Journey Through Indonesia’s Untamed Beauty: Capella Ubud and Kudanil Explorer Present the "Jungle to Sea" Expedition

Source: lla Ubud, Bali

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

April 25th, 2025 – This September, an extraordinary voyage awaits those seeking to venture beyond the ordinary. Capella Ubud, Bali—one of Southeast Asia’s most acclaimed tented retreats—and Kudanil Explorer, an elite private yacht, have unveiled "Jungle to Sea," an eight-night odyssey that promises an immersive journey across two of Indonesia’s most spellbinding regions. From September 13 to 21, 2025, guests will travel in the esteemed company of explorer, filmmaker, and author Dr. Lawrence Blair, whose celebrated career has captured the mysterious heart of the Indonesian archipelago.

Renowned for the Emmy Award-winning BBC series Ring of Fire, Dr. Blair brings decades of wisdom, vivid storytelling, and firsthand adventure to this curated expedition. His tales—woven from encounters with tribal guardians, mystical ceremonies, and uncharted landscapes—will provide a rare and deeply personal narrative backdrop throughout the journey.

The adventure begins amid the lush rainforests of Capella Ubud. Guests are invited to select between two cultural immersions: a traditional jungle trek uncovering Bali’s sacred landscapes, or participation in an authentic water purification ceremony—an ancient ritual still revered by Balinese spiritual leaders. Adding an exceptional layer to the experience, guests will enjoy a private audience with a Balinese High Priest within the opulent surroundings of a royal palace, culminating in a mesmerizing fire dance performance that captures the spirit and soul of the island.

Following a day of leisure—perfect for exploring Ubud’s colorful artisan markets or indulging in a rejuvenating Balinese spa ritual—the journey continues with an intimate, interactive omakase dinner at Api Jiwa, where culinary artistry and storytelling intertwine.

A swift flight to Labuan Bajo introduces the maritime phase of the expedition. Embarking aboard the Kudanil Explorer, an eight-cabin yacht rarely available to non-private groups, guests will embark on a rarefied exploration of the Komodo National Park and the Flores Sea.

Each day offers new marvels: snorkeling and diving among untouched reefs teeming with manta rays and sea turtles; trekking across the dramatic contours of Padar Island; and a privileged encounter with the formidable Komodo dragons, guided by expert rangers. Evenings are reserved for absorbing tales of Indonesia’s rich folklore and hidden histories, recounted under the stars by Dr. Blair himself.

The expedition culminates in a beach celebration on the pristine shores of Banta Island, where pink sands and sunset cocktails offer a fitting, dreamlike finale to a journey that seamlessly melds natural wonder with cultural reverence.

The "Jungle to Sea" expedition will take place from September 13–21, 2025. Rates begin at USD 19,955 per guest or USD 26,600 for two guests, inclusive of accommodation, curated experiences, inland transfers, and all meals. (Rates are subject to a 21% Government Tax and Service Charge.)

Given the exclusivity of the journey and extremely limited availability, early reservations are essential.

To secure a place on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, visit Capella Ubud's Jungle to Sea Expedition page.