Java Discovery: Ancient, Temples & Culinary

Culture, Heritage, Java, Gastronomy, Essentials

Jakarta, Magelang, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Malang

Jakarta

Surabaya

Tour Highlight

Old Batavia & Monas tour: Explore the historic heart of Jakarta, from colonial Fatahillah Square to the National Monument.
Vintage steam train ride: Journey through palm groves and local villages on a nostalgic ride from Ambarawa.
Borobudur & Prambanan exploration: Visit the world’s largest Buddhist monument and the majestic 9th-century Hindu temple complex.
Royal Yogyakarta & silverwork: Discover the Sultan’s Palace, Taman Sari Water Castle, and the traditional silver workshops of Kotagede.
Sentolo village cycling: Immerse in local life by bike, learning traditional tempeh production and weaving in a Javanese village.
Malang city & Javanese wellness: Explore colonial-era streets and the vibrant Rainbow Village before a traditional spa experience.

Day to day itinerary

While the itinerary is based on suggested accommodation, every journey is fully tailor-made, with our specialists ready to adapt options to your preferences and budget.

Jakarta

Upon arrival, obtain your Indonesia visa and then clear Immigration and Customs. Proceed to the arrival hall and meet our representative for transfer to your hotel near Jakarta airport. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to relax at the hotel

Jakarta

After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Jakarta, visiting to Merdeka Square to see the National Monument (Monas), then explore Jakarta’s Old Town, Chinatown, Fatahillah Square, and Sunda Kelapa Port before returning to your hotel.

Magelang

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Jakarta train station for a scenic train journey to Semarang. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by our driver and transferred to your hotel in Magelang, with time to relax and recharge.

Magelang

Enjoy a nostalgic ride on a vintage steam train from the Ambarawa Railway Museum, passing palm groves, local villages, and Rawa Pening Lake. Continue with a scenic drive to Selogriyo Temple, a quiet Hindu temple set among rice terraces and forested hills, reached by a gentle countryside walk. In the afternoon, return to your hotel.

Yogyakarta

After breakfast and check-out, meet your guide and visit Borobudur Temple, the 8th-century Buddhist monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the temple, continue by road to your hotel in Yogyakarta.

Yogyakarta

This morning meet your guide and visit Beringharjo Market and the Kraton Yogyakarta, the Sultan’s palace and a living center of Javanese tradition. Enjoy a cultural performance such as classical dance or gamelan, then continue to Taman Sari Water Castle, once a royal retreat, before returning to your hotel.

Yogyakarta

Explore Kota Gede on a guided walking tour, once the capital of the Mataram Kingdom and now known for its heritage and traditional silverwork. In the afternoon, visit Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in the evening enjoy the Ramayana Ballet performance before returning to your hotel.

Yogyakarta

After breakfast, your driver will take you south of Yogyakarta toward Kulon Progo. The drive to the village of Sentolo takes about 1-1.5 hours. Choose your traditional bike and cycle through the surrounding villages and rice fields. In Sentolo you will learn about tempeh production (fermented soybeans), traditional weaving and everyday life in a Javanese village. Finally, enjoy a traditional Indonesian lunch. Afterwards, return back to your hotel. Sit back and relax or you can take up your own program.

Surabaya

After breakfast, continue your journey to East Java. En route, visit the Trowulan archaeological site in Mojokerto, the former capital of the Majapahit Empire, known for its red-brick temples and royal remains. Arrive in Surabaya in the afternoon with time to check in and relax.

Surabaya

After breakfast, ready for a city tour of Surabaya. Visit a traditional market and the Cheng Hoo Mosque, then explore Surabaya’s Chinatown and enjoy a local food tour. Continue to Kampung Heritage Lawang Seketeng and the Heroes Monument, the city’s main landmark commemorating the Battle of Surabaya.

Malang

After breakfast, drive to Malang with flexibility to stop along the way for local sights or snacks. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at leisure or exploring the surroundings.

Malang

After breakfast, meet your guide to explore Malang. Walk through the city’s charming streets, passing colonial-era buildings, local markets, and the Malang Cathedral. Continue to Kampung Warna-Warni (Rainbow Village), with an optional stop at the nearby Blue Village, and enjoy time to taste the famous Bakso Malang. The day concludes with a calming Javanese wellness experience at The Tugu Malang,

Surabaya

Enjoy your last day in Malang. After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Surabaya International Airport for your onward journey. While the tour comes to an end, the memories and experiences of traveling through Java will stay with you long after you return home.

Java Discovery: Ancient, Temples & Culinary

Includes

All transfers are provided by basic English-speaking drivers
Train Ticket from Jakarta to Semarang (Executive Class)
Accommodations with daily breakfast
All activities / tours including local English-speaking guide
Experience the Local Living in Sentolo (Private Tour)
Traditional Javanese Massage at Hotel Tugu Malang
Entrance tickets as per itinerary
Meals as specified in the itinerary
24/7 personalized-assistance from the agency

Customize Itinerary

See what our clients say

All testimonials are organic and independently published on Trustpilot (via TravelLocal, our platform partner for Indonesia) and Google Reviews.

We booked a 26 day private tour in Indonesia, and it's fantastic!

“We normally do not book private tours but they came in at a reasonable price. Both organizations did a super job, they covered all local travel (air flights, ferries, and cars), hotels (with great breakfasts), guides and drivers, plus fees for all the sites. The hotels were 4 to 3.5 stars on the North American scale with 5 star service. They delivered on what we planned and then some.”

Robert Jakubec

Manager

3 incredible weeks in Indonesia with Kekayon Journeys

“We were never disappointed. We got exactly what we expected and more! Beautiful accommodations, knowledge and thoughtful guides, safe and prompt drivers and fantastic overall coordination. I would argue that the guides Kekayon arranged for us were top notch. We were brought to places where we didn’t see other tourists to get the best pictures!”

Jim Johnston

25 days+24 nights all over Indonesia!

“My friend Gord and I have just spent 25 days and 24 nights on an Indonesian tour thru Kekayon Journeys. Our agent, Febby, has arranged everything flawlessly. Over 3.5 weeks, 4 domestic plane flights, 2 riverboat live aboard trips, 9 hotels, over a dozen wonderful tours with both drivers and guides, restaurants and meals and so many moving pieces, its amazing that it’s gone so well!”

Drew Lombardi

Unparalleled Custom Care and Flawless Delivery

“I had the opportunity last minute to travel to Indonesia and didn’t have time to do my usual research and planning so i tried Tavel Local which connected me to Kekayon Journeys. And am I ever glad! They by far exceeded any expectations! The team was professional, courteous and responsive not to mention flexible. They were extremely thoughtful in proposing an itinerary and very understanding as we revised and refined it as I own I’m particular about what I want to do (and not do) on travel/vacation. My 3-week journey was magical! Exceptional lodging, knowledgeable guides, safe and responsible drivers and unique activities. All that might be reasonable to expect. The support continues on the ground throughout your adventure until you’re back on a plane out of Indonesia — everything from monitoring unusual island volcanic activity or the usual travel hiccups with hotels, your personal contact assigned to you is there to advise, handle, support and check in. Mine was the phenomenal Mr. Dirwan who even came to greet me in person as I stopped in his city. I can’t emphasize enough this genuine unparalleled care and kindness — from everyone — as I traveled throughout their country for weeks — not to mention their sincere generosity. Candidly, I feel they went above and beyond to make me happy. They took care of everything. I’d highly recommend Kekayon’s team for anyone travelling to Indonesia. Consider what exactly you want, your specific style, preference, and communicate clearly — start with a video conference and let the team work their magic. Everybody needs a Mr. Dirwan! 🙏”

Jelena Budjevac

We had such a wonderful experience…

“We had such a wonderful experience during our time in East Java. Caroline created the most wonderful itinerary for us with a lot of activity which is what we like to see and do! It was all so memorable that we consider our time in Indonesia one of our best holiday's ever! Our driver Witoc was with us the entire journey from East Java to dropping us off at our hotel in Ubud. We do not know how he did it and always with a smile. For us the traffic and driving is nerve racking as passengers even. He had nerves of steel and got us everywhere safely. We commend him for such a fine job! Our tour guide in Jogja was very knowledgeable and friendly. Nurri was very personable, and we enjoyed our days with him. He definitely made our trip full of lasting memories. I thank you all your expertise and kindness. Our first Indonesian trip was a big success!”

Dean Tompkins

Indonesia round trip with Kekayon…

“Indonesia round trip with Kekayon Agency. Trip was combined according to our wishes. Outstanding organization, 24/7 support if needed, great tours with very good local guides (English or German speaking). For people who want a private round trip Kekayon is the perfect partner.”

Axel Kiesel

Rockhounds Touring Kalimantan, East Java & Central Java

“We thoroughly enjoyed our Indonesia adventure. Accommodation was well chosen to suit the trip we requested. We asked for a ‘rock’ tour and were very excited about the sellers we found. The Orangutan tour was truly amazing. Great tour guide, crew and cook in Kalimantan. Our journey through Central and West Java gave us many cultural experiences. Very caring guide and skilled driver. Thank you Febby and Carolina.”

Allan Onyett

Excellent, ethical company

“We have just returned from a fabulous holiday visiting different Indonesian islands. Febby our destination expert listened to our ideas and planned a bespoke trip which exceeded our expectations by using their local knowledge. Kekayon journeys certainly delivered many wonderful experiences. We had Diwan available on WhatsApp to answer any questions whilst away, we were well looked after by local guides; Togi and Iggy. Stand out experience was trekking through the jungle at Bukit Lawang with Ranger Ginta, we saw many orangutans. This is the way to ethically travel and experience local culture. A 5 star experience, we wouldn’t hesitate to use again. Thank you”

Barry Townsley

We are absolutely thrilled by Indonesia…

“We are absolutely thrilled by Indonesia – the diversity of the country, the stunning nature, and above all, the warmth of its people truly impressed us. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this journey so wonderfully organized – the agency, the guides, the drivers, and the entire team working behind the scenes. A special highlight was the time on the houseboat. The crew and our guide were simply fantastic – everything was perfectly arranged, and we felt completely safe and well taken care of. These days will remain unforgettable! Another wonderful experience was our visit to a village in Bali. We were warmly welcomed, had the chance to see and learn so much, and felt truly embraced by the community. A special thank you goes to our guide and the entire family who hosted us. We also want to mention the incredible support we received from the team in the background. We were constantly kept up to date with flight information and other updates, which made everything run smoothly. For example, we had forgotten something at a hotel and realized it too late – but thanks to the amazing support from all sides, we got everything back without any hassle. All in all, We can only say: If you don’t book with them, you’re missing out. So many wonderful people are doing an outstanding job, and you can truly rely on every single one of them. Thank you once again for the countless impressions, the lovely people we met, the unforgettable experiences, the amazing team, and the flawless organization from A to Z!”

Stefan Lösche

I couldn’t be happier about finding them

“I couldn’t be happier about finding them. Our trip to Indonesia was perfectly organized from start to finish b, Kekayon Journeys. They managed to work within our budget and still gave us an amazing glimpse of the country, fully understanding the kind of experience we were looking for. From the moment we first got in touch until the day we returned home, we had a dedicated representative who made us feel completely safe during our trip. Everything went smoothly, and whenever something unexpected came up, they handled it so professionally that it never impacted our experience. I’d absolutely recommend the incredible team at Kekayon Journeys — if you’re planning to visit Indonesia.”

Mariano Lozano Garcia

Central Java, Sulawesi and Flores

“We booked a month’s tour of Central Java, Sulawesi and Flores – We discussed plans direct with Febby Diana in Indonesia whom we found to be highly responsive, easy to communicate with and very understanding of our requirements. She made planning and booking a very easy process. Paying through the Travel Local website was simple. We found her selection of hotels to be in accordance with our requests. The documentation received before departure was very informative and clear. Overseeing our trip was carried out by Diwan from the local agents. We communicated through WhatsApp (we had bought a local Indonesian SIM) We found Diwan to be exceptional in his care throughout our trip. He was very prompt in responding to messages and was helpful in adapting plans due to need to rebook flights and change hotels when local airlines cancelled flights or changed their schedules. He also checked us in for our flights and forwarded to us boarding passes. This was very helpful as all domestic flights must be checked in online with these only possible 12 hours in advance. We had 8 flights on Indonesian carriers, Wings, Lionair and Batik and despite warnings about reliability all our flights were on time Before departing we were concerned about road safety and are pleased to say that all three drivers were very careful and we felt very safe, The vehicles were in good condition, spacious and comfortable which was important as some journeys were long on very twisty mountain roads sometimes of indifferent quality, we particularly liked our driver on Flores. Throughout our trip we were accompanied by a local guide for each island. They were all highly experienced and knowledgeable about their areas. On several occasions their experience was able to ensure that we went on excursions at the right time of day for the best experience e,g, when to climb Mount Kelimutu – being older men possibly did mean that their English was not as good as younger generations, but it was never a hindrance. They were always happy to accommodate our changes to the schedule such as including the excellent Sangiran Early Man Site and Museum north of Solo on Java. Overall, we had a wonderful trip and were very happy that we had booked through Local Travel’s designated agents in Indonesia. Dealing directly with local agents is quick, efficient and beneficial and payment through the security of the Travel Local platform gave a sense of added security. We shall use both again.”

Christopher South

From the initial inquiry to the very…

“From the initial inquiry to the very end of my 3 week trip, all I can say is AMAZING! Every single detail was taken care of. Even when the volcano erupted and I had to be rerouted, the team came through with no issue. I have never been more happy with a travel company. They aim to please, literally at all costs. Unbelievable service, reliable, and economical. I will use again and again and again. Thank you so very much”