ibby & finda

Mount Bromo

An active volcano in the Tengger massif. Watch the sunrise over the sea of sand from the viewpoint, then trek across the caldera to peer into the smoking crater. Leave at 2 AM, back by early afternoon. Not for the sleep-in crowd.

Batu

East Java's hill station at 700m elevation. Apple orchards, hot springs, Jatim Park theme park, and cool mountain air. Great with kids who need to burn off energy after sitting through a wedding reception.

Malang

Colonial-era city with a rich cultural heritage. Jodipan Rainbow Village, the temples of Singosari, and art-deco architecture in the old town. Great food scene too.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Known as the "Niagara of Indonesia". A 120-metre curtain of water cascading down a semi-circular cliff. The hike down to the base is steep but worth it. Leave early, back by late afternoon.

Bali

Already in the neighbourhood? Bali is a short hop from Surabaya. Flights run frequently from Juanda to Denpasar. Beaches, temples, rice paddies, decent restaurants. Budget airlines start from around Rp 400,000 each way.

Surabaya City

Indonesia's second city has more going on than most people expect. Visit the Submarine Monument, which is exactly what it sounds like, walk through the grand Al-Akbar Mosque, one of the largest in Indonesia, and hunt down the city's legendary street food. The rujak cingur is the one to try.

Komodo Island

Home to the Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard. Fly to Labuan Bajo and join a boat tour to see these creatures in the wild, snorkel in clear water, and hike Padar Island for one of the most photographed views in Southeast Asia.

P.S. Don't worry 🦎

Ijen Crater

A volcanic crater famous for its electric blue flames and the largest highly acidic crater lake on Earth. The pre-dawn trek rewards you with views of sulfur miners at work and a turquoise lake that looks photoshopped but isn't. Bring a mask — the sulfur fumes are no joke.