DAY 1 | TRAVEL

After landing at Surabaya Juanda International Airport, you’ll make your way through arrivals, grab your bags, and take a taxi or coach to Gun Yun House. Once you’ve checked in and had a moment to settle, you can head out for breakfast or lunch (depending or arrival time) nearby before starting your first bit of exploring.

When you’re ready, take a Grab over to the Rainbow Village to wander through the colourful alleyways where entry costs around IDR 10,000, then continue on to the Blue Village just a few minutes away. After soaking up the atmosphere and taking photos, head back to the hostel to rest, shower, and unwind after the journey. In the evening, go out for dinner at a local warung or grab something simple before calling it an early night so you’re fresh for the next day’s adventures.

Activities: Fly into Surabaya (Juanda International Airport), Rainbow Village, Blue Village

Accommodation: Gun Yun House

DAY 2 | EAST JAVA

The day starts with the Mador Hostel tour team picking you up directly from Gun Yun House, so there’s no need to travel anywhere to begin the tour. After meeting the group and loading your bags, you’ll start the journey toward Tumpak Sewu, stopping along the way for breakfast or snacks depending on your pickup time.

Once you arrive at the waterfall area, the guides will lead you down the trail to the famous viewpoint before continuing the descent to the base of Tumpak Sewu. After exploring the waterfall and visiting Goa Tetes, you’ll hike back up and have time to rest, grab lunch, and enjoy the scenery. In the afternoon, the group heads to the nearby guesthouse where you’ll check in and relax. Dinner is usually arranged at the accommodation or a local warung, giving you a chilled evening before the early start the next morning for Mount Bromo.

Activities: Tumpak Sewu Waterall, Goa Tetes Caves

Accommodation: Mador Hostel

DAY 3 | EAST JAVA

The day starts before sunrise as the tour team wakes everyone up and loads you into the 4x4 jeeps for the drive to the Mount Bromo viewpoint. After a short ride through the dark volcanic landscape, you’ll reach the viewpoint in time to watch the sky change colours over the Bromo crater which is one of the most iconic sunrises in Indonesia. Once the sun is up, the jeeps continue down to the Sea of Sand, where you’ll walk across the ash fields and climb the steps to the crater.

After exploring the area and taking photos, the group stops for breakfast before beginning the long but scenic drive toward the Ijen region. You’ll arrive at the second guesthouse in the afternoon, giving you time to rest, and have dinner before preparing for the very early start the next morning for the Ijen crater hike.

Activities: Mount Bromo

Accommodation: Mador Hostel

DAY 4 | EAST JAVA & UBUD

Your final tour day begins in the early hours as the guides wake you for the Ijen crater hike. After a short drive to the trail entrance, you’ll begin the steady climb to the rim, reaching the top in time for sunrise over the bright turquoise lake. It’s worth noting that Ijen is closed on the first Friday of every month, so if your trip falls on that date, the tour will adjust the schedule or skip the hike entirely.

Once you’ve explored the crater rim and taken photos, you’ll hike back down for breakfast before starting the journey toward Bali. The tour includes your full transfer to Ubud, with a ferry crossing from Java to Bali followed by a comfortable drive inland. After checking into Sunshine Vintage Hostel and taking some time to rest, you can head out for the Campuhan Ridge Walk at sunset though if you’re feeling tired from the early start and long travel day, it’s completely fine to skip it and enjoy a relaxed evening instead.

Activities: Mount Ijen, Sunset Campuhan Ridge Walk

Accommodation: Sunshine Vintage Hostel

DAY 5 | UBUD

Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast before heading to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where entry costs around IDR 80,000 per person. You’ll wander through shaded jungle paths, ancient temples, and moss‑covered statues while watching the macaques roam freely around the sanctuary.

After your visit, make your way north to the Tegalalang Rice Fields, which usually ask for a small IDR 10,000–20,000 donation at the entrance. Once inside, you can walk along the terraces, enjoy the views, and stop at one of the cafés overlooking the valley. After exploring the rice fields, head back to Ubud for lunch, shopping, or a slow afternoon in town. The rest of the day is flexible, giving you time to unwind or explore at your own pace.

Activities: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegalalang Rice Fields

Accommodation: Sunshine Vintage Hostel

DAY 6 | UBUD

Start the day with breakfast in Ubud before meeting your private driver, who will take you out for a relaxed waterfall hopping day. Your first stop is Tibumana Waterfall (entry IDR 20,000), a peaceful spot with an easy walk and a calm pool at the base. From there, continue to Tukad Cepung Waterfall (entry IDR 15,000–20,000), where sunlight beams through the canyon walls and creates a dramatic atmosphere.

After exploring, you can stop for lunch at a local warung or a simple café along the route. Your final waterfall is Tegenungan (entry IDR 20,000), where you can enjoy wide viewpoints or walk down to the base for a closer look. If you still have energy, your driver can take you to a viewpoint café for a drink before heading back to Ubud. In the evening, grab dinner in town or relax at your accommodation the rest of the night is completely flexible.

Activities: Tibumana Waterfall, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall

Accommodation: Sunshine Vintage Hostel

DAY 7 | UBUD & ULUWATU

Your day begins before sunrise as you’re picked up for the Mount Batur hike, one of Bali’s most iconic viewpoints. After reaching the summit, you’ll watch the sun rise over the volcanic landscape and enjoy a simple breakfast before making your way back down. Once you return to Ubud, you’ll gather your things and travel south to Uluwatu, settling into Lazy Lama Hostel for the next part of your trip.

In the afternoon, head to Uluwatu Temple, where entry is around IDR 50,000. You can wander the clifftop paths, enjoy the ocean views, and explore the temple grounds before taking your seat for the Kecak Fire Dance (ticket around IDR 150,000). The performance takes place at sunset, creating an incredible backdrop as the sky turns orange over the cliffs. After the show, you can grab dinner nearby or return to the hostel to relax for the night.

Activities: Mount Batur, Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Fire Dance

Accommodation: The Lazy Lama Hostel

DAY 8 | ULUWATU

Start your morning with breakfast before heading to Suluban Beach, a dramatic spot known for its cave‑like entrance and rugged cliffs. There’s no official entry fee, but you may pay a small IDR 5,000–10,000 parking fee depending on your driver. Spend a little time exploring the rock formations and viewpoints before continuing to Padang Padang Beach, which has an entry fee of around IDR 15,000. This is one of Uluwatu’s most iconic beaches, with turquoise water, soft sand, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking it slow for the day.

You can grab lunch from one of the small beach cafés or head up to the road for more options. Stay as long as you like, and if you’re still in the mood later, you can enjoy sunset drinks at a nearby clifftop bar before returning to Lazy Lama Hostel for a chilled evening.

Activities: Suluban Beach, Padang Padang Beach

Accommodation: The Lazy Lama Hostel

DAY 9 | ULUWATU & NUSA PENIDA

Start the morning with breakfast in Uluwatu before heading to Sanur Harbour, where you’ll catch a fast boat to Nusa Penida (around 30–45 minutes). Once you arrive, make your way to your accommodation to check in and drop your bags, then grab a quick early lunch or snacks nearby before hiring a private driver for an afternoon on the island’s east coast.

Your first stop is Diamond Beach (entry IDR 25,000), with its bright turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic cliff‑side staircase. After enjoying the views, continue to Atuh Beach (same entrance fee), a slightly quieter bay with beautiful rock formations and a few simple warungs where you can buy drinks or a light snack. Finish the afternoon at the Rumah Pohon Treehouse viewpoint (entry IDR 25,000), where you’ll get sweeping views over the cliffs and bays below. In the evening, your driver will take you back to your accommodation, and you can head out for dinner at a nearby restaurant or at the hostel.

Activities: Ferry (Bali → Nusa Pendia), Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Rumah Pohon Treehouse

Accommodation: The Penida Project Hostel

DAY 10 | NUSA PENDIA

Start your morning with breakfast before joining your manta ray snorkelling tour, which usually departs around 7–8 AM. The boat will take you to Manta Point, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel with reef manta rays in their natural environment. After that, you’ll stop at either Gamat Bay or Crystal Bay, depending on sea conditions, for colourful coral and clear water. You’ll return to shore late morning.

Once you’re back, grab an early lunch at a nearby warung or café before meeting your driver for the afternoon’s west‑coast tour. Your first stop is Broken Beach (entry IDR 25,000), a natural arch overlooking bright blue water. Just next door is Angel’s Billabong, a dramatic rock pool with swirling waves below, beautiful for photos but not safe for swimming.

Finish the day at Kelingking Beach (same entry fee), one of Indonesia’s most iconic viewpoints. You can admire the cliff from above or walk partway down the steep trail if you want a closer look. After exploring, your driver will take you back to the hostel for a relaxed evening.

Activities: Manta Ray Snorkelling, Broken Beach, Angels Billabong, Kelingking Beach

Accommodation: The Penida Project Hostel

DAY 11 | NUSA PENIDA & GILI TRAWANGAN

Start your morning with breakfast on Nusa Penida before heading to the harbour to catch your ferry to Gili Trawangan. The journey usually takes around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the boat and sea conditions. Once you arrive on Gili Trawangan, walk to the Hostel (which is only a 10 minutes away) to check in and settle in.

After dropping your bags, hire a bicycle as it is the best way to get around Gili Trawangan since there are no cars or motorbikes on the island. Then grab some lunch at one of the beach cafés and spend the afternoon cycling along the coastal path, stopping at quiet beaches, snorkelling spots, or beach bars as you go. You can also visit the west side of the island for beautiful viewpoints and relaxed stretches of sand.

In the evening, head to one of the beachfront venues that host a free outdoor cinema most nights. Pick a beanbag, order dinner or snacks, and enjoy a chilled movie night under the stars, the perfect slow end to your first day on Gili Trawangan.

Activities: Ferry (Nusa Penida → Gili Trawangan), Explore Gili Trawangan (on a bike), Free Outside Sunset Cinema

Accommodation: Tipsea Turtle Hostel

DAY 12 | GILI TRAWANGAN

Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast at your hostel, then enjoy a slow start to the day, wander to the beach, grab a smoothie bowl, or cycle around the island. Instead of joining the busy morning snorkelling tours, I recommend booking a late‑afternoon trip, as it’s much quieter and you’ll often have the snorkelling spots almost to yourself.

After lunch at one of the beachfront cafés, join your boat crew and head out to the first stop: the turtle snorkelling area just off Gili Trawangan, where you can often see green sea turtles gliding through the water. Next, you’ll visit the famous Underwater Statue at Gili Meno, followed by more snorkelling around the reefs nearby. The final stop is Gili Air, where you can swim, relax on the boat, or grab a drink from a beach bar before heading back as the sun begins to set.

Return to Gili Trawangan in the early evening and grab dinner at the night market or a beachfront restaurant before heading back to Tipsea Turtle Hostel for a chilled night or heading over to the strip.

Activities: Snorkelling & Gili Islands Tour (Turtle Snorkelling, Underwater Statue, Gili Meno, Gili Air)

Accommodation: Tipsea Turtle Hostel

DAY 13 | GILI TRAWANGAN & LOMBOK

Start your morning with breakfast on Gili Trawangan before heading to the harbour to catch the ferry to Bangsal Harbour on Lombok. The crossing is short and straightforward. Once you arrive, take a taxi down to Kuta Lombok, which usually takes around 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. After checking in to Tiga Spies, grab some lunch in town before hiring a motorbike which is the easiest way to explore this part of the island.

In the afternoon, ride out into the South Lombok hills, where the roads are smooth, the scenery is wide open, and the viewpoints are some of the best in the region. Stop at Fulk Café, a relaxed spot tucked into the hills with great views and cold drinks, perfect for a mid‑afternoon break.

As the day cools down, continue your ride to Bukit Merese, one of Lombok’s most beautiful sunset spots. Walk along the ridge line, find a quiet viewpoint, and watch the sky turn orange over the coastline. After sunset, head back to Kuta for dinner at one of the local restaurants before returning to the hostel for the night.

Activities: Ferry (Gili Trawangan → Lombok), South Lombok Coastal Hill Loop, Bukit Merese Sunset

Accommodation: Tiga Spies Hostel

DAY 14 | LOMBOK

Start your morning with breakfast in Kuta before heading out for a slow, easy beach day. You can choose from nearby spots like Tanjung Aan, Selong Belanak, or Kuta Beach. All great for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the scenery. If you’re interested in surfing, Selong Belanak is one of the best beginner‑friendly beaches in Indonesia, with plenty of surf schools offering lessons or simple board rentals.

Grab lunch at a beachfront warung or café, then spend the afternoon sunbathing, reading, or hopping between beaches. If you feel like exploring, you can ride your motorbike to a few nearby viewpoints for wide coastal views.

As the day cools down, head back to Kuta for dinner at one of the local restaurants before returning to the hostel for a chilled evening.

Activities: Surfing/Sunbathing, Tanjung Aan, Selong Belanak, Kuta Beach

Accommodation: Tiga Spies Hostel

DAY 15 | LOMBOK & KOMODO ISLANDS

Start your morning with breakfast in Kuta before being picked up directly from your accommodation by Wanua Adventure. They’ll drive you to the departure harbour which is usually Bangsal Harbour on the northwest coast of Lombok, or occasionally Labuan Lombok on the east side depending on the boat schedule. Once you arrive, you’ll check in, meet the crew, and board your liveaboard for the next three nights.

The boat sets off around late morning or midday, beginning the slow journey east toward the Komodo Islands. The first day is relaxed: you’ll settle into the deck, grab lunch onboard, and enjoy the views as you sail past small islands and turquoise bays. There’s usually a snorkelling stop on the first afternoon at a calm reef, giving you your first taste of the marine life in this region. As the sun begins to set, the boat anchors near a quiet island, and you’ll enjoy dinner on deck while the sky turns orange — the perfect start to your Komodo adventure.

Activities: Sailing, Snorkelling, Sunset Views

Accommodation: Wanua Adventure

DAY 16 | KOMODO ISLANDS

Wake up early as the boat anchors near Padar Island, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Indonesia. After a quick coffee, you’ll hike up to the ridge for sunrise, the famous three‑bay view with rolling hills and turquoise water. It’s one of the biggest highlights of the entire Komodo trip and absolutely worth the early start.

After heading back to the boat for breakfast, you’ll sail to Pink Beach, known for its soft rose‑coloured sand and clear water. Spend the morning snorkelling over coral gardens, swimming, or relaxing on the beach while the crew prepares lunch onboard.

In the afternoon, the boat continues to Komodo Island, where you’ll take a guided walk with local rangers to see the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. You’ll learn about their behaviour, the island’s ecosystem, and get the chance to spot dragons up close (but safely).

As the day cools down, the boat sails toward Kalong Island, where thousands of flying foxes take to the sky at sunset. Enjoy dinner on deck while watching the bats stream across the horizon a perfect end to your second day at sea.

Activities: Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Snorkelling, Sailing, Sunset Views

Accommodation: Wanua Adventure

DAY 17 | KOMODO ISLANDS

Start the day with breakfast on deck as the boat heads toward Manta Point, one of the best places in Komodo National Park to see giant manta rays. If the currents are right, you’ll jump in and snorkel alongside these huge, graceful creatures as they glide through the water. Afterward, the boat continues to Taka Makassar, a tiny white‑sand crescent surrounded by bright turquoise shallows. Spend the late morning swimming, relaxing on the sandbank, and snorkelling over the nearby reefs.

In the afternoon, the boat begins its long sail east toward the volcanic island of Sangeang. This stretch is slow and scenic perfect for reading, napping, or watching the coastline drift by. Sangeang is known for its black‑sand beaches, underwater volcanic bubbles, and occasional whale shark sightings. While not guaranteed, this is the day when the crew keeps an eye out; if conditions are right and whale sharks are in the area, you may get the chance to jump in for a rare and unforgettable encounter.

As the sun sets, you’ll enjoy dinner on deck and anchor near a quiet island for your final night at sea, ending the day with calm water, warm air, and the rhythm of the boat.

Activities: Manta Point, Taka Makassar, Whale Shark Spotting, Snorkelling, Sailing, Sunset Views

Accommodation: Wanua Adventure

DAY 18 | KOMODO ISLANDS & LABUAN BAJO

Your final morning on the boat starts with a stop at Kanawa Island, a small coral‑fringed island known for its clear water and colourful reef. You’ll have time for one last snorkel, spotting clownfish, starfish, and bright coral gardens before heading back onboard for breakfast.

After packing up your things, the boat begins its final journey toward Labuan Bajo, arriving around late morning or early afternoon. You’ll say goodbye to the crew and your boatmates before stepping back onto land. From the harbour, it’s a short transfer to Bajo Bunk House, your base for the night.

The rest of the day is yours to unwind grab a smoothie bowl, wander the harbour front, or head up to a rooftop bar for sunset views over the islands you’ve just explored. It’s the perfect slow landing after three nights at sea and a comfortable place to reset before your onward journey.

Activities: Kanawa Island, Snorkelling, Sailing, Exploring Labuan Bajo Town

Accommodation: Bajo Bunk House

DAY 19 | LABUAN BAJO

With a full day in Labuan Bajo, you can take your time exploring the best viewpoints, cafés, and local spots around town. Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast near the harbour or head up to Bukit Amelia for sweeping views over the islands, easy to reach and give you that classic Flores landscape without needing a tour.

Back in town, wander along the harbour front where you’ll find smoothie bowls, seafood grills, and coffee shops overlooking the boats. The local market is worth a visit too, especially in the morning when it’s busiest with fresh produce, spices, and everyday life. If you want a small adventure, take a trip to Rangko Cave, a hidden blue-water cave pool just outside town it’s a fun half‑day trip and one of Labuan Bajo’s most unique spots.

In the late afternoon, head back toward the harbour for sunset. Potentially a rooftop restaurant, the waterfront offers great views as the sky turns orange over the islands. It’s a chilled, easy day that lets you enjoy Labuan Bajo’s atmosphere before the final stretch of your trip.

Activities: Bukit Amelia, Rangko Cave

Accommodation: Bajo Bunk House

DAY 20 | Labuan Bajo & CangGu

Start the day with a morning flight from Labuan Bajo to Bali, giving you enough time to settle into Canggu without rushing. Once you land at Denpasar Airport, grab a taxi or GoJek and head straight to Lushy Hostel, your base for the next part of the trip. After checking in, take a moment to have a quick rest after the travel day.

In the afternoon, head out to explore Canggu’s easy highlights. Wander along Batu Bolong or Canggu’s main street, stopping at cafés, smoothie bars, and small boutiques. If you’re feeling energised, walk down to Batu Bolong Beach for a chilled couple of hours watching surfers or relaxing on the sand. As the day cools down, stay to watch the sunset on Canggu’s beachfront, perfect for a laid‑back drink and a slow evening. It’s a gentle re‑entry into Bali life after the adventure of Komodo and a great way to settle into Canggu’s coastal vibe.

Activities: Flight (Labuan Bajo Airport to Denpasar Airport), Sunset Views, Batu Bolong

Accommodation: Lushy Hostel

DAY 21 | Travel

Your final day in Bali starts with a relaxed morning at Lushy Hostel. Grab breakfast at one of Canggu’s nearby cafés. If time allows, you can browse a few local boutiques or pick up any last‑minute souvenirs before packing up.

When it’s time to leave, make your way to Denpasar International Airport (DPS), the drive usually takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Arrive with plenty of time to check in, grab a snack, and settle in before your flight. After three weeks of volcanoes, islands, jungles, and ocean adventures, this is where your Indonesia journey comes to a close as you fly home.

Activities: Flight to your next destination/home from Denpasar (Denpasar International Airport)