7-Day Java Adventure: Explore Temples, Waterfalls, and Volcanoes

Java, the most populated island of Indonesia, is renowned for its magnificent volcanic landscapes. Central and East Java are essential parts of your Indonesian itinerary.

The smoking craters at Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen are famous tourist hotspots in Java. Moreover, this island boasts lush jungles, ancient temples, and countless waterfalls.

This comprehensive 1-week East Java itinerary will guide you through some of the must-see highlights starting in Central Java and concluding in West Bali. Therefore, get ready for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Java!

✈ Where To Start

The journey begins in Yogyakarta in Central Java. Fly into Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), which is well-served by various budget airlines. AirAsia frequently operates flights from Singapore (SIN) or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Yogyakarta starting at around 1 million Rupiah ($70 USD), while flights from Bali (DPS) may cost as low as 600k Rupiah ($40).

You could easily check flight options to Yogyakarta through popular travel search engines.

If preferred, you may reverse the itinerary, starting with the Bali ferry and ending in Yogyakarta, which presents equal charm and simplicity.

• Day 1: Dieng Plateau

Your Java adventure kicks off with a thrilling day trip to Dieng Plateau, positioned amid volcanic highlands west of Yogyakarta. Depart early from town to soak in breathtaking sunrises over Sikunir hill.

Post-sunrise, you can visit the sulfur lakes, terraced hills, steaming hot springs, and some of the oldest temples on the island.

• Day 2: Prambanan & Borobudur Temples

○ Prambanan Temple

In the morning, delve into the wonders of Prambanan, an impressive complex of Hindu temple ruins located near Yogyakarta. Though less renowned than Borobudur, many visitors appreciate Prambanan’s beauty even more.

○ Borobudur Temple

Next, venture to Borobudur, a vast 9th-century Buddhist temple famous as the largest of its kind in the world. You might consider switching the order of Borobudur and Prambanan if you prefer witnessing a sunrise at Borobudur.

• Day 3: Train To Malang

Catch the 7:45 AM train from Yogyakarta Stasiun to Malang.

This scenic train journey takes 8 hours and costs approximately 170k Rupiah (~$12 USD) per person. Tickets can conveniently be purchased online from the respective train service websites.

This train ride is delightful, offering comfortable seating and breathtaking views of Java’s countryside, which makes it a memorable aspect of the trip.

• Day 4: Malang Waterfalls

○ Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Kickstart your day at Tumpak Sewu, Indonesia’s most stunning waterfall. To capture the perfect morning light for photography, aim for an early start; it’s about a two-hour drive from Malang.

○ Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

After Tumpak Sewu, continue a short 10-minute drive to reach Kabut Pelangi. This sizable waterfall merits the 45-minute trek to see its splendor.

○ Kapas Biru Waterfall

From Kabut Pelangi, drive another 10 minutes to the Kapas Biru trailhead. This waterfall is easily accessed via a brief 30-minute hike, and the views at the end are incredibly rewarding.

• Day 5: Coban Pelangi + Drive To Mount Bromo

○ Coban Pelangi Waterfall

Before embarking on your journey to Bromo, consider visiting Coban Pelangi waterfall, a lesser-known gem located one hour east of Malang.

○ Drive From Malang To Mount Bromo

Proceed to drive from Malang to Cemoro Lawang, the community located at Mount Bromo. Although the distance is relatively short at 130 kilometers (80 miles), expect the journey to take over 3 hours. Rest well, as the Bromo adventure awaits!

Mount Bromo stands as one of the premier highlights of this East Java itinerary, and it is essential to fully embrace its beauty.

• Day 6: Mount Bromo Sunrise + Drive To Banyuwangi

○ Mount Bromo Sunrise

Rise early to trek or drive to the sunrise viewpoint for Mount Bromo. Witnessing the smoking volcanic craters at dawn is an unforgettable bucket list moment.

○ Drive From Bromo To Banyuwangi

Next, journey from Bromo to Ijen—it’s advisable to find accommodation nearby. The distance spans 230 kilometers (140 miles), with the drive potentially taking over 6 hours.

• Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater + Ferry To Bali

○ Kawah Ijen Crater

Get an early start to hike to the Ijen Crater. This challenging trek requires an early departure to view the remarkable blue fire (optional), or aim to arrive by golden hour for optimal photography.

○ Ferry To Bali

Finally, cross over from Java to Bali via the Ketapang ferry. The crossing typically takes 30-60 minutes and costs around 8k Rupiah (less than one US Dollar) per person if traveling without a vehicle.

Upon arrival in Bali, arranging a private driver for port pickup is recommended, though negotiation is possible upon landing at the port. However, be prepared for an additional charge, as the port remains distant from Bali’s primary tourist hubs.

Welcome to Bali! Your adventure continues with endless opportunities!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Java?

The ideal time to visit Java is between April and November when the weather is typically sunnier and drier. Although the rainy season runs from November to April, traveling is possible during this period, but may not be optimal for enjoying the waterfalls or sunrise views.

Our East Java Driver

From Day 3 onwards, we engaged a local driver from Zaini Transport who expertly guided us through all the waterfalls listed in this East Java itinerary, as well as Mount Bromo and Ijen, ultimately dropping us at the Bali ferry terminal.

The driver’s daily rate from Malang was 400k Rupiah plus fuel, resulting in a total of approximately 620k Rupiah ($44 USD) for a full day visiting three waterfalls in Lumajang and returning to Malang. His rates for Bromo/Ijen were slightly higher but still very competitive.

Our driver, Dayat, was punctual and knowledgeable about the region, ensuring we found all the waterfalls and attractions seamlessly. Consequently, we highly endorse his services as a more economic alternative to tour packages!