Kabupaten Lumajang, Indonesia

Javanese Cultural Adventure: Explore Wild East Java & Authentic Cultural Immersion

4.9
(45 reviews)45

The group will dive deep into the soul of East Java, where high-octane adventure meets the "Pandhalungan" culture. This journey is built for the bold: it’s a local-led expedition where you will hike to the Ijen Blue Fire, conquer the rugged terrain of Mount Bromo, and feel the adrenaline of a Lava Tour. This isn't just about the views; it’s about the connection. Between treks, you’ll experience the authentic rhythm of rural life, from the vibrant atmosphere of Pasar Kabun to learning traditional arts directly from the community. Led by local experts who know every secret trail, this experience is designed for those ready to explore the wild side of Java while engaging in a genuine, one-of-a-kind cultural exchange.

  • Wellness & Cultural Immersion

  • NGO

  • Requires Beginner English or Intermediate English

  • 9 days

  • Up to 12 travelers

Haidar Faiz Zuhair
Worldpackers host since Jan/2024

Starting from

US$ 1,057 for 9 days (US$ 117.44 per day)

Check dates & prices

Starting from US$ 1,057
9 days 4.9
Check dates & prices

Available group trips

Jan 01, 2028 - Jan 09, 2028

Coming soon

More dates available soon

Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!

Starting from

US$ 1,057

Join waitlist

Itinerary

The activities in this itinerary and their order can be adjusted according to seasonality and the needs of the project.

What's included

Exclusive Trip Coordinator

Connect with a Travel Expert who's ready to guide you through your journey via email and video calls, making sure all your questions are answered.

Comprehensive Program Guide

Get a complete and trustworthy go-to guide with travel logistics, destination highlights, full itinerary, host info, safety tips, and more.

Pre-trip preparation checklist

Get immediate access to a checklist outlining the essential steps you must take to prepare for a safe journey, with no surprises along the way.

Local guidance and support on the ground

Connect with grassroots hosts, passionate, reliable, and rooted in their communities.

Adventure Activities

Enjoy iconic East Javanese adventures including a midnight trek to witness Ijen’s Blue Fire, a scenic 4x4 Jeep safari through Bromo’s volcanic desert, and a thrilling expedition to the majestic Tumpak Sewu and Kapas Biru waterfalls.

Three Meals a Day

Enjoy delicious 3 daily meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — prepared by local hosts and guesthouse cooks. Please note that three lunches are not included, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the local flavor on your own or enjoy the vibrant food stalls during our community events.

Airport Pick-Up & Drop-Off

You’ll be picked up at Surabaya Juanda International Airport (SUB) and driven directly to the project accommodation in Lumajang. At the end of your journey, we’ll take you back to the airport for your departure, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer.

Accommodation

Stay at our authentic village retreat featuring four unique accommodation styles, ranging from private Joglo houses with double beds to shared superior and family rooms.

Orientation & Support

On your first day, join a Welcome Presentation to fully immerse yourself in the project. You will tour our lush gardens, get to know the heart of the space, and connect deeply with your host to learn more about the upcoming journey, safety guidelines, and the local cultural etiquette of the village.

Cooking Class

Prepare a traditional Javanese lunch alongside a local host using fresh ingredients picked straight from our garden.

Cultural immersion

Experience authentic village life through hands-on workshops, connect with local traditions through Javanese dance and Gamelan music. You will move beyond tourism to truly bond with the community.

Transportation

A dedicated car and driver will be available for your group throughout the entire trip, covering all transfers, adventure sites, and local travel for a seamless experience.

Authentic Community Event

Experience the vibrant Pasar Kebun, a rich community celebration featuring traditional dance, music, and the "Keris" art. It’s a deep dive into the village soul, blending local food, talkshows, and authentic cultural exchange.


What's not included

Flight tickets and info

Visas and documentation

Travel Insurance


Requirements

  • Beginner English or Intermediate English
  • Over 18 years old

Activities

See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.

Learning opportunities

Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.

Immersion activities

Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.

Extra activities

Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.


Videos


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45 Reviews

4.9

India

5

I had an amazing time at the organization, I got to meet the local children and spend time with them, and go around the village and experience the local culture. It was great way to reconnect with nature by visiting the waterfalls and the beach. Ms.Asih and her family are doing an amazing work at the organization promoting sustainable living and education.

10 days ago

Guatemala

5

Volunteering at the organization was an amazing experience! Asih (the host) was incredibly kind, caring, and supportive — always making sure I was comfortable and happy. The children are full of energy and love, and teaching them English was such a joy. I'll always remember the laughter, the meals we shared, and the sense of community here. Thank you for making this experience so special! looking forward to volunteering again next year❤️ muchas gracias muchas veces!

2 months ago

Malaysia

5

The stay and host was amazing!!! They were super friendly, understanding and down to earth people. I've learn alot about living of the earth and going closer to your roots with mother nature. The epic activities that we did was memorable. I wish to comeback again next year!!!! Pasar Kebun 2026, here I come!!!

3 months ago

Spain

5

My experience at the organization has been truly special. It's the kind of place that lets you truly dive into the local culture, you get to see how people truly live in Indonesia,connect with amazing and different people, learn to cook and eat fresh food from the garden and take part in beautiful excursions. The atmosphere is full of kindness, authenticity and sharing. I'm deeply grateful to the whole family, especially to Asih, for the incredible work they do and the heart they put into every project. I wish you all the best and I'm sure everything you build will grow beautifully

3 months ago

Spain

5

I spent 10 days at Omah Sinau Gesang, and it has been a wonderful experience. From the first day, they welcomed me like family. I had the opportunity to participate in the Pulo Carnival, learn how to make tempeh, and visit the school and local places. Without a doubt, I'm taking a real piece of Indonesia home with me. We cooked with food from the garden, and I explored beautiful natural sites. I hope to come back soon. Thank you, Asih i Haider, for everything. <3

4 months ago

United Kingdom

5

Wow, where to begin! I have had the most incredible experience at the organization. In only such a short space of time I feel like I have experienced and learnt so much. This volunteering experience so impactful and so fun but I have also found my family in Indonesia 🫶🏽 Asih was kind, humble, loving and incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. She made delicious food and shared stories and goals with us. Haidar was with us every day, taking us to the village to experience fun activities such (tofu making, day trip to the waterfall). What a wonderful family, I'll remember my time here forever. Thank you the organization💗

5 months ago


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Accommodation options

Joglo House (private en-suite)

The traveler will stay in a traditional Joglo House, one of our curated accommodation options that blends Javanese heritage with modern comfort. This setup is designed for privacy and rest, featuring one traveler per room in a private space equipped with a comfortable double bed and an en-suite bathroom. With only five of these rooms available, the group enjoys an intimate and peaceful environment. It is the perfect retreat for those looking to experience authentic local architecture firsthand while maintaining their own personal space throughout the journey.

5 bedrooms 5 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (under 50 Mbps)
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Hot water showers
  • Pool
  • Lockers

Shared Superior Twin Room (max 2 people)

The group also has the option of staying in a Superior Room, a comfortable and social choice for those traveling with a friend or looking to bond with a fellow traveler. This option features two single beds per room, with a maximum capacity of two people per room to ensure a balanced and relaxed atmosphere. While the modern bathroom is located just outside the room, it is easily accessible and maintained for the group’s convenience. With only two of these rooms available, it offers a great blend of community living and a cozy, organized home base.

2 bedrooms 1 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (under 50 Mbps)
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Hot water showers
  • Pool
  • Lockers

Shared Family House Suite (max 2 people)

For those seeking extra space, the Family House offers a premium shared stay within the project grounds. This option features a large, well-appointed room equipped with two king size beds, providing ample personal space and comfort for a maximum of two travelers per room. With its own private en-suite bathroom, this unit is designed for those who value a bit more room to breathe while remaining fully immersed in the local community atmosphere. As there is only one room of this type available, it offers a more exclusive and spacious home base for the group.

1 bedrooms 1 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (under 50 Mbps)
  • Hot water showers
  • Pool
  • Lockers

Private Standard Queen Room

The Standard Room is an ideal choice for the solo traveler seeking a private and peaceful space to unwind. This option features a comfortable queen-size bed, offering a spacious sleeping area for one person per room. While the bathroom is located outside the room, it is conveniently nearby and shared only with a small number of group members. With only one room of this type available, it provides a cozy and dedicated retreat for those who prefer their own private quarters while participating in the village's sustainable initiatives.

1 bedrooms 1 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (under 50 Mbps)
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Hot water showers
  • Pool
  • Lockers

Meals

Travelers will experience the rich flavors of East Java through three daily meals. Breakfast is served at the hotel and features Western options, such as eggs and toast. For lunch and dinner, the group will head to the project site to enjoy authentic traditional dishes like Nasi Tempong or local vegetable curries. These meals are prepared by community members using fresh, seasonal ingredients from nearby markets and are a central part of the cultural exchange. Vegetarians and those with specific dietary needs can be accommodated, ensuring everyone is fueled for the day’s activities while supporting the local food economy.

Included meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dietary restrictions
Vegetarian friendly

Arrival orientation

The traveler will be greeted at Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya by a team member wearing a specific project T-shirt and lanyard. From there, the group will take a 3-to-4-hour transfer directly to the project site. To ensure total peace of mind, contact details and staff photos are shared in advance. We recommend coordinating arrival times with the host for a smooth transition. This local support ensures the traveler arrives safely and comfortably, avoiding the complexities of navigating rural transport independently.

Pickup included
Juanda International Airport

About the project

Hosted by Haidar Faiz Zuhair
4.9
(45 reviews)45

The group will be guided by a passionate local organization dedicated to cultural preservation and community empowerment. This host works as a bridge between tradition and the future, managing projects that range from youth education to sustainable tourism development. By joining them, the traveler supports a team that values social equity and local heritage. The host provides deep cultural context and ensures that every activity respects the local customs while maximizing the positive impact on the village families.

Top host
This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.
Languages spoken in this project
English, Indonesian
How long does it exist
10 years
Worldpackers host
Since Jan/2024

About the destination

Located in the Lumajang Regency of East Java, the destination is a vibrant tapestry of rice paddies, bamboo groves, and traditional neighborhoods. This area is the heart of the Pandhalungan culture, a unique blend of Javanese and Madurese influences. Away from the tourist crowds, the traveler will experience the genuine warmth of rural Indonesia. The region is famous for its proximity to majestic volcanoes and hidden waterfalls, offering a raw and beautiful backdrop for a journey focused on purpose and discovery.

Local currency
Rupiah (Rp)
Timezone
GMT +7

Impact & Purpose

This experience empowers the local community by turning cultural heritage into a tool for sustainable growth. The group’s participation directly funds local education and helps preserve traditional arts that are at risk of disappearing. By choosing this journey, the traveler supports a model of travel that prioritizes people over profits, ensuring that the local economy thrives while the unique identity of the Pandhalungan people is celebrated and protected.

This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals


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