Indonesia Self Drive
Choose where you sleep
- Amanjiwo
- Amankila
- Ibah Bali
- Taman Sari
Start the journey by visiting the Royal City of Yogyakarta (Jogjakarta) on Java's south coast, considered to be the cultural heart of Java and home to the World's single largest Buddhist monument, the ancient temple of Borobudur - one of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World.
Jogja is famous for its rich artistic heritage and remains a key centre for the performing arts, including legging dance, gamelan music, puppetry (shadow and wooden puppets) and for batik painting, contemporary art, wood carving and furniture making. The market street, Jalan Malioboro, is a treasure trove for exotic purchases, and leads to the Sultan's Palace, the Keraton.
Within the Borobudur historical Park lies one of the world's most exclusive and beautiful hotels, the AmanJiwo - a romantic setting of the highest order - a perfect honeymoon launch pad and place to relax after the stresses and strains of wedding ornganising.
Continue east through lush countryside, winding through towering rice terraces, tea and coffee plantations. Witness the other worldly sunrise over Mt Bromo and visit the Ijen national Park, an area of exceptional biodiversity and a cauldron of volcanic activity. See the sulphur plumes and the turquoise-green crater lakes.
Arriving at the easternmost tip of Java, cross the narrow straight by ferry to the Hindu majority island of Bali and settle in to a charming beach resort on the north coast, far from the mass tourist areas of the south part of the island.
After a couple of days rest & relaxation here, snorkelling or diving the rich coral reefs and drop offs of the Manjangan National Marine Park and the nearby Taman Bali Barat National Park, set off to explore the "Island of the Gods" by self drive car. Enjoy getting lost amongst the maze of tiny, winding rural roads, knowing that your map and the ever hospitable locals will always help you back on your way. End each day checking in to a gorgeous little boutique hotel, set amidst Bali's picturesque, verdant rice terraces such as the Ibah or The Kamandalu.
Visit Ubud, the home of many artists, both Balinese and International, since the early 1920s with its many galleries. Every village in the surrounding hills has its own artistic tradition - one specialises in Gamelan music, another in Lagong Dance, another in wayan kulit (leather puppets for shadow puppet shows) or wayan golek (highly decorative wooden puppets), another in wood carving or batik printing. Sons and daughters for generations have followed their parents in the village's particular special artisan trade. Using your hire car, explore the charming country lanes that link these villages, each of which features 3 temples, one to honour each of 3 sets of spirits that are central to Balinese folklore, and take time to leisurely discover the rich tapestry of Balinese life.
Often you will stumble across a religious ceremony or wedding taking place, with processions of ornately dressed ladies carrying platters of fresh fruits on their heads as they head towards the appropriate temple to make heir offerings. Visitors are always welcome.
Several of the rivers that flow southwards from Bali's towering Gunung Agung volcano run in deep gorges, and the adventurous can embark upon a half day of adrenalin charged fun, white water rafting the foaming waters. There are also a several stunning crater lakes to explore and many wonderful walks to enjoy.
Wind up your holiday with a stay at one of Bali's renowned, super luxury, boutique spa resorts - such as the AmanKila, voted by Condé Nast Traveller as the best hotel in the world. Final days of delicious relaxation and pampering in one of the most beautiful and sensuous places in the world!
There are many variations possible, including some excellent scuba diving to be added along Bali's north coast or amongst the group of islands off the south east. A visit to neighbouring Lombok is also easy to arrange for a challenging trek up the towering Gunung Rinjani volcano, or more scuba diving amongst the tropical, sand-fringed Gili Islands - very popular amongst younger travellers.
And, of course, Java & Bali are not only for honeymooners. Bali, especially, is blessed with an amazing choice of accommodation scattered throughout the island, not only in the main tourist centres and not all of it super deluxe and expensive. Ask us about modelling an itinerary tailored to you and your own interests… and budget!
"Chris, many many thanks for everything. We had an absolutely awesome time: you pitched the level perfectly for the both of us – we loved every minute of it. The Aman hotels are something else –wow! And what a way to finish! Java was a fantastic place and we loved the contrast to Bali. Look forward to giving you a full debrief in due course, but just wanted to drop you a quick line to say thanks for everything….it was perfect!" - Will Gow, Antarctic Explorer, many of whose photos are featured here.