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Tana Toraja, Mount Bromo & Ijen

Tana Toraja trekking, Spice Islands exploration and active volcano tour of Mount Bromo and Ijen.

Overview

From the spellbinding scenery and compelling culture of Tana Toraja, to the history and breath-taking beauty of the Spice Islands, followed by an Indonesia volcano tour in Java, this exciting adventure combines exploration, trekking, cruising, water sports, the ascent of an active volcano, a local train ride, and a tour of the famous Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater.

Tana Toraja

Discover the culture, funeral traditions, and elaborate death rituals of Indonesia’s Toraja people. Enjoy Tana Toraja trekking, admire the ornately carved and painted houses with boat-shaped roofs, and enter ‘the village of the dead’, where the deceased are as much a part of the community as their living relatives. Visit the Londa burial cave with the tau-tau effigies, and marvel at an impressive burial cliff riddled with tombs at the hauntingly beautiful Lemo. See the baby graves at Kambira and gain an insight into a culture that believes the bodies and spirits of infants can be absorbed into a tree and will continue to grow with it. Trek to the royal family tombs at Suaya and the peaceful rice field setting of Tampangallo, which is squeezed between a maze of cliffs and jagged jungle-clad hills.

Cruise and exploration of the Spice Islands

The fabled Banda Islands are just about as far off the map of the modern world as we can get these days; experience the thrill of approaching by sea from Ambon aboard a luxurious teakwood cruiser. Hike to the crater of the steaming Gunung Api (fire mountain) volcano, snorkel over the lava flow and above a colorful reef, and feast aboard the boat on culinary delights. Explore Banda Neira Island on foot, meander around the bastions of the majestic Fort Belgica − built by the Dutch in 1611 in an attempt to gain a monopoly on the nutmeg trade − and discover the crumbling ruins of Fort Nassau.

Walk past the colonial houses, enter the neoclassical-style church and the evocatively empty governor’s palace. Barter for cloves, tamarind, cinnamon and, of course, nutmeg, at the traditional market, and relish a candlelit dinner and dance performance on the ramparts of Fort Belgica. Spend a day or two at play, participating in watersports, kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving, visit Hatta Island and the gorgeous Pulau Ai. Finally, wander through the nutmeg plantations on Pulau Run, an island which, during the 17th century, was the subject of one of the most spectacular deals in history, when the English traded it with the Dutch for the island of Manhattan. Yes, that Manhattan!

Bromo, Train to Banyuwangi, Ijen

Your active volcano tour Indonesia continues with a short hike to Argo Wulan from where you can watch the sunrise over the spectacular Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and its smoke-spewing volcanoes. Cross the desert-like sea of sand of the ancient caldera and later catch the sunset from the crater rim. Travel by local train to Banyuwangi and in the early morning follow the well-trod track to Ijen Crater, where a mysterious milky aquamarine lake, located at the core of a reserve that spans the slopes and summits of three volcanoes, is the site of a labor-intensive sulphur mining operation. Every day, an elite class of hardened men hump baskets of yellow rocks, weighing up to 200 pounds, from the lake’s edge up to the crater rim and then back down the side of the mountain. The 660-ft-deep lake is one of the most acidic lakes in the world.

This exciting adventure tour is perfect for active fun-loving families or groups of friends. This is just a sample itinerary; the featured excursions, cruise vessels, and accommodations can be tailored in accordance with your personal wishes. All excursions and transfers are on a private basis (private transport with private guide), with the exception of the cruise portion, which is typically done on a shared basis with other passengers unless you require a private charter.

Itinerary & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

14 Day - Tana Toraja, Mount Bromo & Ijen
itinerary map

Welcome to Sulawesi!

Upon arrival at Hasanuddin airport, you will be met by your guide and transfer to the hotel in downtown Makassar.

Take the remainder of the day to relax and rest before your upcoming adventure.

Meals: D

Location
Makassar
Day
1 / 14

Transfer to Northern Sulawesi

This morning you head out to the central highlands of the Sulawesi. Tana Toraja is a land of mysterious traditions, coffee plantations, and serene scenery. After breakfast transfer to the airport for the short flight to Palopo. Continue by car to Toraja, passing the magnificent tropical rainforest views.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Kete Kesu village, renowned for its woodcarving and traditional tongkonan houses and rice barns. See the cave and hanging graves nearby – the renowned tradition of Tana Toraja. Continue by visiting Suaya King’s tomb, then walk down to Tampangallo village with a cave filled with traditional coffins and bones.

Late in the afternoon check-in at the traditions-inspired hotel in the heart of Toraja. Dinner will be served at the Aras Cafe’.

Meals: B, L, D

Location
Tana Toraja
Day
2 / 14

Traditions and People of Toraja

A full day exploring Toraja. Be ready to discover the believes and traditions far from what you’ve ever known, and interact with warm and generous people every step you take.
Starting at Londa with the natural cave graves the deceased are still entombed – if we are lucky we can see the locals busy with the wood carving. Listen to your guide explain the meaning and techniques of this ancient craft.
Continue to Lemo to see the hanging graves and rows of “tau-tau” statues. Continue to visit the baby’s graves in the huge tree at Kambira. Proceed to Tampangallo with its natural caves.
Trek to the royal family tombs at Suaya located in the bamboo forest.

Meals: B, L, D

Location
Tana Toraja
Day
3 / 14

Market and Ancient Megaliths

After breakfast, another full-day excursion around Toraja. We will start with a walk at the Pasar Bolu – the impressive, lively market with livestock and agricultural produce. We can see the local farmers selling their coffee, cloves, cacao, nutmeg, and lots of other spices. Depending on the day of the week, there might also be a livestock section open, with the local farmers bringing the buffaloes and other animals for sale.

After the market exploration, we go up in the hills around Rantepao, to visit Pallawa Traditional Torajan construction, and continue to Batutumonga for some breathtaking views over Rantepao and the valley.
Batutumonga is ideal for a walk among the rice fields, observing the daily Torajan life.
Back to Rantepao for lunch at a local restaurant. Make sure to always have a cup of locally grown coffee at local restaurants!
Continue to Bori Kalimbuang – the ancient megalith stones and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit Art Shop in the center of Rantepao before returning to the hotel.

Meals: B

Location
Tana Toraja
Day
4 / 14

Flight to the heart of Spice Islands

Breakfast at the hotel, we depart for a scenic drive back to Palopo. Our last stop in Puncak Pass for the morning spectacular panorama of the dense tropical rainforest. Afterward, you will be transferred to the Bua Airport in Palopo to catch your flight to Makassar airport and onwards flight to Ambon.

Your local guide will pick you up from the airport. Stop by in the city center for lunch and a leisurely walk through the capital of the Spice Islands. Visiting the monuments and learn about the heroes and events of the past before heading to the resort for check in and the sunset on the beach.

Meals: B

Location
Ambon
Day
5 / 14

Welcome to Rascal

In the morning the Rascal team will meet you at the hotel and bring you to the boat.

Ambon is the capital of the Maluku Province; these islands were originally known as the Spice Islands due to the nutmeg, mace, and cloves that were exclusively found there, sparking colonial interest from Europe in the 16th century. Receive another warm welcome and introduction to the friendly crew before setting off to the local market for an introduction to the regional cuisine and its origins. Barter for spices and produce while sampling the local delights.

We then cruise to the first Spice Island, the volcanic Gunung Api.

Meals: B. L, D

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
6 / 14

Volcano Trekking and Snorkeling

Hike to the crater for a once-in-a-lifetime lookout over the Banda Islands; the view of the sulfur clouds escaping from this active 666-meter volcano is a staggering sight to behold.

After trekking, cool down with a snorkel along the beautiful reef, home to vivid purple and orange sea squirts, leatherback turtles, and sea snakes. Admire the north coast lava flows which are a sight to behold. Blue and pygmy blue whales can also be spotted in these waters.

Situated in the Spice Islands, the preparation and cooking of a local dish will be demonstrated – the first of a host of local dishes that Rascal offers on this culinary adventure.

Meals: B. L, D

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
7 / 14

Gunung Api and Food Explorations

Wake to the sound of birds living on the slopes of Gunung Api. After breakfast, explore the impressive colonial architecture including a visit to Fort Belgica, its historic church, and governor’s house.

Continue the adventure to Fort Nassau and the local market by trishaw. Rascal’s chef will help guests select and barter for the products that they’ll use to create lunch and dinner – pick up fresh nutmeg, sun-dried cinnamon quills, and local spice delicacies to create some unique Indonesian dishes. The day ends with a candlelit dinner on the ramparts of Fort Belgica, accompanied by a music and dance performance.

Meals: B. L, D

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
8 / 14

Water-sports Day

As we cruise out of the harbor, we see traditional longboats race visiting vessels – a most unusual sight. We then set off to Pulau Hatta to snorkel, dive, fish, kayak, and paddleboard, followed by guided walks and sunset drinks at Hatta Island.

We then enjoy an evening cruise back to the anchorage at Banda Neira. The chef invites you to the cooking demo of the local cuisine.

Meals: B. L, D

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
9 / 14

Small Spice Island

After a good night’s rest, we head off to Pulau Ai. This small island is surrounded by a pristine coral reef, perfect for diving or snorkeling.

The small village is home to a Dutch storehouse from the 1600s and the plantation has trees over 100 years old. Here we will go on a market tour with our chef to select yet more of the best local produce.

After pausing for some locally brewed ginger tea on the beach, we drop anchor for the night as the sun sets and enjoy a delicious culinary delight onboard.

Meals: B. L, D

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
10 / 14

Disembark and Transfer to Mount Bromo

On the final day, Rascal will set off to Pulau Run, an economic hub in the 17th century due to its abundant crops of nutmeg and mace.

One of the smallest islands of the Banda Islands, it is swathed in the jungle and by deep blue sea. We’ll explore the overgrown ruins, stopping by El Dorado for views of the horizon.

Setting sail for the last time, we’ll head back to Ambon. After you disembark, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Surabaya. We will pick you up at the arrivals hall in Surabaya for a 1.5 hrs drive to the Mount Bromo and your hotel.

Take a good rest tonight before the next big adventure tomorrow!

Meals: B

Location
Rascal cruise
Day
11 / 14

A Volcano at Dusk and Dawn

Today Wake up early, meet the guide at 3:00 for a 45 minutes 4WD jeep to visit Penanjakan Mountain take you to an hour’s walk to a hidden spot of Argo Wulan where there is possibly no one knows this place.
We will get to this spot just before sunrise. You will be provided with coffee, tea accompanied by boiled sweet potatoes or bananas.
Take 360 degrees spot where you can see Argopura Mountain from The Eastern side, a group of Mountains next to Bromo Crater, and Semeru Mountain as their background. You will be amazed by Semeru Mountain which is erupting every 30 minutes. Take in the amazing views of the mountains, yellow sunrise light, and spewing smoke from Mount Bromo.
Take a short adventure and pass through the green savannah of Teletubbies hill, crossing wide ocean sands of the caldera, Lion Lava Stone. Back to your hotel for breakfast (and possibly a nap).
Late in the afternoon, board on a 4WD jeep driving up to Penanjakan View Point to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Meals: B

Location
Bromo
Day
12 / 14

Train to the East

Check out after breakfast and transfer to Probolinggo Train Station to catch a train for Banyuwangi (we’ll carry your luggage by car). At Banyuwangi Train Station meet your driver and transfer to the hotel for a relaxed afternoon.

Meals: B

Location
Banyuwangi
Day
13 / 14

Breathtaking Crater and Return to Jakarta

Ijen’s crater is home to the largest crater-lake in Indonesia with its magical blue color. At 2,300 meters above sea level, this landscape was formed some 300,000 years ago by volcanic activity that left the area highly acidic. The combination of yellowish rocky surfaces and a mineral lake is best enjoyed around 7-9 am, while the blue fire caldera can only be witnessed in the very early hours of the morning.
This early morning, you will venture out to Ijen National Park to visit its iconic volcanic crater, Kawah Ijen. To view Ijen’s majestic turquoise sulfur lake, you must first ascend to the top of Mount Ijen, which will take over an hour of trekking.

By 4 WD jeep, drive through the rural villages, coffee and clove plantations, and then into one of Java’s last rainforests. Humidity, wildlife, giant ferns, and big trees cover the slope of the mountain. We arrive at the Park Ranger’s post and begin the 90-minute hike to Ijen Crater, along a shady track with spectacular views.

The stunning view is unveiled at 2883 meters altitude. The lake’s eerie color and smoke wafting from bright yellow sulfur deposits create the landscape desolate, barren, and vibrantly alive. Watching miners descend into the crater and re-emerge carrying up to 80 kilos of ore on bamboo baskets on the treacherous path.

Afterward back down to the ranger’s post and a drive to Banyupait Waterfall. Here’s something you don’t see every day: a waterfall of acid. Enjoy the greenish waters of the Banyu Pahit drain from the acid lake and groundwater of Kawah Ijen volcano. The waters are saturated with minerals such as gypsum and alum. Concentrated sulphuric acid is more viscous than normal water, causing the water to move more slowly than a typical creek.

Back to the hotel for lunch and check out and transfer to the airport for your flight to Jakarta and onwards, home.

Meals: B

Location
Ijen National Park
Day
14 / 14
1 / 14

Accommodations

Cruises & Lodges

Rascal boat sailing

Rebel & Rascal

Chic sister teakwood cruisers offering off-the-grid exploration and play on Indonesia's azure seas.
10 Guests
5 Cabins
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