Borobudur Sunrise from Punthuk Setumbu, Unique Chicken church & Merapi Volcano

Exploring Yogyakarta’s Hidden Gems: A Complete Review of the Borobudur Sunrise, Chicken Church & Merapi Volcano Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Yogyakarta and want to see some of its most iconic sights while enjoying a mix of natural beauty and quirky attractions, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. While we haven’t personally taken it, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to make the most of a day in Central Java.

What we love about this tour is how it balances early mornings with stunning sunrise views, visits to one-of-a-kind structures, and an adventurous jeep ride on one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Plus, the private vehicle and included entries mean you get a smooth, hassle-free day. A potential drawback? The early start might be tough for some, especially if you’re not a morning person.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want authentic sights, incredible landscapes, and a touch of local culture—ideal for those eager to see Borobudur at dawn, snap unique photos of Gereja Ayam, and experience the thrill of Mount Merapi’s lava tour. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided day trips packed with variety and value.

Key Points

Stunning Sunrise at Punthuk Setumbu: Witness one of the best panoramic views of Borobudur with a sunrise that can make you feel like you’re floating above the clouds.
Unique Architecture at Gereja Ayam: Experience a fun, quirky church that’s shaped like a hen (or a dove, if you ask the builder), offering a lighthearted contrast to the ancient temples.
Majestic Borobudur Temple: Marvel at the world’s largest Buddhist temple, adorned with reliefs, stupas, and Buddha statues, all restored with UNESCO’s help.
Active Volcano Adventure: Get your adrenaline going with a jeep ride around Mount Merapi and see the lava fields of one of the most active volcanoes on the planet.
Comfort and Convenience: The tour includes air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and all entrance fees at Punthuk Setumbu, Chicken Church, and Merapi Volcano.
Flexible and Private: Only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience, with optional group discounts and pickup from your hotel.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer: Starting the Day

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Yogyakarta. The private vehicle ensures you travel comfortably and on schedule—a major plus when trying to maximize sightseeing in a limited time.

Punthuk Setumbu: Sunrise with a View

Approximately two hours from your pickup, you’ll arrive at Punthuk Setumbu, a 40-meter-high hill in Karangrejo village. Here, the early morning is the highlight: as dawn breaks, you’ll be treated to an almost surreal landscape where Borobudur appears to float amidst the clouds.

What makes this spot special is the potential to see Merapi and Merbabu mountains illuminated by the rising sun—weather dependent, of course. Reviewers have raved about this early start, noting that it’s worth waking up for the “cloud palace” scenery, with one commenting, “seeing the sunrise appear and shine between Merapi and Merbabu Mountain” was unforgettable.

Gereja Ayam: Fun and Quirky

Next, the tour takes you to Gereja Ayam, popularly called the Chicken Church due to its shape resembling a hen, although it was built as a dove. The structure’s whimsical design makes it a popular photo stop and offers a break from the ancient temples.

One reviewer humorously admitted, “I flamed the chicken church,” referencing its humorous nickname and unique appearance. The church’s unconventional look and the surrounding greenery make it an enjoyable 1.5-hour visit, giving you a playful contrast to the spiritual serenity of Borobudur.

Borobudur Temple: The Iconic Wonder

The crown jewel of the day is Borobudur, a sprawling Buddhist temple complex built in the 8th and 9th centuries. You’ll explore its terraced levels, intricate reliefs, and 72 openwork stupas, each housing a Buddha statue.

The experience is enhanced by the fact that the temple was restored with UNESCO’s assistance, ensuring its preservation and beauty. Expect to spend about two hours here, marveling at the craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to see Borobudur without the crowds that can gather later in the day, especially if you arrive early after sunrise.

Lunch Break (Excluded from the package)

A local restaurant awaits for your lunch. While not included, this is a great chance to enjoy traditional Indonesian dishes, perhaps nasi goreng or sate, to refuel for the afternoon adventures.

Mount Merapi Viewpoint and Lava Tour

Post-lunch, you’ll head to the Merapi Volcano viewing post, a great spot to appreciate the volcano’s formidable presence. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of the active mountain, which is renowned for its frequent eruptions.

The highlight is the jeep tour to lava fields and recent eruption sites. One traveler mentioned the jeep ride is “a thrilling experience,” giving firsthand access to one of the world’s most active and dangerous volcanoes. Expect around two hours on the lava tour, which is a truly unique adventure to feel the raw power of nature up close.

Return to Yogyakarta

Finally, after a day packed with sights and activities, you’ll be transported back to your hotel. The total duration is approximately 12 hours—long but packed with memorable moments.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

All-Inclusive Entry Fees: For an $125 per person charge, most of the major attractions—Punthuk Setumbu, Chicken Church, and Merapi Volcano—are included. The only exclusion is Borobudur’s entrance fee, which you might want to consider adding if you want to fully access the temple.

Comfort and Convenience: The air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and Jeep rental make a big difference in comfort, especially given the early start and the outdoor activities.

Unique Experiences in One Day: Combining sunrise views, quirky architecture, ancient temples, and volcanic adventure means you get a well-rounded taste of Yogyakarta’s diversity.

Personalized and Private: With only your group participating, you get a tailored experience, avoiding large tour buses and crowds. This makes for a more relaxed, intimate exploration.

Flexibility and Trust: The tour can be canceled 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind before booking.

Practical Tips for Potential Travelers

• Prepare for an early start — the sunrise at Punthuk Setumbu is worth the wake-up call, but bring warm clothing as mornings can be chilly.
• Bring a camera or smartphone — the views are picture-perfect, and you’ll want to capture the moment when the sun rises over Borobudur.
• Wear comfortable footwear — you’ll be walking around uneven temple grounds and hiking up a hill.
• Book in advance — as the tour is popular (booked nearly two months ahead on average), securing your slot early ensures availability.
• Consider additional expenses — while most attractions are included, Borobudur’s entrance fee is extra, and you may want to try local food during the lunch stop.

Final Thoughts

This Yogyakarta tour balances cultural discovery with natural splendor and a touch of quirkiness. It’s a carefully curated day that offers authentic sights, incredible photo opportunities, and a deeper appreciation for this vibrant region. The combination of sunrise at Punthuk Setumbu, the playful Gereja Ayam, and the adrenaline rush of Mount Merapi’s lava tour makes it ideal for travelers craving variety and adventure.

While the early start can be challenging, the stunning landscapes and memorable experiences more than compensate. The knowledgeable guides, smooth transportation, and inclusive entry fees make it a hassle-free way to see the highlights of Central Java in one day.

If you’re after an active, visually stunning, and culturally rich experience, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments with comfortable logistics and a dash of excitement.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, Jeep rental at Mount Merapi, bottled water, and all entrance fees for Punthuk Setumbu, Chicken Church, and Merapi Volcano.

Are the entrance tickets for Borobudur included?
No, the entrance fee for Borobudur is not included, so you may want to purchase that separately to explore the temple fully.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around late afternoon or early evening.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the early start and outdoor activities mean it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and a bit of adventure.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and some cash for optional meals or souvenirs. Layering for the early morning chill is also recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

What if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
Weather conditions can affect sunrise visibility; however, the other attractions like Borobudur and Merapi are still worth visiting. The tour provider can advise accordingly.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic way to experience Yogyakarta. It balances cultural highlights with breathtaking natural views, all wrapped in a comfortable and private package suited for those eager to see the best of Central Java.