The Best 2 Weeks Java Backpacking Itinerary (+tips for 7-10 days)

I silently sigh every time someone tells me they’re going to Indonesia, but it turns out they’re only staying in Bali. Indonesia has over 17000 different islands for crying out loud!

Right next to Bali is the most populous island in the world – Java! Oh, it’s not only people there. This Java backpacking guide will take you through waterfalls, volcanoes, mountains, cities, ancient temples, authentic markets, beautiful rice paddies, and lovely train rides.

This is the only Java backpacking itinerary you will ever need to see. I’ve compiled everything I know about backpacking in Java, all my travel tips and tricks about the best places to visit on the island from Jakarta to Bali.

Let’s dive in!

Java Quick Facts

In Java, you will find megapolises with shiny malls, ancient temples with dusty tas reliefs, growling volcanoes with awesome sunrises, terrific waterfalls with icy sprays, little villages, cultural hubs, spicy food, weird chicken-shaped temples and so much more!

Java Backpacking Itinerary at a glance

The following examples itineraries on Java all assume you land in Jakarta and want to reach Bali overland.

Everything in this guide and the itineraries is perfectly reversible.

You can start in Bali and finish in Jakarta (or Yogyakarta).

All of the places of interest and attractions are in this interactive map:

Day 1: Jakarta

Chances are, you will either land in Jakarta or fly out from it. Jakarta is unavoidable due to its well-connected airport.

The Big Durian is not just big, it’s humongous. Jakarta is projected to become the world’s biggest city by 2030.

Somehow it’s not what it’s most popular for. Come now, when I say Jakarta, you say traffic. Jakarta = traffic.

I once spent 4 hours on a bus from the airport to the city center (40 km). It’s horrible. Yes, other big cities in Java suffer from the same problem, but in Jakarta, it’s become ridiculous.

A running joke is that the best thing to do in Jakarta is to leave as fast as possible.

That’s why I give Jakarta only 1 day in my Java backpacking itinerary. If you have spare time, some of the notable places of interest are:

• The National Monument (Monas) and Merdeka Square;
• National Museum of Indonesia;
• Kota Tua (Old Batavia): The Old Town and a proposed UNESCO site;
• Menteng Flea Market;
• Istiqlal Mosque: Biggest in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, 6th biggest in the world;
• Taman Anggrek Mall: The biggest mall in Indonesia;
• Ancol Beach;

Days 2-3: Bandung

Traveling from Jakarta to Bandung you will gain 700 meters altitude. Bandung is situated high and as a result the regional climate there is cooler.

Bandung is nicknamed the Paris of Java because of its beauty and fashion industry.

Bandung is a large city and large cities in Java are busy. Still, it is a lot more organized than Jakarta and Surabaya. It has this classy feel if you wish.

Bandung’s surroundings are in stark contrast with the city. Tea plantations, active volcanoes, strawberry farms… all within 30 minutes of the borders of the city.

First day in Bandung

Taman Hutan Raya

Upon arrival from Jakarta, take a moment to have lunch somewhere around Pasar Baru, just 5 min from Bandung Station [map], or try some Indonesian fried snacks from a street vendor.

Drop off your backpack in your hostel (I recommend Tokyo Cubo) and take the Green or Orange Angkot (Angkots are the minibuses that serve as Bandung’s public transport. Their routes are on Google Maps) all the way to Taman Hutan Raya, a large conservation area park with a botanical garden.

Lembang Floating Market

You may walk through the park to Lembang (about 10 km but very pleasant) where you can find the Lembang Floating Market. Just make sure you arrive before 17:00 because the market closes at 18:00.

Alternatively, walk in the park, then head back and take an angkot in the direction of the city.

The Lembang Floating Market should be a charming experience where traditional market culture meets a unique twist. Unfortunately, I found it tacky and overly touristic. Everything was set up in a way that resembled an open-air amusement park. Around the floating market are a lot of activities that are more suited to the younger audience.

Moreover, every activity charges an entrance fee and the whole area also charges for an entrance ticket (35.000 IDR/2.3$). Suffice it to say, it’s not the most authentic experience, but to each his own.

To return to Bandung take the creamy gray Angkot from Terminal Lembang or a Grab taxi.

Jalan Braga

In Kota Bandung, you must have a walk down Jalan Braga, a historic avenue known for its colonial-era architecture, shops, cafes, and art spaces.

Gedung Sate

Take an hour to visit Gedung Sate – an iconic government building featuring Dutch colonial architecture and a museum showcasing local history.

In the evenings, Bandung’s youth gathers around to socialize and play games. Street vendors are omnipresent, of course, so you can buy a snack, take a seat, and enjoy the vibe.

Second Day in Bandung

There are many options for activities in and around Bandung on day 2, but the 2 most impressive ones are the active volcanoes Tangkuban Perahu and Kawah Putih.

Tangkuban Perahu

Tangkuban Perahu is a stratovolcano known for its unique upside-down, boat-shaped crater. Did I mention it’s an active volcano? Like smoking gas active? Isn’t that pretty cool?

To reach it by public transport, take the same creamy gray Angkot from yesterday towards Lembang. Then take another one towards Cikole. Get off at the entrance to Tangkuban Perahu and continue on foot.

The volcano is only 30 km from Bandung, so if you want a faster and more convenient transport option, just get a Grab taxi.

The entrance fee to Tangkuban Perahu is 200.000 IDR / 13$ (weekday) or 300.000 / 20$ (weekend) for foreigners. It’s expensive and you will see a trend in Indonesia where attractions cost 10 times what the locals pay. It is what it is.

Kawah Putih

Kawah Putih is a stunning white crater lake located south of Bandung with an almost surreal landscape.

With a name meaning “White Crater”, it does indeed hold up to it – the water has an odd white hue embellished by the rising sulfuric steam.

Kawah Putih is a bit far from Bandung, at least if you want to go by public transport. That’s why, if you want to visit it, it’s best to take this White Crater Tour, which also includes a visit to the famous Kawah Rengganis hot springs.

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At the end of your stay in Bandung, take an overnight train to Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java.

There are many trains every day departing from both Bandung and Kiaracondong stations bound for both Yogyakarta Tugu and Lempuyangan stations of Jogja.

Day 4-6: Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, or Jogja, is the real deal when it comes to Javanese culture, ancient architecture, wonderful cuisine, and adrenalin-filled experiences. It is a definite stop in any Java itinerary. Do NOT skip.

Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta is one of only two special regions in Indonesia (the other one being the ultra-conservative Muslim Aceh) and the only place in the archipelago still ruled by a monarch – in this case the Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X.

In September 2023, Yogyakarta became Indonesia’s newest UNESCO heritage site!

The cosmological axis of Yogyakarta, an imaginary line running from Mount Merapi, through the Sultan’s Palace, all the way to the South Seas, was awarded the recognition at a meeting of UNESCO in Saudi Arabia.

You can walk the axis starting at Tugu Monument, down by Malioboro, the north alun-alun, through the Kraton, the south alun-alun, leave the walled city, and walk all the way to the south gate Panggung Krapyak.

Then on a day trip, you can reach the axis end at Parangtritis Beach and in the evening go on a Lava Tour to the Merapi Volcano where the axis begins.

I called Yogyakarta home on and off for 8 months in 2023/24 and it’s my favorite city in Java!

First day in Yogyakarta

Read my recommendations about things to do in Yogyakarta, including detailed information about the places in this guide.

Prawirotaman

Assuming you arrive in the morning with the overnight train from Bandung, you’re probably a bit tired. Take it easy!

Drop off your bags in one of the cool garden-style hostels or guesthouses around Prawirotaman (the so-called “bule (foreigner) area“).

I recommend Arjuna Garden Homestay.

Take a walk around Prawirotaman and enjoy the cool street art. Go into the smaller streets to appreciate the quaint character of Jogja.

Kraton Yogyakarta

Kraton Yogyakarta, the royal palace of the Sultan, embodies Javanese culture and history. Ornate architecture, courtyards, and cultural artifacts depict its significance as a living heritage site.

It preserves traditions through daily performances and ceremonies open to visitors.

Even though the Sultan lives there, chances are you won’t get to see him. Even locals who live right next to the Kraton tell me that they’ve never seen him in person! Odd, isn’t it?

Taman Sari

Taman Sari, Yogyakarta’s water palace, melds beauty and history. Built in the 18th century, it is an area of pools, gardens, and unique architecture.

Taman Sari is walking distance away from the Kraton (well, it was where the first Sultans kept their concubines after all) so it’s logical to combine them.

Notable mention to the underground mosque – something you don’t see every day. Albeit in bad condition, it’s a peculiar place that you won’t find elsewhere.

Malioboro

In the evening go to Yogyakarta’s main artery – Jalan Maliboro.

Malioboro is lined with shops, stalls, and street vendors. It is an iconic destination in Yogyakarta for its lively spirit and hundreds of shops, vendors, street art performers, cafes, malls, you name it.

Malioboro comes alive every evening and it may get very very busy on the weekend as Yogyakarta is very popular with internal tourists from the rest of Java.

Alun-alun Kidul

On your way back to Prawirotaman, stop at the south public square, also known as Alun-alun with “kidul” meaning south. Just call it “Alkid” if you want to be cool.

You can’t miss it – look for the two giant Masagin trees in the middle of an empty slot of 110m. x 110m. land, surrounded by street food stalls and neon pedaled cars called odong-odong.

Close your eyes facing the middle of the trees, rotate in one place 4-5 times, then try to walk through the middle of the trees in what’s called the Masagin Challenge. Shall you succeed, great things await you, or so the legend goes.

Don’t forget to try some of the amazing Indonesian street food snacks on the over 100 stalls around the alun-alun.

After dinner, look for some of these Indonesian desserts to cater to your sweet tooth!

Second day in Yogyakarta

Your second day in Yogyakarta is what I call the Ancient Heritage Experience. Today you visit the other 2 UNESCO heritage sites around Yogyakarta that make it such a popular destination – Borobudur and Prambanan (for maximum accuracy, Borobudur is part of Central Java, but who cares)

Check this in-depth guide on how to visit Borobudur and Prambanan in 1 day, including how to reach Borobudur by direct bus from Terminal Jombor.

Alternatively, check out this one about sunrise at Borobudur and this one about sunset at Prambanan. This is the order people usually visit them, given their positions relative to the sun. However, you can visit them at any time during the day with minimal loss of experience.

You should also read about the amazing Ramayana Ballet with shows taking place right next to Prambanan every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Borobudur Buddhist Temple

Borobudur, Indonesia’s ancient marvel, stands as a colossal Buddhist temple (the biggest in the world actually). Constructed in the 9th century, it showcases intricate carvings and tiered stupas, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.

Check this up-to-date article about how to reach Borobudur, climb up the stupas, and watch the sunrise.

Chicken Church (Gereja Ayam)

Very near Borobudur is this bizarre temple in the shape of a chicken. Well, no, actually it’s a dove, except for the fact it doesn’t look like a dove at all!

But oh my, oh my, what a funky story there is behind this oddity.

Prambanan Hindu Temple

Prambanan is an architectural masterpiece in Indonesia and my favorite temple. I stand corrected – Prambanan is a complex of over 200 temples, some big, some small.

That’s why I prefer it over Borobudur, which is massive, but at the end of the day, just 1. Both date to the 9th century (religious syncretism, right) and are absolutely magnificent, so if you have the budget (~30$ per temple, umph), definitely visit both.

You can reach Prambanan by bus 1A/K3J from Malioboro. For more details, check how to get from Yogyakarta to Prambanan.

Other Ancient Temples to visit around Yogyakarta

Since Prambanan and Borobudur are so famous, many think they are the only ones. On the contrary – there are hundreds of smaller Buddhist and Hindu temples spread around Yogyakarta.

Some of the best ones are:

• Mendut (close to Borobudur);
• Pawon (close to Borobudur);
• Sewu (close to Prambanan);
• Plaosan (close to Prambanan).

If you’re on a budget and can’t fork out 30 USD to visit the big temples, you can organize a solo adventure around Yogyakarta region to see smaller temples, some of which are just as exciting and mysterious.

Check these 20 temples around Yogyakarta for more information.

Check this out if you want to travel from Yogyakarta directly to Bali.

Third day in Yogyakarta

On your third day in Yogyakarta, it’s time for some adventures!

Find out what activities you can partake in Yogyakarta – these range from cooking classes to bicycle tours, to volcano jeep tours and rappeling down caves.

Speaking of caves, Goa Jomblang Cave is absolutely spectacular and totally worth a trip and a tour down its mouth.

Goa Jomblang

Goa Jomblang is an otherworldy natural wonder about 50 km southeast of Kota Yogyakarta. It’s a vertical cave with a “heaven’s light” phenomenon. You rappel down the cave and then look up at the hole with a sunbeam of light shining upon you. Absolutely marvelous.

While getting to Goa Jomblang independently is not impossible (just take a bus from Terminal Giwangan towards Wonosari, then take a Grab taxi to the cave), going down is not possible without booking beforehand.

I recommend this day tour from Yogyakarta which combines Goa Jomblang with Timang Beach.

Kampung Hunting back in Jogja

One thing I love about Jogja and is rarely talked about is the kampungs.

Kampungs are Indonesian neighborhoods, characterized by small winding alleys, beautifully decorated walls, and tightly-knit communities, and are the place to visit to see how the locals really live.

You can see my favorite Kampungs in Jogja in my list of things to do in Yogyakarta.

Other things to do in Yogyakarta (if you have more time)

• Hike up to Merapi Volcano or do a Merapi Lava Safari tour with a jeep;
• Shop for Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile;
• Visit Fort Vredeburg Museum and learn about the Indonesian struggle for independence;
• Visit Sonobudoyo Museum to learn more about culture and art in Java;
• Visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum (in Kaliurang, the village closest to Merapi) to learn more about the dangerous volcano.
• Explore the Affandi Museum for contemporary art;
• Take a cycling tour around rural villages;
• Explore the underground river at Goa Pindul;
• Visit the occult Royal Cemetery at Imogiri or the even older Royal Cemetery at Kota Gede;
• Go to the beaches in the south. The most famous beach is Pantai Parangtritis.

Day 7: Dieng Plateau

Dieng is a volcanic plateau with a multi-colored lake, ancient Hindu temples (the oldest on Java!), and a pretty cool sunrise (when there aren’t too many tourists and it isn’t too misty).

It’s often overlooked by those backpacking in Java but is totally worth it. My 7 and 10-day itineraries don’t include it only because of the lack of time coupled with Dieng’s remote location in comparison to the main route. But the Dieng Plateau is exciting and awesome!

I have an in-depth guide about Dieng Plateau, including how to get there from Yogyakarta, where to sleep, and what to see and eat on a 1-day trip there.

The top things to see and do at Dieng Plateau are:

• Sikunir Hill: Watch the sunrise over the whole plateau and Mount Sundoro with the clouds under.
• Sikidang Crater: Witness the geothermal activity at this bubbling mud crater, surrounded by hissing steam vents and sulfur deposits.
• Arjuna Temple Complex: Explore the oldest Hindu temples in Java! Arjuna predates Prambanan by about 200 years!
• Colorful Lakes: Marvel at the vivid hues of Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon, two stunning lakes that change their appearance depending on the sunlight and whose waters don’t mix albeit being connected.
• Eat Carica: the local jelly-like dessert made with baby papayas.

Day 8: Semarang

To reach Semarang from Dieng Plateau, take a local minibus to Wonosobo, then transfer to an intercity bus at Terminal Mendolo going directly to Semarang.

Its Dutch colonial past is reflected in the architecture of the Old Town area (Kota Lama) which is so very different from the other cities in Java.

Also worth a visit are places like Lawang Sewu, a grand colonial-era building, and the Sam Poo Kong temple complex, one of the earliest Chinese temples in Java.

Near Semarang, about an hour south, you can visit the highest pagoda in Java – Avalokitesvara.

For information about all of these and more, check out my list of things to do in Semarang.

Day 9: Surakarta

Reach Surakarta from Semarang by a 2-hour early morning train from Semarang Tawang Station. It’s also connected to Yogyakarta with hourly commuter trains.

Surakarta is Yogyakarta’s smaller sister. It used to be a Sunanate (something like a Sultanate, but using a different word. As they say in Southeast Asia: “Same, same, but different”) with a special status which it lost because it wasn’t careful with its communists (I’m not joking, look it up).

Surakarta, commonly referred to as Solo, is a fun city anyhow. It stands out for its profound Javanese heritage – a bastion of traditional batik crafts, classical court dances, and Gamelan music. Solo – the Heart of Java.

In the center of Solo lies the impressive Kraton palace, a testament to its regal history.

One exciting thing about Surakarta is that it’s where remnants of the first humans on Java were found. What is now called Solo Man is evidence of the prehistoric life on Java. The Sangiran Museum of Ancient Man is a UNESCO heritage site.

If you want more, you should check out my list of top things to do in Surakarta and pick the ones you most like.

At the end of your stay in Surakarta (Solo for train booking purposes), take a train towards Malang. Trains depart from both Balapan and Jebres stations in Surakarta, bound for both Malang and Malang Kota Lama stations.

Day 10: Malang

Owing to its altitude, Malang is somewhat cooler than the hot Javanese lowlands. It is nicknamed Kota Dingin (Cold City).

Probably the most famous place in Malang is the colorful kampungs in the center of the city, namely Warna Warni, KWJ, and Tridi, as well as the azure blue kampung Biru Arema on the other side of the bridge.

I love getting lost in a kampung and this thing about Malang really does it for me!

If you’re a fan of urban exploration, then just walking around the city will do it for you.

Watch out for Alun-alun Malang and the Malang Jami Grand Mosque, the Flower and Bird markets (Pasar Bunga and Pasar Burung) as well as the Brawijaya Museum, for some history into the Independence struggle.

If you like ancient temples and nature more, pay a visit to the 13th-century Hindu temple Singosari on the outskirts of town and the Coban Rondo Waterfall, only about 30 km from Malang.

Day 11: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Visiting Tumpak Sewu is most convenient from Malang, the closest city to it. Your options to travel from Malang to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall are:

• Organized tour: It’s what most people do and is the easiest, but costly. I recommend this combination tour of Bromo Sunrise with Tumpak Sewu.
• Personal guide: Also expensive, but convenient. A motorcycle driver will set you back 400.000 IDR (26$) two-way, whereas a car will be up to 700.000 IDR (46$);
• Rent a motorcycle: That would be my choice. A motorcycle for a day costs ~100.000-150.000 IDR (6.5-10$), fuel is super cheap (10.000 IDR per liter, 1 liter lasts about 40 km) and it gives you total freedom. Travel time between Malang and Tumpak Sewu is 2 hours;
• Public Transport: This option is a bit tricky as buses are infrequent and only depart once full. Take the bus from Terminal Bayangan Gadang and get off within walking distance of Tumpak Sewu. Note that getting back to Malang by public bus might not be possible on the same day!

Tumpak Sewu, meaning “Thousand Waterfalls” in Javanese is the Niagara Falls of Java. I am not that good at describing natural wonders, so I prefer to let pictures speak for themselves – look above!

Just don’t skip it when backpacking in Java!

To reach the waterfall you have to do a short but thrilling trek through the jungle. There is a trail, you won’t get lost and you don’t need a guide.

After a 20-minute walk, you reach the viewpoint to see all of Tumpak Sewu from above. The view from this observation deck is truly a remarkable sight!

From the top, follow the trail down to the base of the waterfall. You will feel a bit like Tarzan with all the ropes and bamboo ladders in the midst of the jungle.

DO NOT WEAR FLIP-FLOPS THAT DAY!

The trek down isn’t dangerous, but you must be careful. If you’re not physically fit, it might be a good idea to enjoy Tumpak Sewu from above.

Otherwise, take your time trekking down, and beware of the slippery stones!

The entrance fee is 20.000 IDR / 1.3$.

Goa Tetes cave and waterfall

In the same locale as Tumpak Sewu there are many other smaller waterfalls and caves. The most picturesque and well-known is Goa Tetes.

As for Goa Tetes Waterfall: you can’t miss it as it’s right next to Tumpak Sewu.

The entrance fee is 10.000 IDR / 0.7$.

Back to Malang or stay in Pronojiwo

If you’re on an organized tour, you won’t really have to worry about this part of the journey.

You basically have two options: go back to Malang or don’t. If have rented a motorcycle, you should go back to return it (duh).

If you’re with a private driver, he will take you back to Malang, but if you’re using public transport, it might be wise to sleep in Pronojiwo, the town next to Tumpak Sewu.

Check out your accommodation options for Pronojiwo here.

Even if you stay in Pronojiwo, getting to Mount Bromo is easiest from Malang, through Probolinggo, from the other side of the mountain.

There are local buses from Pronojiwo to Probolinggo, but I don’t recommend them because they are just not comfortable and their timetables may leave you waiting for hours.

From Malang:

Day 12: Surabaya

Surabaya is the second biggest city in Indonesia, the capital of East Java province, and much like Jakarta is entirely skippable while backpacking in Java.

“Why is it here then, eh, why do you tell me to visit Surabaya and then tell me to skip it?”

Well, you see, I’d like to cover all my bases and give you options! There are still cool things to visit in Surabaya, it’s just that if you don’t have the time, you might decide to go around it.

So let me tell you about Surabaya then. The SharkCrocodile city (because Sura=shark and Baya=crocodile in Javanese) is a very busy city. There are no parks but it’s rich in history instead.

The city’s maritime heritage is evident in its busy port and historic sites like the Heroes Monument commemorating Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

If you want to visit something really unique, go to Surabaya’s House of Sampoerna – a historic cigarette factory turned museum where you can observe workers roll a minimum of 325 cigarettes per hour!

Some of the other places to check out in Surabaya include:

1. Ampel Mosque: One of the first mosques in Java. Surrounded by an Arab-themed souq market.
2. Suroboyo Carnival Night Market: Who doesn’t like a night market with rides, games, and local street food?
3. Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam): Tour a real submarine turned museum, offering insights into Indonesia’s naval history.
4. Siola Building: Get a panoramic view of the city from the observation deck of this modern building.

At the end of your stay in Surabaya, either book an organized tour of Bromo or travel independently to Probolinggo.

Read the linked blog post for a self-organized budget tour of Bromo and this one for how to visit Madakaripura waterfall.

Day 13: Bromo and Madakaripura

Ladies and gentlemen, the attractions you’ve all been waiting for: Gunung Bromo and Air Terjun Madakaripura!

No Java itinerary is truly complete without these two. Actually, no trip to Indonesia is really full until you visit Mount Bromo volcano. It is one of the most visited places in Indonesia!

Bromo Volcano

Bromo is shrowded in mysticism and often literally in clouds. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park hosts in total of 21 active and dormant volcanoes including the highest point in Java – Mount Semeru.

Around Bromo is the otherworldly Sea of Sand. Trips most often start with a pre-dawn trek to one of the viewpoints or the Bromo crater itself to witness a sunrise over the dramatic terrain (I prefer the latter to avoid the crowds at the popular viewpoints).

You can visit Bromo independently and take advantage of the secret entrance to avoid the exorbitant entrance fee.

All details, including transportation, where to sleep, how to clandestinely get in, and where to watch the sunrise over Bromo are explained in this Bromo budget guide.

Madakaripura Waterfall

Madakaripura is a super-high waterfall near Mount Bromo. It’s 200 meters! This makes it the second-highest in Indonesia!

As most people go on organized tours that rush you to the viewpoints, and then quickly bring you back to Surabaya or Malang, a lot of visitors miss out on the wonderful Madakaripura.

The waterfall is enveloped by lush vegetation and towering cliffs wrapping around you almost 360 degrees. It’s just so majestic!

It’s also a sacred site linked to the legend of Gajah Mada, an ancient Javanese warrior.

You will have to walk through streams and pools of water, sometimes up to your knees with water spraying over you.

And believe me when I tell you – oh you will get wet. Very, very wet!

Check out more logistical details in this guide to visiting Madakaripura.

Travel from Probolinggo to Banyuwangi

These last few days of the Java backpacking Itinerary seem quite rushed. I somewhat agree. But there are just many variables, especially traveling between places, train timings, adjusting for sunrise, opening times, etc.

That’s why I advise you to be flexible with your travel plans and use the information here as a rough guide.

For example, you will be in Cemoro Lawang right after sunrise on Mount Bromo. You want to go back to Probolinggo and take the train towards Banyuwangi, then do a sunrise tour to Kawah Ijen. So depending on how tired you are, you might need an extra day in Banyuwangi just to recover and make the timing work.

There are daily trains from Probolinggo to Banyuwangi at 00:39, 01:57, 08:01, 16:01, and 19:17. All of them taking roughly 4 hours, with the cheapest being the Probowangi train at 08:01.

Day 14: Kawah Ijen

Your last stop on Java is on its eastern tip close to the otherwise uneventful town of Banyuwangi. There stands Kawah Ijen, a mesmerizing volcanic wonder, known for its ethereal blue flames and the world’s largest acidic lake.

This geological marvel is famous for its unique phenomenon of burning sulfuric gases, creating an otherworldly scene at night. I mean, BLUE FLAMES! Have you ever seen BLUE FLAMES? Incredible!

The hike up usually starts in the dark hours before dawn and takes around 90 minutes to reach the crater.

Due to being a very active volcano, it is often closed, or the rules for visiting changed. I do my best to keep up to date with the requirements and restrictions on visiting Kawah Ijen in this detailed guide about Kawah Ijen.

Ferry to Bali

A natural continuation of this Java backpacking itinerary is to hop over to Bali. Make your way to the port of Ketapang (buses, taxis, and even the train connect it to Banyuwangi) and take the ferry over to Gilimanuk in Bali.

The ferries run every 30 minutes and cost 6500 IDR (0.45$).

From Gilimanuk, there are regular shuttles, tourist buses, and minibuses to Lovina or Denpasar.

Read my just-slightly-biased comparison between Bali and Java.

Transport on Java

You will notice I recommend traveling in Java by train a lot more often than by bus. Train travel on Java is easy, convenient, cheap, relatively quick, and in most sections very scenic – all characteristics that the bus journeys don’t have.

In this article about the train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, you can find more general information about Java’s trains.

Almost all trains on Java can be found on the KAI Access website. It is not the most user-friendly website, but it does the job. I say almost all because certain local commuter trains (for example Yogyakarta to Surakarta) aren’t listed there.

You can book and pay for the tickets online at the KAI Access website. At the train station, all you need to do is use the number or QR code from the reservation to print your ticket at the self-service kiosks. There is always staff there to help if you get confused.

Other Notable Places not Included in the Itinerary

Java is quite big. Of course, backpacking in Java for 14 days is not enough to cover every single amazing place.

Here’s a short list of the most notable I’ve not included in the itinerary. From west to east:

• Ujung Kulon National Park: The fourth UNESCO heritage site on Java that I haven’t included in this itinerary because it’s a bit off-path as it’s on the extreme western tip of the island.
• Old Banten: The remnants of the historic port city of Banten include the mighty Banten Lama Fortress and Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin’s tomb.
• Cirebon: A coastal city with a mix of Javanese and Sundanese culture, featuring the Kasepuhan Palace and Sunyaragi Cave.
• Pangandaran: a coastal paradise on Java’s southern shore. Pristine beaches, lush landscapes, pretty sunsets, and surfing opportunities. Who said Java doesn’t have nice beaches?
• Mount Merbabu: A dormant volcano known for its scenic trekking routes and panoramic views; Awesome sunrise. Hiking starts in the village of Selo.
• Karimunjawa Islands: A tropical paradise off the north coast of Java with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Reach it by ferry from Jepara (1h from Semarang).
• Mount Semeru: Java’s highest peak, an active and majestically beautiful stratovolcano. The trek is arduous and not for the unfit.
• Savana Bekol: Part of Alas Purwo National Park (extreme east tip of Java), it features savannah landscapes and wild animals.

This Java Itinerary is FOR YOU!

There’s so much more information I can include here. Please excuse me if I didn’t entirely answer your questions about backpacking in Java.

I tried to create an evergreen resource for all backpackers coming to the wonderful country of Indonesia and its main island of Java.

If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out via the comments below, my Instagram, or Facebook. Now off you go!