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Ultimate Traveller

This eight-part series drops six inexperienced backpackers from disparate social backgrounds in a back street of Jakarta, Indonesia This eight-part series drops six inexperienced backpackers from disparate social backgrounds in a back street of Jakarta, Indonesia This eight-part series drops six inexperienced backpackers from disparate social backgrounds in a back street of Jakarta, Indonesia

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> BALI GROUP TOUR 

Discover the best of Bali on our 9-day / 8-night Ultimate Bali group tour, an immersive adventure packed with excitement and relaxation. Dive into the vibrant culture, learn to surf on world-renowned waves, explore ancient temples, witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, unwind on pristine beaches, snorkel in crystal clear island waters teeming with marine life, and embark on countless other unforgettable experiences!

If you’re seeking the perfect combination of cultural immersion, thrilling adventure, serene relaxation, and endless fun, then this Bali group tour is tailor-made for you! Join us for an unparalleled journey through one of the most enchanting destinations.

> BALI GROUP TOUR

Discover the best of Bali on our 9 day / 8 night Ultimate Bali group tour. Learn to surf, explore temples, see stunning sunsets, eat like a king, chill on the beach, snorkel in crystal clear island waters & much more! If you’re looking for the perfect combination of culture, adventure, relaxation and fun,  then this Bali group tour is for you!

We recommend a travel budget of approx $30-$45/ day (usd) for meals when not included in the itinerary.

We'll organise your airport transfer so your arrival into Bali will be smooth and easy. 

Airport pickup is available from Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) 

The Ultimate Bali group tour starts in Bali on Day 1 of the itinerary at 6pm in the evening. You should arrive into Bali on Day 1 of the itinerary or earlier.  Choose to add additional pre-tour nights when you book online, or chat with our res team to organise extra nights.

Before the tour, make sure you have the necessary travel insurance and Visa to travel to Indonesia. You must provide us with your arrival date, time and flight number to help us organise your airport transfer. 

This Bali group tour is designed for solo travellers, couples and groups aged 18-35 years old. We intend to show you the very best of Bali. Party in Kuta, visit Balinese temples, learn to surf, swim in waterfalls, walk through stunning rice terraces, learn to cook traditional Balinese dishes, climb to the summit of Mount Batur, spot monkeys in the forest, snorkel around paradise islands and party on the beach in Gili T!

Our accommodation has been selected with comfort in mind. All accommodation is twin share in well regarded hotels. Private room supplements are available to book should you prefer a room on your own. 

Whilst our Ultimate Bali group tour is jam-packed with great inclusions, you may choose to add our optional activities to your experience whilst travelling. Our local guides will be available to share information and assist you to add the below activities throughout the itinerary during your free nights. 

• Balinese Dance Performance with Dinner
• Making Offering Program
• Dinner at Natya Gili Trawangan + 1 Cocktail
• Cocktail Mixing Session at Vila Ombak

Departure Transfer: Ultimate Bali ends on Day 10 of the itinerary after you check out of our final accommodation. Some customers choose to stay on in Bali and others continue their travel adventures or fly home. Should you require an airport transfer at the end of the tour, add this to your cart when processing your booking or contact us to help you make onward travel arrangments . 

To book this Bali Group Tour, select your chosen departure date and select if you require additional nights, a private room upgrade or a departure transfer.

Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a 20% deposit.

• Book your flights into Denpasar Airport (not included)
• Organise your travel insurance (not included)

TOUR INFORMATION

Departing Flight - We recommend you book your return flight for after 8pm on Day 10. This is to ensure you have enough time for the return journey from Gili T to Denpasar Airport.

OPEN DATED BOOKINGS

Book open dated when you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked open dated, you can book on any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. 

• 8 nights twin share hotel accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Professional surf lesson
• Balinese Temple visit and Rooftop sunset
• Explore Ubud Waterfalls
• Visit the Monkey Forest
• Explore Rice Terraces
• Local markets & Balinese cooking class
• Tasting at local coffee plantation
• Mt Batur sunrise trek or yoga + massage
• Gili Trawangan guided bike tour
• Gili island boat snorkel trip & BBQ
• Farewell beach party

We recommend a travel budget of approx $30-$45/ day for meals when not included in the itinerary.

We'll organise your airport transfer so your arrival into Bali will be smooth and easy.  Airport pickup is available from Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) 

The Ultimate Bali group tour starts in Bali on Day 1 of the itinerary at 6pm in the evening. You should arrive into Bali on Day 1 of the itinerary or earlier.  

Choose to add additional pre-tour nights when you book online, or chat with our res team to organise extra nights. Before the tour, make sure you have the necessary travel insurance and Visa to travel to Indonesia.

You must provide us with your arrival date, time and flight number to help us organise your airport transfer. 

This Bali group tour is designed for solo travellers, couples and groups aged 18-35 years old. We intend to show you the very best of Bali. Party in Kuta, visit Balinese temples, learn to surf, swim in waterfalls, walk through stunning rice terraces, learn to cook traditional Balinese dishes, climb to the summit of Mount Batur, spot monkeys in the forest, snorkel around paradise islands and party on the beach in Gili T!

Departure Transfer: Ultimate Bali ends on Day 10 of the itinerary after you check out of our final accommodation. Some customers choose to stay on in Bali and others continue their travel adventures or fly home. Should you require an airport transfer at the end of the tour, add this to your cart when processing your booking or contact us to help you make onward travel arrangements . 

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $200AUD deposit.

Tour starts at Bliss Surfers Hotel in Kuta (Mondays at 5pm) Tour ends at Natya Hotel in Gili T (Day 10. Wednesdays at Checkout)

> WHERE WE GO

DAY 1 WELCOME TO BALI

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport & driven directly to our modern surf inspired hotel. Meet the rest of your group & your Ultimate Bali guide for a group orientation and for the welcome dinner! After filling our bellies, we’ll explore some of Kuta’s best nightlife spots!

DAY 2 SEMINYAK

What better way to begin your Ultimate Bali adventure than by hitting the beach in Kuta and learning to surf! We’ll visit one of Bali’s best beginner surf beaches and learn how to ride the waves with the locals. After some free time in the afternoon to explore and shop the busy streets of Kuta, we’ll head to Seminyak for sunset on the beach & another fun night out on the town.

DAY 3 TEMPLES AND CANGGU

On this chilled morning, you’ll start your day by checking out from your hotel in Legian and heading towards the iconic Tanah Lot Temple. After exploring this stunning seaside temple, you’ll work up an appetite and enjoy a delicious lunch at Island Beach Canggu Restaurant, located on the picturesque Batu Bolong Beach. Following lunch, you’ll have some free time to relax and soak up the sun on the beach until 3 pm. Finally, you’ll check in at Koa D’Surfer Canggu, your cozy hotel for the evening, where you can unwind and prepare for the adventures that await you the next day.

Today we will depart for Ubud, the place of “eat, pray & love.” En route, we’ll stop off to explore the hidden waterfall of Tegenungan – absolutely stunning! Continuing on we’ll make a short stop to explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces by foot and lastly meet some of Ubud’s cheeky inhabitants at Monkey Forest.

This morning we’ll head to the local market where we’ll hand-pick fresh ingredients to use during our Balinese cooking class. With the help of our local chef, we’ll cook some yummy traditional Balinese dishes, learning how to create authentic flavours from scratch! Later on, we’ll visit a coffee plantation where you’ll be able to taste local coffees & teas and learn the process behind the infamous Kopi Luwak coffee (aka ca-poo-cino!)

DAY 6 MOUNT BATUR

Feeling adventurous or looking for some rest and relaxation instead? Today you have 2 options. Choose to rise early and trek the active volcano, Mt. Batur. When you reach the summit relax your legs and take in an unforgettable sunrise! Prefer to sleep in? Take part in a mindful yoga class followed by an hour long Balinese massage. The choice is yours! The afternoon is yours to spend as you choose. Zen by the pool, wander around the local markets, try some of the organic delicacies and take in the magical feel of Ubud!

DAY 7 GILI ISLANDS

After breakfast, we’ll head to the harbour and hop on the fast boat to Gili Trawangan, the largest and most popular of the Gili Islands and also every traveller’s favourite spot! Upon arrival, we’ll check-in at one of Gili T’s best hostels and later meet to catch the sunset and drink to our arrival in paradise!

DAY 8 GILI TRAWANGAN

Explore some of the beautiful bays of Gili Islands today. Enjoy crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling in Gili Air and Gili Meno. Experience a unique underwater world while snorkeling. Afterwards, get early dinner at local restaurant before make your way back to hotel in Gili Trawangan.

DAY 9 END OF TOUR

As our time together comes to an end, we’d like to say our goodbyes. Whether you’re planning to extend your stay, book a return transfer to Bali, head back to Kuta, or continue your adventure in Gili T, we’re here to assist you with your onward travels. If you’re considering joining another Ultimate tour, we’d be more than happy to help you find the perfect fit. Safe travels and we hope to see you again soon!

> WHERE WE STAY

Our Ultimate Bali Group tour includes 8 nights accommodation in twin share accommodation. We partner with well reviewed and popular 4 star properties in the areas we visit! You can be assured that after a adventurous day exploring, a comfortable bed is waiting.  Your accommodation features:

• Twin Share rooms
• Double room configurations available for couples
• Free WIFI available
• Buffet Breakfasts daily
• Central Locations
• All properties feature swimming pools
• Upgrades to single and private rooms available at surcharge*

// TRIP GALLERY

> tour faqs.

The Ultimate Bali group tour starts in Kuta and ends on the Gili Islands.

Your tour guide can help you arrange onward travel at the end of the tour, or select the return transfer option when you book.

You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-30-somethings from all over the world, and a local group leader available to you whilst on tour. The Bali Group tour, group sizes vary. You can generally expect to travel with a group of 6-20 people.

You’ll be staying in twin share hotel accommodation throughout the Bali group tour. Booking with a mate? Mention you’re travelling together and we’ll do our best to ensure you’re in the same room. Private double upgrades are available. Download our trip notes for hotel listing.

If you need additional nights before or after your the Bali Group tour, just add them to your booking when you checkout.

Not sure if you need extra nights?  Get in touch to chat with a member of the crew before or after you book.

We recommend you book your return flight for after 8pm on Day 9 . This is to ensure you have enough time for the return journey from Gili T to Denpasar Airport.

Sure! We recommend searching and comparing flight prices using Skyscanner.com – get a flight quote.

Find the best insurance policy for your Ultimate adventure with the help of our recommended travel insurance provider.

Booking is easy! Select your Bali Group tour departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour.

Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable 20% deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date.

The Bali Group tour starts in Kuta and ends on the Gili Islands.

You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-30-somethings from all over the world, and a fully licensed tour guide available 24/7 whilst on tour. The Bali Group tour, group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of 10-20 people.

You’ll be staying in twin share hotel accommodation throughout the Bali Group tour. Booking with a mate? Mention you’re travelling together and we’ll do our best to ensure you’re in the same room. Private double upgrades available.

If you need additional nights before or after your trip, just add them to your booking when you checkout.

Departing Flight - We recommend you book your return flight for after 8pm on Day 9. This is to ensure you have enough time for the return journey from Gili T to Denpasar Airport.

We recommend to bring a debit card / travel money card with you with so you can withdraw cash as you go. ATMs are available throughout Bali. Alternatively, you can bring your local currency to exchange when you arrive, your group leader can help you with where to go. Try to only get out enough to cover you for a few days at a time so you're not carry around lots of cash. The local currency in Bali is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The amount of money you should bring will depend upon the total length of your holiday and your spending habits. It’s very easy to get by in Bali for $300 - $600 a week. This will cover your food, souvenirs and having fun. However, try and budget for the higher end of this – it’s a once in a lifetime trip, so make the most of it!

We like to have a great mixture of some meals included and times for you to experience the local cuisine of Bali! See below for the meals that are included: Welcome Dinner Daily Breakfast 1 BBQ Lunch 1 ice cold Bintang (delicious local beer!)

Bali is great to visit all year round! You'll experience warm to hot temperatures throughout the year with a lot sun to go with that! You may experience a little more rain from November to January, but this can offer a little relief from the heat!

Your 10 day tour will finish on the stunning island of Gili Trawangan. Your tour guides will help with any onward travel while you're in Bali. If you don't have much time afterwards and would like to pre-arrange your return transfer you can add this to your booking, just let us know. When arranging your onward flights (either home or to more adventures!), we recommend departing the day after your tour finishes to make sure you have enough time to travel back to the airport in Denpasar.

Our Ultimate Bali tour is aimed towards travellers aged between 18 to 39 years old looking for adventure, culture and nightlife!

Airport transfer is included in your trip! Just make sure you let us know your flight arrival date, time and flight number at least 14 days before your tour is due to start. Two weeks before your tour we will send you an email with detailed information about your arrival in Bali, airport transfer, accommodation and where to meet your group.

Booking is easy! Select your preferred Bali Group tour departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour.

Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable $200 deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date. Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!

>  BOOK ultimate Bali group Tour

Making your booking.

To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email. If you have a travel date in mind but you’re not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $200 deposit. We’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.  Your final payment is due 45 days before your tour date. A non refundable 3.5% booking processing fee applies to each booking.

BOOK OPEN DATED

Book open dated when you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked an open dated tour, you can book on to any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. Book open dated here.

MEETING OTHER TRAVELLERS

Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates! Join the conversation here .

BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date. Date changes are permitted without additional change fees up until 30 days before your scheduled tour date! Check out our full booking policy  here .

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#TRAVELULTIMATE COMPETITION

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

This Competition is open to all Ultimate Travel customers. Posts must have been published from 01 Jan 2019 onwards, be original content captured or produced by the traveller and must be posted to a personal Instagram account. Qualifying entries must be deemed by Ultimate Travel to reflect the style of Ultimate’s brand and reflect experiences accessible by Ultimate customers. Posts with no association to Ultimate will not qualify. The winning post will be decided at the discretion of Ultimate Adventure Travel Pty Ltd. If you qualify for a prize, your acceptance of the prize consents Ultimate to a worldwide license to use the image within its marketing material and promotional activities. Entries must include the relevant Ultimate Travel hashtags at the time of posting. These must be clearly displayed and not hidden after bulk text or hashtags. Winners must be following Ultimate Travel on Instagram. Ultimate Travel reserve the right to withdraw and end this competition at any time.

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Ultimate Traveller

Alex Zane (Self - Narrator) Chloë Ridley (Self) Mairi Claire Bowser (Self) Chantell Jones (Self) Nathan Dunlop (Self) Andrew Tate (Self) Lewis (Self) Gareth Bray-Whiteoak (Self)

This eight-part series drops six inexperienced backpackers from disparate social backgrounds in a back street of Jakarta, Indonesia

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Ultimate Traveller

The six inexperienced backpackers from disparate backgrounds are dropped in a back street of Jakarta, Indonesia

The tension mounts among the girls, while the boys are looking for adventure

The inexperienced backpackers face their toughest challenge yet, navigating their way to the island of Bali, a 400 mile journey without the help of guide books or maps

The next challenge for the backpackers is to make as many new friends as possible. Sounds easy, but then they'll have to persuade their new pals to drop everything and join them on the island.

The backpackers make their way to Lombok. Taking on the challenge of working in traditional local industry, the travellers taste the real demands of island life and allegiances fade.

Still in pursuit of the prize, the latest travel challenge sees the contestants go native - spending two nights living in the traditional Indonesian villages on the island of Sumbawa

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Indonesia Travel Guide: The Ultimate Itinerary to Bali, Java & Flores

Indonesia, an immense country existing out of 17.000+ islands. A 3-week Indonesia route shows you the stunning diversity of this country. Waterfalls , volcanoes, stunning beaches, architecture, cultures, and delicious food. Feel welcomed by the open-minded Indonesian people. These are the highlights you should see on a 3-week Indonesia trip.

A 3-week Indonesia Travel Guide

This 3-week itinerary through Indonesia is a day-by-day route taking you to the highlights of East Java , Bali , and Flores. Feel free to add more days if you have the time, and note that each day includes a link to a detailed article about that location.

Day 1 – 2: Yogyakarta, Java

The hippest city of Java, Yogyakarta, is a great start to your route through Indonesia. Visit Indonesia’s largest Hindu complex, Prambanan, the underground mosque, and Borobudur. Yogyakarta has an international airport and is connected to many transit airports like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore . Discover all the best things to do in Yogyakarta here .

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

The guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta are available in all kinds of price ranges. Hostels go anywhere from 5 USD – 30 USD per night. Where guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta will start from 12 USD a night, including breakfast.

Hotels in Yogyakarta 😴

Day 3: Train to Malang

Take the early morning express train from Yogyakarta to Malang. It is an 8-hour comfortable train ride that takes you on a scenic route along with small villages & vast rice fields. The express train to Malang is the best way to travel between these cities.

More about: Train from Yogyakarta to Malang

Day 4 – 5: Malang, Java

The higher located city of Malang has a much more comfortable climate. Malang is one of the more surprising locations on your Indonesia route due to its beautiful waterfalls like Coban Putri, Coban Rondo, and Tumpak Sewu , green tea plantations, and the rainbow city Jodipan in Malang , which is a former slum area painted to attract visitors.

About Malang: Things to do in Malang

Where to Stay in Malang

Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. But the only place we really can recommend to everyone is Griyo Sultan Agung Guest House. The train station is a 3-minute walk away, and the colored village is just 5 minutes.

Hotels in Malang 😴

Day 6: Bromo, Java

Start day 6 with an incredible sunrise over the active Bromo Volcano . Now, don’t forget to bring something warm because it will be freezing cold before sunrise. Luckily, this is the only cold place on your Indonesia route.

To get there, you could either leave Malang in the afternoon of day 5 and stay in Bromo village or get out back at midnight on day 6 and drive from Malang. Bromo hotel recommendation:  Pagupon Hotel

Must Read: Bromo and IJen tour

Day 7: Ijen Crater, Java

Visit the Ijen crater in the middle of the night to see the ‘blue fire’ and the sunrise over the aqua blue crater lake. The hike to the top is pretty steep, which makes it quite challenging; however, the view on the crater makes it up to you!

Read more about: Ijen Crater tour

It’s time to follow your Indonesia route to the island of gods; Bali! From the Ijen crater, it is 30 minutes to the harbor where the ferry is waiting for you. Once in Bali, it takes 3 hours to reach Canggu.

Day 8 – 10: Seminyak or Canggu

Seminyak and Canggu are two fantastic towns popular for its surfing, beach clubs, and an incredible choice of restaurants. Take a day to relax and recover because you just did two sunrise mornings on Java. The beach, a coconut, delicious food, and the nearby rice fields will make sure you recover well.

Read: Things to do in Seminyak or Canggu Guide

Where to Stay in Canggu and Seminyak

For Canggu, the most central places are Batu Bolong and Berawa, where there are loads of great cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs close by, as well as great surf spots.

Hotels in Canggu 😴

In Seminyak, stay around Jalan Kayu Aya, also known as ‘Eat Street’, for its great variety of restaurants. This street is also just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Hotels in Seminyak 😴

Day 11 – 14: Ubud, Bali

Next up is the art village Ubud. The area is popular because of the surrounding rice fields, waterfalls, yoga retreats, and Ubud Art Market. Both Tegalalang rice fields and the Monkey Forest in Ubud are things you have to see on your Bali Route .

See: Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Where to Stay in Ubud

Stay in the center of Ubud, where you are close to all the main tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. If you are looking for something a little more rural, there are some great accommodation options close to the rice terraces.

Hotels in Ubud 😴

Day 15 – 16: Nusa Penida, Bali

Incredible white sandy beaches and 200-meter high cliff drops; Nusa Penida is one of the most stunning places on your route through Indonesia. Visit the T-Rex head Kelingking and hike down to one of Bali’s most beautiful beaches: Diamond Beach . Nusa Penida is stunning!

Arrange a taxi + boat transfer from Ubud. It takes about two to three hours to reach Penida Island. On your last night, make your way back to Kuta, Bali, and spend the night near the airport. Book a return flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo tomorrow you are heading to Komodo National Park .

Read: Nusa Penida Trip

Where to Stay on Nusa Penida

The accommodations on Nusa Penida vary from homestays and guesthouses to beautiful bungalows. You can stay anywhere on the island as it only takes an hour to cross from one side to the other.

Hotels in Nusa Penida 😴

Day 17: Labuan Bajo, Flores

Labuan Bajo is a little port town on Flores island. It is the entrance to UNESCO labeled Komodo National Park , home of the Komodo Dragon. Labuan Bajo itself has not much to offer so use it as a stopover before you head on a boat into the park. The flight to Labuan Bajo from Bali only takes 45 minutes.

Things to do Komodo Islands

Where to Stay in Labuan Bajo

There are lots of things to do in Labuan Bajo, so aim to spend at least one night here if you can. It’s a small town, and you are able to walk around in 30 minutes, which means most accommodation options will locate you close to all the main bars and cafes. Alternatively, choose one of the relaxing beach resorts which are a bit further out of the center.

Hotels in Labuan Bajo 😴

Day 18 – 20: Komodo Islands, the highlight of your route through Indonesia

Close-off your 3 weeks in Indonesia with the best part; a 3-day boat trip in Komodo National Park. The park is world-famous for diving and snorkeling where you can expect to see manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, small sharks, and millions of colorful fish. The hiking paths are mind-blowing and don’t forget about the pink beaches, yes pink!

Komodo Islands trip

Day 21: Back to Bali – Fly out

Fly back to Bali and spend your last day along the Bali coastline. We recommend you to spend this time either in Canggu or Uluwatu .

Canggu hotel recommendation: Calmtree Bungalows

Getting around Indonesia

The islands in this Indonesia Route, Bali, Java, and Komodo National Park, are all well connected. Travel easily with a backpack or suitcase via trains, planes, or car. In populated areas, you can also use transport services like Go-Jek.

You can easily arrange transport from your current location in Indonesia. However, we recommend booking your flights in advance.

Java & Bali Transport

Contact our friend Yande below if you are looking for car transport and make sure to tell him you found him through our Salt in our Hair.

When to visit Indonesia

May until October are the best months to visit Indonesia. There is a year-round temperature of 28°C, and although the wet season is between October & April, it can feel a lot warmer. The wet season is not as bad as it sounds. It is a daily heavy and short rainfall, some days cloudy but some days beautiful weather.

How much does Indonesia cost?

Your budget for a 3-week Indonesia route depends on where you stay and eat. A stay at a guesthouse ranges from 6 – 35 USD a night, depending on the popularity of your location. This is similar for eating; Indonesian food ranges from 1 – 3 USD per meal, whereas Western food can go anywhere from 3 – 15 USD per meal.

Costs of Traveling in Indonesia

Travel on a budget in Indonesia, from $220 − $290 USD weekly per person, mid-range $400 − $590 USD, and high-end from $570 − $850 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $15 USD Book public transport
• Food: $10 − $15 USD
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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Komodo Islands: How to Tour in Komodo National Park

9 best things to do in malang, java, jodipan: colorful rainbow village in malang, java.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

This is a great blog post, thanks for putting it together!

We are planning to go to Indonesia between 1st and 18th of June, where we want to visit Malang, Yogyakarta, Ubud, Gilli Air and The Komodo Island. This will be a an active holiday, where we will be moving every few days.

Can I ask you what is the best travel route between Malang -> Ubud ->Gilli Air -> Komodo -> Back to Bali Airport?

I have been researching this and all the travel options seem very complicated, especially between the islands.

Any thoughts are welcomed!

Thanks in advance!

Hi Bogdan! So exciting you’re planning to travel Indonesia. In terms of the best route, the one you have set out works very well. From Malang you can decide whether you want to see Mt. Bromo and/or the Ijen Crater and then hop on a train/bus + ferry (or travel with a a private driver ) to get to Bali. From Ubud, you can travel to Amed or Padangbai to boat to Gili Air. The Gili islands, as well as Lombok both offer tours throughout the Komodo Islands, which typically end in Labuan Bajo. From there, you can easily fly back to Bali. Hope that helps!

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Indonesia Travel Guide

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Updated: 1st December 2021

Hands down, this is my favourite country. Trying to list all the reasons to visit Indonesia  is a near-impossible and never-ending task.

With over 17,000 islands spanning from Southeast Asia across to Oceania, you are spoilt for choice. The ever-popular Bali became a second home for me when I first set out to travel the continent, and I discovered there is a good and a bad side to it. You can find a remote paradise in Raja Ampat, explore some of the world’s most famous temples in Yogyakarta and be amazed at a million other things.

I hope this Indonesia travel guide will help you plan an incredible adventure to these islands.

In this article...

What to See in Indonesia

Erm, e verything? Seriously, this country blows me away, and after spending six months exploring it, I still feel like I have barely scratched the surface.

My personal favourites were Raja Ampat and Komodo for sheer natural beauty, scuba diving and wildlife (think mantas, dragons and dolphins). That said, I even managed to find a soft spot for Jakarta – undoubtedly one of the most slated cities in the travel blogging world.

The top attractions in Indonesia

Cultural Hub of Ubud, Bali Ubud is full of vegan cafes, yoga retreats and lush green rice paddies. There are a million and one  things to do in Bali , but if you want to slow down, a few days in cultural Ubud is a winner. Visit the famous water temples, enjoy traditional dance and explore the famous Monkey forest before taking in the lush green landscape.

Mount Bromo , Java An incredible spot in Java to catch the sunrise, Mount Bromo, with its aggressive smoke and surrounded by mist, is now one of the most popular volcanoes to visit in Indonesia.

Ijen Blue Fire Lake , Java The Ijen sulphur mines are not only a dangerous workplace for underpaid staff but are now a popular tourist attraction thanks to the ‘blue fire’ that is emitted from the lake at night.

Hidden beaches in Bali While many people will stick to the long sands of Seminyak and Kuta, Bali has some incredible and empty beaches just waiting to be discovered. Find my favourite on the link above.

Scuba Diving in Batu Batong Labuan Bajo, with its manta rays, dolphins, and incredible underwater world, is the ideal place to scuba dive or snorkel. The HMS Victory wreck in Bali is another popular dive site.

Tanah Lot Temple, Bali This famous temple along the south coast of Bali draws in crowds, especially for sunset. On a rock slightly out to the ocean, this is a typical tick on any Bali bucket list.

The Nusa Islands These three islands close to Bali (Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida) have grown super popular in recent years as an alternative to Bali, thanks to how quick they are to get to. The islands are full of beautiful coves and relaxed spots, but there are plenty of things to do on Nusa Penida , the largest of the islands, to keep you entertained.

The Gili Islands, Lombok These three spots of sand surrounded by crystal clear waters and huge turtles are a short boat ride away from Bali and an easy beach escape to a slower pace of life.

Indonesia UNESCO list

Borobudur and Prambanan, Yogyakarta In Yogyakarta, known locally as Jogja, you can find two of the most famous temples in the world. The Hindu complex of Prambanan and the towering structure of Borobudur can easily be seen on a one- or two-day visit.

Komodo National Park Home to the Komodo Dragon, a boat trip across the still waters of the bay will take you to this wilderness island, which is protected. The huge lizards are impressive, and a local guide will keep you safe (with a stick?)

Rainforests of Sumatra Sumatra is a wildlife and safari dream. With leopards, tigers, elephants and white rhinos, it is a world away from the beaches of Bali. Due to continued deforestation, this natural habitat is sadly in danger.

Sangiran Early Man Site, Flores The discovery site of a now-extinct human species. Measuring in at only 3.5 meters tall, you can visit the place where the homo floresiensis was discovered, although the remains now live elsewhere.

Indonesia also has the cultural landscape of Bali province, Lorentz National Park and Ujung Kulon Park inscribed on the UNESCO list.

Unique places to visit in Indonesia

Jellyfish Lake, Borneo This inland lake is one of a few in the world where you can swim through the still water, which is full of colourful jellyfish. With a sting so weak that it does not affect humans, this is one of Indonesia’s most unique activities.

Raja Ampat, West Papua Literally translated as four kings, Raja Ampat is billed as ‘the world’s last paradise’, and it does not disappoint. Think cabin living, perfect sands, no phone signal and even tribal islands. It will cost you time and money to get here, but I promise it is worth every cent.

See Wild Orangutans in Borneo Borneo’s forests are stunning, and the chance to see Orangutans in the wild or support the conservation efforts is something not to miss if you venture to Kalimantan. With a whole host of options for staying right in the heart of the action, such as Uncle Tan’s wildlife camp , you are guaranteed to be at one with nature.

Toraja Land, Sulawesi Sulawesi, one of the biggest islands in Indonesia, is full of unique and diverse cultures. One of the more popular places to visit is Toraja Land for its lavish funeral ceremonies, which can go on for days.

The 1000 Islands and Jakarta A short boat ride from the manic capital of Jakarta, the 1000 islands are Indonesia’s answer to the Maldives. Think over water bungalows, undersea tunnel aquariums and the kind of beaches that beg for a coconut and a good book.

Where to stay in Indonesia

I nearly always recommend booking accommodation on Hotels.com due to their great loyalty scheme, but sometimes in Indonesia, and indeed much of Asia,  Agoda  actually has a bigger selection of properties, so it is also well worth checking out when booking your Indonesia accommodation.

With over 17,000 islands, suggesting where to stay in Indonesia is no easy task, but  I have hand-picked a couple of my favourite places I have stayed at, as well as some incredibly unique accommodations  you might want to add to your Indonesia itinerary. If you are heading to the island of the gods, check out my in-depth  where to stay in Bali  guide.

Maya Villas Seminyak, Bali

These stunning villas right in the heart of Seminyak were my favourite treat. With private pools, breakfast cooked in the villa and a tranquil vibe even though you are in the middle of nothing. If you are in Bali for a special occasion, this is a winner.

Seraya Resort Komodo, Flores

The area around western Flores, near Komodo National Park, is stunning. Perfect waters and so much nature. The Seraya resort is a secluded paradise and a perfect base for relaxing and exploring from.

TeraAilan Resort Raja Ampat

I haven’t stayed here, but I am only including it as one of the few places in Raja Ampat you can book online. It took me four days and a few WhatsApp messages to book my accommodation, so if you want to save the hassle, this could be a plan.

Karma Reef Gili Islands

Gili T is happening, Gili Air is quaint, but if you really want to escape it all, then Gili Meno is where to hear. The luxurious yet mellow Karma resort is the perfect escape from Bali for a few days.

Elephant Eco Lodge Sumatra

At the tip of Sumatra, just across from Java, sits Taman National Park with Elephants, Rhinos and Tigers. If you want to stay as close to the action as possible, then check this place out.

Pulau Ayer 1000 Islands, Java

Nope, that is not the Maldives. No one seems to realise an hour from Jakarta sits the 1000 islands. With overwater huts, perfect waters and great diving, this is an ideal chill before taking your international flight home.

Getting to Indonesia

Indonesia is well-served by numerous international airports. Jakarta and Bali are great and the most popular airports, but you can also fly into Bandung, Surabaya, Balikpapan, Aceh, and Makassar, as well as a few other international options.

Given the sheer size of the country, trying to find the best airport to arrive at if you are already in Asia is a great idea. Use a search engine such as Skyscanner, which allows you to search by country rather than the airport, to check what regional options you have.

Getting around Indonesia

Indonesia does not have the best rap sheet when it comes to safety, and this applies to both boats and flying. Always try to take a safe, regulated boat with life jackets, not the cheapest, and before booking a local airline, check the online safety rating to at least be informed. With some 17,000 islands across the archipelago, you might find it easiest to book an Indonesia cruise to explore – or opt to take shorter boat crossings to visit just some of the isles. Still, it’s not that complicated getting around Indonesia , as there are a variety of services and options for all budgets.

Travelling between the islands is possible by various means. The country has a whole host of airlines, and I have personally flown on Garuda (Good and serves god awful meat stuffed doughnuts), Air Asia (Cheap and Cheerful), Lion Air (The airline that managed to miss the landing strip in Bali and landed in the water , oh and they also hit a cow once), Trans Nusa and Batik Air (The last two, I’m not sure I would fly again)

As well as small motor boats and regular ferry connections between the islands. The cheapest (and most awful or entertaining – depending on your view) way to travel is on the Pelni freighter boats, which leave god knows when.

When in the bigger cities such as Jakarta, much of Bali and Surabaya,  Uber is a pretty good bet to get around; GoJek is an Uber for Bike riding, and Bemos are small little-converted buses that you wave down on the side of the road and cram in and even the long-distance trains are a good bet. The more remote you get, the harder it becomes, and at this point, sometimes getting a private driver (and awesome new buddy) is a pretty sweet idea!

Carry an international license when driving and have insurance – also be prepared for the odd unexpected and random ‘fine’.

Indonesia visas and safety

Indonesia is viewed as a relatively safe country, with scams, pickpocketing, and an upset stomach being the most likely culprits of any travel mishaps.

That said, there have been various occurrences of crime, attacks and drinking spiking, so keeping your wits about you, as you would in any country, is essential.

In Bali,  be wary of driving by yourself at night on a bike with a bag in view. Too many of my friends have been pulled off their bikes by their bags. In the dark, your valuables are an easy win to steal with little after-thought for the damage to you when you come off your bike.

Beware of alcohol  that is not legit. Dirt-cheap drinks have been known to be mixed with methanol to dilute them, and there have been deaths from tourists drinking these. The Gili Islands and Bali are two places to be aware of this.

In the Gili Islands and Lombok be aware of minimal if any police presence, although mainly safe there have been more reports of thefts and attacks, particularly in Lombok, from the international community of late.

Indonesia is a Muslim country,  and although Bali is Hindu, be aware of the different laws by region. Parts of Sumatra and other islands have now converted to Sharia law, whilst other islands may have a different majority religion. Be sure to be aware of laws, traditions and dress codes before visiting different parts of the country.

Travel Insurance

No matter where you are travelling, travel insurance is essential. Trust me, I have been mugged and lost all my gear and nearly my health – no matter how much you think something won’t go wrong, it is not worth the risk.

I personally use Insure and Go as I find their premiums fantastic. However, it is a mainly UK company. Another popular option that plenty of my frequent traveller friends use and recommend is World Nomads. Whoever you decide to book with, do it!

Visas and Travel Warnings

To find out the Visa Requirements and current travel advisories for Indonesia relevant to your home country, follow the links here to the official government websites.

UNITED KINGDOM | USA | AUSTRALIA | CANADA

For all other nationalities, please add your nationality in the box before ‘Citizen’ and hit enter to search…

Health in Indonesia

A dodgy stomach, or ‘Bali Belly’, is likely the worst you will suffer in Indonesia, but be sure to take out travel insurance in case you do fall ill. In the more developed parts of the country, hospital access is easy and advanced, and in places such as Bali, you can find Australian-operated hospitals and dentists if you would prefer. Pharmacies are well stocked, and you can usually get most things with just a quick chat (or point!)

Indonesia travel costs

Indonesia is huge and varies from the developed tourist land of Bali to remote tropical islands with a population of less than 50. As such, please take the cost prices as a rough guide only.

Food: Meal for 1 Budget – 20k-40k IDR | Meal for 1 Upscale – 150k-200k IDR

Accommodation:   Double Room Budget – 120k IDR | Double Room Middle – 400K IDR | Double Room Luxury – 800k IDR +

Taxi (1 Mile) – 14k IDR | 1 Beer – 25k IDR | 1ltr Water – 5k IDR | Petrol/Gas 1ltr – 8k IDR | Attraction/Temple Entrance – 10k-400k IDR

Exchanging Indonesia Rupiah

Always shop around when exchanging currency , especially when you are already abroad. If using an ATM, be sure it has not been altered, and aim to arrange an emergency credit card as a backup before you set off on a trip.

If you are looking to exchange money before your travel, then Travelex is a pretty huge international brand with either cash offices or various pre-paid card options. I keep their Cash Passport with me alongside my current account for its ease of re-loading and an emergency backup.

Tours of Indonesia

While arranging tours once you arrive in Indonesia can sometimes prove a challenge, it is by no means impossible, and there are plenty of local operators for you to track down . A bit of hunting around and a lot of haggling later, and you can usually score yourself an adventure like no other. Sometimes a private driver might be required as appose to a group tour but exploring this archipelago is beyond rewarding.

Given the remote nature and the hassle of getting to some of its most beautiful parts, I appreciate not everyone has the time or patience that I do to hop on chicken buses or take the long way around. As such, here are a few tours  you might want to book in advance so you don’t miss out on the best things in Indonesia.

2 Day temple tour from Bali | From $260

Explore two historic temples in Yogyakarta, Borobudur and Prambanan. If you want an easy trip from Bali, with transport arrangements made for you, this is the simplest way to explore some of Java’s most famous sights.

8 Day Raja Ampat explorer | From $1640

They call it the world’s last paradise, and from first-hand experience, I can tell you that is true. This remote land can be a nightmare to travel, but this boat and eco resort tour will take out all the hassle.

Bali Mount Batur sunrise trek | From $57

In central Bali, this volcano is a popular way to kick-start the day. It’s also relatively easy to tackle, and even an unhealthy guy like me nailed it. With pickup and a local guide included, this tour will have you covered.

3 Day Komodo tour from Labuan Bajo | From $340

Home to the famous Komodo dragons and incredible waters, a short flight from Bali will deliver you to Labuan Bajo. With deserted island camping and pink beaches, this takes the hassle out of piecing it together yourself.

Indonesia’s weather & climate

Indonesia is vast and, as such, has various climates and weather cycles across its 17,000 islands. I have been sitting dry on one island before watching a tropical lightning storm happen on the next.

It remains a hot temperature much of the year-round  but also experiences a monsoon season. The best time to visit comes down to what you are looking for, as well as the particular region you plan to explore.

When to visit Indonesia

Peak Season:  When school holidays are on, and everyone takes their summer breaks, June through to September can be really crowded, and most accommodation prices are more than double the offseason.

Shoulder Season: Between April and June and September and October, the crowds usually drop off, and the prices , too. It’s likely the perfect time to visit.

Off Season:  From November to March/April is when it rains the most for much of Indonesia, with Sumatra having a different pattern. Prices drop, and I usually like to visit towards the end of the rainy season.

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I’m a senior and want to spend a month exploring Indonesia. Can you recommend a US company that will put together a personal tour with car and driver and guides.

Hi Barry, Sorry, I’m not sure about a US based tour company.

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Dense jungles populated by tribes and rich sea meadows cropped by gentle dugongs. Sophisticated beach bars where beautiful people sip coconut cocktails and the rippling rice paddies of Lombok…

Sure, Bali’s beautiful beaches may be one of the top things to see in Indonesia, but there is so much more waiting to be discovered in the largest archipelago on Earth. Each of its 17,000 islands boasts a beguiling secret, from real-life dragons in the Komodo national park to secluded beaches made of blushing rose quartz.

So where to start when planning your Indonesian adventure?

Here are our picks of the best things to see and do in Indonesia.

Top Destinations In Indonesia

Things to See in Indonesia

With its fascinating culture, which varies from tattooed yogis offering alternative healing to the ancient animist beliefs of Papua New Guinea’s tribes, and dramatic, volcanic landscapes painted in startling shades of emerald, turquoise and white, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Indonesia.

Get a sense of the country’s ambitious plans for its future in Jakarta, where well-heeled businessmen sip locally grown coffee and glass-clad skyscrapers shoot up as quickly as bamboo cane. Find a complete list of things to see in Jakarta in our handy 48 hours guide .

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From the many art galleries and bohemian cafes of Ubud to Bandung, a romantic tangle of colonial buildings surrounded by lush tea plantations, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re looking for cities to visit in Indonesia.

The Gilis are some of our favourite smaller Indonesian islands. These three idyllic specks off the coast of Lombok are too small for cars, so you’ll be taken to your beach hut by a horse and cart. It’s these cultural quirks, combined with palm-fringed beaches and lively nightlife that makes the Gillis one of our top secret travel gems of Indonesia .

Best time to visit

The best season to visit Indonesia depends on what sort of holiday you’re after and which region you’re most drawn to. Although it’s always warm and humid, the year can generally be split into two seasons, dry (April to October) and monsoon (November to March). However, these months vary from region to region.

One of the best places to visit in Indonesia in August is Nusa Tenggara. This constellation of volcanic islands scattered across the inky canvas of the Java Sea boasts beautiful beaches and a kaleidoscope of cultures. August is also the best time to visit Borneo island for wildlife lovers, as baby turtles are hatching and the trees dripping with durian fruit, a favourite with hungry orangutans.

For diving during the monsoon season, head to Ambon, a jungle-clad region in the Banda Sea with its own unique weather pattern, resulting in crystalline waters from November until May.

Tours and deals

Immerse yourself in the traditions of ancient cultures and discover mind-blowing scenery on an Indonesia tour.

From golf, motorcycle and adventure tours to homestays and diving adventures, there are countless ways to discover Indonesia, and a package tour can really help you get under the skin of this dizzyingly diverse destination.

If you’re looking for adventure in Indonesia, a private 4×4 tour through the Toraja highlands of Sulawesi is a must. The hill tribes’ culture revolves around death, and watching an elaborate funeral procession has to be one of the top 10 most interesting things to see in Indonesia.

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Where to Stay in Indonesia

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Whether you’re looking for castaway escapism or urban chic, we have the perfect Indonesian hotel recommendation for you.

International hotels

Although some of its towns are made up of nothing more than wrought iron shacks painted in rainbow colours, other parts of Indonesia are sleek and sophisticated.

One of the reasons that Bali is such a must visit is the level of accommodation on offer. Clinging to the verdant south coast, with views over one of the best surf breaks on Earth, Alila Villas Uluwatu is the last word in island luxury and you can read our full review here .

Aman resorts are known for their exclusivity and Amanwana, on Moyo Island , is no exception. Spend your days hiking to waterfalls hidden in the jungle and spotting butterfly fish flitting through the reef.

Boutique hotels

Balmy weather year round and abundant natural resources such as palm fronds and bamboo have lead to the creation of some seriously chic boutique hotels throughout Indonesia.

The rooms in Desa Sani are in traditional houses, painstakingly rebuilt and restored so that guests can experience living history. Slow Gili Air is a collection of 10 luxury pool villas, decorated in a rustic yet luxurious fashion that perfectly suits the tousled charm of the Gilis.

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Every region has its specialities. If you’re wondering what to eat in Jakarta, try bebek goreng, fried duck with chilli paste, at Angke Rest . Java is known for its tasty meat skewers cooked over a woodfire and dipped in satay sauce. Roll up your sleeves and get stuck in at The House of Sate an atmospheric spot that’s popular with local hipsters.

Although they’re so small they don’t appear on most maps, the Banda Islands were once the most highly contested territory in the world, because of their endemic nutmeg trees. Today, the cuisine is still marked by the use of nutmeg, cloves and mace. Try nutmeg-jam pancakes at Delfika Cafe.

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Indonesia’s Cultural Experiences & Festivals

Given that Indonesian society is made up of 1,128 ethnic groups, it’s hardly surprising that there are so many famous festivals throughout the country…

Come May, the rice harvest festival in Bali sees shrines to Dewi Sri, the rice god, erected in the paddies and water buffalo decorated with colourful ribbons for the races at Negara. A far more contemporary celebration is Ultra , a Balinese dance festival that brings some of the world’s biggest djs to the island’s coconut groves and idyllic bays every September.

For more contemporary Asian culture, head to Anime Festival Asia , which sees thousands of local fans gather in Jakarta for drawing workshops and live performances on the Akiba stage.

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Let us help you on your next trip! Check our travel guide and tips

Top 20 Facts About Lionel Messi

1. plan when to go.

Post of Indonesia , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Make Sure You Make a Budget

3. understand the visa rules.

4. Plan for the Local Festivals

5. get good insurance, 6. practice good food safety.

Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash

7. Guard Against Theft

8. take care when drinking alcohol.

Photo by Wil Stewart on Unsplash

9. Make Sure You Pack Mindfully

10. exploring beyond bali.

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11. Local Transport Options

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12. Know About Accommodation in Indonesia

13. know all about the indonesian currency.

14. Download Offline Maps

15. drink bottled water only.

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ULTIMATE INDONESIA TRAVEL GUIDE: STEP-BY-STEP ITINERARY PLAN

WHAT TO SEE IN INDONESIA? BEST ISLANDS TO VISIT IN INDONESIA? BEST TRAVEL PLAN FOR INDONESIA?

Indonesia is home to more than 18,000 islands and 270 millions people. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination among tourists due to the cheap local food and affordable accommodation.

Planning a trip to Indonesia is already challenging enough since you have to choose which islands to visit, how to get there, when is the best time to visit it, etc.

To help you prepare for the journey of your lifetime, we’ve put together a brief travel guide that highlights all you need to know to travel to Indonesia.

1. Determine Your Itinerary

To start with, you can find unique itineraries here and explore Indonesia at its finest by booking an Indonesia cruise. This kind of cruise is best for anyone who wants to explore distant destinations and enjoy the diversity of cultures, traditions, and customs.

Plus, you will have the itinerary planned from day one. If you are visiting Indonesia for the first time, this could best way to start! It will avoid the headache of all the planning and preparations.

2. Choose Which Islands To Visit

Carefully select what you want to see during your trip to Indonesia. It’s important to determine in advance which islands you will visit and how you will get there. Here are several suggestions from our side:

Bali is best known for its beautiful Hindu temples , rice terraces, and traditional arts. It’s a popular destination among tourists due to the breathtaking beaches and authentic temple art. If you want to experience Bali at its best, we recommend visiting Lovina, an area filled with small fishing villages and green rice terraces.

READ: 10 MOST INCREDIBLE HOTELS IN BALI

Lombok is an island located close to Bali in Indonesia. This island is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the beautiful beaches. Indeed the island attracts less tourists than Bali, so you will have more chances to have some beautiful places all for yourself!

READ: 18 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO SEE IN LOMBOK

Sumatra is one of the less-visited islands in Indonesia and undoubtedly one of the best. It’s known for its volcanic lakes, wild jungles, and orang-utans. In Sumatra you will witness the beauty of the exotic wildlife and untamed jungle life.

Along the shores of Toba and Mininjau, you can take a short hike or visit the neighboring island of Java.

Komodo Islands

Komodo Islands are the home of the legendary K omodo Dragons , incredible creatures that are direct descendants of the dinosaurs and the closest visually similar to them.

These islands are also known for their snorkeling and scuba diving spots, as well for their marine biodiversity.

3. Consider Options That Fit Your Budget

The next step is to determine your budget and check whether the options you had in mind will fit your budget.

First of all, you need to search for the most affordable flight options and have in mind the average price. We recommend to check the cheapest options here .

4. Learn More About Indonesia

Since you will be visiting an exotic and distant country, it’s recommended that you learn more about their customs and have an idea of the closest cities, bus lines, currency, food, and visa requirements.

To make your experience more enjoyable, you can even learn some Indonesian phrases.

And regarding the health requirements, always carry wet wipes and antibacterial hand washes with you, use sun protection regularly, drink plenty of water and take insect repellent with you.

5. Check The Safety Measures

Indonesia is relatively safe, so you can travel freely without worrying about your safety and whereabouts.

However, be aware of pickpocketing and street crime , especially in busy areas.

6. Travel Essentials

Before you embark on an Indonesian adventure, there are a few things to know.

First of all, you might need a visa to visit Indonesia, so make sure you check the requirements.

Take enough cash with you because some places might not accept cards. Bring pocket wifi or buy an eSim card since you might not always have a reliable internet connection in public spaces. You can buy very cheap eSim card here .

Make sure to pack plug types C and F adapters, or consider a universal travel adapter as a substitute.

Last but not least, purchase travel insurance to ensure your belongings are safe.

Are You Ready?

Now the main question is – Are you ready to make your trip the adventure of a lifetime?

Hopefully, we’ve helped you plan your trip a bit better. And if you are still not sure whether you want to visit Indonesia, keep researching all the amazing things you can see in this wonderful country. The above video will give you a glimpse of what to expect during a trip to Indonesia.

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Indonesia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Indonesia Travel Guide (Tips + Secrets • 2024)

As a vast archipelago nation composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is one of the most fascinating countries in the world.

Somehow they all come together across a vast distance to form one nation. (The country’s motto is  Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,  meaning “Unity in Diversity,” and there’s perhaps no better way to summarize Indonesia.)

With such unique cultures and landscapes, each island feels like its own country. Honestly, with so much to do and see in Indonesia, it’s difficult to narrow down an itinerary while backpacking Indonesia, which is why we’re here to help!

Backpacking Indonesia is an adventure like no other. For starters, you can climb active volcanoes, encounter orangutans in the jungle, visit ancient temples, and enjoy world-class diving. All along the way, you’ll be welcomed in by some of the most friendly people out there while you enjoy the varied and delicious cuisine. Best of all,  you can easily backpack Indonesia on a budget.

I’ve spent nearly six months traveling in Indonesia now (four months of that I was living in Bali) so I have plenty of knowledge bombs to drop your way!

Let’s get to it.

Why Go Backpacking in Indonesia?

While Bali has been attracting tourists en masse for decades, there are many more beautiful places to see in Indonesia than this one most famous island. Bali is popular for a reason – and you should most definitely visit Bali – but backpacking Indonesia is all about getting out there and discovering the other islands.

You can’t see it all in one trip though, so it’s best to view your first trip to Indonesia as exactly that. Trust me, you’ll be planning your next one before it’s even over. After reading this in-depth Indonesia travel guide, you’ll be ready for the trip of a lifetime.

As I mentioned earlier, Indonesia is made up of 17,000 islands, so there’s no shortage of things to do in Indonesia. I’ve broken down some of Indonesia’s best and most popular places to visit below.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Indonesia

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Below I have mapped out 5 epic itineraries that are meant to be added on to one another. Since many people only have a week or two to visit Indonesia, I have mapped out how to spend your time the most efficiently. Many backpackers receive a 1-month visa on arrival, so I also have an itinerary for how to spend 4 weeks in Indonesia.

Finally, it is possible to get an 8-week visa ahead of arrival. If you are lucky enough to have 2 months, check out the fifth itinerary! With thousands of islands, you can truly spend a lifetime exploring Indonesia. These itineraries will at least keep you busy for weeks on end.

Backpacking Indonesia 10-Day Itinerary #1: Exploring Bali

If you’ve got 10-12 days for Indonesia, you’re best sticking to one island. There is plenty to do. Many people spend their entire month-long visa on Bali and it’s never enough – the island is pretty big and there’s a ton of variety!

I’d recommend spending your first couple of nights exploring the Canggu area and enjoying the beach and nightlife. Many backpackers get stuck here, and never leave, but don’t neglect the rest of beautiful Bali! From there, head up to Ubud for a few nights and be sure to include some adventures, like climbing Mt. Batur for sunrise, exploring the rice plantations, visiting the Monkey Forest, and getting your yoga on.

Add a couple nights in Amed for diving and snorkeling, and then loop back around to the south. Chill out in the laid-back town of Sanur . Uluwatu’s surfing beaches are the best breaks in Bali for more advanced surfers and boasts a stunning coastline and pretty good, yet chill, nightlife.

Many a flight has been missed and many a visa extended by travelers visiting Bali. It’s the kind of place that just sucks you in and makes you never want to leave. I should know, as I ended up moving there for a year on my third visit since short trips just weren’t cutting it!

• Where to Stay in Ubud
• Nusa Lembongan Ultimate Travel Guide
• Best Things to Do in Amed
• Nusa Penida Utimate Travel Guide

Backpacking Indonesia 2-Week Itinerary #2: Java + Bali

Many people will fly into the capital, Jakarta before backpacking Indonesia. Rather, you can immediately catch a flight to Bali, travel to Yogyakarta to explore for a couple of days. Here you can visit the famous Borobudur Temple  and  Prambanan Temple . Make sure to explore the volcano Mt Bromo too.

With an extra week, head to Bali and complete the first itinerary!

Backpacking Indonesia 4-Week Itinerary #3: Bali to Flores

After 2 weeks exploring Bali, travel to the beautiful area of Lombok  and the Gili Islands too, just a couple hours by boat away. Each of the three islands has a totally different vibe. You can reference the Lombok section below.

Next, we head to Flores , where you can arrange trips to Komodo National Park  to see the infamous komodo dragons.

Backpacking Indonesia 8-Week Itinerary #4: Indonesia Highlights

If you are able to snag an 8-week visa for Indonesia, the world is your oyster. You can start by following the Bali itinerary and merging with the Flores route. You can also catch a flight to Sumatra.

Here, visit the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang  and the stunning Lake Toba.

Also on tap here is world-class diving at Pulau Weh . This tiny island is located at either the beginning or end of Indonesia, depending on which way you’re looking at the map. You’ll have to pass through the town of Banda Aceh to reach here, which is the only place in Indonesia that has Sharia Law in place. This definitely isn’t the place to come party while backpacking Indonesia, but the juice is worth the squeeze if you get to Pulau Weh.

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

An ideal hub for Digital Nomads and backpackers, this very special hostel is now finally open…

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool 😉

Backpacking Bali

Let’s start out with the crown jewel of backpacking in Indonesia – Bali . The Island of the Gods has been drawing in tourists by the thousands for decades now, who flock here for waves, spirituality, beautiful scenery, and epic nightlife. This makes for an interesting mix of surfers, yogis, gap year travelers, digital nomads, honeymooners, retirees, and party animals.

Although it may look tiny on the map, Bali is actually quite a large island with many different areas to explore . There’s much more to it than the beaches, including terraced rice fields, several lakes, and a couple of active volcanoes. Some choose to base in one town and take day trips to see more of the island, while others prefer to bounce around and stay in a few places. Whatever you do, make sure you get out of that beach chair to see more of the island than the super touristy areas.

You’ve got so many options for things to see and do that you could easily spend all 30 days of your visa-free stay exploring Bali and do something different on every one of them. Go surfing down on the Bukit peninsula , balance your chakras in Ubud , dive in Amed , party in Seminyak , or take a yoga course with the Santosha Institute on Nusa Lembongan .

Above all else though, you will want to chill out in my favourite spot for backpackers – Canggu .

If you are keen to get, or stay fit on your holiday – check out  WanderFit Retreats in Bali – these are run by my friend Will Henke – one of the best coaches I’ve ever trained with. WanderFit are pretty different from other fitness retreats in Bali in that you get insane bang for your buck…

One of the best places to base yourself for your Bali stay is Canggu . This beach town just north of Seminyak has been gaining in popularity in recent years, especially amongst the surfer and digital nomad communities. Here you’ll find smaller crowds than the other beach towns, so you won’t have so much competition for the waves. There are countless options for accommodation, yoga, dining, and nightlife, and a whole bunch of other awesome things to do in Canggu .

Luxury villa accommodation, daily training from awesome coaches, surf lessons, snorkelling with manta rays, hikes and plenty of excursions to check out Bali’s best-known attractions and best kept secrets – what’s not to love!

Canggu is fast establishing itself as the ultimate fitness destination of Bali and is lined with awesome yoga studios, Crossfit boxes (I work out at Crossfit Wanderlust – come say hey), quality massage parlours and an insane variety of healthy restaurants and cafes – my favourites are: Motion Cafe, Bali Buda, Nude and Savage Kitchen.

Tribal Bali – is hands down one of the coolest hostels we’ve ever seen. With epic food, legendary coffee, awesome cocktails and a dedicated co-working space, this is the place where you want to be when visiting Bali. Forget hunkering down in a quiet cafe, stop by for a day of working in a spacious and breezy tropical space filled with other nomads. You can even book a hostel bed or private room to have business, adventure and sleeping all in one place!

There are three smaller islands off the southeast coast that are a part of Bali. A short boat ride can bring you to the Nusa Islands – Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida. Here you’ll find some absolutely stunning viewpoints, chilled out beaches, and some amazing snorkelling/diving opportunities. It’s the perfect place to wind down your Bali trip in style.

If you find yourself in booking a stay in Kuta, Bali and you’re feeling a beach break, where should you turn to cool down?

Waterbom Bali is the place to go if you fancy epic waterslide plunges from fierce heights. Channel your inner-child and go all out on 22(!) world-class water slides. You might forget you’re actually in Bali until you realize the jungle isn’t too far away.

If you are planning a trip there, Voyagin is currently offering a discount for readers, using the code backpackerwaterbom. Follow the link if you’re interested in a waterpark adventure extravaganza .

Backpacking Lombok

While Bali really is an incredible place, you can’t visit a country of 17,000 islands and see just one of them. For those on a time crunch, the best bet is to add one of Bali’s neighbors to your backpacking Indonesia itinerary. Far and away, the most popular choice is Lombok. This is thanks mostly to the Gili Islands, three tiny specks of sand that are free of motorized vehicles and home to some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in the world.

Of the three Gili islands, Gili Trawangan is known as the party island, Gili Meno as the honeymooner or family-friendly option, while staying in Gili Air  is a nice mixture of the two. Thanks to the boats that bounce between them, it’s totally feasible to visit all three in just a few days and see for yourself which one you like the best.

Since Lombok is a prime scuba diving destination, you might have come here just for amazing dive sites. In addition to diving in normal daylight hours consider going on a UV-light-assisted night scuba dive . A whole other set of sea creatures are active at night. This is your chance to see them in action.

Gili T definitely has the most options for accommodation, dining, and nightlife, so you may want to just base there. However, you’ll still find lots more awesome hostels around the Gili Islands

While traveling on Lombok, you can also climb Indonesia’s 2nd tallest volcano. Trekking Mt. Rinjani is an incredible experience that should be high on your list when backpacking Indonesia. These treks can be done over 2-5 days depending on whether or not you want to get to the summit and how quickly you want to move.

Down south, you’ll find what I like to call the “good Kuta.” Kuta, Lombok is way better than its tourist trap of a cousin over on Bali, and it’s the perfect town to base yourself for a few days of beach hopping, surfing, and chilled out nights between the days of exploring Lombok’s attractions . Lombok is also home to several epic waterfalls, so ignore TLC’s advice and do go chasing waterfalls!

Backpacking Java

With over 140 million residents, Java is home to over half of Indonesia’s population. It’s also the most populous island in the world. Here you’ll find the chaotic capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta  (which is often jokingly referred to as the Big Durian). Just like the infamous stinky fruit, it takes a bit of getting used to.

There’s enough to see and do in Jakarta to warrant a couple of days on your itinerary, but the real fun lies outside of the big city. The best place to call home in the Indonesian capital is Six Degrees Hostel. The best feature of this hostel is its rooftop garden, where you can do sunrise yoga and enjoy sunset cocktails.

Perhaps the most popular trip for backpackers on Java is visiting Mt. Bromo and Kawah Ijen . While all tour guides and travel agents in Indonesia can set this trip up for you, it’s much more fun and rewarding to do on your own. Try several modes of public transportation, fly across the Sea of Sand on the back of a local’s motorbike, and get up at 3 AM to take in the sunrise about Mt. Bromo.

From Mt. Bromo, a few more rides and another middle of the night hike brings you down into the crater at Kawah Ijen to see the amazing blue fire burn and the impressive sulfur miners hard at work. It truly is the adventure of a lifetime.

If the prospect of doing all of this on your own is too much to contemplate or your are simply short on time hiring a guide is certainly easier. If you actually want to meet some of the miners and learn about what life is like working on the mountain going with a guide is a good way to do that.

While traveling across Java, you’ll definitely want to spend a few days of your travel itinerary visiting Yogyakarta and the surrounding area. This city is considered the cultural and artistic heart of Java and is a fascinating place to visit. Here you can visit a palace and water castle, see a traditional wayang kulit shadow puppet shows, and shop for some fly batik shirts.

Within just an hour outside of town, you can visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple at Borobudur, as well as a 9th-century Hindu temple at Prambanan. Base yourself at the Patio Yoga  in Yogyakarta which is set in a beautiful Dutch colonial house and even has a plunge pool.

Backpacking Flores

The name of this island means “flowers” in Portuguese, and it’s not the only influence remaining from the 16th-century colonists. It’s the one place in Indonesia where a majority of the people are Catholic, meaning you’ll see a church in most villages rather than temples or mosques. Most backpackers come here to chase dragons – Komodo dragons, that is.

The town of Labuan Bajo is the most touristy part of Flores, as it’s home to an airport and is the launching point for multi-day trips around Komodo National Park . In town, you’ll want to stay at the excellent Ciao Hostel . Thanks to its hilltop location, this place has amazing views from their terrace.

As far as the tours go, it’s easy to book a trip in town, which should include snorkeling, stops at several beaches, and of course a visit to the home of the famous Komodo dragons. While this trip may put a dent in your backpacker budget, it’s one worth splurging on. How much you pay depends on a lot of things, like whether or not you get a cabin on board or are just sleeping on the deck. 

Prices for a 3-day tour usually run around $150-175 at the lower end of the spectrum. It’s not necessary to book anything in advance. Just show up in town and pop into a few agencies to compare prices and quality.

Rather than simply flying right out of Labuan Bajo, you should stick around and see what else this gorgeous island has to offer. Near the town of Ruteng , you can explore the amazing spider-web rice fields and visit a real Hobbit Cave. Bajawa is a great place to begin trekking trips to isolated villages such as Wae Rebo.

Here, you’ll also find the three-colored lakes of Mt. Kelimutu , which are best viewed at sunrise. On the other side of the island, you can wind down with some fantastic snorkeling and diving in Maumere.

Backpacking Sumatra

Wild and rugged are two words that come to mind when describing the massive island of Sumatra. Here you’ll find one of the world’s richest ecosystems. If you’re backpacking Indonesia to get out in nature, you should travel in Sumatra.

Perhaps the most popular thing to do in Sumatra is visit the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang . (Did you know that their name is actually derived from Indonesian? It’s a combination of the words orang (person) and hutan (forest) – “person of the forest.”)

Also on tap here is world-class diving at Pulau Weh . Under the water, you’ll find tons of marine life, shipwrecks, and even underwater volcanoes.

This tiny island is located at either the beginning or end of Indonesia, depending on which way you’re looking at the map. You’ll have to pass through the town of Banda Aceh to reach here, which is the only place in Indonesia that has Sharia Law in place. This definitely isn’t the place to come party while backpacking Indonesia, but the juice is worth the squeeze if you get to Pulau Weh.

Another highlight of Sumatra is the stunning Lake Toba . This is the highest volcanic lake in the world, and it’s the perfect place to relax amongst beautiful surroundings for a few days. In Sumatra, make sure you sample the famous Masakan Padang (Padang cuisine). You could definitely dedicate an entire trip just to this fascinating island.

While there isn’t a hostel scene on Sumatra, there are plenty of guest houses and hotels where you can stay.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Indonesia

As a majority of travelers only visit Bali, it’s not hard to get off the beaten path while backpacking Indonesia. As soon as you hop on that ferry to Java or Lombok, although they still have fantastic hostels , the numbers of tourists rapidly decrease and your experience becomes far more local. Leave the tourist hubs on these islands (Yogyakarta and the Gilis, respectively), and you’ll barely see another bule (“foreigner” in Indonesian).

In fact, don’t be surprised if locals suddenly want to take your picture or greet you with a cheerful smile, and a “Hello, Mister!” Once you’re off Bali, you’re definitely somewhat of a novelty in Indonesia.

Even on Bali, it’s really not hard to escape the crowds. Most tourists tend to stick to the Kuta-Legian area or Ubud , leaving these places to feel a bit Disney-esque. With your trusty motorbike, you can be at a deserted beach or wander amongst the rice fields in no time.

Many like to bemoan Bali as being “too touristy,” yet never leave the tourist bubble. That means there’s still plenty of incredible places basically devoid of tourists here. You’ve just got to poke around!

Those really looking to get off the beaten path can travel to some of the lesser-known islands. Visit Sulawesi , Sumbawa , or Papua and you may go days without seeing another tourist.

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1. Explore Bali

There’s a reason Bali is Indonesia’s most popular island. Bali is safe , Balinese culture is amazing, plus you have beaches, surf, diving, and beautiful scenery right at your door step.

2. Go Scuba Diving

Indonesia is home to some of the best scuba diving in the world. Hard-core divers will want to make a trip to Raja Ampat and you can expect crystal clear waters as you’d find if you’ve been backpacking in the Philippines .

3. Check Out the Last Remaining Dragons

You can see komodo dragons in the wild from Flores/Komodo National Park area.

4. Chill out or Party on the Gili Islands

These beautiful beaches are conveniently close to Bali, but have a completely different atmosphere since no cars are allowed on the islands! There is great diving here as well!

5. Trek in the Sumatra Jungle

Sumatra, part of Borneo is home to some of the last remaining orangutans in the world.

6. Chase Waterfalls

Every island has some seriously impressive waterfalls . Just ask around and go on an adventure!

7. Join a Yoga Retreat

Yoga is especially popular in Ubud, but you can find fitness classes and yoga retreats all over Bali .

8. Climb Mt. Bromo

This epic volcano is located on Java.

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As with so many things in Indonesia, accommodation really depends on the island. You’re obviously going to have far more choices on Bali than you will on Papua, for example.

On Sumatra, Java, Bali, Lombok, and Flores, you have plenty of choices for hostels. In tourist hotspots such as Legian and Ubud, you can’t swing a dead cat and not hit a hostel.

A bed in a dorm typically goes for between $10-15 a night. Just because you’re backpacking Indonesia doesn’t mean you have to cram into a room with ten strangers, though. There are tons of great locally run guesthouses and hotels if you’d like a little more comfort and privacy.

For the most part, you can just wing it and find accommodation on arrival. The only time you may want to book something in advance is if you’re visiting Bali over Christmas and New Year’s, as this is an incredibly busy time. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation, villas in Lombok and Bali are surprisingly cheap if you book in advance too.

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Backpacking Indonesia can certainly be done on a shoestring budget thanks to its low costs of living . Once again, it all depends on where you go and what your style is. If you’re trying to cram a lot into one trip by hopping around to several islands, your biggest expense will most definitely be transportation. All of those flights, local buses, ferries, motorbike rentals, and cab rides eventually add up.

You’ll want to do a bit of research into the potential costs for transportation before planning a trip that covers several islands.

Hostel beds typically go for between $10-15 a night. You can definitely find cheaper if you dig hard enough, especially further away from the really popular tourist areas. Couchsurfing isn’t really huge in Indonesia, but you can give it a shot and maybe find someone to crash with.

When it comes to eating, your money goes a long way in Indonesia. Stick to the local  warungs  and you can enjoy a delicious, filling meal for just a few bucks. There’s also plenty of mouth-watering street food for even less. Even in the popular Bali beach town of Sanur, you can get several dishes from the night market for less than $5.

One thing that can easily burn a hole in your budget in Indonesia is booze. In a Muslim-majority country that’s not exactly keen on drinking, there are large taxes levied on alcohol. You’ll pay over $10 for a cocktail or a glass of wine if you insist on drinking the imported stuff. Best to stick to the local Bintang beer, which can be had for just $2-3 a bottle.

Those spending a majority of their time on one or two islands with a rented bike will save a lot. It also helps if you can rent for longer periods of time. Most shops in Bali charge around $5 a day for a motorbike, but I was able to rent one for only about $50 a month! With a full tank of gas costing only around $1, you can cover a lot of ground without burning a hole in your wallet if you’ve got a long-term motorbike rental.

If you visit just one or two islands, get around with a rented bike, stick to hostels, and eat local food, you can definitely pull off backpacking Indonesia on around $25-30 a day . Those looking to see and do a bit more, stay in private rooms and add some big ticket items like diving or trekking may want to budget more like $75 a day.

A Daily Budget in Indonesia

Money in indonesia.

The official currency of Indonesia is the Rupiah (IDR). As of January 2018, the exchange rate is about 13,300 IDR for $1. It has been floating between 13,000-14,000 rupiah to the dollar for the last couple of years.

One obnoxious thing about money in Indonesia is that the largest Rupiah note is only 100,000, or about $7. When making big purchases, you’ll end up handing over a massive stack of bills!

ATMs are generally easy to find in Indonesia, especially in Bali where they want you to have plenty of money. You’ll also find plenty of currency exchange places here and in other tourist hot spots. A word of caution – avoid the money changers in Kuta like the plague. They’re notorious for scamming tourists, and there are plenty of legit money changers out there. No matter where you change your money, make sure that you’re the last one to count it.

When using ATMs, try to stick to ones that are actually attached to a bank. Random ATMs on the street or in convenience stores have been known to skim people’s information.

Thankfully, it’s quite easy to use a credit card in the big cities and popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. Just be sure to notify your bank before traveling and find out if there’s any fee associated with using your card abroad. That being said, if you’re really backpacking Indonesia and are going to more remote destinations, cash is very much king.

Tips for Visiting Indonesia on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst backpacking Indonesia I recommend sticking to the basic rules of budget adventuring:

• Camp:  Camping isn’t exactly huge in Indonesia, but if you’re adventurous and are getting off the beaten path, it can definitely be an option. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking . An easier option is to just bring a good camping hammock . Even if you can’t find a place to sleep, it’s great to string up for chilling out.
• Eat local food:  Why waste a bunch of money on mediocre versions of Western food when you can eat the local stuff for so cheap? In Indonesia, a big plate of nasi campur with some meat or seafood, plenty of veggies, and rice will only cost about $2-3. If you’re on a real tight budget; it’s worth taking a portable stove – check out this post for info on the best backpacking stoves.
• Hitchhike:  It’s not that hard to hitch a ride in Indonesia, although you’ll definitely want to pick up a bit of the language first. The thumb isn’t used to signal that you want a ride here. Rather, you should use your right hand to wave as if you want them to slow down. Don’t use your left hand, as it’s considered dirty and offensive.  Hitchhiking is an ace way to keep your transport costs down.
• Pack a travel water bottle: Save money – and the planet – every day!

Why You Should Travel to Indonesia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC!

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Generally speaking, there are two seasons in Indonesia – wet and dry. In most parts of the country, the dry season lasts from May to September. Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit. Consider visiting in either May or September if you want to try and avoid the massive summer crowd, especially on Bali.

Most of the rain in Indonesia falls from October to April, with some regional variations. Those looking to do some serious trekking or diving may want to try and plan a trip in the dry season. There’s no need to let a little rain spoil your trip, though. Rain usually comes in quick downpours and you’ll still enjoy several hours of sunlight.

Festivals in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world with A TON of different kinds of celebrations. We’re talking traditional, cultural, religious, and even tribal festivals!

Remember that Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, which means that Islamic holidays will be widely recognized. Bali is of course the most notable exception: on account of being mostly Hindu, there is a completely different set of festival celebrations in Bali . But the same could be said for every other island in Indonesia!

• Pasola Festival (March) – Knights in Indonesia! Grand jousting tournaments held on Sumba Island. Less armor though and more spear throwing.
• Nyepi   (March/April) – Celebrates the New Year and expulsion of evil spirits from Bali. On the eve of the festival, there is a parade of colorful, paper mache giants, an event referred to as the  Ogoh-Ogoh . On the actual day of the new year, everyone is silent and remains in their home as a means of escaping the evil spirits.
• Waisak (April) – National celebration of Buddha’s birth. The largest gathering is organized at Borobudur.
• Galungan   (date varies) – Festival dedicated to the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated in Bali with locals installing elaborate bamboo flags on the streets. Follows the Balinese calendar ( Pawukon ), which is 210 days long.
• Ramadan (May/June) – The great fasting of Muslims. Food and drink are only consumed at night. Dates change every year in accordance with the Muslim calendar. Ends with another celebration, Eid Al-Fitr .
• Baliem Valley Festival (August) – Taking place in Papua, a very unique festival that is meant to expose outsiders to remote and local tribal cultures.
• Yadnya Kasada (date varies) – The Tenggerese, who are a minority people that practice Hinduism in East Java, pray to Mt Bromo and its neighbors for good luck and not to explode.

What to Pack for Indonesia

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full  Indonesia packing list .

Generally, Indonesia is a safe country to visit, and you shouldn’t have any problems. As always, be wary when you’re out late drinking, but this advice should be practiced in any country.

Speaking of drinking, there have been fatal incidents of tourists drinking straight methanol versus alcohol, especially on party islands like Gili. Because Indonesia is predominantly Muslim and alcohol is expensive, many bars have been caught making their own alcohol, which ends up poisoning its drinkers. You safest bet is to drink beer instead.

For more safety tips for travelling Indonesia, you should:

• Check out  Backpacker Safety 101 for tips and tricks to stay safe whilst backpacking.
• Pick yourself up a backpacker security belt to keep your cash safe on the road.
• Check out this post for plenty of ideas on ingenious ways to hide your money when travelling.
• I strongly recommend travelling with a headlamp whilst in Indonesia (or anywhere really – every backpacker should have a good head torch!) – check out Will’s post for a breakdown of the best value headlamps to take backpacking.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Indonesia

It’s no secret that Indonesia is not down with the drugs. The country has some of the strictest penalties, with life in prison for possession, and death by firing squad for convicted traffickers. Bali’s notorious Kerobokan Prison (often referred to as “Hotel K”) is full of foreigners busted for minor amounts of drugs.

Even so, you’ll get plenty of offers for mind-altering substances while walking around Kuta/Legian. The chances that these guys are working with the police are high, though, so it’s best to just stick to booze in Indonesia.

One exception to the rule has long been the Gili Islands, where mushrooms and weed are readily available and for some reason not punished. It’s not Hamsterdam though so you should still be cautious when partaking.

In a predominantly Muslim country, drinking is a bit frowned upon as well. In fact, some hardliners in the government have been trying unsuccessfully in recent years to ban alcohol altogether. Let’s hope that their efforts continue to be shot down, as Bali would be a whole lot less fun without all the awesome bars and clubs.

A very common sight in Indonesia (especially Bali) is an old white guy with a young Indonesian woman. Say what you will about this, but it’s quite common and people are used to it. That’s not to say that younger people can’t or don’t hook up with locals because it definitely happens.

Just beware, guys. There’s a good chance that lady flashing looks your way is actually a lady of the night. For women traveling alone, don’t be surprised if the men in Bali try to hit on you. This is not so common elsewhere in Indonesia, where people are more conservative.

Chances are you won’t be picking up many chicks at the bar if you stay in Bandung or Makassar. It’s more likely you’ll end up having a fling with a fellow backpacker. If the bunk bed’s a rocking, don’t come a knocking!

Travel Insurance for Indonesia

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Due to its vast size and sprawling nature, chances are you’ll be flying into Indonesia. Most travelers are in a hurry to get to Bali and book round-trip flights out of there.

One thing to be careful with is that the airport in Bali is actually called Denpasar after the island’s capital city. If you start typing “Bali” into a flight search you’ll end up with Balikpapan, a port city on Indonesian Borneo. Don’t make the same mistake that a buddy of mine once did by booking a flight to the wrong Indonesian city!

If you’ve got more time to spend in Indonesia, you may want to consider flying into one airport and out of another. Some of your best choices for international flights are Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya on Java, Medan on Sumatra, and Lombok. Thanks to budget airlines such as AirAsia, you can often score super cheap one-way flights to and from Indonesia out of regional hubs such as Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Those deadset on traveling by land and sea don’t have quite as many options. There are ferries from Singapore and Malaysia to Batam, where you have several options for connecting ferries to other points in Indonesia.

Entry Requirements for Indonesia

Citizens of 169 different countries can now visit Indonesia visa-free for 30 days.

Your passport must have at least six months validity and at least one blank page for entry into Indonesia. This visa-free entry applies to most major airports, as well as some seaports and land crossings. Definitely check to make sure it’s an option before you depart.

One thing to keep in mind about this visa-free entry is that it cannot be converted or extended. Once your 30 days are up, you have to get out of Indonesia.

If you’d like to spend more than one month backpacking Indonesia, you’ve got a few options. The easiest is to ask for a visa-on-arrival rather than the visa-free entry. This costs $35 and can be extended once for another 30 days. Doing so will require a few trips to an immigration office or paying an agent to do it for you, but it’s really not that difficult.

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Indonesia covers nearly 2 million square kilometers and is composed of over 17,000 islands! As you can imagine, backpacking Indonesia can be a bit complicated. Getting around Indonesia all depends on how much time you’ve got, your budget, and how many islands you’re trying to visit.

A lot depends on the particular island, as some are far more developed than others. For example, taking the train is a great option on Java and a small part of Sumatra, but not anywhere else. There is beautiful scenery on the train journey across Java, so definitely consider this if you’ve got the time.

When traveling between neighboring islands, you can choose between the local ferry or short flights. For example, between Bali and Lombok you can choose to take a speedboat to the Gili Islands (2 hours), the local ferry (4 hours), or a flight (about 30 minutes).

The main company operating inter-island ferries is called Pelni. They even have an English language website you can use to search for times and prices of the ferries . If you’ve got a bit more Rupiah to burn, you can also take some epic multi-day liveaboard trips. The most popular is to go from Lombok to the Komodo Islands with plenty of diving along the way. You’ve got tons of options for moving around when backpacking Indonesia.

On most of the islands, you can find plenty of local buses to get you in-between cities. Although it’s the most touristy island in the country, there isn’t a great bus system on Bali. Your best bet is the Kura Kura bus that travels between some of the most popular towns. It’s comfortable and much more affordable than taking a taxi. On most of the other islands, the bus will be your go-to for traveling between cities and towns.

Of course, there are several uniquely Indonesian methods of transport across the vast archipelago nation. There are angkot (shared minivans), ojek (motorbike taxi), cidomo (horse-drawn carriage), and so much more. While these are all well and good, the best way to explore Indonesia is with your own two wheels.

In some cases, you can actually make reservations online for transport in and out of Indonesia. By using an online resource, like Bookaway , you can save yourself a whole lot of stress and maybe even some cash. Check it out!

Travel by Motorbike in Indonesia

Few things in life beat the feeling of the wind on your face as you cruise a motorbike up to a postcard-worthy beach in Indonesia. While it’s not easy to find a proper motorcycle for rent, you can find scooters everywhere. This is especially true on Bali, where the image of a backpacker hauling a surfboard on a scooter is quite common. Other places where it’s possible to rent a scooter include Yogyakarta and Kuta, Lombok.

One of the most popular motorcycle adventures while backpacking Indonesia is to travel from Bali all the way to Flores. This requires you to take a couple of ferries with the bike, and you’ll want to make sure you get the necessary paperwork from the rental shop in order to do so.

You’ll need the originals of your license and the bike’s registration. It’s a good idea to make copies of each as well; just know that you need the originals to actually get on and off the ferry. This legendary trip takes you across four islands with a lot to see and do along the way, so it’s best done over a period of around two weeks.

Hitchhiking in Indonesia

Hitchhiking in Indonesia is usually very easy for foreigners ( Bule ), but it might be hard to get a free ride at times if you can’t communicate in Bahasa Indonesia that you actually do want to hitchhike.

The thumb isn’t used in Asia for hitching and a sign isn’t really necessary. Instead of sticking out a thumb, wave down each car with your right hand. It is important to use you right hand to signal drivers to stop as the left hand is considered dirty/offensive and would take longer for someone to stop. 

Onwards Travel from Indonesia

As far as land crossings go, there are only a few choices. You can travel to Malaysia via the Indonesian side of Borneo, cross to East Timor from West (which is part of Indonesia), or get to Papua New Guinea over from Papua at the border crossing near Wutung.

Unless you’ve got lots of time and patience, your best bet is to just fly to your next destination. Chances are you’ll actually end up spending more on sea and land crossings, and visa matters are always more complicated if you’re not going by air.

If you’re thinking about working or being a digital nomad in Indonesia, then you’ve probably already picked out your base: Bali.

Bali is arguably THE hottest digital nomad hub in the world right now.

It’s relatively easy to be a digital nomad in Bali : the community is vocal, there are copious co-working spaces, and regular events and conferences held around the island

Luckily, the internet coverage in Bali is great. If you’re looking for a place to try out the remote work lifestyle, Canggu and Ubud are some of your best bets. There are several co-working spaces in both towns and more cafes than you can count, giving you tons of options for places to be productive.

Elsewhere in Indonesia, it’s a bit more hit-and-miss. As with just about everything, the status of the internet in Indonesia all depends on where you are. You’ll find great WiFi in the big cities of Java and the tourist centers of Bali, but don’t expect to be able to watch Netflix from a village in Sulawesi.

Most hostels you’ll stay in should offer WiFi, and it’s never hard to find a cafe or a ‘net bar for other online needs. To stay connected, you can easily pick up a SIM card from Telkomsel for a few dollars and purchase a data package.

The further you travel from the Western hotspots, the less working opportunities you will find. If you’re in the rural parts of Sulawesi, Kalimantan, or any of the other 10,000+ islands for that matter, you’ll more likely be working as a volunteer.

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteer in Indonesia

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Indonesia ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Indonesia is full of opportunities to volunteer – no matter what your skill set. Teaching and other forms of social work are some of the more common areas where backpackers can offer up some time and give something back to the community. More unique opportunities include helping out with eco- and permaculture projects, among others. You’ll need a KITAS and a work visa to volunteer in Indonesia.

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in Indonesia? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Below I have listed some of the best dishes in Indonesia:

• Nasi Goreng  – Perhaps the most ubiquitous dish in Indonesia,  nasi goreng  (fried rice) can be found on just about every street corner. A big plate of seasoned rice usually topped with an egg. It’ll fill you up, and usually only cost you a buck.
• Nasi Campur  – If you need a little more variety, order up a plate of  nasi campur  (mixed rice). These places usually have a wide variety of dishes ready to go. Simply point and tell them what you want on top of your rice, Pay based on the items you choose
• Masakan Padang  – This type of cooking comes from the city of Padang in West Sumatra, and it is famous all over Indonesia. Padang restaurants are typically  nasi campur -style, where you pick and choose from ready-made dishes. Be sure to try the beef  rendang , as it’s their specialty.
• Gado-Gado  – This classic Indonesia dish is a combination of boiled vegetables with a hard-boiled egg covered in a delicious peanut sauce. It often includes some fried tofu or tempeh and is typically eaten with some  krupuk  crackers.
• Mie Bakso  – Indonesia’s version of a meatball soup is beloved by people all across the country. Even Barack Obama has fond memories of eating  bakso  when he lived in Indonesia! Sure, it may seem a bit sketchy buying mysterious meatballs from a guy peddling a tricycle around the streets, but it’s awesome.
• Sate  – These little meat sticks are cooked up on street corners everywhere. They usually come in two varieties – chicken and goat – and are served with  sambal  chili sauce and the same peanut sauce you get on  gado-gado .
• Babi Guling  – In a country that’s mostly Muslim, you don’t find a whole lot of pork in Indonesia. On Hindu Bali, however, their most famous dish is a roast suckling pig known as  babi guling . It’s usually served up with some potatoes, rice, and a bit of the crackling skin and it’s fantastic.

Indonesia is home to around 260 million people. This makes it the 4th most populous nation on Earth. Spread out across a vast distance and several thousand islands, it should come as no surprise that the people of Indonesia are quite diverse. Each island has its own unique customs, food, and even language.

While a majority of Indonesians are Muslim (about 87%), the Balinese are Hindu, and people on Flores are mostly Catholic.

Wherever you are in Indonesia, the people are extremely friendly. Respect the local culture and show some interest in it, and Indonesians will be very welcoming and hospitable.

Useful Travel Phrases for Indonesia

The national language is Bahasa Indonesia, or simply Indonesian. This is what you’ll hear on TV and read in the newspapers, and it’s the language of government, education, business, and just about everything else in Indonesia.

But Indonesia is an EXTREMELY diverse nation . There are hundreds of indigenous languages across the country as well, such as Balinese and Sundanese. Here are some useful Indonesian phrases to get you going:

Hello –  Halo

Good morning/afternoon –  Selamat pagi/sore

How are you? –  Apa kabar?

I’m fine –  Baik-baik saja

Thank you –  Terima kasih

You’re welcome –  Sama-sama

Please –  Silakan

Where is the bathroom? –  Kamar kecil di mana?

No plastic bag –  Tidak ada kantong plastik

No straw please –  Tidak ada sedotan silahkan

No plastic cutlery please –  Tolong, jangan gunakan sendok garpu plastik

What is this? –  Ini apa?

Sorry –  Maaf

I want a beer –  Saya mau satu bir

See you later –  Sampai jumpa lagi

If you’re interested in learning more Indonesian, you can follow the Indonesian Language & Culture Blog . There are tons of free lessons that will at least get you to a survival level if you put in some time studying them.

Books to Read About Indonesia

• Indonesia Lonely Planet – If you’re into guidebooks, then LP’s newest version on Indonesia is a great thing to pick up before traveling here.
• A Brief History of Indonesia – This book by Tim Hannigan takes an in-depth look at the fascinating history of Indonesia.
• In the Time of Madness: Indonesia on the Edge of Chaos – Foreign correspondent Richard Lloyd Parry spent a few years in Indonesia when the country was transitioning out of 30 years under the authoritarian grip of Suharto.
• Snowing in Bali – Kathryn Bonella got access to some of Bali’s kingpins and wrote this page-turner about the lucrative and dangerous drug trade.

A Brief History of Indonesia

The recent history of Indonesia is a turbulent one. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in Indonesia in 1512, seeking to dominate the spice trade and extend the influence of the Catholic church. While they had some success, their efforts paled in comparison to the Dutch. In 1602, they established the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and soon had a major foothold on Java. They established a capital in Batavia (now Jakarta), which became the center of their massive trading network.

Despite gaining a monopoly on several valuable spices and also introducing new cash crops like coffee, tea, sugar, and even opium, the VOC went bankrupt in 1800. Shortly thereafter, the Dutch government nationalized its holdings in Indonesia as the Dutch East Indies.

For the next century and a half, however, Dutch control over this area was tenuous at best. They were met with resistance several times, leading to bloody wars and crushed rebellions. A nationalist movement started to gain ground in the early 1900s, but the Dutch strongly oppressed any attempts at change.

Brief History of Japanese Occupation in Indonesia

Dutch rule finally came to an end, but only as a result of the Japanese occupation during World War II. They were welcomed as liberators at first, but this sentiment soon changed when the Japanese turned out to be far more oppressive than the Dutch. A UN report estimates that 4 million people died in Indonesia during the Japanese occupation.

Following the surrender of the Japanese in 1945, nationalist leaders Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta went on to declare Indonesian independence. Not surprisingly, the Dutch tried to reclaim their former colony, resulting in four years of struggle and bloodshed. Facing mounting international pressure, the Dutch finally recognized Indonesian independence in December 1949.

Indonesia after Independence

Sukarno became the first president of an independent Indonesia and quickly began moving the country towards authoritarian rule. A failed coup to overthrow him in 1965 was blamed on the Indonesian Communist Party, leading to an anti-communist purge. It’s estimated that between 500,000 and one million people were killed during this time. Sukarno was weakened as a result, and he eventually transferred power to General Suharto. He became the country’s 2nd president and began his New Order administration.

While Suharto’s new administration was supported by the US and attracted a lot of foreign investment in Indonesia, it was rife with corruption and the suppression of political opposition. Despite this, Suharto managed to hold onto power for 30 years.

It wasn’t until the financial crisis of 1997 – which hit Indonesia especially hard – that he was driven from office by massive protests. Following his ousting, East Timor declared its independence from Indonesia after 25 years of oppressive rule.

Indonesia in Modern Times

Suharto’s replacement was his deputy Jusuf Habibie, but that wouldn’t last long. He failed to win enough support before elections took place, which Abdurrahman Wahid won in October of 1999. Although he was the first elected president of Indonesia, his days were numbered as well. Just a few years later, he was ousted amidst charges of corruption and incompetence.

Control was given to his VP Megawati Sukarnoputri, who attempted to keep the presidency in the country’s first direct presidential election of 2004. He lost to Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who would go on to win a 2nd term in the 2009 elections.

In the most recent presidential elections of 2014, Joko Widodo stunned high-ranking general Prabowo Subianto. As the governor of Jakarta, he became the first president of Indonesia without a top-level military or political background. Although his victory was celebrated, he has had a hard time establishing a coalition in the government and many of his policies have been criticized. He’s serving a 5-year term, and will most liekly seek re-election in 2019.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Indonesia

While backpacking Indonesia may be famous for its beaches and amazing diving, there are also plenty of opportunities for adventures on land. Located in the Ring of Fire, Indonesia is home to well over 100 volcanoes. Trekking these volcanoes to the summit is one experience you won’t want to miss when backpacking Indonesia. In addition to the aforementioned Mt. Bromo and Mt. Rinjani , you can also scale Mt. Agung on Bali or Mt. Egon on Flores.

There are also plenty of choices for great multi-day trekking trips to isolated villages that don’t require you to climb all the way up a volcano. Some of the most popular options include a visit to Wae Rebo on Flores and the Baliem Valley in West Papua. These villages were completely cut off from the outside world until just a decade or so ago, meaning they’re incredibly unique.

Scuba Diving in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the best places to go scuba diving in the world. If you’re not already certified, a great place to start is on the Gili Islands . There are several dive shops here, and open water courses are very reasonably priced. Once you’re finished, there are nearly 30 dive sites for you to start exploring. Around the Gilis, you’ll see black and white-tipped reef sharks, manta rays, and tons of turtles.

There are also several places to go diving on Bali. Off the island’s north coast, you can dive at Menjangan Island and a few other sites near the towns of Pemuteran and Lovina . On the east coast, you’ll find dive shops in Sanur, Padang Bai, Candidasa , and Amed . One of the island’s most popular dive sites is Tulamben , where you can explore the USAT Liberty wreck.

If you still need more diving, pop over to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida for even more world-class sites.

We’re just getting started when it comes to scuba diving in Indonesia. Serious divers may want to consider doing a liveaboard trip from Lombok to Komodo National Park to experience some of the best diving the country has to offer.

If you’ve got the time and resources to make it all the way there, both Alor and Raja Ampat are famed to be absolutely epic diving locations.

Scuba Dive Indonesia on a Liveaboard Trip

Obviously, Indonesia is a land mass defined by its Islands. A majority of these islands are remote and very difficult to independently access.

If you truly want to up your scuba diving game whilst exploring Indonesia’s remote islands I recommend joining a Liveaboard trip. There is simply no better way to cram in heaps of diving in some of the country’s best spots.

Liveaboard trips are awesome because they take you to dive sites you would otherwise never get to experience.

Dive all day, chill at night, and fall asleep to the sound of the sea lapping against the boat. For many divers, this is a dream come true.

Ah the possibilities we have in this life…

Sounds pretty epic, right?

For more information check out Liveaboard scuba diving trips in Indonesia here .

Surfing in Indonesia

Bali has been drawing in surfers for many years now, and for good reason. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a wave for you on the Island of the Gods. Newbs will want to start out in the popular beach towns of Kuta, Legian, or Seminyak where there are plenty of boards for rent and teachers for hire.

More seasoned surfers are better off heading up the coast a bit to Canggu or even further to Medewi . Down south on the Bukit peninsula, you’ll find some of the best waves at places like Uluwatu . Another great choice are the black sand beaches on the east coast just north of Sanur . You won’t find the crowds that come with some of the other places, but you will find some ridiculous waves.

Kuta, Lombok is another great surfing town to hit up while backpacking Indonesia. Rent a motorbike for a few days and bring your board along as you visit the numerous beaches up and down the coast.

Get even more off-the-beaten-path by heading east one island to Sumbawa . Here you’ll find super cheap accommodation, friendly locals, and some great surfing opportunities.

Joining an Organized Tour in Indonesia

For most countries, Indonesia included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Indonesia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome  itineraries for Indonesia  here…

Generally speaking, the people of Indonesia are super friendly and welcoming. They’re also quite soft-spoken and won’t always tell you when you’re doing something offensive. The biggest thing you’ll want to be aware of is your dress and behavior in places of worship. You probably wouldn’t show up to church in a Bintang singlet, board shorts, and flip-flops, so why would you do that at a Hindu temple on Bali?

When visiting temples, you should at least have your shoulders covered and be wearing a sarong and sash. If you don’t have your own, most temples in Bali will rent them. The same goes for visiting mosques on other islands or the ancient Buddhist temples – cover up and dress respectfully.

Speaking of dressing respectfully, you may not like it, but you should dress conservatively on most of the islands in Indonesia. The Balinese are used to seeing half-naked foreigners – and a lot of them used to walk around naked, too – but people on Java and Lombok will likely be offended by women wearing booty shorts and spaghetti straps. Yes, it’s hot here, but you should still cover up.

When visiting these religious sites, it’s also important to be aware of the dos and don’ts. This should go without saying, but don’t climb on statues, take offensive pictures, or go into rooms that are off limits. You’d think most people would be able to figure that out on their own, but for some reason this remains a problem with travelers in Indonesia.

One of the biggest complaints with backpackers in Indonesia is that they drive motorbikes recklessly, oftentimes drunk, without helmets. This is just plain stupid and gives travelers who don’t drive like morons a bad name. Wear a helmet, use common sense, and take a taxi if you’re going to be crushing beers all night.

I hope you found this travel guide helpful! Indonesia really is one of the most beautiful, adventurous, and fun countries you could visit. There’s a reason people come here year after year, and even choose to live on Indonesia instead of go home.

Will Hatton

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19 Comments

Thank you for sharing tourism in Indonesia. There are still many other places that must be visited

Thank you for sharing tourism in Indonesia. These are Great tips to travel in Indonesia I hope keep posting on travel in different places.

This is such a great blog about Indonesia. If you come back please come see us in Komodo. This is my home island of Flores and we have a local tour company that helps locals get through the hard time of covid. It is very hard with no tourist now. If you come, we can show you so many more places to go. It is such a beautiful island! Thank you – Jejey!

Hi Mate You should call this the greatest F#$%*G guide to Indonesia ! Great Job! Quick question, i couldn’t find reliable infos about the visa-on-arrival 30+30, i’ve got two months to do Indo, can i get the extendable visa in the airport when i arrive and pay there the 35$ or i need to arrange it before arriving in indo?… leaving in 5 days, would i have the time to do it or shall i just spend a week in Malesia and than come back to finish my trip? thanks much appreciated! btw great job with your Pakistan tours!

Thanks Simmo, depending on your nationality you should be able to buy the extendable visa from the little desk just before immigration. They take a variety of currency but do not take card. Have a great time in Bali.

Our kids loved learning to surf in Legian! So many great suggestions and I wish I could live in Bali for 4 months to explore the east coast.

I’m Indonesian and i couldn’t even write this much.. Anyway this helped me so much for my trip

This is an excellent blog post, it’s really helped me in brainstorming for my trip next month. THANK YOU!

This is the best post I’ve come across about travelling Indonesia! I’m poolside in Canggu planning my 8-week trip and have spent the last hour taking down notes. Thank you!

Anytime! Enjoy Indonesia (and those poolside drinks)! 🙂

Condemnable work you are doing in this article! Exploring Bali is one of the great experience in life as there are lots of tourist attractions to see and learn in Indonesia.

I am going to Bali in Nov as part of a longer 3-week trip. What’s the best route to get from Bali to the islands the komodo’s are on? We have a week in Bali. How much time do you think we would need to make it there and would we need to consider an overnighter on the route? I am wondering if there is any way to do a day trip from Bali? Thanks, Nikki

Thanks for all the great info Will! So glad you updated it just in time for my trip. Based on your tips I may just spend 4 weeks and avoid any visa drama.

i was bored and actually searching a trip to my own country in google, and BOOM! found your site 😀 i don’t do trip much, and your article makes me want to 🙂 gotta leave my comfort zone and do backpacker >:3 (run)

Yes, you should definitely go backpacking in Indonesia to start with!

So many beautiful places in Indonesia. You may enjoy it…Welcome to the hidden paradise of Indonesia.

Thanks for the great article mate !! Just wondering where you got a bike for 50$ a month ? I’d definitely need to hire one there asap.. Cheers!

Kta beach, they paved paradise, and put up a Maccy D’s dude. Nusa Lembongan was highlight of our trip, and Sanur is nice and laid back, with plenty of the beach Warung’s with cheap dishes and Bintang to boot.

Great write up with loads of info matey, should put fellow travellers on the right path for this neck of the woods, and only 3 hours to Darwin…..cool.

Thank you for reviewing the tourism in Indonesia ,, there are many places that are very good tourism to visit and have a delicious food

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