Java & Sumatra
Rainforests, Volcanoes & Ancient Temples
Java & Sumatra- Indonesia’s wild heart and cultural soul
Medan – Tankahan – Bukit Lawang – Jakarta – Bandung – Yogyakarta – Borobudur
Journey across two of Indonesia’s most fascinating islands, combining the untamed rainforests of Sumatra with the cultural treasures and volcanic landscapes of Java.
Beginning in Medan, the journey ventures deep into the tropical wilderness of Tangkahan and Bukit Lawang, where dense rainforest, river landscapes and the possibility of encountering wild orangutans create an unforgettable experience. From Sumatra, fly onward to Jakarta before travelling through the highlands and cultural heart of Java.
Discover Bandung, surrounded by volcanic scenery and traditional Javanese culture, before continuing by scenic rail to Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java. Here, explore the Sultan’s Palace and the city’s rich artistic traditions, followed by sunrise at magnificent Borobudur and an exploration of the extraordinary Hindu temples of Prambanan.
The result is a diverse Indonesian journey blending wildlife, rainforest, indigenous culture, history, spirituality and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Highlights
Wilderness of Sumatra.
Gunung Leuser National Park for orangutans.
Trekking and river tubing around Tangkahan.
Natural beauty of Bukit Lawang.
Multicultural character of Jakarta.
Volcanic landscapes surrounding Bandung.
Scenic train to Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta’s royal heritage and the Sultan’s Palace.
Buddhist monument of Borobudur.
Hindu temple complex of Prambanan.
Tangkahan rainforest
Day 01
Arrive Medan, Gateway to Sumatra
Begin your Indonesian adventure with your international flight to Medan, the bustling capital of North Sumatra. Upon arrival, meet your local representative and transfer into the city. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to rest after your journey or take an initial glimpse of Medan’s energetic streets and distinctive multicultural character.
Day 02
Medan – Tangkahan | Into the Rainforest
After breakfast, leave Medan behind and travel by private vehicle towards Tangkahan, a remote wilderness gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park. The journey gradually leaves the urban landscape behind, passing through rural communities and lush tropical countryside before reaching the rainforest. Tangkahan lies deep within one of Sumatra’s most important forest regions and provides an opportunity to experience the island’s remarkable natural environment away from the larger centres. Later, accompanied by a local naturalist guide, set out on a guided rainforest walk, exploring the surrounding jungle and learning about its extraordinary flora and wildlife
Day 03
Tangkahan | Rainforest, Rivers & Wildlife
Today is devoted to discovering the wilderness around Tangkahan. Set out into the rainforest on a combination of nature trekking and river exploration. Follow forest trails through dense tropical vegetation while keeping watch for birds, butterflies, monkeys and other wildlife inhabiting the national park. A gentle river tubing experience adds another dimension to the day as you experience the rainforest from the waterways that wind through this remote landscape. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax amidst the tranquillity of the jungle or, if you wish, undertake another short nature walk with a local guide.
Day 04
Tangkahan – Bukit Lawang | Into Orangutan Country
After breakfast, depart Tangkahan and travel overland towards Bukit Lawang, another important gateway to the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park. The journey takes you deeper into rural Sumatra, with changing landscapes of villages, plantations and tropical forest along the way. On arrival in Bukit Lawang, meet your guide and venture into the surrounding rainforest. This region is particularly renowned for its wild and semi-wild orangutans, and your first forest walk offers the possibility of observing these remarkable primates in their natural environment. Return later to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this riverside rainforest community.
Day 05
Bukit Lawang | Orangutans of Gunung Leuser
Today brings a deeper exploration of the rainforest surrounding Bukit Lawang. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, trek along forest trails in search of Sumatra’s orangutans and other rainforest wildlife. The forest is alive with birdsong and the calls of primates, while towering trees and dense vegetation create an extraordinary tropical setting. The pace is deliberately unhurried, allowing time to observe the forest environment and appreciate the delicate ecosystem that supports its diverse wildlife.
Day 06
Bukit Lawang – Medan – Jakarta | From Sumatra to Java
After breakfast, leave Bukit Lawang and drive back towards Medan for your onward flight to Jakarta, Indonesia’s sprawling capital.
Upon arrival in Jakarta, meet your guide and transfer into the city.
Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day can be spent at leisure, offering an opportunity to relax or begin discovering the contrasting character of modern Jakarta.
Orangutang
Sultan’s Palace
Day 07
Jakarta – Bandung | From Capital to the Highlands
After breakfast, depart Jakarta and travel towards Bandung, the cooler highland city surrounded by mountains and volcanic landscapes. On arrival, begin exploring the cultural side of West Java. Visit a traditional arts centre where you can experience aspects of Javanese performing arts and craftsmanship, gaining an insight into the island’s enduring artistic traditions. The combination of Bandung’s highland setting and its rich cultural heritage makes this an intriguing transition between the urban character of Jakarta and the historic heart of Central Java.
Day 08
Bandung – Yogyakarta | Scenic Journey Across Java
After breakfast, transfer to the railway station for a scenic train journey across western and central Java towards Yogyakarta. The journey provides a fascinating glimpse into the changing landscapes of Java, passing through rural settlements, agricultural areas and lush countryside. Arrive in Yogyakarta, Java’s celebrated cultural capital, and transfer to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring the lively streets and artistic character of the city.
Day 09
Yogyakarta | Royal Heritage & Cultural Traditions
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Yogyakarta, a city where Javanese traditions, royal heritage and contemporary artistic life exist side by side. Visit the Kraton, or Sultan’s Palace, the historic centre of Javanese royal culture. Explore the palace precincts and gain an insight into the traditions, customs and ceremonial heritage of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. Continue with a city exploration encompassing the historic quarters and local cultural highlights. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to explore Yogyakarta independently, browse its craft shops and galleries or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this fascinating city.
Day 10
Yogyakarta | Sunrise at Borobudur & Prambanan
Rise early this morning for one of the defining experiences of the journey — a visit to Borobudur for sunrise. Set amid the volcanic landscapes of Central Java, this extraordinary Buddhist monument is one of Indonesia’s most significant historical and spiritual landmarks. As dawn breaks, the silhouettes of its stupas and surrounding landscape emerge in the changing morning light. After exploring Borobudur and its intricate reliefs and architecture, continue your journey through Java’s extraordinary religious heritage. Later, visit Prambanan, an impressive complex of Hindu temples distinguished by its soaring towers and richly carved stonework. Together, Borobudur and Prambanan reveal the remarkable religious and cultural history that has shaped Central Java over centuries.
Day 11
Yogyakarta | A Day at Leisure
Enjoy a relaxed final day in Yogyakarta.
With the principal sights already explored, the day can be spent according to your interests. Wander through the city’s traditional neighbourhoods, explore its galleries and craft workshops, browse local markets or simply enjoy a leisurely final day in the cultural heart of Java.
For those seeking further exploration, additional excursions around Yogyakarta can also be arranged.
Yogyakarta