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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: Medan
Arrival in Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra. You will be transferred to your hotel in Medan. Overnight in Medan.

Day 2: Medan - Bohorok
After a short city tour of Medan with a visit of the Maimoon palace, colonial post office and black domed Mesjid Raya (Grand Mosque) we depart to Bohorok/Bukit Lawang, where you will find the orang utan rehabilitation centre in Gunung Leuser National Park. Afternoon free program for tubing on the river. It is great and fun or simply relaxing along the river. Overnight in Bohorok.

Day 3: Bohorok
Today you will start with a trekking trip with a local guide in the National Park for 3 hours This is one of the largest national parks in the world, containing over 800,000 hectares of virgin rainforest. The park is home to the Orang Utans, gibbons, tigers, elephants and the last of the Sumatran rhino. You are likely to see Orang Utans, and perhaps Gibbons but tigers, elephants and rhino are very rare to be seen. At the beginning or at the end of the trekking you will visit the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center where formerly captive apes are re-introduced into the wild. Watch the feedings of them in their natural environment. In the afternoon there is free time to make walks in the area, relax on the veranda of your hotel or let yourself float by inner tube down the river. Overnight in Bohorok.

Day 4: Bohorok
Free at leisure in the morning, In the afternoon you will arrive in the cool and picturesque hill town Berastagi (1300m) the setting is dominated by the two volcanoes: Sinabung and Sibayak. Visit the local market where you will find lots of tropical fruits! Overnight in Bohorok.

Day 5: Bohorok - Berastagi - Lake Toba
Via the plantation route you follow your way to the island Samosir situated in the centre of Lake Toba, one of the largest and deepest lakes in Southeast Asia. Toba has developed into a full-featured highland resort while retaining the rustic charm and relaxed ambiance that define Toba's attraction. On the way you will stop at a Traditional Karo batak Village, Simalungun King’s Palace and the Si Piso Piso waterfall. In the afternoon you cross Lake Toba with the local ferry to Samosir. Your hotel is pleasantly situated along the lake. Overnight on Samosir Island.

Day 6: Lake Toba
IT is very pleasant to enjoy a day on Toba lake and make a boat trip to Tomok, Ambarita and Simanindo, where you will see traditional Batak houses, as well as graves and tombs in Tomok, stone chairs in Ambarita and traditional Batak dancing in Simanindo. Overnight by Lake Toba.

Day 7: Lake Toba - Medan
In the morning we cross the lake again and drive back to Medan. (travel time approximately 4 hours). Overnight in Medan.

Day 8: Medan - Jakarta - Yogyakarta
Today you will catch the flight to Yogyakarta via Jakarta, the cultural heart of Java. Upon arrival at Yogjakarta Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Yogjakarta.

Day 9: Yogyakarta
Many opportunities today; take a city tour with a cycle rickshaw (becak) to explore the Sultan's Palace which is located in the heart of old city. The huge palace of the Sultans of Yogyakarta is actually the centre of a small walled city within the city. Over 25,000 people live within the greater Kraton compound, which its own market, shops, batik and silver cottage industries, school and mosques. Then on to Sono-Budoyo Museum, the pick of Yogya's museums and go to the nearby water castle Taman Sari, a splendid pleasure park of palace, pools and waterways of the Sultan and his entourage to enjoy. In the evening you can attend a performance of the classic Ramayana dance and theatre. Overnight in Yogjakarta.

Day 10: Yogyakarta - Borobudur
After your Sumatra trip, you will have a free program this morning. Afternoon, visit to this awe-inspiring World Heritage Site of Borobudur. Built in the 8th century, this stunning artistic and architectural marvel lay undiscovered until 1815. You also will visit the nearby Pawon temple, which is in the middle of a typical village, and Mendut temple with its magnificent statue of the Buddha Sakyamuni. Overnight in Yogjakarta.

Day 11: Yogyakarta - Prambanan - Solo
Start your Java overland tour with a short distance to Solo. On the way, you will visit the famous Prambanan temples.You will check in at the hotel in Solo by midday. The afternoon you can visit the Sultan’s palace. Here a local guide will show you around. At walking distance from the Sultan’s palace there is the Batik Museum Danar Hadi. A guide will lead you to the 11 rooms with all kind of Batik. At the end and in the back of the museum you see about 200 people working in a big hall processing the batik textiles using different techniques. In the evening there are great dining opportunities in the city, or at the village centre around the Alun Alun. Each day there are Theatre performances of Wayang Orang in the Sriwedari theatre. Since the Indonesians know the story by heart they can follow it from any point during the performance.Overnight in Solo.

Day 12: Solo - Malang
You will continue your overland tour to Malang. You will arrive in the afternoon at the cool and old-colonial city of Malang. Overnight in Malang.

Day 13: Malang - Bromo
Morning is free to explore Malang town on your own. In the early afternoon, you travel via Probolinggo to the Gunung Bromo Volcano. Your hotel is in or nearby Cemoro Lawang, situated spectacularly on the edge of the Tengger crater. The ascent of the volcano is usually the highlight of every visit to Java. You can watch the sunset at spectacular Bromo. Overnight in Bromo.

Day 14: Bromo - Kalibaru
An early rise will ensure you have enough time for the jeep ride to the sunrise viewpoint up above. Cross the sea of sand' and climb 246 steps upwards to the cone of Mt Bromo, and in the morning light you will see flames and smoke rising from the crater; a fantastic view, made even better when the slowly rising sun reveals an amazing moon-like landscape. After this adventure you head back to your hotel for breakfast and continue to Kalibaru, where you stay the night in beautifully situated bungalows surrounded by coffee, cacao and rubber plantations. Overnight in Kalibaru.

Day 15: Kalibaru - Lovina
Drive along the north coast of East Java to Banyuwangi, Java’s east coast port. Here you’ll be fascinated by locals diving into the water off high construction poles to fetch the coins dropped into the water by passengers. A short boat trip with the local ferry will then bring you to Bali, the fabled Island of Gods and Demons. Overnight in Lovina.

Day 16: Lovina
A day with lots of options. If you want to see dolphins, prepare to get up early, and go out on the sea by small boat. Very often the dolphins will show you their jumping skills. Or for excellent snorkeling and diving head to Menjangan (Deer) island, part of the West Bali National Park. Or take a step back in time and visit the old Colonial houses or the only Buddhist temple there is on Bali. The warm springs of Banjar, finally, are also worth to visit. Overnight in Lovina.

Day 17: Lovina - Ubud
First you visit the Gitgit Waterfall and proceed onto Bratan Mountain Lake, which is situated at a height of 1240 meters. The Pura Ulun Danu temple in this lake is said to be home of the Danu goddess, who is responsible for the water distribution to Bali’s many rice terraces. Overnight in Ubud.

Day 18: Ubud
A wide range of optional excursions is possible for exploring Ubud and its surroundings. Interesting temples and palaces as the Elephant Cave, Tampak Siring or the famous Pura Besakih (the mother temple) and Kintamani are only a few of the interesting sights to visit. Trekkings around Ubud’s rice fields, white water rafting and spa treatments are also available. Interesting dance performances in former palaces or temple ceremonies are worth a visit, too! And last but not least, the many galleries in and around Ubud offer all handicrafts and arts. Overnight in Ubud.

Day 19: Ubud - Denpasar
Transfer to the airport for your departure from Denpasar.