Compare Cycling Indonesia's Islands by Exodus Travels vs Wild Borneo by Audley Travel
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 13 days | 18 days |
| Price From | $ 3,420 | $ 5,501 |
| Price Per Day | $ 263 | $ 306 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Private guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | No | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | There are 12 breakfasts, 10 lunches and three dinners included. Indonesian cuisine is generally fairly simple, with rice as the main staple, though noodles are also common, accompanied by dishes enlivened with ingredients such as cloves, chilies, coconut and lemongrass. Fish is popular but other meats are also common. Peanut-based dishes are also common on Indonesian tables (if you have a peanut allergy, make sure to inform us beforehand and to inform your tour leader). Food is often spicy but you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Western food is available in Ubud and Canggu, though it is well worth trying the local cuisine. Quite often, tea or water is drunk with a meal. Beer is often not cold and coffee is unfiltered and usually very sugary. On some days, we have a packed lunch as we cycle. Vegetarian food is available in Indonesia; however, the concept of vegetarianism can be misunderstood, so if you are vegetarian please be clear and state you don’t eat meat, chicken or fish. Please advise at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements. Snacks and local fruit are provided when cycling but you may want to bring your own snacks from home too. | N/A |
| Description |
Active volcanoes tower over paddies and coffee plantations. Jungles fringe tropical beaches on the edge of coral-rich waters. Villages and temples dot the landscape where age-old traditions are still followed. This is the backdrop through which we cycle up to craters and down to fishing villages, along paved roads and rainforest trails. On two wheels, we explore quieter parts of the islands of Bali and Java, uncovering a patchwork of sights, sounds and smells.Cycle through rural Bali and eastern Java on roads and dirt tracks |
Rich equatorial rainforest, wild orangutan and the Kinabatangan River... On a tailor-made holiday to Borneo with Audley, you’ll see the highlights — and much more — your way. We’ll design your ideal trip with you, paying close attention to your interests, your travel style and your budget. Our Borneo specialists know the country inside out and can lead you to experiences you won’t find in a guidebook. Savour sunrise atop Mount Kinabalu, the island’s highest peak. Be a guest of the Iban tribe with a night in a traditional longhouse. Trek beneath some of the world’s tallest trees, while a symphony of insects click and hum in the background. Leave a positive impact on the island by seeking out its rare leopards and proboscis monkeys responsibly. Snorkel around offshore islands and relax on a stretch of powder-soft sand. |
Day 1 Start Ubud
You can arrive at any time today. The bustling town of Ubud is the cultural heartland of Bali, set among the hills and paddies of the island interior. This afternoon, we have time to relax and explore the temples, shops and cafes in town, though we will go through the bike fitting to make sure all is in order before we start riding tomorrow. There is a briefing this evening with your leader about the trip. Accommodation: Sri Ratih Cottages/Ananda Cottages/Adiwana Svarga Loka Resort (or similar)
Day 2 Cycle through paddies, villages and temples
We have our first ride today as we explore the area north of Ubud, across rice fields, villages and temples. After arriving to the Tampaksiring village area, we explore Tirta Empul, a temple where Balinese come to bathe in sacred waters at least once a year in a cleansing ritual dedicated to Vishnu. The final leg takes us along backroads to the lesser known temple of Pengukur-Ukur, where we can enjoy a refreshment before returning to Ubud. Accommodation: Sri Ratih Cottages/Ananda Cottages (or similar)
Day 3 Cycle to Batur volcano; afternoon mountain bike descent
Starting with a ride along rice terraces, we continue by slowly climbing up the road to the Kintamani plantations area and beyond to the crater rim of Batur volcano. This is a tough climb so, after about 12.5mi (20km), we regroup for an extra briefing about the steep climb. If the steep climb is too challenging, this is a good place to jump in the support vehicle, which can take you up to the restaurant where we have lunch. Weather permitting, we get stunning views of one of the bigger volcanic lakes in Bali. After lunch, we have a short, sharp descent to the base of the volcano where our hotel is located. You then have the option to relax at the hotel or spend the afternoon off-road cycling on narrow, sandy trails. The final part of the trail crosses a lava field and there is ample opportunity to get up close to the volcano and the otherworldly moonscapes it has created. Accommodation: Segara Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 Ride to Ponjok Batu Temple and Lovina coast
After a short transfer to the western rim of Batur caldera, we start cycling up and down hills along small roads, crossing villages and plantations towards the northwest coast of Bali. As we cycle through the villages of Bondalem, Tianyar and Kubu, we observe the everyday life of local people. We enjoy a refreshment on the beach before continuing along flat roads to Ponjok Batu, an ocean-facing temple complex built of black stone. Finally, we pass through Singaraja town before reaching our destination in Lovina. From here, it’s a short transfer to our hotel in Bedugul. Accommodation: Strawberry Hill Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 A day of cycling, monkey forests, twin lakes, Buddhist monasteries and hot springs
Our day starts with a short ride up to Monkey Forest (it is possible to take a transfer to the top of the hill). From here, we enjoy a view of a twin lake before continuing downhill for the rest of the day with stunning views across the north coast. We visit the only Buddhist monastery in Bali, Bhrama Arama Vihara, and the nearby Banjar Hot Springs, where we can relax in the open-air pools. After lunch, we cycle along the coast to our beachfront hotel in Pemuteran. The rest of the day is free. Accommodation: Adi Assri Beach Cottage (or similar)
Day 6 Pedal to the harbour; snorkel around Menjangan Island; transfer to Java
After an optional cycle or short transfer to Labuan Luang harbour, we board a local boat and head for Menjangan Island. Meaning Deer Island, Pulau Menjangan is within the marine reserve of Bali Barat National Park and is renowned for its coral gardens and tropical fish. There is the opportunity to go snorkelling as well as the option to go diving (at an extra cost). After lunch, we can freshen up before transferring to Gilimanuk Harbour, where we catch the ferry to Ketapang Harbour in Java. From here, it’s about a three-hour drive to Bondowoso. Accommodation: Ijen View Hotel (or similar)
Day 7 Cycle up the slopes of Ijen volcano; optional sunset hike
Today is the most challenging day as we cycle up the slopes of Ijen volcano, gaining around 4,920ft (1,500m) in elevation. Our route starts gently along flat road until we reach the base of the volcano and start climbing through coffee plantations along some steep sections on partially broken paved roads. We take our time on this climb, enjoying the scenery, and have a light lunch en route. We regroup after about 12.5mi (20km) before the steepest part of the climb. Those who feel this next section may be too strenuous may want to jump in the support vehicle as it is definitely harder than normal for an Activity Level 3 (Moderate) graded trip. Of course, it is possible to attempt the climb and still join the support vehicle further up if needed. The support vehicle is available at any time if the cycling becomes too strenuous. On the way, we stop to visit one of the largest coffee plantations in Indonesia before ending our ride in the remote village of Jampit Catimor. Here, we spend the night in a local homestay with basic amenities within a colonial building on a coffee plantation. Accommodation: Jampit Catimor homestay
Day 8 Early morning trek to the crater rim; later cycle off the volcano to Ketapang
Getting up very early, while it is still dark, we trek to the top of Ijen crater along a wide, packed dirt path that’s 1.9mi (3km) long. At the top is a large crater lake surrounded by sulphur mines and, as we hike in the dark, we should be able to see blue fire created by the hot sulphur seeping out of the crater. After sunrise, we have time to enjoy views of the lake, which is 655ft (200m) deep and filled with steaming, acidic water. We should also witness local miners as they collect and carry sulphur blocks weighing up to 155lb (70kg) out of the crater. Please note that poor trail conditions and toxic fumes means it is too dangerous to climb down into the crater. After returning to camp, we get back on the bikes and ride down to our hotel in Ketapang in time for lunch. The afternoon is free to relax after the very early start this morning. Accommodation: Ketapang Indah Hotel (or similar)
Day 9 Cycle through jungle and plantations to the fishing village at Meru Betiri National Park
Following a transfer to the start of today’s bike ride, we get on the saddle and head into the jungle. Our rainforest trail is about 6mi (10km) long and eventually gives way to a paved/broken surface through coffee, cacao and rubber plantations. We continue to Rajegwesi Beach, the gateway to Meru Betiri National Park and a fishing village, where we can see the day’s catch being unloaded. We camp on the beach tonight. Camping equipment (tents, mats, sleeping bags) is included and there is a basic block with toilets and cold showers. Accommodation: Camping
Day 10 Ride along jungle trails to the beach at Pulau Merah; free time to relax on the beach; transfer to Ketapang
On our final day of cycling, we continue along jungle trails following the coast towards Pulau Merah. We visit Green Bay along the way, with views of another hidden beach in East Java. Today’s final ride is mostly on flat elevation with a few rolling hills. We should arrive at Pulau Merah around lunch time, where the early afternoon is free to explore the village, go for a swim or just relax before transferring (approximately two hours) to our hotel in Ketapang, where we spend our last night on Java. Accommodation: Ketapang Indah Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 Transfer by ferry and bus back to Bali to Canggu
After a relaxed start to the morning, we drive for 15 minutes back to Ketapang Harbour in time for our ferry (30-45 minutes) to Gilimanuk on Bali. From here, it is about a four-hour drive (with a lunch stop) to Canggu where we spend the next two nights. Accommodation: Grand Balisani Suites (or similar)
Day 12 Free day to relax on the beach or explore the area around Canggu and Seminyak
Canggu is a popular stretch of beach along the south coast of Bali and a great place to relax after 10 days of cycling up and down volcanoes and through jungles and plantations. The day is free to relax or explore the area around Canggu and Seminyak, take part in optional activities or go out on the water. Accommodation: Grand Balisani Suites (or similar)
Day 13 End Canggu
The trip ends this morning after breakfast and we begin our return journeys home. If you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to your sales representative about joining our post-trip Gili extension, where white sands and turquoise seas provide the perfect place to relax after a fun-filled cycling adventure.
Day 1 : International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Kuching.
Day 2 : Kuching
Arriving into Kuching you will be met and taken to your hotel, with the rest of the day to relax after your flight.You might like to take a walk along this waterfront this evening, lined with street-food stalls selling a number of local delicacies.
Day 3 : Kuching
Get a taste of Kuching with a city walking tour with your guide learning about the history of the White Rajah's and the influence they had on Sarawak.Afternoon free to explore at your leisure. The main bazaar is a good spot for locally made handicrafts.
Day 4 : Kuching
Today you're met by your driver and guide and driven to Bako National Park Headquarters where you will journey by boat to the National Park itself. Bako has a well maintained network of trails from easy forest walks to more difficult treks so you can really get the most from your time here. Bako is a great place to spot wildlife and one of the only places in Sarawak where you can see the endemic proboscis monkey as well as various species of rare pitcher plants.
Day 5 : Kampong Melano
You will be met by your driver and guide after breakfast and taken west towards the little fishing town of Semantan.Here you will be met by a member of the Melano community to begin your boat journey up the coast.On arrival, meet your host family and spend the afternoon exploring this isolated Malay community and learning about their traditional way of life.
Day 6 : Kampong Melano
Today walk from the village, along the coast and into the rainforest of Tanjung Datu National Park. This is the smallest national park in Sarawak but by far one of the most beautiful with some fantastic wildlife watching opportunities. The walk is quite tough and the trail rarely used so it is quite an adventure before you have even registered at the park headquarters! You will spend the rest of the day exploring and return to the community by boat this afternoon.Don't forget to take your swimming stuff as the trail end on a golden sand beach.
Day 7 : Kuching
Say goodbye to your host family today and make your way back to Semantan by boat and then to Kuching by car.There may be opportunities to stop en route, if the rafflesia is flowering in Gunung Gading National Park perhaps or if you get back in time for the afternoon feeding session at Semenggok Sanctuary. Speak to your guide about these options (any additional entry fees will be at your own cost).
Day 8 : Kota Kinabalu
Fly to Kota Kinabalu today for two days to explore the capital of Sabah.This afternoon you might like to visit one of Kota Kinabalu's museums - the Sabah Museum and Museum of Islamic Civilisation are particularly interesting.
Day 9 : Kota Kinabalu
You have today at leisure to explore and walk around this little city.Mid afternoon you will be collected and taken on a walking tour of the few remaining historical buildings and then along to the waterfront where a number of markets set up for the evening, with the chance to enjoy some lovely food as you stroll along.
Day 10 : Maliau Basin
This morning you will be collected early to begin your drive across the Crocker Range and towards Maliau Conservation Area. There will be opportunities to stop en route for last minute supplies before you head into the rainforest.On arrival you will register at the park HQ and head back to your camp and have a night walk this evening (first and last day schedule subject to change depending on journey times).
Day 11 : Maliau Basin
You are up early today to begin your trek to Nepenthes Camp. This is probably the toughest part of the full trek as the first few hours you are climbing up to the rim of the basin. This afternoon you can head out to Takob Akob and/or Giluk Falls for another trek and a swim.
Day 12 : Maliau Basin
Today you have a variety of terrain as you trek to Genting Camp. Midway you will detour down into the basin towards the magnificent Maliau Falls where you can picnic and swim.The climb back up is hard work but Genting is one of the nicer camps and you have the evening free.
Day 13 : Maliau Basin
Your final day today is about 9km walking but it is the least strenuous of your time as you make your way slowly down (a few steep bits!) and back towards Agathis Camp for your final night.You may head out on a night drive or walk this evening (depending on what you did on your first night).
Day 14 : Gaya Island
Today you will leave the Maliau Basin behind and begin the long drive back to Kota Kinabalu (likely to be about 5 hours).Here you will transfer to Gaya Island for a well earned rest, with 3 nights on this gorgeous tropical island.
Day 15 : Gaya Island
Today is free to relax, or explore Gaya Island. Enjoy a book by the hotel pool or try the spa's extensive facilities.The hotel is surrounded by thick forest and you can join a daily guided walk along the trails,
Day 16 : Gaya Island
A final day at leisure on Gaya Island today. The waters surrounding the island are full of flourishing coral gardens and vibrant fish - it's worth joining a small group snorkeling excursion run by the resort to find the best spots.
Day 17 : International return flight
You will transfer to the mainland and on to the airport this afternoon for your flight home.
Day 18 : International return flight
Arrive home today to complete your journey.
