Queen of the East (Old Batavia) Walking Tour

Uncover the captivating history of Old Batavia on this enchanting walking tour through Jakarta’s colonial past. Explore iconic landmarks, such as the Maritime Museum and VOC spice warehouses, as an expert guide shares insights into the city’s Dutch heritage. Experience the picturesque Sunda Kelapa Harbour and gain a deeper understanding of how this once-thriving trading hub shaped the region. With essential amenities provided, this immersive three-hour journey promises to transport visitors back in time and leave them eager to discover more about Jakarta’s remarkable transformation.

Key Points

• This 3-hour walking tour explores Jakarta’s Dutch colonial past, focusing on historic sites like Old Batavia, city walls, and spice warehouses.
• Tour includes a visit to the Maritime Museum to see VOC spice warehouses, as well as exploration of the remaining Batavia city wall.
• Tour is led by a professional English-speaking guide and includes entrance fees, mineral water, and a pocket map.
• Overall tour rating is 4.5 stars, with positive feedback on the guide’s knowledge of Dutch East India Company history.
• Tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven surfaces and steps, and participants should be prepared for potential rain during the wet season.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The "Queen of the East (Old Batavia) Walking Tour" allows visitors to explore the historic heart of Jakarta, Indonesia.

This 3-hour tour highlights the city’s former Dutch colonial past, with stops at the iconic Old Batavia (Kota Tua), the remnants of the old city walls, and the spice warehouses once operated by the Dutch East India Company.

Guests will also see the oldest wooden drawbridge and have opportunities for photography at the tour’s picturesque locations.

Led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, the tour includes all entrance fees and provides mineral water and a pocket map for reference.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars, this experience offers an immersive glimpse into Jakarta’s rich history.

Tour Details and Inclusions

What does the "Queen of the East (Old Batavia) Walking Tour" include?

For the approximately 3-hour tour, travelers will have a professional English-speaking guide and all entrance fees covered. The tour provides mineral water and a pocket map.

While meals and travel insurance aren’t included, optional activities are available. Priced from $56.82 per person, the non-refundable tour starts at the Nautical Museum and ends at the Jakarta History Museum.

The tour explores Old Batavia, including the VOC spice warehouse, Batavia city walls, and other iconic photography spots.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and visitors should bring an umbrella during the rainy season.

Meeting and End Points

Travelers will kick off the "Queen of the East (Old Batavia) Walking Tour" at the Museum Oud Uitkijkpost Bahari (Nautical Museum), located on Jl. Pakin No.2 in Jakarta.

The tour concludes at the Jakarta History Museum, situated in Taman Fatahillah No.1.

Unless booking is made within 5 days of travel, confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Confirmations for bookings made within 5 days are provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Guests should note that the meeting and end points are conveniently located, allowing for a seamless exploration of the historical Old Batavia district.

Itinerary and Key Stops

The tour begins with a visit to the Maritime Museum, where guests explore the VOC (Dutch East India Company) spice warehouses at the Museum Bahari and enjoy the scenic views of the Sunda Kelapa Harbour, taking around 50 minutes with admission included.

Next, the tour explores the remaining Batavia city wall near the Eastern Warehouse for 15 minutes, with admission being free.

The tour also includes the following stops:

1. Jakarta Old Town
2. Additional stop (not specified)
3. Additional stop (not specified)
4. Additional stop (not specified)

Tour Reviews

The walking tour of Old Batavia has earned positive reviews from past participants.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars, the tour has received 4 five-star, 2 four-star, and 1 three-star reviews.

Customers praise the knowledgeable English-speaking guide who brings the history of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the old city to life.

Highlights mentioned include exploring the remaining Batavia city wall, visiting the spice warehouses, and capturing iconic photos.

While a few reviewers noted the tour could be improved, the majority found it an enjoyable and informative exploration of Jakarta’s historic Old Batavia district.

Cancellation Policy

This walking tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy. That means if you need to cancel your booking, you won’t get a refund.

To avoid any disappointment, it’s essential to be aware of the cancellation terms:

1. Cancellations made within 5 days of the tour date aren’t eligible for a refund.
2. Bookings can’t be changed or transferred to another date.
3. No-shows will be charged the full tour price.
4. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances, in which case a full refund will be issued.

It’s recommended to review the cancellation policy carefully before booking to ensure the tour fits your schedule.

Accessibility and Recommendations

One important consideration for this walking tour is that it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Visitors will need to navigate uneven surfaces and steps throughout the tour.

Plus, the tour may be challenging during the rainy season from October to April. The guide recommends bringing an umbrella to stay dry.

Children between 3-12 years old are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Tour Schedule

According to the information provided, the walking tour of Old Batavia operates on a specific schedule. The tour runs approximately 3 hours and is available on all days except Mondays when the museums are closed.

The meeting point is at the Maritime Museum, and the tour ends at the Jakarta History Museum.

Additionally:

1. The tour includes a visit to the VOC spice warehouse at the Maritime Museum and a view of the Sunda Kelapa Harbour.
2. Guests can explore the remaining Batavia city wall near the Eastern Warehouse.
3. Mineral water and a pocket map are provided as part of the tour.
4. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and visitors are advised to bring an umbrella during the rainy season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour price varies depending on group size, though the specific group size is not provided. Travelers should inquire about the typical group size when booking to ensure the experience aligns with their preferences.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Participants can take photos throughout the tour. The itinerary includes iconic spots for photography, allowing guests to capture memorable moments from the exploration of Old Batavia’s historic buildings and sites.

Are There Any Restrictions on Food and Drinks?

The tour allows participants to bring their own snacks and water, but it doesn’t provide any meals. There are no specified restrictions on food and drinks during the walking tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s duration can’t be extended, but there may be optional activities available for an additional fee. The standard tour length is about 3 hours and covers the key highlights of the historic Old Batavia area.

How Often Are the Tours Conducted?

The tours are conducted regularly, with the exception of Mondays when the museums are closed. Based on the details provided, the tours appear to be offered on a daily basis, subject to availability.

Recap

The Queen of the East (Old Batavia) Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of Jakarta’s Dutch colonial history. Guests can discover iconic sites, marvel at picturesque harbor views, and gain insights from a knowledgeable guide. This three-hour tour provides essential amenities, ensuring a comprehensive and informative experience for those interested in Jakarta’s rich heritage.