Indonesia Travel Guide: Mount Merapi Tours in Jogjakarta

Mount Merapi is not an unknown mountain. Whether you’ve heard of it or not, it’s one of the most active and powerful volcanoes in Jogjakarta, Indonesia. It has erupted many times, and each eruption has left a deep mark on the people living nearby.

But thanks to the hard work of those in the tourism industry, Mount Merapi is now one of the must-visit places in Jogjakarta (JOGJAKARTA THINGS TO DO). Tourists can explore this strong and scary mountain in a safe way. A Mount Merapi tour is an adventure from start to finish. You will ride in a jeep and stop at three places before going back to where you started.

Jogjakarta, Indonesia: Top Things to Do

Jogjakarta (also spelled Yogyakarta) has a lot to offer. If you have about a week, that’s a good amount of time to explore without rushing. The people in Jogjakarta are generally humble, friendly, and simple. But when it comes to driving, it can be a different story - traffic can be heavy, and drivers may seem impatient. Still, they’ll get you safely to all the main tourist spots, even with the jams.

Museum Ullen Sentalu

Located in the highlands of Kaliurang near Yogyakarta, Museum Ullen Sentalu is where you can learn about Javanese history and culture. It was opened in 1994 and is privately owned. Inside, you’ll find royal family heirlooms, traditional batik, and artworks that tell the story of the Mataram kingdom and how Javanese culture has changed over time.

Borobudur Temple, Central Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Borobudur Temple: A Must-See in Central Java

When in Indonesia, specifically in Central Java, one of the top sights you shouldn’t miss is Borobudur Temple. Recognised globally, this monumental Mahayana Buddhist structure is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Built in the 9th century during the Sailendra Dynasty, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate stone carvings, striking architecture, and symbolic design (JOGJAKARTA INDONESIA THINGS TO DO).

 

The temple represents Buddhist cosmology through its three levels: the world of desire, the world of forms, and the formless world. These levels reflect Buddhist beliefs, representing human desire, spiritual growth, and enlightenment.

Jogjakarta, Indonesia: What to Do

Jogjakarta, also spelled Yogyakarta and often called Jogja, is located in the southern part of the island of Java, Indonesia. While it’s geographically surrounded by Central Java, Jogja is a special region with its own Sultan, the only province in Indonesia still ruled this way. The city sits inland from the Indian Ocean, near Mount Merapi, and lies south of Semarang and east of Jakarta (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA TOURIST SPOTS).

Known as the heart of Java, Jogja is rich in culture and heritage. But at the same time, urban development continues to shape its landscape. From well-known attractions to lesser-visited corners, there are plenty of things to do - whether you're following the tourist trail or discovering hidden gems (THINGS TO DO IN JAIPUR, INDIA).

Kari Kambing Malaysia (Malaysian Mutton Curry)

(Updated Version)

Curious about why Ms. Nava’s mutton curry is dubbed Kari Kambing Malaysia? It’s not just any mutton curry; it’s a beloved staple that resonates with Malaysians from all walks of life. Crafted with vibrant spices, this curry is perfectly spicy - just the way Malaysians love it. Can you almost taste it? I bet you’re nodding in agreement or perhaps even salivating (THAI RED MUTTON CURRY).

But wait, there’s more! I have a vast collection of mutton recipes, and despite sharing quite a number already, there's still more to explore - each with its own unique twist. From classic to innovative, you'll find variations to suit every palate. In fact, I’m sharing more than one recipe here, guiding you on how to tweak mutton curries into fresh, exciting dishes (MUTTON DIVERSE RECIPES).

Things to Do in Pretoria, South Africa

Pretoria, the administrative capital nestled in the northern part of Gauteng Province, has been central to South Africa's history. It is a significant city due to the major events that have taken place over the years. Today, Pretoria has transformed into a modern South African city worth including in your South Africa sightseeing itinerary. Whether you join a city tour or explore on your own, there are landmarks, historic buildings, and meaningful spots to visit -  or take your time visiting public gardens, monuments, and cultural sites (MUST TRY FOOD IN SOUTH AFRICA).

It may be quieter than Johannesburg, but it holds its own charm and significance. This guide highlights the top things to do in Pretoria, especially if you want to explore the city’s character beyond the surface (TAJ MAHAL AGRA INDIA UNESCO SITE).

Must-Try Food in South Africa

South African cuisine (BEST THINGS TO DO IN JOHANNESBURG) blends local traditions with global flavours. Popular dishes like braai, bobotie, pap, and biltong are found in eateries that serve traditional food or at local street stalls. Don’t hesitate to ask what’s on your plate, it’s the best way to learn and enjoy. You’ll also find a wide range of Indian, Chinese, Western, and South African fusion food, making food a key part of your travel experience. When in South Africa, its about what to eat and where to find it (CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA THINGS TO DO).

Best Things to Do in Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, also known as Joburg, is South Africa’s largest city and a key destination alongside Cape Town. Known as the “City of Gold” due to the 1886 gold rush, Johannesburg is rich in history, nature, and unique travel experiences. If you're flying from Cape Town (TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN CAPE TOWN), expect a two-hour flight into O.R. Tambo International Airport. Depending on how long you stay, even two days is enough to explore some of the top things to do in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here are three must-visit attractions.

The Lion & Safari Park

Located in the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park offers a scenic bushveld backdrop and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Established in 1966, it has grown into a popular tourist and conservation center. Don’t miss the Cub World, where visitors queue up for a rare moment to interact with lion cubs,  one person at a time, with just two to three minutes allocated per visitor (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).