East Java, Indonesia 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Surabaya

Arrive at Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya from Balikpapan (BPN) with a morning flight.

Collect your luggage and meet your pre-arranged driver or head to your accommodation.

Upon arrival, consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek, or pre-book an airport transfer for convenience.

Hotel Check-in & Refresh

Check into your hotel in Surabaya.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your morning flight.

We'll suggest a suitable hotel for your stay in Surabaya upon final confirmation.

Local Surabaya Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Surabaya lunch.

Famous dishes include Rawon (black beef soup), Lontong Balap (rice cake with bean sprouts and lentho), or Soto Ayam (chicken soup).

Ask your hotel for recommendations on popular local eateries near your accommodation.

Submarine Monument

Visit the Monumen Kapal Selam, a real Russian submarine that has been converted into a museum.

Explore its interior and learn about its history.

A unique attraction offering insight into naval history.

Evening Dinner

Dine at a restaurant offering a variety of Indonesian and international cuisine.

Enjoy the lively evening atmosphere of Surabaya.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before starting your journey to the Mount Bromo area.

Drive to Bromo Area

Begin your scenic drive from Surabaya towards the Mount Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park area.

This journey will take approximately 3-4 hours.

Lunch Stop in Probolinggo

Make a stop in Probolinggo for lunch.

This town is a common gateway to Bromo and offers various local eateries.

Try some local specialties before continuing your journey uphill.

Continue to Bromo Hotel

Continue your ascent towards the village near Mount Bromo (e.

g., Cemoro Lawang or Tosari). The landscape will become more mountainous and picturesque.

Check into Plataran Bromo

Check into the luxurious Plataran Bromo hotel, nestled on the highlands with sublime views.

Settle in and prepare for tomorrow's early morning adventure.

Take time to relax and acclimate to the cooler mountain air. The hotel offers great views and facilities.

Leisure & Acclimatization

Enjoy free time at the hotel, take in the serene surroundings, or simply relax in preparation for the early morning trek to see the Bromo sunrise.

The altitude can be cool, so make sure to have warm clothing ready for tomorrow.

Dinner at Plataran Bromo

Have dinner at the hotel's restaurant, enjoying the mountain ambiance and a restful evening.

Bromo Sunrise Jeep Trip

Embark on an iconic jeep tour to Penanjakan viewpoint for a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and Mount Semeru.

This is a cold morning, so dress warmly!

Jeep will pick you up from your hotel. Expect large crowds, especially during peak season. Bring a flashlight and warm layers.

Trek to Bromo Crater

After sunrise, the jeep will take you to the 'Sea of Sand' (Pasir Berbisik).

From there, you can trek or ride a horse to the base of Bromo, then climb the stairs to view the active crater.

The climb is dusty and requires moderate fitness. Wear comfortable walking shoes and consider a face mask for dust.

Return to Hotel & Breakfast

Return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and some time to pack and refresh.

Drive to Banyuwangi (Part 1)

Begin the long but scenic drive from the Bromo area towards Banyuwangi, the easternmost tip of Java.

This is a significant travel day.

Lunch Stop in Jember

Break the journey with lunch in Jember, a city known for its tobacco plantations and culinary delights.

Find a local restaurant to refuel.

Jember has many options for local food. Your driver can suggest a good spot.

Continue to Banyuwangi (Part 2)

Resume your journey towards Banyuwangi.

Enjoy the changing scenery as you head closer to the coast.

Check into Bangsring Breeze

Arrive and check into Bangsring Breeze in Banyuwangi, a comfortable resort with views overlooking Bali.

Settle in for your stay in Banyuwangi.

This resort is a great base for exploring Kawah Ijen and the marine parks.

Dinner & Early Night

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant in Banyuwangi.

Get an early night's rest to prepare for tomorrow's early start for Ijen.

Kawah Ijen Blue Fire Trek

Start your journey in the early hours to Mount Ijen.

Hike up to the crater rim to witness the famous 'blue fire' phenomena (if conditions allow) and the stunning turquoise acid lake at sunrise.

This requires a very early start and a moderate-to-challenging hike. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a headlamp, and warm clothing. Gas masks are usually provided by guides for safety from sulfur fumes. Booking through a local tour operator is highly recommended.

Return to Hotel & Breakfast

Return to your hotel after the Ijen trek for a late breakfast and some much-needed rest.

Morning Leisure & Rest

Enjoy a leisurely morning to rest and recover from the demanding Kawah Ijen trek.

You can relax by the pool or enjoy the hotel facilities.

Lunch in Banyuwangi

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Banyuwangi.

Explore some of the town's culinary offerings.

Explore De Djawatan

Visit De Djawatan, a magical forest reminiscent of 'The Lord of the Rings' with ancient trembesi trees.

It's a popular spot for photography and enjoying nature.

A tranquil and visually stunning natural attraction, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Relaxing Dinner

Enjoy a quiet dinner, perhaps at the hotel or a local warung, after your busy day.

Reflect on your Ijen experience.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore Baluran National Park.

Travel to Baluran National Park

Drive north to Taman Nasional Baluran, often dubbed 'Africa of Java' for its savannah landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The drive takes about 1-1.5 hours.

Baluran National Park Safari

Explore the park's savannah, mangrove forests, and beaches.

Look out for wild animals like Javanese buffalo (Banteng), deer, peacocks, and various bird species. Visit Bama Beach within the park.

Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection. Consider renting a local vehicle or hiring a guide within the park for better wildlife spotting.

Picnic Lunch / Cafe

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature in Baluran National Park or grab a bite at a simple cafe near the park entrance.

Return to Banyuwangi

Drive back to your hotel in Banyuwangi for some rest and preparation for the evening.

Christmas Eve Dinner

Enjoy a special Christmas Eve dinner.

Many hotels or local restaurants may offer festive menus or a pleasant dining experience.

While Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, larger hotels may have special offerings for Christmas Eve.

Pulau Menjangan Snorkeling Trip

Embark on a full-day snorkeling and island hopping trip to Menjangan Island, part of West Bali National Park.

Enjoy crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. This usually includes a boat ride, snorkeling gear, and lunch.

Menjangan Island is renowned for its incredible underwater beauty. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear. Booking with a local tour operator in Banyuwangi is recommended. You might pass by Tabuhan Island.

Explore De Djawatan

Visit De Djawatan Forest, often called 'Lord of the Rings' forest, known for its majestic, ancient trembesi trees with sprawling roots.

It's a fantastic spot for photography and a peaceful stroll.

The forest is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon light. Admission fee is usually minimal.

Dinner in Banyuwangi

Enjoy a delicious local dinner at a restaurant in Banyuwangi.

Try some authentic East Javanese dishes.

Ask your driver or hotel for recommendations for fresh seafood or local specialties.

Kawah Ijen Blue Flame Trek

Begin a thrilling pre-dawn trek to Kawah Ijen crater.

Witness the mesmerizing blue flames (if conditions allow) and the stunning turquoise acidic lake at sunrise. A truly unique natural phenomenon.

This trek is moderately challenging. Wear warm layers, sturdy hiking shoes, and bring a headlamp. Gas masks are usually provided by guides. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g317103-d447076-Reviews-Ijen_Crater_Indonesia-Banyuwangi_East_Java_Java.html?m=66827

Post-Hike Breakfast

Enjoy a well-deserved breakfast after your Ijen trek, either at your accommodation or a local eatery.

Recharge with some local delights before your journey.

Scenic Drive to Malang

Embark on a long but scenic drive from Banyuwangi to Malang/Prigen.

This journey offers views of rural Java, coastal roads, and agricultural landscapes. Make a comfort/lunch stop along the way.

The drive is approximately 6-8 hours depending on traffic and stops. Consider hiring a private driver for comfort. A stop for lunch in Probolinggo or Pasuruan is recommended.

Check-in Shanaya Resort

Arrive and check into your accommodation near Malang, Shanaya Resort, a comfortable retreat after a long day.

Rest and relax before dinner.

Dinner in Malang

Enjoy dinner at the resort or explore local dining options in Malang, known for its cooler climate and diverse cuisine.

Malang has a good variety of food, from traditional Indonesian to modern cafes.

Taman Safari Indonesia II

Spend a captivating day at Taman Safari Indonesia II in Prigen, Pasuruan.

Enjoy a safari journey to see various animals roaming freely, animal shows, and other recreational facilities.

This is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking. Grab lunch inside the park.

Travel to Surabaya

After a fun day at the safari, take a private transfer from Prigen to Surabaya.

This is a relatively short and comfortable drive.

The drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic. You can arrange this with your driver from the previous day or a local taxi service.

Check-in Surabaya Hotel

Check into your hotel in Surabaya, ready for your final evening in East Java.

Choose a hotel conveniently located for dinner and airport access.

Farewell Dinner in Surabaya

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Surabaya, perhaps indulging in some renowned local cuisine like Rujak Cingur or Rawon.

Surabaya offers a vast array of culinary experiences. Explore local street food or a reputable restaurant.

Leisure & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Surabaya.

You can do some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot before heading to the airport.

Consider visiting a local market or a shopping mall for souvenirs like batik or local snacks.

Last Indonesian Lunch

Savor one final Indonesian meal in Surabaya before your departure.

A quick and delicious meal before heading to the airport.

Transfer to Airport

Transfer to Juanda International Airport (SUB) for your afternoon flight back to Balikpapan.

Allow ample time for traffic and check-in procedures. You can arrange a taxi or use a ride-hailing app. EastJavaDriver or Koen's Travel Indonesia can provide this service.