100% customisable travel idea
Indonesia, off the beaten track Javanese revelations and the coral archipelago
Indonesia - Java - Yogyakarta - Magelang - Karimunjawa
Indonesia for connoisseurs
Your trip
A charismatic city, extraordinary natural surroundings, magnificent attractions, and exceptional hotels - it's easy to find your balance on this trip, with nothing to stress you, as all the logistics have been meticulously planned. A private land transfer between Yogyakarta and Magelang, a fast boat crossing between Java and the Karimunjawa archipelago, and, when necessary, short journeys in a private air-conditioned car. Your travel arrangements are comfortable and spare you precious time. The relaxed pace - three days at each stop-off - allows you to unpack, experience each place fully, and not feel rushed. A residence brimming with historic charm in Yogyakarta, a concentrated expression of Javanese lifestyle in Magelang, a dream beach-front villa in Karimunjawa: the hotels we have selected play a full part in creating the finest memories of the trip. Style, comfort, and, everywhere, a keen understanding of the setting and the landscapes. To complete your relaxation, a spa is available to you at each stop-off. Without turning your days into marathons, several highlights have been scheduled on your itinerary: a bike ride in Yogya with a guide to leisurely wander from temple to temple; a private visit of the incredible Borobudur site; and an inspiring hike through the Javanese countryside, starting in Magelang, and always in good company. If, along the way, you have an unexpected whim or encounter a minor setback, you have the contact details of our on-site concierge, who can be reached at any time during your trip. In coordination with your travel specialist, the concierge can also help adapt your journey according to your wishes even along the way.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Spend the night on board and arrive the next day.
Upon arrival, a private transfer takes you to your accommodation in central Yogyakarta. This is a private mansion, which was built by a wealthy Chinese merchant in 1918. It combines contemporary services and Southeast Asian spirit, with a touch of Art Deco elegance and a good dose of Chinese decorum. With comfortable rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room and a spa, the well-being of guests is paramount here. At the restaurant, you can dive straight into Indonesian cuisine or start with a few international classics; or even, in keeping with the style of the house, decide to eat Chinese food.
Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java, is in some ways its soul. It is here that the Javanese language is at its purest, the arts are most vibrant, and traditions are most present. “Yogya” is still ruled by a sultan, whose sumptuous palace, a veritable city within a city, is open to visitors. In the morning, it's nice to stroll around the Pasar Kranggan market, where clothing stalls, fruit and vegetable stalls, and street vendors selling jajan, sweets made from sticky rice, sugar and grated coconut, all mingle together. Along Jalan Malioboro, the city's main thoroughfare, there is a succession of shops, and in the adjacent streets, warungs sell the very local - and very distinctive - kopi joss, a coffee that has a piece of burning charcoal added to it because of the charcoal’s detoxifying properties. To reach the Sonobudoyo Museum and its superb collection of Javanese art or the Taman Sari, otherwise known as the “Water Castle”, hop on a becak, the local cycle rickshaw, and take in the temples, craft shops and trendy bars along the way.
On your itinerary - A private bike tour from temple to temple. Accompanied by a guide, you will travel about nine miles (15 km), cycling from one sanctuary to another. You will depart from Sambisari Temple, from where you can reach Plaosan, Pramabanan and Sewu temples on the other side of the Mataran Canal. A lovely ride through the countryside and villages surrounded by rice fields. On the way, you will stop for lunch in a local restaurant.
On your itinerary - A private tour of the Borobudur Temple. Accompanied by a guide, you will discover a marvel of Buddhist art: the Borobudur stupa-mandala. Representing the cosmos and the path to enlightenment, it was built in the eighth and ninth centuries. Particularly impressive are the bas-reliefs, which accompany pilgrims in successive panels. The sculptors who worked here have earned their place in the pantheon of their art. The scale and coherence of the design are impressive; the educational intent is touching; the virtuosity displayed by the artists is often dazzling. And then there are some five hundred statues of Buddha.
Private transfer to Magelang and a three-night stay in the heart of a coffee plantation. Forests, rice fields, mountains: the landscape stretches out in shades of green into the distance. From the meticulously maintained garden or the superb infinity pool, the effects are mesmerising. The buildings come from all over Java and have been reassembled here in keeping with their original structure and decoration; the technical upgrades are as discreet as they are effective. Beautiful craftsmanship, antique furniture and a chic atmosphere without being intimidating. To ensure the restaurant truly celebrates Javanese cuisine, the chef uses local and organic ingredients. As for the spa, it draws on traditions from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, combined with the best contemporary techniques. You will be sorry to leave.
Magelang is located in the fertile Kedu plain, at the foot of the Merbabu and Sumbing volcanoes. This is a region that features teak forests and slender palm trees, and one that is enveloped in a vibrant spirituality, which is evident from its fascinating shrines.
On your itinerary - A private hike through the Javanese countryside. Head to a small village nestled in the heart of the rice fields, where this superb walk through the hills begins. Thanks to your guide's valuable knowledge, you will become familiar with the area and its unique and beautiful local flora.
Optional - A private bike ride to the Umbul temple baths.
A private transfer will take you to the port of Jepara, where you will board a speed boat that will take you to Karimunjawa in two hours. A three-night stay in an idyllic setting. Under the royal palm trees, the sunlight reflects off the pristine white sand. The villas feature a contemporary Indonesian style, and the decor reflects this approach. The result is a fluid, open setting that is livened up by light colours. Your accommodation overlooks the sea. You will enjoy complete comfort during your stay. The garden, which extends to the private beach, provides everything you need for relaxation: a swimming pool, a solarium, sun loungers, Balinese beds, etc. There is a spa for those who wish to be pampered, as well as a fitness room. The accommodation also has a restaurant, where the chef refines local dishes with elegance.
From above, the island is a green circle that is slightly off-centre in a ring-shaped lagoon. The shallow depth of the water up to the reef makes it dazzlingly clear. Beyond lies the deep blue of the Java Sea. The charms of the hotel may keep you there for a while, but soon you will come back to the essentials: sand, water and nature. Kayaking, snorkelling and diving are a must. The coral reefs are home to a dazzling array of colourful marine life. To reach the best spots, you can board sleek speed boats. Karimunjawa National Park also protects dense areas of mangrove swamps. Take the time to explore inland, as the beauty of the archipelago is not limited to its coastline.
Private transfer to the airport, flight to Semarang, then international return flight. Spend the night on board and arrive the next day.
À la carte
This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.
Private cycling tour of the Umbul temple baths
Candi Umbul, established in the 9th century, consists of two large stone pools sourced from a spring. It is believed that this Hindu site had a ritual function - still not clearly defined, but water has long held religious and political significance. It is also thought that the monarchs of the Mataram kingdom used to bathe here. In any case, today's visitors never miss the chance to bathe in the sacred water? You're welcome to do the same and enjoy a refreshing break after a pleasant bike ride.With a few more days...
Kuala Lumpur - On your way to Indonesia, consider transiting through Kuala Lumpur. An opportunity to spend a few days in the Malaysia's fascinating capital, which, whatever your tastes, never leaves anyone indifferent. You will find charm in the eclectic mix of buildings, from the old train station to Menara Tower and the Petronas Towers, and tranquillity in the urban parks Titiwangsa Lake Garden and Perdana Botanical Gardens. Food enthusiasts and curious travellers will also delight in the rich blend of influences found on every plate. A true journey within a journey.Malang- - Inland in western Java, the small town of Malang, little visited by tourists, nevertheless preserves an exceptional heritage, a legacy of its very rich history. Starting with temples, the oldest of which, Badut, dates back to the 7th century; not to mention Jago, Singorasi and Sumberawan, which were built between the 13th and 15th centuries. They stand alongside beautiful 19th-century colonial monuments, witnesses to a complex era when Malang was nicknamed “the Paris of Java” because of the many European planters who settled there. Yet their presence never erased the ancestral traditions, which still today are evident in the danced performances of Tari Topeng or in the masks crafted by the village artisans.
Why visit Indonesia with Voyageurs du monde?
Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)
Let us create your tripA few of the advantages of travelling with us to Indonesia
- Globally unique concierge service
- Wi-Fi: 1 GB/day included
- Gourmet Voyageurs
- Adjust your trip while travelling
- 24-hour assistance
- CO2 absorption
