Borobudur Full Climb Up Access and Selogriyo Rice Terrace Tour

Exploring Java’s Heritage and Natural Beauty: A Review of the Borobudur Full Climb Up & Selogriyo Rice Terrace Tour

If you’re traveling through Yogyakarta and craving a day that blends awe-inspiring monuments with peaceful rural landscapes, this Borobudur & Selogriyo Rice Terrace Tour might be just what you need. With a reputation for being both comprehensive and well-organized, it promises a full day of cultural exploration and scenic beauty — all for an approachable price.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances expert guidance with authentic local vibes, plus how smoothly the logistics seem to run. The full climb access at Borobudur means you get to experience the monument at your own pace — not just admire it from afar. The visit to the Selogriyo Rice Terraces offers a tranquil, picture-perfect glimpse into rural life, often missed in typical tours. And with local guides who are knowledgeable and engaging, you’ll learn more than just the basics.

One potential consideration is the duration — around 10 hours, including travel and activities, which might be a long day for some. However, the flexible options to focus on just one site add a nice touch if you prefer a shorter experience. This tour best suits travelers who appreciate a well-rounded mix of history, culture, and nature, and who don’t mind spending a full day on the road.

Good To Know

• Inclusive, no hidden fees — with pickup, entrance fees, and gear all included.
• Deep cultural experience — climb up Borobudur and explore Selogriyo, gaining access to historic sites often off-limits in other tours.
• Beautiful scenery — scenic rice terraces and lush landscapes await at Selogriyo.
• Knowledgeable guides and drivers — experts who enhance the experience with stories and helpful tips.
• Flexible options — choose to visit one or both sites, tailoring the day to your interests.
• Great value for just $49 — making it a budget-friendly way to see significant highlights.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Comfort of Included Transportation and Easy Pickup

Starting your day with air-conditioned vehicle pickup makes logistics seamless, especially after a long flight or a busy morning. It alleviates the hassle of navigating local transport, so you can relax and focus on the sights ahead. The driver, who doubles as your tour manager, is often praised for speaking excellent English and sharing insights about Indonesia, adding a personal touch that makes the journey feel friendly and informative.

Visiting Borobudur: A Monument of Mystique and Detail

The main event of this tour is undoubtedly Borobudur Temple. Built in the 9th century, it’s a marvel of craftsmanship with over 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The design in the shape of a mandala symbolizes the universe, and the ascent to the top is both spiritual and physical — walking up stone steps and exploring different levels.

What sets this tour apart is the full climb up access, allowing you to reach the summit freely. You can spend time absorbing the views, take photos, or just marvel at the intricate stone carvings. As one reviewer noted, the guide at Borobudur was incredibly informative, explaining the symbolism behind the reliefs, which adds layers of understanding to your visit. Expect about two hours here, with admission tickets included — so no surprises on the cost front.

Walking Through History at Selogriyo Temple

After Borobudur, the trip continues to Selogriyo Temple — a site that combines history and nature beautifully. This Hindu temple, located on the slopes of Mount Sumbing, is surrounded by lush rice terraces, which are cultivated with traditional methods. The serene trek through these terraces offers a quiet escape from crowded tourist spots, making it a favorite for travelers seeking peaceful, authentic moments.

One review highlights how the photos of the rice terraces are stunning, and the walk itself is an experience, passing through rural landscapes that speak of Indonesia’s agricultural heritage. The temple is a noteworthy sight in itself, but it’s the combination of the ancient stonework and natural scenery that makes this stop special. Expect another two hours here, including the walk and exploration.

Why the Experience Works

The local guide at Borobudur adds a lot of value, sharing stories that deepen your understanding of the site’s symbolism and history. Similarly, the driver’s knowledge about the land and local customs enriches the overall experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The tour’s all-inclusive pricing—covering entrance fees, transportation, and even special footwear as a souvenir—is designed to give you a hassle-free day. The only extras are lunch and personal expenses, which allows you to choose your own meal options if desired. This flexibility, combined with the group discounts and mobile ticket, makes it accessible and straightforward to plan.

What We Think Could Be Improved

While the full-day experience is excellent for those eager to see a lot, it’s quite a long day for some, especially if you prefer more leisurely sightseeing. If you’re pressed for time or prefer shorter outings, opting to visit just one site (either Borobudur or Selogriyo) might be more suitable.

The tour’s maximum size of 99 travelers might seem large, but in practice, it feels comfortably managed thanks to organized pickups and guides. Still, some travelers might prefer smaller groups for a more intimate experience.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Wear comfortable footwear, especially for the climb up Borobudur and walking through rice terraces.
• Consider bringing a hat and sunscreen — the Indonesian sun can be strong, especially at higher elevations.
• The full climb at Borobudur offers the chance to explore at your own pace, so take your time to enjoy the relief carvings and panoramic views.
• If you’re interested in photography, early morning or late afternoon visits provide softer light and fewer crowds at Borobudur.
• Pack a bottle of water; keeping hydrated is important during the long day.
• If you have any mobility issues, check with the tour provider about access, especially at Borobudur, which involves climbing steps.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts who want a meaningful visit to one of Indonesia’s most iconic sites. It’s also perfect for nature lovers eager to see traditional rice terraces and enjoy rural scenery.

Travelers who prefer to keep things simple — with transportation and entry fees included — will find a lot of convenience here. It’s a great value for the price, especially considering the quality of guides and the accessibility of the sites.

However, those seeking a very relaxed, unhurried day might find the length a bit challenging, so consider focusing on just one location if you prefer a slower pace.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, including pickup and drop-off.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all entry fees for Borobudur and Selogriyo are covered, along with full climb-up access at Borobudur.

Can I choose to visit only one site?
Yes, the tour offers flexible durations, so you can opt to see just Borobudur or Selogriyo if preferred.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is about 10 hours, including activities and travel time, but it can be adjusted based on your choices.

Is a guide available at Borobudur?
Yes, a local guide is included at Borobudur, offering detailed explanations and insights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a water bottle, and possibly a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate comfortably; however, those with mobility concerns should check with the provider about access.

Final Thoughts

This Borobudur Full Climb Up & Selogriyo Rice Terrace Tour offers a compelling blend of cultural reverence and natural beauty, all wrapped into one affordable package. The inclusion of full climb access at Borobudur makes it stand out, allowing for a more personal exploration of this ancient monument. Meanwhile, the peaceful walk among rice terraces provides a calming contrast to the grandeur of the temple.

The knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and picturesque scenery make this a practical choice for those wanting to maximize their time in Yogyakarta without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for travelers who cherish authentic, less touristy experiences, and who are eager to learn while taking in some of Indonesia’s most iconic sights.

If you’re after a day of meaningful sightseeing that balances history, natural scenery, and local culture at an accessible price point, this tour deserves serious consideration. Just be prepared for a full day’s adventure and pack accordingly for comfort and enjoyment.

Note: Always confirm your booking in advance, as this tour is popular and usually booked about a week in advance.