Sunrise, a Merapi jeep and Prambanan

About this experience

Twelve hours, a group of 10 at most, and three very different sights. The default sunrise is on Setumbu Hill; an option moves it onto the temple itself, with breakfast. Then you enter Borobudur as the gates open for a climb with a local guide. One guest mentions a 3 a.m. departure, so plan for an early night.

The middle of the day belongs to the volcano. A jeep runs you onto Merapi's lower slopes with photo stops, through the landscape left by its eruptions. Merapi has been on alert level III (Siaga) since November 2020, so the summit is closed and jeep routes stay outside the hazard zones; trips can be suspended when activity rises. Lunch at a restaurant follows, then Prambanan.

Know the money side before you go. Setumbu entry, the Merapi jeep, climb-up access, lunch, parking and the driver's tip are included. The Borobudur and Prambanan entry fees are not: the listing says you pay them in cash on the day, and the amount is higher on the temple-sunrise option. Same company as the hill-or-temple tour, which includes entry but skips the volcano.

• Sunrise on Setumbu Hill, or on the temple as an option
• Borobudur climb with a local guide
• Jeep ride on the slopes of Mount Merapi
• Lunch at a restaurant included
• Prambanan in the afternoon
• Group of 10 people at most

How the day runs

1. Small hoursHotel pickup

   Collection in Yogyakarta; one guest mentions a 3 a.m. departure.

2. SunriseSetumbu Hill or the temple

   The hill by default, the temple top with breakfast if you chose that option.

3. MorningClimb Borobudur

   In as the gates open, up to the top terraces with a local guide.

4. Late morningMerapi by jeep

   Onto the volcano's slopes with photo stops along the way.

5. MiddayLunch

   At a restaurant, included in the listing.

6. AfternoonPrambanan, then home

   The Hindu temple compound, then back to your hotel at the end of a 12-hour day.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Withdraw cash the day before: the Borobudur and Prambanan entry fees are paid in cash on the day.
• Wear clothes that work for a dusty jeep and a temple: covered shoulders and knees, closed shoes.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat for Prambanan in the afternoon.
• Merapi's status changes. Check for alerts the day before; jeep trips can be suspended.
• Our guide to both temples in one day helps you decide if you want the volcano in the middle.

Read next:

• With Prambanan
• Tickets explained
• Best time to go

Frequently asked questions

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