Indonesia - Java & Bali Tour - full itinerary

Java & Bali Intro:

Indonesia is a photographer’s dream come true, with its temples, volcanoes, diverse cultures, unique fauna and flora, jaw-dropping landscapes, fabulous beaches, and its mouth-watering food. With its emerald equator and all-around photographic experience, it's easy to see why Indonesia is one of the world's most alluring destinations.

Our tour begins in Borobudur, home to the world’s largest Buddhist temple, surrounded by tranquil rice paddies, jungle and volcanoes. We then travel to Yogyakarta, to visit the sprawling temple complexes of Prambanan and Candi Sewu. Next, we swap ancient history and culture for raw nature, photographing two very different volcanoes, Mount Bromo and the sulphur mines of Kawa Ijen. 

Bali, known as the Land of the Gods, offers further photographic opportunities, from dolphins in their natural environment to soaking up the culture of Ubud and capturing one of the world’s most picturesque coastal temples at Tanah Lot. 

The beauty of Bali arises from its stunning landscapes - primarily volcanic, its breathtaking vistas are often draped with its legendary rice paddies. The unique terracing and cultural control of the water that feeds them is deemed so beautiful that they were awarded UNESCO world heritage status.

Day 1: 
Arrival in Yogyakarta — Magelang / Borobudur
We will arrange for you to be picked up from the airport and transferred to our hotel near Borobudur. Nathan runs the optional pre-tour technical and aesthetic workshop from around 3-5pm for those new to travel photography or who feel they would benefit from a refresher course (please confirm your interest). There will be a pre-tour meet ‘n’ greet with Nathan at the hotel starting at around 6pm.

Day 2:
Magelang/Borobudur — Yogyakarta
We watch the sun rise over Borobudur from our hotel restaurant terrace. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Central Java, Borobudur is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, and truly a photographer's paradise. It’s also the largest Buddhist temple in the world. At sunrise, this majestic ancient temple reveals its magnificence as the soft golden light bathes the intricate stone carvings and the surrounding mist-shrouded valleys. We capture the ethereal beauty of this moment as the sun's rays illuminate the mystical stupas, creating a mesmerising interplay between light and shadow.

After breakfast, we head to Borobudur temple and enter the temple complex itself. As the morning unfolds, we delve into the intricate details of Borobudur's bas-reliefs, which depict intricate narratives of Buddha's teachings and ancient Javanese life. These ornate carvings offer endless opportunities to capture the rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship of the region. The temple's tiered architecture allows for breathtaking panoramic views. From the upper levels, we witness the sprawling landscapes dotted with volcanic peaks and verdant rice terraces. We can also frame the majestic Mount Merapi as it stands in the distance, providing a dramatic backdrop for the temple itself.

Around noon we drive to Yogyakarta, check in to our hotel for lunch before visiting Candi Sewu and reaching Prambanan temple in time for sunset. Prambanan is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a captivating destination for photographers. We begin our journey at Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple compound in Indonesia. We capture the intricate details of the towering spires, adorned with exquisite stone carvings depicting ancient legends and mythical beings. The temple's grandeur against the backdrop of blue skies creates a striking visual contrast.

Nearby, Candi Sewu stands as a remarkable 8th-century Buddhist temple complex, a true feast for the senses. We capture the intricate stone carvings, the serene atmosphere, and the interplay of light and shadow across this architectural wonder, a photographer's delight. We explore the vast complex and discover the smaller temples dedicated to various deities. We frame the temple structures against the lush greenery and serene surroundings, creating a harmonious composition that showcases the area’s architectural beauty.

As the sun begins to set, we experience the magical golden hour at Prambanan. The soft light casts a warm glow on the temple, enhancing its intricate details and creating a captivating atmosphere. We capture the interplay of light and shadow as the sun's rays illuminate the stone structures, allowing for stunning and ethereal compositions.

Day 3:
Yogyakarta — Bromo
Early this morning, we drive to Yogyakarta train station and depart for Mojokerto, 40km southwest of Surabaya, arriving at around 10am. From there we drive to Bromo, stopping en route to visit the magnificent Madakaripura waterfall. In the afternoon, we check into our hotel, take a rest and then head off to the ridge around Mt. Bromo for some sunset shots.

Located in East Java, Mount Bromo is an active volcano and a photographer's dream destination, offering endless opportunities for breathtaking landscape photography. We also explore the otherworldly landscapes of the national park. We capture the vast expanse of the volcanic desert, dotted with unique rock formations and barren stretches of ash. The contrasting textures and rugged terrain create a surreal and captivating atmosphere that is perfect for artistic compositions.

Venturing closer to Mount Bromo, we photograph the smoking crater that emits a constant plume of volcanic gases. We can frame the volcano against the backdrop of the clear blue sky or capture the billowing smoke as it mingles with the surrounding mist. We also Immerse ourselves in the culture by photographing the traditional horse-riding community. The local people, dressed in their colorful attire, offer a cultural touch to our images as they traverse the volcanic landscapes.

Day 4:
Bromo
A very early start today (around 2.30 am(!) when we leave by 4WD jeeps to reach the Penanjakan sunrise point overlooking Mt. Bromo. After setting up our cameras, we enjoy hot coffee and BBQ corn waiting to catch the first rays of light licking the tops of the volcanoes. Shortly after sunrise, we head down to the "Sea Of Sand" and ride horseback to the volcano. For those daring enough, we can climb up the face of the volcano and look inside, and yes…it is still active!

We have breakfast back at the lodge, followed by a well-deserved rest. In the afternoon, we return to the volcano's caldera and organise a local horse rider, riding his white horse over whispering black ash, and a volcano in the background makes for great photo opportunities under controlled conditions.

Day 5:
Bromo — Probolinggo — Banyuwangi
After a hearty breakfast, we set off to Banyuwangi on the east coast of Java. This is a long drive but we take the coast road and see the small fishing port of Pentai Bletok along the way, as well as people working in paddy fields. As usual, we allow time to stop along the way as and when interesting opportunities present themselves. If time allows we visit Baluran National Park, a distinct savannah landscape and home to diverse wildlife including water buffaloes, mouse deer and peacocks. The park also provides a great vantage point for Mt Ijen which will be our main destination tomorrow.

Day 6:
Banyuwangi — Ijen — Banyuwangi
Mount Ijen is a mesmerising destination that offers unique photographic opportunities. After another very early start, we travel one and a half hours to the starting point of Ijen Crater, one of the great natural wonders of Indonesia and a photographer's dream come true. From here, we trek for 90 minutes to the top of the sulphur mines under the guidance of experienced local guides. We have the option to be transported for most of the way in a cart if anyone is concerned about taking fairly strenuous exercise.

As the day breaks, we photograph the stunning turquoise-colored acidic lake that fills the Ijen Crater. The vibrant hues of the lake against the backdrop of the rugged crater walls create a striking contrast. We catch the reflection of the surrounding landscapes in the calm waters, highlighting the tranquility and beauty of this unique volcanic formation.

Venturing further into the mountain, we photograph the sulphur miners as they work tirelessly in harsh conditions to extract sulfur from the crater. Their bright yellow attire stands out against the barren landscapes, creating a compelling visual narrative that showcases the human element of this challenging profession.

Unfortunately, Ijen is currently closed to tourists due to heightened volcanic activity. The situation might change before we get there but we have to work with a Plan B:
We begin our day with some sunrise shots of the Muncar fishing village, where the vibrant maritime culture comes to life. We see the bustling activity of the local fishermen as they prepare to set sail, casting their nets into the cerulean waters of the sea. We can also stroll through the lively market, where fresh seafood and local produce showcase the essence of coastal living.

From the village, we venture into the serene embrace of De Djawatan Forest, where the winding trails shaded by verdant foliage create a tranquil atmosphere., and keep an eye out for the diverse array of flora and fauna that call the forest home. The village and forest combine to leave us with cherished memories of an authentic Banyuwangi experience.

In the afternoon, Nathan will run a Lightroom post-processing workshop looking at new developments with the software and its latest capabilities. We then head to Bangsring beach for some sunset shots before returning to the hotel for dinner.

Day 7:
Ijen — Lovina (Bali)
Early this morning we visit the extensive and very friendly Banyuwangi Market. This is a very typical central market but is widely ignored by tourists, which is good news for us as most of the vendors are very happy to see photographers and more than willing to have their photos taken. Fresh wet (fish) markets , fresh fruit and of course freshly cooked breakfast stands (Warungs) make for the main photographic highlights.

We spend a few hours at the hotel for a shower and a bite to eat before heading to the ferry for the crossing to Bali. The ferry‘s schedule is somewhat unpredictable and we have a change of clock to deal with but should get to Lovina in good time to check in to our beachside hotel. Lovina is a quiet town nestled along the northern coast of Bali around five kilometres west of the city of Singaraja. It’s known for its black sand beaches, coral reefs and dolphins, and offers a serene and captivating setting for capturing stunning images.

Later in the day, we take a simple stroll through the garden of our hotel to the beach and prepare ourselves for the often spectacular sunset, enhanced by the unusual black sand and typical Balinese fishing boats as foreground interest. We photograph the breathtaking sunset over the beach. As the sun descends, the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant colours. The warm hues reflect on the water's surface and the silhouettes of the traditional fishing boats create a magical and unforgettable scene.

Day 8:
Lovina — Kintamani
This morning, we rise early to photograph the famous Lovina dolphins, joining a guided boat tour and capturing the magical moments as these playful creatures swim and leap in the calm waters of the sea. The soft morning light creates a serene atmosphere, allowing us to embrace the beauty and grace of the dolphins in their natural habitat.

After breakfast we drive to Singaraja market. Singaraja is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a diverse range of photographic opportunities. We explore the city’s bustling markets and immerse ourselves in the local daily life. We can capture the vibrant colours and textures of the fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts on display. The lively atmosphere and friendly locals provide ample opportunities for candid street photograpby.

We then continue to Kintamani, which offers stunning landscapes, volcanic vistas and cultural treasures, providing a haven for photographers, including the Ulun Danu Bratan temple. We enjoy the views over Mount Batur, capturing the majestic beauty of this active volcano as it rises above the serene Lake Batur. We frame the panoramic views of the lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and the glistening lake, creating compositions that showcase the dramatic scenery.

We can also access a very decorative Balinese (Hindu) temple that is open to the public. After lunch, we find a Lawak coffee producer before heading to our hotel which has a great view of Mount Agung from its terraced gardens.

Day 9:
Kintamani — Ubud
Before breakfast, we capture the sun rising over Mount Agung from our private gardens – hopefully a stunning sight if it’s not too misty. Breakfast is served at the restaurant at our hotel with equally good views. Afterwards, we beat the crowds to Besakih. Known as the "Mother Temple of Bali," and located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih is the largest and most important temple complex on the island, offering a wealth of excellent photographic opportunities.

We start at the Pura Besakih Temple, the centerpiece of the complex, where we capture the grandeur and architectural beauty of the temple's towering pagodas, intricately carved stone gates, and ornate shrines. The temple's tiered design and the surrounding lush landscapes provide a visually stunning composition. We immerse ourselves in the spiritual ambiance of Besakih as we photograph the devotees engaging in their prayer and ritual activities. We capture the colourful offerings, the devout worshippers, and the intricate details of ceremonies taking place, reflecting the deep spirituality and cultural traditions of Bali.

After lunch we head for Dam Tukad Yeh Unda Klungkung, where we arrange a private shoot with the local villagers having fun in the water. Photographic opportunities abound at the enchanting dam and the majestic concrete structure, surrounded by lush landscapes, serves not only as an important source of irrigation but also as a gathering place for the local community.

As we approach the dam, the sounds of laughter and splashing water will capture our attention. The children of the nearby villages have made this their own personal playground, diving into the cool, refreshing waters and frolicking along the banks. We capture the silhouettes of the children as they leap and twirl, their movements frozen in time. The vibrant hues of their clothing and the sheer delight on their faces will add a touch of vibrancy to our images.

The dam itself presents a striking contrast between the geometric lines of the concrete structure and the lush, organic foliage that surrounds it. The reflections in the still waters below further enhance the visual drama, creating a feast for the senses. As we immerse ourselves in the rhythmic pulse of life at Tukad Unda Dam, we let our cameras become extensions of our vision, capturing the essence of this picturesque destination and the joyful spirit of the local community.

From there we continue to our hotel in Ubud. Ubud is known for its rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and artistic charm, offering a myriad of photographic opportunities. We begin our journey in the town’s heart, exploring its bustling streets and markets, and capturing the colours and textures of the local handicrafts, textiles, and artwork. The atmosphere and friendly locals create a lively backdrop for candid street photography.

Day 10:
Ubud
After many very early morning departures, we enjoy a well-deserved free morning to ourselves. Our centrally located hotel is well placed for you to explore Ubud town, which is known as a centre for traditional crafts and dance. The surrounding rainforest and terraced rice paddies, dotted with Hindu temples and shrines, are among Bali’s most iconic landscapes.

You can visit the iconic Monkey Forest, a sacred sanctuary inhabited by a troop of playful macaques. Here you can capture the interactions between the monkeys, their natural habitats, and the ancient temples within the forest. The lush greenery and ancient statues provide a unique backdrop for capturing wildlife and cultural charm. 

You can also visit the Ubud Royal Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, and capture the architectural beauty of the traditional Balinese palace, framing the ornate gates, carvings, and the peaceful gardens within the palace complex.

In the late afternoon, we make private arrangements for pre-performance portraits of the local dancers, followed by front-row seats from which we photograph the traditional dance performances that take place in Ubud. We capture the expressive movements, intricate costumes, and vibrant colours of the dancers, immersing ourselves in the island’s rich artistic traditions, which might include a dancing over fire.

Day 11:
Ubud — Tabanan
Our day starts with a guided tour through Tegalalang, the most famous rice terrace in Bali. Tegallalang is famous for its stunning terraced rice fields, offering a paradise for photographers. We start our adventure in Tegallalang's iconic rice terraces, capturing the mesmerizing patterns of the cascading rice fields as they stretch across the hillsides. The terraces create a visually striking composition and provide a glimpse into Bali’s traditional agricultural practices.

We explore the narrow pathways that wind through the rice terraces, offering different vantage points for photography. We capture the interplay of light and shadow as it dances across the landscape, creating depth and texture. 

We venture further into the countryside surrounding Tegallalang and photograph the traditional villages that dot the area. Here we can capture the traditional Balinese architecture, the daily activities of the villagers, and the vibrant colours of their clothing, allowing us to document the authentic cultural heritage and the warmth of the local community.

We interact with the locals and capture their way of life. We document the farmers tending to their crops, the artisans creating traditional crafts, or the children playing in the fields. These candid moments offer a glimpse into the daily life and cultural traditions of the area. After breakfast, we head to the glass-blowing studios at Sari Tibul before transferring to our hotel in Tabanan.

We spend the evening at Tanah Lot Temple, a rock formation located off the southern coast of Bali and is renowned for its iconic sea temple and stunning coastal landscapes, offering a wealth of fabulous photographic opportunities. We explore the coastal landscapes surrounding Tanah Lot and capture the rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and expansive ocean views. We witness the waves crashing against the rocks, the sweeping panoramas, and the dramatic coastal formations. 

Day 12:
Tabanan — Sanur
Early this morning, we explore the fabulous paddy fields that surround our wonderful hotel gardens and if we are lucky we catch the last of the harvesting. Known as the rice bowl of Bali, the vast Tabanan regency is famed for its magnificent rice paddies and pristine natural scenery. The area offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities, from beautiful landscapes to cultural heritage. 

We explore the Tabanan countryside and photograph the traditional villages that dot the area. We capture the traditional Balinese architecture, the daily activities of the villagers, and the vibrant colours of their clothing. This offers the perfect opportunity to document the authentic cultural heritage and the warm hospitality of the local community.

At noon, we drive towards Sanur. Sanur offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil beaches, combining to providine a wealth of photographic opportunities. Later in the afternoon we drive the short distance to Jimbaran Bay where we will photograph the local fishermen bringing their catches to the market. Here we walk along the beach at sunset where they use coconut husks to barbecue fresh fish and seafood, and we enjoy our last dinner together.

Day 13:
Departure from Denpasar
On the last day, there is a sunrise shoot at Sanur Beach where traditional boats are always moored, and if we are lucky Mount Merapi will be silhouetted in the background. We witness the vibrant sunrise, when the soft light bathes the landscapes and we can frame the pastel hues, the silhouettes of fishing boats, and the reflections on the water. The tranquil beauty and the calmness of the early morning create a magical atmosphere that is perfect for creating memorable images.

Afterwards, we head back to our hotel for breakfast while enjoying the sea views and a moment of calm. The rest of the morning could be spent by capturing the serene beaches of Sanur, framing the soft golden sands, the swaying palm trees, and the gentle waves of the ocean. Or explore the coastal paths and photograph the traditional fishing boats known as jukungs, capturing their colourful sails, weathered textures, and the fishermen preparing for their daily catch.

In the afternoon we prepare for departure to the airport, although we might suggest that Sanur is also the perfect spot for a few extra days of a beach holiday, which we would happily arrange for you.

You could continue to photograph the local life by visiting the bustling local markets, capturing the colourful displays of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. We frame the friendly faces of the locals as they go about their daily activities, providing a glimpse into the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the island.

We hope you will have had an enjoyable and memorable experience, and look forward to seeing you again on another photographic adventure!

Here are the details of the optional Sumba extension:

Day 13 (continued):
Sanur — Waingapu
After breakfast, we can relax at our hotel in Bali, then after lunch we fly to Waingapu on the northeast coast of Sumba, arriving at the airport at 14:40. We transfer to our hotel, check in and take a short break before heading to Walakiri Beach, a picturesque coastal destination known for its stunning sunsets and unique natural features including the “dancing trees”.

The beach also features a vast expanse of white sand and numerous unique mangrove trees that line the coast. During low tide, the receding waters unveil a captivating sight where the exposed seabed is dotted with tidal pools that reflect the sky's colours during sunset, creating a breathtaking mirror-like effect.

Day 14:
Waingapu
We have an early start today in order to take some sunrise shots at the Morinda River, including the iconic white horses galloping gracefully across the savanna. These elegant creatures move in harmonious rhythm with the land, creating a spectacle that captures the untamed spirit of the landscape.

Our next stop is at one of Waingapu's vibrant local markets. Colourful textiles, intricate ikat fabrics, and traditional betel nut displays mingle with fresh produce. The vendors offer exotic spices and locally crafted goods, creating a sensory feast. In the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the enchanting Waimarang Waterfall, where the cascading waters create a soothing melody that resonates with the beauty of the surroundings.

At sunset, we have the option to return to Walakiri Beach if appropriate, otherwise we can visit the stunning Tanau Hills, a destination that will captivate our senses and leave us in awe of its natural beauty. We return to our hotel for a well-deserved rest and dinner with the group.

Day 15:
Waingapu — Tambolaka
We begin our day with a visit to Wairinding Hill, a vantage point that promises awe-inspiring panoramic views. Our next stop is at Praijing Village, where we have the opportunity to interact with the local people and learn about their culture. We continue our drive to Tambolaka, stopping en route to take pictures as and when opportunities present themselves, then we check in to our hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Day 16:
Tambolaka
We begin our day with sunrise at the enchanting Waikacura Waterfall, a three-tiered cascade in the heart of a lush remote jungle where the cascading waters create a soothing symphony. Later in the morning, we visit the enchanting province of Kodi, located in the southwest corner of the island. We start at Kampung Ratenggaro, a charming village that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Sumba people. Here we can immerse ourselves in their customs and marvel at the intricate architecture of their unique thatched-roof huts.

From there we head to the nearby Weekuri Lagoon, one of the island’s most magical spots. It’s a peaceful, ocean-fed lagoon known for its clear aquamarine water, in sharp contrast to the Indian Ocean raging against the rocks on the far side.

We end today’s adventure on the beach at Pantai Mandorak, where a breathtaking panorama of rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters awaits. From there we head to our hotel to check in and relax before enjoying a farewell dinner with the group.

Day 17:
Departure from Tambolaka
This morning we head to Ketewel, a tiny coastal Bugis settlement on the north coast of West Sumba. Here we see the local farmers engage in traditional salt making, where they process salt-infused sand by filtering it through local seawater to produce a very salty brine, which is then dried by spreading it over large metal trays on driftwood fires.

Around noon, we check out from our hotel and enjoy a relaxed lunch. We then take a short drive to the airport for our flight back to Bali, arriving at Denpasar airport at around 17:30.

Depending on your outbound flight schedule, we can help you transit to the international terminal at the airport or, if you prefer, we can arrange accommodation for you at one of the nearby hotels.