Indonesia
Java to Raja Ampat
31 days from £18,500 pp
Includes: international flights, transfers, accommodation, most meals, guides, drivers & their tips & immerisive experiences.
Overview & Highlights
Embark on a true trip of a lifetime to the remote Indonesian archipelago of Raja Ampat islands, with it’s incredible marine life and unique landscapes. Not only is this region one of the best protected biospheres in Indonesia but also worldwide. The archipelago between Maluku and West Papua off Sorong is home to over 1,500 islands covered in jungle, caves, pristine beaches and clear blue waters.
To properly explore Raja Ampat, it is best to select a small part and get to know its beauty in detail.
Begin with Java’s serene retreats and sacred temples before setting off on an immersive exploration of Indonesian Borneo’s jungles and Sulawesi’s lush landscapes. End on (another) high with a mesmerizing 10-day cruise through Raja Ampat’s unrivalled marine paradise.
- Unwind in the tranquil coffee plantations and wellness retreat of Mesastila
- Explore sacred Borobudur temple at sunrise with spectacular mountain views
- Drift through Tanjung Puting’s rivers to see orangutans up close
- Marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of Raja Ampat’s crystal-clear waters, get up close to Manta Rays and maybe Whale Sharks
- Spot the rare Red Bird of Paradise in its natural rainforest habitat
- Immerse yourself in Java’s arts with traditional performances and batik workshops
- Hike volcanic landscapes on Sangeang for unique snorkelling over black sand
- 10 day Raja Ampat sea cruise
“This incredible region of remote Indonesia is a nature lovers paradise. Tropical jungles, dramatic volcanic mountains, superb birdwatching and marine life with one of the best bio diversities on the planet and a dream destination for divers.”
Wildlife and nature is in abundance everywhere you go in the Raja Ampat islands. It’s estimated that three-quarters of the world’s species live here among these islands – a nature-lover’s dream come true!
Diving is the main activity in Raja Ampat and moving by boat is the best (often the only) way to get around, due to the distance between the islands. Wildlife is in abundance both underwater and above ground, so snorkelling and diving are excellent ways to enjoy the absolute best of what the islands have to offer. Spot some 500 species of corals, and hundreds of mollusc variations, brushing past thousands of types of coral fish.
This itinerary offers a transformative journey through the heart of Southeast Asia and Indonesia’s most remarkable destinations, ideal for travellers seeking cultural depth and natural beauty.
- Day 1: Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Yogyakarta in Indonesia (via Singapore).
- Days 2 – 3: On arrival in Indonesia, transfer to a serene wellness retreat nestled in Central Java’s volcanic landscape is a lovely place to relax and acclimatize. Here, unwind amidst coffee plantations and enjoy daily activities like yoga, plantation tours, and spa treatments. Engage with nature and refresh in the cool mountain air.
- Days 4-7: Next stop is a colonial-style hideaway near Borobudur. Visit Borobudur itself, the largest Buddhist monument in the world, with magical views over the temple’s stupas and Mount Merapi. Travel through the Javanese countryside, exploring local culture and art. Spend a further two days in Yogyakarta, the heart of Javanese fine arts. Visit the breathtaking Prambanan Temple and explore local art, such as batik workshops. Discover the city by night, strolling markets and enjoying traditional performances and cuisine with your guide.
- Days 8-9: Travel east aboard the Sancaka Express train to Surabaya, where you’ll check in to a heritage hotel. Delve into Surabaya’s colonial history with a city tour, exploring the House of Sampoerna, the Heroes Monument, and the cultural heart of Chinatown.
- Days 10-12: Take a short flight to Pangkalanbun (Indonesian Borneo) for a three-day river adventure on the Kalimantan Explorer, a traditional Klotok boat. Journey through Tanjung Puting National Park to spot orangutans up close, with opportunities to participate in feeding programs and visit Camp Leakey’s research centre.
- Days 13-16: Back to East Java to explore Mount Bromo’s incredible landscape and witness the magical sunset over the crater. Continue to Tugu Malang, a unique hotel rich in local art, and stay for a further night to explore Malang’s historic charm and flower-filled streets.
- Days 17-20: Today, you’ll leave Java for North Sulawesi, where you’ll spend 4 nights. Staying in Tomahon, you’ll explore the scenic Minahasa Highlands, visiting villages, vibrant markets, and scenic lakes. Experience local Minahasan culture and enjoy panoramic mountain views before going to a beachside eco-resort, perfect for unwinding with access to Bunaken National Marine Park. Dive, snorkel, or relax on the beach, taking in the beautiful underwater landscapes of this world-renowned marine park.
- Days 21-30: 10-day cruise
- Fly east from Manado to Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat, and check in for a night on land at the Swiss-Belhotel Sorong. Relax and prepare for your epic 10-day cruise exploring the staggering islands, reefs, and marine life of Raja Ampat. Set sail with SeaTrek Indonesia on a traditional phinisi ship to discover lush forests, serene bays, and thriving coral gardens. The route and itinerary are flexible around local conditions, but a typical route around Raja Ampat with SeaTrek Indonesia is as follows:
- Day 1: Embark and sail south before snorkelling and sitting down to a welcome dinner under the stars.
- Day 2: Discover the Misool archipelago’s limestone islets and coral reefs.
- Day 3: Swim with stingless jellyfish in a lake and explore caves with ancient paintings.
- Day 4: Trek to view the Lesser Birds of Paradise, snorkel more vibrant reefs, and go on a magical sunset sail.
- Day 5: Visit Batanta for a jungle hike to waterfalls, village visits, and kayaking.
- Day 6: Learn about pearl farming and snorkel among pristine coral reefs.
- Day 7: Continue exploring diverse coral reefs and marine life around small, linked islands.
- Day 8: Snorkel the Fishbowl at Yenuba, then visit Mansuar island to encounter big fish and turtles.
- Day 9: Head to Wayag’s iconic peaks, which have phenomenal panoramic views, and celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner.
- Day 31: After your once-in-a-lifetime adventure, catch a flight from Sorong to Jakarta for a final night in Indonesia. Explore the city’s bustling energy, or relax at your hotel. It is possible to fly back via Bali but flights from Sorong to Bali are less frequent than those to Jakarta.
- Day 32: Depart on your international flight home
The above is a sample month long journey, shorter options and variations are available. The ‘from’ price is a guideline based on the above itinerary and depends on time of year, flight prices and bespoke itinerary planning.
Contact me to plan your trip of a lifetime to Raja Ampat!
You may also like these holidays Wildlife of Borneo, Sulawesi & the spice islands, Secrets of Melanesia (Papua New Guinea, Soloman Islands and Vanuatu).
A few impressions…
“Jules, your planning and organisation was excellent again!
On the trip up the Kinabantagan River we saw what I have always wanted to see, Proboscis monkeys as well as Orang Utans in the wild. We also spent a happy couple of hours having lunch at a local village and planting trees.
The guides were very knowledgeable and the Malayan people absolutely delightful. The best bit of the couple of days at the beach was the Bornean Culinary Experience.”
Ian Furbank
Let us begin the journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.
