Ubud is the cultural heartland of Bali and provides the perfect introduction to the magical Balinese way of life. A serene paradise of healing and relaxation, its abundance of ornate and aging temples, lush green rice paddies, and dense, wild jungles make Ubud the perfect location from which to embark on this 10-day-long journey of rejuvenation. For four nights, we will explore the surrounding area of Ubud through temple visits, cooking classes, and an immersion within the local community. From here, we will travel to Raja Ampat for the second half of our journey, which focuses on exploring the islands and discovering the many wonders of this diverse landscape through a selection of exciting, outdoor experiences. Translated to mean “Four Kings”, Raja Ampat captivates with the enigmatic beauty of its limestone karst island clusters. Spawned out of legendary myth, this setting continues to bewilder and enthrall explorers with dramatic landscapes that shelter secret lagoons, bays, and beaches. In between excursions to discover the world’s most biodiverse environments, Raja Ampat offers visitors the chance to discover or create their own perfect paradise.
After a private transfer from the airport (by road - Helicopter transfers available), you are greeted at your home for the next four nights - a picturesque estate nestled into the jungle and rice fields of Ubud, bordering the Ayung River. Take your time soaking in your surroundings and shake off the jetlag with an afternoon of massages and pampering. Tonight, our Balinese chef has prepared an authentic dinner to welcome us to beautiful Bali!
After our routine of yoga and fitness (optional, as always), enjoy the rest of the morning at leisure. An afternoon of both transformative and experiential travel then begins! We meet up with our spiritual guide to learn more about Balinese spirituality. Our afternoon then takes us to local temples and a visit to a local family home. Here, immerse yourself in the essence of Balinese life and culture. We then head to a traditional Hindu bath whose sacred springs are said to possess curative properties. Another massage and an incredible Indonesian-inspired dinner conclude the day.
This morning, we make our way to the amazing Alila Ubud where we start with a locally prepared and inspired breakfast. We then join their Chef for a fascinating traditional cooking. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about some of the local cuisine and techniques, explore the vegetable gardens and indulge in a mixology class. After lunch, we end the day with a short walk around the local rice terraces and jungles, ending at a nearby Luwak farm for a tasting of the most expensive coffee in the world. Tonight, dinner is served at the property.
Today is your day to relax so do as little, or as much as you'd like! Our guests will have a choice to enjoy some of our favorite activities (included) such as an afternoon of white water rafting through the jungle complete with an afternoon tea stop along the way. For the more courageous members of our group, a 2.30 AM wake-up call followed by a sunrise Volcano Hike is available. Others may opt for the 8 AM departure on a biking tour, discovering a different perspective of life on the island. If your body is telling you to relax, listen to it - take time to relax in the peaceful surroundings of the property for the day. A visit to the town of Ubud town using our complimentary transfers is on offer. Tonight, we are hosted at the Michelin level restaurant MOZAIC for an incredible private tasting experience, paired with international wines.
This morning, we embark on a flight towards the archipelago of Raja Ampat, known as the "Four Kings". This afternoon, we are greeted by a welcome cocktail and a massage. Dinner is served as we set sail at sunset. The name Raja Ampat—literally ‘The Four Kings’—speaks of the mysterious folklore surrounding Indonesia’s most far-flung cluster of islands. Local stories tell of a woman who finds seven mysterious eggs, four of which hatched to become the kings that reigned over the archipelago’s four main islands, Waigo, Salawati, Batanta, and Misool. It’s said that the other three were not so lucky, and become a ghost, a woman, and a stone.
More than 1,500 wild islands, cays, and shoals make up Raja Ampat’s 40,000 square kilometer area, which lies on the northwest tip of the Bird’s Head Peninsula in Papua (New Guinea). Underwater, the marine habitats are among the most biodiverse in the world with 1,200 species of fish and 550 species of hard and soft coral. Giant manta rays, black and white-tipped reef sharks, wobbegong sharks, sea turtles, pygmy seahorses, and schools of barracuda can often be observed. On this journey, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even beach-going are on the schedule daily.
Raja Ampat’s landscapes resemble something out of Jurassic Park with dense tropical jungle giving way to hidden waterfalls and jutting limestone cliffs. Prehistoric wall paintings can be found alongside cave bunkers and a seabed wreckage from WW2. Birdsong from parrots, hornbills, and birds-of-paradise are your soundtrack as you paddle through mangroves on a kayak, stroll on beaches fringed by thick tropical jungle, or meet the indigenous tribes. Today, we have planned to stop on one of the many deserted islands for a traditional Indonesian picnic, complete with bubbly, cocktails and beach time.
For the most adventurous explorers, head off the boat for an early morning hike starting at 5.30 AM; the perfect time to spot the elusive Birds of Paradise. Raja Ampat has long been famous for its Birds of Paradise, ever since the ancient trade in their feathers in the 18th Century. Over 250 species have been connected to the archipelago including the well-known Greater Bird of Paradise. Some of these species can easily be seen during a short excursion. The uphill walk takes about 30 minutes but the reward is panoramic sunrise views from atop the island! Enjoy various water sports activities or indulge in a massage onboard.
On this last full day aboard The Maj, we offer many opportunities to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or even a speedboat tour of the many limestone islands surrounding us. Right before sunset, we head out for visit to the nearby, pearl farms. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the world of pearl farming; one of Raja Ampat's main sources of income. We close the day with a traditional BBQ dinner on a private beach, complete with traditional dances and songs.
After one last traditional breakfast enjoying a beautiful sunrise on board, we disembark and make our way to the local airport where you catch a connecting flight home.
For guests interested in extending, our team of experts would be delighted to research and assist with the design of a very exclusive (maybe romantic) escape beyond Raja Ampat and Indonesia.
Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.
All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
Travel insurance, once purchased, goes into effect upon payment of the premium. You have 15 days from that date to cancel it (providing no claims have been filed or initiated during that period). Beyond 15 days, it becomes non-refundable/non-changeable/non-transferrable.
In case of a cancelation at more than 90 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $1,000 per person administrative fee.
In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $1,000 per person administrative fee.
