4D3N Batu and Malang itinerary for a chilly mountain getaway with safari, theme parks and more!
Written by Nadia Crowe Co-written by Beverley Lennon Edited by Beverley Lennon
East Java is massive, it hosts a variety of different landscapes and one town will feel nothing like the other! From the other worldly mountains of Bromo, the colourful villages in Malang, the exciting theme-park capital of Batu, to the buzzing city of Surabaya, there are a variety of different experiences to be had and eventually, you can be sure you’ll never get bored here.
In the early months of 2019, we went on a road trip around East Java from Surabaya to Mount Bromo and discovered the secret mountain townships of Malang and Batu – considered to be the chilly highlands of the region, with temperatures dropping slightly to combat the typical Indonesian heat.
We thoroughly enjoyed the bunch of scenic places both little towns have on offer – Malang being the city of apples where you’ll feel like in New Zealand and Batu being the theme-park capital will surely get the inner kid in you screaming!
Now, we bring you an exciting itinerary that’ll give you a taste of both chilly mountain townships where you’ll get to dine with giraffes, step into a safari with free-roaming animals, explore slums that have been turned into colourful vibrant villages, sample delicious local cuisine, and get your adrenaline pumping! Time to explore further than just Surabaya!
If you’ve never been to East Java, then you’re in for a treat! Malang and Batu are two (still relatively hidden) gems, which are just begging to be explored!
From colourful villages, to serene mountainous backdrops, each experience is bound to make you sigh in awe. Let’s not forget some incredible animal encounters too, from ferocious tigers to majestic giraffes, you’ll feel like you’re in Africa sometimes!
Food will be nothing to scoff at either, so prepare your taste buds!
Here’s a quick overview of this itinerary Tap sections below to scroll to the relevant section
Total cost: From SGD 163 Step 1: Take a flight from Changi Airport Singapore via Garuda Indonesia, Jetstar, Scoot, SilkAir or Singapore Airlines to Juanda International Airport Surabaya. Flight duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes. Return flights from SGD 149. Step 2: When travelling to Batu, the easiest option is to hire a private driver/car the drive will take roughly 2 hours from Surabaya. Step 3: Malang is an hour’s drive away from Batu so hiring a private driver/car will be your best option again.
Total cost: From RM 494 Step 1: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport via Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia or Citilink, to Juanda International Airport Surabaya. Flight duration: 2 hours and 40 minutes. Return flights from MYR 452. Step 2: When travelling to Batu, the easiest option is to hire a private driver/car the drive will take roughly 2 hours from Surabaya. Step 3: Malang is an hour’s drive away from Batu so hiring a private driver/car will be your best option again.
From Jakarta: Total cost: From Rp. 2,127,800 Step 1: Take a direct flight from Jakarta Soekarno Hatta International Airport via Citilink (also available at Halim Airport), Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, or Sriwijaya to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport Malang. Flight duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes. Step 3: When travelling to Batu, the easiest option is to hire a private driver as it’s only an hour’s drive away.
Day 1
Meet roaring tigers, explore a safari park and sleep next to zebras!
You’ve landed in the right place, but the journey isn’t over yet! Hop in the car and get ready for a bit of a drive to your hotel! Don’t worry, marvel at the views on the road, the changing landscape… or catch up on your sleep!
Note: We’ve recommended some car rental options at the end of this article!
Sighting a tiger in a jungle is a dream for many, so when we heard we could have lunch with tigers surrounding us, I have to say that we were pretty excited! Relax, it isn’t much of a frightening experience but rather an impressive one. We were lucky enough to secure the best table that gave us unobstructed views of the tigers roaming around and roaring for food.
I was thrilled to get such up-close views of the carnivores; would we be their lunch? I hoped not. As we ordered some of the chef’s recommendations, the moment we’ve all been waiting for began — it was lunch time for the tigers too!
What better way to explore a safari than by driving through the animal kingdom yourself? Giving it a thought – I believe this is what made our trip there quite a remarkable experience. You’re in the comfort of your car with only your friends and family, so it makes it very intimate and enjoyable.
The safari is divided into different zones, where you can find animals from different continents. You’ll have zebras by your window when in the African zone, and you can feed the enormous bison in the American/European zone, and admire the elephants in Asia.
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Safari adventure at Taman Safari Prigen
Entrance fee:From Rp. 160,000 (Approximately USD $11) *Inclusive of Safari Adventure, Baby Zoo, Aquatic Land, 4 Animal Show, Dolphin Show, Temple of Terror* Address: Desa Jatiarjo RT.12/RW.06, Prigen, Pasuruan, Jawa Timur 67157, Indonesia Contact: +62 343 6743 000 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8.30am-5pm
At Baobab Safari Resort, you’re in a prime location to spot African wildlife! The resort lobby itself expands to the outdoor area where you’ll find the pool and the animal park – it is quite a spectacle; your eyes will glisten like real kids as you walk through what would be your ultimate “African Safari Lodge”.
While there are various room categories (all of them with unique safari feels) at the resort, you sure want to opt for their Premium Safari room to wake up overlooking the most exciting members of the animal kingdom! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing animals roaming around freely as compared to what you have seen before in many countries in Asia (where the poor creatures are caged).
Your first sunset this holiday should be spectacular, and at D’gunungan, it’s definitely a view to remember. With the sprawling township situated below, it’s perfect for watching as day turns to night and the lights start coming on one by one.
Serving a variety of food, ranging from authentic Indonesian cuisine, a spectacular fusion, to full blown Western delicacies, there’s ample options for just about anyone (even the fussy eaters!) You could even choose to have your meal picnic style, situated amongst the grass on beautiful cushions!
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D’Gunungan at The Taman Dayu
Price:Mains from Rp.40,000 (approximately USD $2.85) Address: Kawasan The Sagamore Hills – The Taman Dayu, Jl. Raya Surabaya Malang Km 48, Pandaan 67156 Pasuruan, Jawa Timur – Indonesia Contact: +62 813 35117779 Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 11am – 10pm; Sat – Sun, 10am – 10pm
If you’ve been to the Night Safari in Singapore before, you sure must have hated the long queue but rest assured, the night safari walk at Baobab Safari Resort is much more intimate than the ones at popular attractions.
And we know you might be thinking it will be too dark to see anything, but you’re absolutely wrong as the animals will be visible with the help of torchlights (just don’t flash right into their eyes!).
What’s different at nighttime is that you’ll get to see all kinds of nocturnal animals coming out to hunt for their food – snakes, spiders, bats are only a few of them. So no, it won’t be the same old animals that you’ve seen during the day! Plus, I personally think that walking in the dark knowing you’re surrounded by animals is quite an adrenaline-inducing experience! Isn’t it?!
Besides waking up with close views of the surrounding wildlife, this morning, you’re welcome to share your breakfast table with Zahara, Zahari and Kamil – the three celebrity giraffes at Baobab Safari Resort!
It’s an experience like no other as the three long-necked creatures gently make way to your table, scoping out your breakfast and hoping for a snack. You will be provided with leaves and vegetables to feed them.
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Breakfast with Giraffes
Price: From Rp.300,000 for 2 pax (Approximately USD $21) Opening hours: Available with prior booking from 7am – 7.30am
Before 2016, Kampung Jodipan and Tridi were nothing more than a dull slum area. But the fate of this village changed after a group of students from the local university proposed to paint the village with murals and colourful hues.
Now, almost every part of these villages have turned into a perfect frame for photographers. The best way to start exploring Kampung Jodipan is from Brantas road bridge, where you can see the colourful rainbow village on one side and the blue village on the other side. And if you’re lucky like us, you may even catch a sight of the local trains departing from the nearby station on the Brantas bridge.
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Kampung Jodipan, Tridi, and Biru Arema
Entrance fee:Rp. 3,000 (Approximately USD $0.20) for each village. Address: Kesatrian, Kec. Blimbing, Malang City, East Java 65126 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 6am-6pm
Once we stepped in, it was as though we had wandered into a whimsical Wonderland, someone’s secret hideout.
We entered a lovely greenhouse framed by vines and leaves, strolled through a walkway intricately lined with garden greenery from ceiling to pillars, before entering a colourful indoor seating area decorated with encouraging quotes and gypsy trinkets.
And along the way from the greenhouse, tables and seats were scattered and tucked into little spaces, so when you find your spot, you know it’s time to settle down with your book and order one of their refreshing fresh juices (we loved them, some of us even had double servings!). It’s the perfect place to while away the afternoon in that secret spot.
Photo Via Firlandireza, Mutiaramalakha, Claraangelinast, Kerenlalamentik
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Madam Wang Secret Garden
Price:Mains from Rp. 15,000 – Rp. 37,000 ( Approximately USD $1.05 – $2.58); Drinks from Rp. 10,000 – Rp. 25,000 (Approximately USD $0.70 – $1.74) Address: Jl. Telomoyo No.12, Gading Kasri, Kec. Klojen, Malang City, East Java 65115 Contact: +62 341 507 5761; +62 813 3080 6663 Opening hours: Mon – Thu 8am-10pm; Fri 8am-4pm; Sat 6.30pm-11pm; Sun 9am-10pm
While in Malang, we got a cuddly floof fix at Pawvillion Dog Café! Being real dog lovers, we were more than thrilled to meet Angelo and Pepper the Goldens, Loki the husky, Paddy the Bedlington Terrier, Buby the Beagle and all of their other cute furry friends! It’s almost as if we stepped into ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ movie scene!
To be able to play with the dogs, you’ll have to spend a minimum of Rp. 30,000 per person. But since we were quite a big group, we needed to spend a minimum of Rp. 150,000 and the best part yet is that we secured the VIP table and sofas. We were happy to see that the dogs were well-taken care of and the cafe was clean too!
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Pawvillion Dog Café
Price:Mains from Rp. 15,000 – Rp. 75,000 (Approximately USD $1.05 – $5.23); Drinks from Rp. 18,000 – Rp. 30,000 (Approximately USD $1.26 – $2.10) Address: Jl. Kesemek No.4, Pisang Candi, Kec. Sukun, Malang City, East Java 65146 Contact: +62 812 1268 7773 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 9am-9pm (Tue closed)
What comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘museum’? If just like us you assume that all museums are boring; you’ll be surprised by Museum Angkut! We had so much fun here!
Known to be South East Asia’s largest transportation museum, this is where we had the chance to check out over 300 collections of modes of transport from all over the world!
Yes, that includes coming up close to a real 66 Ford Mustang, stepping into a real size Indonesian presidential plane (the best part, if you ask us!), standing next to a gigantic rocket replica and so much more!
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Museum Angkut
Entrance fee:Rp. 100,000 (Approximately USD $7) Address: Jalan Sultan Agung 2, Ngaglik, Batu City, East Java, 65314 Contact: +62 341 595 007 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 12pm-8pm
There sure is a reason for this place’s name. Indeed, we did feel the 15°C temperature at the rooftop skylounge as it got quite chilly once the sun dropped, but the views are beyond amazing!
If you make it in time for the golden hour, you’ll also be able to spot on the last sights of the surrounding mountain ranges and vast plantations as the sky slowly gets swallowed by darkness, replacing the scenery with sparkling stars and city lights.
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15 Celsius The Skylounge
Price:Mains from Rp. 60,000 – Rp. 117,000 (Approximately USD $4.18 – $8.17). Drinks from Rp. 22,000 – Rp. 100,000 (Approximately USD $1.53 – $7) Address: Jalan Abdul Gani Atas, Ngaglik, Batu City, East Java 65311 Contact: +62 341 525777 / +62 813 30055188 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 2pm-10pm
We never expected to find a Little Japan right in Batu! This dreamy resort has brought us one step closer to the land of sashimi, ramen and sakura blossoms.
The resort owners’ close attention to details in replicating a mini Japanese town — such as the design of the ryokan homes, onsen (hot spring), architecture and overall vibes — almost made us forget that we were still in Indonesia.
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The Onsen Hot Spring Resort
Rates: From USD $125 (Approximately Rp.1,762,375) for Deluxe Suite Twin Address: Jl. Arumdalu No.98, Songgokerto, Batu City, East Java 65312 Contact: +62 341 5101888 Website
Known as the country’s largest apple producer, one simply shouldn’t miss out on picking fresh apples from the trees at Kusuma Agrowisata while in Malang – they’re one of the pioneers of agrotourism in Indonesia and have opened their orchards to the public since the early 90’s.
In here, the air is fresh and crisp – you get to happily connect with nature and spend some fun good times outdoors and eat as many fruits as you want!
Depending on the harvesting season, you’ll also find oranges, dragon fruits, and strawberries. The best part about this place is that a single ticket will grant you access to an all-you-can-eat fruit day and unlimited fun for the kids at the on-site water park!
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Kusuma Agrowisata
Price range:From Rp. 25,000 (Approximately USD $1.74) for guava picking tour (including all you can eat guava, fruit juice and access to water park) Address: JL. Abdul Gani Atas PO. BOX 36, Batu City, East Java 65311 Contact: +62 341 599 418/ +62 800 159 3333 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8am-5pm
Bring along your magnifying glass and put on your green vest, my friends! Because today we are going to take a journey back to the era of dinosaurs!
There’s also a Legend Stars Park! From Hollywood top actors to world-renowned politicians and activists, we were lucky enough to meet some of our celebrity crushes and pose next to them.
If you’ve been thinking of a round-the-world trip, here’s where you can hop from one continent to the next within a few minutes. Their newest addition in the world tour is the ‘Diagon Alley’, where we got to dress like Harry Potter and friends to battle Voldemort!!
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Jawa Timur Park 3
Entrance:Rp. 75,000 (Approximately USD $5.23) on Mon – Thu; Rp. 100,000 (Approximately USD $7) on Fri – Sun. For ticket packages, click here. Address: Jl. Ir. Soekarno No.144, Beji, Junrejo, Batu City, East Java 65236 Phone: +62 341 510 3030; +62 344 510 3033 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 11am-6pm Map of Jatim Park 3: https://jtp.id/dinopark/peta?lang=ING
For a calm and unique dining experience, Paddy City Resort is all about enjoying the natural environment in a typical Indonesian village. Paddy fields, wooden houses, and the smell of freshness are three elements that make this resort memorable.
With tables placed literally in the middle of the rice fields, you can be intimately close to nature. Listen to the sounds of the nearby river while you enjoy local drinks such as Wedang Jahe, a warm traditional ginger drink.
You will only find traditional local dishes here – Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice), meat specialties like Krengseng Sapi (Beef), Sup Iga Sapi (Beef Ribs Soup), or Ayam Rica-Rica (Spicy Chicken).
There is no shortage of unique hotels in Malang, but this one has got to take the cake. Resembling an actual ship, and decked out with a massive swimming pool, you’ll want to spend at least a few hours exploring every inch of this hotel! If you have time, you should also spend an hour or two wandering around The Legend Park which it is located in!
Located conveniently next to Jawa Timur Park 3, you can rest assured that you won’t have to wait long after your exhausting day at the theme park before being able to crash in one of their yacht-like rooms!
Photo Via Fifi_ikayati, _shidiqsatria
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Kapal Garden Hotel
Rates:Deluxe Double Room from Rp.450,000 (approximately USD $32) Address: Jl. Raya Sengkaling No.188, Malang, Jawa Timur Contact: +62 341 505 4000 Website
We have tasted several fruit chips in Malang and we have to say that we prefer the ones at Lancar Jaya. The chips here taste fresh and they’re the crunchiest! They also come with an affordable price tag as compared to other touristy outlets. We tried their apple chips, banana chips, as well as jack fruit chips and loved them all!
Don’t forget to pick some up as souvenirs, and explore some other options in the shop!
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Lancar Jaya Sanan Malang
Price:Rp. 5,500 – Rp. 31,000 (Approximately USD $0.38 – $2.16) Address: Jl. R. Tumenggung Suryo No.86, Purwantoro, Kec. Blimbing, Malang City, East Java 65123 Contact: +62 851 0233 9000 Opening hours: Mon – Sun 7am-9 pm
Malang Strudel is where you’ll be able to stock up on the legendary apple strudel. These delicacies come in various versions and flavours and we thoroughly enjoyed its taste – not too sweet, yet fresh, flaky on the outside and soft on the inside. The outlet also sells several other snacks that are unique to the region; in fact it is a one-stop souvenir shop!
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Malang Strudel
Price:Strudels from Rp. 50,000 (Approximately USD $3.48) Address: Jalan Semeru No.47, Oro-oro Dowo, Klojen, Kauman, Kota Malang, East Java 65115. Check out other branches here. Contact: +62 341 301 2773 Opening hours: Mon – Sun, 6am – 10pm
We know, this is always the worst part, but at least the long drive back to the airport will give you time to start planning your next trip to Java, there’s just so much more to be seen!
You can explore Malang city easily with online taxi services such as GOJEK and Grab. But if you are travelling around different areas, we recommend you to rent a car instead.
Renting a car without a driver/ with driver
During our trip to East Java, we rented a private car and decided to self-drive as we’re quite familiar with the roads in Indonesia. We were happy with the services received from ‘Yes rent car ‘and the vehicle was in a very good condition too.
If you’re not confident about driving in Indonesia, opt for their car rental services with driver provided and enjoy a worry-free trip in the highlands!
Without driver
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Yes Rent Car
Price:Self-drive car from Rp. 300,000 per day (Calya, Approximately USD $21). Address: Jl. Rungkut Mejoyo Utara VIII, Kec. Rungkut, Surabaya City Contact: +62 812 1708 8450 (Whatsapp) Please book at least 1 day in advance to ensure car availability.
Price: Car with driver from Rp. 400,000 per day (Avanza, Approximately USD $30) Address: Jl. Mayjend Sungkono IV No 121, Kedungkandang, Malang City Contact: +62 813 5347 0333
If you wish to visit natural attractions around Malang like Mount Bromo or the surrounding waterfalls, we recommend you to come during the dry season which falls between June to October. Throughout the wet season (December – April), it will be gloomy on most days and terrains at natural attractions can get very slippery.
TripCanvas’ Tip: We were there during the Ramadan season and thoroughly enjoyed visiting around with no crowd!
Travel Budget- Estimated Cost Breakdown
Travel costs: Travelling from Singapore: SGD $163 / USD $120 per pax (USD $480 for 4 pax) Travelling from Malaysia: MYR 494 / USD $119 per pax (USD $476 for 4 pax)
Activities (4 pax): Approximately USD $101 (calculated based on activities listed, not inclusive of shopping)
Car rental (4 pax): Approximately USD $120 (for 4 days with driver)
Total cost for food (4 pax): Approximately USD $133
Total cost for hotels (4 pax): Approximately USD $440 (2 rooms)
Estimated Total for 4 pax from Singapore (Flight+Activities+Transport+Food+Hotel): ~ USD $ 1274 /SGD $ 1734.30 (~USD $ 318.5 / SGD $433.60 per pax) Estimated Total for 4 pax from Malaysia (Flight+Activities+Transport+Food+Hotel): ~ USD $ 1270 /MYR 5282.05 (~USD $ 317.5 / MYR 1320.50 per pax)
Batu and Malang are still two relatively unexplored hidden gems, tag some friends who would love a short getaway with chilly weather and thinner crowds!
Nadia Crowe: Eco-friendly princess, sunset chaser and photography enthusiast, I aim to help people roam the world in ways that are both better for the traveller and for the environment. One of my biggest passions is exploring the unexplored!
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