Classic Indonesia

Wake early to witness the sunrise over the world-famous Borobudur from your hotel. It was the Shailendra dynasty that embraced Mahayana Buddhism in the early 9th century and the temple took almost 100 years to be completed. The top level is dotted with 72 small, latticework stupas, each with a statue of Buddha inside. After breakfast, you’ll head to Candirejo Village, a traditional Javanese village where you can learn about Javanese culture and daily life, including farming, art performances and local food. Take a traditional andong (horse and carriage) around the village.

Take a day-trip to explore Yogyakarta city, considered the heartland of culture on the island. As one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta has many heritage buildings and monuments. Begin at Keraton, the Sultan’s Palace, which was built between 1756 and 1790 and is a splendid example of traditional Javanese court architecture. Also, visit Taman Sari, also known as the Water Castle. Built in 1758 as an elaborate retreat, the Water Castle is a two-story mansion built on an elevated mound arising out of an artificial lake. It features an underwater tunnel, sunken bathing pools, meditation chambers and 18 lavish tropical gardens. Saved for last is the main attraction, the UNESCO-designated Prambanan, an impressive collection of massive Hindu temples. Time permitting, check out the contemporary art galleries; Yogyakarta’s creative scene has a down-to-earth community approach that welcomes everyone to learn and connect.

Leave Java behind and head for the island paradise of Bali. You will be met at the airport and transferred via private car 1.5 hours north to Ubud, a small town in central Bali. Upon arrival, step into the quintessential traditional Balinese scene: green hillsides, rice terraces, sounds of the gamelan, and processions of colorfully dressed people holding umbrellas, offerings, and wafting incense.

Begin the day with an adventure – white water rafting. The Ayung River provides a thrill that begins the moment you push off from the riverbanks. On the more leisurely stretches through tropical forests you will see Hindu shrines brightly decorated on ceremonial days of prayer. Discover hidden waterfalls, swim in the pristine water and enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Ayung River valley. In the afternoon, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a 27-acre space of cool and dense jungle in the Padangtegal area of Ubud. The mysterious temple complex is home to a tribe of grey-haired long-tailed macaque monkeys. Round out the day at Ubud’s bustling market which specializes in artisan handicrafts. Ubud, like Yogyakarta, is also a cultural heartland and where traditional arts thrive. The market is a treasure trove of wicker baskets and boxes, ikat and batik textiles, gold and silver jewelry, straw hats, and more.

Begin another early morning with a 45-minute drive to the peaceful village of Sebatu Village. On the way, you’ll make a short stop in Tegalalang Village, known for its beautiful rice terraces, tropical rainforest and as a home to Balinese artists. Take a walk through rice paddies and learn how rice is grown, cultivated and harvested. Depending on the season, meet farmers ploughing or planting. They will be happy to invite you to join them. Pause to visit local artist-s workshop, where you can join and practice the art of wood carving or local painting styles. Once at Sebatu Village, head to Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple for a blessing ceremony. A Hindu Priest will perform a purification ceremony which requires you to take a bath in the Holy Spring Water Plunge Pool, which is believed to purify the body and soul. In the late afternoon, set off a walk along a mountain ridge trail where you can take in a panoramic view of the sun setting on the lush landscape.

From rice fields to open sea, today you begin the sailing portion of your journey. Fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo where you will board your private charter vessel. There is a wealth of luxury boats to choose from, ranging from traditional phinisi to modern yachts and everything in between. After a quick boat orientation, begin cruising to Kalong Island. A late lunch on your boat will be served on the way. You’ll anchor near Kalong Island, literary Bat Island, home to thousands of bats which you will witness flying around the island during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely dinner on the deck under the stars.

Sail on to Rinca Island where you’ll visit the ranger-s station for an encounter with the famed Komodo dragons. These giant lizards can only be found at Komodo National Park and on a few islands, including Rinca and Komodo. Aside from the formidable dragons, you are likely to encounter buffalo, deer and wild horses. From the top of the Rinca hills, the scenery is spectacular. Returning to the yacht for lunch, you’ll then set sail for Padar island. A deserted island with great views, here you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, swimming, kayaking, or simply strolling along the beach. In the meanwhile, enjoy drinks and nibbles on the beach at sunset, and the boat will anchor here for the night.

After breakfast, the vessel will navigate to Karang Makassar, known as Manta Point. Dive into the waters and encounter manta rays, snapper and turtles amongst the pristine reef. The waters of Komodo are rich with marine life and have some of the most stunning coral gardens in the world. Later in the afternoon, you’ll sail onwards to the uninhabited island of Gili Lawa Darat where you can go on a short trek to a viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of the entire island.

Arise early this morning for a day of snorkeling and sailing around the island of Gili Lawa Darat. Take one last opportunity to swim in the seas around your own isolated isle before heading back to Labuan Bajo. Then, you’ll catch a flight back to Bali where you will make your way to Amankila.

Start the morning with a 1.5-hour drive to Iseh Village, where you’ll hop on a bike. Explore the colorful landscape of eastern Bali which boasts dramatic volcanic valleys, rice terraces, and lush tropical rainforest. Along the way, you can also view the ocean and Agung Mountain. Stop at Sibetan village, where snakeskin fruit grows and you can join the farmer to pick and taste this plant. The Sibetan village is also known for its rice wine production. Your final destination is Prasi Beach, located on a secluded coast between two hills and two villages, Prasi and Bugbug. Unlike other beaches in the east of Bali, Prasi Beach offers white sands stretching along the bay and great swimming spots. Spend time here to take a refreshing swim and bask on the sands before returning to your hotel.

There is no shortage of spectacular sunrises in Indonesia and today you will witness a tranquil one at Lempuyang Temple, known to the Balinese as a place of great spiritual power. There are actually seven temples within the grounds but the most popular sight is the famous “gateway to heaven,” a dramatic stone gate that perfectly frames Mount Agung in the distance. Next, you’ll head to Taman Ujung Complex, a curious yet beautiful combination of Balinese and European architecture with three large ponds connected by long elegant bridges and pathways. The enduring architecture and superb mountain backdrop to the north, and sea to its southwest, make it a favorite location for wedding photos. Finally, you’ll head to Tirta Gangga, which translates to mean “Water from the Ganges,” and is a holy site often used for religious ceremonies. Tirta Gangga is a maze of pools and fountains surrounded by manicured gardens, stone carvings, and statues. The centerpiece of the palace is an eleven-tiered fountain.

Enjoy one last breakfast in this tropical paradise before checking out. A private transfer will take you to Denpasar Airport for your onward journey to your next destination.