cost will be higher. 
• Go on a tour. If you’re on a tour, then transportation will already be included. 
• A combination of all of the above. 

Purchase a SIM Card. 

We suggest purchasing a SIM card at your arrival destination in Indonesia so you can stay in communication with tour guides, drivers, etc. 

While many hotels and guesthouses will have wifi, it can be hit and miss.  

If you’re from the U.S. and looking for an international data plan, consider getting Google Project Fi . Get data access and phone calls in over 200+ countries without having to pay extra. We’ve been on this plan since 2016 and it’s been a lifesaver for our travels. Click here to learn more and get a $20 credit.

East Java Itinerary Overview

Here is an overview of what we did as we started in Bali and then made our way to East Java. 

• Day 1: Travel Day
• Day 2: Visit Ijen Crater for Sunrise
• Day 3: See sunrise at Mount Bromo & Malang Colorful Houses
• Day 4: Explore Tumpak Sewu & Goa Tetes Waterfalls & Travel to Next Destination

Note: You can start either in Surabaya or Malang and work your way east. 

Map of Where to Go in East Java

Click on the map to see a larger view of the driving directions for your East Java travels. Credit: Map data: Google

East Java Itinerary: Day 1 – Travel Day from Bali to Banyuwangi

Depending on where you’re coming from, your first travel day will vary. 

As mentioned earlier, we’re starting in Bali since it’s the main travel hub in Indonesia. After spending 4 days or up to 2 weeks in Bali , it’s time for a change and visit another Indonesian island , Java. 

Everyone will need to hire a driver to get to Gilimanuk Harbour in west Bali . It’s about 3 to 4 hours away from the main areas of Bali – Kuta, Seminyak , and Ubud. 

Here are the driving times: 

• From Kuta: 3 hours 20 minutes 
• From Canggu: 3 hours 
• From Sanur: 3 hours 25 minutes
• From Ubud : 3 hours 10 minutes

We were charged 700,000 IDR ($45 USD) for the one-way drive from Canggu to Gilimanuk. The driver worked for Blue Flame Tour. 

We had a driver who took us around Bali, but opted not to use him for this route. If you’re looking for a driver, please contact us here and we’ll share the details.  

When you’re close to the port, ask the driver to pull over to one of the dozens of kiosks on the side of the road to buy the ferry ticket . The tickets must be purchased online at one of the kiosks. The cost of the ticket is 8,500 IDR ($.55) per person. 

Once you arrive at the port, use the ticket machine to print a physical ticket.  

Find your ferry to Ketapang and a spot to sit, and enjoy the ride. The ferry ride will take 1 hour – 30 minutes for the ride and 30 minutes of waiting for a dock to open.

This is the ferry that we rode from Gilimanuk, Bali to Ketapang, Banyuwangi

Once you arrive at the Ketapang Port, you’ll need to have transportation arranged ahead of time to get to your hotel. 

Afterward, take a rest and grab some dinner. Hope you can sleep for a couple of hours before you start the Ijen tour. 

Where to Stay Around Ijen 

There are plenty of guesthouses to stay around the Banyuwangi Ijen area. Click here to see options on Booking.com or Agoda . 

Our Recommendation: Ketapang Indah Hotel

Ketapang Indah Hotel is a popular place to stay in Banyuwangi. This is a beautiful resort to stay overnight and is close to the Ketapang port. The resort ground is surrounded by luscious greenery, palm trees, and plants so it’s like you’re back on Bali Island. The resort has an on-site restaurant and swimming pool.

The room itself has simple decor and blackout shades so it helps with getting rest before your Ijen trip. 

If you have the chance to try the buffet breakfast, go for it! There is a lot of variety of food from Western to Indonesian cuisine and very delicious. 

Book your stay at Ketapang Indah Hotel on Booking.com or Agoda .

East Java Itinerary: Day 2 – Ijen Crater Sunrise & Bromo Area

Visit ijen crater in the early morning.

On your second day in East Java, you’re off to see the popular Ijen Crater (also known as Kawah Ijen). 

It’ll be an early morning with a start time after midnight, but it’s worth it. 

This crater is famous for the vibrant blue fire that emits due to the intense natural sulfur gas escaping the cracks. It’s only available to see from 2 to 4am before sunrise. 

Tip : You can skip the blue fire if it’s too early and go to Ijen for sunrise or anytime afterward. Ijen is open all day long. 

Here is what Ijen’s Blue Fire looks like.

Along the way, you’ll see many sulfur miners gather over 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of yellow sulfur blocks up and down the mountain. Don’t forget to move out of the way when you see them on the trail. 

After the blue fire, you’ll wait for the beautiful sunrise to appear over the turquoise acidic lake. 

How can you resist seeing this gorgeous Ijen sunrise?!

Ijen is considered one of Indonesia’s top hikes so it’s helpful to have proper hiking shoes or shoes with traction. Everyone, including the miners, follows the same path, so you can’t get lost. Just take your time climbing up and down due to the elevation at 2,769 meters (9,085 feet) and loose gravel. 

You’ll also need to have a gas mask (provided by your tour guide or can rent one at the base) since the sulfur gas is toxic. 

Read about our Ijen hiking experience . 

After Ijen, back to your hotel to eat breakfast and take a shower. You’ll want to wash the sulfur gas and smell off your body.

Head to Mount Bromo Area in the Afternoon

It’s time to head to the next destination – the Mount Bromo area. 

Depending on your itinerary, you can stay either in Malang or Probolinggo. Many people stay in Probolinggo as it’s closer to Mount Bromo. 

The rest of the day is for travel and rest in the afternoon. The following morning is when you’ll visit Bromo and see the active crater and the sea of clouds at sunrise. 

Where to Stay Around Mount Bromo

If you want to stay in Malang , click here to see options on Booking.com or Agoda . 

For accommodations in Probolinggo , click to see options on Booking.com or Agoda . 

Our Recommendation: Bromo Camp House

Located in the forest area of Probolinggo, Bromo Camp House has individual bungalows to spend the night. 

It’s a cute and quiet place to hang out in the afternoon as you get a view of the garden when hanging outside of the bungalow. Or, you can hang out at the cafe near the entrance. 

The room has simple decor and an ensuite bathroom. It’s a pleasant stay for an evening. 

Book a room at Bromo Camp House on Booking.com or Agoda here . 

East Java Itinerary: Day 3 – Mount Bromo & Malang

Visit mount bromo for sunrise.

On the third day in East Java, it’s another early morning to see the sunrise at Mount Bromo (also known as Gunung Bromo). 

Luckily, the start time is not as early as the previous day – around 2:15am. 

Mount Bromo is located within Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and one of the coolest experiences is to take a Jeep to the sunrise point . It’s a bumpy ride going through the National Park, so hold onto any handlebars inside the Jeep. 

One of the popular spots to see the sunrise is King Kong sunrise point . It’s a short 5-minute hike up a hill. It’s dark, so you’ll need to use a flashlight or the light from the smartphone. 

As a heads up, it’s FREEZING at this point so you’ll need to wear a warm jacket or rent a jacket from one of the coffee shops nearby the entrance. 

Once the sunrises, you’ll see the sea of clouds over Mount Bromo, Batok, and Semeru peaks. It’s a stunning sight. 

You’ll need to visit Bromo at sunrise to see the layer of clouds blanket over the volcanoes

After sunrise, you’ll get the chance to take a photoshoot with your colorful Jeep . 

Then, you take the challenge and climb over 200 stairs to see the top of the active Bromo crater . Bromo volcano also releases sulfur gas but the area is wider than Ijen so gas masks are not needed. 

Read more about our Mount Bromo sunrise trip here. 

You’ve accomplished so much already and it’s still morning! Once you’re done, return to your Jeep to go back to the hotel to pack and have breakfast. 

Stop by Malang Rainbow Houses in the Afternoon

The next stop is to head to Malang (unless you’re already based in the city) to see the colorful houses .

As a former slum area, a volunteer group worked with the villages and the community to repaint the area with bright colors. Now it’s a popular and fun tourist spot to explore the villages and take photos. 

Note : There are several villages so you’ll need to pay separate admission fees (5,000 IDR / $.30 per person). 

Read our Malang Colorful Houses post here. 

Head to tumpak sewu waterfall area to rest.

Our final stop for the day is the accommodation close to the Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. You’ll visit the waterfall tomorrow morning. 

Where to Stay Close to Tumpak Sewu

There aren’t too many guesthouses nearby Tumpak Sewu. It’s best to reserve in advance to get a spot, especially during the high season. Click here to see availability on Booking.com. 

Our Recommendation: Yanto Homestay

This homestay is located across from the Tumpak Sewu entrance. It’s a low-key yet clean homestay with individual rooms and an ensuite bathroom. It is a nice place for one night. 

There is an on-site restaurant as there aren’t any other food options in the area. The food is delicious and reasonable (from 20,000-40,000 IDR / $1.30-$2.60 for a meal and drinks). Breakfast is also served here. 

Click here to reserve a stay on Booking.com or Agoda here . 

East Java Itinerary: Day 4 – Tumpak Sewu & Goa Tetes Waterfall & Departure

On your fourth day in East Java, get ready for a waterfall adventure! 

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (also known as Air Terjun Tumpak Sewu or Coban Sewu) is considered one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Indonesia . The waterfall is surrounded by the green jungle area with small cascades covering about half of the area. 

You can see the waterfall from a panoramic viewpoint.  

Or, consider taking the trek down the mountain to see an epic view of the waterfall and take more photos. 

Tip: You may want to hire a guide if you plan to visit the base of Tumpak Sewu. You will cross rushing streams and smaller waterfall cascades so be careful! Hold onto any ropes that you see. 

While you’re in the area, stop by Goa Tetes for smaller and gentler water cascades . You can also go on an adventure and hike the waterfall to visit a secret cave . 

It’s not easy walking on a waterfall with rushing water at your feet. It’s a bit scary since you could easily slip. Just be extremely careful. 

Please ensure that you wear proper water shoes or sandals with traction and heel straps. We lost our flip- flops a few times in the water. 

Read our detailed Tumpak Sewu & Goa Tetes Waterfall day trip here. 

Return to your accommodations to shower and pack. 

Head to your next destination.  

Depending on your schedule, you can either:

• End your trip in Malang, Surabaya, or Banyuwangi
• Continue your journey to see other areas of Java or Indonesia

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed this East Java itinerary filled with adventures and exciting activities. You’ll have plenty of good memories from exploring two volcanoes – Ijen and Bromo, and walking through waterfalls at Tumpak Sewu and Goa Tetes. 

If you’re looking for other places to visit in Indonesia, check out our posts:

• Best Indonesia Islands 
• Visit Komodo National Park for a Day
• Visit Nusa Islands in 4 Days

Have any additional questions on how to spend 4 days in East Java, please ask in the comment section below. 

Like this post? Save it to your Asia Travel Board on Pinterest.

Featured photo & Pin #1 photo credit: Claudio Duarte via Scopio Photos

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

• Published on December 12, 2019
• Last updated on March 3, 2021

We had a fantastic time traveling in East Java, and with this itinerary, we want to share our experiences and tips. Java is an island in Indonesia, and it has so much to offer from volcano hikes to the most impressive waterfalls. Also, the local people are some of the friendliest we have ever met.

How to get to East Java

We came to Java directly after our trip from the Komodo Islands, and we flew to Surabaya Airport and started our East Java Itinerary from there. If you come from home and want to visit, for example, Java and Bali, you can fly to Yogyakarta and travel the opposite around from us, or you can start in Bali. Either way, from Bali to Java, it is possible to come by ferry what we would have preferred, but since we came from our Komodo trip to Java, it wasn’t possible for us. But the ferry would have been much cheaper than a flight.

Visa to enter Indonesia

To visit Java or other places in Indonesia you can easily get a 30 days single entry at the airport without a visa when you arrive in the country. If you want to extend your stay up to 60 days you have to get a Visa On Arrival (VOA) at the airport which is as well valid for a 30 days stay, but can be extended and costs you 37$.

You have to go to the immigration office to extend your visa, which is a bit time consuming and costs you another 35$. If you come to Indonesia from home and know already that you want to stay in the country for 60 days you can get your 60-day visa back home at the Indonesian Embassy in your country and don’t have to go through the extension process.

East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

Day 1-3 sunrise at mount bromo.

You can choose if you want to visit Mount Bromo with a tour or do it by yourself. We decided to do the hike by ourselves, and it was very easy. It was a magical experience to see the sun rising next to the vulcanos and to enjoy the stunning colors.

Mount Bromo sunrise hike – Everything you need to know

Day 3-6 Malang and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

From Bromo, we traveled to Malang, which is about 3 hours ride when you take a jeep who can drive you through the sea of sand. Otherwise, the journey will take you about 5 hours. We mentioned everything you need to know about this in our blog post about Mount Bromo . We recommend you to organize this transport in advance if you want to stay in Bromo Town.

Rainbow Village – Kampung Pelangi Jodipan

This village was the highlight of our stay in Malang. It is a slum area that was already given up by the government. They wanted to relocate the people. A few students came up with the idea to paint this village to attract tourists, and their plan worked out.

You will pay a small entrance fee of 10k IDR (0.70$), to support the village. After you entered this town, you will be in another world of very positive vibes. Everything is painted in colors, and there are many cute decorations, all kinds of paintings on the walls, and much more. But the very best part of this village is the people who live there. They are so friendly and welcoming. Also, we met some school kids who came there to interview tourists for their English classes. We spend an hour with these kids and had so much fun. We highly recommend visiting this village when in Malang.

Blue Village

The blue village is located right on the other side of the street from the Rainbow village and should not be missed. When we walked around here we met no other tourists but only very lovely local people who were pleased that we visited their village. Here all the houses are painted in blue and it’s also very lovely to see.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

This waterfall is one of the places you can’t miss when visiting East Java. It is spectacular and very impressive. We drove to the waterfall by scooter while we stayed in Malang. The ride was about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can visit the waterfall while staying in the Bromo area, but it’s not much closer from there. That is why tourists often overlook this waterfall because it’s not very close to the main travel route. But we promise you it’s really worth the drive.

When you arrive at the waterfall, you will find a parking and some food stalls. You will first walk about 5 minutes until you get to a viewpoint where you will have a fantastic view of the waterfall. At this place, you can buy food and refreshment, what we did after the hike to hydrate ourselves with a fresh coconut.

After the viewpoint, you can start the hike down, which will take you about 30 minutes. The path is not always easy and will lead through some little waterfalls. Be aware that it can get slippery because of that. To wear the right shoes is very important. We wore some water-sandals that we personally like much better than sneakers when it gets to some wet paths. Also, be aware that you will get quite wet down at this waterfall, so don’t bring anything that could break because of the water. We didn’t have a waterproof case for our camera, but it survived.

Once you get down, you will have to pay to enter the waterfall. The fee is 20K IDR, which is about 1.40$ per person. The waterfall is truly impressive and massive. It’s worth the way to get down. Be careful when climbing the wet rocks that you won’t slip.

Day 6-10 Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, or “Jogja” how locals call it is the cultural city of Java and can’t be missed on an East Java Itinerary. It is famous for its traditional art and cultural heritage. You can visit here some of the most spectacular temples and also lovely neighborhoods with a lot of street art, cafés and even a bulk-store that we loved. We traveled from Malang to Yogyakarta by train with the Maliboro Express which was very comfortable. You can book a ticket in advance on 12Go.Asia or Bookaway .

Things to do in Yogyakarta

Budget for our East Java Itinerary

Traveling in Indonesia is quite affordable. We have listed here an average budget when visiting East Java. Of course, this can vary a lot with the choice of accommodation and transportation.

• Costs for food per day: 15-20$ for two people (local cuisine)
• Costs for accommodation: 30$ per night for a guesthouse or standard hotel
• Costs for the train ride from Malang to Yogyakarta: 19$ per person
• Costs for scooter rental: 5$ per day
• Costs for taxi: 40$ for 110km

Overall we can say that we enjoyed traveling in Java a lot. The Javanese people are some of the friendliest and warmest we ever met, and we loved all the unforgettable memories we made during this trip.

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The Best East Java Itinerary – 7 Days of Ultimate Adventure!

• February 9, 2024
• Asia , Indonesia

After having just completed an epic 30-day Indonesia trip , Java has now ranked as our favorite Indonesian island.

You will be witnessing landscapes you have never seen before with endless out-of-this-world natural attractions to explore.

You will be tasting some of the nicest food you have ever tasted and encountering some of the friendliest people on earth. Are you sold yet?!

This 7-day Java itinerary will probably be one of the coolest unforgettable weeks of your life. Let’s get into planning.

Don’t forget to check out below how much our trip in Java cost us!!

For all the information you will need for your Indonesia holiday click here .

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Yogyakarta

Flying into Yogyakarta, you will be arriving at the heart of Javanese culture. Yogyakarta is home to the Kraton (Sultan’s Palace), where you can witness traditional Javanese architecture and learn about the royal heritage.

Additionally, Yogyakarta is a hub for traditional Indonesian arts and crafts. Enjoy your first-day exploring local markets like Malioboro Street to shop for batik fabrics, silverware, and other handmade goods.

Indonesian food is absolutely delicious and is now our favorite, outranking Thailand !

Yogyakarta’s street food scene is a huge draw to the city in itself, offering endless mouth-watering meals at extremely affordable prices.

Basically, enjoy WANDERING around this new vibrant city and soak up the wonderful culture.

Day 2 – Yogyakarta

Borobudur and prambanan temples:.

These ancient temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are among the most impressive in Southeast Asia.

Did you know Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple?

While Prambanan is a Hindu temple complex. Both display stunning architecture and provide insight into Indonesia’s religious history.

Prambanan’s towering structures create a striking silhouette against the sky. While climbing to the top of Borobudur provides panoramic views of the surrounding lush countryside.

DO NOT pay over 100 euros for a tour.

This is the same tour and only costs 27 Euro per person. The guided tour offers an opportunity to explore Borobudur and Prambanan Temple including a climb to the top and a “skip the queue” privileges.

Day 3 – Malang

Possibly one of our favorite stories is that of Malang’s colorful village of Jodipan , also known as Kampung Warna Warni.

Until 2016, Jodipan Village was a slum on the verge of eviction. Due to the poor living conditions in the village, the local government decided to relocate all its residents.

It was at that time when a group of students from Malang University suggested giving Jodipan a splash of color in the hope of attracting tourists.

The residents collaborated with the local government and several artists to paint the walls of houses in countless bright and lively colors.

The colorful murals cover not only the walls but also the staircases, alleys, and all public spaces!

As a result, the increased tourism has provided economic opportunities for locals, with residents selling souvenirs, offering guided tours, and participating in cultural performances.

The project has successfully turned a once-neglected area into a lively and creative hub, truly displaying the power of art and community collaboration in urban development.

This was such a cool and special experience. What a story!! We loved our visit to Jodipan, AND with the entry fee only costing 10k IDR/ 60cent this is a must-visit in our opinion.

Day 4 – Malang

Take a day trip from Malang to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls we have ever seen.

The easiest way is to take a Grab to the waterfall from Malang. This is only 2 2-hour drive and will cost around 300k IDR/18 Euro one way.

For a further detailed article on how to get to Tumpak Sewu – Click Here .

We would recommend organising a fixed price with your driver as there will be no Grab available for your return trip.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Tumpak Sewu , which translates to “a thousand waterfalls,” is a majestic waterfall with a distinctive horseshoe shape, contributing to its unique and picturesque appearance.

The water descends from several streams above, creating a curtain-like effect that adds to the beauty of the landscape.

Important to note that visiting Tumpak Sewu will involve a tough hike if you plan to reach the waterfall below.

The journey takes you through dense forests, river crossings, and challenging terrains…

Let’s just say wear waterproof shoes and suitable waterproof protection for your photo/camera. Because when you get down there you will be getting wet from the spray alone.

But it is so worth the climb.

If that doesn’t appeal to you, not to worry. There’s a popular viewpoint, known as Nirwana Point , where you can still get a stunning panoramic view of Tumpak Sewu from a distance.

From this viewpoint, you can soak in the beauty of Tumpak Sewu and its rugged surroundings in its entirety.

The entrance cost 20k/1.20 Euro for the viewpoint and an extra 50k/3 Euro to go down to the waterfall.

Find all the information you need about Tumpak Sewu here .

Day 5 – Cemoro Lawang (Mount Bromo)

Many people choose to visit Mount Bromo on a day trip, however, we feel a longer stay is absolutely worthwhile and we would highly encourage you to do so.

Spend your first day of arrival exploring the beautiful and picturesque nearby mountain village of  Cemoro Lawang .

Cemoro Lawang is where you will be spending two nights.

You will find breathtaking views in all directions and the perfect place to witness your first glimpse of Mount Bromo for sunset.

Also, there are plenty of local restaurants and shops to browse through in this charming village.

Bring warm clothes, it gets cold in the mountains.

Day 6 – Cemoro Lawang

Once you’ve reached Cemoro Lawang, you’ve likely had a relaxed day enjoying the views of the village.

But now it’s time to see the main attractions!

King Kong Viewpoint at Sunrise and Mount Bromo Hike

Another positive of staying overnight in the village of Cemoro Lawang is that you value every hour of sleep!

Cemoro Lawang is the closest village to Mount Bromo, so this also means that you are in the closest position to begin your early morning hike to view Mount Bromo at sunrise.

Seeing as tours leave Malang at midnight to get to the viewpoint on time. You will be grateful for your decision to stay in Cemoro Lawang when you get to sleep in until 3 am!

It is a straightforward 4km walk to the King Kong viewpoint , easily accessible from the town with street lights the entire way.

Alternatively, there will be constant offers to bring you on motorcycles (yes even at 3 am!).

However, be aware these motorcycles can only bring you so far, you will have to climb the last part of the mountain to the viewpoint yourself.

After sunrise, the majority (if not all) of the groups head straight to Mount Bromo. Given that we were staying in the local village for two nights we opted to let the crowds pass and have a nap instead – win win!

Have a lovely leisurely lunch and head to Mount Bromo in the early afternoon – again easily accessible from the village and a much easier walk than to the King Kong viewpoint .

Enjoy being one of the only tourists there now that all the tour groups have left and be awe-struck at the natural wonder in front of your eyes as you gaze into a ferocious active volcano.

The sounds alone from the volcano will halt you in your steps and truly make you appreciate Mother Nature.

Find all the information you need about your trip including how to get to Mount Bromo here.

Day 7 – Banyuwangi (Mount Ijen)

Lastly, but most certainly not least, is your incredibly unique experience of hiking Mount Ijen to witness the mesmerizing blue flames and capture the largest acid lake in the world.

Now if that isn’t the perfect ending to top off your ultimate Java itinerary we don’t know what is!

The park opens at 2 am and the entrance fee costs 150k/8.90 Euro on weekends and 100k/5.90 Euro on weekdays. Get all the information and your Mount Ijen hike here.

Don’t forget to rent a gas mask from your accommodation if you plan on visiting the Blue Flames.

The best location to base yourself is the seaside town of Banyuwangi, located about an hour and a half from Mount Ijen’s entrance.

In Banyuwangi you can rent a scooter from your accommodation or join a group tour to Mount Ijen.

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To witness the blue flames in all their glory. requires an early start, This is because the flames will not be visible once it starts to get bright.

Be prepared to leave Banyuwangi at midnight to allow yourself plenty of time.

Ba l i is only 45 minutes by ferry from Banyuwangi so if you need downtime and to catch up on sleep after that full-on adventure week then this is not a bad option!

Or even better, head to the Gili Islands for ultimate paradise relaxation.

Are You Convinced Yet?

The following video may just help with the convincing.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kevin and Kate | Happy Irish Wanderers ☘️ (@happyirishwanderers)

Java offers the most amazing trip, ticking all the boxes of the most amazing and unique landscapes we have ever seen.

From volcano hikes and stunning waterfalls to jaw-dropping human creations that include ancient temples and rehabilitated slums, it truly is an unbelieve trip and a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a new adventure.

Couple all of this with delicious food and warm friendly locals then you will have yourself one epic week!

If you can top this we would love to hear about it so just drop us a message below or on our socials.

• Don’t forget to rent a gas mask if you plan to go down to the blue flames.
• Warm gear – it gets quite cold as you wait for sunrise in the early hours of the morning.
• Appropriate footwear – Ideally wear footwear you don’t mind getting wet at the waterfall.
• Headtorch – Hiking to the top of a mountain in darkness will not be fun!
• Download the Grab App .

Slán go fóil

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Related posts:

• 2-Week Indonesia Itinerary For Spectacular Adventures In Java & Bali
• King Kong Hill – The Best Spot For Mount Bromo Sunrise
• Indonesia Holiday – The Best Advice to Know Before you go
• Bali, Lombok, and Gili – The Best 2-Week Indonesia Itinerary

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Java Travel Guide: Best Things to do (8-day Route)

Java in Indonesia is a beautiful island filled with locations still undiscovered by tourism. Java is over 20 times larger than Bali . It is fairly easy to get around Java. In this 8-day Central and East Java route guide, you will visit the most impressive waterfalls, temples, the rainbow and blue village, tea plantations, Mount Bromo, and the Ijen Crater.

Central and East Java Travel Guide

Java is just a 1-hour flight from Bali and can easily be combined with a route through Bali . The Javanese locals are one of the friendliest in Indonesia. All are super interested in where you are from and always want to take a selfie with you.

Java has one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indon esia, and the largest Hindu complex of Indonesia is located in Yogyakarta . Every chapter of this 8-day Central and East Java route includes a link with more information about that specific subject.  

Day 1 – 3: Exploring Yogyakarta

The creative capital Yogyakarta in central Java is the start of your Java travel route. This relatively small city is popular amongst Indonesian and international students.

Prambanan and Borobudur are the highlights of Yogyakarta, but there is so much more to do in this area. Yogyakarta has an international airport and is easy to reach from Singapore or Bali .

Read: Things to do in Yogyakarta

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

The guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta are available in all kinds of price ranges.

Hotels in Yogyakarta 😴

Hostels go anywhere from 5 USD – 30 USD per night. On the other hand, guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta will start from 12 USD a night, including breakfast.

Day 4: Train Yogyakarta to Malang

In the morning, head to Tugu Station in Yogyakarta. Hop on the train at 7:45 AM towards Malang. The Malioboro Express train takes 8 hours and is definitely one of the more comfortable train rides in Asia. Take the rest of the day to rest or explore the rainbow village Jodipan .

Read about: Malioboro train from Yogyakarta to Malang

Day 5 – 6: Malang , Rainbow Village and Waterfalls

Malang is in the higher part of East Java and has a much more comfortable climate than in Yogyakarta. Spend two days exploring Malang, the colorful villages of Java , and the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia . Malang absolutely has to be in this Java travel guide.

Read: Things to do in Malang

Where to Stay in Malang

Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. Base yourself in the center to be close to the main sites.

Hotels in Malang 😴

Staying anywhere near the main train station is a great idea, as you’ll be located just a few minutes walk from the colored village.

Travel to Bromo (Day 6)

On your last day, make your way to Bromo to experience the sunrise the next morning. Don’t forget to stop at Coban Pelangi on the way to Bromo.

Where to Stay Near Bromo

Plan to spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel. The village is entirely focused on accommodating visitors, so you should always be able to find a place.

Hotels in Bromo 😴

Tip: Please note that you may not have hot water at a homestay.

Day 7: Sunrise on Bromo

Every route around Java has to include watching the sunrise on Mount. Bromo. Get out early and drive with a jeep up to one of the many viewpoints, explore the sea of sand, and take a look inside the Bromo Crater.

On the same day, travel to a town near the Ijen Crater. We recommend visiting Bromo and Ijen via a 2-day tour .

Read about: Visiting Bromo

Day 8: Ijen Crater walk

The Ijen crater is a mine for Sulfur miners who walk up and down (1.5 hours each way) the crater 3 times a day with 50 KG of Sulfur on their shoulders. Watching the ‘blue fire’ and sunrise is a popular activity. To see the blue fire, you have to start hiking up at 2 AM. This is definitely the hardest hike of this Java travel guide.

Read: Sunrise Ijen tour

After this experience, have breakfast at the base camp and catch the ferry to Bali. From Java to Bali, the ferry only takes 30 minutes. It runs every hour, 24/7, and costs around 8000 IDR.

Book your ferry tickets to Bali in advance

Where to Stay Near Ijen

You have a few options to get to Ijen. The easiest way is to find a guesthouse or homestay near Ijen. The best location would be in Banyuwangi.

Hotels in Banyuwangi 😴

Another option is to stay in a larger city called Bondowoso. The only downside is that you have to drive for another two hours to get to the starting point of Ijen.

Here are all your hotel options in Bondowoso.

How to Travel Around Java?

Java is just a 1-hour flight from Bali. It has various international airports with flights arriving from other major destinations throughout Asia.

The best way to get around is by train and private driver. Contact our great driver Azhar on Whatsapp (+6281336042045) . Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price.

Must read: 3-week Indonesia Route

Best Time to Visit

Java is best to visit between April and November. Don’t get fooled by an average of 28 degrees. When visiting Bromo and Ijen, it will be 0-10 degrees, so you will need a few layers.

Keep in mind that in the dry season (May – September), the rice fields might be changed to tobacco, and waterfalls will be less active.

Food in Java

The tastes in Java are just fantastic. Expect to have a large selection of delicious Indonesian food, and in the bigger cities, there are restaurants available with Western-style food.

Tip: Nasi Pecel was our absolute number one dish. :)

Costs of Traveling in Java

Java is one of the cheaper areas in Indonesia to travel, particularly in comparison to more touristy places like Bali. As such, you can find incredible street food and charming guesthouses for a fraction of the price!

Travel on a budget in Java, from $270 − $340 USD weekly per person, mid-range $630 − $1160 USD, and high-end from $1200 − $1670 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $35 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $60 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $20 USD
• Activities: $5 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Sim Card in Java

Telkomsel and XL Axiata are the providers with the best reach throughout the whole island. Some providers don’t work outside the city where you bought your sim card or don’t work at Bromo or Ijen. XL worked everywhere for us, had a good connection, and paid 30,000 IDR (2 USD) for 6 GB of data.

See all your sim options here

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• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

11 Best Things To Do in Yogyakarta

9 best things to do in malang, java, bromo and ijen tour: the perfect 3-day route.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

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5 Days East Java Itinerary (Visit Java from Bali)

People come to Bali in masses seeking enlightenment and witness everything the island of the gods has to offer. However, being only a 40 minutes ferry ride from Bali, Java is a place like no others. From walking alongside the rim of Mount Bromo’s crater to exploring the countless waterfalls, make sure to experience its grandiose landscapes. This 5 days East Java itinerary will guide you through the main highlights you have to see.

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East Java is so easily accessible from the North of Bali. It could be the perfect week-long adventurous getaway from your Bali vacation. The planning is only a suggestion. We actually did this itinerary in 7 days as we like to travel slowly and take our time!

Day 1 – Ferry/train + Rainbow city & Blue city

Day 2 – mount bromo, day 3 – tumpak sewu waterfall + kuneer hill plantation, day 4 – train back to banyuwangi, day 5 – blue fire at mount ijen.

Firstly, The ferry from Bali to Java leaves from Gilimanuk and arrives in Banyuwangi. It operates 24 hours a day every day of the week and sails every 20 minutes for the cost of 6,500 Indonesian Rupiah (IRP) which equals to 0,45 USD.

Once in Banyuwangi, the train station is only a couple of minute’s walk – station Banyuwangi Baru (BW). The train to Malang costs 62,000 IRP (4,30 USD) and leaves once a day at 5:00 a.m. every day of the week. It arrives in Malang (ML) at 12:35 p.m., giving you the rest of the day to visit the Rainbow Village!

Jodipan village & Arema village

Jodipan’s Village (Rainbow Village) and Arema (Blue Village) are both walking distance from the train station. For a small entrance fee, you can spend hours walking around the colorful alleys. They are separated by a bridge, and very hard to miss!

Up until quite recently, the Jodipan’s village used to be considered a slum on the verge of collapse. The place seemed to be beyond savings when a group of students decided to change things around. They came up with the incredible idea of coloring the entire city in different colors. The students partnered up with a paint distributor and with the help of the army and a couple of local artists, gave a fresh coat of paint to the entire area.

The walls of the villages now adorn creative murals, where colorful animals meet Disney characters. You can spend hours getting lost in the narrow alleys and socializing with the locals, who all seem genuinely happy to see support from tourists.

All in all, this initiative has completely changed the village’s image and quality of life. The incredible changes Jodipan has seen is a reason on its own to go visit the place and encourage them.

Sunrise from King Kong Hill

Mount Bromo is definitely a sight to see when visiting the island of Java. The way to get to the mountain itself may be long and uncomfortable, but it’ll all be worth it. We suggest you keep a full day for the Bromo Sunrise Tour as you will start at 1:00 a.m and finish at around 12:00 p.m. You deserve a nap after that!

The guided tour to get to the mountain begins late at night. It allows enough time to arrive at the right spot in order to see the magnificent sunrise that awaits.

The starry night sky slowly becomes filled with orange light. The clouds retreat from the mountains, presenting you one of the most beautiful sunrises of your life.

Walk around the edge of the crater

You will then drive to the base of Mount Bromo where you can climb the stairs all the way to the top, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime look into a smoking volcano crater.

You can also walk around the rim if you’re feeling bold! The view from the top is very impressive, and the desert surrounding it seems otherworldly.

Tumpak Sewu

Tumpak Sewu is also known as the Niagara Falls of Indonesia! You will first head to the viewpoint where you are greeted with the most spectacular waterfall view of your life. The Semeru volcano is guarding over the falls while a rainbow appears out of this gigantic wall of water.

Getting to the base of the waterfalls isn’t the easiest task, but the trekking itself is extremely beautiful. You will climb down a massive mountainside full of vegetation and smaller waterfalls. Once at the bottom of the mountain, you are immediately met with a Jurassic park like biome.

The feeling of walking to the base of this waterfall with water raining on you is one that every traveler should feel at least once. We even included it in our Top 10 Travel Bucketlist. There are other waterfalls and natural pools on the way back up and the path is a totally new and exciting adventure. We think it’s a must to add on any East Java itinerary!

Kuneer Hill tea plantation

The next stop is the tea plantation of Kuneer Hill! It is located fully on the other side of Malang and the drive is about 4 hours (don’t listen to Google Maps). We did both on the same day but were short on time. If you have time, it might be better to go the next day.

You can literally spend hours getting lost and taking in the panoramic view of the plantation. We decided to walk to the top of the hill, but you can also buy a ticket where they drive you up there.

The best way to get to these places is probably to rent a taxi for the day. You could rent a scooter but the road was pretty steep on the way to Tumpak Sewu, and it takes about 3 hours to get there from Malang. We had an awesome experience with our friend Azhar ! Contact him by WhatsApp at (+62 813-3604-2045).

The train back to Banyuwangi only leaves once a day, at 4:00 p.m. and arrives at 11:50 p.m. You can enjoy one last morning in Malang to take it easy and walk around. Head to the Blue Village if you didn’t get the chance to visit it yet.

Once you get to Banyuwangi, make sure your hotel knows you are coming on the train. They can usually arrange for pickup, as it is pretty late at night. After your arrival, you can either, go straight to climb Mount Ijen which starts at 1:00 am. (if you’re short in time). However, you can also take a full day of rest and do it the next day. You should modify this East Java Itinerary to your schedule, and spend more time if you can!

The ‘Blue Fire’ of mount Ijen is a rare sight and the fact you are exploring this alien-like terrain at night makes it even more special. You will need to be dressed warmly and equipped with a gas mask for the sulphuric gas.

After 1.5 to 2 hours of trekking up, you will start descending in the crater where the hike is steeper, and the air heavier. If you’re lucky and all the conditions are right you will be able to see the blue flame. Not everyone gets to see it, and your guide won’t be able to guarantee you will. We got lucky when we went, as they told us they didn’t see it the day before.

The miners you meet along the way trek the same mountain as you every day, sometimes twice a day to extract and carry the sulfur. They each bring back about 88 pounds of sulfur on every trip. They are doing such hard-work and the compensation they receive for it is not even close to cover for their work. It is common to stop by, talk to them, and give them a few dollars or a chocolate bar. They will be happy to rest for a couple of minutes and take a picture with you. That will make their day better, and in return your day as well.

Sunrise at Kawah Ijen Crater

During the hike back up the crater and while the sun is rising, you’ll see the turquoise sulphuric lake, clashing on the yellowish sulfur mountain surrounded by thick white smoke. The views are simply out of this world. We hope that one day the locals could stop doing this inhumane work and people will come to Kawah Ljen for the views only.

The Ijen tour ends at around 11:00 am, ending this East Java itinerary perfectly. You’ll make in time to take the train back to station Banyuwangi Baru (BW) and hop on a ferry back to Bali.

We hope this East Java Itinerary will be useful to you. This Island has so many destinations that are still not flooded with tourists. Being around 8 times bigger than the island of Bali, there is so much to see and you might end up spending much more than a week discovering the area!

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East Java (Jawa Timur) is a wild, rolling region of dizzying peaks, smoking volcanoes and unspoilt panoramas. Dotted across this landscape you'll discover ancient temples being swallowed by a riot of vegetation, national parks where growls, barks, and squawks echo from the undergrowth, and stunning beaches with world-class surfing.

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9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary

Home » Blog » Indonesia » 9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary

With volcanoes, waterfalls, and ancient temples, traveling around the Indonesian island of Java is an unforgettable adventure. We’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Java, plus we’re sharing insider tips and a perfect 1-week Java itinerary so all the planning is done for you!

When most travelers think of Indonesia, it’s Bali that comes to mind. It’s no secret that we love Bali . With its abundance of smoothie bowls, cheap massages and a vibrant culture, it is certainly worth a spot on your Indonesia trip.    

However, in a country consisting of more than 17,500 islands – each with its own unique draws – there is much, much more to this nation than just Bali. 

If you’re looking to escape the polished hipster vibes and touristy beaches sprinkled with Westerners sipping Bintang, we’ve got a place in mind for you…

Dotted with volcanoes, waterfalls and dense jungles, traveling around the island of Java, Indonesia is an adventure in itself. Mingle with locals without being just another tourist , and swap smoothie bowls for authentic street food. 

There are so many things to do in Java, foods to try, and cultural experiences to be had. But truthfully, it can be a bit daunting planning your trip to Java because there is less tourist infrastructure and far less information about it online. 

That’s where we come in… [Enter your personal Java trip planners… aka us!]

This article is not only going over the best things to do in Java, but also what to expect, how to get there, where to stay, how to plan your itinerary, and (most importantly!) which foods to try.

Java Indonesia Travel Guide

As we said, this is a full on travel guide packed with much more than just things to do. We’re covering all the bases and answering all the questions spinning around in your mind (been there!). So use the links below to jump around this article so you can plan an incredible trip to Java!

• Java overview

Best things to do in Java

• How to book tours in Java

How to get to Java

• Java 1-Week Itinerary
• Transportation around Java

(Hint: it’s very different from what we’d recommend packing for Bali!)

Java Indonesia overview

Java is a huge island that would take months to explore properly. But if you, like us, are limited in time and want a mix of culture, nature and adventure, the best region to focus your travels on is East Java. 

For the purpose of this article, we’re going to focus solely on the region of East Java. Additionally, we’re narrowing it down to locations that you can realistically visit in one week in Java. 

What to expect in Java:

Transportation between cities can be long and uncomfortable

Even if cities don’t look that far apart on a map, travel between them to take longer than you expect. Seriously. (don’t trust the timings on Google Maps)

Outside of Yogyakarta, the hotels and restaurants you’ll find around Java tend to be quite basic  

Lots of early mornings! (Many of the places to see in East Java require you to wake up before the sunrise.)

Little nightlife. Java is a Muslim majority island (like most of Indonesia), and therefore you won’t find nearly as much nightlife (or alcohol, for that matter) as you will on the Hindu island of Bali.

Locals often want to get photographs with Westerners, since tourists are less of a norm.

Java vs. Bali:

Far cheaper than Bali

Much less crowded than Bali

Less tourist infrastructure

English is not as widely spoken as on the island of Bali

What types of travelers will enjoy Java

Java is a destination that some travelers will love, while others may not be so keen. 

You’ll love Java if…

…you consider yourself an adventurous, experienced traveler or someone who wants to escape crowds and touristy spots, East Java will be your jam! 

Java might not be for you if…

…you prefer to be pampered and aren’t about roughing it in any way, shape or form, Java may not be your cup of Joe (see what I did there?). 

If you’re still reading, we’ll assume you’re one of those travelers who will enjoy Java Indonesia and will enjoy the unique and adventurous travel experience you’ll find on this island.

We’re here to narrow down the best things to do in East Java and provide you with all the info you need to plan your trip.

These 9 things to do in Java should be “musts” on your list (they are the best of the best!). They are also in a perfect order for traveling east from Yogyakarta to Bali and can all be fit into a one-week trip.

So let’s dive in!

Note: The order in which these activities are listed is actually a really good travel route. At the bottom of this article, we’re sharing a sample Java itinerary to further help you plan your trip!

1. Experience culture in Yogyakarta

Known as the “cultural center” of Java, Yogyakarta is a city that has an undeniable magnetic charm. 

Yogyakarta is the foodie destination on Indonesia’s most populated island. In addition to being a culinary hotspot, Yogyakarta has a thriving art scene, cute cafes and bars, strong religious roots, and some of Indonesia’s most iconic temples.

But first things first: Let’s make sure you know how to pronounce the name of this city. It’s easy to get it wrong, and it is embarrassing when the locals correct your mispronunciation. I speak from experience!

Let’s say it together: JOHG-ja-kart-ah 

There are so many things to do in Yogyakarta that we wrote an entire article about how to spend your time there. But here are a few “must do’s”:

check out the street art

eat your way through this foodie city

people watch on Malioboro Street once the sun sets

shop for batik fabric (this is the place to get it!)

Oh, and while you’re in “Jogja” (that’s what the locals call it), you can’t miss the two most famous draws of this Indonesian city. The next two points describe each of them in detail… 

2. Catch the morning light at Borobudur Temple

There’s a good chance that you’ve seen pictures of Borobudur Temple, even if you didn’t know it. This beauty is an Instagram favorite, and for good reason. It is a spectacular sight to behold. 

One of our very favorite parts about traveling is finally stepping foot somewhere we’ve been dreaming and planning about for years. And at Borobudur, I had one of those moments where I had to pause and let it sink in that I was really there.

While the island of Java is predominantly Muslim, this Buddhist Temple one of the most-visited attractions in Indonesia, and is a “must” for most travelers.

Wander past the bell-shaped pagodas on the top level of the temple, each of which has a Buddha statue inside. And as the morning light casts a glow over the misty fields that lie before you, you’ll understand why this place gets so much hype.

Lucky for you, we’ve put together a guide to visiting Borobudur Temple , including what to wear, how to get there, and how to save money on your entrance ticket!

3. Sunset at Prambanan

While this temple is certainly less famous than Borobudur, it is still incredibly impressive.

Often compared to Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat, this Hindu temple complex bears a striking resemblance to its more well-known doppelgänger.

Explore this complex, taking in all the details, like the hand-carved reliefs that depict Hindu legends, and imagine you’ve stepped back in time as the golden hour glow envelopes the temple grounds.

Psst! We have a guide devoted to everything you need to know about visiting Prambanan Temple .

4. Go on a food tour with a local

We’re obsessed with food (maybe a little too much?), and we’ve found the best way to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible is by going on a food tour.

Yogyakarta is known as a “foodie city” and there are so many foods to try that you’ve likely never heard of like bakmi and gudeg .

Quite honestly, it would be kind of tricky to navigate the cuisine without the help of a local, so we would highly recommend booking a tour with Backstreet Academy . 

5. Go underground in Jomblang Cave

If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s your chance! Not far outside the city center is a cave that hold a magical secret…

Each day for a short period of time, a light streams into the dark cavern from a hole in the cave’s “ceiling”. This creates a glowing beam of light that seems almost unreal.

This whole caving experience is quite the adventure, as you’ll be lowered into the cavern by a team of 30 local men and boys holding your rope, and you’ll then explore the cave through knee-deep mud. Channel your inner Indiana Jones (we’ve all got one!), and prepare for a wild experience.

Are you intrigued? Read more about how to book a Jomblang Cave tour and what to expect in our Yogyakarta guide . (It’s #5 on the list.)

6. Feel tiny at Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls

If you have a thing for waterfalls a) we’d make great friends because we’re also obsessed and b) you NEED to put Tumpak Sewu Waterfall on your Java itinerary. It is absolutely mind blowing.

We’ve seen a lot of waterfalls on our travels, and this onedefinitely stands out as one of our favorites. This U-shaped waterfall is massive and is one of those rare places where you can’t quite believe your eyes.

But before you hop in a car headed for Tumpak Sewu, a word of warning. Getting to this waterfall requires a bit of work and an adventurous attitude.

Read More: Lucky for you, we’ve got all the details of how to get to Tumpak Sewu as well as what to expect so you don’t have to do the confusing guess work like we did!

7. Wander through Malang’s “Rainbow Village”

While the main reason tourists stay in Malang is because it makes a good base for adventures outside the city such as Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Mount Bromo, there is a lesser-known attraction that should definitely be on your radar.

The neighborhood of Kampung Warni Warna was once considered one of the most impoverished slums in the entire country. Residents were on the verge of being kicked out so developers could come in and revive the area until some local university students had a creative idea…

They thought if they could make this neighborhood beautiful through the use of art, they could attract domestic and foreign travelers who would pay a fee to see a “rainbow village”. Their plan worked, and now residents have opportunities to generate income, living conditions have been improved, and dignity has in many ways been restored.

It is a really neat place to explore while in Malang, so read up our guide to visiting Kampung Warni Warna and pack your camera!

8. Sunrise at Mount Bromo

Seeing sunrise over Mount Bromo is on most Java itineraries, and for good reason. It is pretty damn spectacular.

Mount Bromo is an active volcano that looks like something out of a movie. It’s actually pretty much the perfect “cartoon volcano” — the epitome of what we all think volcanos should look like.

That said, you won’t be enjoying the sunrise in solitude. Along with Ijen Crater (#9 on this list), this is likely the spot where you will find the most tourists — both Indonesian travelers and foreign — during your entire time on the island.

As long as you’re prepared to share this incredible sunrise with many others, we think you’ll really enjoy the experience.

Pssst! Read up on our guide to seeing sunrise at Mount Bromo so you know what to pack and what to expect!

9. See the “Blue Flame” at Ijen Crater

This is another early morning, but my oh my, is it ever worth it! In all our travels, we’ve never been to a place even remotely similar to Ijen, and that’s because this place is truly one of a kind. 

To begin with, this is a volcano inside which is a crater lake that water unlike any body of water you’ve ever seen. The milky turquoise color of the water is almost eerie and is indicative of its extremely high acidity levels. In fact, this lake is the largest acidic lake in the world. But that’s not all that makes it unique…

At the edge of the lake, is a concentration of sulfur so dense that there is a working sulfur mine, and as you get near the lake, you’ll see the hard-working miners going about their (literally) back-breaking work.

Plus, you’ll also be able to (hopefully) view the illusive Blue Flame , which is a natural phenomenon which can only be viewed at two places on earth: at Ijen Crater and in Iceland.

Keep reading: There’s sooo much more we want to say about Kawah Ijen ( kawah means “crater”), so if you’re planning a trip to Java, be sure to check out our complete guide to visiting Ijen Crater , which is packed with insider tips!

Java Travel Guide

Alright, now that you’ve got a killer list of 9 epic things to do in Java, we hope you’re ready to start planning your trip. When we were planning our own trip to Java, we had so many questions that we couldn’t find the answers to online.

So to make sure that doesn’t happen to you, we’ve rounded up all the things we wish we would have known to hopefully help you plan an epic trip of your own!

Java Travel Tips

How to book tours in java.

Java 1-week Itinerary

Yogyakarta Travel Tips

Malang travel tips, banyuwangi travel tips, transportation in java.

What to pack for Java

Carry your own toilet paper: Many of the toilets around Java are squat style and require a bucket to flush. Also, many do not have toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to pack some in your purse or backpack.

Avoid ice: If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid getting ice in your drinks, as it may cause you to get sick.

Download Google Maps: We had an Indonesian SIM card (which is really cheap). However, it’s a good idea to download your Google Maps so you can access them when you don’t have good cell signal or Wi-Fi.

Dress a little more conservatively: In Bali, you’ll be surrounded by other travelers wearing bikinis and revealing dresses, but the island of Java has far fewer tourists. And in general, the Islamic community is more conservative when it comes to dress. Cover your shoulders and knees as much as possible (at least when you’re going to temples or holy sites).

Get local currency: While it’s possible to pay with credit cards at most hotels or upscale restaurants, most local shops will prefer cash. We get the best exchange rates by withdrawing money from ATMs using our Charles Schwab debit card which reimburses all ATM fees!

Read more about our favorite travel credit cards here !

One thing we were a bit nervous about when traveling to Java was how we were going to book our tours. We had a very tight time frame, and the attractions like Ijen Crater, Mount Bromo and the temples in Yogyakarta were the reasons why we were traveling to Java.

There just wasn’t much info about booking tours in Java online. And because we had limited time and didn’t want to miss out on anything, so we messaged out guesthouses in the respective cities ahead of time to try to make a reservation. 

In both cases, they told us to wait until we got there which was a bit unsettling, but in our experience we arranged most activities in Java through our guesthouses upon our arrival for the following day.   

However, if waiting until the last minute makes you uncomfortable, we are also sharing tour companies through which you can make your bookings ahead of time so you don’t have to book anything during your trip.

Yogyakarta Food Tour: Backstreet Academy

Jomblang Cave: Backstreet Academy

Borobudur & Prambanan Temples: Backstreet Academy

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Ask your hotel in Malang

Mount Bromo: Get Your Guide (multi-day tour including Ijen Crater)

Ijen Crater: Get Your Guide (multi-day tour including Mount Bromo)

Good to know: High season in Java is May – November; and for reference, we traveled to Java at the end of July 2019. Read more on what time of year is best to visit Indonesia for a more detailed description of what weather to expect during your trip. 

How to Get to Java

If you are coming from Bali , you have two options of getting to Java.

Take a short (and typically cheap!), 45-minute flight from Denpasar to Yogyakarta . Alternatively, you can fly into Surabaya, but this would mean you’d miss the cultural wonders of Yogyakarta (which we would highly suggest you don’t skip).

Take a shuttle bus to the very western part of Bali where you will then catch a ferry to Banyuwangi. After landing in Java, it is a short, 15-minute ride, and you will land in the town that is the base for visiting Ijen Crater (aka Banyuwangi). 

To maximize your time, we’d suggest one of the following routes:

a) West to East: Fly to Yogyakarta, travel east, take a ferry back to Bali. (This is the route we took, and this article reflects that order.)

b) East to West: Ferry to Banyuwangi, travel west to Yogyakarta, fly back to Bali (or your next destination).  

Not flying? If you’re trying to lessen your carbon footprint *virtual high five!*, it is possible to take a ferry to and from Java. However, you will need more than one week in order to hit all the spots on this list and circle back to Banyuwangi.

East Java 1-week Itinerary

We had 6 days on this island, and absolutely packed it full. We’d recommend 7-8 days to fit all of these activities in, but it can be done with 6 minimum (but it will be very packed!).  

Yogyakarta: 3 nights (#1 – 4 on this list) 

Take a night train or night bus from Yogyakarta to Malang

Trains leave Yogyakarta daily at 7:45 AM and 20:45 PM. The trip take about 8 hours.

Tickets cost around 180,000 IDR ($12 USD) per person

Talk to your hotel in booking a train at least one day in advance

Malang: 2 nights (#5 -7 on this list)

Take a evening train from Malang to Banyuwangi

3 Trains leave Malang daily at 15:50, 16:05 and 16:32. The trips take about 7 hours

Tickets cost around 62,000 IDR ($4 USD) per person

Banyuwangi: 1 night (#8 on this list)

Note: You can flip this itinerary and start in Banyuwangi and go in reverse.

Things to keep in mind…

Even distances that look close on a map can take a long time to cover because of the traffic and poor road conditions on this island, so keep that in mind as you plan your itinerary. 

Also, many of the major attractions in Java require really early wake-up calls (think midnight!), so you’ll need to account for this as you’re planning your trip as well. 

If you’re traveling from Bali, it’s important to know that Java is in a different time zone. It is 1 hour behind Balinese time. 

This charming city is full of cultural experiences and some of the best food you’ll try during your time in Java. Yogyakarta also has the best accommodation options out of all the cities you’ll stay in. 

Things to do in Yogyakarta

Experience Java’s cultural capital by checking out the street art, visiting the Sultan’s palace, and learning about batik. (#1 on this list)

Explore the Buddhist temple of Borobudur . (#2 on this list)

Visit Prambanan Temple, a Hindu complex that is reminiscent of Angkor Wat. (#3 on this list)

Go on a food tour with a local . (#4 on this list)

Go caving at Jomblang Cave . (#5 on this list)

Where to stay in Yogyakarta

This city has the best hotel options of all the places on this itinerary, and there are plenty to choose from.

Budget Stays:

Nextdoor Homestay : We loved our stay at Nextdoor Homestay, which was made especially nice with a small but sunny pool, amazing staff who were super helpful, and a delicious breakfast. 

Good Karma Yogyakarta : Centrally located and with excellent reviews, this hostel is a good option for budget travelers. They have private double rooms or 6-person dorm rooms to choose from, a beautiful terrace and a bicycle rental option.

Otu Hostel By Ostic : One of the best features of this adults-only hostel is the outdoor pool area, which is key to surviving the mid-day heat in Java. Start your day with an a la carte or Asian style breakfast and let the 24-hour staff help you plan your excursions.

Mid-Range Stays:

The Alana Hotel & Conference Center Malioboro : This modern hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta is just a 10-minute walk from the historic Sultan’s Palace.The property also features an onsite restaurant serving up Indonesian and Western cuisine, and an outdoor pool.

Hotel Indies Heritage Prawirotaman : Located right on Prawirotaman street, this modern hotel has all the amenities for a comfortable stay in Yogyakarta such an an outdoor pool, air conditioned rooms and an on-site restaurant.

Jogja Village : Right in the heart of Prawirotaman area, this environmentally friendly hotel is decorated with colorful Javanese-style interiors and surrounded by lush gardens. Other features of the property include an outdoor pool and open-air dining area.

Where to eat in Yogyakarta

Cafe ViaVia: This is a popular backpacker hangout and with a large menu of local and Western dishes including lots of healthy and vegan options, it’s easy to see why. They also have a fair trade gift shop next door and offer cooking classes.

Warung Heru: Home-cooked Javanese dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Just Playon: Fun bar vibes and a Western-centric menu.

Nanamia Pizza: Italian restaurant with a cute backyard patio area for seating.

Hungry Nomad Vegan Resto: Great option for those seeking plant-based meals.

Sop Merah: Local hot spot for Javanese style soups.

ARKADIA: An “Instagrammable” cafe with cocktails, coffee and Western dishes. Sometimes there are art exhibits here too.

Keep Reading: Our Yogyakarta guide goes over many more accommodation options. In that article you’ll also find some of the best places to eat in Yogyakarta (important stuff!) and lots more things to do.

The city of Malang itself isn’t all that interesting. The main reasons to stay here are that it makes a good base for lots of activities outside the city, like Mount Bromo and Tumpak Sewu. You can also visit the “rainbow village” of Kampung Warni Warna while you’re in Malang.

Alternative: Another city that is close to many of the same attractions is Problingo. After doing some research, we landed on Malang because while still pretty basic, there were better hotel options and we wanted to see Kampung Warni Warna , which we would have missed had we stayed in Problingo.

Things to do in Malang

Take a day trip to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall . (#6 on this list)

Wander around the rainbow village of Kampung Warni Warna . (#7 on this list)

See sunrise at Mount Bromo on a “Jeep tour” . (#8 on this list)

Where to stay in Malang

Quite honestly, you won’t have all that many great choices for accommodation in Malang. And you won’t be spending all that much time in your hotel anyway, since most of the things to do are day trips outside the city. 

INNI Homestay : We did a lot of hunting for a guesthouse, and landed on INNI Homestay. We could not recommend it more highly. It feels more like a homestay than a hotel, and the mother-daughter duo who run this place make you feel like family. They arranged all of our activities for us and made our super tight schedule come together!

Hotel Santika Premiere Malang : If you want a more traditional accommodation, this 4-star hotel has a great location with a outdoor pool. Each room had air-conditioning and breakfast is included.

Where to eat in Malang

Gloria’s Noodles: A friend recommended this place to us, and it sure delivered. The atmosphere isn’t anything too special, but the noodle soups (with their famous homemade noodles) are excellent. 

Taman Indi Resto: For an upscale meal in Malang, it’s hard to beat Taman Indi, which was also very conveniently located near our homestay. We absolutely spoiled ourselves with fancy (non-alcoholic) drinks, an appetizer, and entrees, and spent just over $18 USD in total. So even though it’s an upscale experience, it is still very affordable. 

Night Market: around 6:30-ish the night market starts to open and you’ll find lots of different options for cheap street food.

Things to do in Banyuwangi

Hike to Ijen Crater for sunrise (#9 on this list).

Relax at a hotel pool.

Take a day trip to the stunning beaches on Tabuhan Island and Menjangan Island.

Where to stay in Banyuwangi

Banana Homestay : We stayed at Banana Homestay and felt incredibly welcomed by the husband and wife who run this place. We were very hungry when we arrived late at night, and they even drove us on motorbike to their favorite noodle shop. They also let us borrow warm jackets for our Ijen Crater hike. Seriously kind people. The accommodation itself is basic, and there is no hot water in the shower, but it was just fine for our short stay.

Snooze Hostel : This place is brand new, and had it been open during our visit we probably would have chosen to stay here. With a beautiful design, many room options, and rave reviews, this looks like a good choice for many types of travelers. 

Terima Kai Guest House : This is another guesthouse that has opened since our stay, and it looks really comfortable, nicely designed and affordable. 

Didu’s Homestay Bed & Breakfast : This popular spot books up fast and is known for great hospitality, a nice breakfast, and boho bungalow vibes!

If you have a bit more of a budget to work with and are looking for a hotel with a pool, we’ve got a few options for you!

Villa Solong : If you’re looking to splurge (and by splurge, we’re still looking at under $100, but it is still significantly more expensive than most accommodation in the city), Villa Solong would be our pick. 

El Hotel Royale : This large resort-type accommodation has a pool and massive dining area. For the reasonable rates, it looks like a good choice for those seeking a larger hotel on their stay.

Ketapang Indah Hotel : Beachside hotel with a pool and affordable rates. Some rooms appear to be quite nice while the less expensive rooms look pretty basic. 

There are a few different ways to get around in Java. Being the largest island in Indonesia, there is a pretty good rail system that connects major cities (like all of the ones above). However, the train departure times are not always the ideal, but hey, this is Java and it’s more about the adventure.

Java Train tips:

There are three train classes you can book: Economy, Business, and Executive class:

Economy: thin padded bench seats that face each other

Business: padded bench seats that all face the same direction with slight recline, power outlets, air conditioning

Executive: similar to airplane coach seats with legroom, seats recline, power outlets and lots of air conditioning.

For the long train rides, we would recommend getting Executive class seats because you’ll be much more comfortable and it’s really not that more expensive. We booked late and had Business class for 8 hours overnight from Jogja to Malang and it was not the best night’s sleep.

Lights are always on, even overnight

There are racks above your seat where you can put your luggage.

East Java is fairly safe to travel, but you can never be too careful. That’s why we typically lock our bags to the rack with wire combo locks .

Purchase your tickets online at Tiket.com (you can have your hotel staff help you get the right trains)

Note: Prices will vary depending on the time you depart.

Once your train is booked online, you’ll need go to a kiosk at the station to print off your paper boarding pass. Be sure to have your booking number ready to enter or scan.

Getting around within cities in Java

Take a taxi

If you arrive in Java without cell service, your best bet is to take an airport taxi into town. There are stands near the exit where you will tell them your destination and pay in exchange for a ticket. You will be assigned to a taxi and you will hand your ticket to the driver. Once you’ve made it to town, we’d suggest other ways of getting around as they will be cheaper.

Grab or Go-Jek

If you have cell service, skip the taxi booths and instead book a ride through Grab or Go-Jek (ride-sharing apps in Indonesia). Both apps are great, however, we noticed slightly cheaper rates on Grab. Rideshare apps are also just a good way to get around town.

Take a becak (cycle rickshaw)

This is another way to get around town and is a more unique experience! 

Rent a motorbike

Before we even start with this one, we would only recommend renting a motorbike in Java if you have experience driving a scooter. Java isn’t a bad place for driving a motorbike, but it’s not the best place to learn. But if you are confident, it is really nice to be able to drive yourself to Borobudur and Prambanan Temples and explore the small villages outside of the city.

Safety advice: Always, always wear a helmet. We see way too many travelers going without them and it makes us cringe. We know of far too many people who have gotten seriously injured on motorbikes in Asia, so why would you risk it?! Also, look into your travel insurance policy to see whether or not you’d be covered in the case of an accident. 

Hire a driver

When trying to get to the sites outside of the city (the temples, etc.), the best way to get around if you’re not comfortable driving yourself is to hire a driver. It is actually a very affordable service and they can bring you to several places throughout the day, maximizing your time. You can arrange a driver through most hotels or guesthouses in Java. 

What to Pack for Java

Traveling in Java is a different story than lounging around Bali, and it requires a pretty different packing list. That bikini-and-kimono combo just won’t cut it in Java. 

Read our suggested items below so help you prepare for your trip:

Warm clothing for early morning hikes: Jacket, Gloves, Hat. It gets seriously cold up there. We were pretty unprepared for our trip to Java. We had been living in Bali for the 3 months prior to our trip and really didn’t have any warm clothing. We were so lucky our guesthouse owners let us borrow clothing because damn it was COLD. (And we’re from Minnesota, where we’re used to freezing temperatures!)

Portable Battery Charger

Shoes that are suitable for hiking

Lightweight clothes that are on the more conservative side. This is a Muslim country, remember, and it’s important that you cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples or holy spaces. But it’s also worth mentioning that it can get very hot during the day, so you’ll want to be sure you pack outfits that will be comfortable in the heat.

Healthy snacks. If you’re coming from Bali, grab some granola, trail mix, or other healthy snacks to munch on during your long drives and early morning hikes. Outside of fresh fruit, we found it more difficult to find healthy snacks.

Book or Kindle for long transportation

Rain jacket

Reusables: We put together a packing list of our favorite eco-friendly items that we always carry on us to reduce the amount of waste we create on our travels. Java, in our experience, has a pretty big issue with single-use plastics, so packing these items will help you say no to unnecessary waste.

You may also like…

We have TONS more resources on Java, so if you’re planning an Indonesia trip , you’ll definitely want to check out our other articles too!

Fun Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Java

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Essential Guide to Java’s Best Waterfall

Visit Malang’s Colorful Rainbow Village: Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan

Kawah Ijen Crater Sunrise Hike + Blue Flame

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We want to hear from you!

Is Java on your radar? What questions do you still have? What things to do in Java do you want to see? Comment below and we’ll do our best to answer!

Comments (10) on “ 9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary ”

Thank you so much for all of this incredible information. Much appreciated.

Thanks for this detailed article about Java ! As a javanese myself, I highly appreciated it ! There are so many hidden gems on this island that most tourists overlook 🙂

I am planning to take a train from Yogyakarta to Banyuwangi in a few weeks. I was curious if there is food or snacks on the train? Thanks!

I’m so glad I found this post and you guys. My fiance and I are going on a month long adventure in Indonesia for our honeymoon and want to ride across Java on a motorbike. (He drives a vespa exclusively in LA so he has experience!)… We will definitely be using this post as our guide. Thanks!! And happy adventuring!

What an incredible post on cool things to do in Indonesia beyond Bali! I had no idea that there were volcanos in Java honestly, definitely makes me want to visit soon. Saving for later!

SO many volcanoes! Wed love to go back and see even more of the (massive) island!

This sounds like my kind of place! That rainbow village seriously looks so cool. Really hoping I’ll still be able to go there sometime this year, I’ll definitely be saving this post for when I do ?

The "rainbow village" was amazing! I hope you’re able to visit someday!

Thanks so much for shedding light on other parts of Indonesia other than Bali! While all are beautiful, it’s refreshing to see 🙂 I love your photos as well!

Thank you so much, Alexandra! We feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface of Indonesia. It is such a beautiful country with a vibrant culture and friendly people and we can’t wait to get back and see more!

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If you are planning on visiting Indonesia than I highly recommend adding East Java to your itinerary. Normally over looked by the Island Bali, East Java covers the eastern third of the Island of Java. East Java (Jawa Timur) is a wild region of untouched waterfalls, rich culture, smoking volcanoes and unique landscapes. You will feel like you have just landed on another planet. In our 3 day itinerary you will discover some of East Java’s most impressive waterfalls , unique villages and experience one of the best sunrise in East Java .

Best way to get around East Java?

Travelling around East Java is not as easy compared to Bali and there are only a few options when it comes to planning an East Java itinerary. You can either hire your own vehicle, pay for a driver, take public transport or book a tour.

We only had 4 days to spend in East Java with our friends Kelly and Kody who are also photographers. After some research and planning we decided it was going to be more comfortable and safer for us to book a Private driver . We were planning on seeing A LOT in a short amount of time which meant the days will be long and the nights very short. Having a driver meant we could catch up on sleep if we needed to as some of the drives are very long.

We booked a 3 night 4 day tour with a private driver through Zaini Transport . They had really good reviews and also great value for price. For 4 days including pick up from Surabaya, a large Innova van which fits 4 people comfortably, gasoline, parking fees and a tour guide in Ijen the total cost was 4, 150 000 IDR ($280 USD). Split that between 4 of us it is very affordable and we could just sit back and relax on the drive. We also had to cover the drivers accomodation but his rooms were only around 100,000- 150,000 IDR a night which is very cheap.

Our driver Dayat made the trip so much better, he was super helpful, spoke great English, loved a good laugh and was an extremely good driver. We can’t recommend Dayat and Zaini transport enough! He made this trip stress free. Book your ultimate East Java trip with Zaini transport here.

You can also contact Dayat on his WhatsApp number +62 812 4978 1542.

3 day East Java itinerary starts now

Day 1- jodipan village.

Our driver Dayat picked us up from our hotel in Surabaya around 9 am then it was a 4 hour drive to our first stop on our East Java itinerary – Jodipan.

Jodipan is a unique and colourful tourist village in the town of Malang. What makes this town such a popular place to visit is that the whole village is painted in colourful rainbow colours located beside Brantas River. Entry

Jodipan was more considered a slum area so the locals and students of Muhammadiyah University of Malang came up with the idea to add a splash of colour by painting all the houses with colours of the raindow. This changed everything for the small town and now this Rainbow Village is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Entry into Jodipan Village costs 3000 IDR.

Walking through Jodipan ever where you look, down very ally, every doorway, every house has a vibrant touch of colour. Divided by the Brantas River, there are basically two areas that are connected by an equally colourful yellow bridge with a glass floor. On the other side of the main road is the mainly Blue coloured town.

After Jodipan we drove a few hours to Lumajang where we spent the night stay at Tumpaksewu homestay. We had a big day of waterfalls planned for day 2 so staying at Tumpaksewu Homestay is very convenient. The homestay is located only a short 10 minute walk from Tumpak Sewu Waterfall entrance meant we didn’t have to travel far early in the morning.

We stayed in a Bungalow room which had a big room and was super comfortable. What more could you want for only $36 AUD a night. Click here to book your stay at Tumpaksewu homestay.

Day 2- The best waterfalls in East Java?

We started the morning with a 6am wake up and we made our way to one of East Java’s most impressive waterfalls Tumpak Sewu Waterfall .

Nothing can prepare you for what you about to see, not even all the images on social media. Tumpak Sewu waterfall forms an almost perfect semi-circle curtain of many waterfalls. Earning its name which translated from the local Java language meaning ‘a thousand waterfalls.’

Enjoy panaramic views from the top viewpoint before making your way down the hike to the bottom of the ravine. On a clear day you can see Semeru Volcano right behind Tumpak Sewu which makes the view even more spectacular.

This adventurous trail is fun but can be a lit bit challenging in some spots. It can also be bit bit slippery, this why it’s important to wear a good pair of walking shoes. Make sure to take your time on the descent and have 3 points of contact all the time. Once you reach the bottom prepared to be blown away again (literally). The power of the 120 meter tall waterfall can be felt even from meters away. Tumpak Sewu is one of the most spectacular waterfalls I have ever seen!

Before walking back up you can follow the river a little longer to another lovely waterfall Goa Tetes.

You can read more about the our ultimate guide to Tumpak Sewu here.

Kapas Biru Waterfall

Only a short drive down the road is another beautiful waterfall- Kapas Biru. Also known as Air Terjun Kapas Biru in Indonesian. This is a single waterfall set against an orange rock wall, surrounded giant bamboo trees and lush jungles. Its not as big as Tumpak Sewu but its extremely photogenic. Not to mention it’s a lot dryer!

The hike to Kapas Biru isn’t as strenuous as Tumpak sewu. There’s only one spot where you climb down a ladder and the rest is just walking through a muddy and rocky pathway. When you reach a clearing with some rice paddies, you’ll know you’re almost to the waterfall. The way back is very uphill though, so you may want to bring some water.

After you are all waterfall-ed out its time to jump back into there car for a few hours drive to the town of Bromo.

We wanted to stay right in Bromo town to do the Mount Bromo sunrise hike the following morning. This way we were closer to Mount Bromo and could have a little bit more of a sleep in. Parama Hotel is super close to Mount Bromo and has its own restaurant and cafe on site. A double room costs about 250,000 IDR, check out prices of Parama Hotel here.

You can also stay in the town of Malang or Probolinggo but you will have to drive either two hours or 45 minutes in the morning to Mount Bromo. 

Day 3- Mount Bromo sunrise

Its a super early morning for anyone doing a sunrise over Mount Bromo. We booked a tour through @bromo_jeep_tour which we highly recommend. You can send them a WhatsApp on +62 853 3776 3806. The tour costs 600,000 IDR per Jeep which includes hotel pick up, drop off and all morning to shoot with the Jeeps.

We were picked up by the Jeeps at 3:30 am and driven up Penjakan Mountain to the sunrise view point on King Kong Hill. At the first viewpoint we kept walking up to the higher viewpoint. We then found a little path to the right where we found our own little space away from the crowds.

Here we enjoyed an unbelievable sunrise. Watching the sunrise over Mount Bromo and Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has to be one of the most amazing sunrises we have ever seen. As the golden light aluminates the landscapes, you have spectacular views of the mountains, craters and uniques swirls of the black lava sand. This landscape truely is from another world.

Mount Bromo been a highlight of our East Java trip, check out our guide to Mount Bromo here.

Of course we had to add Jeeps to our East Java itinerary!

Once you have enjoyed watching the sunrise and taken lots of amazing photos, it is time to head down to Mount Bromo to the ‘Sea of Sand’. We had a yellow and an orange Jeep and the pop of the bright colours against the unique dark ridges really made for epic photos!

Day 4 Ijen Crater (which we didn’t get to see)

Unfortunately the night before we were stuck in really bad traffic, quite late in the night. When you do Ijen Crater you typically start very early in the morning at like 2:30 am. By 12 o’clock we still were 2 hours away from Banguwanji town and STILL stuck in traffic. We unfortunately had to make the call to cancel Ijen this trip because we wouldn’t have made it in time.

The Ijen plateau’s most extraordinary sight is the magnificent turquoise sulphur lake of Kawah Ijen. We will definitely to return to East Java to see Ijen Crater next time.

We hope you get to see Ijen Crater when in visiting East Java, It looks like an amazing experience. There are a number of blogs about Ijen Crater and we will link our favourite blog here.

Our East Java itinerary has been a jam packed, intense & sleepless 3 night trip but we have had the most amazing time. East Java’s impressive and still untouched scenery is what makes East Java a country that will leave you speechless. It won’t be long until more tourists start to discover East Java so better you visit asap.

Three days is not enough to see all the incredible places in East Java but you could definitely see some off the best in this short amount of time. There are still so many places we would love to see so we can’t wait to come back. If you only have a few days then we hope this blog has helped you plan your own East Java itinerary.

Don’t forget you can you can read more about our adventures to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Mount Bromo .

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10 Awesome Things to do in East Java, Indonesia + Tips

Many travelers visiting the archipelago of Indonesia fail to realize the hidden gems they miss out on in East Java. East Java offers rich culture and diverse natural wonders like waterfalls, volcanoes, and ancient temples. These destinations don’t often get Bali’s praise, but you’ll find that there are plenty of things to do in East Java that surpass the experiences of any Bali beach go-er. 

If you are an adventure or outdoor enthusiast, then East Java will undoubtedly delight you. 

Visiting Mount Bromo is a bucket list experience that allows you to climb to the rim of an active volcano; Tumpak Sewu and Madakaripura waterfalls are unlike any other you’ll see in Asia , and Kawah Ijen is considered to be the largest volcanic crater lake in the world. It also is one of the few places one can see the blue-flamed fire phenomenon! Yogyakarta hosts two of the most ancient and stunning temples Borobudur and Prambanan, rich in history and uniquely intricate architecture. 

With attractions like these, it seems like you’ll have plenty of things to do in East Java!

This is a guest post by Kaylini, a travel blogger of The Curated Travelist specializing in all things Indonesia! Living in Indonesia’s stunning archipelago for several years, Kaylini is an avid traveler and cultural enthusiast. She shares her love for the country’s diverse travel destinations in her blog while exploring the well-known and hidden gems of Indonesia’s 17 000+ islands.

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂   Learn more

Best Things to do in East Java

Watch the sunrise over mount bromo from mount penanjakan.

This beautiful Stratovolcano is in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and certainly one to tick off the bucket list when planning your East Java itinerary. Very few travelers can boast of safely visiting an active volcano, but Mount Penanjakan is the place to be perched for sunrise. 

At Mount Penanjakan, one can see the brilliant Mount Bromo’s iconic panoramic , along with Mount Batok and Mount Semeru (also an active volcano) sleepily in the background. 

To visit this spot for sunrise involves an early start of 3 am while braving the mountain range’s foreign cold air and altitude. Here it’s important to note, though, that getting to this stunning Mount Penanjakan viewpoint simply involves a 30-minute Jeep drive from the park entrance and a short 100-meter walk to the viewpoint. So little effort, with a magnificent reward. 

Watching the sun creep through the clouds and the imminent glow graze the tips of the craters is a magical experience. The stillness felt at dawn, even amongst others, is delightfully peaceful. After you’ve taken in the daybreak, your next stop will be to visit Mount Bromo itself.

Climb to the crater rim of Mount Bromo 

What makes this destination so appealing is the bragging rights to having hiked up to the rim of an active volcano and the fact the supposed ‘hike’ is not a strenuous task at all. 

Reaching the crater rim involves taking the jeep towards the mountain and then walking across a volcanic ash field. Towards the slope, you find a stairway that leads to the volcano’s rim.

The staircase is not incredibly steep but much easier than climbing up a slope with your bare hands, so a stairway is a welcome alternative. 

The glory of peering into an active volcano is something not many can tout. It’s incredible. If you’ve ever wanted to experience adventure with minimal effort, then this is definitely one to choose!

Get refreshed by Madakaripura Waterfall

One of the things to do in East Java is to visit several waterfalls. Madakaripura Waterfall is one of the places where you genuinely feel the enchanting nature of East Java. Very few travelers have heard of this waterfall despite its stunning appearance. Also located in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, this beauty is frequently visited as part of a Mount Bromo tour.

Renowned for its 200-meter towering rock face and cavern-like appearance, this watery gem is a delightful and refreshing experience. You get to this waterfall from the entrance with a beautiful walk (or motorcycle ride) through a lush green valley. En-route you’ll pass dense jungled forest and babbling smaller streams.

The walk is 200 meters but builds anticipation nicely as you hear the sound of the rushing water growing nearer. One thing to take note of is to come dressed prepared; you will most certainly get wet. Several small vendors are selling disposable raincoats and flip flops at the entrance if you choose not to.

When you do reach the waterfall, you’ll likely find yourself speechless. Taking in the view is something to be savored. A gentle mist hovers in the air, and gentle clings to your clothing. The ambiance is one of utter enchantment. The moss-covered rocks, the secluded location, and the dreamy landscape make for an incredible moment in nature. 

Find tranquillity at Borobudur Temple

Not only is Borobudur temple an ancient temple dating back to the 9th Century, but it’s also the largest Buddhist temple in the world, located in the heart of a predominantly Islamic country. 

The Borobudur temple makes for a magnificent sunrise experience but is also a photographer’s delight for its unique architectural stupas that you will see on this majestic multi-tiered temple. 

Earning UNESCO status in 1991, this temple has weathered volcanic eruptions from Mount Merapi. It depicts an incredible time where the different cultures and religions lived peacefully so close to one another. 

Marvel in the Hindu masterpiece of Prambanan Temple

Prambanan temple complex is comprised of over 240+ temples; however, unlike its counterpart Borobudur temple, it did not survive the volcanic eruption in Yogyakarta , which left the temple in partial ruins. 

Despite this, the UNESCO heritage site remains a popular attraction to Yogyakarta in East Java, and one frequently visited with Borobudur. This temple is unique in its architecture with a spire-like structure and under continuous restoration. Numerous ancient stones and rumble remain on the grounds and give insight into the forgotten grandeur of this once mammoth structure. 

Be mesmerized by a Kawah Ijen, the turquoise volcanic lake

Kawah Ijen is one of the most unusual attractions you’ll find in Indonesia and certainly makes it a must-see place in East Java. Located in the center of Mount Ijen lies Kawah Ijen or Ijen crater. It is the largest volcanic lake in the world, measuring over 20 kilometers wide. 

Its turquoise milky-colored hue looks delicious but is deadly. With a depth of nearly 200 meters and an acidic pH level of less than 0.3, it’s not a lake to be taking a dip in!

This volcanic crater lake also sits at an altitude of 2,700 meters, making it a gorgeous place to watch the sunrise. 

Getting to the top of this volcano will require an early and a steep walk. The positive part is that the walk is in darkness, so you thankfully won’t notice the steepness en route to the summit. Apart from it being steep, the walk is entirely paved and makes an easy trek. 

Witness the phenomenon of blue flaming fire at Kawah Ijen

This is one of the few places in the world to see this incredible phenomenon ; however, seeing this unique spectacle will require a little bit of effort. 

To see blue fire, one has to be at the summit by 2 to 3 am at the latest; this, unfortunately, means leaving your accommodation at around midnight to reach the park post by 1 am. 

The walk to the top takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on your pace. It’s relatively normal to take breaks due to the incline and the thinness of the air on the climb. 

Upon reaching the summit, still shrouded in darkness and bitterly cold is where you’ll bear witness to the blue flamed fire. 

The blue flames are created by the natural ignition of the sulfur deposits made by the volcanic lake. Unfortunately, the blue flames are not guaranteed daily, and the size is also dependant on the gases that day. Bearing witness to this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and, indeed, one to tick off the bucket list.

Be enchanted by Tumpak Sewu

Tumpak Sewu waterfall translates into 1000’s waterfalls in the Javanese language, and that’s exactly what it is. A giant rock face of soaring height creates a stunning waterfall curtain and exotically tropical panoramic view in the heart of East Java. 

The panoramic overhead viewpoint of Tumpak Sewu waterfall is only a few steps from the ticket box and parking area and provides a birds-eye view above the towering waterfall and into the amphitheater-like valley below. Those with drone cameras will also capture the spectacular sight of the Mount Semeru volcano backdrop. 

For those more adventurous travelers, you have the opportunity to venture down into the cavern of the waterfall, but it’s important to note here that the trek down to this point is not a stable one. The journey involves making-shift bamboo railings, crossing rocky streams, and a fair level of fitness and agility to get down and back up again. 

The reward is certainly worth it, though. The atmosphere is dreamy. The ever-present mist from the falls, the moist vegetation, and the dizzying height of the 120-meter tall waterfall above is awe-inspiring. Equally exciting is that just a few meters away are even more waterfalls.

Take a dip at Goa Tetes Waterfall

Located left of the T-junction while making your way down the Tumpak Sewu waterfall cavern is Goa Tetes Waterfall. This delightful waterfall mirrors the smaller streams of Tumpak Sewu but has a hollowed cave area over which the streams fall. Goa Tetes is not to be missed if you visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall’s lower viewpoint as it’s only a few meters away.

Visit the rainbow village of Jodipan in Malang

Located in Malang, the area is a burst of vibrant colors , making it one of the necessary things to do in East Java! In Javanese, Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan, this area of the town, was considered a slum. However, in 2016, a group of savvy university students changed the area’s tenants’ imminent eviction trajectory by reviving the location with a splash of color. Partnered with a local paint company, the student painted vibrant colors and added murals and brightly colored-covered umbrella alleyways. This location is an absolute feast for the eyes!

How to get to East Java 

Reaching East Java is no difficult task as these attractions are thankfully not very remote. For international visitors flying into Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta will be your first stop. Then a second flight or train ride to Yogyakarta to visit Borobudur and Prambanan temples as you make your way East to the other attractions by flight, car, or train. 

If you are flying into Bali first, you’ll likely start with Kawah Ijen and make your way west ending with the Yogyakarta temple. There are plenty of tours that take the burden out of these domestic travel arrangements. 

10 travel tips for visiting East Java 

• Indonesia only has two seasons: wet season (November to April) and dry season (May to November). These destinations are best visited during the dry season, preferably from May to July .
• Visiting these locations will not involve camping as the major cities are nearby, and hotels and hostels can be found in Yogyakarta , Surabaya , Malang , and Banyuwangi . 
• Make sure you have comfortable outdoor shoes as well as a warm jacket and clothes for visiting Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen at sunrise.
• Pack swimwear for taking a dip at the waterfalls Madakaripura, Tumpak Sewu, and Goa Tetes
•  Include a set of aqua boots with grip if you are going to the lower viewpoint of the Tumpak Sewu waterfall
• Also, have some small cash notes for tipping the local guides, they are vastly different from those in Bali and do appreciate the smallest of gestures.
• When visiting the temples, dress appropriately (no stomach showing or inappropriately short shorts). Most foreigners will be asked to wear a sarong to cover their knees at Borobudur temple – including men.
• At all of these sites, drone photography is permitted except the temples.
• Using a tour company or tour guides is recommended for these destinations. Certain places will require you to speak the local language as these areas do not have an English-speaking population like the other main cities of Bali and Jakarta.
• Tour packages for East Java often include Mount Bromo, Madakaripura waterfalls, and Kawah Ijen but can often be customized.

My favorite travel Resources

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🚗 Rent a car with DiscoverCars , a trusted international car rental website.

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📱 Install the Airalo app , which provides local eSIMs for a more affordable internet connection when traveling. Get 3 USD with code: BAIA2592 .

💸 Use Wise to withdraw money in local currency without hidden fees and avoid high exchange rates. On top of that, you might get a Visa or Mastercard debit card .

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🩺 Buy the most flexible and budget-friendly travel insurance, SafetyWing , covering COVID with add-ons for adventure sports and electronics theft.

☀ Book in advance some of the best city walks, cultural experiences, and day tours to maximize your stay and experience here.

Want more inspiration?

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Kawah Ijen looks fascinating. Is it really safe to go up there? I mean the gases emitted from the volcano are healthy?

The tour company gives you all the special equipment like respirators, gloves, masks, etc 🙂

Thanks for the info Baia.

Always a pleasure! Feel free to reach out anytime 🙂

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cassiethehag

Java Itinerary and 2-week Java Travel Guide

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

My Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide wraps up my entire Java travel guide series. I hope to give you a single, complete itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Throughout this Java itinerary guide, I have linked to personal comprehensive blog posts which focus on each place you will visit on the route. This is to avoid ending up with a very, very long blog post that is hard to navigate. Instead, I’ve provided thorough information in separate posts – so you can click through if you personally want more info!

To find the cheapest flight options from your city, you can use this search form below:

The Java itinerary focuses on spending one week in Central Java and one week in East Java. It mixes both must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-track, upcoming areas I’d never heard of until I started researching my trip. This Java solo backpacking route took me 16 days and is my favourite overall journey in six months of travelling Asia!

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION TO JAVA

Java has an immense history which led to its multicultural influences today. From Hinduism and Buddhism co-existing in the early centuries to the growth of Islam and then eventual Dutch colonisation, from whom Java claimed independence after WW2. Many ancient sights in Java are scarred yet still standing after being bruised by wars and earthquakes, yet remain unparalleled by attractions elsewhere in Indonesia.

Java is an economic hub and the most developed of Indonesia’s islands, making it easier to travel across than nearby Bali for non-scooter drivers. Surprisingly, I rarely saw another Westerner throughout my trip except at understandably crowded key sites .

JAVA IS PERFECT FOR BACKPACKERS

Solo travellers can rejoice in its public transport while adventurous backpackers will enjoy the scale of nature here. Spoiler alert: Java is EPIC.

Like Vietnam, Java is thin and long, making it easy to travel from East to West (or vice versa). I felt incredibly safe here as a solo traveller. Plus, I found incredibly clean, cheap hostels with the most helpful hostel hosts I’ve met . I would definitely recommend this as an Indonesian backpacker route.

There’s plenty to do for families, too, with highlights Bromo and Borobudur being easily accessible. In East Java, Tumpak Sewu is best skipped for an easier waterfall trek – but don’t worry, there’s plenty to choose from!

WHAT TO WEAR IN JAVA

Whilst Indonesia is a beautifully multicultural set of islands, Java is predominantly Muslim. The folk here are super friendly and not overly conservative, so you wouldn’t feel too uncomfortable wearing regular travel clothes. Note that the famous temples (such as Borobudur and Prambanan ) are NOT Muslim, and thus there are usually no clothing rules, but dress respectfully. Oh, and it gets very hot! So loose, long clothing is best. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for hiking too!

WHEN TO VISIT JAVA, INDONESIA

The dry season in Java is April to October, and temperatures can get very sticky after around 10am in the cities particularly. I highly recommend organising rest/travel days in Java on weekends, as it is highly populated, so attractions can get densely crowded with local tourists on weekends. Check for Indonesian holiday dates, too – most tourists in Java are local, so visiting big attractions on weekdays while the locals are at work is the best plan.

CURRENCY AND LANGUAGE

Indonesia Rupiah – prepare to be a millionaire. You will usually find locals who speak English in tourist hubs and accommodations. There are over 300 native languages in Indonesia, but you are most likely to hear Javanese here.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

169 countries can get a FREE 30-DAY Visa when getting into the airport – right? This can NOT be extended in the country.

An extendable visa (up to 60 days) costs 35 USD – you must get this at the airport BEFORE going through immigration when first arriving in Indonesia. It’s sign-posted and not too much hassle, aside from the queues. This is possible for visitors from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, much of the EU and UK, plus the USA.

You can usually arrange this visa in advance for a higher fee from an agency in your own country (such as STA Travel), but many people opt to use a visa agency in Indonesia to help them with the hassle of then confirming the extended visa.

Make sure your passport has at least six months left on it on any visa.

JAVA ITINERARY & 2-WEEK JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE

Below is my suggested holiday itinerary for 2 weeks in Java, combining its cultural heart, an unexpected paradise island, rainbow villages, epic volcanoes, and the most insane waterfall trek I’ve ever done!

CENTRAL JAVA ITINERARY

Arrive in yogyakarta.

You can fly into Yogyakarta from various transport hubs in Indonesia (including Jakarta and Bali), and there are cheap direct flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur .

Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport is around a 35-minute taxi ride from the city. You can also take a local train or bus from elsewhere in Java. You can book tickets in advance easily from 12Go Asia (or ask your accommodation to help if unsure) .

TIP: Download the ‘ Go-Jek ‘ app for car and scooter taxis – it’s like Uber but much cheaper!

YOGYAKARTA 3 DAYS)

Also commonly known and pronounced as ‘Jogjakarta’, this city is often considered the cultural heart of Java. It is a great place to begin your itinerary in Java and get your bearings. There are many traditional activities to discover here, and the palace is still home to the royal family – yep, there’s still a monarchy in Indonesia. Is anyone else utterly oblivious to this?

EXPLORE THE KRATON

The main area to explore in Yogyakarta city is called the ‘Kraton’, a group of palaces built for the sultans of Yogya . You could spend an entire day exploring here.

Entry cost to the grand palace : 12K IDR (around 1.2 AUD, 65p or 0.85 USD) .

Although it won’t blow you away like other palaces in Asia, an excellent reason to visit is that the cost includes traditional daily performances such as gamelan or puppetry.

‘ Tamansari ‘ was my favourite part of the Kraton to explore. Whilst this 18th-century ‘water palace’ looks worse for wear, the ticket also included entry to ‘Sumur Gumuling’, an underground mosque. It was fun walking around this area and exploring the tunnels. The unique location reminded me of Escher’s artworks – anyone else?

Cost: 12K IDR (1.2 AUD, 0.65 GBP, 0.84 USD)

There are also many museums in Yogyakarta. I would recommend Museum Sonobudoyo. It has English translations and many artefacts on display.

Cost: 10k IDR, 1 AUD, £0.54, 0.71 USD

Best of Yogyakarta

⭐ Get a closer look of the top destinations like Borobudur, Prambanan, Water Castle, and Sultan’s Palace during a private customizable full-day tour

TRADITIONAL PERFORMANCES AND LOCAL WORKSHOPS

Batik courses can be found around the Kraton area, a great way to meet locals and get stuck in with an immersive activity . Or head to Kota Gede , a district famous for silver, and see the silver artisans hard at work.

To see a traditional performance, there are many options around Yogyakarta to choose from. Museum Sonobudoyo is one option close to the city centre, which shows puppet shows (wayang kulit) at 8pm every day. It lasts 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the museum. Want to do something special? Watch a traditional Javanese ballet in the unforgettable setting of Prambanan, a vast Hindu temple just outside the temple. Read more information here: Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Tickets

FULL YOGYAKARTA TRAVEL GUIDE: This includes alternative activities and day trips, potential scams, my favourite places to eat and how to get around the city: https://cassiethehag.com/yogyakarta-guide/

BOROBUDUR & PRAMBANAN

The key reason to visit Yogyakarta is undoubtedly to see Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. It’s easy to combine this with Prambanan , a huge Hindu temple, in one day.

BOROBUDUR SUNRISE

The most common way to visit Borobudur from Yogyakarta is to do the sunrise tour. I highly recommend waiting to book this in Yogyakarta through your accommodation or local vendor as it will be much cheaper. Klook also offers an affordable combo tour online or through their app .

After being picked up from your accommodation, you will begin the day at Manohara around 04:40 to pick up the ticket, which is just a few minutes’ walk to the temple.

The sunrise ticket is ONLY available from Manohara . If you are on a tour, they will organise the ticket for you. https://manoharaborobudur.com/en-gb/

If you are going at the regular entrance time of 6am or after, you can just buy a standard ticket when you arrive.

COST OF BOROBUDUR SUNRISE TICKET: 475K IDR It is alternatively 350K IDR for Indonesian visitors. COST OF REGULAR TICKET (after 6am): 325K IDR COST OF A BOROBUDUR AND PRAMBANAN COMBINED TICKET: 520K IDR PRAMBANAN ONLY TICKET: 325K

Prambanan is a huge Hindu temple built around the 9th century, and unfortunately, several earthquakes damaged the structures.

Despite the piles of cordoned-off rubble, the main structures are still intact and impressive. I didn’t realise you could climb up the stairs and see into each structure. Each temple hides a different statue , usually a deity, so exploring these hidden treasures is fun.

BOROBUDUR FULL GUIDE: For four alternative ways to get to Borobudur and Prambanan depending on your budget, my personal experience and more detailed background information on these amazing sights, see here: https://cassiethehag.com/borobudur-sunrise-guide/

TRAVEL DAY – YOGYAKARTA TO KARIMUNJAWA

I spent the afternoon resting after Borobudur as I had a crazy travel night ahead. I got picked up at 1130pm from my accommodation in Yogyakarta in a shared car that took me to Jepara Harbour. The following morning, I took a ferry to what is assuredly my favourite island I’ve visited so far on my travels…

It’s a bit complicated, and there are various options for getting to Karimunjawa. I’ve made a specific guide to help you figure out how to get there and book your ferry tickets: https://cassiethehag.com/how-to-get-to-and-from-karimunjawa-javas-paradise-island/

KARIMUNJAWA ISLANDS (3 DAYS)

The main reason to visit Karimunjawa is, essentially, the same reason most people HAVEN’T visited yet – it’s pretty hard to get to. When I first saw photos of Karimunjawa, I had my heart set on going there on my Java itinerary but was nervous about visiting as a solo traveller. Thankfully it was well worth the effort. I recommend spending at least three days in Karimunjawa to make the trip worthwhile . You’ll be glad you did. The island is a true Indonesian hidden gem !

GO SNORKELLING AND ISLAND HOPPING

I paid 200K IDR (20 AUD, 11.25 GBP, 4.16 USD) for my snorkelling trip – that cost is for 3 snorkel locations, lunch and island hopping. You will stop at at least 2 tiny uninhabited tropical islands – one on which they will make a fire and cook lunch for you (including veggie options). Totally magical, right? I booked through Bodhi Tree Hostel , my favourite hostel I’ve ever stayed in, and anyone is welcome to join.

TIP: make sure you avoid Javanese holidays (most of the tourists on Karimunjawa are locals), and you might be the only boat you see out on the ocean all day!

EXPLORE THE ISLAND BY SCOOTER

The cost to rent a scooter was 50K IDR (5 AUD, 2 GBP , 3.58 USD) for 6 hours – so cheap between two people! It will cost 75K IDR for a full day.

Head to Bukit Love Hill viewpoint – pictured below at sunset and only 10K for 3 entries. Then go to the Northern beaches for a tranquil, empty, sandy paradise beach – such as Batu Lawang Beach. Your accommodation can give you a map, but there’s like… one road on the island, haha. The palm trees and gorgeous mountains you’ll see on the way were my personal highlight!

DISCOVER DESERTED BEACHES

Whilst there are many beaches to choose from, and you can’t go wrong, the Western shores are a great place to spend an afternoon. They have names like Pokemon Beach and Barakuda Beach. Ask your accommodation to recommend a great beach as I reckon it changes a lot depending on the season and how busy it is.

Also worth a stop is Pantai Ulung Gelam (where I took the below sunset photo) or Pantai Batu Topeng – they’re right next to each other. Check with your accommodation the best spot for sunset, depending on the month you visit!

For full information about Karimunjawa, eco-travel advice, and many more activities, view my guide here:

Karimunjawa Guide – Costs, Example Itinerary & Things to Do

TRAVEL – KARIMUNJAWA TO MALANG

There are many ways to get across the country from Karimunjawa to Malang … and they’re all a bit of a headache. Personally, I took a ferry from Karimunjawa to Jepara , a shared taxi from Jepara to Semarang Bus Station, a local bus from Semarang to Surabaya, annnnddd finally (after staying overnight and having a lie-in), a local bus from Surabaya to Malang .

If you value comfort and stability while travelling, then service of private transfer might be an excellent choice. Check out this option in Surabaya & Malang.

Once again, if you’re concerned about getting from Karimunjawa , there’s plenty of advice and reassurance in my guide here: How to get to and from Karimunjawa , Java’s Paradise Island

EAST JAVA ITINERARY

Yass, finally our Java holiday itinerary really gets going!! Yep, you heard that right. Borobudur and Karimunjawa aren’t even close to being the best of what Java offers!

I highly recommend incorporating rest days into the East Java travel guide. It’s full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences so make sure you’re not too tired to enjoy them all.

MALANG (3 DAYS)

I based myself in MALANG when first arriving in East Java. Malang is a fantastic access point for many attractions in East Java. You can easily reach Malang by share car, train or by arriving at its easily accessible bus station.

Before heading to East Java’s unique natural gems, in the town itself are three beautiful colourful villages you can check out during your stay.

KAMPUNG BIRU aka ‘BLUE VILLAGE’

The whole village was painted blue in support of the Malang football team! It’s worth taking time to walk around and spot all the gorgeous street art that’s on display.

KAMPUNG WARNA WARNI JODIPAN and KAMPUNG TRIDI aka ‘RAINBOW VILLAGE’

The entire village is painted in different colours, even the bridge that crosses the river and each individual step. From what I understand, this was a poor slum area. PR students from the University of Malang proposed this colourful initiative to a local paint company. They hoped tourism would positively affect the people who live here since they could sell snacks and entrance tickets.

Entry is only 3000 IDR to each village – that’s around just 0.30 AUD or 0.15 GBP!

Where to eat in Malang:

• the night market is a great budget option. I got veggie food here for 8K IDR .
• Local warungs will always have similarly budget options, or 20K – 30K IDR for a huge meal
• Java Dancer Coffee – I got pancakes here for 25k. Also, they had good Western coffee, and I could sit with my laptop for hours on end on my recommended rest day.

TEMPUK SEWU WATERFALL

(DAY TRIP FROM MALANG )

Before I arrived in Malang , I couldn’t work out how to get to Tumpak Sewu and highly doubted I’d make it. I’d seen photos of an incredible waterfall that was very much on my radar but seemed impossible to get to as a solo traveller. Thankfully, once I arrived in Malang, I realised it would be easy!

The trek down to Tumpak Sewu:

The trek is quite intense, with ladders attached to the mountainside and not a clear pathway. I recommend booking a local guide for the trek down if you’re not an experienced hiker or travelling alone. Tread very carefully and make sure ropes are correctly attached to the rock face before relying on them to hold your balance.

It’s worth the effort, though! Photos don’t do Tumpak Sewu Waterfall justice, particularly as the enormous amount of spray will drench not just yourself but also your phone camera! It was the closest I’ve got to feeling like I’d made it to a fantasy movie set, and it felt exhilarating to be up close to such a vast , roaring waterfall.

It’s also worth visiting Goa Tetes Waterfall while you’re there, as it’s about a 5-minute walk from the bottom of Tumpak Sewu ! It’s signposted .

Not done with waterfalls yet? Kipas Biru Waterfall is just a short drive away! This third waterfall is genuinely optional, and you may well find yourself done with trekking after Tumpak Sewu. It was steep to get down to Kipas Biru at times, but it was easier than the first trek as it felt much safer.

• If you’re solo, you can get a scooter driver/guide for the full day who will speak English and show you the best spots. He will take you to all three of the locations for 350K IDR . (Potentially negotiable.) Pricey but I think it’s great this option exists! You can book this in person through Malang Mador Hostel (amazingly friendly staff) or most likely elsewhere too
• Solo backpackers and groups alike can get a SHARED CAR – between all passengers this will be around 500-600K IDR . I’ve done many hikes but I gotta say I’m glad I had company on this one.

Where to rent a car?

Rentalcars is a service with user-friendly interface, affordable car prices and availability.

Tumpak Sewu is a 2.5-hour drive from Malang .

Full information on this three waterfall day trip, more info on how to get there and what the trek down is really like (including more photos) on my complete Tumpak Sewu guide and how to get there .

MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE

This is it, guys – my favourite activity in six months of exploring Asia, let alone on my Java itinerary. Have you ever wanted to see something so bad that you believe, when you finally do, it’ll never meet your expectations? Mt Bromo exceeded them.

WHY VISIT BROMO AT SUNRISE?

Bromo is 2300m high, but it is just one peak in an active volcanic complex known as Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The highest peak is Mount Semeru , at an enormous 3676m. Together, they form one of the most otherworldly landscapes you may ever see .

A shared rickety 4×4 jeep picked me up from my hostel at 3:30 am. Our first stop was to see the sunrise from Mount Penanjakan sunrise spot. Finally, I could fully appreciate how alien the volcanic peaks appeared under the morning glow, each jutting out from a flat plateau.

TIP: don’t fancy a tour? You can also DIY it. Check out my complete Bromo guide below. (Though I was happy with my chilled, budget tour as a solo traveller!)

MORE ACTIVITIES AT MOUNT BROMO:

After sunrise, I felt like I was on the moon while playing on the ‘sea of sands’. Finally, we relaxed at Bukit Teletubbies – this expanse of green felt so strange after the barren landscape before it!

Bromo was an UNFORGETTABLE experience. I’ve gone into a lot of detail about my whole personal experience in my dedicated Bromo post (where truly I wanted to keep my unforgettable memories of this place safe!), as well as giving you more information on how to book and what to prepare:

Mount Bromo at Sunrise – An Otherworldly Experience

If you wish to book a tour to visit Mount Bromo, you can see some examples here.

As impressive as Mt Bromo was, Java still had one more trick up its sleeve…

TRAVEL – MALANG TO BANYUWANGI

You can take a direct train for this route. Mine left Malang just before 4pm and arrived in Banyuwangi just before midnight. My hostel host kindly picked me up from the station. When arriving in Banyuwangi, get some rest after checking into your accommodation. Then book a tour to Mt Ijen or arrange transportation. From Banyuwangi , you will partake in your last Java activity…

IJEN SUNRISE HIKE

Uh, yeah, sorry, it’s another sunrise! Didn’t I mention the East Java itinerary was intense? But there’s more than one reason to hike up Ijen at night… it’s worth the early start to see the natural phenomenon of the blue flame.

Typically, you will leave Banyuwangi around midnight to make sure you have time to hike up the volcano to see both the blue flame and the sunrise over the sulfur crater. The natural phenomenon is caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases in contact with air at temperatures above 360°C, and you’ll be provided with a gas mask.

YOUR LAST SUNRISE IN JAVA:

You’ll then continue your hike up Mt Ijen to see the sunrise over the sulphur lake. The turquoise sulphur lake is 2148m above sea level and is the largest acidic lake in the world.

Tours can cost anything from 500000 IDR – 2500000 IDR (the most expensive often have an extra activity such as a waterfall).

For my personal experience hiking Mt Ijen and all the information you need to visit, you can read my complete guide here: HIKING IJEN AT SUNRISE – Travel advice for seeing a natural phenomenon – East Java

Here are some photos of what you can expect your last moments in Java to look like. Not bad, huh?

ONWARDS TRAVEL FROM BANYUWANGI

Banyuwangi is the usual access point for Mt Ijen, and the town is accessible by ferry from West Bali or train throughout Java. If you’re starting a Java trip from this Eastern point (making this the first natural stop on your itinerary), the nearest airport is Semarang. You can book buses and trains to Banyuwangi from 12Go Asia .

HOW TO GET AROUND JAVA

Shared cars:.

You can usually book a seat on a shared car/minivan for travel between major destinations. Ask your accommodation if this is possible for getting to your next destination. I took a convenient shared car on my Yogyakarta – Karimunjawa route. Super handy!

PRIVATE CARS:

Suitable for those on a higher budget, this will give you complete control of your itinerary. You can book private cars for both day trips and multi-day trips. Prices will vary hugely depending on the distance/time required each day… and how comfortable you are with bartering with a local!

I found booking local bus journeys very easy, and they helpfully run to and from towns/cities throughout the country. I booked tickets directly at the bus stations. Buses tend to leave when full (but will fill up quick on routes between major cities).

It’s quite an experience, especially for journeys that could be many hours long! Prepare for cramped seats, locals jumping on and off the bus selling various items or even singing in the aisles… Don’t expect to get much sleep or see many other Westerners (I was the only backpacker on mine). That said, I recommend doing this at least once. I’m genuinely glad I did! A great budget option too.

Head to 12 Go to book onwards train journeys. A little more comfortable than the bus and still a great budget option. Perhaps cramped, but you’ll have your own reasonably comfortable seat.

ORGANISED TOURS:

A popular option for people coming from Bali (who often just do Bromo/ Ijen at a high cost) I’d recommend day tours but otherwise think they are unnecessary. Java is a beautiful , chaotic, friendly country, and there’s much to be gained by braving the local transport at least once!

Saying that, I DO recommend a day or even multi-day tour (if your budget allows) for part of your trip. With so many extensive travel days, it can help get an easy ride to Borobudur or Bromo! Particularly for solo travellers or families.

INNER CITY TAXIS:

I did small inner-city trips using go-jek when it was too far (or hot) to walk for as little as 3K IDR per journey – aka very cheap. Before you arrive, download the app, which is basically a super-budget Uber.

Day hire is easy for around 50/60K and is excellent for areas such as Karimunjawa or Yogyakarta. I do NOT recommend using scooters for the entire journey if you’re not experienced – you know Java is enormous, right? – or are solo travellers .

TRAVEL SUSTAINABLY IN JAVA

To avoid using plastic bottles in Southeast Asia , I used a Water To Go bottle.

The filters used in their BPA free water bottles are created based on technology originally developed for the NASA space programme. These provide safe water from any non-salt water source in the world.

Read more on their website and use the code HAG15 if you like what you see to get 15% off.

I really hope my 2 week Java itinerary was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. Thank you!

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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23 comments.

Amazing Java travel guide with stunning photos! I love Indonesia and have been curious about Java. Great job and Thank you!

Wonderful Java travel guide!! Indonesia is such a mystery to me. I look forward to be able to explore it all one day!! Great photos!

I haven’t explored much about Java or Indonesia. Looks beautiful for a couples getaway.

I’m embarrassed I have never heard of Java…nor did I know it is in Indonesia… your photos are beautiful and it motivated me to add Java to my list… looks like a lot of history and natural beauty- I’d spend most of my time outdoors!

Love this comprehensive Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide. So much to do and see…would love to hike here and explore the islands and deserted beaches especially.

Malang was so unique and there is SO much to see in Java/Indonesia for sure.

thanks so much Elle. I loved Java.

This is such a great guide and I love your photos! I really want to visit Kampung Biru.

Java looks amazing! I always hear people write about more common places in Indonesia, but I am so happy to read about somewhere different. Malang especially looks incredible – so colorful!

Ahh thank you, hope this comes in handy if you do

Aww thank you! I don’t think I’ve taken as good photos since ha ha

I really love how informative this post is. I’ve visited Bali in 2018 and would love to go back to Bali and visit Java during that time as well!

I’m really impressed with the quality of your photography – you have a real eye!

Indonesia is huge so totally understandable that we have to do it in bits ❤️

It was an awesome solo travel experience

Aw hope it comes in handy if you go x

This itinerary sounds amazing! Really wish I had more time when I was visiting Bali to make a trip out to Jakarta. Will have to make it happen next time.

Java has been on my list for long. You have given so much info Cassie. Thanks.

I visited Java, solo, a few years ago and loved it. It was such a great experience. Thank you for sharing it.

Bromo is somewhere soo worth the tourism because it is so epic it rises far above the crowds. Definitely recommend Java and Bromo!

Really hoping to make it here in 2020. Mount Bromo looks so exciting to me!

Ahh Melis, would be soo worth it if you were still in Asia! Xx

This place looks an absolute dream! If only I still lived a short flight away in Singapore. It seems like the kind of trip that has absolutely everything you could want – so much variety. Definitely one for the bucket list! Melis

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The Ultimate Java Itinerary for 7 Days from Bali

Are you visiting Java Island for the first time and looking for the perfect 1 week Java, Indonesia Itinerary?

1 week in Java is not enough to discover the whole island. But you can see the most visited places, and at least you’ll have a reason to return to Indonesia.

We’ve put together a detailed Central & East Java Itinerary for 7 days, covering all of Java’s main attractions and some hidden gems.

You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your one-week Java Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

How to Get to Banyuwangi from Bali

Best hotels in banyuwangi, east java, best hotels in malang, east java, best hotels in yogyakarta, central java, no time to read now pin it.

Where is Java, Indonesia?

Java is an island located in Indonesia between Sumatra and Bali. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of Java.

How to Get to Java from Bali

Getting to Java Island may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few ways to get there. You can easily get to Java from Bali by ferry or plane.

The plane is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to Java!

Java has several airports. There are many international flights from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur and domestic flights from other parts of Indonesia, such as Jakarta and Bali.

Buy an eSIM and data package for Indonesia.

From Bali, you can fly to Java from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (airport code DPS).

The flight takes just 1-1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 30-40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

TIP Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Java, Indonesia.

If you follow our Java Itinerary, the easiest way to get to Java from Bali is by ferry. We have a detailed post on  how to get to Java  with all the information you need.

Best Time to Visit Java

Indonesia has two seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.

Java is a popular destination all year round!  But the best time to visit Java is during the dry season, from May to October.

The weather is sunny and dry during these months, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the Java attractions.

Java Island has a tropical climate, hot and humid, and the average temperature is 27°C all year round. However, we recommend you pack warm clothes for the Mount Bromo and  Kawah Ijen  volcano tour.

The busiest time to visit Java is between July and August.

The rainy season in Java runs from November to April. We did this Java Itinerary in May.

TIP In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation and tours in advance!

See also → Things to Do in Java

Hi! We are Dittus & Máté

If you like our content and we’ve helped you with our free travel guide, please consider supporting what we do. Thank you.

Java Itinerary: Central and East Java Route

You can easily modify our Java Travel Itinerary to extend or reduce the days.

Day 1: Arrive in Banyuwangi – East Java Itinerary

Welcome to Java! We hope you had a great ferry journey and are ready to explore Java Island.

Banyuwangi is the perfect place to start your East Java Itinerary. Depending on when you arrive in Banyuwangi, you can choose to start exploring the town or relax at the accommodation.

We rented a motorbike for the next day. After that, we checked into a hotel where we could sleep for a few hours before the trek. Then, at midnight, we started our tour by motorbike to Mount Ijen Volcano.

TIP Make the most of your experience by visiting the Ijen and Mt Bromo volcanoes on a  3-day tour from Bali.

The easiest way to get from Bali to Java is to travel from Gilimanuk Harbour to the Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi.

The ferry departs approximately every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So there is no need to book in advance!

The boat ticket is only 13,000 IDR (0.85 USD) per person, and the journey takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

Once you arrive at Ketapang Ferry Port, you can reach Banyuwangi in about 20 minutes by taxi.

Recommended post → How to Get from Bali to Java

Day 2: Mount Ijen Crater Tour – A highlight of your Java Itinerary

Mount Ijen hike is a must-do in Indonesia, so you can’t miss it on your Java Itinerary. Kawah Ijen is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the world’s largest acidic lake and the famous Blue Fire.

The public transport in Banyuwangi is limited, so the best way to reach the Kawah Ijen Volcano is to rent a motorbike or join an organized tour.

The journey takes about 1 hour from Banyuwangi to Mount Ijen. If you want to see the famous Blue Fire, we recommend you arrive at 1 AM.

Important note Due to volcanic activity, you can only start hiking at 4 AM, and it is not allowed to descend to the lake. Therefore, the natural phenomenon of electric Blue Flame at Kawah Ijen is unfortunately not visible. You should check for up-to-date information before you travel!

Once you arrive, you can buy your entrance ticket and rent a headlamp, gas mask, or warm clothes. It takes 1.5-2 hours to get from the parking lot to the Mount Ijen Crater Rim.

If you don’t want to do the Kawah Ijen hike independently, we recommend booking your tour via GetYourGuide.

After the tour, have breakfast, return to your accommodation, and spend the day relaxing. But if time is limited, you can continue your Java Itinerary and travel to Malang by private driver or taxi.

The trains only run in the early morning hours between Banyuwangi and Malang, so we recommend traveling onwards the next day. Book your train tickets  HERE.

We decided to relax and spent 2 nights in Banyuwangi.

Read the full post → How to Climb Kawah Ijen Volcano

Where to Stay in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi is a town in East Java and the gateway to the Ijen volcano for hikers.

If you want to make the most of your trek, you can camp at the Kawah Ijen.  The camping fee is just 5,000 IDR (0,35 USD).

You can spend 1-2 days in Banyuwangi, these are our accommodation recommendations.

• Mid-Range:   Aston Banyuwangi Hotel  or  eL Hotel Banyuwangi
• Budget:   Banana Homestay

Day 3: Travel to Malang and Visit Jodipan Colorful Village

Good morning! It’s time to continue your East Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Malang.

The distance between Banyuwangi and Malang is 305 km, and the travel time is approximately 7 hours. As the journey is long, we recommend you bring water and some snacks.

From Banyuwangi to Malang, train tickets start from 62,000 IDR (4 USD) per person. The train is the cheapest way to travel in the Java itinerary.

TIP You can easily buy train tickets at the Ketapang railway station, but we recommend booking online with 12Go!

Since you will arrive in Malang in the early afternoon, you will have enough time to walk around the Jodipan Colorful Village and visit the Blue Village.

Hungry? Here are our recommendations for the best restaurants in Malang.

As the village of Jodipan is not so crowded, you can visit at any time of day and explore the streets, find the best photo spots, and talk with locals.

From Jodipan, you can easily get to the Blue Village on the other side of the bridge. Plan at least 2-3 hours to explore the Rainbow and Blue Village.

TIP If you have a drone, bring it with you because the views from above are stunningly beautiful.

Keep reading → Things to Do in Malang

Day 4: Take a Day Trip to Mount Bromo – A popular place on your Java Itinerary

A visit to Mount Bromo Volcano is the highlight of every Java Itinerary, and you can easily take a day trip from Malang to Mount Bromo.

Mt Bromo is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the beautiful sunrise and take the epic crater rim walk.

Group tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, jeep ride, entrance fee, and breakfast.  Pick-up time usually starts at midnight! Book your Mount Bromo sunrise tour via  Viator.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Mount Bromo takes 2-2.5 hours.

Once you arrive at the jeep parking lot, you can walk to the Penanjakan Bromo viewpoint, where most people watch the sunrise.

TIP Get the most out of your day trip and book a Mount Bromo sunrise and Madakaripura Waterfall tour  HERE.

Recommended post → Mount Bromo Guide with Best Viewpoints

Day 5: Visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Are you looking for the best things to do near Malang, Java? Tumpak Sewu is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia and a highlight on your East Java Itinerary.

Tumpak Sewu translates from the Javanese language to mean “Thousand Waterfalls” and is 120 meters high.

The best way to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is to  join a day trip from Malang.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall takes 2-3 hours.

From the parking lot, you can reach the impressive viewpoint in about 10 minutes and enjoy a fantastic view of the waterfall.

After that, a challenging hike leads to the waterfall, and depending on your fitness level, the tour takes at least 45 minutes.

Book a multi-day tour,  including Mount Bromo and the Kawah Ijen.

Read the full post →   Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Guide

Where to Stay in Malang

If you plan to visit Bromo Volcano and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Malang is the best base. These are our accommodation recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Shalimar Boutique Hotel
• Mid-Range:   Harris Hotel  or  Hotel Tugu Malang
• Budget:   Ibis Styles Malang

Day 6: Travel to Yogyakarta – A featured destination in the Java Itinerary

Good morning! It’s time to continue your Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Yogyakarta, Central Java.

The best and most comfortable way to get from Malang to Yogyakarta is by train. The journey time is approximately 6-7 hours, and depending on the type of ticket, train tickets start from 230,000 IDR (15 USD) per person.

Book your train tickets.

Alternatively, you can travel by night bus, but the journey takes at least 12 hours. Damri bus tickets start from 15 USD per person.

Once you arrive in Yogyakarta, start exploring the city’s attractions. Visit the Taman Sari Water Castle & Underground Mosque and walk through the famous Malioboro Street.

You can explore Malioboro Street independently or join a  guided walking and food tour  in Yogyakarta.

Malioboro is the perfect place to shop, eat, and offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Taman Sari Water Palace is just a 10-minute drive from the famous Malioboro Road and is easily accessible. Plan to spend 1-2 hours around Taman Sari.

TIP Add an extra day to your Central Java Itinerary and take a day trip to Jomblang Cave.

Day 7: Visit Borobudur and Prambanan Temple

Most people will only do the East Java route, skipping Central Java, but in our opinion, visiting the temples of Prambanan and Borobudur is a must-see in the Java Itinerary.

The best way to visit Prambanan & Borobudur Temple is to join a day trip from Yogyakarta.

Important note At the moment, the Borobudur and Prambanan temples are closed every Monday, so check for up-to-date information before you travel!

We recommend watching the sunrise at the  Borobudur Temple  and combining your visit with the magnificent Prambanan Temple at sunset. Prambanan Temple is just a 1.5-hour drive from Borobudur.

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.  The three main temples are dedicated to the most important Hindu gods, like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Shiva’s shrine is the tallest at 47 meters and offers the most beautiful scenery.

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world!  Buddhists and many tourists come from all over the world to visit this important pilgrimage place.

Book the best Borobudur Sunrise and Prambanan tour through  GetYourGuide , where you can get great prices.

See also → Yogyakarta Guide

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

Although Yogyakarta is a popular tourist destination in Java, accommodation options are available for all budgets.

The city has good restaurants and great places to shop. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta
• Mid-Range:   The Victoria Hotel Yogyakarta
• Budget:   Java Villas Boutique Hotel & Resto

Day 8: Combine your Java Itinerary with Lombok or leave Java

We hope you enjoyed your Java, Indonesia Itinerary! But it’s time to leave Java and travel back to Bali or visit Lombok.

The easiest way to get from Yogyakarta to Bali is to take a short domestic flight. The flight takes just 1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

Yogyakarta has an International Airport,  the Yogyakarta Kulon Progo International Airport (airport code YIA). The distance between Yogyakarta Airport and the city center is 47 km, and the travel time is approximately 1.5-2 hours.

TIP Use Skyscanner to get cheap flights to Bali, Indonesia.

Alternatively, you can fly directly from Yogyakarta to Lombok. The journey takes just 1.5 hours, and tickets start from 90 USD (without luggage) per person.

Come to Lombok and visit the epic beaches, go snorkeling or surfing, see the stunning waterfalls, and if you’re looking for an adventurous activity, hike the famous hiking trails.

Recommended post →   2 Weeks in Lombok

Java Travel Guide: FAQ about Java Itinerary

Is java worth visiting.

Absolutely, we loved exploring Java!

The island of Java is home to beautiful temples, breathtaking waterfalls, volcanoes, tea plantations, and friendly Javanese people.

TIP You can also start your Java Itinerary in Central Java by flying from Bali to Yogyakarta Airport (airport code YIA).

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Indonesia and apply for an e-visa online.

Is it Safe to Travel to Java Island?

Yes, Java is generally safe. However, always keep an eye on your valuables and beware of pickpockets!

Make sure you have travel insurance! If you rent a motorbike, drive carefully, always wear a helmet, and avoid driving at night!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

How to Get Around Java

The best way to get around on your Java Itinerary is by train and rent a motorbike. On Java Island, trains are modern, cheap, and comfortable. Book your train tickets HERE.

We recommend travel between cities by train, and within the towns rent a motorbike and explore the sights at your own pace.

Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or join an organized tour to reach the sights.

How many Days do You Need in Java?

Most people spend 7 days to explore Java on their first visit.

But if you can, we recommend spending at least 10 days on the island and exploring the best places at your own pace.

TIP Save money, avoid ATM transaction fees when going abroad, and pay in local currency with a Wise Card.

Central & East Java Itinerary Map

We hope our 1 week Java Travel Itinerary will help you plan your next trip to Indonesia. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go

RECOMMENDED POSTS

9 Best Things to Do in Java, Indonesia

7 Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

5 Epic Things to Do in Malang, Indonesia

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The ultimate 10 day java travel itinerary.

Java is one of my favourite islands in Indonesia. It has so much to offer, from amazing volcanoes, beautiful beaches, surfing, stunning tea fields and country sides, epic waterfalls and much more. It’s an island that will allow you to experience a variety of amazing things to do in Indonesia, all in one epic island! We spent 10 days in Java, so I thought it would be perfect for me to write a 10 day Java Itinerary to help you plan your adventures. 

So let’s get to it! 

Interactive map of our Java itinerary

Travellerspoint

Our Awesome 10 Day Java Itinerary 

Stop 1: Jakarta: 1 night 

Jakarta is actually the capital of Indonesia, and it’s a great place to start your Java adventures. Since it’s the capital, flights from all over the world are possible here. Plus I actually think Jakarta is a good place to start as you can pick up a sim card, and stock up on any last minute items you may need. The shopping is amazing in Jakarta! 

You’ll only be flying “into” Jakarta, you won’t need to return. You can check Skyscanner for the best flights. 

Where to stay:  Pop! Hotel

Stop 2: Bandung: 2 nights 

It’s super easy to get to Bandung from Jakarta. 

You’ll be pleased to hear that Java has a very very well established train network, so getting through the whole country is easy, cheap and super convenient. As far as trains go, they are modern, comfortable and clean! (much better than the trains I experienced in India). 

We left from Gambir station in Jakarta and it took around 3.5 hours to Bandung, costing around 100,000 IDR (approx $7). 

Bandung is very different to Jakarta. It’s located in West Java, but really the charm in Bandung is once you get out of the main city and head to the highlands where it’s a colder climate which means it’s got some unique and amazing sights. 

Bandung offers beautiful tea fields, an active volcano that you can literally drive up to…..(awesome!), a pretty cool floating market, flower gardens and much much more. It’s the perfect place to rent a moped and just explore the stunning countryside of Java. There are also some really cool “glamping” spots in Bandung, which I didn’t know about before I visited, otherwise I would have stayed in one of those, so now that you know, take full advantage! 

I’ve done a whole guide on great things to do in Bandung. 

2 nights is sufficient to see Bandung, but you’ll probably have to choose between seeing the north or south, if you want both, you may need another night. However, I think north Bandung offers you more. 

Stop 3: Yogyakarta- 3 nights 

Next up, it’s time to visit probably the most famous backpacker destination in Java, Yogyakarta, also known as Jogjakarta. 

You can get to Yogyakarta from Bandung via train, but it does take around 8 hours. I actually found the journey to be quite pleasant, and we just watched movies and relaxed. Now we did our train journey in the day time, so we “lost” a day of sightseeing as such, but that’s included in the itinerary, however you can get an overnight train if you wish. The train costs around 260,000 IDR (approx $19)

Another option is to fly from Bandung to Yogyakarta, which will be more expensive than the train, but it’s actually quite cheap for an internal flight, so if you are short on time, that is another option. 

Yogyakarta is one of my favourite places in all of Java. It’s bursting with amazing things to see, and you’ll need a whole day just to dedicate time to seeing the amazing temples: Borobudur temple and Prambanan temple. I suggest you do a sunrise tour at the former and visiting the latter in the evening. In between you can check out some of the other sights in Yogyakarta city centre. 

You’ll definitely need another day (or more) to explore the countryside of Yogyakarta. Once you rent a moped and drive outwards you’ll discover stunning views, amazing rice paddies, beautiful mountains, beaches and so much more.

Read my guide on the best things to do in Yogyakarta for more inspiration. 

Stop 4: Malang- 3 nights 

Malang is the final stop on our 10 day Java itinerary. Malang is located in East Java and it’s my favorite place to visit in Java. It was amazing. 

Getting to Malang again is very easy from Yogyakarta by train. It takes around 7 hours and costs around 165,000 IDR (approx $12). You can either do an early morning train like Brad and I did, or do an overnight train (although I’m not 100% sure they’re possible!) 

When you get to Malang you’re going to be super busy! You can visit the amazing Jodpian rainbow village, and other city centre sights, but what you really want to do is rent a moped and drive to the amazing waterfalls that surround the city.

A full day is needed to explore Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, and there are many other small waterfalls, tea fields and flower gardens to the east of Malang which require a full day of sightseeing, and then you’re going to want to do an epic Mount Bromo sunrise tour. 

If you only do one thing when you go to Malang, the Mount Bromo sunrise tour should be it, trust me. You can book your tour from Malang right here! 

Read Also: Ultimate Guide On The Best Things To Do In Malang

Total: 9 nights= 10 days in Java! 

You may need to incorporate a few overnight trains into your 10 day Java itinerary, but Bradley and I managed to see it all in this time frame too, so you can too. We were exhausted by the end of it, but it was amazing to get to see and experience so many amazing things on the island of Java. 

Based on our itinerary you can fly out of Malang to your home destination, or even get a train to the city of Surabaya and fly from there.  

If you’re only looking for a 7 day Java Itinerary, then add on a Mount Ijen tour too which is known for the famous “blue crater”, this requires typically an overnight tour to visit this, so I would only suggest this if you’ve got time for 2 weeks in Java. 

Getting around Java

I’ve actually done a post on getting around Indonesia which will help you plan your Java itinerary. However what I will discuss some of your best options for Java below:

• ‍ Train travel: 100% the best way to get around Java is by train. It’s cheap, it’s comfortable, it’s modern, and it’s easy. Everything is electronic based too, so you can book your tickets via an app, scan the app at the train station, get your tickets then pop on the train to your chosen seats. For booking train tickets in Java, we used a website called Tiket which was modern, fast and cheap. Or you can check 12Go Asia who are also brilliant for planning your 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Bus travel: You will be able to get buses to and from different destinations around Java, but since I didn’t use a single bus, I can’t really give you any advice on the experience. I wouldn’t understand why you would choose the bus over train as it will be longer, and whilst it could be slightly cheaper, it would be less comfortable. But if you do want to travel by bus, you can get 12Go Asia to help find seats.  ‍
• Flying : If you’re short on time, or money isn’t an option, then you could fly between destinations. All of the major cities of Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Malang all have airports, and you can fly internally within Java and to other Indonesian islands (and beyond for some airports). Of course flying like that won’t do anything for your carbon footprint, but if you’ve only got a 1 week Java Itinerary in place and want to see it all, then it is an option. Check Skyscanner for the best flights.  ‍
• Moped : One of our initial plans was to rent a moped in Bandung and hopefully drive it all over Java, unfortunately there are laws in the individual states that prevent you from taking a moped out of a particular area, so that dream was crushed! :P But when you are in each destination, you can easily rent a moped to get around. There are places to rent mopeds in all the places I’ve listed on this 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Grab : Grab is available all over the island of Java and it’s an easy way to get around each individual area. Whether you need a lift to your hotel from the train station, or to sights within the city centre, Grab is a great choice. 

I hope you’ve found this 10 day Java Itinerary useful and hopefully it will help you plan your trip! If you’ve got any questions then please drop me a comment below.  ‍

Read Also: 26 Best Things To Do In Java

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10-Day Backpacking Central And East Java Itinerary: The Best of Java

When you think of Indonesia, you are probably imagining its abundance of white sand beaches, rice terraces and the mystical temples of  Bali , but if you’re hungry for an adventure, then you might want to consider Java.

Java is the second largest island in Indonesia and is teeming with rich, unspoiled nature, authentic and lively cities, over 45 ACTIVE volcanoes and the nicest people you will ever meet. Strangely, tourism hasn’t spoilt its natural beauty yet. So, if you want to go… go now!

All you need is 10 days in Java to see the best attractions, and we will show you how in our 10-day Java itinerary below. Enjoy!

Java Tourist Map

Above is a personalized interactive map that summarizes your Java 10-day itinerary. Click on the map and it will take you to Google Maps where you will find more details about the places to visit in Java.

If you have questions about the Java itinerary map, leave a comment down below!

How To Get To Java, Indonesia

If you are wondering how to get from Bali to Java, it’s actually quite simple. You can take a shuttle bus from Depensar to Surabaya, crossing the ocean by ferry. This is no easy journey and takes around 12 hours in total.

Make sure you check out local tour operators who can book your bus for you. We would recommend  Perama Tour , while we have not used them personally, they come highly recommended. From what I hear, doing it yourself only puts you at risk of being touted, and hassled at the ferry port.

While it is quite safe traveling around Indonesia, you should still exercise caution and you don’t want to ruin your trip before you’ve even stepped foot in Java!

Another alternative is to fly direct to Java from Bali. This is a much more preferred route; it’s only an hour’s flight and flights are relatively cheap.

Budget airlines such as Air Asia and Lion Air operate flights around 3 times a day for as little as 55 USD (at the time of writing), and for that price, it’s hardly breaking the bank and saving you tons of time.

Regardless of where you are traveling from, our 10-day backpacking Java itinerary starts from the capital city of East Java, Surabaya; a vibrant and colorful city with a lot to offer.

10 Days In Java: The Perfect Central And East Java Itinerary

Day 1: surabaya.

As we only have 10-days to explore this incredible island, we are not going to hang around in Surabaya. If you have more time at the end of your trip, we would recommend staying a few days and enjoying the scenic city-life and taking in its rich culture.

Surabaya is the second-largest city in Java (the first being Jakarta), but it is still not wildly touristy and as such, I wouldn’t say there was anything mind-blowingly interesting to do there. However, is is a convenient location to start your Java backpacking journey! One of the best things to do in Surabaya is to visit China Town and eat to your heart’s content.

But we’re not gonna do that now. First, we are going to head straight to the wilderness to hike the most famous volcano in all of Java, Mount Bromo. The drive from Surabaya to Mount Bromo national park takes about 1.5 hours, so you can explore the city before you leave.

There are many tour companies that can take you on a 3 day (4 night) expedition around the most famous landmarks in the region; Mount Bromo, Volcano Ijen, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and, if you fancy it, Malang Rainbow Village.

We would recommend Surabaya Bromo Tour who provides you with a driver, an air-conditioned van, accommodation (you can choose to book your own accommodation, but it works out cheaper if you use theirs), breakfast at the hotels, an unlimited supply of water, a guide at Volcano Ijen, gas mask at Volcano Ijen, Tumpak Sewu, and all entrance fees, petrol and toll tickets.

All you need to cover is lunch, dinner, a FWD jeep at Mount Bromo and any other expenses. This tour package costs around 6,250,000 IDR (450 USD), but given that it covers you for three days, it’s a price worth paying. You can find lots of tour operators in Surabaya that offer similar packages, but prices tend to be around the same.

Alternatively, you can do what I did, and go to a Facebook group and ask for recommendations of a driver and pay him directly, cutting out the middle-man…but this is rather risky. Of course, you could also rent a car and do this whole itinerary yourself, if you’re feeling adventurous enough!

If you are looking to pre-book with a reputable company,  check here for more details!

Day 2: Mount Bromo

If you want to hike Mount Bromo, you have to catch it at sunrise. Okay, getting up at 3 am is never fun, but I promise you it’s worth it.

If you have booked a tour, you will leave your hotel at around 3:30 am by FWD jeep to the Lookout point. The drive to the Lookout point is about an hour from the hotel, so you will get there just in time for sunrise.

From the lookout point, you will be amazed as you watch the sun rise from the East, lighting up Mount Bromo and in the far distance, the very active Volcano Semeru. This iconic view is postcard beautiful no matter what time of year you visit.

Be warned though, at 2000m above sea level, it can be a bit chilly at the Lookout so make sure you wear warm clothing.

Once the sun has risen, you’re ready to hike the volcano. Don’t worry, although Mount Bromo is still an active volcano, it is safe to hike to the crater. The FWD jeep is a lot of fun and takes you across a sandy desert to the base of the volcano.

Here you can stop to get a picturesque view of the volcano before you hike it, or just enjoy the ride. From the base of the Volcano, you have two options; hike on foot, or rent a horse.

It’s the dead of night, and you’re in the car driving some 2 hours from a luxurious hotel to a dirty, muddy car park. At this point, you’re probably feeling quite tired and wondering if it’s all going to be worth it. The short answer is, YES!

I reached the car park to the Volcano Ijen hike at around 1:00 am and was met by my guide, a local man who spoke very good English…but didn’t like to speak. I was hiking with a Korean family and the four of us set off together in the total darkness.

Our guide gave us a torch and a gas mask at the beginning of the hike, but even with our torchlight, it was still quite hard to see.

The hike itself is not too strenuous, at least not by my standards. If you are someone who does no exercise at all, you might find it quite challenging. For the moderate-level hiker, it will be okay. It is only a 2km hike, and it flattens out every so often, so there are plenty of chances to take a break.

If you’re really worried about the hike, you can hire someone to push you in a little cart (yes, seriously) but this is very expensive. If you hire a cart, it comes with three men to push you all the way to the crater’s edge…three men because they take it in turns to push you.

I don’t know how much this costs, because I felt like I still had working legs and thought this was almost as pointless as the horse at Mount Bromo, but if you’re old or disabled or have a phobia of hiking you might want to consider this.

After a good night’s sleep, you’re ready to take on the next part of your adventure; Tumpak Sewu. Anyone that has fallen in love with the  waterfalls in Bali  such as the  Nungnung waterfall and Tukad Cepung will surely enjoy Tumpak Sewu. It is arguably the most impressive waterfall in Java, spanning a total of 120 meters high. 

To get there, you will need to venture yet another hike. Do not underestimate this hike, the ground is slippery from the moisture of the vegetation around you and it can be quite steep in places.

You must also walk through a waterfall and cross a rickety bridge, so make sure you wear waterproof and durable shoes. Saying that, my guide did the whole thing barefoot and chain-smoking cigarettes…I think I want to marry him.

The hike takes around 30-40 minutes and ends at the lustrous green base of the waterfall. Here you can witness the waterfall in all its glory and bask in its cool spray.

There are lots of cool photo spots, so you’ll probably find you want to stay there for some time to get the best shot.

A newly-opened hostel in Yogyakarta, Wonderloft Hostel Jogja is a hidden gem. For an incredibly low price, the hostel offers comfortable dormitory beds (some capsule-styled) and a friendly and cozy atmosphere. The staff makes this hostel feel like a home! Don’t miss it when you are visiting Java!

Best Hotel In Yogyakarta –  The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta

The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta is one of the few 5-star hotels in Yogyakarta. However, unlike most 5-star hotels where spend your child’s college tuition, the Phoenix Hotel is very affordable. I typically don’t recommend 5-star hotels because they are just excessive after a certain point but if it’s cheap, why not? The old and charming architecture along with the beautiful settings of the hotel will surely make you fall in love. If not, then why don’t you head over to the spa? It is game over at that point.

Day 9-10: Surabaya

From Yogyakarta to Surabaya, the train ride takes around 4.5 hours, so we would recommend leaving late morning and taking the day to travel.

The train is pretty comfortable and is well air-conditioned. It was also reasonably priced at 200,000 IDR (14 USD) for this luxury. From the train, you can see the incredible countryside views of Central and East Java, which never gets tiresome.

You will arrive in Surabaya at around mid-afternoon, and here you can explore China Town for some of that good grub that I mentioned before.

On day ten, your final day in Java, you are probably planning on flying to your next destination. Depending on what time your flight is, read on for some of our top places to check out before leaving Surabaya.

If you are not flying from Surabaya, then you might like to do one of these activities at the start of your Java trip.

Things To Do In Surabaya, East Java

1. Surabaya Submarine Monument, Also Known As Monumen Kapal Selam (Monkasel)

This historic monument is fashioned from an old Russian submarine. It is the largest submarine monument in Asia and was built by Navy Veterans.

The submarine retired in 1962 and was used as a destroyer vessel, designed to protect the occupants from enemy ships. It’s kinda cool to look at and does not take too long to see. The entrance fee costs 8,000 IDR (60 cents)

2. House of Sampoerna

The House of Sampoerna is a cigarette factory turned tobacco museum. The architecture alone gives you a real feel for the Dutch colonial-era, and it is now a well-maintained historical site. The museum is interesting enough and provides a good education to Surabaya’s manufacturing culture, and it’s free!

Where To Stay In Surabaya, East Java

Best Hostel In Surabaya –  Livinn Hostels Gubeng Station Surabaya

Livinn Hostels Gubeng Station Surabaya is the epitome of a hostel. Shared dormitory-style rooms, friendly vibes, and an owner that really cares about the guests. Though this place might not seem like the poshest place to stay at, I highly recommend it for travelers solo backpacking Java! You will meet many like-minded backpackers here!

Best Hotel In Surabaya –  Hotel Majapahit Surabaya

Hotel Majapahit Surabaya is a luxurious 5-star hotel with an affordable price in Surabaya. Everything from the decor to the professional staff and the incredible amenities ooze comfort and charm. Don’t miss this gem in Surabaya!

Packing List For 10 Days Java Backpacking Trip

For your 10-day Java itinerary, you will go from some of the most magnificent waterfalls in Indonesia to some of the most impressive volcanoes in the world. You will venture into the jungles of  Java. 

The weather will go from humidly hot to fairly cold, especially when hiking in the early mornings. That is why you will need a comprehensive packing list for Java!

Besides the essentials of every trip such as clothing and toiletries, here are the items you should bring:

• Sunscreen  – This is a no-brainer. Sunscreen is especially important at high-altitude, such as when you are hiking volcanoes in Java.
• Insect Repellent with Picaridin  – Insect repellent is a must for any trip to Indonesia, and Java is no exception.
• Filtration Water Bottle  – A filtration water bottle has become a travel essential. The ability to drink from any water source is amazing. Don’t worry about getting sick from drinking dirty water anymore!
• Proper Rain Jacket ( Him / Her ) – We traveled during the rainy season and a rain jacket is a necessity. Even outside of the rainy season, Java is known to receive quite a bit of rain.
• Travel Medicine Kit  – A travel medicine kit is another travel essential. Containing various medicines for many kinds of illnesses, you can get the proper first-aid you need just in case something happens! Obviously, it doesn’t replace  travel insurance .
• Hiking Boots ( Him / Her ) -The hikes on this Java itinerary are quite hikes, especially Mount Bromo ad Ijen Volcano. I would recommend having proper hiking boots! You don’t want an accident up those mountains!
• Water Shoes  – Water shoes are imperative for your hike at Tumpak Sewu. The waterfalls and mud you will have to hike through will damage your nice shoes. Proper water shoes are secure and offer comfort when hiking in water.
• Warm Clothing  – When you are hiking Bromo and Ijen Volcanoes, the altitude is over 2,000m above sea level. Hence, it tends to get quite chilly and windy. Pack some warm clothing to protect yourself against the cold!

Best Time To Visit Java, Indonesia

Java’s geographic location on the earth meant that it has distinct dry and wet seasons. Obviously, the best time to visit Java, Indonesia, is during the dry season, which spans from May to September.

If you can only visit during the wet months, don’t be bumped out. It just means unpredictable heavy rainfalls can happen daily, but they only last for a few hours.

Temperature-wise, Java is a very warm island in general. The temperature is consistently around the low-thirties for most places.

Java Itinerary FAQs

How many days to spend in java.

It is recommended that you spend at least 10 days in Java to see its attractions. The places to visit in Java are quite spread out, and the island is fairly big. Anything less than 10 days would not be enough to cover the island.

Is Java Worth Visiting?

The island of Java is totally worth visiting! It is home to some of the most lush jungles and fascinating volcanoes in Indonesia. Travelers can also marvel at epic UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Borobudur Temple and Mount Bromo!

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So that’s it! 10 days in Java. I hope that you found the advice in this guide helpful and instructive. Any questions? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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5-day Malang Itinerary: Exploring the Heart of East Java

Welcome to Malang, the historical city nestled in the lush landscapes of East Java, Indonesia. With a perfect blend of ancient temples, vibrant street art, and verdant natural parks, Malang offers a feast for the senses that attracts both culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Over the next five days, prepare to immerse yourself in the hidden gems of this enchanting city. From the iconic Mount Bromo to the charming streets of the Jodipan Colorful Village, let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through Malang.

Day 1: Malang’s Colorful Start

Begin your journey with the vibrant colors of Jodipan Colorful Village . Once a slum area, it has been transformed into a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses. The stunning murals and art installations make it a perfect spot for photographers and culture buffs. After exploring the alleyways and maybe picking up a souvenir or two, head over to Malang’s Historical Quarter for a glimpse into the city’s Dutch colonial past.

For lunch, indulge in the local delicacy of Bakso Bakar , grilled meatballs that are a twist on the traditional Indonesian bakso. Spend your afternoon at Kampung Tridi , another marvel of street art that adds a three-dimensional twist.

Recommended Accommodations

Wrap up your day by checking into one of these comfortable stays for a restful night:

• Amanjiwo Resorts – A luxurious retreat nestled in cultural warmth.
• Hotel Tugu Malang – An establishment that takes you back in time with its classic elegance and history.
• Kertanegara Premium Guest House – A modern and cozy option that won’t break the bank.

Day 2: Malang’s Historical Trail

Start your second day with a visit to the Malang Temples; the Singosari Temple and Badut Temple offer an intimate experience with Java’s ancient history. Later, enjoy a serene break at the local Coban Rondo Waterfall where you can freshen up and take in the tranquility of the surrounding forest.

Lunch will be an affair to remember at Rumah Makan Inggil , a restaurant cum museum where you can feast on traditional Javanese cuisine amidst antiques and historical memorabilia. The evening calls for a visit to the bustling Malang Night Market . Here, you can sample an array of local street food, from sweet treats to savory delights. Don’t miss out on trying the famous Es Cendol , a refreshing local dessert perfect for cooling down on a warm night.

Day 3: Nature’s Embrace

Day three takes you into the heart of East Java’s natural splendor. A pre-dawn start will see you journeying to the breathtaking Mount Bromo , an active volcano famed for its stunning sunrise views. Take a jeep tour to the crater’s edge and bask in the awe-inspiring panoramic scenery. After the sunrise, trek down to the Sea of Sand , a vast expanse of volcanic sand that makes for surreal photo opportunities.

Refuel with a hearty breakfast at a local warung before heading to Malang’s Apple Orchards . Here, you can pick fresh apples right off the trees and enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of local produce. Complete your immersion in nature with an afternoon at the Coban Pelangi Waterfall , where you can relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Day 4: Culinary Journeys and Leisurely Pursuits

After immersing in nature, spend your fourth day savoring Malang’s culinary delights. Start with a leisurely brunch at Rawon Nguling Restaurant , known for its savory beef soup. Afterwards, take a stroll in the Alun Alun Malang , the city’s central public square bordered by grand colonial buildings.

In the afternoon, satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the Malang Strudel bakery, famous for its flaky pastry and fruit fillings.

Wrap up the day with a relaxing evening at the Brawijaya Edupark . This education-themed park is a fantastic place for families and offers a serene environment for unwinding after a day of exploration and shopping.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

On your final day in Malang, take things slow. Enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel, savoring a delicious breakfast and perhaps a dip in the pool. Mid-morning, make your way to the Malang Flower Market , a fragrant finale to your trip where you can witness the locals’ love for flowers and gardening.

For your last lunch in the city, revisit one of your favorite spots from the previous days or ask locals for their recommendation to experience something new. Before you head to the airport or your next destination, make sure to stop by the Malang Town Square for any last-minute shopping or simply to enjoy a coffee while reflecting on the memories made over the past five days.

Dining Recommendations: Savor the Flavors

Malang’s cuisine is a delightful journey for the palate. From street food adventures sampling sate and bakso to upscale dining experiences with a view, Malang caters to every taste. Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like Pecel and Rawon at the city’s many warungs.

Adventure Activities: Malang’s Thrill

For the adventure seekers, Malang offers a plethora of activities. Get your heart racing with white water rafting on the Brantas River , explore the hidden depths of Goa Cina beach , or take a paragliding tour to see the city from above.

Conclusion: Selamat Tinggal, Malang!

As your 5-day itinerary comes to an end, you’ll leave Malang with a heart full of memories and a camera full of breathtaking photos. You’ve experienced the cultural richness, tasted the culinary delights, and embraced the natural beauty of this corner of East Java. Malang is a city that often captures the hearts of those who visit, leaving a lasting impression long after they depart.

Whether you’re continuing your journey through Indonesia or heading back home, Malang is sure to remain with you as an unforgettable experience. Selamat tinggal, and we hope to welcome you back to Malang soon!

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5 Days East Java Itinerary — Bondowoso, Baluran and Surabaya

So, I decided to visit Baluran National Park in East Java instead. I spent a few days in Baluran, attempting to make my own wildlife spotting safari (on foot). I did get to see lots of wild animals and birds freely roaming at Baluran’s savannah.

From Baluran, I traveled by land to Surabaya, where I was supposed to catch my flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. While waiting for my departure, I spent a few hours exploring the old city and riverside area of Surabaya.

Itinerary Rundown

Trip Date — March 2012

Itinerary Notes & Tips

Mount bromo to probolinggo.

• The bus was empty and I knew it would take a long time to fill up and depart. So, I contacted Juri, the ojek driver, to take me to Probolinggo
• 9:30am to 10:30am – ride ojek from Cemoro Lawang to Probolinggo (1 hour) – Rp50,000
• 10:30am – Probolinggo arrival. Drop-off at the bus terminal.
• Ride bus from Probolinggo to Bondowoso (3 hours) – Rp12,000
• Information office told me the last trip to Sempol, Palduting, or Ijen left at 10am. They advised me to spend the night in Bondowoso and return to the terminal 7am early morning the next day.

Bondowoso Hotel check-in

• I was ripped off. Staff at Hotel Baru told me the ride should only cost Rp6,000
• Double room (twin beds; private TB) – Rp75,000
• Excellent value! Rooms were clean, spacious, and very cheap for the quality of service.
• Visit Bondowoso Tourist Information Center.
• Staff discouraged me to go to Ijen because of high volcanic activity in the area, at the time.
• Mie Goreng Ayam + Kopi
• Roti bakar (blueberry flavor) – Rp8,000
• Curry with rice
• 12:30nn – Hotel Baru check-out

Bondowoso to Baluran bus

• 2:45pm – Ride bechak to Bondowoso bus terminal – Rp10,000
• 3:30pm – Ride bus to Sito Bondo – Rp6,000
• 4:40pm – Situbondo bus terminal arrival.
• Sate kambing (barbecued goat meat  on skewers; 10 pcs) and rice – Rp20,000
• 5:40pm – Situbondo departure
• 6:45pm – Got stuck in standstill traffic for almost an hour near Baluran because of at least 3 trucks that broke down along the two-lane road. It was also raining very heavily at the time.
• Park entry closed at 4pm. The park rangers did not allow me to enter. Instead, they advised me to sleep at a homestay nearby and come back 8am the next day.
• Hitch ride with a park ranger to Mt. Subakat’s Homestay

Baluran Homestay check-in

• Double fan room (shared TB) – Rp75,000
• Very friendly and accommodating hosts
• 6:30am – wake-up
• Nasi Goreng Ayam + Kopi

Baluran National Park hostel check-in

• Ride ojek (driven by Mr. Subakat himself) to Bekol (pronounced as Buh-khol) savanna within Baluran National Park – Rp35,000 (one-way)
• Entrance ticket for foreigners – Rp20,000
• Entrance ticket for locals (ojek driver) –  Rp2,500
• Motorcycle entry fee – Rp3,000
• Double room (no fan; twin beds; shared TB) – Rp35,000 per person per night
• Late check-out on my second day – Rp17,500 (50% of full nighly rate)

Baluran National Park DIY Solo Walking Tour

• Huge band of long tail Macaques
• More monkeys
• Nasi Goreng Ayam Telur (fried noodles with chicken and egg)
• Minute maid pulpy orange
• Guy working at the park offered me a ride back to Bekol savannah
• 12nn to 4:20pm – continue photo walk in Baluran National Park

Baluran to Surabaya night travel

• 5:00pm – Arranged pick-up by Mr. Subakat from Bekol savanna back to the homestay
• Reserved a seat for 12mn night “travel” (van shuttle transport) from Baluran to Surabaya
• Standby at homestay and wait for “travel”
• Free buffet dinner stopover along the way. Simple menu. Free WiFi at the restaurant.
• 4:45am – Arrival in Surabaya.

Surabaya walking tour

• Soto Ayam + Kopi
• 4:45am to 9:30am – Surabaya City Center walking tour

Surabaya to Kuala Lumpur flight

• Metered fare – Rp103,000
• 1st toll booth – Rp5,500
• 2nd toll booth – Rp2,500
• Airport car entry fee + tip – remaining
•  10:00am – Arrival at Surabaya (Juanda) International Airport
• Club T (Rp6,000)
• Nasi Putih (Rp6,000)
• Ayam Kecap (Rp14,000)
• Check-in for Surabaya to Kuala Lumpur Flight via AirAsia – Rp150,000 airport tax for international flights
• 12:15nn – Departure from Surabaya Airport
• Surabaya to Kuala Lumpur Flight
• 4:00pm – Arrival in Kuala Lumpur Airport

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A 1 Week Backpacking Java Itinerary | Temples, Volcanos & Waterfalls

By: Author Charles

Posted on May 11, 2023

Hands down, one of my favorite places I have visited over the years is the island of Java in Indonesia. While many people skip over Java for the beaches of Bali or the Gili Islands, they are missing out of some of the best that the country has to offer.

From historic temples to stunning waterfalls to volcano trekking, Java has it all and more. This one week backpacking Java itinerary will walk you through it all and how to put together a trip of a lifetime.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

A Backpacking Java Itinerary Overview

Below you can see a day by day breakout of what to expect over a week’s time backpacking Java. The rest of this guide will go through each day in detail and answer many questions you may have along the way.

Java Backpacking Map

Below is a map with the route between the cities going west to east. I have also pin pointed down the rest of the attractions and activities that this itinerary talks about.

How to Get to Java

As you can see in the itinerary overview above, I begin this journey in the central Java city of Yogyakarta before heading eastwards towards the waterfalls, and then finishing up with Bromo and Ijen.

While I will go about this itinerary from west to east, it is important to note that you can decide to do this in the opposite direction – starting at Ijen and finishing in Yogyakarta.

Getting to Yogyakarta (also known as Jogja) will depend on where you will be coming from prior to Java.

The city does have an international airport (JOG) so you can fly in from a couple other countries including Singapore and Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur).

You can also fly into the airport if coming from other places within Indonesia beforehand. Another option is to take a bus or train from Jakarta for example, but I would honestly recommend the quick and cheap flight as those options can take 8+ hours.

If you are doing this itinerary in the opposite direction (starting at Ijen), then you will most likely be coming from Bali beforehand .

To reach Ijen from Bali, you will first want to make your way to the very western end of the island to the Gilimanuk port.

From Gilimanuk you will hop on a super quick boat ride to Ketapang on the island of Java (boats leave constantly between the two). Once off the boat, take a short ride to Banyuwangi, where you will stay before heading over to Ijen.

Java Travel Notes

» This is less so going to be a relaxing vacation and more so going to be a constant adventure . Expect some early wake ups, long days and lots of physical activity.

» While I do consider this mostly a backpacking itinerary as it is exactly what I did when I backpacked the region, not all recommendations here will be the cheapest of options .

This is mostly due to being able to fit in everything mentioned in just one week (i.e. private vs public transport). If you have additional time to spare and want to save even more money, then you can go even cheaper.

» Going off of that point, I would recommend hiring private drivers during some portions of the trip (more so recommended if you are with a group of people) .

You will have instances where you can decide to spend $15 per person (depending on your group size) to have a driver take you somewhere in 5 hours vs. taking $5 public transportation for 10 hours.

» You will see a mixture of hotels and home stays on a trip like this . Expect some accommodations to be simple and just enough for what you need. In some of these places there are few or no real hotel options.

» Mostly everything here will be done in cash so do be sure to have enough of it with you throughout your time in Java (and Indonesia in general)

» Get ready for a mixture of both hot and cold as well. When spending time in the Bromo and Ijen areas, the temperature will drop dramatically so you will want to come prepared for different weather conditions.

A 1 Week Java Itinerary

Now that you have a quick background of the itinerary in general and how to get yourself to either Yogyakarta or Banyuwangi, let’s dive into the day by day details of the trip.

» The itinerary below is assuming you have 7 full days in Java, meaning you will be arriving sometime on day 0 before having a full day to explore Yogyakarta on day 1.

Once you arrive at the Yogyakarta airport, hop in a taxi that will take you to your hotel, where you will stay for the next 2 nights (day 0 and day 1).

Yogyakarta Recommended Hotel (nights 0 & 1) | BOOK TODAY → Melia Purosani Yogyakarta

Day 1 – Yogyakarta Temples

Arguably two of the most famous and important temples in all of Indonesia are the Borobudur and Prambanan Temples, both of which are in the vicinity of Jogja and which can be combined into a perfect day trip.

To go about your trip you can decide between a few different options – 1) have a driver take you around for the day 2) sign up for a group tour from Yogyakarta 3) take the local busses around or 4) rent your own motorbike and go about the day on your own.

You can start your day heading on the 1 hour drive to Borobudur, where you can explore the vast temple complex with volcanoes peeking out in the distance.

A popular option here too is to head there for sunrise as you get to see the first light of the day hitting the temple.

Once you are all set at Borobudur, make the 1.5 hour trip out to Prambanan, another beautiful temple complex.

Not only will you be able to enjoy the main temples here but you can also make the walk around to three other temples in the larger complex – Candi Lumbung, Candi Bubrah, and Candi Sewu.

The trip will end with the drive back to Yogyakarta, where you can end a successful day exploring some of Indonesia’s best temples.

» I would highly recommend that you read the Yogyakarta Temples Guide I put together so you have a better sense on how to go about a day trip there.

Day 2 – Goa Jomblang & Exploring Jogja

» You will want to ask your hotel for a late check out here as you won’t arrive back from Goa Jomblang until 1-2PM.

After temple hopping on day 1 of your Java adventure, it is time to head back out of the city and to the Goa Jomblang cave .

This is not your ordinary cave though. Over the course of a few hours, you will experience a rappel down to the cave entrance, a muddy trek within the cave, and of course the “light from heaven”.

» The Goa Jomblang Cave guide will go over all you need to know about this experience

There are a couple ways to go about a trip to Goa Jomblang depending on how many people you are traveling with. If you are more than 1-2 people, I would recommend hiring a driver for the day to pick you up from your hotel, drive you to the cave, and then drive you back.

This should come out to around $30 total for a group. The other option is to sign up for a group tour from Yogyakarta – I would recommend this if you are traveling solo and want to head out there with other travelers.

The cave itself is no cheap activity though to take part of – around $45 per person. But when it comes to unique experiences to take part of in Java, this is certainly one of them.

You will start off the day at Goa Jomblang by grabbing your mud boots and helmet, before rappelling down to the bottom of the cave entrance.

Once you are at the bottom of this crater, you will make a 30 minute walk through the muddy, dark cave until you reach the end of it.

Here is where you will wait until the sun hits the cave opening at just the right angle and you will see the beams of light streaking through.

After enjoying the light from heaven, it is back on the muddy trek towards the cave entrance, where you will once again rappel back up to safety.

After washing yourself off, you can have the provided lunch before heading back to Yogyakarta in the early afternoon.

Note: many people opt to combine a trip to Goa Jomblang with cave tubing nearby at Goa Pindul. You can choose to do this if interested or you can spend the afternoon checking out some sites in Yogyakarta itself.

Once you make it back to Yogyakarta, you can wash up, change clothes, check out, and start walking around the city. A few of the highlights located within the city center include:

A) Taman Sari Water Castle

This complex was once used by the Sultan for all types of functions. Today, the central bathing area is the most preserved part of the complex and you can spend some time exploring the various rooms and pools around the area.

The entrance fee for the water castle is just 15,000 IDR, only about $1 USD. And be sure to keep your ticket when you visit the underground mosque mentioned next.

B) Sumur Gumuling Underground Mosque

Located less than 10 minutes away by foot from Taman Sari is the Sumur Gumuling Underground Mosque .

While it is located within the original larger complex, to get to the mosque from the water castle, you will need to make your way through some of the surrounding streets.

While not in operation, the mosque is truly impressive, with its various staircases stretching from the bottom to the top of the complex. There are several hallways and rooms to explore as you make your way through.

C) Malioboro Street

At one point or another, you are sure to pass by the main Malioboro Street .

As you walk along the street you are sure to find plenty of smaller markets and shops lined up all throughout. It is a great place to explore during the day and/or night as it is one of the most happening places in the city.

In the evening, you will be hopping on an overnight train from Yogyakarta to the city of Malang in East Java. The train ride is 5-6 hours and you should arrive in Malang very early in the morning around 4AM-6AM. Feel free to check out the train schedules and book your ticket before you go.

Day 3 – Chasing Waterfalls Part I

Right from the Malang train station, you will head directly to the Lumajang Regency – an area full of majestic waterfalls that you will be exploring over the next couple days.

Note: set up a driver beforehand by speaking with your hotel/homestay in Lumajang. They can easily book a driver for you so once you are off the train, you will have someone waiting.

The drive from Malang to Lumajang will take a couple of hours as you catch up on some sleep. Once you arrive in Lumajang, you may want to relax/sleep for a little longer before starting off your day.

During your stay in Lumajang, I would HIGHLY recommend staying at Dear Traveller Guest House.

The owners and staff there were some of the most accommodating during my trip and they will help you with anything you need.

They set up the driver from Malang to the guesthouse, local guides to explore the waterfalls with, and a driver to Bromo. They also cooked all our meals and stayed up to talk and hang out with us in the evening. A truly incredible place with even better people.

Lumajang Accommodation (night 3) | Book Your Stay at the Dear Traveller Guest House

Once you are all ready, it is time to begin day 1 of waterfall trekking as you explore 3 different waterfalls nearby – Kapas Biru , Coban Sriti , and Kabut Pelangi .

While you can technically go to the waterfalls without a guide, I would recommend having one with you to show you the way.

The cost for the day is around $15 total (for an entire group), which includes transportation to the waterfalls and then a guide to take you down and back up safely. Your guesthouse can easily set this up for you as well.

You can expect the actual trekking time to be around 1 hour round trip for each one of these waterfalls. I would say you are looking at anywhere around 1.5-2 hours total for each one, depending on how long you want to spend at the waterfalls themselves.

Day 4 – Chasing Waterfalls Part II

Day 2 of waterfall chasing will take you to the grand finale of them all – Tumpak Sewu. Arguably the most famous waterfalls in Indonesia, Tumpak offers one of the largest and spectacular waterfalls I have ever seen.

On top of enjoying Tumpak Sewu, you will also be able to explore another waterfall located in the same valley – Goa Tetes.

Similar to day 1, I would advise heading off with a guide, who will drive you over to Tumpak and then bring you down into the valley to the waterfalls. Not only is a guide nice to have from a logistical standpoint, it is also a nice thing to help support the local community.

While total trekking time for the two waterfalls should be around 1-1.5 hours, I would plan on spending some additional quality time at both of these waterfalls.

You will also get the chance to enjoy a viewing platform, where you will see the panoramic Tumpak Sewu from up above.

» The Tumpak Sewu and Goa Tetes waterfall guides dive deeper into what to expect at each one of them

After taking in everything that Tumpak Sewu has to offer, it is time to head off to your next destination in Java – Cemoro Lawang. This small town is the base for those that want to enjoy a sunrise over Mount Bromo and a visit to its crater.

Once again, having your homestay set up a driver for you and your group will be your best bet here. Plan on leaving in the afternoon and then making the 4 hour drive from Lumajang to Cemoro Lawang.

Once at your hotel / guesthouse in Cemoro Lawang, you will want to plan to get to sleep on the earlier side. Sunrise over the Sea of Sand with Mount Bromo and several other volcanoes out in the distance is truly one of the top highlights in all of Indonesia.

Note: the village of Cemoro Lawang is mostly filled with small homestays to stay in, however there are some more expensive hotel options as well. I ended up staying at the Cayho Homestay, which was a very basic but affordable option.

Recommended Cemoro Lawang Accommodation (nights 4 & 5) | Cayho Homestay

Day 5 – Mount Bromo

To get to the sunrise spot on top of King Kong Hill, you will need to leave Cemoro Lawang around 3 hours or so prior to sunrise. This will give you enough time to make the walk through town and then up the hill to one of the various viewing spots.

While the walk to the base of the hill is pretty easy and straightforward, the hike in the dark up the mountain can get a bit tougher. You will be gaining some elevation here and will be trekking through the dense trees.

I would advise on bringing a headlamp, as well as layering up to keep warm. Cemoro Lawang is at a much higher elevation (over 7,000 feet) so you can imagine it does get quite cold up there in the early hours of the day.

Once you reach the top of King Kong Hill you can choose from a variety of lookout spots, where you can take in the view of the sunrise over the crater and Cemoro Lawang down below.

» The Mount Bromo Sunrise guide goes into detail on exactly what to expect for the day and how to best prepare for the experience

After enjoying a sunrise, it is back down the hill towards Cemoro Lawang, where you can opt for a nice post hiking meal in town. Whenever you are ready, it is then time to make your way down into the vast crater itself.

Here is where you will take part of the journey through the Sea of Sand. You can do so by walking across yourself, taking a horseback ride, or hopping on the back of a jeep or motorcycle.

After passing through the Sea of Sand you will arrive at the bottom of Mount Bromo itself.

From here, head up the staircase to the crater rim, where you will be able to see the volcanic steam down below and the Sea of Sand all around you.

Make your way back to Cemoro Lawang, where you can take a well-deserved rest.

Day 6 – Madakaripura Waterfall & Travel to Banyuwangi

While much of day 6 may be a travel day to get you closer to Mount Ijen, you will also be able to enjoy another incredible East Java waterfall along the way.

After leaving Cemoro Lawang, you will first make the hour or so drive down to the entrance of Madakaripura . At the entrance you can hop on a motorbike for a few dollars that will take you to the trailhead of the waterfall.

It is then another serene journey, following the river with various waterfalls and greenery in all directions. During this trek you will most certainly get wet as there is a ton of water dripping down the cliff-sides and onto the trail.

After walking through the valley you should soon arrive at the base of this massive waterfall, where you can decide to opt for a swim or just take it all in from land.

It is then back to the car, where you will continue on with your journey towards Banyuwangi for the next 4-5 hours.

Public transportation is also an option here, as you can take a shared taxi from Cemoro Lewang to Probolinggo and then a train or bus to Banyuwangi. If you do decide to do this, you probably won’t be able to head to the waterfall though.

Recommended Banyuwangi Hotel Option (night 6) | Aston Banyuwangi

This will be another evening when you want to get to sleep early as the hike up to the Ijen Crater for sunrise will begin in the middle of the night.

Day 7 – Ijen Volcano & Depart Java

After another early morning (late night?) wakeup, it is time for your second sunrise hike on Java. This time it is to visit Kawah Ijen and its Blue Flames.

I decided to head to Ijen with a local guide (set up beforehand, which also included a round trip transfer), who took our group up and down the volcano. While a guide is not a necessity, it did feel like the easier and more dependable option here.

Ijen is a bit of a different volcano, as there are dangerous fumes coming from the crater down below. Due to this, you must wear a gas mask for a portion of the trail so you do not breathe in the air. If going with a guide, they should have these ready for you beforehand.

If staying in Banyuwangi the drive over will take around an hour until you reach the parking lot.

From there, the trek up should take around 2-2.5 hours, which also may include a side hike down into the crater to see the blue flames. These blue flames occur due to the combustion of the sulfuric gasses but be warned that they are not always seen.

Once at the sunrise area though, you will see the sun come up in one direction, while the crater and its green colored crater lake will be in the other.

It is just a beautiful site to see and definitely one of the more unique hiking experiences I have taken part of over the years. Once all done by the crater rim, it is back down to the parking lot and off to Banyuwangi.

» Read more about the sunrise hike in the Ijen Volcano Trekking guide up on the site

Since you will be arriving back in Banyuwangi by late morning, you should still be able to head back to your hotel to shower and pack up before leaving. I would just be sure that you are able to checkout from your hotel around noon or so.

Up next is up to you! Most likely, the easiest option is to make the trip over to Bali. You can do so by taking the quick ferry over from Ketapang to Gilimanuk on Bali. Once there it is time to enjoy even more that the country of Indonesia has to offer.

You can check out this one week Bali itinerary I put together for more info about what to do there. If you have more time, be sure to head over to Gili Trawangan or Komodo National Park (where you will find highlights such as Padar Island )

And that about wraps up a one week backpacking Java itinerary! As you can see this is going to one jam packed week, but it will one of the best you can ask for. If you do have any questions or comments about the itinerary feel free to add them in below.

Also don’t forget to check out the other Indonesia itineraries and guides up on the site.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Sunday 9th of October 2022

Looking to do similar trip with my 28yr old son early Dec. How long are most of these hikes/walks & do you recommend hiking shoes/boots or just good runners? Did you do anything re possibly getting malaria in Java?

Tuesday 11th of October 2022

Hi Mark - each of the hikes mentioned should have a hiking guide linked so you can learn more details about each one. On average, I would say between 2-5 hours depending on the hike. I would recommend hiking shoes or trail shoes in general. While some hikes may not need them, during others you will find it beneficial. And no, I did not take any malaria pills while on Java but best to ask your doctor about the latest.

Enjoy the trip!

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3D2N Bromo & Ijen - Finish Surabaya

• Departure : 10.30 am
• Start From Surabaya
• 2 Night Accommodation

4D3N Bromo - Ijen - Sewu Waterfall

• 3 Night Accommodation

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– Jaime Lyn Beatty

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• Phone: +62 822 4406 3122
• Email : [email protected]

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