Indonesia: Conservation & Culture (4-week Sample Itinerary)
The following is a sample itinerary based on past courses; actual itineraries may vary.
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Week 1
Our program begins in the cultural and artistic heart of the island of Java – the city of Yogyakarta. A dynamic center of cultural preservation and learning, the modern and the ancient mingle on Yogyakarta’s streets amidst a diverse community from points all over Indonesia mix in a rich social tapestry. Students spend the two and a half weeks in Java, gaining insight into one of the world’s most densely populated islands and the influence it has over the the rest of the island nation. -
Week 2
We travel inland and upwards to the rolling green hills of Dieng. Sitting over 6,000 feet above sea level, Dieng comes from the Javanese term Di Hyang which means “Abode of the Gods.” The location of the plateau is home to ancient Hindu temples dating back from the mid 7th-8th century AD and geothermal colored lakes. We’ll have the opportunity to embark on some short hikes to see the geothermal activity in the area, learn about the local agriculture, and take in a stunning sunrise over the surrounding volcanic peaks with the call to prayer echoing in the background. -
Week 3
Leaving the island of Java, we make our way to the more remote island of Sulawesi where flights, buses, and boats take us to the southeastern archipelago of Wakatobi, an extraordinary National Marine Park and home to the Bajau people also known as “sea nomads" for their long held tradition of living entirely apart from the land. Even today, many Bajau communities exist as floating villages or in the tidal zones in between land and sea. -
Week 4
We live in homestays with the Bajau community who build their homes over the open ocean, living close to the marine ecosystem from which they draw their sustenance, venturing to land rarely other than to sell fish in local markets. Before we know it, our time is coming to a close! We'll spend out final days together reflecting on the past month before returning home.
