You probably already know that Yogyakarta has so many different sides to its charm. Beyond the deep culture and heritage, the city’s nature is basically one big playground for outdoor activities lovers. It really is a paradise if you’re looking for those ‘tropical’ experiences. From hidden gems to wild adventures, it’s the perfect way to make your holiday in Jogja even more unforgettable.
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1. Canoeing at Kano Mangroves Baros
Ever tried canoeing through a mangrove forest? Canoeing at Kano Mangroves Baros is one of the outdoor activities that accommodate your plan to experience unique spots in town. You glide gently through a calm river that meets directly at the Baros shoreline. The canoeing spots are located in Baros Bantul, and you can reach them by driving from Yogyakarta toward Kretek, about a 1-hour drive.
The vibe there is incredibly peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery, tangled mangrove roots, and nothing but the sound of birds chirping. The route is about 5 kilometers loop, and you’ll have a guide with you the whole time to keep things safe. And, of course, to help you take the perfect photos along the way!
- Operating Hours: 8 AM – 3 PM (closed on Friday)
- Location: Baros, Kapanewon Kretek, Bantul, Yogyakarta
- Instagram: @kano.mangrove
2. Trekking at Turgo Hill
Trekking is a great way to see a different side of Yogyakarta, and Turgo Hill is one of the best spots to do it. It’s sitting at nearly 1,000 meters above sea level, but the trek itself is very beginner-friendly. You’ll be climbing about 1,700 stairs, so it’s a bit of a workout, but the view is worth it.
The sweet spot for visiting is between 6-8 AM for the best views of the forest and Merapi. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hire a guide to hike up before dawn. And if you’re lucky, you might see the glowing lava from Merapi and an incredible sunrise.
Furthermore, keep an eye out for the local monkeys in the trees. Please don’t feed them, and try not to wear anything too shiny or eye-catching, as it might attract their attention. After a long day of trekking, you definitely have to stop by a local stall to try their signature Turgo tea. It’s famous for its deep red color and incredible herbal aroma. If you want an outdoor activities experience that feels truly local, sitting down with a cup of this tea is pretty much mandatory.
- Operating Hours: 6 AM-5 PM
- Instagram: @desawisataturgo
- Location: Turgo, Purwobinangun, Pakem, Sleman, Yogyakarta.
3. Cycling with TowilFiest
For a unique day trip, head out to Kulon Progo for a TowilFiest bike tour. It’s only 40 minutes from the city center and takes you right into the heart of village life, through lush rice fields and scenic landscapes.
The tour was started by Muntowil, a man with a true passion for vintage bicycles. He’s been collecting classic Dutch-era bikes for years, and his love for cycling is exactly why TowilFiest was born. He created this experience to invite people from all over the world to see the beauty of Yogyakarta’s countryside from the seat of one of his vintage bikes.
- Operating Hours: 7 AM – 4 PM
- Location: Bantar Kulon, Banguncipto, Sentolo, Kulon Progo
- Instagram: @towilfiets
4. Trekking Gunungapi Nglanggeran
For a truly unique outdoor activities experience, you have to try trekking at Gunungapi Nglanggeran. It’s an ancient volcanic ridge that offers some of the most majestic panoramic views in the region. Located in Patuk, Gunungkidul, it’s about a 1–2 hour drive from Yogyakarta, but it’s worth every minute.
The trek can be a bit challenging. You’ll find yourself squeezing through narrow stone alleys and navigating some slippery paths. It sits at about 700 meters above sea level, and the view from the top is spectacular. Especially if you catch the city lights at sunrise or sunset. Even as a beginner, it only takes about an hour to reach the summit. A tip from us: make sure to pack some snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated along the way!
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
- Location: Nglanggeran Wetan, Nglanggeran, Patuk, Gunungkidul
- Instagram: @gunungapipurba
5. Camping at Waduk Sermo
Camping at Waduk Sermo is a great outdoor activities option if you love water, quiet nights, and nature. Waduk Sermo is a reservoir in Kulon Progo, surrounded by forest and hills. You can walk around the dam, take boat rides, fish, or just relax near the water.
Waduk Sermo is located in the western part of Yogyakarta and covers more than 152 hectares. It takes about an hour and a half to get there by car. Besides camping, you can also run along the reservoir, go fishing, or have a picnic in one of the many spots nearby.
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
- Location: Remo Tengah Tegiri 2, Hargowilis, Kokap, Kulon Progo
- Instagram: @kalimuncar.waduksermo