Java tours: top 10 popular routes for vivid impressions

The island of Java - one of the most densely populated islands in Indonesia - is known for its cultural mix, ancient temples and volcanoes. This corner of the planet offers many exciting adventures. We will tell you about the best organized trips in Java that will leave unforgettable impressions. So, which tours in Java should you choose - read more in the article.

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Hike to Mount Ijen and the "Blue Fire"

Discover the magic of the "Blue Fire" at Mount Ijen. Here you can witness a natural phenomenon that exists only in two places on the planet - in the Ijen crater and in Iceland. Climb to the top of the mountain to enjoy a breathtaking view of the crater.

Inside the crater there is a lake whose water is unlike any body of water you have ever seen. The milky turquoise color indicates an extremely high level of acidity. In fact, this lake is the largest acidic lake in the world.

Arriving at the top before dawn, you will see the natural phenomenon of Ijen, when it seems as if blue flames are breaking out of the lake. At the edge of the reservoir there is such a dense accumulation of sulfur that an active sulfur mine is open here. From the viewpoint at the top, you can take incredible photos.

• Duration: 1 day.
• Price: from $40.

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Borobudur temple - sunrise tour

The three best places around Yogyakarta are combined in one tour, which includes Mount Merapi, Prambanan Temple and Borobudur. Your guide and driver will pick you up early in the morning at sunrise on Setumbu Hill, which offers a breathtaking view of Borobudur and Mount Merapi. Even before sunrise, you will arrive at the Borobudur temple complex, an ancient Buddhist temple founded in the 9th century. A place of power not only for Buddhists and the main symbol of the island of Java.

After seeing the temple at sunrise, the tour will continue to Mount Merapi, one of the most formidable on the island. A visit to a traditional Javanese village is also planned. Then you will ride an andong, a horse-drawn carriage. And you will finish this full day with a visit to the Hindu temple of Prambanan. This is one of the most visited cultural attractions in Indonesia!

• Duration: 1 day.
• Price: from $85.

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Walk through cultural Yogyakarta

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java. This city attracts lovers of authenticity, gourmets, and admirers of unusual crafts and arts. Yogyakarta has an art scene, cozy cafes and the most iconic temples of Indonesia. Walk through the city and admire bright graffiti and installations. Try local delicacies and enjoy the variety of flavors at street markets. Watch the sun set over the lively main street of Malioboro, known for its colorful shops and noisy street vendors. Buy traditional Indonesian batik. Yogyakarta will let you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of real Java!

Price of a city tour with a guide: from $85.

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Descent into Jomblang Cave

If you crave extraordinary adventures, Jomblang Cave will be a great option! It is located not far from the center of Yogyakarta. The cave keeps a magical secret... Every day, for a short period of time, light enters the dark void through an opening in the ceiling of the cave, creating a beam that seems almost unreal. The team will help you descend into the cave on a rope. Then you will explore the underground voids knee-deep in mud. Get ready for an unusual experience!

Jomblang Cave is accessible all year round, but it is best to visit it in the dry season, from April to October. To get into the cave, you need to book an organized tour. Make sure you take comfortable clothes and shoes, as well as a flashlight.

• Duration: 5-6 hours.
• Price: from $24.

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Tumpak Sewu waterfall

Tumpak Sewu must definitely be included in your list of places to visit in Java. It is a breathtaking sight that simply cannot be described in words! Also known as the "Waterfall of a Thousand Horses", it is one of the largest and most impressive in Indonesia. It is located in Lumajang Regency in East Java, and is famous for its scale: water falls with a roar from a height of more than 120 meters into a deep pool. Admire this grandeur and plunge into the cool water of the pool, of course with a walk along scenic trails in the surroundings.

Getting to Tumpak Sewu is already an adventure in itself. First you need to get to Kampung Tumpak village, and then walk along a trail through the jungle. In the rainy season, from November to March, the trail can be slippery, so it is worth bringing comfortable shoes with good anti-slip soles.

Price: from $64.

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Sunrise at Mount Bromo

Bromo - an active volcano - is one of the most popular attractions in Java. Seeing the sunrise over Mount Bromo is an unforgettable experience. The peak is part of the large Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where, as the name suggests, there are two more volcanoes. To see the dawn, tourists usually climb to the Penanjakan viewpoint.

It is worth climbing here early in the morning. Be sure to dress warmly, as it can be cool at the top.

Price: from $40.

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Jakarta surroundings: volcanoes, tea plantations and hot springs

Jakarta - is not only the capital of Indonesia, but also a great starting point for trips to surrounding villages and natural places. In one day, you can feel all the beauty and variety of Java.

• Visit Tangkuban Perahu Volcano with an active crater that can be seen up close.
• Tea plantations on the slopes of the volcano. You will learn about the process of growing tea, its different types and the traditions of harvesting.
• Hot springs: warm sulfur-rich waters of a natural hot spring known for its healing properties.
• Fruit market in Bandung. Try exotic fruits such as honey pineapple, snake fruit and mangosteen.
• Walk through scenic rice fields and learn about the life of local farmers.

Duration: daylight hours.

Price: from $120.

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Mount Merapi

Start your adventure on a private jeep safari to Mount Merapi, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Feel the adrenaline as you drive along its slopes, and visit a museum where you will learn everything about the devastating eruption of 2010, when the volcano claimed 353 lives and led to the evacuation of 350 thousand residents from nearby villages.

Transfer from Yogyakarta is included in the price of the excursion. During the trip, your guide will tell you about the history of the region while you enjoy the views from the window. Upon arrival at the volcano, feel a rush of energy as you climb its scenic slopes. Stop at several viewpoints to take perfect photos. In clear weather, the trip will be more spectacular.

Price: from $35.

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Snorkeling tour around the Karimunjawa islands

Explore beautiful corals and colorful fish in the underwater world of the Karimunjawa island group. A fairy-tale boat trip and rest on pearl beaches await you, several snorkeling stops and an excursion around different islands. If you are lucky, you may even find turtles! For lunch - a picnic on the coast with freshly caught fish, and closer to evening - a magical sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Price: from $22.

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Temples and walks through the rice terraces

Walk through the famous Javanese plantations where rice, beans, corn and much more are grown. Enjoy the majestic landscape and the silence of the countryside. For those who want to visit iconic religious places in this area. Popular routes:

• Selogrio Temple and the Borobudur complex during the day or at sunrise.
• Selogrio Temple and the Prambanan complex during the day or at sunset.

Price: from $45.

Java offers a huge choice of excursions that can last several days. Do not miss the opportunity to discover the tropical island. Choose and book hotels in Indonesia in the Wiotto catalog!

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