Famous for its relaxing and spiritual surroundings Bali is usually the first city that comes to mind when people think of Indonesia. However there are so many places to see and things to do in Indonesia that you could spend a lifetime discovering them all. One of these undiscovered wonders is Yogyakarta. The diverse culture and historical presence in this beautiful city is simply the tip of the ice burg for this wonderful part of the world. Here are five day trips that will make your trip the trip of a lifetime.
Timang Beach Cable Cart
This gorgeous beach is filled with coral stone and cliffs creating the most spectacular white caps and ocean views around. If the views and atmosphere aren’t enough for you, then flip on your adrenaline switch and take a ride on the “Cable Cart” to Watu Panjang Island. This adventure is not for the faint of heart as you cross over crashing waves and rocky cliffs in a tied together wooden pull cart that is attached to fabric rope “cables” by pulleys. These carts were originally established for the local lobster fishermen, and you can still pick up some lobster on the island. You are sure never to forget this experience. Take a picnic lunch and make it a day.
Kalibiru National Park
You’ll need a car to get to this destination as it is located approximately 2 hours west of the city, but once you get there you’ll never want to leave. As the temperatures drop so do the noises and distractions of city life. This excursion is not for those who are afraid of heights, as you will take rope bridges across expansive canyons to reach the top of the mountain, but you won’t regret the trip. The views are like being on top of the world and worth every hair raising moment of the hike. And as if that is not enough, your “flying fox” zip line trip ends on a tree platform that looks out over Lake Sermo.
Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo Sand Dunes
For those who prefer a drier environment to the rainforest, there are the Sand Dunes. Calm winds carve geometric lines into the white sand making it one of the largest Zen Gardens you’ll find. Try your hand at sand boarding, and then sit back with your feet in the sand and enjoy one of the amazing sunsets. Once you’ve had your fill of sand head over to the Queen of the South Resort infinity pool for a relaxing dip.
Luweng Sampang
Take in the mesmerizing views of thousands of years of natural water sculpting as you enjoy splashing in the cool water that comes straight from Sewu Mountain. For the adventurer there are hidden tunnels and chambers to explore that have been shrouded behind the “Eternal Curtain of Water” for centuries. Surprisingly this oasis has no entrance fee so take advantage of this serene location while you can.
Goa Pindul Lay River Tuning
Better than any water park this natural river tubing experience takes you through underground caves that were carved over hundreds of years of water movement and only visible from the water. Some of the other attractions are the colorful lime stone walls, the world’s fourth largest stalactite, and jumping from a six-meter tree trunk to land in a natural lagoon.
When planning your Indonesian adventure to Yogyakarta check out the Ameera Boutique Hotel through Traveloka. This beautiful hotel provides all of the comforts of home, without interfering with the cultural and esthetic aspects of your submersion trip.