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Indonesia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country. Home to over 261 million people, it boasts stunning landscapes, incredible beaches, amazing food, and affordable prices.

While most people just visit Bali, backpacking further afield in the country is an underrated activity. With so much on offer, it can take months to see everything because there is just so much to see and do here: hectic and chaotic cityscapes, cool white sand beaches, and violent volcanoes. Indonesia has it all.

And it’s easy to visit Indonesia on a budget too. It’s extremely inexpensive and your money goes far here.

While most travelers fly to Bali and visit the Gili Islands or head to Lombok, I encourage you to try to get to the less touristy destinations and off the beaten path. Find dragons in Flores, go hiking, see the historic ruins of Java, and go to Sumatra. You’ll find even cheaper prices and far fewer crowds once you escape the digital nomad hub of Bali.

This Indonesia travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this island paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Indonesia

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Top 5 things to see and do in indonesia.

1. Relax in Bali

Bali is probably the most famous of Indonesia’s islands. Although often crowded with travelers, there is no escaping the fact that this place is beautiful. Try some surfing at Bingin Beach or visit the Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple, which is truly stunning to behold. Make sure you see some traditional Balinese dancing in Ubud too. You can also join a yoga retreat pretty much anywhere on the island and cooking classes are also plentiful and make for a great souvenir.

2. Dive in the Gili Islands

For a true sense of an island paradise, head to the Gili Islands . There are excellent (and cheap) scuba and snorkel facilities as well as great nightlife on Gili Trawangan. These islands are super popular with backpackers thanks to their super cheap accommodation and food, party scene, and stunning beaches for lazing around all day.

3. Admire Borobudur

Borobudur is a the world’s biggest Buddhist temple complex, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries. With 2,672 reliefs meant to highlight Buddhist teachings, it’s made from blocks of volcanic rock. Each level is supposed to describe the stages of life. It is said you can’t move on to the top until you discover the meaning of each relief. Admission for foreign adults is around 380,000 IDR.

4. See Komodo dragons

The subject of more nature documentaries than any other lizard, the Komodo dragon is a force to be reckoned with. Komodo National Park, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, is the only place to see the world’s largest lizard in the wild, which grows up to 10 feet long and weighs over 135 kilograms (300 pounds). Admission is 150,000 IDR during the week, with prices rising to 250,000 IDR on Sundays and holidays (just note that there are additional fees for other activities including ranger fees, hiking fees, diving fees, and so on). The only way to really visit Komodo National Park is on a tour since the islands are over an hour away from Labuan Bajo port on Flores Island.

5. Visit Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park covers a total of 800 square kilometers (308 square miles) at the center of East Java and is the largest volcanic region in the province. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life from the top of Mount Bromo or Mount Semeru. The easiest way to get here is from Probolinggo, through the village of Ngadisari. Although it doesn’t take long to get to the summit (around 45 minutes up a sandy slope) and access to the trail is free, a number of tour operators run guided trips through the park, which includes transport to and from the park.

Other Things to See and Do in Indonesia

1. explore hindi prambanan.

There are 244 temples at this 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the central compound being the main attraction. There are eight minor temples and eight major temples here, with the tallest being 45 meters (150 feet) — which is actually taller than Borobudur. Located in Yogyakarta, there’s a lot to see, so schedule a full day here (it’s the second-largest temple complex in Southeast Asia, after Angkor Wat). Admission is around 380,000 IDR.

2. Wander Jakarta

Indonesia’s capital is a large, bustling city with a population of over 10 million. You could easily spend a few days here as there is a lot to see. Admire Istana Merdeka, the presidential palace (visitors are not allowed inside); see the Monas Tower, a symbol of Indonesia’s independence; check out Ancol Beach; visit the National Museum, and go shopping at the Jalan Surabaya Flea Market. For a moment of calm, people-watch from one of the cafes overlooking Fatahillah Square in the Old Batavia, the Dutch Quarter, where you can take in the historic architecture as you take in the local pace of life.

3. Snorkel or dive in Bunaken

The Bunaken National Marine Park is located in the Bay of Manado and it’s where you want to go if diving or snorkeling is your thing. These deep waters offer fantastic visibility and some of the world’s most biodiverse marine life. Keep an eye out for tuna, sharks, rays, turtles, sea snakes, and more. Entry to the marine park is 50,000 IDR per person, though children under 10 enter free.

4. Broaden your taste buds

Indonesia is home to 17,000 islands and over 260 million people. The country is brimming with diverse cultures, traditions, and beliefs. If you want some idea of how diverse this place is, there are over 700 languages spoken here! This diversity is very much reflected in the food. Javanese, Sundanese, Padang, and Balinese food are just some of your options. Hit the markets, participate in cooking classes, or take food tours to get a taste of what the country has to offer. Your tastebuds will thank you!

5. Visit Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is Indonesia’s cultural hub and is a much less industrial city compared to Jakarta. There is an interesting blend of old customs with modern living here (the region still has a sultan/monarchy). It’s a hip place filled with street art, galleries, cafes, great nightlife, and a strong arts community. Yogyakarta is also a good jumping-off point for exploring the popular and picturesque Borobudur and Prambanan sites.

6. See the orangutans in Sumatra

A mysterious and rare primate, the orangutan finds its habitat on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. A visit to see these primates is a moving experience. And, given the rapid deforestation and fires in the area, you probably want to do this sooner rather than later as these animals are gravely endangered. If you go, make sure you’re traveling with an eco-friendly tour company. Reputable companies don’t let you get in close contact with the animals, as the risk of disease is too high. Even a common cold can knock out a baby orangutan. Nevertheless, seeing these majestic animals is an amazing and life-changing experience. Week-long guided treks cost around 20,000,000 IDR per person.

7. Experience village life in Kalibaru

Kalibaru is a small village on the southeastern side of Java. It’s quiet, secluded, and a great place to tour one of the many plantations (cacao, coffee, dragon fruit, rubber, and spices, among others) in the area on your way to or from Bali. It’s not as well-visited as many other places in Indonesia, meaning you can escape the crowds and get a chance to experience what local life is really like. You can stay here after a trip to Mount Bromo, or just visit on a day trip.

8. See the Bogor Botanical Gardens

Located 65 kilometers (40 miles) outside of Jakarta, the Bogor Botanical Gardens have over 200 acres of land and 15,000 species of plants and trees. The gardens are a lovely spot in which to lose yourself for a couple of hours with a book and some snacks. Admission is around 26,000 IDR. There is a commuter train between Bogor and Jakarta with a stop right next to the gardens.

9. See the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

These are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, and yet not many people make the trek here. They’re located about 90 minutes from Ubud, and then you have to hike through a banana plantation to reach the falls. It’s worth it as there are several sets of falls to explore. Just make sure to bring your swimsuit!

10. Explore the megaliths in Bada Valley

Near Lore Lindu National Park are 400 ancient stone megaliths scattered around the hills. No one really knows the origins of these structures, but they’re thought to be over 5,000 years old. No settlement remains or tools were ever found in the area. It’s best to hire a local guide here as the megaliths are not easy to find.

11. Visit the House of Danar Hadi

The House of Danar Hadi in Surakarta (Central Java) is considered one of the world’s best batik museums, with a handpicked selection of favorites from the owner’s collection of 11,000 pieces (batik is a cloth-dyeing method from Java). You have to take a tour to see it all, but it’s worth it. There are lots of antique and royal items on display. They also have batik demonstrations showcasing how these detailed pieces are made. Admission is 35,000 IDR.

12. See the lakes in Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park, on the island of Flores, is renowned for its tri-colored crater lakes. The crater lakes have continuously changed color over the years, likely due to the mineral makeup in the water. Sometimes they’re green, black, brown, red, blue, etc. The lakes are very sacred among the locals, who believe that they’re the final resting spots of departed souls. Moni is the closest town to the lakes; from there you can take public transportation to the park. Admission to the park is 150,000 IDR.

  For more information on specific destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

• Bali Travel Guide
• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Indonesia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a dorm hostel dorm can cost as little as 55,000 IDR but most places are closer to 100,000 IDR. For a private double room, prices start around 175,000 IDR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels offer self-catering facilities and free breakfast.

Most budget hotels begin at 300,000 IDR per night for a double room that usually includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast. For a three-star hotel, prices begin around 400,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from around 300,000 IDR per night. For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 400,000 IDR per night. Book early, however, or prices can double.

If you’re booking through Booking.com, keep in mind that many of the listings are actually homestays and private residences.

Since hostels and homestays are so cheap, camping is not very common unless you’re on a guided trek.

Food – Food in Indonesia is heavily influenced by a number of cultures, most notably Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Lots of dishes have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

The food here is extremely cheap by Western standards, with street food costing under 10,000 IDR. It’s also delicious in part because much of it is based on fresh spices and herbs. Expect rice and noodle-based dishes such as nasi goreng (stir-fried rice with chicken, egg, and vegetables) and mie goreng (a spicy fried noodle dish with garlic, onion, meat, egg, and vegetables) as well as gado gado (comprising of steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, sometimes egg, and peanut sauce), and lots of satay.

For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, expect to pay around 25,000 IDR. For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with table service, prices start at 125,000 IDR per person. Western food is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at under 100,000 IDR for a meal. For the cheapest food and a fun experience, head to the night markets.

Fast food like Mcdonald’s costs around 50,000 IDR for a combo meal. A beer at the bar costs around 30,000 IDR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 450,000-500,000 IDR. However, food in the country is very cheap and I would encourage you to eat out as often as possible as kitchens are hard to come by!

Backpacking Indonesia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 425,000 IDR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, rent a bicycle to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking, add another 30,000-60,000 IDR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,100,000 IDR per day, you can eat out at more restaurants, stay in a budget hotel or a private hostel room, rent a scooter to get around, drink more, enjoy some massages, and go diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay at a nicer hotel or villa, take taxis or private minivans to get around, eat Western food, drink more, and do any adventure activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, however. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Indonesia is super affordable, it’s also easy to splash out here (especially in Bali). To help you save money, here are some specific ways you can keep your spending down while you’re here:

• Eat on the street – You can pick up tasty local fare for under 10,000 IDR. Street-side snacks, soups, and noodles are super affordable and super tasty.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain with sellers as most of the time the prices they quote aren’t the prices you end up paying if you bargain!
• Drink cheap – Save money on alcohol by heading to the local happy hours (or just buying your drinks at a local store instead of the bar). This is the cheapest way to drink!
• Book online in advance – If you’re planning on hitting up some of Indonesia’s most popular destinations, such as Bali, it’s actually cheaper to book your accommodations (and sometimes tours) online in advance rather than showing up and trying to strike a deal.
• Pay bus attendants directly – When you’re taking an intercity bus, don’t purchase a ticket from a ticket window. It’s cheaper to pay directly on the bus.
• Rent a bike – In many places, such as Bali and Gili, you can easily get around on two wheels. Rent a bike for as little as 40,000 IDR per day. It’s a great way to get around on the cheap.
• Take taxis – Taxis are essential for getting around in some parts of Indonesia, and they can be cheap. Just make sure the driver puts the meter on before you depart (or agree on a price before you get in).
• Bring a filtered water bottle – Indonesia has a ton of plastic waste. It has so much that a lot of it just gets burned. You’ll see — and smell — it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save both money and the environment. I personally like Lifestraw .

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Looking for a place to stay during your trip? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Indonesia:

• PADI Backpackers House (Ubud)
• Kememai Hostel (Ubud)
• Warung Coco Hostel (Kuta)
• Tribal Bali (Canggu)
• Gili Beach Bum (Gili Trawangan)
• My Mate’s Place (Gili Trawangan)
• Wonderloft Hostel (Jakarta)

How to Get Around Indonesia

Public transportation – Public buses aren’t really used for city transport except on Java. There’s an extensive network in Jakarta, known as the Transjakarta Busway. Fares cost 3,500-9,000 IDR for any destination in the network. You have to pay with a card that costs 40,000 IDR (it comes with a 20,000 IDR credit) from station ticketing offices.

Otherwise, most people get around by becak , a three-wheeled pedal or motor-powered cart. You should negotiate your fare before you get in; ask your hotel/hostel staff for up-to-date price estimates.

Taxis are also affordable, and they’re metered in major cities. Bluebird Taxis is available in most places, and they’re the most dependable company for metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. There’s a smartphone app that makes it really easy to order taxis. The starting rate is around 7,500 IDR and then 5,300 IDR per kilometer.

Grab (an Uber offspring) is a household name in Southeast Asia. It is convenient but sometimes costs even more than a taxi. Gojek is a similar option. Be forewarned: if you order a Grab or Gojek, you might wind up on the back of a motorbike.

Ferry – For traveling between islands, ferries start around 15,000 IDR for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. Bali to the Gili Islands is 175,000 IDR (one way) on a speedboat.

While it’s not necessary to book in advance it’s a good idea to do so during peak season or on more popular routes. You can buy tickets on the ferry company’s website or via a ticket agent like 12go.asia.

Bus – Buses are the main way for locals and tourists to get around Indonesia. It’s a good idea to book your long-distance tickets in advance, especially if you want an air-conditioned ride. You can buy a ticket from a travel agent, or visit the bus terminal. Your accommodation may also be able to arrange your transportation.

A 12-hour journey on a bus costs around 170,000 IDR. A short journey, like the one from Kuta Beach to Ubud, is less than 80,000 IDR and takes one hour.

If your ride is a shorter one, you might end up on a bemos (mini-bus). In this case, negotiate your fare beforehand.

Train – In Indonesia, the cities of Java are well linked by train, including Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo), and Banyuwangi (the ferry terminal for Bali). Economy class from Jakarta to Surabaya takes 10.5 hours and costs about 190,000 IDR, while an 8-hour executive class trip can cost from 620,000 IDR. Surabaya to Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo) takes 2-3 hours and costs 27,000 IDR for economy or 240,000 IDR for executive class. Surabaya to Banyuwangi (for Bali) takes 6-7 hours and costs as little as 56,000 IDR for economy or 235,000 IDR for executive class. You can reserve your tickets at tiket.com.

Flying – Garuda Indonesia is the country’s main airline offering international service as well as domestic flights. Lion Air and AirAsia also offer plenty of domestic routes, although Lion Air’s safety record is spotty and I wouldn’t advise traveling with them.

Flights between Jakarta and Bali start around 900,000 IDR each way, while Jakarta to Lombok starts around 1,200,000 IDR. Lombok to Bali is around 1,100,000 IDR. However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel and is only recommended if you have limited time.

When to Go to Indonesia

Indonesia has just two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. Dry season lasts from May to September while the rainy season occurs from October to April. The average daily temperature year-round is 28°C (80°F).

Overall, the best time of year to visit is between May and September when it’s dry and sunny. It’s still pleasant to visit during the rainy season, however, as rainfall usually comes as fast and intense downpours that only last a few hours.

The Nusa Tenggara region is more affected by the wet season which may sometimes result in flooding. The wet season may also be a problem if you’re looking to get off the beaten track in Indonesia, as muddy roads can sometimes keep you from getting around.

In Bali and Kalimantan, the extremes between seasons aren’t drastic. The dry season is the best time to climb the volcanoes, and the best time to dive is from April to September. (If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!)

How to Stay Safe in Indonesia

Indonesia is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Indonesia. It’s most common on public transit as it’s easy for thieves to grab your wallet or purse when you’re distracted by all the chaos around you. Staying alert and securing your valuables is the best way to prevent petty theft.

Credit card fraud is also common in Indonesia. To avoid this, it’s always best to pay with cash when possible. To avoid getting your information stolen at an ATM, enter a reputable bank to withdraw money from there.

There are a lot of small scams around the island and you can read about how to avoid these common travel scams here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). The country is big and, while generally safe, there are certain spots you’ll want to stay more vigilant in. There are countless solo female travel blogs out there that can give you specific information on how to stay safe.

Earthquakes are common in Indonesia, owing to its location on the Ring of Fire (it experiences more earthquakes than any other country). Make sure you know where your exits are during an emergency. Also, download an offline map and languages translation pack in case you need it during an emergency situation where you don’t have mobile data/Wi-Fi.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Indonesia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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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Indonesia Travel Guide

Unique in every aspect. Volcanoes, beaches, wildlife, impressive cultures, and heartwarming locals.

Best time to visit Indonesia

Best places to visit in indonesia, komodo islands: how to tour in komodo national park, 11 best things to do in yogyakarta, bromo and ijen tour: the perfect 3-day route, tumpak sewu: best waterfall in indonesia (java), map of indonesia, weather in indonesia.

Indonesia is a tropical paradise, boasting warm weather year-round. The wet season typically runs between November and March, although it varies slightly by region. During this time, the temperature becomes more humid, and short, heavy rain showers alternate with sunny intervals.

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9 best things to do in malang, java, jodipan: colorful rainbow village in malang, java, visit mount bromo volcano: everything you need to know, kawah ijen: tips for climbing the volcano, 13 things to do in komodo, flores, 11 things to do in labuan bajo, flores, unforgettable experiences, snorkel at the underwater statues of gili meno, indonesia, nusa penida tour: the perfect day trip from bali, how to get a visa for indonesia, best travel insurances.

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Why is Indonesia worth visiting?

Indonesia is any traveler’s dream! With an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is home to incredibly diverse landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant rice paddies, dramatic waterfalls, and immense volcanoes. There’s so much to explore!

Is Indonesia cheap to visit?

Indonesia is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia. While luxury experiences are available, especially in Bali, which is more touristy, you can stay in a guesthouse for as little as $6 a night and eat delicious food at local warungs for under $3.

Can I drink tap water in Indonesia?

It’s recommended that you avoid tap water throughout Indonesia. Instead, fill up your reusable water bottle at restaurants and accommodations or buy a filter for your bottle to stay hydrated on the go.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Indonesia?

Indonesia welcomes most passport holders for stays up to 30 days with a Visa on Arrival. You can obtain this visa when you arrive in Indonesia or apply online using the e-VOA. If you’re keen to see more of this tropical paradise, you can even extend your stay for another 30 days (60 days total).

What language do they speak in Indonesia?

Indonesia’s official language is the delightful Bahasa Indonesia. However, different languages are spoken throughout the country, such as Javanese in Eastern and Central Java. Locals love it when you engage with them in their local language. A friendly “Selamat Pagi” is always welcomed!

Do I need travel insurance for Indonesia?

It’s crucial to have travel insurance during your time in Indonesia! Protect yourself from unexpected flight delays, scooter accidents, and lost belongings so you can explore this stunning country with complete freedom.

Is Indonesia safe?

Indonesia is generally safe and welcoming to tourists. However, petty crime does exist, particularly in busy tourist areas like Bali, so always keep valuables out of sight, particularly when riding scooters. With a bit of awareness, you can confidently explore this breathtaking destination!

What power plug type does Indonesia have?

Indonesia uses plug types F and C, with two round pins and additional earth clips for type F. To keep your devices charged, make sure to bring a suitable adapter or purchase one at the airport when you arrive.

Why do people love Indonesia?

Indonesia is loved worldwide for its outstanding surroundings, diverse wildlife, warm hospitality, and deep spirituality. From the dramatic waterfalls and volcanoes of Java to the pink beaches of the Komodo Islands and everything in between, each island is unique, making it an incredibly magical place!

Travel to Indonesia

This wonderful country is hard to beat. Home to more than 17,000 tropical islands, Indonesia has it all! Whether you’re looking to surf the untouched beaches in the Mentawai Islands, join a yoga retreat in Bali , explore the cultural heritage of Yogyakarta , or take in the mind-blowing biodiversity in Borneo, there is everything you could wish for on your vacation in Indonesia . 

How to plan your trip to Indonesia

Our Indonesia travel guides will help you plan your dream trip! Whether you’re planning to hop on a boat around the Komodo Islands in Flores, go backpacking through Java , or looking for the best places to stay in Bali , we’ve got you covered. 

Wanting to see as much of Indonesia as possible? Our 3-week travel guide will take you through the highlights of East Java, Bali, and Flores . If you have more time, add more days using our detailed location-based guides, as there are plenty of things to do in Indonesia!  

Wondering when to plan your holiday to Indonesia ? Find out about the weather in Indonesia so you can pick the best month to visit. 

Dry Season (April – October): If you’re looking for clear blue skies and warm temperatures, the dry season is the best time to visit Indonesia . This period is also perfect for hiking up volcanoes, surfing the best waves, relaxing on pristine beaches, and spotting orangutans in the wild. However, this period also coincides with the Australian winter and European summer holidays, which attract travelers, especially to Bali and the Gili Islands . 

Wet Season (November – March): As the rainy season unfolds, the tropical landscapes transform into a lush green paradise, making it a fantastic time to travel Indonesia to experience its true natural beauty. This period also brings fewer crowds and lower prices, making it an excellent time for those backpacking around Indonesia on a budget. While most of Indonesia sees rain during this period due to its tropical climate, some areas like Raja Ampat in West Papua experience their dry season during these months, making it the perfect time to visit one of the most marine biodiverse places in the world.

Ultimately, any time is a great time to visit Indonesia! While there are two distinct seasons, Indonesia’s diversity is amazing year-round. The weather is always warm, the sights are always breathtaking, and there are always adventures and memories to be made. 

Coastlines and beaches in Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, there are many stunning beaches to choose from for your vacation in Indonesia . Whether you’re looking for the best surf break, an exotic palm-tree-lined beach with black sand, or even a pink-sand beach home to Komodo dragons, you’ll find it in Indonesia. 

Bali and Nusa Lembongan/Ceningan: With its crazy coastline and nearby islands, including the iconic cliffs of Uluwatu and its crystal-clear waters, the unspoiled waters of West Bali National Park, and the tranquil coves of Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, it’s easy to see why Bali is the most visited destination in Indonesia.

Find the best beaches in Bali . 

Nusa Penida: A short boat ride from Bali is Nusa Penida , with a surreal rugged coastline adorned with jaw-dropping cliffs. Some of the best beaches include Kelingking Beach , with its T-Rex-shaped cliff; Diamond Beach , with silky blue water and limestone rocks; and Broken Beach, with a natural infinity pool nestled behind crazy waves. 

Lombok and the Gili Islands: Bali’s less-visited neighbor, Lombok, has its fair share of coastal gems, from Kuta Beach, renowned for its surf-worthy waves, to Tanjung Aan, with its soft, powdery sand. The nearby Gili Islands have picture-perfect white sandy beaches and clear waters, home to amazing snorkeling and even underwater statues , an idyllic setting for sun-soaked beach days.

Komodo Islands: The Komodo Islands are a group of 29 small islands with outstanding beaches and marine life. From beautiful white sand beaches and the more unique pink beaches to manta rays and world-class reefs, the best way to explore these islands is by boat, hopping from one beach to the next. 

Raja Ampat: Home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems, Raja Ampat’s uninhabited coastline is out of this world! Hop on a liveaboard and dive or snorkel around untouched waters and vibrant coral reefs while taking in the captivating scenery. 

Mentawai Islands: For surf enthusiasts, the Mentawai Islands offer world-class waves and pristine beaches. Although these remote islands are difficult to reach, the adventure is well worth it.  

Islands off Sulawesi: The lesser-known islands off the coast of Sulawesi, like Labengki and Mahoro, reveal secluded paradises with crystal blue waters – a haven for travelers looking to get off the beaten path and experience untouched beauty. 

Food, culture and religion in Indonesia

With over 580 languages and 750 ethnic groups, Indonesia embraces many different influences and traditions. 

Culture: Influenced by colonial, immigrant, and indigenous traditions, Indonesian culture is highly diverse. Each region has its own customs, but people live happily together, and the national motto is “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika”, which means unity in diversity. Despite this diversity, family always comes first in Indonesian culture, maintaining close relationships throughout their lives and often living together under the same roof. 

Religion: Despite the majority of the population being predominantly Muslim, Indonesia is made up of many religions , including Protestant, Roman Catholic, Buddhism, Hindu, Confucianism, and many other non-recognized religions . 

Food: The diverse influences prominent throughout Indonesia create delicious flavors focusing heavily on herbs, spices, and local ingredients. Rice, chili, and fresh seafood are staples to most dishes. Nasi Goreng is arguably the most popular meal, consisting of rice, eggs, vegetables, and fish or meat, with each region adding their unique twist. Alongside this, the country’s numerous islands contribute to an abundance of fresh and exotic fruits, creating refreshing desserts and beverages.

Everywhere you travel in Indonesia , you’ll get an insight into the food, culture, and religion through the way the homes and temples have been built, the way festivals are celebrated, and the way art is created, making it a really unique and beautiful place to experience. 

Why you should travel to Indonesia

With unparalleled natural beauty, welcoming locals, and unique cultural experiences, it’s easy to see why so many people return to Indonesia again and again. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or spirituality, this irresistible country is waiting to be discovered. 

Most people only think of Bali when planning a trip to Indonesia, and while Bali is absolutely amazing, Indonesia has so much more to offer. The quirky city of Yogyakarta , filled with Javanese art, the epic sunrise view of the active Mount Bromo , the marine paradise of Raja Ampat, and the once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters at Tanjung Puting National Park in Borneo are just a few of the best places to explore in Indonesia .  

Safety and Travel Advice Indonesia 

Travelers planning to visit the captivating archipelago of Indonesia should follow precautions to ensure a safe adventure. The following guidance, provided by the Indonesian government, will help visitors make the most of their experience in this diverse country.

Crime and Safety in Indonesia: Although Indonesia is relatively safe, petty theft can occur. Keep your belongings secure and out of sight, particularly when riding a scooter. Some regions in Indonesia have their own risks, and while typically off the tourist trail, make sure to follow the advice of the local government as to whether an area is safe to visit. 

Find out more about travel safety

Natural Disasters: Indonesia is susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic activity. While these are relatively rare, check before you travel to these areas and register with your embassy to receive emergency updates on the go. 

Cultural Sensitivity: As Indonesia is a highly religious country, learning and respecting local customs is essential. This includes wearing appropriate clothing, particularly when visiting places of worship or local homes, and being mindful when taking photographs, always asking permission first. 

Traffic in Indonesia: Traffic can be hectic, especially in popular tourist areas and big cities. The most common mode of transport is riding a scooter, so always wear a helmet and protective clothing. If you’re driving, make sure you have the correct paperwork. Alternatively, hiring a driver can be a much safer (and cooler!) way to get around. 

Travel Insurance: Before traveling to Indonesia, make sure to get travel insurance. You can never predict what might happen, from flight cancellations to medical emergencies. Having insurance will ensure a worry-free trip.

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The Ultimate Indonesia Travel Guide: 15 Essential Tips for Your First Trip

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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.

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7. Guard Against Theft

8. take care when drinking alcohol.

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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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8 Days in Indonesia: A Travel Itinerary From Jakarta to Bali

Indonesia might induce a bit of analysis paralysis in even the most experienced traveler—after all, the archipelago has over 17,000 islands—but the beginning Indonesia traveler can get the most out of their visit by limiting their trip to the two neighboring islands of Java and Bali.

Java is one of the most densely populated islands in Southeast Asia , and its long heritage of indigenous Javanese culture makes the place a must-see for any traveler visiting the region. Our itinerary's Java leg will include stays in  Jakarta (Indonesia's bustling, engorged capital) and Yogyakarta (a center for Javanese culture) before jetting over to Bali just over the Bali Strait.

Our Bali leg will involve a day in South Bali , before taking a short drive up to Central Bali and Ubud , where you can experience the indigenous Balinese culture at its proudest and most refined.

However, before undertaking any trip to Indonesia, you should review the following travel basics:

• Indonesia travel information : Learn all about Indonesia's visa requirements, currency, and safety guidelines for foreign travelers.​
• Money and money changers in Bali : Learn about the local currency, how to change dollars and pounds to the Indonesian rupiah (IDR), and where to have your foreign currency exchanged while on the island of Bali.​
• Drug laws in Bali and the rest of Indonesia: Drug possession and trafficking in Bali and the rest of Indonesia can get you in deep trouble so it's wise to understand the laws.

Day 1: Jakarta's Historical Sites

On your first day, you'll fly into the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta, at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Nicknamed the "Big Durian,” this sprawling megalopolis covers over 290 square miles in the western part of Java. Once you've checked into your hotel, either in Central Jakarta or in North Jakarta—budget travelers will love the cheap and plentiful budget hotels in Jakarta—your tour of the "Big Durian" can begin.

Jakarta's reputation as a polluted, traffic-choked city has, unfortunately, preceded it, but nobody should miss the chance to tour this unique city. Jakarta is an interesting study in Indonesia's modern history, as it used to be the center of the Dutch colonial presence in the "East Indies,” as Indonesia was called at the time, and entered the postwar years under the sway of the charismatic but ultimately doomed President Sukarno. The Dutch colonizers and the strongman that replaced them shaped Jakarta's most popular landmarks.

Visitors should start with a visit to Fatahillah Square in the north of the city, the crumbling former Dutch colonial capital. The vast square used to be a venue for public executions, while the former statehouse behind it is now a museum dedicated to Indonesia's colonial history.

Next, move south to Central Jakarta, and you travel in time from the 19th to the 20th century, where Indonesia's first president Sukarno solidified his place in Indonesia's history with several notable buildings.

The Monas (short for "national monument" in Indonesian) towers over Central Jakarta, the navel of a plaza that is itself surrounded by government buildings and the Presidential Palace. Book a tour to the very top of the Monas to get a bird's eye view of Central Jakarta. Then, just a short distance away, you can visit Istiqlal Mosque —the biggest mosque in Southeast Asia, whose size is very appropriate for the biggest Islamic nation in the region.

Make a retail detour to Jalan Surabaya Antique Market , where you can look over a treasure trove of Indonesian antiques, old shadow puppets, salvaged ship parts, used luggage, and vinyl LPs, before finishing off your day with a visit to a Padang restaurant , where you can try a vast range of Indonesian dishes served on little plates, along with all the rice you can eat.

Day 2: Bandung

Head to just a little south of the city of Jakarta is the city of Bandung , another Dutch-immigrant-created town nestled among mountains along a river basin. You should be able to drive or take a bus between the two fairly quickly, but we recommend departing early on your second day to make the most of the daylight hours.

Bandung is highly influenced by Dutch visitors who had hoped to make the city the new capital of the nation. This immediately inspired an influx of residents when it was first established, which eventually resulted in the creation of the sprawling city full of fine dining, European-inspired custom boutiques, and arts and cultural spots visitors enjoy today.

Once you arrive in Bandung, you can head over to Tangkuban Perahu, a volcano just north of the city (pictured above). Although the last time this volcano erupted was in 2013, the volcano is still considered active and you should check before planning a visit to this beautiful location.

After the volcano, you’ll not want to miss checking out some of the many, many tea plantations in and around the city of Bandung, most of which have existed and been in use since the Dutch immigrants first tried to claim power over the region.

You’ll then want to make it back into the city before nightfall to check into your hotel—we recommend the Dusun Bambu’s Room Facilities—and grab a bite to eat at any number of great restaurants in the area—ask your hotel concierge or consult TripAdvisor’s list of “Best Places to Eat in Bandung” to plan your dinner or simply wander around until something suits your tastes.

Day 3: Bandung

Whether or not you decide to stay at the Dusun Bambu Family Leisure Park, you’ll want to make your way there to start off your second day in Bandung to fully immerse yourself in Sudanese culture in a fun and environmentally friendly eco-tourism spot.

Here, you’ll be able to dine in a birdcage-inspired restaurant held aloft on stilts or in any number of great Sudanese establishments. Fun for the whole family includes rowing around on the waterfront, riding horses, petting rabbits, or playing on the uniquely designed kid’s playground.

You can easily spend the whole day at Dusun Bambu, but we recommend moving on to explore another great cultural venue: Saung Angklung Udjo, a one-stop workshop that teaches children of all ages about the music and culture of Indonesia. Here, you can experience a live concert, or even learn to play one of the traditional instruments taught at this unique center for art and culture.

Once you’ve finished with Saung Angklung Udjo, we recommend getting another great meal from one of Bandung’s many great restaurants before heading back to the hotel and calling it an early night—you’ll need to be awake quite early for another day of travel on day four of your trek. 

Day 4: Borobudur & Prambanan

Early in the morning, board a bus or a hired car to take you to the massive Buddhist mandala known as Borobudur, more than an hour's drive from Yogyakarta. The walkways leading up to the top levels are decorated with 2,672 relief panels that tell stories of the Buddha's life and traditional Buddhist parables.

After you return from Borobudur, spend the noontime hours chasing the shade and pursuing retail therapy in Yogyakarta: buying silver at Kota Gede or watch batik being made in many workshops across the city, prior to buying your favorite swatches.

Not far from Yogyakarta's city borders, you can visit Candi Prambanan, an ancient Hindu temple complex that keeps coming back from the dead—several earthquakes have shaken the temple apart, but the local government keeps putting the pieces back together.

After exploring the temple grounds, book a seat to watch the Ramayana dance performance at Prambanan, performed on an open-air stage in front of the majestically-lit Prambanan temples.

Day 5: Yogyakarta's Kraton

First things first: You'll want to visit the very center of Yogyakarta, the Kraton , an expansive palace compound that is the home of Indonesia's only ruling Sultan, Hamengkubuwono IX.

Yogyakarta's social, cultural, and spiritual life revolves around the Sultan and his palace: Daily Javanese entertainments take place at the palace's Bangsal Sri Manganti pavilion, and the massive Alun-Alun Utara field north of the main residential area of the palace hosts the yearly Pasar Malam (night market) that accompanies the Sekaten , a week-long celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birth.

Exploring the Kraton will take about two hours to complete; afterward, you can explore the museums and tourist attractions around the Kraton, which are all accessible via becak (Yogyakarta's rickshaws) from the palace gates.

Start with a lunch of gudeg at Sentra Gudeg Wijilan , a clump of eateries located east of Alun-Alun Utara along Jalan Wijilan. Gudeg is Yogyakarta's signature dish: a jackfruit-based savory preparation served hot with rice, crispy beef skin, and hard-boiled egg.

Afterward, explore the other attractions nearby: the Museum Kereta , which collects the Sultan's 23 ornate carriages; the Taman Sari, a former swimming, and bathing complex built for the Sultan's use; and Masjid Gede Kauman , Yogyakarta's Westminster Abbey equivalent, immediately across the Alun-Alun Utara.

Day 5: South Bali

Fly in early from Yogyakarta to Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport (compare prices on flights from Adisucipto Airport in Yogyakarta to Ngurah Rai in Bali) to get a head start on the Bali leg of our Indonesia itinerary.

For your first night, stay in South Bali, the tourist epicenter of the island. You have plenty of accommodations to choose from in these parts.

There's plenty to do within an hour's drive of your South Bali resort, but for your first day, we suggest you hit the following spots:

• Visit the world's biggest statue of Vishnu (as yet unfinished) at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
• Go shopping at one of South Bali's many shopping centers.
• Drive all the way to Pura Luhur Uluwatu and watch the area's Kecak and fire dance .
• On the way back from Uluwatu, stop by Jimbaran, Bali to dine right on the beach.

Day 6: Central Bali

Early in the morning, take the hour-and-a-half drive up from South Bali to Ubud in Central Bali, where Bali's magnificent culture lives a charmed life. As you arrive, make sure you have your accommodations lined up.

In the daytime, check out the many art galleries & museums in Ubud, and see why Ubud's reputation as an art and culture hub is so richly deserved. The Museum Puri Lukisan presents modern 20th-century artwork produced by native Balinese while the Blanco Renaissance Museum showcases artwork created by an expatriate artist whose creative juices ran wild as he settled into Ubud.

Before 12-noon strikes, queue up at the Warung Ibu Oka to secure a table early; this open-air restaurant serves babi guling , or Balinese roast pig, for an extremely small number of diners every day. The restaurant is only open for lunch and closes as soon as the last pig is chopped up and served.

From Warung Ibu Oka, walk down Jalan Monkey Forest to do an afternoon tour of Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest at the very end of the road, at the bottom of the slope. The forest and temples within will take about an hour or two to see in full.

Afterward, trudge back up to the Ubud town center to watch a traditional dance performance at Ubud Palace; the performances in town re-enact classic Hindu legends, performed by dancers in colorful, traditional costumes.

Day 7: Taking it Easy in Ubud

After the excitement of the past few days, it's now time to take it easy—and where better to kick back than infamously laid-back Ubud?

Ubud's many spas and meditation centers perform all types of Eastern and Western wellness techniques, from massage to reiki healing to acupuncture to herbal medicine.

Your last day in Ubud is also a great time to sample Ubud's shopping scene: Beginning from the Ubud Art Market across the street from the royal palace (pictured above), you can explore the many boutiques, shops, and stalls radiating from the center of Ubud to the periphery. Jalan Monkey Forest, in particular, has plenty of interesting upscale shopping finds .

Day 8: Tanjung Benoa

For your return engagement to South Bali, go to the eastern part and stay in Tanjung Benoa, the aquasports center of the island. The beach off Tanjung Benoa is no good for surfing, but it's encouraged a more laid-back tourist scene compared to more hectic Kuta on the other side of the island. Spend the morning learning a new aquasport, then tuck in at one of the restaurants in Tanjung Benoa before enjoying a spa break at the Thalasso Bali Spa.

In the evening, catch the Devdan performance at the Bali Nusa Dua Theatre, to see Indonesia's rich dance heritage condensed into a single, spectacular two-hour show: An excellent way to end your long week in Indonesia.

3 Weeks in Indonesia: A Fully Loaded Itinerary

Ten Unforgettable Bandung, Indonesia Experiences

Top Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Bali's Regions & Beaches, Decoded

The Top 15 Things to Do in Indonesia

Top Things to Do in Jakarta

The Yogyakarta Kraton, Central Java, Indonesia

10 Best Things to Do in South Bali

Bali Guide: Planning Your Trip

Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia

Guide to Bali's Watersports Hotspot Tanjung Benoa

8 Top Cultural and Natural Explorations to Discover in East Bali

Art Galleries & Museums in Ubud, Bali

The 10 Best Restaurants in Bali

How to Cope When a Tsunami Strikes Bali

Shopping at Yogyakarta's Jalan Malioboro

Ultimate Indonesia 10 Days Travel Itinerary – best places to visit in Indonesia with chill and adventure (on 3 islands!)

Explore the best places to visit in Indonesia and make the most of your stay with this Indonesia 10-day travel itinerary covering the adventurous activities in Java, the lush greenery of Bali, and relaxing beaches in Gili islands.

Indonesia is a diverse country. It has exciting activities for adventure lovers, stunning temples for every architecture fan, and everyone looking for a relaxing time will find it by the sea. If you want to combine the colorful marine life, lush jungles, rich culture of Bali, and pristine beaches of Gili Islands, together with climbing an active volcano and discovering the hardest job in the world – this Indonesia 10 days travel itinerary is just for you. If you are wondering where to stay in Bali , I have you covered.

The map with the exact locations of the places at the bottom of the post.

This post might contain affiliate links. More details here .

Indonesia 10 days travel itinerary – best places to visit in indonesia.

There are a lot of places to visit in Indonesia in 10 days, and below I cover the best ones. 

Day 1 – arriving in Bali

I recommend starting or ending in Bali – even with many tourists, the island is always worth visiting. To get the most out of the short time in Bali, I recommend taking some 2 or 3-day tours, that would take care of all the transport and logistics, such as this one “Three Day Island Tour “, covering the main attractions.

If you have a bit more time and energy to organize things on your own, I share my tips below.

Depending on where in the world you come from, the flight to Bali might be a long and exhausting one. Spend the first day relaxing and getting your energy back. A good option is to visit the white sand beaches of Jimbaran and try the best seafood. The place gets very busy in the evening and the top tables with a romantic view can get booked very quickly.

Tip: If you come around lunchtime, you will have the whole beach for yourself and plenty of restaurants to choose from.

This day tour covers the main points on the south coast of Bali, including a seafood dinner in Jimbaran. See the island’s most iconic temple, Tanah Lot, admire Suluban Beach’s picturesque caves, and enjoy an optional Kecak show – check the tour here .

You can find nice accommodation in the area or, like us, move closer to Ubud, where you can enjoy the freshness of the jungle. Deciding on where to stay in Ubud might be a bit challenging, because of different areas and your interests, but here are a few suggestions.

Where to stay in Ubud:

• Luxury: Alila Ubud – a beautiful hotel located in the middle of the jungle with a wonderful infinity pool. We stayed there for my birthday in a traditional bungalow and loved it! Check availability and the best prices here.
• Mid-range: Villa D’Bisma – hotel with outdoor pool, overlooking the rice terraces, located close to the Ubud Monkey Forest. We even had a visit from monkeys there.
• Budget:  – bungalows with terraces as a budget option in Ubud Sila Urip Guest House (dormitory beds) – lush garden and relaxing terrace, great to mingle with other travelers Bali Backpackers Hostel (dormitory beds) – the best value for money, comfy beds, and friendly staff

Read more: How to plan a perfect trip to Asia

Day 2 – get a bali feel.

Explore Ubud town and its surroundings. You can rent a motorbike, get a driver, walk around the places in town, or take a highly rated small group guided tour, including Ubud, and Tanah Lot .

In the evening make sure to go to the traditional Bali dance performance, it’s so worth it. 

Before that, book a next-day trip to the Gili islands. This can be easily done by one of the many tour providers, whose offices are located on the main street in Ubud. Walk around and compare prices. We got our return trip from Ubud to Gili Air for 500k IDR.

For more luxury trips, including a night at a beachfront resort, you can take a private 2-day tour from Bali and explore all 3 Gili Islands on a private boat cruise with time to swim and snorkel.

Day 3 – time for Gili islands

Spend your morning walking around Ubud market and some beautiful temples. Have breakfast by Pura Taman Saraswati, a temple overlooking the pond with lilies, before the bus departure to the Gili islands. The van will take you to Padang Bai, where the speedboats to Gili Islands leave from. You will arrive at Gili Island in the afternoon. We chose to stay on the peaceful Gili Air, but the boat goes to all three of the islands, so you can choose a different one. In the evening, have a leisurely dinner by the beach and watch a stunning sunset.

Where to stay in Gili Air:

• Luxury: PinkCoco Gili Air – exceptional resort located just by the beach. The view of the sea from the rooms and pink accents in the stylish interior. Check the best prices here.
• Midrange: Nanas Homestay – beautiful cottages with your own terrace, hammock, and yummy Indonesian breakfast. Check availability.
• Budget:  Beranda Ecolodge – a beautiful hostel with a traditional Indonesian setting, outdoor swimming pools, and a garden. Bunk beds in shared rooms and all the rooms have a balcony or terrace. Check availability here.

Day 4 – explore the underwater paradise

I recommend you wake up early enough to catch the best sunrise, that you can possibly imagine. The views over to Lombok’s highest volcano – Mt. Rinjani, mist rising from the valleys, and pink fluffy clouds covering the sky, will take your breath away.

After sunrise, you can get a typical Indonesian breakfast in one of the cafes or if you’re staying in the Airbnb/hostel, it would normally be included in the price.

A great way to spend the rest of the morning is to go on a snorkeling trip – swimming with turtles and admiring the colorful fish and coral. The boats usually depart by 10:00 am and are back by 14:30 pm. They will take you to all three Gili islands and the best snorkeling spots, including Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, where you can have lunch by the sea.  The price for the trip (not including lunch) is around 100k IDR per person.

There are also private tours that you can take from Bali, that include private snorkeling tour from the boat, such as this one “Private 3-Day Gili Islands Tour with Snorkeling”.

After returning, you can catch a yoga session or chill by the beach. The island is tiny, so it’s great just to walk around it, trying to find all the famous (and highly Instagrammable) swings. If you are lucky you can even spot the huge lizards, that belong to the same family as famous Komodo dragons.

Don’t miss the interior of the island, as this is where the local people live. Try some local street food called “Bakso” – meatballs with spicy sauce. In the evening treat yourself to a cocktail by the beach under the stars.

Day 5 – back to Bali

You can spend your last morning in Gili Air snorkeling by the shore or enjoying the beautiful views from the beach before jumping on a speedboat, that will take you back to Bali. If you have more time, you can spend it around Padang Bai and go to the Blue Lagoon.

From there you can head north-east towards Amed and finish the Bali loop by going to Pemuteran on the north (our days 6 & 7), or head back to Ubud and take your way from there. You can also try some other interesting experiences in Bali.

Initially, we had plans to go to Amed, but because of the high risk of the volcano eruption the whole area was closed off, so we needed to change our plans.

If you decide to go back to Ubud, the driver might drop you off close to the Monkey forest , so you can visit it on the way. With a bit more time, it’s a good idea to include a Campuhan Ridge Walk, which boasts gorgeous hillside views. This walking tour includes the Ubud Monkey Forest, a Campuhan Ridge Walk, the water temple of Saraswati, and Ubud Palace.

In the evening, organize your next-day trip to Munduk with a trip through some must-see places in Bali. The driver with a drop-off in Munduk cost us 650k IDR per car for 2 people, which seemed like a reasonable price. Make sure you agree on the exact stops before.

Read more: Tips for traveling light – ultimate packing list for a trip to Indonesia

Day 6 – bali interior.

Be prepared for an exciting day full of sightseeing and ever-changing scenery.

If you would like to visit all the major sites in one day but come back to the same location afterward, this tour lasts 10 hours and includes temples, rice fields, and Bali’s best sunset.

Below was our plan for this day, leaving at 7 a.m .

• Bali Rice terraces  – beautiful green terraces with growing rice. 
• Pura Gunung Kawi  – a temple with stone carvings 
• Pura Tirta Empul – the holy w ater temple
• Geopark Global UNESCO Batur – View the Mount Batur v olcano and stop for lunch. We also visited the geological institute in town. If you have one more day you could extend your stay in the area and go down the villages around the volcano and Lake Batur or climb the mountain in the morning for the sunrise.
• Pura Tegeh Kahuripan (Pura Puncak Penulisan) – a local temple located on top of the highest hill. To get to the top you need to walk several flights of stairs, but it’s worth it!
• The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple   – a picturesque temple complex of significant importance, located by the lake  – is the one that you can see on all the postcards and guidebook covers.
• Twin Lakes and the viewpoints – handmade platforms, swings, nests, and many more, where you can take the perfect Instagram picture 😉 W e were a couple of minutes late and the platforms were closed, so if you want to take those cool photos, make sure to get there a bit earlier.
• Entry gate to the golf course – because it’s cool! The famous gate is the Handara Golf Course gate – an entrance to the Resort and Golf Course.
• Munduk – a green village in the hills with beautiful waterfalls nearby, that’s where you can experience real Bali countryside

Where to stay in Bali, Munduk:

• Luxury: Nadira Bali Resort & Villa – an outdoor pool and beautiful villas with an amazing views. Check availability.
• Midrange: Lesong Hotel and Restaurant – this hotel has an incredible location, in the middle of the rice fields. You will feel a real Bali spirit while staying there. Check availability.
• Budget: Made Oka Homestay and Warung – amazing view of the valley and the hills around. Great breakfast (included). Check availability here.

Day 7 – Munduk waterfalls

In the morning visit the stunning Munduk waterfalls. The hike should take you around 2-3 hours and you can visit a few nice places. Leave early to have them all to yourself. Entry to waterfalls is 10k IDR. 

Arrange the car to go to Pemuteran with a few stops on the way. The price for the car is set by the local tourist agency and is 350k IDR (for the end of 2017).

On the way we visited:

• Banjar hot springs  – Holy hot springs, Entrance 20k IDR
• Brahmavihara-Arama – the only Buddhist temple in Bali, Free entrance

Arrive at Pemuteran, and go afternoon snorkeling just off the beach. Visit Turtle Hatchery in Pemuteran with cute baby turtles.

In the evening take a walk or a ride (we hitch-hiked) to the nearby Pura Pabean temple for the sunset with monkeys and wonderful views of Java. 

Where to stay in Pemuteran:

• Suka Sari cottages – an outdoor bathroom, private terrace, and swimming pool. Close to the beach. Check availability here.

Read more: Singapore in 24 hours – what to visit in one day in Singapore

Day 8 – pemuteran, black beach, and off to java.

Spend the morning at the beach, snorkeling in the famous Reef project.

In the afternoon take a bemo (local bus) to Gilimanuk to catch the ferry to East Java. The ferry doesn’t take long, but may sometimes wait on the water for an extended period (ours did).

In Java, you will arrive in Banyuwangi, which is a base for climbing the Ijen volcano . Check out the best way to do the Ijen hike with or without a tour and travel to the volcano for the sunrise. We were planning to just get a driver and do a climb ourselves, but we met an Indonesian guy who offered us the whole package (including the guide, masks, and visit to the waterfall and coffee plantations) for a much better price. Go to sleep early so you can wake up for the hike! 

In case you want to go back to Bali and do Ijen as a day tour , this overnight trip from Bali to Mount Ijen has great reviews .

Day 9 – Ijen, the blue flames, and the most dangerous job in the world

Wake up in the middle of the night to get to the Ijen volcano around 1-2 a.m. The earlier the better, but you might have a hard time convincing the drivers to depart early, especially with other passengers.

Climb the Ijen volcano (75 minutes one way), and go down the crater (30 minutes ) to watch the famous blue flames. Watch the sunrise and talk to the miners who work in the active sulfur mine carrying 90 kg up the crater and down the mountain, sometimes only in flip-flops! This place is a real eye-opener and it’s very worth seeing. More details, together with the full guide to the Ijen hike here .

After the climb, we went to visit the nearby waterfall and coffee plantations as a part of the tour. After that, go back to town, catch a few hours of sleep, and get an afternoon train to Probolinggo (I recommend booking in advance).

Day 10 – climbing the active volcano

Wake up early and find a bus going from Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang, which is the base of Mount Bromo – an active volcano. The journey takes a couple of hours and the bemos only leave when they are full (or if you pay for the empty seats).

After arriving in Cemoro Lawang, you can go and explore the area. We climbed the Bromo crater in the afternoon with no crowds and no need to pay for it. For more details about the Mount Bromo hike click here .

Go to sleep early as you need to wake up at night in time for another sunrise.

Are you looking to do this trip but from Bali? This Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater’s Blue Fire 3-Day Tour covers both volcanoes and then brings you back to Bali.

Read more: How to travel more with a full-time job

*Day 11 – Sunrise above Bromo and departure

Wake up around 1 a.m. and walk to one of the viewing points. That’s a way of watching Mount Bromo sunrise for free, instead of the organized tour – and I highly recommend this way. The number of cars that were going to one spot chosen by the tour companies was INSANE. There are several viewing spots and they get crowded, so try to arrive there early. You can read more about Mount Bromo hike with no crowds here.

After the sunrise, go back to the hotel and catch a bus back to Probolinggo. From there get a train to Surabaya.

In Surabaya make your way to the airport where you can fly to Jakarta and catch the flight back home (or to the next destination). 

*The 11th day can be skipped and the sunrise can be done on the previous day if you catch the morning train from  Banyuwangi (Ijen base) to Probolinggo instead of the afternoon one. It requires less sleeping time, but it’s doable.

What to pack for the Indonesia trip

• Suncream – I use this suncream as it has great protection, good skincare, and is perfect for kids and adults on the face and body. It is also reef-safe!
• Sunglasses – The sun in Indonesia is strong and you need to protect your eyes. Check UV sunglasses at a good price here.
• Hat or a scarf for sun protection – you don’t want to get headaches from too much sun. Check prices and models here.
• Hiking shoes for volcanoes–  Merrell   has good hiking shoes.   Check the price and models here.
• Reusable water bottle or Filter bottle– save plastic and fill in the small reusable bottle from bigger water bottles. I often use insulated bottles like this one to keep the drink hot or cold for a long time. If you don’t have access to refilling water, then you can use a water bottle with a filter like LifeStraw to have clean water on the go. Check the price here .
• Small  day backpack
• Camera with landscape lens – I use  Fuji X-E1   and  Samyang 12mm , which I used to capture photos in this post.
• Waterproof action camera – I don’t have GoPro, but a cheaper version of it, and it does a good job – AKASO EK7000 . Great for underwater shots and anything adventure-related – Check price.
• Light jacket/jumper 

Map for the Indonesia 10 days travel itinerary

Posted: 2018, Updated: 2023

What do you think about our Indonesia 10-day itinerary? What else would you add to it? Would you take something out? Let me know in the comments!

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40 thoughts on “ Ultimate Indonesia 10 Days Travel Itinerary – best places to visit in Indonesia with chill and adventure (on 3 islands!) ”

Thanks for a very detailed guide! 🙂

Thanks for stopping by!

Thank you for sharing! I can’t wait to have the opportunity to travel to different countries more! So far I have only been to 3! I guess that’s more than most 🙂 Indonesia looks beautiful! I will refer to this post when I visit!

3 is definitely a good start, and the numbers don’t matter anyway, you can travel in your own country and be happy about it and this is what matters the most 🙂 Indonesia is worth a visit though, so maybe you can do it yours 4th 😉

This is so informative & would be so helpful for those traveling around Indonesia! Great post!

Thanks, Dani!

Bali has been number one on my bucket list for so long – I have finally arrived in Australia so I am so so close to Bali hopefully I can tick it off by the end of the year!! So many beautiful images, The Ijen volcano looks incredible, Indonesia looks like an amazing adventure!!

Bali is great, but I highly recommend going a bit beyond it too and explore other islands in Indonesia, they all have so much to offer! I hope you’ll be able to visit it 🙂

So useful! I’m going to Indonesia in 3 weeks and have a few unscheduled days! The Ijen volcano trip looks so interesting… I need to figure out if that’s feasible for me!

Have fun! I’m sure you’re gonna love it 🙂

Fantastic guide! Definitely pinning it for later when I actually find time to go there.

Thank you! I hope you will find time soon – it’s worth it!

Such beautiful photos! I went to Indonesia and really hated Denpasar but I LOVED Ubud and would go back there in a heartbeat. I should add a few more of these places for the next time I go back!

I avoided Denpasar and Kuta, because of those reasons, and I had really good time in Bali 🙂

Great itinerary and such gorgeous photos! Would love to explore more of Indonesia, so far we’ve only made it to Bali. Pinning for a future trip!

Thank you! Those are places that can be visited on short trips from Bali too, so worth giving them a go 🙂

I am a first time Indonesian traveler. I love this itinerary but I had questions about traveling around the country. How did you get around bali? Also, is it affordable to take taxis from place to place or would you recommend another method to get around that’s affordable?

Also, I was looking into a day trip to Komodo Island do you know if it is possible to add a day to this itinerary for an 11 day trip? Or do you have any recommendations to make a day trip to komodo island possible?

I love your blog! Thanks so much for your help.

Hi Scarlett, thanks for coming by! To go around Bali, there are several options, with the most popular being motorbikes (only if you know how to drive) and taxis or even cheaper Uber/Grab (an Asian Uber). We decided to get a car with a driver, as in our itinerary we were not coming back to the same location, but going north and then to East Java instead. It worked out the best for us. So it depends on your plans, you can try motorbike or Uber/Grab as those are the cheapest. The public transport exists but it’s not very reliable and to cover bigger distances you’d need to change several times. We used it to go from Pemuteran to the ferry for example – it’s written in the post.

We were thinking about Komodo island too, but in my opinion, 1 day is not enough, as there is so much to see in the area. You’d need to fly out in the evening to be ready for the boat for the next morning and then schedule your return after you come back from the trip. It is doable but rushed and expensive. You could skip Gili islands/East Java and do it instead, but it’s up to you (and cheap flight tickets ;)). We also saw massive lizards from Komodo family on Gili Air 🙂

Good luck and enjoy!

Thank you so much for responding! And for being so informative. One last question, I was considering a private driver too where did you go to hire one? Or are there any websites you would recommend for a driver? Thanks so much again.

We found one in Ubud, we were just going around and asking in the tourist offices and taxi drivers. They have different prices and you often need to negotiate 😉 But I’m sure you will find someone even last minute. I had some contacts to another driver from my friend but it was hard to reach him, so we decided to go with someone we found on the street – it’s also good to meet the driver before the trip, so you can see how well his English is and agree on the details 🙂 Good luck!

A really informative post! Just curious as to why you decided to skip Lombok?

Thanks, we didn’t have time for Lombok unfortunately and we decided it was not worth it going there just for 1 or 2 days, as there is so much to see. I’d love to climb the volcano there though 🙂

It’s such a bummer you missed out on Amed. I live in Bali and my partner is from Amed. I was in Amed at th time when people were evacuated from the volcano TO Amed. The roads were never closed to Amed and we found out that the drivers in Ubud and other areas were telling people the roads were closed even though they weren’t (we presumed to keep them spending in their areas/ or possibly misinformation).

Oh no, that’s a shame. Hopefully, I’ll make it there next time!

As I read the itinerary I was wondering if there any day trips/ tours available from gili air to different sites in lombok?

I think there is a boat from Gili Air to Lombok and I am sure that there are some excursions organized too. But I don’t know more details, as we didn’t have time for it, so we didn’t look 🙂

You just Amazing. Thank’s for write this. i hope you can be my travelmates one day here in Indonesia.

Glad you like it! 😉

Look like you spend a lot of time bringing this guide up. Indonesia is one in travel list. Great story.

We just came back from Bali 🙂 For our next trip we want to visit the Volcano like you did!

Thanks for this post!

I can highly recommend it 🙂

Do you have an idea of the daily expenses on a low budget profile? And was there any cool beach good for surfing along the way on your itinerary? Thanks

Hi, If you use public transport (tricky in Bali though), eat street food and stay in hostels, then you can travel on very low budget. Street food costs from $0.5-$3 and it’s very filling. You can find local hostels from as low as $2 – you can find a lot of them on booking, just sort by price: https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?region=835&aid=1293006&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1 I don’t surf, so I am not sure about the exact spots, but I know that south of Bali is popular for surfing and the waves in Jimbaran beach were very strong, when I was there.

Wow! This looks like an amazing Intenerary and perfect for a solo traveler.

Thanks, Marie!

Your literary is so informative, do u think you can mail it to me plz. Amazing photos, i wonder who took your pics!!! ?

Thank you! You can get itinerary in pdf when you sign up on the newsletter – sign up is in the post 🙂

I am trying to plan a trip to Indonesia and was wondering how much your trip cost for the 10 days doing all the activities, food, stay, travel, etc. cost!

Hi Sarah, It’s hard to estimate the general cost as everyone has a different travelling style – you can do it on the cheap staying in the hostels, eating local food in small street food stands and not taking any organized tours, or you can spend a lot of money staying in the resorts, eating in the restaurants with the best view and traveling in a private car. So it really depends 🙂 Good luck!

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The Ideal Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months

04/17/2018 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

When the sun rose over the volcano caldera, lighting up the sky in shades of orange, pink, and yellow, it illuminated the electric blue lake and the blue flames of the volcano faded into the light. I looked at the French guy next to me, whom I’d met during the hike up with the stars, and we smiled in unison. That moment would feature on the highlight reel of my life.

This wasn’t the first time an experience in Indonesia would make that reel. There were the Manta rays in the water, the orangutans swinging through the trees and the friendly people who all made me realize, there’s something magnetic about Indonesia. It’s so much more than just Bali.

The first time I visited Indonesia I budgeted six weeks thinking that would surely be enough to see all of the things that I wanted to see. I quickly came to realize that Indonesia is huge and that each island has its own unique food, culture, language, and often its own religion as well. Therefore each island is a destination in itself where one could spend months or years.

I say this not to discourage, but rather to help create some realistic expectations for your Indonesia itinerary. There are literally thousands of islands in the world’s fourth most populated country spanning close to 2 million square kilometers (over 735k square miles).

With that in mind here are some itinerary suggestions for 2 weeks to 2 months in Indonesia:

2 Weeks in Indonesia:

If you only have two or fewer weeks, I strongly suggest picking one or two regions and doing them justice, like only Lombok and Bali, or only Flores and Raja Ampat. Each are so special in their own way and in such a big country, it could otherwise feel like all you’re doing is rushing and moving around. Here’s a great option:

Days 1-4: Sumatra

Fly into Medan and take a bus bound for Bukit Lawang. This will take most of the afternoon. Avoid Medan, really, there’s nothing to see there.

Book a day trek into the jungle to see the Orangutans. These are best organized with guides who grew up in the jungle and know how to track the Orangutans without offering them food. Spend a day in Bukit Lawang before or after and inner tube down the river, enjoying the company of the incredibly friendly locals.

Bus back to Medan and fly out to Bali.

Days 5-10: Bali & Nusa Islands

While most visitors to Indonesia flock to Bali, I tend to avoid it since the traffic can be hectic and many of the areas are Westernized, which I like to avoid when I travel. That said, Ubud and Canggu are traveler favorites and Keramas is a personal favorite of mine, and since Bali is so easy to fly into, consider spending a couple of days in one or the other before moving onto the Nusa Islands.

Take a ferry from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan or Penida and spend 3 days exploring these lovely islands – visit gorgeous beaches, snorkel with Manta rays, learn to surf, or chill at one of the many beachfront pools and cafes. From Lembongan, it’s easy to ride a motorbike over the bridge to Ceningan for a day trip, or consider staying on Ceningan for a more laid-back vibe. This is popular with surfers as well and boasts much smaller crowds than Bali. Click here for the perfect Nusa Islands itinerary.

Days 11-14: Lombok

Just a 2-hour fast boat over from the Nusa islands, or a short flight over from Bali, Lombok is yet again wildly different from the other islands you would have experienced with this itinerary, and well worth experiencing. Lombok is much quieter, more rural, and rugged.

You’ll have to make some choices here between the Gili islands just off the coast, trekking the Rinjani volcano, which usually takes 3 days and 2 nights, or heading down south to Kuta for some gorgeous beaches and surfing. There are also incredible waterfalls all over Lombok to check out. The adventure there can be endless. This guide can help you pick and choose which activities on the island call to you the most.

That’s one of many possible adventures for 2 weeks in Indonesia, though if you keep reading, you can pick and choose more options below.

First Name:

1 month in Indonesia

You’ve got a full month in Indonesia – fantastic! You can take a bit more time in each place and rush around a little bit less. I also highly suggest adding diving into your itinerary, as Indonesia has some of the best in the world, truly!

Repeat the 2-week itinerary, but give yourself more time in each place and expand it to 21 days, spending extra time in Sumatra and adding in Pulau Weh for a quiet, secluded island or Lake Tobah to stay on an island within a lake within an island (say that ten times fast), or spending more time on Lombok so that you can enjoy the beaches, do the Rinjani trek, see the waterfalls, and spend some time on the Gili islands .

From there, this itinerary can go one of two ways – the diving route or the volcano route. If you’re into diving:

Days 22-30: East Java

If you go this route, reverse Lombok and Bali and fly into Lombok from Medan, Sumatra. Spend time enjoying Lombok, then fly or boat to Bali and after a few days there, head to the Ubung bus terminal and buy an onward ticket to Bondowoso, ferry included. Traveling to the base of Kawah Ijen will take most of the day.

Once on Java, we’ll head to Kawah Ijen, the experience I referenced in the opening of this post, which still ranks at the top of my list over five years of travels and adventures later. Kawah Ijen is famous for its blue flames and the amazingly strong sulfur miners who carry loads up and down the volcano all day and night. Hike in with the stars to see the flames and watch the sunrise from the crater rim. More on how to do it independently of a tour here.

Next, take a bus to Surabaya via Probolinggo and onwards to Cemoro Lawang to trek or drive to the Bromo volcano for sunrise – one of the most famous volcanos in Indonesia. More on how to do that here.

From there, bus back down to Surabaya and bus or train to Yogyakarta to see the Borobudur temple. This temple was built in the 9th century and represents a mix of Buddhism and ancestor worship. It’s a unique temple in Java that you won’t see a match for in the rest of Southeast Asia. From there, fly out of Yogyakarta home or to your next destination.

Days 22-30: Komodo

It’s hard to beat Indonesia when it comes to diving and though there are many places with fantastic dive spots, Komodo and Raja Ampat reign supreme.

Komodo is a bit cheaper and easier to get to, flying into Flores and hopping onto a dive boat from there. The corals are fantastic, Manta rays are regularly sighted, and the scenery is gorgeous as well. Plus, you get to see the famous Komodo dragon on Rinca, the island pictured above.

Komodo’s main season is April through December, though you can dive there year round. If you’re in Indonesia during the rainy season, consider spending a bit less time in Bali, or cutting out Sumatra, and spending 11 days to two weeks in Raja Ampat, flying into Sorong, West Papua. While it’s possible to get on a dive boat in Komodo for just three or six days, most dive trips in Raja Ampat are longer, and it does tend to be more expensive. That said, the abundance and diversity of fish is mind-blowing, and the corals are varied, plentiful, and vibrant. Plus, the islands are incredible too. It’s easily one of the best trips I’ve ever been on.  Read more on diving in Raja Ampat here.

Note that both Komodo and Raja Ampat have notoriously strong currents and are better suited to divers with some experience. You should have at least your advanced open water before getting on a dive boat in either place. Nitrox is advised.

2 Months in Indonesia

With two months in Indonesia you can take a bit more time in each place, planning ahead much less and opting to spend extra days or even a week here and there in the places that call to you the most.

For this itinerary I suggest allowing for more fluidity, with a few key things planned out in advance such as flights and diving.

Week one: Sumatra

Spend more time in the jungles, on Lake Tobah, or on Pulau Weh. To truly head off the beaten path, head south on this giant island and explore the jungles.

Weeks two through four: Bali, the Nusa Islands, and Lombok

Given how much there is to do on and around Lombok and Bali, slow down, take a bit more time to explore, and take yoga classes, go for hikes on the volcanoes, learn to surf, attend a retreat, or just park in a bamboo bungalow for a week and hang at the beach.

It’s easy to slow down and spend a good chunk of time in this area. My particular favorites are the mainland of Lombok, particularly Kuta’s beaches , and the Nusa islands .

Week five: Sumbawa or East Java

Explore the volcanoes and temples of East Java, or go the other direction and check out Sumbawa, a truly off the beaten path gem that’s perfect for beach bums and especially surfers.

For a wave that has almost nobody else on it, a beach with only a few huts, and the type of tourist who tends to stay for 2-3 months on just this beach, look no further than Sumbawa. This is the next hidden paradise that almost nobody knows about. This is the spot that is only starting to get on the radar of surfers in the know. To get there, the easiest method is a boat with Ozone Adventure from Kuta Lombok.

Weeks six through eight: Diving in Raja Ampat or Komodo

If you’re a diver, then you absolutely must experience Komodo, Raja Ampat, or both. These are easily the best spots for diving in Indonesia and each has the small stuff, the big stuff, and incredible corals. Scroll up to the one-month itinerary for more information on how to get to each and who to book dives with.

With that, you will have had an incredible trip in Indonesia, both in the popular places and in plenty of off the beaten path spots as well. It’s the perfect mix in a country that delivers high value for your money and has great food and friendly people to boot.

Keep in mind this itinerary still only covers a small part of a huge country. There’s also Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Sumba, West Java, West Timor, and so many more! After the four months I’ve spent traveling around Indonesia I still feel I’ve barely scratched the surface, and my list just keeps getting longer!

What are some of your favorite places in Indonesia?

READ NEXT: A guide to Indonesia: Currency exchange rates, more posts, and budgeting guides

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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04/17/2018 at 7:04 am

What a great summary of what you have learned and discovered over your 5+ years of traveling at this locale. If anyone talks with me about traveling to Indonesia, I will send them over to this post. Also, this was very well written, you clearly put some effort on this and it shows!

Dominique | dominiquetravels.com says

04/19/2018 at 12:10 pm

Great itineraries! I’ve never been to Indonesia, and I doubt I’ll go there for longer than 3 weeks at a time so the first itinerary sounds perfect to me! Diving with manta rays would be a dream 🙂

Sara Vozel says

05/09/2018 at 11:11 pm

Great guide! Will definitely be using this when we are in Indonesia!!

Mackenzie says

12/12/2018 at 8:14 am

This guide has helped me shape my itinerary to Indonesia in April and I am so excited! I am doing 6 days at a retreat in Canggu, and then have 6 days to spend in Ubud, Gili Air, Nusa islands, or some combination. Would you recommend splitting the time or just choosing one?

Kristin says

12/12/2018 at 9:02 am

I might pick just one set of islands as well as Ubud. The Nusa islands get the slight edge over the Gilis for me 🙂

03/01/2019 at 8:45 am

If you start from Jakarta, then take a train or bus to Bandung to see kawah putih, then to Yogyakarta to see prambanan and borobudur temple, have some fun in cave pindul, after that go to jepara by bus to go to Karimunjawa Island to have snorkling, go to east java trakking to kawah ijen, baluran, menjangan, go to nusa penida bali, next go to lombok island to see gili and the pink beach, then sailing komodo tour in labuan bajo, after that have an overland tour in flores, go to sumba island and Timor Leste.

Sophie says

06/18/2019 at 6:40 pm

I’ve been researching Indonesia and your website has been very useful—thank you! I had a quick question—did you take anti-malaria pills when you went east of Bali (Nusa Islands, Lombok, Komodo Island, etc.)?

I see that the CDC lists Lombok, for example, as low risk. I was just curious what you did, given your robust experience/time in the area, and as a female traveler:)

06/19/2019 at 9:14 am

I have never taken anti-Malarials in Southeast Asia. I do in Mozambique and other countries where the strains are particularly lethal. However that’s just my preference and I don’t want to give advice on whether one should or should not. You can still get Malaria in Southeast Asia, and also Dengue, I just don’t want to be taking those pills for that long.

The Perfect 3 Week Indonesia Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Indonesia

Lush landscapes. Pristine beaches. Friendly locals. Indonesia is one of the most magnificent destinations in the world!

If you’re planning your Indonesia itinerary and looking for the best things to do in 3 weeks, you’ve come to the right place.

I spent over 12 months in the country and ventured from the volcanoes in Java to the rice terraces in Bali. I backpacked my way overland from Lombok to Sumbawa then to Flores and finally, Sumba Island.

But with only 3 weeks in Indonesia, you won’t have enough time to do everything!

So, to help you craft the perfect trip, this Indonesia travel itinerary will take you to those magnificent landmarks you won’t want to miss. It’s a great balance of adventure and culture for first-time visitors and can be easily customized into a 2 week or 1 month itinerary for Indonesia.

Quick Navigation

How many days in Indonesia

You’ll need at least 3 weeks in Indonesia (or more)! The country is massive and with over 17 000 islands, there are endless amounts of things to do and see.

But not everyone has time on their side, so you need to decide where your priorities lie.

Are you planning a backpacking itinerary for Indonesia? Do you want to travel slowly? Are you in search of natural attractions or cultural sights?

When is the best month to plan your trip to Indonesia

April to October are the best months to visit Indonesia. This is the dry season so you can expect warm sunny days with little to no rain.

The peak tourist season runs from July to September. There are larger crowds and higher prices during these months.

If you’re planning your Indonesia itinerary for December to March, you can expect a fair bit of rainfall. This is the rainy season after all, and it also gets extremely humid during these months.

If you’re backpacking Indonesia or doing lots of hiking, island hopping and outdoor activities, then I recommend avoiding travel during the rainy season.

3 week Indonesia itinerary Summary

Below is a summary of where to go in Indonesia. This includes island hopping and seeing all the top attractions.

• Day 1 – 3: Seminyak, Bali
• Day 4 – 5: Ubud, Bali
• Day 6 – 7: Gili Islands, Lombok
• Day 8 – 9: Kuta, Lombok
• Day 10 – 13: Komodo National Park, Flores
• Day 14 -15: Uluwatu, Bali
• Day 16-20: Optional (Java, Bali or Flores)
• Day 21: Fly home

Indonesia itinerary: Where to go, eat, play, and stay

This 3 week Indonesia itinerary starts on the Island of the Gods, Bali!

You’ll spend 6 days exploring the best of Bali , from the beaches to the rice fields.

You’ll then hop on a ferry and head east to Lombok.

Here you’ll soak up the sun on the Gili Islands before making your way to the mainland of Lombok. You’ll choose between climbing an active volcano, exploring hidden waterfalls, or sipping on cocktails on the beaches.

After 10 days in Bali and Lombok, you’ll catch a flight from Lombok to Flores Island, the home of Komodo National Park.

Flores is my favorite island and something that should be included in every Indonesia itinerary.

Finally, your last 4 days in Indonesia are up for debate! You can either venture off the beaten path in Bali or Flores or hike Mount Bromo in Java.

I’ll leave that decision up to you.

Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Bali

It’s best to start your Indonesia itinerary in Bali as the tropical island vibes will quickly get you into holiday mode!

On the first day of your 3 weeks in Indonesia, you should keep your schedule empty. After a long flight, the last thing you’ll want is to spend more time in a car driving to all the main attractions.

Instead, beat the jetlag by exploring the area around your hotel or by sipping on cocktails on the beach.

Where to stay in Bali

During this Indonesia 3 week itinerary, you’ll be staying at 3 different places in Bali . The first of those is Seminyak.

Why Seminyak? Because it’s a lively area with some of the best beach clubs, trendy cafes, and fun markets in all of Bali.

It’s the perfect introduction to the island – plus is pretty close to the airport!

Luxury: Enjoy beachfront views and 5* service at W Bali Seminyak . This hotel is hard to beat and the location could not be better. If you’re planning your honeymoon or romantic getaway, this is the perfect place to stay.

Mid-range: If you want personal space in your own private villa, look no further than Mayaloka Villas . Set amidst a lush tropical garden in the quieter side of Seminyak, you’ll have your own pool and luxury open-plan living.

Budget: Sleepwell Seminyak is a great place to stay if you’re traveling on a budget. With large private rooms, air-conditioning, and breakfast included, you get a lot of bang for your buck when staying here.

Day 2: Seminyak

It’s day 2 and you should be ready and rearing to go!

Today, you’ll stay close to Seminyak and Canggu, exploring the coastline and bustling streets.

Things to do in Seminyak or Canggu

Hit a beach club. I love Finns Beach Club! With a swim-up bar in a pool overlooking the ocean, there’s no better place to celebrate life. Other popular beach clubs include Potato Head Beach Club, Ku De Ta, Mrs. Sippy, and more!

Day trip to Canggu. Just 30 minutes from Seminyak is the digital nomad capital of Bali, Canggu! Many people choose to include Canggu in their Bali travel route as it’s a great place to learn to surf and enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants.

Relax at Double Six Beach. Double 6 Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bali. Bear in mind that the coastline here isn’t as pristine as the beaches in Uluwatu. But that’s ok because you’ll be going to Uluwatu a bit later in this Indonesia itinerary.

Sunset at La Plancha. You can’t miss La Planch at Double 6 Beach! Here’s where you’ll find the colorful beanbags and umbrellas. It’s a great place to watch the sunset and the vibe is awesome.

Visit Tanah Lot. Tanah Lot is a Hindu temple found in the sea north of Seminyak. During low tide, visitors can access the temple from the mainland.

Go shopping. Seminyak boasts some of the best shopping in Bali.

Day 3: Ubud

On your 3rd day in Indonesia, you’ll head to Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali.

Unlike the popular areas along the coast, Ubud’s main attraction lies in its lush surroundings that ooze tranquility and peacefulness.

Where to stay in Ubud

If you’re planning an Indonesia backpacking itinerary, I suggest you stay in central Ubud, near Monkey Forest Road. Ubud is a small village bustling with tourists and everything is within walking distance or a quick taxi ride away.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed stay, you can’t go wrong with picking a place near Campuhan Ridge Walk or the neighboring villages of Penestanan and Nyuh Kuning, all of which offer quaint bungalows with views of the rice paddies.

Luxury: The Kayon Jungle Resort sure lives up to its name! The infinity pools which overlook the jungle paired with spacious Balinese-inspired rooms, make this the best place to stay in Ubud if you’re looking to live in luxury.

Mid-range: Byasa Ubud is surrounded by rice paddies and is the perfect place to spend your time in Ubud. Situated in a quieter neighborhood, you’re guaranteed a remote escape if you stay here.

Budget: Surya Bagus Homestay is ideally located near the center of Ubud and is all you need if you’re traveling on a budget. The private room comes with a complimentary breakfast and the friendly owners will ensure you have a memorable stay in Ubud.

Things to do in Ubud

Take the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Campuhan Ridge Walk starts in the heart of Ubud and passes through rice fields and villages. It’s a leisurely nature walk that takes about 2 hours to complete and covers 9 km in total.

Visit Ubud Monkey Forest. Home to over 600 mischievous monkeys and 120 different species of trees, you’ll find the Ubud Monkey Forest right in the center of bustling Ubud.

Indulge in all the food. Ubud has some of the most delicious Indonesian cuisines, so be sure to visit one of the many local restaurants.

Day 4: Ubud

Today will be your first day trip from Ubud where you’ll visit towering waterfalls, lush forests, and ancient temples.

I recommend getting a private driver for the day

Things to do

Visit a rice field. Tegalalang Rice Terrace – the most famous of all rice fields in Bali, if not the whole of Indonesia! The Tegalalang Rice Terrace lies to the north of Ubud and is the source of those iconic photos you see all over social media. Jatiluwih Rice Field is slightly further and not nearly as crowded

Explore a waterfall. Leke Leke is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Bali and is close to Jatiluwig Rice Terrace. If you’re looking for something closer to Ubud, Tegenungan is also a popular choice.

Visit a temple. There are several temples close to Ubud. The Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple is one of the most famous, but you may also want to check out Goa Gajah (The Elephant Temple).

Lunch in the rice fields. During your day trip, ask your driver for a restaurant recommendation. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants offering sprawling views of the rice fields below.

Go for a massage. After a busy day of exploring, there’s no better way to relax than by going for a massage. You’ll probably go for quite a few during your time in Indonesia as they’re so affordable. Where else will you pay less than $10 for a full body massage!

Tip: Ubud is truly a magical place. If you had more than 3 weeks in Indonesia, I would recommend spending an extra night in Ubud. You will then have time to go river rafting and explore more waterfalls.

Day 5: Ubud to Gili islands

Day 5 of your Indonesia itinerary is going to be a long day (if you decide to climb Mount Batur) !

You’ll be heading to the Gili islands, a trio of spectacular islands located off the coast of Lombok. It’s just what you’re going to need after a busy few days of exploring Ubud and Seminyak.

But before you do that, I recommend that you climb Mount Batur . This is a sunrise hike to the top of an active volcano close to Ubud. You should be back at your hotel by 10 am, just in time to have a quick shower before going to Padang Bai Harbour.

To get to Gili Islands, you’ll hop on a fast ferry which will take 2 hours to reach the Gilis. Then it’s time to soak up the sun and relish in the island vibes!

Where to stay in the Gili Islands: Gili T, Gili Meno, or Gili Air?

All three of the Gili islands are tiny and there are no motorized vehicles allowed on any of them.

Gili Trawangan is the biggest and most developed of the three islands. It attracts a backpacker crowd and is perfect if you’re looking for a bit of a bustling vibe. In contrast, Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest island. Gili Air is a good mix between the two!

For this 3 week Indonesia itinerary, I recommend that you stay in Gili Trawangan.

Luxury: Looking for your dream island home? Majo Private Villas is for you! The tastefully decorated rooms are paired with floor-to-ceiling windows ensuring lots of natural light. With a gorgeous outdoor living area and private pool, this place oozes luxury.

Mid-range: The staff at Kaleydo Villas make this one of the best places to stay in Gili Trawangan. Start your day off strong with a complimentary breakfast from your very own porch and cool off in the large pool after.

Budget: Jimador’s Homestay is one of the cheapest places to stay on the island but it has everything you need for a peaceful sleep including a large double bed, air-conditioning, free wi-fi, and a private bathroom.

Things to do on day 5

Cycle around the island. The only way to get around Gili T is by foot or bicycle. As a result, the Gilis are best explored by bike. There are many hidden paths leading to untouched corners of the island and you can visit all of them in less than an hour.

Find a sunset spot. The best way to end your first day on Gili Trawangan is by watching the sunset from the western side of the island. The beach bars here are often bustling with tourists and offer live music. This is also where you’ll find the famous Gili T swings.

Visit the Night Market. This Gili T night market is located off the main road near the harbor. The food is absolutely delicious, and great value for money. The market is open daily from 6-10 pm.

Day 6: Gili Islands

Go snorkeling with turtles. Turtles are often seen in the shallow waters close to Turtle Point and you don’t need to swim out too far to encounter them. Snorkeling equipment can be rented from one of the many vendors near the beach.

Find underwater statues. The underwater statues are without a doubt the biggest attraction near the Gili Islands. The 48 life-size human sculptures are located just off the shore of Gili Meno.

Go scuba diving. The Gili’s are known for their vibrant underwater life which attracts beginner and experienced divers alike. With over 20 dive sites, great visibility, and turtles galore, scuba diving is one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Explore the other islands. Gili Meno and Gili Air are both a short 15 min boat trip from Gili Trawangan. You can spend the day soaking up the sun on one of their many beaches or exploring the island by bike.

There’s a lot more you can do around the Gilis! For more activities, check out my post on the best things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Day 7: Gili Islands to Lombok

And so, your 3 week Indonesia itinerary continues.

This time you’re on a quick ferry ride from the Gili Islands to Lombok. This is one of the most underrated islands in Indonesia and is a good mix of untouched beauty meets creature comforts.

It’s best to get an early start to your day. To get from the Gili Islands to Lombok, you’ll hop on a 15 minute fast ferry to Bangsal Harbour, Lombok.

After reaching Lombok, you’ll get a driver and make your way down south to Kuta, Lombok with a few exciting stops along the way.

Tip: I haven’t included Mount Rinjani hike on this Indonesia travel guide? Why? Because it’s a 3D2N hike and quite expensive. If you’re an adventure traveler who’s up for the challenge, I recommend you head to Senaru after arriving in Lombok. This is the starting point of the Mount Rinjani hike.

Where to stay in Lombok

Many people choose to stay in Sengiggi on the west coast of Lombok. Given that you only have 3 weeks in Indonesia, I recommend that you skip Sengiggi and head straight to Kuta, Lombok which is a 2-hour drive from the harbor.

But don’t confuse Kuta in Lombok with Kuta in Bali. They are two very different places.

Kuta, Lombok is the main hub for backpackers, honeymooners, and solo travelers. While it’s a small village, you’ll enjoy a great selection of restaurants, bars, and accommodation options.

Luxury: Segara Lombok may not be in Kuta itself, but it’s right on the beach which is even better if you’re looking for an ocean escape. With its outdoor showers, minimalist design, and seafront views, Segara Lombok is the perfect place to stay on the island.

Mid-Range: Rascals Hotel is a trendy hotel in the heart of Kuta, Lombok. You could spend all day here relaxing in the lounges alongside the pool. It’s within walking distance of the main street where you’ll find an array of restaurants and shops.

Budget: Galus Homestay is just the place to stay if you’re traveling on a tight budget. You’ll receive a warm Indonesian welcome from the hosts who are extremely kind and caring.

Things to do in Lombok

Visit Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls. These are the most incredible waterfalls I’ve ever seen! You’ll pass them on the way from the harbor to Kuta so there’s no excuse not to see them!

Laze on Tanjung Aan Beach. After you’ve checked into your accommodation in Kuta Lombok, rent a scooter and head to Tanjung Aan Beach, one of the best beaches in Lombok.

Sunset at Merese Hill. Alongside Tanjung Aan Beach lies Merese Hill which is a great place to watch the sunset.

Day 8: Kuta, Lombok

On day 8 of your Indonesia Itinerary, you’ll go on a scooter mission to find some of the best beaches in Lombok. Personally, I felt that the beaches here are way better than those in Bali so it’s really worth checking them out!

Things to do in Kuta, lombok

Go beach hopping. My faves are Mawun Beach and Selong Belanak which are both west of Kuta, Lombok. Here you’ll find the bluest water and soft white sand!

Learn to surf. Selong Belanak is a great beach to learn how to surf. The beach is lined with surf shacks where you can rent boards or organize a surf lesson. There are also sunbeds to laze on, and several warungs where you can buy fresh coconuts, beer, or food.

Views at Shu Restaurant. On your way back from the beaches, stop at Shu restaurant which offers one of the best views over Kuta Beach.

Day 9: Lombok to Flores Island (Komodo Islands)

On day 9 of your Indonesia itinerary, we’re heading to Flores! This is my favorite island and the highlight of my Indonesia trip.

I spent 2 weeks doing a Flores overland trip and while you won’t be able to fit that all in during this trip, you can see some of the highlights! These include the world-famous Komodo Dragons, manta rays, pink beaches, and epic viewpoints.

To get from Lombok to Flores, you’ll take a short flight from the airport in Kuta, Lombok to Labuan Bajo which is the gateway to Komodo National Park.

Where to stay in Flores

It’s best to stay somewhere close to the Labuan Bajo harbor. This area is bustling with tourists and offers a great variety of food options.

Luxury: If you’re looking for something more private (and more luxurious), you’ll love Villa Domanik . Set on a hillside with panoramic views over the Labuan Bajo port, it’s the perfect base for couples or those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Mid-range: Seaesta Komodo Hotel is the perfect place to spend your first night in Labuan Bajo. Not only is it situated in a prime location, but the views from the rooftop pool are also pretty epic! With shared dorm rooms and private ensuite alternatives, it’s a great option for all travelers.

Things to do in Labuan Bajo

I hate to break it to you, but Labuan Bajo isn’t too exciting! You’ll spend the night here before and after your liveaboard trip but that’s about it.

The best way to explore the Komodo Islands is on a liveaboard boat. Why? Because the national park is quite far from the mainland.

It takes just less than 3 hours to commute from Labuan Bajo to Komodo National Park. So while you can do a day trip, you’ll spend most of the day boating to and from the islands, leaving you very little time to explore.

Komodo liveaboard options

Because of just how big Komodo National Park is, I recommend booking a 2N 3D liveaboard. This is what I did and you can read all about my liveaboard experience here.

Below are a few things that will be included in your liveaboard trip.

• Komodo Dragon sighting at Rinca Island
• Climbing Padar Island
• Snorkeling at pink beach
• Swimming with Manta Rays at Manta Point
• Sunset from Gili Lawa

If you’re scuba diving certified, I highly recommend Dive Komodo’s liveaboard. Other snorkeling options include Wanderpus and Travass.

Day 10-11: Komodo Liveaboard

Day 12: return to lubuan bajo.

You’ll return from your liveaboard trip late in the afternoon.

Unfortunately, there are no flights from Labuan Bajo to Bali after 4 pm. But this is also a good thing as it gives you time to rest and recover after spending 3 days on the water!

Day 13: Komodo Islands to Uluwatu, Bali

You still have a week left of your Indonesia itinerary, and today you’ll fly back to Bali to visit Uluwatu.

Because you’ll need to fly to Bali anyway and Uluwatu is yet another must-visit destination in Bali.

With its dramatic coastline, stunning beaches , and local vibes, Uluwatu is the one place where many people wish they could stay longer.

Book an early flight from Labuan Bajo to Bali so that you have a full day to explore Uluwatu.

Where to stay in Uluwatu

Uluwatu lies in the far east of Bali, in the Bukit Peninsula. It spans a large distance consisting of 6 districts, each with its own unique charm. Unlike other areas in Bali, you could spend a few days here and still not see all the neighborhoods in the area.

As a first-time visitor to Uluwatu, you’ll love Bingin. If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter, then Padang Padang is a better option as it’s more centrally located.

I recommend that you read my Uluwatu accommodation guide to find the perfect area for you.

Luxury: The Anantara Uluwatu Resort is absolutely incredible – wait until you see the rooms. I spent two days here and didn’t leave the resort! With private access to the beach, and an infinity pool overlooking Impossibles surf break, this is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and sip on a cocktail or two!

Mid-range: In search of boho vibes in a tropical paradise? Hari Indah Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of Bingin Beach. The rooms are stunning and every detail is taken into consideration.

Budget: If you’re traveling on a tight budget but don’t want to compromise on accommodation, Wira Homestay & Spa is where you should stay in Uluwatu. Situated in a quiet neighborhood, you’ll be treated to a large private room with an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and a communal pool.

Things to do in Uluwatu

Visit the beaches. The beaches in Uluwatu are the best you’ll find in Bali. While there are more than 12 to choose from, Padang Padang Beach and Suluban Beach are more conveniently located so visit these 2 today and the rest tomorrow.

Watch the surfers at Uluwatu surf break. This is a world-famous wave for only those experienced surfers. Ulu’s is also the best place to watch the sunset! There are scores of warungs lining the cliffs – Give Single Fin a skip and walk down the stairs to find a local spot.

Watch Kecak Fire Show at Uluwatu Temple. This famous temple sits on the edge of a cliff with dramatic views of the crashing waves beneath. Pair this with the Kecak Fire Show, a local dance and musical performance.

Day 14: Uluwatu

Today you’ll explore more of Uluwatu. I recommend renting a scooter for the day or organizing a private driver.

Check out the Balangan Viewpoint. Not only is Balangan Beach the best beach in Uluwatu, but it also has an iconic viewpoint that Instagrammers will love.

Seafood BBQ at Bingin. Enjoy a sunset swim and take your pick from the massive seafood spread on Bingin Beach.

Go to a beach club. If you thought the beach bars in Seminyak were awesome, just wait until you see what Uluwatu has to offer. My top picks are Sunday’s Beach Club and Karma Kandara.

Day 15-20: Uluwatu and beyond

You’re on day 15 of your Indonesia itinerary and with only a few days left, you can take your pick of how you end your trip.

What I’ve detailed above at the must-dos on any Indonesia itinerary, no matter how much time you have.

Here are my recommendations for other things to do.

Option 1: Explore the Kelimutu Crater Lakes in Flores

Time needed: 2 nights

After your liveaboard in the Komodo National Park, take a quick flight from Labuan Bajo to Ende in Flores to see the Kelimutu Crater Lakes.

Ende is the main city near the smaller village of Moni. Moni is home to the stunning Kelimutu Lakes and the entire area off the beaten track. If you’re looking for raw and real experiences in Indonesia, be sure to visit the Kelimutu Crater Lakes before flying back to Bali.

Option 2: Visit Mount Bromo in Java

Forming part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Mount Bromo is one of the best-known peaks of Indonesia. At almost 2,330 meters high, its summit isn’t as tall as some of the others in the range, but it attracts the highest number of hikers.

To get to Mount Bromo, you will need to fly from Bali to Surabaya on East Java. You then have the option of doing a day tour from Surabaya to Mount Bromo, which is a 2-hour drive away. Or you can take a bus (or train) and stay at Probolinggo which is the gateway to Mount Bromo.

Option 2: Nusa Penida, Bali

If you’ve got your heart set on seeing more Bali landmarks, then spend 2 days in Nusa Penida where you can visit the famous Ketiling Beach, Angels Billabong, Crystal Bay as well as Broken Beach.

You can also visit Nusa Penida on a day trip from Bali as it’s a short boat trip away.

Option 3: Munduk, Bali

This itinerary for Indonesia takes you to many seaside locations. But if you’re looking for lush forests, coffee plantations, and waterfalls, then Munduk is a great addition.

Munduk lies toward the northern part of Bali and offers a cooler climate and fewer tourists compared to those areas down south.

Day 21: The end of your 3 weeks in Indonesia

Today’s the last day of your Indonesia itinerary. Make sure you’re staying in the same area as the airport as there can be traffic or ferry delays.

What to pack for Indonesia

Bali has a tropical climate and you need to pack for this. Also, remember to pack lightly. If you’re following my recommended Indonesia travel route, you’ll be moving around quite a bit. here are a few must-haves

• A backpack: Don’t bring hard luggage if you’re traveling between islands.
• Trainers: Hiking shoes aren’t necessary, but be sure to bring a good pair of trainers for all the walking you’ll be doing.
• A light jacket: Although it will be hot, bring a light jacket to wear in the mornings, on boat trips, and for your flight.

Here’s my comprehensive Indonesia packing list which includes everything you need to pack (and leave at home)!

Is Indonesia expensive to visit

No, Indonesia is extremely affordable. You can easily get by on $50 per day! The flight and ferry costs are also really affordable.

Do I need a visa for Indonesia

Previously, if you were spending 3 weeks in Indonesia, you wouldn’t need a visa to visit the country.

This has now changed!

All travelers need to pay for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), which costs IDR 500 000 ($35 USD). This 30-day tourist visa can be extended for an additional 30 days.

You can pay in cash using USD, AUD, GBP and Euro. Alternatively, Visa or Mastercard payments are also accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best time to visit indonesia.

The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season from April to October.

How long to spend in Indonesia

If you want to visit a few islands, I recommend planning a 2 to 4 week Indonesia trip itinerary.

Final thoughts on 3 weeks Indonesia itinerary

Planning the perfect Indonesia itinerary is no easy task! With so many amazing attractions, you’re going to have to make a few compromises.

From my personal experience, this guide includes the best of Indonesia and I have no doubt that after your visit, it won’t be long before you return.

Have you traveled to South East Asia? What destinations would you recommend for the perfect Indonesia itinerary for 3 weeks? Let me know in the comments section below!

Looking for more Indonesia travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!

• Living in Bali: Pros And Cons of Island Life
• Comprehensive Guide to Renting a Scooter in Bali
• 7 Incredible Bali Hidden Gems
• 26 Things I Wish I Knew About Backpacking Indonesia
• The Ultimate Bali Packing List

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Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

Where to stay in Seoul for first time visitors: Best areas, hotels and more

Living in bali: pros and cons of island life [from an expat], 2 thoughts on “the perfect 3 week indonesia itinerary: best places to visit in indonesia”.

Hello Carryn, Thank you for this itinerary! it has been super helpful for me, I am planning my first solo trip, but I have a few questions for you:

– Did you book all your hotels before arriving there or can we do it there last minute? – Did you have to book any of the attraction with anticipation? – How is the security there (considering we are both females and I will be by my own)

I really hope to hear from you soon, Best Regards, Fernanda

Hi Fernanda, I’m so excited for your trip!

– I booked accommodation last minute (a day or 2 prior) through Booking.com . I recommend you do the same as you may have slight changes to your itinerary, depending on the people you meet (or the weather). If you’re short on time and you have a fixed itinerary, you could book in advance, but it’s not necessary (unless you’re really particular about where you stay) – Yes, I booked my Komodo islands boat trip about a week before, but for other tours, such as Mount Batur, Kelimutu Crater Lakes, day trips etc, I booked a day or two in advance. – I felt very safe in Indonesia and never had to watch my back. The locals are so friendly and helpful. Of course, there’s always the chance of petty theft, especially in Bali. So keep your valuables close, but you don’t have to worry about violent crime in the country.

Let me know if you have any more questions. Enjoy your trip!

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The 10 best places to visit in Indonesia

Dec 10, 2023 • 7 min read

Indonesia is how you've always imagined Asia – jungles, rice terraces, beaches, coral reefs and volcanoes © Martin Puddy / Getty Images

Few destinations can beat Indonesia  in terms of variety.

One day, you're strolling beneath the glistening skyscrapers of a modern city; the next, you're in a traditional hilltop village scoffing down steaming gado-gado (tofu, tempeh, vegetables slathered in a creamy peanut sauce).

From climbing the freezing-cold summit of a puffing volcano to beating through tropical rainforests in search of orangutans or tigers, Indonesia offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. Where else can you salute the sun at sunrise and then surf a world-class barrel back to a virgin beach at sunset?

Roughly half of all international tourists land in Bali , but the nation is so much more than this one enticing island. From Java , Sumatra and Sulawesi to the frontier islands of West Papua (shared with Papua New Guinea) and Borneo (shared with Malaysia and Brunei), here are the top places to visit on a trip to Indonesia.

1. Jakarta, Java

Best city for art and history .

There’s no better place to get to grips with this vast and complex nation of 273 million people than its capital, Jakarta . Home to more than 10 million residents, it’s chaotic, traffic-clogged and sprawls over nearly 700 sq km (270 sq miles). It’s also home to the nation’s finest restaurants, wildest nightclubs and best museums.

Take time to browse the collections in the Museum Nasional (for history), Galeri Nasional (for classical art) and MACAN (for modern and contemporary art). From the Dutch colonial buildings of the Kota Tua neighborhood to the modern skyrises of the Golden Triangle, the city is both a study in contrasts and a crossroads of cultures, classes and cuisines.

2. Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan, Borneo

Best place to see orangutans.

If you want to see orangutans, the island of Borneo is the last place on earth (other than a few spots in neighboring Sumatra) where these great apes still thrive. Travelers looking for surefire sightings of orangutans head to Tanjung Puting National Park , a coastal tropical swamp forest that looks today like much of southern Borneo looked a few decades ago.

Most visitors hire liveaboard boats to travel up the Sekonyer River to feeding stations in the rainforest and Camp Leakey, the iconic rehabilitation center deep in the jungle where these auburn-haired 'men of the forest' live out a serene, semi-wild existence.

3. Raja Ampat, West Papua

Best place for snorkeling and diving.

Raja Ampat was once an under-the-radar destination visited only by intrepid scuba divers, but the whispers about this enticing island group have now reached a fever pitch. Off the coast of West Papua, the archipelago is a picture-perfect vision of paradise. Its lumpy green isles are blanketed in rainforests, dotted with languid lagoons and surrounded by warm turquoise seas at the vibrant heart of the Coral Triangle – an area of ocean with some of the greatest marine biodiversity on earth.

Raja Ampat's prismatic birds-of-paradise, which dance through the trees each morning at sunrise, informed the theory of evolution through natural selection, first developed by Charles Darwin’s less-appreciated contemporary, Alfred Russel Wallace. The British naturalist's restored hut is a popular attraction on the island of Gam. In addition to the dive lodges on Waigeo and Misool, many visitors sleep in homestays on virgin beaches, offering a chance to learn more about West Papua's distinctive culture.

4. Ubud, Bali

Best city for wellness and culture.

Rice paddies tumble down palm-lined hills, gamelan music fills the air, and floral offerings fill the streets in Bali’s most alluring (and on-trend) city, Ubud . By day, you can take a motorcycle out to the Monkey Forest for simian encounters, pop into the Yoga Barn for an ashtanga session, ogle the art at the Agung Rai Museum or shop for word-class beauty products, woodcarvings and batik textiles downtown. After dark, many people attend evening performances at local temples, where visitors are hypnotized by the beauty of courtly Legong ballets or wild Kecak fire dancing. Be careful! Many foreigners come to Ubud for a few days and end up staying a few years.

5. Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggara

Best place for surprising wildlife encounters.

Dragons really do roam the earth at this sprawling national park , covering the three arid islands – Komodo, Padar and Rinca – that provide shelter for the world’s largest lizards. Komodo dragons are ancient-looking creatures that can grow up to 3m in length and weigh up to 70kg. Sadly, there are fewer than 1400 of these fork-tongued giants left in the wild. The chance to see them lures thousands of visitors each year, many of whom arrive on a boat tour en route from Lombok to Flores , stopping along the way to snorkel or dive off the coast of Sumbawa .

6. Borobudur and Yogyakarta, Java

Best place for indonesian history.

Peru has Machu Picchu, Cambodia has Angkor Wat, and Indonesia has Borobudur , a nine-tiered temple from the 9th century that clocks in as the largest Buddhist structure in the world. Emblazoned across its walls are some 2672 intricately-carved bas relief panels featuring Buddhist legends and scenes of daily life in Java, as well as 72 distinctive, perforated stupas and more than 500 Buddha statues.

This colossal World Heritage Site lies amid sprawling rice paddies near Yogyakarta , an important education center and a hub for classical Javanese art forms, including batik-making, wayang puppetry and silversmithing. Yogya, as the city is known locally, is fiercely independent and still headed by a resident sultan, whose walled palace complex is the city’s top attraction.

7. Tana Toraja, Sulawesi

Best place for cultural traditions.

The jungle-clad hills and rugged granite cliffs of Tana Toraja would be enough of a lure for most places, but the big draw of the central highlands of Sulawesi is the Torajan people themselves. The inhabitants of this fascinating region maintain traditions that mark them apart from other Indonesians, living in villages of elaborately decorated houses with intricately carved walls and boat-shaped roofs.

Many rituals here revolve around death and the afterlife. The bodies of the deceased remain in the homes (and lives) of their relatives for months or even years after they pass – for Torajans, death is viewed as a gradual and social process, and locals are generally comfortable sharing these unusual traditions with visitors.

8. Kerinci Valley, Sumatra

Best place for hiking.

Southeast Asia’s tallest volcano, Gunung Kerinci – a 3805m (12,484ft) monster – lords over this remote highland valley on Sumatra , which has become one of Indonesia’s top spots for adventure travel. You can climb to the summit of this active volcano, swim beneath cascading waterfalls or search dense jungles for gibbons and langur monkeys.

Much of the land here is protected as Kerinci Seblat National Park, which is two times the size of Bali and protects more forest than all of Costa Rica’s national parks combined. At 13,791 sq km (5325 sq miles), Kerinci Seblat is the last large refuge for the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, which survives here in greater numbers than anywhere else on the planet.

9. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java

Best place for beautiful indonesian views.

You don’t have to look far in Indonesia to find a volcano, but Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java contains a whopping five volcanoes right next to each other. These conical peaks are dotted around a lunar landscape that has sprung from the ancient Tengger caldera.

The most striking site is smoldering Gunung Bromo, which rises 2329m (7641ft) out of a crater that is almost 10km (6 miles) across, surrounded by the nation’s only erg (dune sea). Most visitors time the trek to the summit to arrive at dawn to view the crater and volcanoes at their ethereal best.

10. The Gili Islands, Lombok

Best place for beach parties.

These tiny dollops of coral and sand off the coast of Lombok carry an outsized reputation thanks to their crystalline turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, ambitious vegan and health food restaurants, renowned freediving schools and epic beach parties. The Gilis started out as a boho backpacker destination, but the islands now cater to all types of travelers, with everything from backstreet hostels to luxurious beachfront cabanas (beach huts). 

Gili Trawangan (aka ‘Gili T’) is the largest and most developed of the islands, with a main drag that heaves with shops, massage parlors and cafes. Gili Meno is the smallest and most traditional island, while Gili Air offers the best of both worlds and is a lively hub for yoga tourism.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Travel guide to Indonesia

From beach and wildlife-focused escapes to journeys into the spiritual, cultural and adventure-fueled unknown, Indonesia never fails to inspire. This magnificent Southeast Asian country comprises more than 17,000 islands scattered in the Pacific Ocean, with a landscape dominated by lush rainforests, steaming volcanoes and idyllic beaches. The sheer range of experiences that you can have in Indonesia is spellbinding and will live on as sweet memories long after your holiday in the island country.

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to Indonesia with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Weather in Indonesia can be split into two seasons – wet and dry – with warm tropical temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F) during the day, throughout the year. In most regions, the dry season spans from May to September, with the rains falling between October and April.

• The  dry season  – which lasts from May to September – is considered the best time to visit Indonesia, with plenty of sunshine and day temperatures in the high 70s°F to low 80s°F (26°C-29°C). Sporadic showers may occur in the dry season but are infrequent events. These months are the ideal time to travel if you are planning on sunbathing, diving, exploring cultural sites, or climbing one of Indonesia’s famous volcanoes.
• The wet season  occurs between October and April with frequent rainfall that comes in the form of intense tropical downpours that tend to last for a couple of hours. November, December and January see the most rainfall. The eastern parts of Indonesia (Lombok, Flores and the islands beyond) are more affected by the rainy season than the western parts (Java, Sumatra and Bali). During the peak of the wet season, muddy back roads can be a problem if you intend to explore more off the beaten track locations and rough seas can render some islands inaccessible to smaller boats.

There are some regional exceptions. For example, north Sulawesi experiences some rain in June & July. For a detailed month to month weather report of the different regions in Indonesia, check  this excellent website .

HOW TO GET THERE

Most tourists will arrive in Indonesia via Soekarno–Hatta International Airport near Jakarta or one of the airfields that serve the areas of Bali, Lombok, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya.

• Soekarno–Hatta International Airport  (CGK) is the primary airport serving the capital Jakarta in West Java. Click  here  for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Jakarta.
• Adisutjipto   International Airport  (YOG) is the principal airport serving the Yogyakarta area in Central Java. Yogyakarta is the cultural heart of Indonesia and home to two of the countries most famous visited sites, the UNESCO protected temple compounds of Borobodur and Prambanan. Click  here  for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Yogyakarta.
• Juanda International Airport (JIA) serves the metropolitan area of Surabaya plus extended urban area in East Java. It’s the closest airport to one of Indonesia’s most famous attractions, Mount Bromo. Click  here  for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Surabaya.
• Ngurah Rai International Airport  (DPS) – officially known as I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport – is the main airport in Bali and the second busiest airport in Indonesia after Soekarno–Hatta International Airport. Click  here  for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Bali.
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport  (LOP) is the only airport on the island of Lombok. Click  here  for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Lombok.

Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading my  tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket .

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into Indonesia differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Indonesia embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Indonesia.

• Your  passport  must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your entry into Indonesia.
• Citizens of 140 countries (including the EU, UK, USA, Canada and Australia) do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days. All other nationalities must obtain a  visa  from one of the Indonesian diplomatic missions.

Make sure you read my  10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

GETTING AROUND

Despite its larger size, it’s easy to travel around Indonesia since the country is well covered by public transport. However, it can be frustrating at the same time, due to frequent delays caused by weather and mechanical issues, so my advise is to keep your schedule as flexible as possible. Be aware that safety standards can vary widely when making use of public transport in Indonesia.

• Garuda Indonesia  (Indonesia’s flag carrier, member of  SkyTeam )
• Executive  (eksecutif)  – air-con with mandatory reservations.
• Business  (bisnis)  – no air-con but mandatory seat reservations.
• Economy  (ekonomi)  – no air-con, crowded and unreserved.
• While there are ferries between Indonesia’s main islands, flying is almost always the faster and more reliable way to cover distances of any note. Public ferries run regularly on the shorter crossings between neighboring islands, such as between Sumatra and Java, Java and Bali, and Bali and Lombok. Ferries from Java to Bali are particularly popular among tourists: the ferry departs Ketapang in east Java many times a day, 24 hours a day, to make the 30-minute crossing to Gilimanuk in western Bali and there’s no need to book in advance (you can just arrive at the ferry port and buy a ticket for the next crossing). Check with shipping companies, the harbor office, travel agents or hotels for current schedules and fares.
• Coach and bus travel  is an option when you are traveling in Indonesia on a budget. There are several categories of bus travel, such as long-distance buses, and short-distance minibuses (widely known by their Balinese tag, bemo). Long-distance coaches generally have air conditioning, reading lights, reclining seats, in-bus entertainment showing Indonesian films. It is, however, the most time-consuming means of getting around.
• One of the best ways of getting around in Indonesia is by hiring a car and a driver . It gives you the freedom to explore the scenic beauty of the country. Having a driver takes away the stress of having to navigate the small roads or worrying about getting lost, and they can also help with any translations. Private transfers can be booked via most hotels.

INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS & TRAVEL TIPS

There are several good reasons why you should put Indonesia on your bucket list:

• Visit Borobodur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple
• Visit Prembanan, Indonesia’s most beautiful Hindu temple
• Explore Borneo by river
• Climb Mount Rinjani in Lombok
• Track orang utans in Sumatra
• Relax on the beaches of Bali
• Stay at ultra-luxe resorts
• Face the dragons in Komodo National Park
• Watch the sunrise at Mount Bromo

The following, in-depth articles may also inspire you and help you plan your holiday to Indonesia:

• Top 10 best things to see & do in Indonesia
• Top 10 most fabulous luxury resorts in Indonesia
• Top 10 best resorts in Bali
• Top 10 best resorts in Ubud
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel
• Tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

It’s impossible to suggest one itinerary for Indonesia, but I hereby share with you a two-week schedule In Java and Bali based on my own travel experiences in Indonesia. Three weeks are recommended though if you have more time and want to travel at a more leisurely pace or add some other islands to your itinerary (e.g. Lombok, Sulawese, Sumatra or Borneo).

• Days 1-4 : make Yogyakarta your port of entry in Indonesia and explore the temple compounds of Borobodur and Prembanan (recommended hotel: Amanjiwo )
• Days 5 : take train to Surabaya (6 hours) followed by a 3 hour private car transfer to the Mount Bromo area, for a visit to the volcano the next morning (recommended hotel: J iwa Jawa Bromo )
• Dag 6 : watch the sunrise over Mount Bromo and visit the caldera, followed by a 7 hour private car transfer to the Ijen area (recommended hotel: Jiwa Jawa Ijen ).
• Day 7-10 : midnight visit to the Mount Jien to watch the Blue Fire, followed by a boat trip to Bali (30 min) and a private car transfer to the Ubud area (recommended hotel:  Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve ).
• Days 11-15 : transfer to the Uluwatu area in the south of Bali for a couple of days of relaxation in Bali’s most spectacular coastal area (recommended hotel: Six Senses Uluwatu ).

For more ideas, I suggest the excellent Indonesia itineraries as provided by The Lonely Planet  and  Frommers .

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

Consider visiting my top 10 lists if you are eager to know how I rank Indonesia’s top hotels, based on my own experience:

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in Indonesia (with pros, cons, & tips to save money per hotel).

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i suggest if you visit indonesia again, you should visit Bandung. because Bandung has many recommended natural sights and culinary attractions. and if you are interested I am willing to take you around Bandung and become your tour guide. because I am a student studying in Bandung and I am very inspired through your trip.

nice Indonesia travel guide, thank you

the best indonesia travel guide, thank you

thx for the guide for traveling in Indonesia

Hello . To admin, I give you some information and update about the train. Nowaday, all trains are equipped with AC, all classes. No more fan on the economy and business class. Even now, KAI (Indonesia Railways) has priority and luxury class like a long haul business class seat.

Just one cent from me. Thank you

Great to see some interesting feedback about Lombok, if you are ever down in the south and want to explore the town of Kuta and surrounds let us know, we would love to show you around and show you our new boutique wellness resort SIWA.

http://www.siwacliffs.com

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Asia , Indonesia , Itineraries · November 25, 2020

Perfect 2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary: Best Places to Visit

If you want to visit Indonesia for 2 weeks and have no idea where to start, this post is for you. Plan the perfect trip with this 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary, including all the best things to do and top tourist spots.

The “Emerald of the Equator” has everything a traveler could ever want – from stunning beaches and ancient temples to delicious street food and plenty to keep you busy. But with a myriad of places to go and see, planning the perfect itinerary in Indonesia can be overwhelming.

To help you find Indonesia’s best landmarks , this Indonesia travel itinerary for 2 weeks will take you from the capital Jakarta to the historic city of Yogyakarta and its famous Buddhist temple, Borobudur, all the way to Bali .

All in all, this route will give first-time visitors a great overview of what this incredible country has to offer.

Traveling on a budget? Here are 21 tips on how to save money in Indonesia .

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Indonesia 2 Week Itinerary Travel Essentials

While it’s relatively easy to explore Indonesia, there are a few things to know before setting foot in this fascinating country. 

• You might need a visa to visit Indonesia. See if you need one  here . 
• Indonesia’s currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and 1 USD can get you roughly 16,000 rupiahs. While most touristy places accept cards, take enough cash with you when traveling off the grid. 
• Although most public spaces have wifi, these connections aren’t always the most reliable.  Grab a 4G Sim card  for pickup at the airport or this eSIM for Indonesia for a stress-free trip.  
• Unless you’re from the UK or South Africa, make sure to pack a travel adapter for your 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary.. Indonesia uses  plug types C and   F,  with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. This international travel plug  is a great option. Moreover, it comes with four USB ports and works in over 200 countries. 
• Remember to get travel insurance for your dream trip to Indonesia. I use (and recommend) SafetyWing .

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Indonesia: Quick Overview 

• Indonesia Day 1-2 : Start your Indonesia itinerary in Jakarta | Jakarta National Monument >> Batavia >> Glodok Chinatown Market >> Jalan Jaksa.
• Day 3-5 : Hop on a train to Yogyakarta | Malioboro Street >> Vredeburg Fort >>Borobudur Temple >> Mount Merapi. 
• Indonesia Day 6-10 : Fly out to Bali | Seminyak >> Canggu >> Kuta >> Ubud >>  Uluwatu Temple >> Nusa Penida.
• Day 11-1 4: Head out to the Gili Islands.

How long should you stay in Indonesia

Indonesia is a large country consisting of thousands of islands full of beautiful places to visit and tourist spots to explore. And to be honest, you could spend months here and still have things left on your Indonesia bucket list!

However, spending 2 weeks in Indonesia is the perfect time-frame to get a feeling of what the country is like and will allow ample time to visit some of the most popular places. 

With that said, if you can, extend your trip to 3 or 4 weeks to get a chance to explore other areas such as Borneo, Komodo, Raja Ampat, or even more of Java. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia 

Indonesia has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs  from April to October . During these months, the weather is ideal for swimming, surfing, diving, snorkeling, and exploring all of Indonesia’s best attractions. June to Septembe r is the peak tourist season, so if you must visit during these months, expect higher prices and lots of tourists. 

In contrast, the wet season runs  from November to March . It’s not the worst time to visit the country but prepare for frequent downpours. It’s best to avoid visiting Indonesia in January as this month sees up to 402mm in rainfall. 

An Epic 2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary: What to Do and Where to Go in Indonesia

This 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary includes one of the best things to do in Java, the country’s most populous area. You’ll start your trip in Jakarta, the nation’s capital, where you can enjoy some sightseeing and really immerse yourself in the local culture.

Next, a train will take you across the country to the famous artists’ city, Yogyakarta. Once there, you’ll get to try some of Indonesia’s best street food and see the world-famous temple Borobudur.

After spending your first week of this Indonesia itinerary in cities, you’ll head to Bali, arguably the best island in the entire country. Here you’ll find some of the best beaches, cultural experiences, and wildlife.

After a quick visit to some of Bali’s neighboring islands and the beautiful beaches of Nusa Penida , you’ll conclude your 2-week itinerary for Indonesia in Gili Trawangan swimming with green sea turtles.

Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Jakarta

On the first day of your 2 weeks in Indonesia, you’ll probably still be dealing with jet lag and a fair bit of culture shock. Take this day to get your bearings and explore the area around your hotel or hostel. Make sure to go to bed early and get some rest as tomorrow will be an exciting day of exploring!

Where to Stay in Jakarta

Indonesia’s bustling capital city has heaps of choices when it comes to accommodation. Menteng is the city’s beating pulse and the best neighborhood to stay in Jakarta. Since you’ll be close to some of the city’s best attractions, such as Merdeka Square and the National Monument, it’s the perfect base for first-time visitors. 

• Luxury: The Hermitage is the crown jewel of 5-star luxury hotels in Jakarta. This gorgeous colonial-style property offers posh rooms accompanied by all the amenities you would ever need during this first bit of your Indonesia itinerary. See prices and availability here .
• Mid-range: Those who don’t want to sacrifice style over price should check-in at the Novotel . It’s a great mid-range option with clean, modern rooms. What’s more, the epic pool is a great place to cool down after a day out exploring Jakarta’s bustling streets. Check rates and availability here .
• Budget:   Konko Hostel  is a uber-cool hostel right in the heart of Menteng, and offers easy access to the city’s best hangouts. Both dorms and private rooms are available, making it easy to choose a space that’s right for you.  Check rates and availability here . 

Day 2: Go Sightseeing in Jakarta

Jakarta is a busy city, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Use this day to see some of the most important sights around the city.

In the early morning, take a taxi to the Jakarta National Monument (MONAS). It represents the Indonesian struggle for independence and has a museum for visitors to learn about the country’s history. A ticket costs only IDR 15,000 (roughly $1), and you’ll have the best views of the city from the top of the monument.

Afterward, head to Jakarta’s old town, Batavia , to admire some of the colonial architecture. This is also a great spot for lunch. If you aren’t comfortable visiting the area independently, this guided tour is a great way to learn a little about the old town’s history and see its best bits.

Not too far from here is the Glodok Chinatown Market , which is a great place to escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the busy streets of Jakarta. Join this great walking tour to explore all its nooks and crannies.

Finish off your day at Jalan Jaksa , Jakarta’s backpacker street, with a cold beer.

Recommended Jakarta tours

Day 3: take the train to yogyakarta.

Leave Jakarta behind and take an executive train to the beautiful city of Yogyakarta. While the journey takes around 6 hours and costs $20, it’s the perfect way to enjoy Java’s incredible scenery. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with views of volcanoes and rice fields.

Since Indonesian trains are very safe and clean, you can relax or even sleep if you need some rest.

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

There are many cool places to stay in Yogyakarta, but it’s best to stay close to the city center to maximize your time. If you can, stay near Malioboro Street. That way, you’ll be within walking distance to tons of restaurants, shops, and the city’s best nightlife spots.  

• Luxury:  If you’re looking for a posh hotel with beautiful rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an onsite spa, then Jambuluwuk Malioboro Hotel  is just the place for you. Since the hotel is not directly on Malioboro Street itself, it’s a great place to get away from the crowds while still being close enough to all the action!  See rates and availability here . 
• Mid-range: Gaia Cosmo Hotel is a beautiful 4-star concept hotel close to Yogyakarta’s famous Malioboro Road,. With clean, modern rooms and friendly staff, it’s the perfect choice for midrange travelers looking for something a bit more upscale at exceptional rates. Check prices and availability here.
• Budget:   Liberta Malioboro  is a funky 2-star hotel. Don’t let the simple interiors fool you, because each room offers plenty of space and is exceptionally clean. Besides being one of the best-rated budget hotels in Malioboro, there’s also a beautiful pool in the cute courtyard.  See rates and availability here .

Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta

There is a lot to do in Yogyakarta. While this 2-week Indonesia itinerary definitely won’t give you enough time to see everything, you can still enjoy some of the best parts of the city. 

Walk along the famous Malioboro Street , where you’ll find the best street food in all of Java. Then, visit the historic Fort Vredeburg , a remnant of Dutch colonial times. Afterward, admire the old water palace and its incredible underground mosque.

In the evening, don’t miss the Alun Alun Square which is the best place to sample street food. A popular activity here is to a rent small, fluorescent car to drive around the yard. Don’t forget to try some of the famous Nasi Goreng, Indonesian fried rice.

Recommended Tours in Yogyakarta

Day 5: visit borobudur.

Seeing the sunrise at Borobudur Temple is an absolute must-do when you visit Yogyakarta. You’ll have to get up early to get to the temple in time, but it’ll be worth it. Don’t forget to bring a jacket as the mornings can get chilly. You’ll be amazed by the incredible sunrise at this mysterious Asian temple with volcanoes as a backdrop.

Next, hire an offroad jeep to take you around Mount Merapi , Java’s notorious volcano. After lunch, head to Prambanan Temple , which is almost as famous as Borobudur. Many visitors like to stay here until sunset, which is a spectacular sight.

If you want to see all three sights without the hassle of planning a thing, this full-day tour is your best bet.

Day 6: Take a plane to Bali

On your 6th day of this 2-week Indonesia itinerary, you’re finally heading to Bali. This is a tourist favorite with so many things to do that you’ll never be bored. 

The island is quite large, so picking a place to stay can feel overwhelming. As a first-time visitor, try to book a hotel or hostel close to either Canggu or Seminyak, which are some of the most popular areas for tourists.

Oh, and travel tip – Bali is the perfect place to rent a scooter if you know how to ride one. It’ll make getting around a lot easier.

Where to stay in Seminyak

Seminyak is a lively area in Bali brimming with hipster hangouts, trendy cafes, cool beach clubs, and lots to keep you busy. It’s also really easy to explore the rest of Bali from there, making it a great base for this leg of your 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary. 

• Luxury:  Alila Seminyak  is unquestionably one of the best luxury hotels in Seminyak. It comes with all the mod cons you would expect from a 5-star resort. The best part? It’s located right on the beach!  See prices and availability here .  
• Mid-Range:  If you’re looking for something upscale without the hefty price tag,  Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak is just the place for you. The hotel is located right in the heart of Seminyak, so you’ll be close to lots of shops and restaurants. Besides the gorgeous rooms, the stunning rooftop pool is just the place to unwind after a day exploring Bali’s best attractions.  See prices or availability here.
• Budget:   Grandma’s Plus Hotel  is the perfect base for travelers looking for a funky place to stay at backpacker rates. The hotel features an intimate setting with comfortably-sized rooms and is located less than 5 minutes walk from the beach. On top of that, it’s a great Instagrammable hotel in Bali! Don’t miss sipping a cocktail at the gorgeous pool!  Check rates and availability here. 

Day 7: Relax at the Beach

On your first day in Bali, you should take it easy. Spend your day at the beach in Canggu or Seminyak , and learn how to surf . Bali has excellent surf conditions for beginners, so everyone can learn to stand on the board on their first day, even with no experience.

After a quick lunch in a local “warung” (a tiny restaurant), take some time to explore Kuta’s side streets filled with souvenir shops and little cafes. Take your scooter (or a taxi) to the Tanah Lot temple for sunset. This temple sits on a cliff in the ocean and is one of Bali’s most magical places.

Finish off your day with a few drinks in one of the many beach bars in Canggu.

Recommended Tours in Bali

Day 8: go to ubud.

Ubud is a beautiful little town in central Bali known for its rice terraces, artisanal products, calm atmosphere, gorgeous resorts , and great food scene . If you go in the morning, you’ll be able to escape traffic and make it to Ubud in under an hour. There are public buses available, but the easiest way to get to Ubud is to rent a scooter and drive yourself.

Enjoy the Campuhan Ridge Walk , which takes you through some beautiful rice fields. For lunch, head to the Ubud Market , which is also a great spot for souvenir shopping. Make sure to add a visit to the Monkey Forest to your list of things to do in Ubud , Indonesia. This sanctuary houses thousands of wild monkeys in a large park with multiple temples.

Spend your afternoon visiting all the beautiful waterfalls in Ubud , such as the Tegenungan Waterfall . If you’re feeling sweaty from a long day of exploring, you can even go for a swim here.

Once you’re back from your day trip, get ready for a night in one of Bali’s most popular rooftop clubs, the LXXY . They offer an all-you-can-eat BBQ with free-flow drinks every night. 

Day 9: Explore Uluwatu

Today you’re exploring Bali’s southern corners. Take your scooter down to Uluwatu, which boasts an incredible shoreline with steep cliffs and white-sand beaches . Visit Balangan Beach , Bingin Beach and Dreamland Beach for some of the best views and scenery. Make it a priority to visit the famous Uluwatu Temple , which is one of the most well-known attractions in all of Bali. The temple is one of the best places to catch an iconic sunset in Bali and it’s easy to join a guided tour .

If you prefer something less-touristy, head over to beautiful Thomas Beach . Suluban Beach is another gem. The view is simply incredible here and it’s a great place to watch the changing skies while enjoying a luxury dinner at one of the many beach clubs.

Day 10: Day Trip to Nusa Penida

On your last day in Bali, you’ll have to get up early to catch a fast boat to the neighboring island of Nusa Penida.

Nusa Penida is sometimes described as “Bali 30 years ago.” There is little infrastructure, but some of the island’s best spots are still largely undiscovered by tourists. Add places like Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay, Kelingking Beach , and Diamond Beach to your list of things to do in Nusa Penida . These are some of the best beaches on this 2-week itinerary and in all of Indonesia. All in all, Nusa Penida is an absolute highlight of any trip to Bali!

Recommended Nusa Penida Tours

Day 11: take a boat to the gili islands.

On day 11 of your 2 weeks in Indonesia, this itinerary takes you to Gili Trawangan, one of the three Gili Islands. The boat journey will take you a few hours, but it will be more than worth it. Read my guide on how to get to the Gilis from Bali . Alternatively, grab a fast boat from Nusa Penida or Bali to Gili T here to save time.

Gili Trawangan is tiny, and there is no motorized traffic on the island. The best way to get around is either by bike or by horse-drawn carriage. Spend your first evening on Gili Trawangan in a beach bar enjoying the beautiful view off the coast of Bali.

Best Gili T Accommodation

For its tiny size, Gili T surprisingly has many accommodation options! You’ll find cheaper hotels and hostels inland, but to really experience island life at its best, stay at one of the beachfront hotels or resorts instead.

• Luxury:  Wake up in paradise every day with a stay at  Gili Eco Villas Resort . This gorgeous hotel offers a relaxing experience and is located mere steps from some of Gili T’s best snorkeling and diving spots. What’s more, the rooms feature beautiful, bright interiors with lots of traditional finishes. Of course, the private beach and glimmering pool are added cherries on the top!  See rates and availability here .
• Mid-range: If you’re looking for something upmarket at surprisingly affordable rates, you don’t need to look further than Pinkcoco . The hotel features luxurious rooms with lots of space and gorgeous pink interiors. In fact, you couldn’t find a more Instagrammable hotel even if you tried! There’s also a beautiful pool where you can sip cocktails poolside, an onsite spa, and of course a cool beach bar where you can catch the famous Gili T sunset every evening! Check rates and availability here .
• Budget:  Budget or solo travelers looking for a cheap stay without sacrificing comfort will find  Mad Monkey  an excellent option. It’s a cool hostel featuring a huge outdoor pool where it’s easy to make new friends. The best part, they have various room options such as dorms, private huts, and even teepees, so it’s really easy to still enjoy a bit of privacy.  Check prices and availability here .  

Day 12: Swim with turtles

There are many incredible things to do in Gili T . But arguably, the best way to spend your first day on this gorgeous island is by the beach. This island is famous for its green sea turtles, which you can spot right from the beach. Rent some snorkeling equipment from one of the vendors by the main road and go for a swim in the shallow area close to Turtle Point . You’re almost guaranteed to encounter sea turtles right there. Always remember to be respectful and never touch a wild sea turtle or swim too close to it.

After lunch at one of the restaurants on the beach, take some time to explore Gili Trawangan. Rent a bike from your accommodation and cycle around the island, which takes less than an hour. Along the way, take some photos at the famous Gili T swings or have a freshly-cracked coconut by the beach.

In the evening, go out for a few beers and experience Gili Trawangan’s famous nightlife. There is always live music around the main road and many bars and small clubs to try out.

Day 13: Day Trip to Gili Air

On your last day in Gili Trawangan, take the early morning boat to neighboring Gili Air . This island is a bit smaller and less crowded. Cycle around the island and enjoy the secluded beaches and beautiful views of the coast of Lombok. Rent a Stand-Up-Paddle board for only a few dollars and see some of the incredible underwater life Gili Air has to offer.

Take the last boat back to Gili Trawangan and enjoy a full seafood BBQ dinner on the beach for your final evening.

Day 14: Head home

On your final day in Indonesia, book tickets for a boat to either take you back to Bali or to Lombok, both of which have an international airport from where you can catch your flight back home.

2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary in Conclusion

As you can see, there are a plethora of beautiful places to visit in Indonesia! Spending 2 weeks in Indonesia will give you a well-rounded glimpse of what to do and see, but to be honest, you’ll only scratch the surface of this stunning South East Asian archipelago!

That wraps up this epic Indonesia travel itinerary. Do you have any advice for fellow travelers planning a 2-week stay? Feel free to share you top tips, best places to visit, things to do, and everything in between below!

If you enjoyed this Indonesia 2 week itinerary, please pin it.

About the Author: Victoria Heinz gives practical travel information for trips from all around the world, including Indonesia on her gorgeous blog,  Guide Your Travel . She shares all the things she wishes she knew before traveling and enjoys teaching others how to travel on a budget. 

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May 28, 2021 at

Hi, a bit confused. You say the dry season is from April to September, but then say the wet season is from MArch to November…which includes those “dry” months. Is this a typo?

May 30, 2021 at

Whoops! Thanks for pointing that out, Bekki! It was indeed a typo – the dry season is from April to October, and the wet season is from November to March.

October 13, 2022 at

Hi, how does one get from Yogyakarta/Borobudur to Bali? Can you provide some information about flights, what pricing looks like, and best methods to book? Thank you!

October 17, 2022 at

Hi Jane, the easiest way to get from Yogyakarta to Bali is to fly. Flights are cheap and only take 1h30. Alternatively, you can also take a train and ferry but it will take much longer. I’m not a travel agent, so I suggest you do a quick Google search to get a better idea of pricing tailored to your exact dates. I personally use Skyscanner to compare flights and 12GoAsia or Klook to look for trains/ferries.

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Table of Contents

Planning your trip to indonesia: practical information and travel tips.

Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. From the bustling metropolis of Jakarta to the serene beaches of Bali, the cultural richness of Yogyakarta to the wild landscapes of Sumatra, Indonesia offers a travel experience like no other. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey with Indonesia Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey to this fascinating country.

1. Understanding Indonesia: Culture, Population, and Language

Indonesia is a country of rich cultural diversity. With over 300 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, art forms, and languages, the cultural tapestry of Indonesia is vibrant and varied. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

The population of Indonesia is as diverse as its culture. With over 270 million people, it’s the world’s fourth most populous country. The majority of the population lives on the five main islands: Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Papua.

Dive into our next section of Indonesia travel tips.

2. Exploring Indonesian Cuisine

Indonesian cuisine is a gastronomic adventure. With influences from India, the Middle East, China, and Europe, it’s a delightful fusion of flavors. From the spicy rendang of Sumatra to the sweet martabak of Java, Indonesian food is a culinary journey in itself. Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled skewers), and gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce).

3. Navigating Indonesia: Maps, Transportation, and Currency

Indonesia’s vast size and island geography can make it a challenging country to navigate. However, with a little planning, and some more insider travel tips, getting around can be part so much easier and also let’s you enjoy the adventure. Domestic flights connect major cities and islands, while ferries are a great way to travel between islands. In cities, taxis, motorbike taxis (ojek), and ride-hailing apps are common.

The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas.

Appreciating Indonesian Art and Music

Indonesia’s art and music reflect its cultural diversity. Traditional art forms include batik (wax-resist dyeing), wayang (shadow puppetry), and intricate wood carvings. Gamelan, a traditional music ensemble featuring percussive instruments, is a must-experience.

4. Packing the Essentials: What to Bring

When packing for Indonesia, consider the climate, activities you plan to do, and cultural norms. Lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for the tropical climate. However, if you plan to visit religious sites or conservative areas, modest clothing is recommended. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

5. Respecting the Flag and Understanding the Capital

The Indonesian flag, known as Sang Saka Merah-Putih (The Sacred Red and White), is a symbol of national pride. It consists of two equal horizontal bands, red on top and white below, symbolizing courage and purity.

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis and the country’s economic, political, and cultural hub. It’s a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers coexist with historic sites.

Indonesia is a country that captivates with its cultural richness, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality.

With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and memorable journey. Next on our list of Indonesia Travel Tips you’ll learn some Bahasa Indonesia.

6. Embracing the Language: Bahasa Indonesia

Language and etiquette.

While Bahasa Indonesia is the national language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia can enhance your travel experience.

Indonesians are known for their warm hospitality. Respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and always use your right hand when giving or receiving something.

Learning a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia, the national language, helps you to get around make make people smile, also it will enhance your travel experience.

Simple phrases like “Terima kasih” (Thank you), “Maaf” (Sorry), and “Selamat pagi” (Good morning) can go a long way in interacting with locals.

7. Exploring Indonesia’s Destinations

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, with over 17,000 islands. Each island offers a unique experience. Bali is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, but there is so much more. That’s why we list them in our Indonesia travel tips. Sumatra for its wildlife and natural beauty, Java for its cultural heritage and bustling cities, and Sulawesi for its unique culture and stunning marine biodiversity. The remote islands of Raja Ampat are a diver’s paradise, known for their pristine coral reefs. Dive into the local culture with the next Indonesia travel tips.

Discovering Indonesian Art and Music

Indonesian art and music are as diverse as its islands. From the traditional batik and ikat textiles to the intricate wood carvings of Toraja , Indonesian art is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. The country’s music is equally diverse, ranging from the traditional gamelan music to dangdut, a popular genre influenced by Arabic, Indian, and Malay music.

8. Staying Connected: Indonesia’s News

With the next Indonesia travel tips, you have to stay updated with the latest news in Indonesia, as it can help you plan your trip better. English-language newspapers like The Jakarta Post and websites like Kompas.com, The Bali Sun or Coconuts Bali provide reliable news and insights into Indonesia.

9. Respecting Local Customs and Traditions

Indonesians are known for their hospitality and friendliness. However, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s also customary to use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving objects.

10. Preparing for Your Journey

Before embarking on your journey, here are a few more Indonesia travel tips:

• Check the visa requirements for your country. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival, but it’s always good to check beforehand.
• Get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and loss of belongings.
• Indonesia is located in the Ring of Fire , an area with frequent seismic activities. Familiarize yourself with safety procedures in case of earthquakes or tsunamis.
• Recommended Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus-Diphtheria are recommended. Depending on your travel plans, you might also need vaccinations for Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, and Malaria.

11. Delving into Indonesian Cuisine: A Gastronomic Adventure

Indonesian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, reflecting the country’s diverse cultures and historical influences. Explore the local delicacies with the following Indonesia travel tips. From the spicy rendang of Padang to the sweet and sour Asinan Betawi of Jakarta, every region has its unique dishes.

Street Food

Street food is an integral part of Indonesian cuisine. Warungs (small family-owned businesses) and street vendors offer a variety of dishes, from Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Satay (grilled meat skewers) to Martabak (stuffed pancake) and Soto Ayam (chicken soup). Trying street food is a must for a true taste of Indonesia.

Traditional Dishes

Indonesia’s traditional dishes are a testament to its rich culinary heritage. Rendang, a spicy meat dish from West Sumatra, was voted the world’s most delicious food by CNN readers. Other must-try dishes include Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), Nasi Campur (mixed rice), and Sambal (chili paste).

12. Indonesian Currency: Navigating the Rupiah

The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Indonesia. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and money changers. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, it’s always handy to have some cash, especially when shopping in local markets or eating at street food stalls.

13. Embracing the Indonesian Way of Life

Indonesia is a country of contrasts, learn more in this section of Indonesia travel tips.

Where ancient traditions coexist with modern lifestyles. Dive into the local way of life with the next Indonesia travel tips. From the bustling metropolis of Jakarta to the tranquil rural landscapes, every corner of Indonesia offers a unique experience.

Festivals and Celebrations

Indonesia’s diverse cultures and religions result in a plethora of festivals and celebrations. From the Hindu celebration of Nyepi in Bali to the Muslim festival of Eid, these occasions offer a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich history, offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Indonesia has something for everyone. We hope that this article helped you with our Indonesia travel tips.

Start planning your journey and get ready to explore the wonders of Indonesia. Selamat jalan!

1. What are the must-visit destinations in Indonesia?

Indonesia is known for its diverse destinations. Some must-visit places include Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok, Komodo National Park, and Raja Ampat. Each offers unique experiences, from beautiful beaches to cultural heritage sites.

What is the best time to visit Indonesia?

The best time to visit Indonesia depends on the region and activities you have planned. Generally, the dry season from April to October is ideal for most destinations. However, it’s always a good idea to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Do I need a visa to travel to Indonesia?

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival for tourism purposes. However, it’s essential to check the Indonesian immigration website or contact the nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

What is the official language of Indonesia?

The official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, making communication relatively easy for English-speaking travelers.

What currency is used in Indonesia?

The currency used in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It’s recommended to exchange some currency upon arrival at the airport or use ATMs, which are widely available in cities and tourist areas.

How can I get around in Indonesia?

We recommend for short distances to rent a motobike, and for longer distances to use a car. Domestic flights are a convenient option for traveling between major cities and islands. Ferries and speedboats are common for inter-island travel. Taxis, ride-hailing apps such as Gojek or Grab, and local transportation such as buses and motorbike taxis are available in all urban areas.

Is it safe to travel in Indonesia?

Indonesia is generally a safe country for travelers. However, it’s always advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, securing your belongings, and following any travel advisories or guidelines issued by your home country.

What should I pack for my trip to Indonesia?

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Indonesia?

No you don’t need any vaccinations to enter Indonesia. However, it’s recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic to discuss any necessary vaccinations for your trip to Indonesia. Routine vaccines, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and seasonal influenza, are advisable. Depending on your travel plans, additional vaccines for diseases like Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, or Rabies might be recommended.

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Getting Around Indonesia: Transportation Tips

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It’s easy enough to do as most tourists visiting Indonesia do — land on Bali and spend your whole time exploring all the volcanic, coastal and cultural wonders the island has to offer. But if you’re keen to see more of the world’s largest archipelago, Indonesia’s vast transportation network — planes, trains, automobiles, and all manner of two- and four-wheeled local transport — makes it easy enough to venture around.

After arriving at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, you could hop an onward flight on one of Indonesia’s budget airlines to destinations like Sumatra or Flores. On the east side of Bali in Padangbai, public ferries make the short crossing (four to five hours) to Lombok, or you can hop a faster tourist ferry to go directly to the Gili Islands. Ferries also connect Bali to Java, where you can easily access the UNESCO attractions of Yogyakarta by train. And nearly everywhere you travel in Indonesia you’ll hear the zip of scooter engines, the preferred method of transport for most upwardly mobile Indonesians.

Flying to and Around Indonesia

If you’re arriving in Indonesia from North America or Europe, you’ll most likely land at the major international airports in either Jakarta or Bali. There are no nonstop flights to Indonesia from either continent, but major airlines such as KLM, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines and Thai Airways offer one- or two-hop connections with the option for stopovers in major Asian cities such as Singapore , Bangkok and Hong Kong .

Garuda Indonesia is the state-operated airline, offering connecting service to Indonesia from Amsterdam (as well as various countries in Asia) and also domestic flights within Indonesia. The country’s major cities and remote island locales are well connected via domestic air service from other carriers as well, including Lion Air and AirAsia.

While there are ferries between Indonesia’s main islands, flying is almost always the faster and more reliable way to cover distances of any note. But be aware that as firm as ticketed itineraries may seem, plane schedules — particularly on smaller airlines and to less-visited destinations — can be unreliable and infrequent.

You can buy tickets online, and you’ll also find ticket offices at many airports for purchasing your airfare in person. When flying the budget airlines in particular, it’s a smart idea to call ahead and reconfirm your reservation before departure, as it’s not uncommon for passengers to get bumped. Arriving a full two hours ahead of time at airports for domestic and international flights is another good way to protect yourself.

Resources: AirAsia.com Bali-Airport.com www.Garuda-Indonesia.com LionAir.co.id

Renting a Car in Indonesia

In Bali, Java, Sumatra and many other spots in Indonesia, cars can be rented for around $10 per day — or even less if you bargain and are renting for several weeks at a time. Having your own wheels can be an appealing way to explore all that the particular island you’re on has to offer (note that most rental companies will not allow you to travel between islands with your rental car, even when there are car ferries).

Traffic circulates on the left side of the road, roads are of varying standards and traffic moves at the mercy of the thousands upon thousands of scooters that circulate through it like eddying rivers. If you’re not used to driving in developing countries, you’re far better off hiring a driver to shuttle you around.

If you do decide to rent a car, there are a few things to know. International Driving Permits are officially required in Indonesia, but most car rental companies will gladly rent to you with only your home state or country driving license as testament to your skills behind the wheel. That said, if you’re pulled over by the police (they often see foreigners coming and will wave you over for no clear reason), be prepared to be asked to pay a bribe to avoid being served with a much larger traffic infraction fine. These “spot checks” are a regular occurrence in Bali, where many foreigners drive cars and scooters, making them easy targets for extortion.

We recommend getting an International Driving Permit if you plan to spend more than a few weeks in Indonesia (to avoid police hassle); be sure to make a copy of both it and your main driver’s license in case they get lost.

Renting from a reputable company (Hertz, Avis, Rhino Car) or a local company like Bali Island Car Rental is important since you’ll want to have the right registration papers to present at police stops. Check before driving away that you have these papers and that they are up to date and match your car.

Seatbelts are always required for front-seat passengers, but you’d be wise to wear them at all times and in all cases in Indonesia. Failure to wear them in the front seat can result in a fine. Make sure all seatbelts are working in your rental car before leaving the lot. Check for a spare tire before leaving too, as road conditions can be dicey and flats are a real likelihood.

If you plan to travel between islands with your rental car (from Bali to Lombok by car ferry, for example), check with your rental company in advance to ensure that this is allowed.

Major rental companies will offer you collision damage waiver insurance, well worth paying for, and you should also check with your car insurance company at home or credit card company (if that’s how you’re paying for your rental) before arriving in Indonesia to know the details of your international coverage.

Resources: Avis.com BaliIslandCarRental.com ElephantCarHire.net Hertz.com RhinoCarHire.com

Indonesia by Train

Java and Sumatra are the places to see a bit of Indonesia via the national railway, called Kereta Api. While the rest of Indonesia isn’t serviced by trains at all, these islands are the exception to the rule. Affordable overnight trains operate between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, while a shorter route runs between Surabaya and Yogyakarta. On Sumatra, the railway lines are not as well connected as on Java, but they can get you between major destinations in the south and west, including Padang and Lampung, as well as around Aceh in the north.

Trains offer a couple of key advantages over buses on Java: Their schedules are more reliable, and the stations are more centrally located. You can buy a ticket on the spot at windows called lokets , with varying prices depending on your desired class of travel. For the most comfortable ride, it’s worth paying extra to book in the roomy and air-conditioned executive class, a step up from business and economy classes, neither of which is air-conditioned. Seat reservations are only mandatory in executive class and on a few trains that travel the greatest distances.

Resources: Kereta-Api.co.id (Indonesian only)

Indonesia by Ferry

It’s no surprise that the world’s largest archipelago is serviced by a vast network of ferries that range from simple wooden boats with dubious safety standards and very little in the way of covered seating to 700-passenger steel ferries that cover enormous distances with various cabin options for passenger comfort onboard.

Ferries from Ketapang in east Java depart many times a day, 24 hours a day, to make the 30-minute crossing to Gilimanuk in western Bali (no need to book in advance — you can just arrive at the ferry port and buy a ticket for the next crossing). And from Bali’s Benoa Harbor it’s possible to get all over the archipelago on ferries that leave for such destinations as Gili Meno in Lombok, Surabaya on Java, Bima on Sumbawa, Maumere on Flores and Kupang in Timor.

The most reputable and reliable boats are those run by Pelni, the state-owned and -operated shipping company, with routes that travel across all of Indonesia with many ports of call (you can hop on and off where you want). These boats carry up to 5,000 passengers and have six classes of accommodation onboard, ranging from simple bench-style seating in the open-air top section of the boats to private cabins for the most comfort. It’s best to reserve in advance, especially during holiday times and religious periods (such as Ramadan), when boats run at maximum capacity.

If you’re traveling on other Indonesian ferries, be aware that safety standards and many other factors can vary widely. Gangplanks are often narrow and rickety, and people with mobility issues may have trouble boarding. Ferries are often oversold, so it’s normal to see passengers traveling long distances with no reserved seat on the open deck.

Car ferries also exist between many of the islands, and if you travel long distances this way you’ll most likely be sleeping in your car.

Resources: IndonesiaFerry.co.id Pelni.co.id (Indonesian only)

Indonesia by Scooter

After a few days in Bali watching the locals zip merrily to and fro on two wheels, many tourists feel tempted to rent a scooter of their own for a little island tour. But far too many deaths are attributed each year to scooter accidents in Indonesia, with both locals and tourists as victims. If you’re still tempted, be sure to wear a helmet at all times. We recommend giving it a pass if you’ve never driven a scooter before; Indonesia’s frenetic roads are not the ideal place to learn.

All over Bali and elsewhere in Indonesia you’ll find scooters to rent both from recognizable storefronts and from enterprising locals looking to score a bit of cash on their own rides. Scooters usually rent for around $5 to $6 per day, and you’ll be asked to leave a passport or credit card as a down payment. You can usually bargain down the price if you’re renting the scooter for a week or more.

Resources: Bali4Ride.com BaliBikeRental.com

Buses, Bemos, Becaks and More

Indonesian buses usually leave relatively on time and are very cheap, with options for booking your tickets a day or more in advance. The island of Java offers the most comprehensive bus services from Jakarta to outlying destinations, but standards vary drastically across companies and destinations, and travel times can be painfully long.

For that reason, tourists with more than an absolute shoestring budget often choose either to hire their own car and driver or — in the more touristy areas on Bali, Lombok and Java — to travel by tourist minibus shuttles that operate for reasonable per-person rates between major points of interest.

On the jam-packed communal minibuses called bemos , which have benches rather than seats in most cases, be sure to ask the fare when you board to avoid a possible rip-off situation when it’s time to get off. Essential to locals for short-distance travel in busy metropolitan areas, bemos range far and wide — but with no real map system or website to figure them out, you’re best off asking another person waiting for a bemo to help you figure out how to get where you’re going.

Within cities and towns you’ll often see variations on the rickshaw too. The motorized version is called a bajaj and carries two passengers behind the driver. The bicycle-style rickshaw, called a becak , also has room for two passengers, with the driver pedaling behind them. You’ll want to negotiate the rate with your driver ahead of time to avoid any misunderstandings.

Resources: GoSEAsia.about.com/od/Bali_Transportation/a/How-To-Ride-Bemo-In-Bali-Indonesia.htm TransJakarta.co.id (Indonesian only)

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–written by Terry Ward

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 Backpacking Indonesia Travel Guide

Indonesia is a land of contrasts. With such unique cultures and landscapes, each island has its own history and traditions. Honestly, with so much to do and see in Indonesia, it’s difficult to narrow down an itinerary for backpacking Indonesia, which is why I’m here to help! This backpacking Indonesia travel guide is for frugal travelers who want to get the most out of their trip.

With over 17,000 islands to choose from, Indonesia is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Located in Southeast Asia on both sides of the equator, there’s no way to cram all of Indonesia’s best into one trip. Hence, if you’re planning on going backpacking in Indonesia it’s best to choose a couple of regions and explore them thoroughly. The country is home to more than a hundred of ethnic groups, while some islands still have their nature as it was a millennium ago.

In this epic guide you will find the cost of travel in Indonesia, backpacking Indonesia routes, and general travel tips for this budget-friendly country so you can get around in Indonesia like a pro.

I bet you’re going to need it – the country is vast! And I mean it!

But no matter what you want to do, whether it’s getting involved in the cultural activities in Bandung, exploring Yogyakarta, visiting the archeological sites of Kraton Ratu Boko and Prambanan – this guide is built for you.

Let’s dive right in!

Where to Go Backpacking in Indonesia

I think you’ll agree with me when I say, Bali has been country’s main tourist magnet for decades. However, there’s so much more to Indonesia than this one most famous island. Bali is rightfully famous for captivating cultural scene, every kind of natural beauty, artistic vibe and incredible accommodation options. Everyone should visit Bali at least one, but backpacking Indonesia is all about getting out there and exploring the other islands.

As I said, Indonesia is vast, so there’s no shortage of things to do in Indonesia. From exploring Jakarta’s eclectic neighborhood to walking through tropical rainforests to catching a glimpse of the Komodo dragons, Indonesia has a lot to offer.

It’s nearly impossible see it all in one trip. 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. With thousands of islands to choose from, you can spend your lifetime in Indonesia and never see it all. With only two weeks to spare you can see a good cross-section of Indonesia. However, seeing the best of the countryside will require some careful planning and might prove to be quite intensive.

Below you’ll find some of Indonesia’s best places to visit if you only have one month (or less).

1 Month Backpacking Indonesia Itinerary

Here’s how to spend one month in Indonesia . This well-researched backpacking itinerary will take you through stunning natural beauty of Sumatra, stunning rice terraces and temples in Bali, and pedestrian-friendly Gili Islands. If you have less than 1 month for backpacking Indonesia, the itinerary below can also serve you well, pick and choose your favorite areas. Although, that may be easier said than done!

Backpacking Sumatra (5 Days)

Sumatra is the big island that is nowhere near as crowded as Bali. The island is filled with primal rainforests, epic waterfalls, volcanic peaks, and giant lakes. If you’re coming from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur , it takes about an hour and a half to get to the city of Medan . This means that even though Sumatra is a bit off the beaten path, it’s still easily accessible.

The adventurous Sumatra itineraries usually include the tiny village of Bukit Lawang in North Sumatra. This is an ecotourism hub where jungle treks give you a chance to catch a glimpse of the forest’s famous residents, the semi-wild orangutans. Then, you may want to take an optional side-trip to the island called Pulau Weh , then go to Lake Toba , the world’s largest volcanic caldera lake. You can plan to stick around for a while in the middle of it on the Samosir island . Bukittinggi , Padang , Mt. Kerinci , Harau Valley and the Mentawai Islands are other places that are worth your attention.

Backpacking Java (5 Days)

With over 140 million residents, Java is Indonesia’s main island and home of its capital city, Jakarta . Some backpackers craft an alternative itinerary and start in Jakarta because Indonesia’s bustling capital deserves a couple of days solely to feel the city vibe.

Arguably the most popular trip on Java is hiking Mount Bromo , and Kawah Ijen . There are plenty of tour guides and travel agents that offer tour packages to Mt. Bromo, it’s much more fun and rewarding to do on your own. Experiencing Mount Bromo without a tour is definitely a highlight of any backpacking Indonesia trip.

The next hike you can take on your way to the east of Java is Kawah Ijen. This one brings you down into the crater at Kawah Ijen to witness the magical blue flames and the impressive sulfur miners hard at work. The toxic blue-green lake It truly is a challenging hike.

While traveling across Java, don’t miss out on spending a few days in Yogyakarta . This is the cultural and artistic heart of the country and is a fascinating place to visit. Here you can visit Kraton Palace and Taman Sari water castle, enjoy the nightly performance at the Ramayana Ballet , and shop for some fly batik shirts.

Within just an hour outside of town, you can visit the breathtaking temple complexes of Borobudur and Prambanan . Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and great spots to catch a picturesque sunrise.

Backpacking Bali (5 Days)

If you’re seeking spiritual growth, there may be no better place on earth to find it than in this island paradise sprinkled with art and yoga retreats throughout the valleys, and one of the biggest hippie vibes in Indonesia. Bali has been drawing in tourists by the thousands for decades now, who flock here for culture, cuisine, art, and nature. This makes for an interesting mix of surfers, foodies, gap year travelers, digital nomads, honeymooners, and party-goers.

Although Bali is much smaller than its western counterparts, the island has many different environments. Here you’ll find world-famous beaches, beautiful rice paddies, several lakes, and a couple of active volcanoes.

Some choose to bounce around and stay in a few places, while others prefer to base in one town and take day trips from there. Ubud and Canggu are the most popular towns that so many folks from around the world call home.

Canggu is actually of the best places to base yourself in Bali. This relaxing beach town just north of Seminyak has been gaining in popularity in recent years, especially amongst digital nomad community. Canggu still attracts smaller crowds, while accommodation, yoga, dining options are pretty much endless.

To get a good feel of Bali and the best parts of what it has to offer, make sure you get out of that beach lounger. There are, in fact, many options for backpackers one can easily spend one month travelling through some of the most beautiful parts of Bali.

Need some ideas? Go surfing down in Uluwatu, Bingin, Impossibles, and Padang Padang, align your chakras in Ubud, dive in Amed, party in Seminyak, or simply practice yoga.

Backpacking Lombok (6 Days)

While you really can’t miss Bali on your backpacking trip around Indonesia, exploring some of Bali’s neighbors is well worth the effort. Lombok is only a 2,5-hour boat ride away from Bali. This incredible island is a popular choice mostly to Gili Islands , a group of three islands that have long been a backpacker favorite. The enchanting string of three tiny islands off the coast of Lombok is completely free of motorized vehicles and home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites in Southeast Asia.

The biggest island, Gili Trawangan , is known as the party island. It sees an interesting mix of visitors, ranging from backpackers to couples on holiday, to luxury tourists. Gili Trawangan is known as the party island, Gili Meno is the least developed, and Gili Air is a nice mixture of the two because it has more life than Meno but not as much a Trawangan. To get between the islands there is a fleet of boats, so you visit all three in just a few days and see for yourself which one you like the best.

Lombok boasts the second highest volcano in Indonesia which you can climb. A volcano that you can hike up to as part of many multi-day trekking tours should be high on your list when backpacking Indonesia. It usually takes from 2 to 5 days to complete the trek depending on whether or not you want to get to the summit and how quickly you want to move.

Backpacking Flores (5 Days)

The name of this island originates from Portuguese and means “Flowers”. The island of Flores is the only place in the region where a majority of the people are Catholic, meaning you’ll see a church in most villages rather than temples or mosques. A comparatively small number of tourists make it further east than Bali or Lombok, so the East Nusa Tenggara (Flores) stayed relatively untouched. The island, however, gets increasingly better known for its up to three-meter long poisonous lizards. But it has so much more to offer than just the Komodo Dragons.

The town of Labuan Bajo is situated in the most western point of the island Flores and builds the gate to Komodo National Park . Due to that, Labuan Bajo is most frequently the launching point of the Flores trip.

If you’re looking for some day trips from Labuan Bajo (Komodo NP, for instance), you can book one from tour operators near the Flores boat pier. While this trip can be a bit pricey, it’s one worth splurging on. The Komodo National Park consists of the islands Rinca, Komodo and Padar.

Boats depart from Labuan Bajo’s harbor multiple times per day and options usually range from one-day trips to longer excursions with two or three nights on the boat. Most boats will get you Komodo NP with snorkeling at Manta Point as well as Pink Beach , Rinca island and Palau Padar. It’s not necessary to book a trip in advance. Just pop into a few agencies on your way to the harbor to compare prices and quality.

Backpacking Sulawesi (4 Days)

Sulawesi is the fourth largest Indonesian island, which is usually referred to as the tropical heart of global biodiversity. The flora and fauna of Sulawesi make this lesser-known destination an incredible place to visit. If you’re adventurous enough to go off the beaten path then Sulawesi is worth a closer look.

The calm waters surrounding Sulawesi attract scuba diving enthusiasts from around the world. Like Raja Ampat Islands, Sulawesi has one of the most beautiful coral environments in the world. Bunaken Island in the bay of Manado in northern Sulawesi boasts an incredible marine life. To reach the island you can hop on a ferry from the Harbour Marina port and take a 40-minute boat ride. The translucent waters of the Bunaken National Park provide wonderful snorkeling opportunities too.

Obviously, the island sees fewer crowds (if any) than Java and Sumatra, however, there are a lot of things to do in Sulawesi. You would need a few months to truly explore the island. The highlight of any trip to Sulawesi is the elaborate funeral rituals and burial grounds of the Toraja .

It’s a bit creepy seeing dead embalmed in living trees and mummified dead bodies in everyday houses. Definitely not for the faint-hearted. The rituals are carried out in June, July, and August. The Tongkonan houses and the delicious highland coffee are the two other reasons to visit Sulawesi at least once!

Indonesia Entry Requirements for Backpackers

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival, and have at least two blank pages for entry into Indonesia. This is a mandatory requirement, and border agents may deny entry to travelers for failure to comply with this rule.

If you are visiting Indonesia as a tourist and staying for 30 days or less, you do not need a visa. Visa-free travel is available to citizens of 169 countries, including the United States and the UK – here’s a complete list .

If you’d like to spend more than one month backpacking Indonesia, you ask for a visa-on-arrival rather than the visa-free entry. This type of visa can be extended for another 30 days for a fee of $35 and doing so may require a few trips to an immigration office.

How to Travel in Indonesia

If you’re planning on traveling by boat and air between the Indonesian islands, it makes sense to set aside a portion of the budget for transportation costs. Domestic flights are actually quite cheap and offer good value for money for traveling long distances.

In tourist hotspots, you should have no problem finding local boat services and long-distance bus services. If you’re planning on popping over to a nearby island, your cheapest bet is to take a public ferry, since speedboats are inexpensive and run frequently between adjacent islands. It takes about 2 hours to travel by speedboat from Bali to Lombok, while you should expect to spend 4 hours when traveling on a local ferry and 30 minutes when flying. Ferry ride would obviously be the cheapest option.

Keep in mind, some voyages could take much longer because of adverse weather conditions or delays.

You’ll find that public transportation in Indonesia is much cheaper than hailing a cab. While transportation systems depend on the particular island, tourist-friendly cities like Jakarta offer a variety of transportation options.

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The Kereta Api Indonesia commuter rail is crowded but cheap (it costs about $0.25) and the Trans Jakarta busway is inexpensive and frequent. Expect the work schedule to be quite unpredictable though. Both systems offer air conditioning and female-only rail carriages.

It’s pretty easy to find motorbike rentals in most popular areas, at pretty affordable rates—often less than $20 a day.

On most of the islands, there will be local buses to get you pretty much anywhere. On Bali, you can travel with Kura Kura bus that has its buses running 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 the best option for getting between cities and towns. Consider using Grab and GoJek as great alternatives to taxis!

Indonesia Travel Guide to Getting Around

Because of the fact that Indonesia consists of many islands, the easiest way to get from region to region is via plane. This usually involves flying on a propeller plane since traveling by boats, buses, and Bemos may take a very long time. Getting around Indonesian islands can be quite complicated and getting anywhere quick takes a lot of effort.

On most islands, buses, boats, and rickshaws are the way to get around, unless you know how to ride a motorbike. If you do know, a good recommendation is to rent your own scooter for a day and drive around to all the attractions in the area. For short distances, you can also hire an ojek (ride-sharing motorcycle taxi) for a day and they will drive you around. For traveling within big cities in Java, and on Bali and Lombok you can use Grab.

When travelling long distances, your options will depend on which region you are in as they vary from island to island. There are trains, buses, bemos (small little-converted buses) and ferries.

Train travel in Java is a reliable, fast, comfortable and affordable way to get from A to B. If you follow this one month backpacking Indonesia itinerary, you can take the train from Jakarta and make your way down to Yogyakarta or Surabaya so no need to rough it out on buses. Ticket are available online making it one of the best ways to travel around Java.

Best Time of Year to Backpack Indonesia

Generally speaking, the best time to backpack Indonesia is from May to September which is during the dry season. Expect the weather to be more predictable and you are likely to experience clear blue skies making it perfect weather for trekking and scuba diving.

But don’t limit yourself to these months. Think about it, the rainy season just bear witness to some quick downpours that get everything wet for a few hours and then welcome the sun back in quite often.

It’s entirely up to you, but as someone who loves getting off the beaten track, traveling during the shoulder season (between April and June and September and October) would be a good time to visit as well.

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In fact, I traveled for three weeks in February on Java, and overall, I had great weather. While I was able to trek Bromo and Ijen, it’s mostly a matter of luck.

It’s also worth repeating that Indonesia is a massive sprawl of islands, and as such has various different climates and weather cycles across its ALL islands. I have been sat dry on one island before watching thunder and rain happening on the neighboring one. Round the year you will get somewhat of a constant temperature of 28-30°C in all of its islands. Hence, the best time to visit really comes down to what you want to see as well as the particular island you plan to explore.

Backpacker Accommodation in Indonesia

Accommodation, in general, is quite affordable, so you can find decent options on pretty much any island or in big city in Indonesia for less than $10. That said, accommodation really depends on the region. You’re obviously going to have far more choices on Bali than you will on Sulawesi, for example. On Sumatra, Java, Bali, Lombok, and Flores, you have plenty of choices for guesthouses and hostels.

I found that double rooms are usually better than the dorms. Some double rooms come en-suite, while others have shared bathroom facilities. Guesthouses in tourist hotspots, like Jakarta or Bali, and the popular tourist-oriented islands, have inflated room prices but prices are still affordable. For example, hostels can range from anything between $4 and $15 per night for a dorm bed.

Be sure to check whether the hostel you are staying in offers breakfast lunch included at that rate. If you want to make your trip a little bit more special, go for a slightly higher cost. Keep in mind, some hostels next to the beach will have daily shuttles to the city if they are far away.

Don’t forget to make that inquiry before making a reservation! However, the only time when you actually need reservation is when you’re visiting Bali over Christmas and New Year’s, as this is an incredibly busy time. For the most part, find accommodation on arrival.

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Below are a few of my favorite hostels and budget accommodation options when backpacking Indonesia:

Bali Bobo Hostel, Bali In Da Lodge, Bali Six Degrees, Jakarta Gili Klapa Hostel, Lombok Ndalem Mantrigawen, Yogyakarta POP! Hotel Denpasar, Bali Dragon Dive Komodo Hostel, Labuan Bajo

Tips to Save Money on Your Trip to Indonesia

To make your trip last longer and save money while backpacking Indonesia I recommend sticking to this simple and easy guide to budget and adventure travel:

Compare Prices

Indonesia can be incredibly affordable but you have to know where to look. In popular tourist destinations like Kuta in Bali, you will find restaurants charging upwards of $7 for a dish and $4,30 for a large Bintang beer. However, if you walk around for a while and explore some less crowded side streets you will discover more budget-friendly options for $1,4 for a meal and $2 for a large Bintang.

The point is, you shouldn’t settle for the first thing that comes your way. Prices vary around the country so it usually takes some time to get a feel for what is acceptable and what is overpriced.

Unfortunately, average prices are very dependant on the region. Less popular cities such as Surabaya are cheaper while small islands tend to be more expensive.

Comparing prices is also important for services such as renting scooter, snorkelling equipment and surfboard rentals as well as taking random taxis.

Keep in mind, if a seller refuses to negotiate their prices, the next might give you the same scuba diving set for half the price. The differences are extreme.

Eat Local Food

In busy tourist areas, there are plenty of restaurants offering mediocre versions of Western food. But I don’t think that is what you’re after when backpacking Indonesia. You don’t want to waste a bunch of money on tasteless hamburger because there are Warungs.

Warungs tend to be the family-run, smaller eateries that offer good value and a relaxed vibe. They offer affordable local food with limited seating. You’ll be able to find Warungs all across Indonesia and they can be your best bet for finding cheap food.

Depending on where in Indonesia you are you should be able to find a meal for $0,80 – $1,85. If you’re backpacking through Indonesia on a shoestring budget your best friends will always be Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles). You’ll find them pretty much everywhere. As well as street food stalls offering food locals (choose only those serving locals because they are generally the safest option).

Bargain, Haggle and Negotiate

In Indonesia, prices are rarely fixed. Outside of official stores haggling is normal and expected. In fact, haggling is like a game, but it can also be an art. The seller throws out a price, which is usually too high. You should expect this because they assume you will suggest a significantly lower price, a price you more than willing to pay.

The seller then throws out another price that is much higher than the one you suggested but lower than their initial offering. You then take that price to try to lower it again. And this goes on-and-on until the both of you meet a mutual agreement.

Pro Tip: Set a price in your mind before you start. Never start the bargaining process without a set price in your mind. That said, you’ll get a much better deal when you buy multiple items or rent something for a longer time. For example, if you’re buying souvenirs, renting a scooter for a week or booking multiple tours you can get a much better price. Research on this subject before hitting the market or ask other travelers to find out what they are paying.

Foods to Try on Your Backpacking Trip to Indonesia

The streets of Indonesian cities are filled with a a delectable array of cuisines to try. However, only local cuisine tells stories about the country’s customs and history. There’s no shortage of great local eateries, the captivating aromas from the street hawker stalls are like a magnet for all the foodies out there. From the famed Indonesian fried rice to different soups, here’s a breakdown of a few must-try dishes in Indonesia:

Nasi Goreng

Arguably the most ubiquitous dish in Indonesia made with sweet soy sauce topped with an egg, some crispy fish crackers, and a small side salad. Some places serve this with a few skewers of chicken satay or fried chicken.

Stir-fried noodles come with veggies and chicken usually. But can also have pork or tofu-it’s really up to you.

A salad made up of eggs, stir-fried vegetables, fried tofu or tempeh coated with a thick peanut sauce for protein. It is typically eaten with some krupuk shrimp crackers. A great choice for vegetarians.

Beef Rendang

This type of cooking is made from a mixture of coconut milk cooked in with lots of spices, giving it that rich and spicy flavor. It is often made with tender beef but you can also find other ingredients such as chicken, mutton, or goat.

Sate (Indonesian satay)

These little meat skewers widely available at street food stalls. They usually come in two varieties – chicken and goat. Juicy meat on sticks, dripping with mouthwatering peanut sauce and sambal chili sauce.

Looking for travel advice and tips for your next adventure in Southeast Asia? Check out my Southeast Asia Travel Guide .

Tips for Backpacking Indonesia

Bring a reusable water bottle.

Staying hydrated is very important in Indonesia. Because you’re going to spend a lot of time outside in the heat, you’ll need to bring a reusable bottle. Tap water in Indonesia is not suitable for drinking. Using a reusable bottle can help cut down on plastic use. Many cafes and restaurants, especially in popular tourist areas, have filtered water that you can use to refill your bottles, either for free or for a very small fee.

Carry Small Cash

Besides the convenience, you get when carrying small cash, it also makes sense to hide the big bills and only keep smaller banknotes in your pocket. Why? Imagine you get stopped by a policeman on your rented motorcycle and he asks you for every possible document that doesn’t even exist. Pretend that it is the only money you have and they will let you go. Also, be especially aware of pickpockets on buses or bemos and in busy places like Bandung and Jakarta.

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Remember, Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country (with the exception of Bali). The general rule is not to dress skimpy and cover up as much as the locals do when you’re out and about. Always obey the local law and use your common sense. Each year, during the month of Ramadan, Muslims should eat only at night and fast for the rest of the day, among other rules. The exact date depends on the lunar calendar but is usually around May and June.

What is Your Baggage Allowance?

If you’re flying budget airlines around Indonesia, I recommend that you look into baggage limits and know exactly how much weight you are allowed for your carry-on. While budget airlines in Indonesia are notorious for tacking on hidden fees, you may want to pre-purchase more check-in baggage weight allowance than you think you need. Keep in mind, additional luggage fees tend to be much higher at the check-in counter.

How Much Does Backpacking Indonesia Cost?

Indonesia is a vast, beautiful country and hence flying can your best choice. Especially when you are going from one island to the other.

You can get a flight ticket for as low as $50 if booked 1-2 weeks in advance. On average, boat rides cost less than $5 for a 4-5 hr long transfer from Bali to Lombok. For a motorbike rental, they charge approx $6-7 per day. A tank fill up will set you back a few bucks more.

Once again, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time in Indonesia. How much you spend depends on where you go and what your style is. If you’re planning on visiting multiple islands, your biggest expense will most definitely be transportation. All of those flights, local buses, ferries, motorbike rentals, and Grab and Uber rides eventually add up.

Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Yangon: A 2-day Yangon Itinerary

Take my advice. Do a bit of research to figure out the average costs before planning a trip that covers several islands. You’ll definitely save a lot by spending the majority of your time on one or two islands with a rented motorbike. As I said, rent a motorbike for longer periods of time to get discounts. Expect to pay around $5 a day for a motorbike.

Basically, if you stick to one or two islands, get around by bus, stay at hostels, and eat at local warungs, you can definitely pull off backpacking Indonesia on around $25-$30 a day. Those looking to see and do a bit more, stay in nicer hotels and add some adventure activities like diving or trekking may want to budget more like $60-$75 a day.

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Easy Travel Indonesia - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Indonesia Travel Guide

CAPITAL   Jakarta POPULATION   240,271,522 AREA   1,904,569 sq km LANGUAGE   Bahasa Indonesia CURRENCY   Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

For current information on government travel advice, please refer to the U.S. Passports & International travel , the Canadian Travel Advice and Advisories , the  Foreign & Commonwealth Office or the Australian Department of Foreign Affaires website.

For current information regarding health, recommended vaccines and the location of trustworthy doctors and medical clinics, please refer to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers website .

• 3 star hotel: $70
• 4 star hotel: $110
• 5 star hotel: $300
• Inexpensive restaurant: $1.71
• Meal for 2, mid-range restaurant, 3 courses: $11.97

220V/230V / 50Hz

Indonesia can be a difficult destination for those with limited mobility. Even if some of the airlines flying to Indonesia have a good reputation for accommodating people with disabilities, the airports are not well set up.

Public transport, minibuses used by shuttle bus and tour companies are not accessible. Ramps and other disabled facilities at hotels and inns are uncommon. Your best bet is to find accommodations suitable for wheelchair users by checking the ‘ Facilities for disabled guests ‘ option in your  Booking.com search criteria.

The footpaths, when they exist at all, tend to be narrow, uneven, potholed and frequently obstructed.

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Jakarta’s Sukarno-Hatta Airport and Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport are the main international air gateways into Indonesia, with direct flights from several Australian cities – there are flights to Bali from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Darwin. The archipelago also boasts international airports at Medan, Makassar, Manado, Surabaya and Yogyakarta – with connections mainly with other Southeast Asian airports.

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A few ferries and speedboats still depart from Malaysia – from Malacca and Port Klang, near Kuala Lumpur, to Dumai or Pekanbaru. You can also take ferries from Johor Bahru, in far southern Malaysia, and Singapore to Sumatra via the islands of Batam and Bintan.

There are two entry points between East Malaysia and Kalimantan. You can catch a bus between the capital of Malaysian Sarawak at Kuching to West Kalimantan’s capital, Pontianak. Alternatively, you can cross from the East Malaysian state of Sabah by catching a two- or three-hour ferry to Pulau Nunukan or Tarakan from Tawau, two days’ bus ride southeast of Kota Kinabalu.

Indonesia has good ferry connections with Malaysia and Singapore and there are occasional cargo boats from the Philippines.

A variety of ferries and speedboats depart from Penang, on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, to Medan and from Melaka in southern Malaysia to Dumai or Pekanbaru . You can also take ferries from Johor Bahru, in far southern Malaysia, and Singapore to Sumatra via the islands of Batam and Bintan ; and from Port Klang, near Kuala Lumpur, to Tanjung Balai and Dumai in Sumatra.

There are two entry points between East Malaysia and Kalimantan . You can catch a bus between the capital of Malaysian Sarawak at Kuching to West Kalimantan’s capital, Pontianak; alternatively, you can cross from the East Malaysian state of Sabah by catching a two-or three-hour ferry to Pulau Nunukan or Tarakan from Tawau, two days’ bus ride southeast of Kota Kinabalu.

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Travelling by Train in Indonesia

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Indonesia’s railway system is mostly limited to the main island of Java, and a small train line in Sumatra. If you have to travel between any destinations that connect to these train lines, the train is a very convenient way to travel.

The major destinations in Java that connect with the train lines are Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Malang Probolinggo (for Mt. Bromo ), and Banyuwangi (for Mt. Ijen and those hoping to cross from Java to Bali ),

The different train classes

There are three train classes in Indonesia: executive, business, and economy. All classes offer a good level of comfort. Your choice of train class will essentially depend on your budget, preference, and distance of travel.

Apart from the short-distance economy class, all are air-conditioned and have sockets (2-pin Europlug) for charging your electronics.

In most cases, there are big price differences between the three classes. However, prices can also vary within the same class even though there is no difference in the type of seat. This is why it’s much better to book early online before the cheaper seats get sold out.

One other thing to note: if you’re looking for the fastest train, stay away from trains with only economy-class cabins. Instead, take one that is also attached to business or executive class trains, which make fewer stops so you can reach your destination quicker. If you’re booking online, you can easily spot them by checking and comparing the travel time.

Economy Class (Ekonomi)

Economy class has five seats per row (two on one side and three on the other). The rows alternately face the front and back so that they face each other. They don’t offer a lot of privacy or legroom, but they often cost just 1/2 the price of an executive class seat.

We think this class is sufficient for journeys that take three hours or less. But for those that take longer, you might want to consider booking a business or executive class seat.

Non-aircon Economy Class

As the name suggests, these are open-window cabins with fans instead of aircon. Apart from that, everything else is similar to an air-conditioned economy class. Just keep in mind that as the cheapest train option, these are often very crowded.

These are only available on short journeys, so you shouldn’t have a problem taking one. Also, online booking is not available, so you’ll have to buy your ticket at the train station. Ticket prices shouldn’t be more than 30,000 IDR ($1.90).

Business Class (Bisnis)

From the economy to business class, there is usually a few dollars jump when it comes to ticket prices. We think it’s worth it for the extra legroom you get.

As opposed to the economy’s 2×3 seating arrangement, there are only four seats per row in the business class and the seats are a bit more comfy. Half of the rows face the front of the train, while the other half face the back, meaning the middle seats face each other. The business class is a good alternative to the executive, just note that its seats do not recline.

If you’re a budding photographer hoping to capture some good landscape shots along the way, then this is the class you’ll want to be in. That’s because you’re able to open the windows for a few shots.

Executive Class (Eksekutif)

The main draw of the executive class is its seats that recline up to 30%. Each seat comes with a small cushion as well as a footrest. There’s an armrest per individual seat too, which makes a lot of difference if you’re travelling alone.

Like the business class, there are four seats per row, two on each side, but all are facing forward. There is also the option to turn your seat around, which is very convenient if you’re travelling with your family or in a group.

The price difference between the executive and business class is normally not that much, usually just a couple of dollars. The downside is that most trains don’t have an Executive class wagon attached. This means there are less timeslots available if you only want to travel Executive.

Executive Luxury Class

The executive luxury class is a reasonably new level of train travel in Indonesia and comes closer to an aeroplane’s business class. Here you’ll be treated to plush solo seats that recline all the way until it’s a flatbed. These come with surround-walls, a flat-screen TV, and a blanket.

If you’re after that much comfort and privacy, expect to pay twice the amount of an executive class seat for the same route.

The executive luxury class was only introduced in 2018, so it’s not available on all trains yet. You’ll only be able to find them on some trains operating from Jakarta to Surabaya (Argo Bromo Anggrek and Sembrani) and between Jakarta to Yogyakarta, and Solo (Argo Dwipangga). There is only one executive luxury class on each of these trains, so seats are very limited.

How large are the price differences between each class?

To make it easier for you to decide which train class fits your preference, we’ve made a table of comparison for one of the most common Java routes, which is Yogyakarta to Surabaya.

Train ticket prices from Yogyakarta to Surabaya

For additional info, if you’re also wondering whether it’s better to take the bus instead of the train, bus rates for the same route start from 186,000 IDR ($11.50) and travel time is estimated at 6 hours. Do note that Java roads are often congested, so the advertised travel time is never guaranteed.

Where to buy the train tickets

There are 3 ways you can buy a train ticket in Indonesia:

• online via Tiket.Com
• at the ticket terminals of Indomaret convenience stores
• at the train station

Whichever method you use, note that you’ll need every passenger’s name and passport number.

Online Booking via Tiket.com

We highly recommend that you book your train ticket online well before your trip if you want to save money. The prices vary even for different seats within the same class. The cheaper ones, of course, sell out faster, which is why booking online will save you a lot of money.

You can conveniently book your ticket online via Tiket.com .

Note that there have been some reports of international (non-Indonesian) credit cards not being accepted for payment at Tiket.com. If you’re worried about this happening to you, you can contact their customer service beforehand to assist you with your booking. The problem is usually resolved after a short chat with one of their agents.

Ticket Terminal at Indomaret Convenience Store

If you’re already in Indonesia and want to book your tickets beforehand without going to the train station, you can still do it online or visit an Indomaret convenience store. It’s a popular brand with close to 17,000 branches in the archipelago.

Find the touch-screen ticket terminal inside the station and start your booking.

As far as we know, these ticket terminals are in Indonesian only, but don’t worry, we got you. First, lightly press i-tiket, and then Kereta Api. This will lead you to the booking page.

Here are some words you need to know to complete your booking:

• Kereta Api – Train
• Eksekutif/Bisnis/Ekonomi – Executive/Business/Economy (choose which one you prefer)
• Dewasa – Adult (anyone three years old and above)
• Infants – Any passenger under three years old
• HP – Handphone/mobile number. You can leave this blank.

In the case of a page error, chances are your desired train or train class does not have enough seats for the number of passengers. In that case, just go back to the previous page and edit that part.

You’ll know your booking was successful once you see the page asking for passenger details. Fill it out then click continue. The machine should print out a small ticket, which you are to bring to the cashier and pay for in cash.

Over-the-counter at the Train Station

You can also buy your train ticket at the station on the day of your trip (or a few days before if you have time to drop by). Again, keep in mind the risk of your desired sea or train class being fully booked if you buy your ticket too late.

At the station, you will usually find a desk with a bunch of ticket order forms. Get one and fill it out. It will ask for the same information you need when booking tickets online or at the convenience store: starting point, destination, travel date, train class, passenger names, and passport number (of all passengers).

Once done, get in line at any window with a sign that says “pemesanan” or ticket booking.

A few more things to note…

• Boarding pass – If you booked your ticket online, at Indomaret, or at the station (three days or more before the travel date), your ticket will probably be not enough to get you inside the train. You’ll need an orange boarding pass. You can get them by simply checking in via one of the check-in counters inside the train station. Make sure to do that no less than 10 minutes before departure time.
• Luggage allowance – In principle, each passenger is only allowed 20kg of luggage. But if you’re travelling with a companion or in a group, the luggage allowance is spread out. Say you’re in a group of three, it’s safe as long as your total luggage weight is 60kg or less. Note that they normally just check the weight of large suitcases or huge backpacks.
• Food & drink – You are allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the train. However, it is worth noting that every train has a cafeteria and they serve fairly good local dishes for a low price.

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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

Quiero comprar un billete de tren desde Yogyakarta a Malang.

A la hora comprar los billetes me surgen varias dudas. Entiendo que hay diferentes tipos de trenes (económica y algo más cara). Nosotros estamos interesados en el tren de la clase económica, pero a la hora de comprar el billete tenemos dudas. Ya que en este tren (malabar 122) hay opción de reservar diferentes asientos. Por un lado, la economi (subclass CA y CB) y por otro lado, ejecutiva (subclass AA y AB). No sabemos las difencias de todos estos asientos.

Me gustaría que nos pudieses resolver esta duda.

Hi Leire! The subclasses refer to the wagon’s location on the train in relation to the engine. For example: Subclass A is the farthest away from the engine, making it the quietest subclass among the executive trains.

Maarten actually travelled there last year and he could confirm that there is no difference in seats and amenities between the subclasses. The general consensus is to just pick the subclass with the cheapest prices. Even if you pay more it’s not always a guarantee that it’s better or more quiet.

The only thing you really have to pay attention to when booking tickets, as we mention in the article, is the train class — whether it’s economy, business, or executive. Hope this makes it clearer for you! Safe travels!

PD: Esta respuesta está escrita en inglés para que sea útil para los viajeros de todo el mundo. Recomiendo usar Google Translate para traducir esta respuesta al español.

Hola muchísimas gracias por tus post son realmente buenos y prácticos! Una pregunta porfa

Con cuanto tiempo se puede reservar el boleto de tren? Estoy intentando para mediados de mayo y me dice que no hay billetes Muchas gracias

Hi Isabel, you can book train tickets via Tiket.com about four weeks in advance. I hope you’re able to buy them now for your trip soon!

Ik wil met de agro Dwipangga van Jakarta naar Yogya reizen. Nu las dat er ook voorwaarden aan verbonden zijn. Is ook voldoende om naast de app ook de uitgeprinte vaccinatie bewijzen te tonen. Aangezien in de app niet alle boosters kan downloaden

Hi Paul, ik zou mij er niet zo’n zorgen om maken. Als je Indonesie binnenkomt zullen ze er waarschijnlijk wel naar vragen, maar voor binnenlandse reizen is de kans erg klein. Officieel is het wel verplicht, maar tijdends mijn recente reis in November ben ik slechts een van de vijf keer gevraagd naar mijn vaccinatiebewijs. Dit was bij de ferry van Java naar Bali. Een scan op mijn telefoon van 2 vaccinaties was overgens al voldoende. Tijdens mijn twee treinreizen en 3 binnenlandse vluchten ben ik geen enkele keer ernaar gevraagd. Geniet van je reis!

Hi, I would like to know if there’s a train service (executive class) between Jakarta and Madiun. How do I go about getting the ticket? What are the frequency like?

Hi Mohamed, there are daily trains operating between Pasar Senen in Central Jakarta to Madiun. You can check all your options on Tiket.com . TIP: To filter the search results you can select a train type like “Executive class” on the side bar.

The earliest trip is at 10:55 and there are trains almost every hour until 18:40. You can directly buy the tickets on the website. Safe travels!

I want to buy train ticket from Jakarta to Bandung train station..how do I do it

Hi Mandy, you can get the best rates when you book in advance. We recommend buying your tickets online via Tiket.com . Alternatively, you can buy your ticket at the train station or at the ticket terminals of Indomaret convenience stores. We hope this helps! Have a safe trip!

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