indonesia hiking trip

Hiking in Indonesia: 12 Incredible Hikes in Indonesia for the Bucket List

Love hiking and want to know where are the best hikes in Indonesia to experience? You’re at the right spot!

As huge fans of hiking and trekking, Indonesia has plenty of exhilarating and adventurous hiking trails to not miss. What’s not to love about spending time outdoors, getting exercise, and seeing incredible views on top of the mountains and inactive volcanoes?! 

Indonesia has over 17,000 islands and there are so many hiking trails to choose from.

With the help of our travel blogging friends, we’ve narrowed down the top 12 places to go hiking in Indonesia, including day hikes and multi-day hikes . The list includes the hiking tips, hiking difficulty level, round trip distance, how to get to the trail, and the admission cost in Indonesian Rupiahs and U.S. Dollars. We want you to be fully prepared for these hikes.  

Now, let’s put on hiking boots and go on many hiking adventures in Indonesia !

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Indonesia Hiking Tips

Before diving into the list of Indonesia’s hiking trails, hikers need to prepare for their trip. Here are some helpful hiking tips and what to bring on a future Indonesia hike.

• Bring a sturdy, lightweight backpack. Depending on the length of your hike, hikers need to have a backpack to hold the essential items. We recommend a backpack that has shoulder and hip belts so the weight of the backpack can be shifted throughout the hike. We use this backpack for all of our trips: men and women versions.
• Stay hydrated and bring a reusable water bottle. Many of the trails don’t have running water or have a convenience store, so it’s recommended to bring water. To reduce plastic usage in Indonesia, bring a reusable water bottle .  
• Wear hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes. Hiking boots are necessary for hikes with uneven surfaces and dirt paths. You may need waterproof shoes if you plan a hike during the rainy season. We’ve used these hiking boots (women) for years and they’ve held up well.
• Wear proper hiking clothes and sunscreen and bring a hat. Moisture-wicking clothes will be helpful to wick away the sweat. Also, bring a hat to block off the sun. We love wearing these sun hats .  
• Use hiking poles to help with stability. Some of the hiking trails will be steep so hiking poles will be helpful. Plus, they help save your knees from hiking downhill.
• Do not litter and follow the Leave No Trace principles. Let’s keep Indonesia beautiful! Always bring your trash with you to dispose of properly. Here is more information on Leave No Trace ideals . 
• Don’t forget to have travel insurance! Something may happen during the hike and you may need medical attention.

Map of the Incredible Hikes in Indonesia

Click on the image to see a larger view of the Indonesian hiking trail locations. Credit: Map data: Google

1. Mount Bromo

Hiked by Kaylini, The Curated Travelist

Location : Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Probolinggo, East Java

Round Trip Distance: 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) 

Duration: 20-50 minutes one-way to reach the crater rim

Difficulty: Easy

Mount Bromo is considered to be one of the most spectacular day hikes in Indonesia due to its majestic sunrise panoramic and crater rim views .

Apart from the scenic environment, it’s a generously easy hike as you don’t need to climb the full elevation and require minimal climbing or fitness preparation for this adventurous destination.

Sunrise at Mount Bromo is viewed from the vantage of Mount Penanjakan (a neighboring peak a short 4×4 drive from the entrance of Bromo Tengger National Park).

From this viewpoint, one can take the famous scene of sunrise unfolding with Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, and Mount Batok as the backdrop.

Once you’ve completed embracing the sunrise, you’ll take a 4×4 drive to the Mount Bromo permit post to commence your journey up Bromo. 

Starting with a short walk across the “sea of sand” which is an area covered in volcanic ash but not especially deep, then trekking the dune terrain of the slope of Mount Bromo where you’ll then find the carved steps up to the crater summit.

The summit is at an impressive elevation of 2,329 meters (7,641 feet) above sea level. 

Peering into the depths of an active volcano is few most travelers can boast of which makes this a must for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.

As a result of the jaw-dropping views, lack of hiking skills needed, location-friendly access, and affordability it makes for an extremely popular day trip for locals and tourists alike visiting East Java and a must for any traveler looking for more than just Bali and beaches in Indonesia.

Mount Bromo is an easy day hike to experience in Indonesia. Photo credit: The Curated Travelist

How to Get there: The closest major cities are Surabaya and Malang which are easily accessible by flight from Jakarta or Bali.

A tour is highly recommended as travel from the cities as well as accommodation and guides can be arranged before arriving at this popular destination.

Admission Cost: 220,000 IDR ($15.80 USD) for weekdays; 320,000 IDR ($23.00) for weekends if visiting on your own 

Check out these Mount Bromo tours:

Bromo Sunrise Tour from Malang  

Bromo Private Tour from Surabaya

Ijen and Bromo 3-Days Tour from Bali

Read More: Visit Colorful Houses in Malang

2. ijen (kawah ijen).

Hiked by Martina and Jürgen, PlacesofJuma 

Location: East Java 

Round Trip Distance: 6 kilometers (3.8 miles) 

Duration: Half-day tour; Walking time (without breaks) 3-4 hours round trip 

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate 

Ijen is a volcano with a total diameter of 75 kilometers (46.6 miles). One of the most interesting hikes leads out to the turquoise crater lake Kawah Ijen , which is considered to be the largest acid barrel on earth. Here, sulfur is mined under the most difficult conditions. 

In the past, the hike was still considered an insider tip, but today you can book this tour even in the travel agencies of Bali. Nevertheless, the hike is a cool experience that you should put on your travel list when traveling to Java.

The hike starts at the parking lot. Be careful as the temperatures can be very cool. Weatherproof clothing is an advantage here.

A well-maintained path of about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in length goes up to the crater. You start the tour along with the sulfur workers. The ascent takes about 90 minutes until you reach the crater.

At the top of the crater, you’ll see fascinating sceneries of the steaming crater lake .

If you dare, and if you can stand the stench of the toxic sulfur, you can hike down to the southeast shore of the lake, one of the most active solfataras on earth and the most significant sulfur accumulation in Indonesia.

But beware as officially it’s forbidden to go down the crater because of the danger. Nevertheless, most tourists go down together with the sulfur workers.

Down there, the sulfur is broken off at the bottom by the miners with iron rods and stowed in the bamboo baskets.

The heavy baskets of the miners, filled with up to 70 kilograms (154 pounds) of sulfur chunks, are then carried down to the valley by the often even lighter workers. It’s unbelievable what conditions the workers are exposed to daily!

Extra tip: Take a hike at night to see the famous Blue Flames and then experience the sunrise at the crater rim.

Ijen needs to be on your Indonesia hiking bucket list. Photo credit: PlacesofJuma

How to Get There : Taking a taxi or a tour from Banyuwangi . Tours can also be booked from Bali.

Admission Cost: 220,000 IDR ($15.80) for weekdays; 320,000 IDR ($23.00) for weekends if visiting on your own

Book a Mount Ijen tours for easier planning:

Overnight Mount Ijen Tour from Bali 

Mount Ijen Sunrise Tour from Bali or Banyuwangi 

3-Day Ijen Crater & Mount Bromo Tour from Bali

3. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Hiked by Cassie, Cassie the Hag

Location: East Java

Round Trip Distance: Unknown

Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes round trip 

Difficulty: Moderate

One of the amazing and most memorable hikes in Indonesia is Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. Sure, it’s no scenic coastal vista or active volcano, but the trek itself is unique .

While not a long hike, it takes around 40 minutes each way, it has its challenges. Parts of the hike down are made from half-rotten ladders bolted onto the rock face or with ropes where the path is slippery from mini waterfalls disrupting the path. At the bottom, you also have to cross a slow-moving river. 

While great for a feeling of adventure, do bear in mind that you’ll need fairly good balance and take some deep breaths if you have a fear of heights. That said, it should be doable for anyone with moderate fitness, and you can always pay a small fee to a local guide if you’re worried. 

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall itself is magnificent. It’s truly a real ‘untouched paradise,’ though that may change now visitors to Bali are seeking less saturated adventures in nearby East Java .

To make the most of your day, combine this trip with the hike to Kipas Biwu Falls . This second waterfall is stunning in its own right.

The hike is long but overall less challenging than the first and deserted other than a group of locals swimming in the rock pools below. Overall, it’ll be one of your favorite days in Indonesia without a doubt. 

Hiking to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a fun adventure to try. Photo credit: Cassie the Hag

How to Get There: To reach Tumpak Sewu Waterfall , the easiest way is to get a shared car from Malang. 

Admission Cost : 20,000 IDR ($1.40)

Book Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Tours:

Click here for a private tour which includes transportation from Malang or Surabaya  

Click here for a 3-Day Tour of Mount Bromo, Ijen, and Tumpak Sewu from Surabaya

Read More: Take the Train from Surabaya to Yogyakarta

4. mount batur.

Hiked by Editors, Jackie and Justin, Life Of Doing

Location: East Bali

Round Trip Distance: Approximately 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles)

Duration: 3.5+ hours round trip 

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Climbing Mount Batur at sunrise is considered one of the best hikes in Bali to experience. This bucket list hike is located in the northeast part of the island.

Hikers get up super early in the morning to do this day hike up the inactive volcano at 1,717 meters (5,633 feet) high. 

The hike is not too difficult and is suitable for beginner hikers.

It starts at 4:00 am and in the dark, so headlamps or flashlights are needed at the beginning of the trail.

The climb on the mountain is a steady hike up a rocky, dirt path along a single track. Take the time to go up the path as some areas are slippery. 

At the summit, find a spot to sit and wait for the sunrise. As a heads up, the summit is extremely windy. It’s recommended to wear long pants and to bring a jacket. There is a small cafe at the summit, so warm yourself up with a cup of hot coffee. 

If the skies are clear, you’re rewarded with a gorgeous sunrise that overlooks the caldera, Lake Batur, and surrounding towns . Purples, blues, and orange colors light the skies while the vibrant sun peeks through the clouds. Sometimes the sunrise isn’t guaranteed, so it’s a matter of luck.

Once the hike is completed, the tour continues with either a stopover at a local coffee plantation so you can try a variety of coffees and teas or at a hot spring.

Since you completed the hike in the morning, you still have the full day ahead of you to explore Bali . 

Mount Batur is a popular sunrise hike in Bali to try.

How to Get there: The easiest way to get to the trailhead is to join a group hiking tour. The Bali hiking tour includes pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation from Ubud , guides, breakfast, water, and/or a side trip to a coffee plantation or hot spring.

The trailhead is about 37 kilometers (23 miles) away from Central Ubud and requires a 1-hour drive one-way.

Admission Cost: While access to the trail is free, expect to pay between 300,000-400,000 IDR ($21-$28) per person for the tour. 

Reserve a Mount Batur hike today:

Small Group Mount Batur Sunrise Hike  

Private Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Hidden Waterfall

2 Days Mount Batur Sunset & Sunrise Camping

Read More:   Amazing Things to Do in East Bali

5. campuhan ridge walk.

Hiked by Brittany, Brittsbellavita

Location: Ubud, Bali

Round Trip Distance: 4 kilometers (2.5 miles)

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Beginner

You can easily access Campuhan Ridge’s out-and-back hiking trail from the Ubud City Center, making this a fun and accessible trail for those looking to enjoy stunning views of Bali’s rice fields and lush greenery without the hassle .

Begin your journey down in the jungle by the beautiful ancient temple called Pura Gunung Lebah before making your way up onto the ridge walk. 

As you crest to the top of the ridge you’ll come upon a small village of cafes and art shops.

Grab a refreshing drink to cool off from the hike or shop around for some souvenirs to take home. You’ll find that the prices of art and items are much cheaper in this village than in downtown Ubud. 

If you want to enjoy the trail at its most peaceful hours, hike at sunrise or sunset to beat the crowds and the midday heat .

TIP: Make sure to bring water to stay hydrated because it can get quite hot and there is no shade for most of the trail. 

On your way out check out the Gunung Lebah Temple and head down the steps to view the Pont de Campuhan bridge and river.

You won’t want to miss out on experiencing the serene and stunning views of the Campuhan Ridge Walk, especially if you’re visiting Bali on a honeymoon . 

Campuhan Ridge Walk has incredible views and is a must-visit hiking spot in Bali. Photo credit: Brittsbellavita

How to Get There: The easiest way to enter the trail is from Downtown Ubud. Add Warwick Ibah Resort into your Google maps and go down the road with the sign that says, “Going to the Hill.”

As you walk down the road Jl Bangkiang Sidem, the temple is on the left and the trail to the ridge walk is on the right. 

Admission Cost: Free

Read More: Incredible Day Trips from Ubud To Not Miss

6. kelingking beach.

Hiked by Victoria, Guide Your Travel

Location: Nusa Penida

Round Trip Distance: 800 meters (.5 miles)

Duration: 40 minutes to go down, 90 minutes to go back up

Difficulty: Challenging

The hike down to Kelingking Beach might just be one of the most popular things to do on the little island of Nusa Penida. The trail is notorious for being extremely steep and feels more like a climb in some places. 

You should only attempt this hike with appropriate footwear and if you have some level of physical fitness.

Since the trail leads you down a 400 meters (1,312 feet) high cliff, the hike down to Kelingking Beach can be incredibly dangerous if you’re not careful. Always hold on to the handrails and let other hikers pass if necessary. 

The hike is worth the effort though. You’re rewarded with incredible views and of course the beauty of Kelingking Beach when you reach the bottom .

Refresh yourself with some cold drinks from one of the little beach stalls and keep an eye out for the manta rays that like to gather in the bay.

While swimming is allowed, be careful with the currents as they can be very strong. (Note: Please check the current situation if swimming is allowed.)

Don’t forget that you have to make your way back up again. The way down Kelingking Beach is a lot easier than hiking back up.

Temperatures are usually very hot so you’ll climb up nearly vertically in the scorching sun. Take plenty of breaks and make sure you drink enough water. 

Hiking down Kelingking Beach is challenging, yet rewarding. Photo credit: Guide Your Travel

How to Get There: It’s easy to get to Nusa Penida from Bali as you take a speed boat r ide from Sanur . On the island, hire a driver or rent a motorbike to go to Kelingking Beach.

Editors’ Note: The road to Kelingking Beach is paved, yet very steep. When driving a motorbike on Nusa Penida , please be careful and take your time descending. There are too many motorbike crashes that occur. 

Admission Cost: 5,000-10,000 IDR ($.36-$.72) per person and a small fee for motorbike parking

Sign up for a Nusa Penida Tour which includes Kelingking Beach:

2 Day Tour of Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan

One Day Tour of West Nusa Penida

Read More: How to Spend 4 Days on Nusa Islands

7. seganing waterfall.

Hiked by Sean, LivingOutLau

Distance: Unknown

Duration: ~30 minutes one-way 

One of the most off-the-beaten-path hikes in Indonesia is the Seganing Waterfall hike. Seganing Waterfall is located on Nusa Penida, 67 kilometers (41 miles) away from Bali. 

Though only 30 minutes long, the difficulty of the Seganing Waterfall hike is high.

That is because the trail starts at the top of the cliff and takes you on the edge of the sheer cliffs down to the waterfall.

The only thing that prevents you from your certain death is the man-made bamboo structures made by locals, and they aren’t exactly structural engineers.

Besides getting squished by a possibly unstable bamboo structure and a shear wall, there are parts of the hike where you need to do minor rock climbing. Small indents have been dug into the rock surfaces to allow hikers to hold onto and make their way up and down.

Though adventurous and slightly treacherous, the hike boasts incredible views of the dramatic cliffs and sea of Nusa Penida.

Once you have arrived at the end of the hike, you’ll arrive at a small waterfall and a pool where you can soak as you watch the crashing waves.

Seganing Waterfall is located in the southern part of Nusa Penida, so visitors intending to visit Seganing Waterfall should plan to stay overnight.

There are plenty of amazing places to stay in Nusa Penida , many of which allow you to enjoy the lush scenery that Nusa Penida is known for!

Heading to Seganing Waterfall is a unique hiking trail to experience on Nusa Penida. Photo credit: LivingOutLau

How to Get There: Drive a motorbike or hire a driver to get to the waterfall entrance. 

Read More: Explore Nusa Penida in 2 Days

8. mount rinjani.

Hiked by Ummi, Ummi Goes Where?

Location: Lombok

Round Trip Distance: 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) 

Duration: 2-3 Days

Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging

At 3,726 meters (12,224 feet) above sea level, Rinjani is the second-highest mountain in Indonesia. It’s an active volcano with its most recent eruption in 2016.

But what Rinjani is most famous for is its massive caldera that contains a beautiful sapphire-blue lake called Segara Anak . This lake is the world’s highest caldera lake with an active volcano in its center.

However, despite its high altitude, the water is not as cold as you might imagine. It averages around 20 o Celsius (68 o F), which is several degrees warmer than the surrounding temperature.

There are two different routes to climb Mount Rinjani. The Senaru route takes you through the lush tropical rainforest, while the Sembalun Lawang route passes through rolling hills and grasslands.

To get the most out of your trip, you might consider going up one route and down the other.

It takes 7-8 hours to hike to Rinjani crater rim , where you can set up camp overlooking the lake. Most hikers stop here before going back down the next day. 

An extra challenge is to continue hiking down to the lake and/or up to the summit. This is where the difficulty level goes from moderate to difficult. Only 25% of Rinjani hikers make it to the top.

Although the trail to the summit isn’t technical, it’s very steep, windy, and the ground is made up of loose volcanic sand.

After your hike, check out these other exciting Lombok attractions to visit on the island.

Mount Rinjani is an adventurous hiking spot to trek for a few days. Photo credit: shahreen via Depositphotos.com

How to Get There: Fly direct into Lombok from Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, Singapore , or Kuala Lumpur .

There’s also a ferry service from Bali. Check here to buy speedboat tickets between Bali and Lombok.

If you book a tour, your guide will pick you up from wherever you’re staying in Lombok to Mount Rinjani.

If you’re going independently, you need to either self-drive or hire a driver to take you on the 2.5 to 3-hour journey.

Admission Cost: The entrance fee is 150,000 IDR ($10.70) per person/day. An all-inclusive tour package would cost anywhere from $100-$400, depending on the tour company, duration of the hike, and the number of people in the group.

Check out this Mount Rinjani Tour:

2 Days/1 Night Mount Rinjani Private Trek

9. Padar Island

Location: Komodo National Park

Round Trip Distance: 1.6 kilometers (1 mile)

Duration: 30-40 minutes round trip without breaks

Padar Island is one of the most photogenic places to visit in Indonesia and also has a short hike to conquer.

As one of the stops on a Komodo National Park day trip tour, hiking to the summit of Padar Island provides the iconic panoramic view of three turquoise bays and sandy beaches. You’ll want to capture this postcard-perfect shot!

The out-and-back hiking trail isn’t difficult, so it’s great for beginner hikers.

The first portion of the trail is a wooden staircase. Once you reach the dirt path, follow the most used trail along the dirt path.

Watch out for loose gravel and rocks and you may need to hoist yourself up some rocks. As you get closer to the summit, the path gets a bit steeper. 

The summit is approximately 160 meters high (525 feet) so it’s a quick hike up. At the summit, take the time to soak in the beauty and capture the moment. There are a few photo spots where you can get the three bays in the photo. 

Remember to bring water as the trail isn’t shaded. 

Padar Island is one of the best hikes in Indonesia to see gorgeous views!

How to Get There: Take a Komodo National Park day tour from Labuan Bajo . Visitors take a speedboat or a wooden boat to the various attractions. 

Admission Cost: There isn’t an admission cost when you arrive on Padar Island.

You’ll pay a Komodo National Park fee when you arrive at Rinca or Komodo Islands. The starting cost is 150,000 IDR ($10.70) for weekdays and 225,000 IDR ($16.00) for Sundays and holidays. Extra fees may be applied. 

Check out Padar Island with a Komodo Islands tour:

2 Days Komodo National Park Tour  

10. Mount Kelimutu

Hiked by Ellie, Ellie’s Travel Tips

Location : Flores Island

Round Trip Distance : 24 kilometers (15 miles)

Duration : 6 hours round trip

Difficulty : Moderate

Mount Kelimutu is world-renowned for the three tri-colored lakes nestled at the top of it. Collectively, the locals refer to these magnificent bodies of water as Kelimutu Lake.

Sitting at over 1,600 meters (5,249 feet), every step along this uphill hike will be worth it.

At the top, you’ll notice these magical, color-changing lakes with a breathtaking, panoramic view of the mountaintop landscape.

The colors of the lakes tend to be a bright blue, but they’re known to range between green, blue, red, and black depending on the season and other natural occurrences.

The actual hiking trail is a simple stairway, perfect for any hiker looking to see these magnificent lakes.

Hiking up Mount Kelimutu at sunrise is the best as you’ll get the chance to take in the enchanting turquoise waters contrasting against the vivid oranges and yellows of the sunrise.

Make sure to wait until the sun shines on the color-changing lakes before you leave to watch them truly transform.

It’s best to visit during Indonesia’s dry season (between May and September), however, it may be more crowded. The entrance gate opens at 4:30 am, so make sure to wake up early and start your Indonesian hike before the other tourists arrive!

Mount Kelimutu is a fascinating hike in Indonesia to see the colorful lakes. Photo credit: Ellie’s Travel Tips

How to Get There: Start your hike in the nearby city Moni . From here, follow the path to the Rainbow Café, towards a waterfall, and over a stream. Then, continue through a small village and start to head uphill on the path.

Admission Cost: 150,000 IDR ($10.70) on weekdays; 250,000 IDR ($18.00) on Sundays and public holidays if visiting on your own

11. Mount Api (Gunung Api)

Hiked by De Wet & Jin, Museum of Wander

Location : Banda Islands, Maluku Province

Round Trip Distance : Approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles)

Duration : 4 hours round trip 

The Banda Islands, located in Maluku province in eastern Indonesia, are known for having the best snorkeling in the country. At the center of the Banda archipelago, surrounded by incredible coral gardens, is the circular island of Banda Api. 

It’s dominated by the active volcano, Mount Api ( Gunung Api ), which means Fire Mountain. Gunung Api is 640 meters (2,100 feet) high and a half-day hike to the top of the volcano rewards you with a breathtaking view of the whole archipelago . 

The island of Banda Api is separated from the island of Banda Neira where a few guesthouses are found, by a few hundred meters of water.

Your guesthouse will help you organize a small boat to take you across the water to the trailhead.

It’s recommended to leave Banda Neira just before sunrise and return for a late lunch and a long nap.

The path leading up to the summit is easy to follow, but the walk is quite intense as it heads straight up the volcano and the angle is quite steep.

The first half of the trek is through lush bamboo, ferns, and forest. About halfway up, the trees stop, and then the path has rocks and gravel to the top.

On the summit, soak in that incredible view and stretch out on the hot gravel that is heated by the volcanic activity underneath.

The last time Gunung Api erupted was in 1988 and you can see three huge gaping craters with lava flows tumbling to the cobalt blue waters below.

Gunung Api is a highlight when hiking around Banda Islands. Photo credit: Museum of Wander

How to Get There: Getting to the Banda islands is not always that easy, but it’s one of the most incredible places to visit in Indonesia. To get to the trailhead, your guesthouse can help organize the boat ride.

12. Baliem Valley

Hiked by Christian, Unusual Traveler

Location : West Papua Province

Round Trip Distance : Varies from 4-14+ kilometers (2.5-8.7+ miles)

Duration : 1-5 Days

Difficulty : Moderate – Challenging

In Eastern Indonesia’s West Papua province is a valley where time has been standing still, the Baliem Valley.

It’s the reason most visitors want to visit this part of Indonesia as the valley is named one of the world’s last fascinatingly traditional areas .

You can visit small remote villages and see locals still walking around half-naked and living the traditional way of life.

The Baliem Valley is a hikers’ paradise, but there are a few things you need to know before you decide to go hiking here.

First, you’ll need a permit from the local police office to be allowed to hike and visit everything outside the largest town, Wamena . Some of the hikes start from just outside the edge of Wamena but most hikes will start an hour drive away.

And while you’re allowed to hike independently, it’s highly recommended to hire a local guide . The guide finds the right path around the valley and the surrounding jungle and provides safety. A large part of the valley is home to the Dani tribes which are not always used to foreigners.

You’re required to get a porter to help carry the food needed during the hike. This is useful since there aren’t any restaurants and shops outside the largest town.

Before you decide to visit the valley, decide if you want to do shorter day hikes or if you want to do longer hikes which can last up to two weeks.

The hiking trails don’t have specific names as it’s the names of the villages where you’ll start and finish.

One recommendation is a 5-day hike in the eastern part of the valley from Sogokmo to Sobaahan and back to Sogokmo on the opposite side of the valley.

Baliem Valley is an off-the-beaten-path destination to go hiking in Indonesia. Photo credit: Unusual Traveler

How to Get There: To get to Baliem Valley, travelers take a small propeller flight from Jayapura , the capital and largest city in the West Papua Province.

Once in Wamena, follow the main road to the end and start the hike from there. There aren’t any signs or markings for the hikes around Baliem Valley, so getting a local guide is often essential to find the trail.

Admission Cost: $70 per day for the guide and porter 

Note: The West Papua province in Indonesia is more expensive than the rest of Indonesia so prices for guesthouses, food, and transportation are often double or triple from the rest of the country.

How many of these Indonesian hiking trails are now on your bucket list? We hope you enjoyed this list of incredible hiking and trekking opportunities to experience in Indonesia. Add one or more of these trails to a future Indonesia itinerary.

Enjoy the time outdoors!

Like this post? Save it to your Indonesia Pinterest board.

Featured photo credit: Victor De Valles ibañez via Scopio Photos

Pin #1 photo credit from top to bottom: Jessica May via Scopio Photos; shahreen via Depositphotos.com

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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Incredibly beautiful trails! I recently took up hiking in Kenya, so I feel like I appreciate this post more now!

WooHoo! Glad to hear that you went hiking in Kenya! I don’t know much about Kenya’s hiking trails and would love to hear more about your experiences.

Mt. Bromo and Ijen (Kawah Ijen) seems to be a popular destination as I have read about them before. Mount Rinjani looks beautiful too. I would love to go hiking there someday.

Hi Joydeep. We agree with you! We have these hikes on our bucket list as well. Hope Indonesia reopens to international tourists in 2022 so we can hike up these mountains.

Hi Jackie. Love reading about your travels in Indonesia. As a trekking guide on Mount Rinjani, you are supporting our life. We need more traveler bloggers like you to promote it.

Thanks so much for the kind words! Appreciate your hard work in supporting hikers on Rinjani. We know it’s not an easy hike to do. We look forward to trekking Mount Rinjani in the future.

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Indonesia's 8 most amazing hikes: waterfalls, volcanoes, and jungles

Apr 2, 2022 • 7 min read

Summit Indonesia's Mt Batur in time for sunrise, and the sky burns with color © m-gucci / Getty Images

Most visitors to Indonesia come for the sun, sand, world-class surf, and Instagram photos. But beyond the well-trodden tourist trail, this vast country offers so much more: volcanoes, carpets of deep green jungle, tropical islands with reality-defying views, and deceptively dangerous lakes, so beautiful they almost beg you to dive straight in.

Despite being home to more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia’s best hikes are relatively accessible. Hiking tours and leaders are available for the most popular treks, especially for routes near or on volcanoes, which can't even be attempted without a local guide. A number of other hikes require a nominal entry fee.

Just remember to come prepared, and be ready for the unique adventure that only trekking in Indonesia can offer. Here are the best hikes in Indonesia.

Mt Batur, Bali

Best sunrise hike.

6.8km (4.2 miles), 4 hours, easy-moderate

Despite being the general entry point for trekking in Indonesia, the hike up Mt Batur is truly amazing. Framed by the distant peaks of Mt Rinjani and Mt Agung, the sky burns with color if you summit in time for sunrise. You'll need to get up early to cherish the experience, though – most travelers leave their hotels at 3:30am – and you'll find yourself sharing the peak with plenty of other like-minded hikers and tourists.

The climb itself is generally easy, on a meandering, well-trodden trail. It suits most hikers with a base level of fitness, and there are several spots to rest along the way. Come prepared with water, a headlamp (if you have one), and a good jacket for that cold, crisp morning air on top of the volcano.

Read more:  7 gorgeous hikes in Bali you can't miss

Mt Ijen, East Java

Best hike for natural phenomena.

14.5km (9 miles), 3 to 4 hours, easy-moderate

One of the most unique hikes in the world and another of Indonesia's most popular, the midnight trek up  East Java 's Mt Ijen is best completed in the dark so you can see its famous blue-fire phenomenon: electric-blue smoke that billows out of the crater, created by a large amount of sulfur in the air coming into contact with the intense heat from the volcano.

The hike is generally easy and can be completed by hikers of any skill level. However, once you reach the summit, things become a little more complicated, especially if you want to descend into the crater. The footing here is tough, and unsure in the dark. You will also need to wear gas masks to enter the crater. Inside is a beautiful turquoise lake, but touching the water can be fatal – it has the highest acidic level of any lake in the world.

Gunung Rinjani, Lombok

Best multi-day trek.

41.4km (25.7 miles), 2-3 days, moderate

A bucket-list hike for many, this Lombok trek offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. On their way to the summit of Gunung Rinjani , the second-highest mountain in the country, hikers camp on the rim of the world's highest caldera lake, where they can witness both sunrise and sunset from the roof of Indonesia.

For the most part, it's not a technically difficult route, but the optional climb to the true summit is hard, with strong winds and loose scree underfoot. There are two tracks to the top, and most tours take you up one side and down the other. Hikers will find themselves starting out in tropical jungle before walking through lush savannah and rolling grasslands the following day. If you're lucky, a troop of black Javan lutung monkeys may even make an appearance.

Note that depending upon the volcanic activity in the area, the summit or the lake could be closed. Check with your tour company before setting off.

Tumpak Sewu, East Java

Best waterfall hike.

Unknown length, 2-3 hours, Easy  

Tumpak Sewu is without doubt the finest waterfall in Indonesia. Its name literally translates to "a thousand waterfalls," and when you stand looking down at the ribbons of rushing cascades, tumbling onto the rocks and into the pools below, that feels like no exaggeration.

But that's just the start. From the viewing platform, hike down to the base of the waterfall using the dirt paths and steel walkways that cut across the canyon. There are a number of rickety, handmade wooden ladders to tackle too. Toward the bottom, the path disappears into a waterfall, and you have to climb down while holding onto a rope attached to the rock. Then all of a sudden, you enter a Jurassic world, as the mist from the water fills the air. 

Further down the canyon are even more waterfalls, with clear mountain pools where you can cool off and swim. The hike is circular, and you'll need to make your way back up the way you came.

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Gunung Api Purba, Central Java

Best hike for beginners and families.

2.4km (1.5 miles), 2-3 hours, easy

While Central Java's Gunung Api Purba may not be the longest or toughest hike in Indonesia, what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in breathtaking views. Known locally as Nglanggeran, the hike to the summit of this mystical, ancient volcano floors travelers with its vistas. Towering rocky cliffs, wooden ladders, narrow slot canyons and boulders the size of large houses all need to be traversed in order to reach the peak.

A playful troop of monkeys greet hikers from the beginning, at Nglanggeran village, and the route meanders over mossy stairs and past great hulks of rock until all that gives way to massive plummeting cliffs and sweeping views. There are five rest stops on the way, each worth a roll of film alone, but save your snaps for the summit – it's well worth the wait.

Padar Island, East Nusa Tenggara

Best short hike for epic views .

1.6km (1 mile), 1 hour, easy-moderate

This hike in East  Nusa Tengarra boasts arguably the best views in the country, but vistas this fab rarely come easily. Instead it's a tough 700-stair climb that takes you from the beach to the Padar Island viewpoint, where sweeping panoramas of the surrounding islands await.

Accessible only by boat, a few hours from Labuan Bajo in Flores, this stunning atoll holds the distinction of having three incredible beaches, each with different colored sand – and all visible in one sweep from the 185m (607ft) summit, as are dozens of others. It is possible to visit and complete on a day trip, but most hikers stay and explore the incredible Komodo National Park as well.

Mt Merapi, Central Java

Best active volcano hike.

8km (5 miles), 6-7 hours, moderate-hard

Towering nearly 2900m (some 9500 feet) over the city of Yogyakarta , Mt Merapi is officially the world's most active volcano. Like a number of other Indonesian hikes, the trek to the top is best tackled at night, so you can watch the sunrise from the summit – and avoid the incredible daytime heat. 

From the peak, you can see five other volcanoes, many of which can be climbed as well. Most hikers are content with conquering the crater rim on Mt Merapi – no mean feat – but more experienced climbers can tackle the true summit. It's even possible to camp overnight on the volcano's crater rim.

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Mt Abang, Bali

Best alternative to mt batur.

13.8km (8.6 miles), 5-7 hours, moderate

Despite being Mt Batur's closest neighbor, Bali's Mt Abang remains relatively unknown to foreign hikers, making it an ideal low-key trek. What's more, the climb offers something entirely different to most hikes: Mt Abang isn't actually a volcano, but it's the highest section of the Batur Caldera rim, which means that without any volcanic rock underfoot, its sides are entirely forested, right to the very peak.

Locals will often climb Mt Abang in the late afternoon and camp out on top. There are some great forested camping spots, with amazing views down to Mt Batur and up to the imposing Mt Agung. This moderate hike is best tackled in the dry season, as the forested slopes can provide a muddy and slippery experience in the wet. There are two temples en route to the peak, and both have amazing views across the lake to Mt Batur. Best of all? There are no crowds.

You might also like: The 11 best things to do in Indonesia, including orangutans, otherworldly architecture, and oh-my-word views Essential Bali travel tips: what to know before you go The 12 most beautiful beaches in Bali

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25 Best Hikes In Indonesia: Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls

The best hikes in Indonesia feature smoking volcano craters, giant waterfalls, magnificent jungles, and exotic wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth.

This island nation is home to 400 volcanoes, more than any other country in the world, and most of these are open to tourists for hiking. Even though the most popular Indonesia volcano hike is probably Mount Batur in Bali, there are actually even better volcanoes to climb in places like Java , Maluku, Sulawesi , and Sumatra .

Indonesia has almost 20 percent of the world’s animal species, so there’s also a lot of endemic wildlife you can see here if you go trekking in the jungle, including the gentle orangutans and the beastly Komodo dragons!

I’ll never forget my first trip to Sulawesi, when I realized how many amazing hiking trails are waiting to be discovered in Indonesia if you just go off the beaten path and start exploring new islands.

Now that Indonesia is my second home (and my wife’s actual home!), I plan to keep this guide updated as we find more of the best hikes in Indonesia. If one of your favorite Indonesia hikes is missing from this list, you’re also welcome to recommend it in the comments at the bottom of this travel blog post!

Table of Contents show Best Hikes In Indonesia 1. Mount Bromo (East Java) 2. Kawah Ijen (East Java) 3. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (East Java) 4. Kabut Pelangi Waterfall (East Java) 5. Sikunir Hill (Central Java) 6. Stone Garden Citatah (West Java) 7. Curug Cikanteh Waterfall (West Java) 8. Mount Dukono (North Maluku) 9. Kelimutu Lakes (Flores) 10. Komodo Island (Komodo) 11. Padar Island (Komodo) 12. Bukit Holbung (North Sumatra) 13. Bukit Lawang (North Sumatra) 14. Sipiso Piso Waterfall (North Sumatra) 15. Batu Baginda (Belitung) 16. Balancing Rock (Belitung) 17. Mount Karangetang (Siau) 18. Tangkoko National Park (North Sulawesi) 19. Mount Lokon (North Sulawesi) 20. Rammang Rammang Village (South Sulawesi) 21. Mount Batur (Bali) 22. Mount Agung (Bali) 23. Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali) 24. Kelingking Beach (Bali) 25. Mount Rinjani (Lombok) More Of The Best Hikes In Indonesia When Is The Best Time To Visit?  

Best Hikes In Indonesia

1. mount bromo (east java).

Mount Bromo is an epic Indonesia volcano hike in East Java, with stunning views of an entire cluster of volcanoes, as well as an active crater you can climb for close up views.

The easiest way to visit Bromo is to fly to Malang or Surabaya, and then book a day tour to Bromo from there.

A full day tour is enough time to see all the highlights of the park — the sunrise, jeep ride in the sea of sand, and hike to the volcano crater — and then you can even add the Madakaripura waterfall as a bonus to the itinerary.

Mount Bromo in East Java

No hiking is required to see the classic main viewpoint at Mount Bromo, but if you want to get up close and peek inside of the smoking crater then you need to do a bit of hiking.

The full hike to the top of the Mount Bromo crater (starting from the sea of sand) takes about 1 hour, although you can speed it up if you ride a horse partway.

The last part of the hike has to be done on foot, and it’s a short but steep climb up a concrete stairway to the top of the crater.

Once at the top of the crater, you get to look directly into a smoking volcano, complete with the nasty sulfur smell!

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

Read More: Mount Bromo Sunrise

The smoking Bromo crater is a quintessential Indonesia volcano hike.

2. Kawah Ijen (East Java)

The volcanic crater lake at Kawah Ijen is the world’s biggest acid lake, and it’s also famous for a crazy ‘blue fire’ phenomenon where you can see hot blue flame burning like lava in the dark.

Since Mount Ijen is located at the far east end of Java, it’s pretty easy to visit from Bali and other parts of Indonesia. Most people either visit Mount Ijen on an overnight tour from Bali, or do it as a road trip combined with Mount Bromo and other epic sights in East Java.

The hike to the Kawah Ijen volcano is all dirt and fairly steep, but the path is well defined and safe. You will definitely work up a sweat because of the incline, so for people who don’t do much hiking I’d rate it as moderate.

Kawah Ijen crater lake in East Java. One of the best hikes in Indonesia!

In total, the hike to see the lake takes about 1.5 hours depending on your pace. If you walk quickly I’m sure you could do it in 1 hour, and even slow hikers won’t take more than 2 hours to reach the lake.

A tour guide is not required for the hike, although it can be helpful to have one if you want to see the Kawah Ijen blue fire, which requires a midnight start, a gas mask, and some extra hiking time to go down inside of the crater.

For those of you who plan to skip the blue fire (like we usually do), you don’t need to start at midnight, although I would still recommend you start early and try to reach the Kawah Ijen crater lake for sunrise if you want the best views and pictures.

All in all, Mount Ijen is easily one of the best hikes in Indonesia!

Difficulty: Moderate

Read More: Kawah Ijen Crater

Masked up at the Kawah Ijen crater lake in East Java.

3. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (East Java)

The Tumpak Sewu waterfall in East Java is becoming famous as one of the most amazing waterfalls in Indonesia, or anywhere in Southeast Asia for that matter.

This thing is called a waterfall, but it’s more like a thousand waterfalls put together, which is why the name loosely translated from the local Java language means ‘many waterfalls.’

These falls thunder down into a horseshoe shaped jungle ravine that looks like something right out of Jurassic Park. The end result is an unmissable natural wonder!

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in East Java

After you get done admiring the falls from above, there’s a hiking path to go down and see the waterfall up close.

Head down the path for about 20 minutes to reach the bottom of the ravine. The path is mostly bamboo steps with bamboo railings, and it’s a little sketchy in spots, but nothing too terrible. Just proceed carefully.

Once you reach the bottom of the ravine, you’re only a 5-10 minute walk away from the main event at Tumpak Sewu waterfall. The towering walls on either side of the ravine let you know how tiny you are, and how epic things are about to get!

Read More: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Below the Tumpak Sewu waterfall

4. Kabut Pelangi Waterfall (East Java)

The hills and mountains in Java are full of amazing waterfalls, but one of the best is Kabut Pelangi waterfall in East Java.

This one is not quite as well known as Tumpak Sewu, but it’s at least as spectacular in my opinion, and many people visit it in conjunction with Tumpak Sewu on a day trip from Malang.

The hike to Kabut Pelangi takes about 45 minutes one way, and going back takes a bit longer because it’s a steep hillside. It’s not a very difficult track to the main waterfall, but the path can be hard to see sometimes, especially if you go during or soon after the rainy season.

We went in May and things were a little overgrown in places, and there were several stream crossings that required getting your feet wet. The path should improve as this spot becomes more popular.

In any case, Kabut Pelangi is well worth the trek. If you like waterfalls, then this is definitely one of the best hikes in Indonesia!

Read More: Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

The impressive Kabut Pelangi Waterfall in East Java

5. Sikunir Hill (Central Java)

The Dieng Plateau is a natural wonder tucked in the highlands of central Java, Indonesia, not too far from the city of Yogyakarta.

This former caldera complex has everything from active volcanoes to ancient Hindu temples, smoking sulfuric springs, multicolored lakes, fresh mountain air, sunrise views, and endless terraces covering the hills in every direction.

Dieng means ‘Abode of the Gods,’ and that name seems about right for the incredible scale and mystery of this place!

Dieng Plateau in central Java

One of the main attractions of Dieng Plateau is watching the sunrise over Mount Sundoro, one of Java’s active volcanoes.

The popular spot to do this is on Sikunir Hill, at the eastern edge of the plateau. Your driver can help you find the trailhead, and the path itself is pretty easy to follow.

From the car park, it’s a steep but short hike to the top of the hill, and only takes about 30-45 minutes. Even on a foggy day, the sunrise was beautiful!

Read More: Dieng Plateau

Sikunir sunrise in Java, with the Sundoro volcano in the background.

6. Stone Garden Citatah (West Java)

The Stone Garden Citatah is a popular tourist attraction in West Java where you can see a nice ‘garden’ of limestone rocks and peaks. The park can be reached in about 1 hour of driving from Bandung city.

Sadly this area is being overtaken by chalk mining factories, so it really needs better conservation. The air is even smoky and dark from the chalk factories.

There are a number of short and easy walking paths in the Stone Garden, including a bat cave called Gua Pawon, which has wild monkeys and interesting prehistoric artifacts inside.

Stone Garden Citatah in West Java

If you really want the best views of the whole area then you have to climb Tebing Masigit, the main peak in the park. The path starts near a little shack at the entrance of the rock park.

It’s steep and very overgrown, with weeds slapping you in the face, but you can reach the top in about 30 minutes. At the very end, you’re crawling on exposed limestone karsts, so it’s dangerous.

Proceed at your own risk! This peak is so small only one or two people can sit on it at a time. The views are amazing.

Drone selfie at the top of the Bandung Stone Garden. See me?

7. Curug Cikanteh Waterfall (West Java)

Curug Cikanteh is one of the biggest waterfalls at the Ciletuh Geopark in West Java, and it’s truly a giant.

This is part of a UNESCO-designated geopark loaded with nice waterfalls in Indonesia. It’s reachable by driving a half day from Jakarta, and there are some nice places to stay near the waterfalls.

The geopark takes a bit of effort to reach since it’s a 4-6 hour drive from Jakarta or Bandung, but once you get to there, you can reach this waterfall with 15 minutes of driving and then 15 minutes of hiking.

There’s also a steep mini path to climb to the base of the falls and see them up close, which takes an extra 5-10 minutes of hiking. If you go here in the late afternoon, you can even stand under a big rainbow!

Difficulty: Easy

Drone pic of Cikanteh waterfall in West Java

8. Mount Dukono (North Maluku)

Mount Dukono is a spectacular active volcano on the island of Halmahera, in North Maluku. It’s been erupting non-stop since 1933!

You can visit Dukono with a very long and strenuous day hike, but it’s more popular to spend a couple days camping on the mountain since it’s tough to reach and the views are incredible.

A local guide is essential for navigation and safety at Dukono.

Drone pic of the erupting Dukono volcano in North Maluku. One of the best hikes in Indonesia!

In total, me and my guide spent about 12 hours hiking at Dukono, which was mostly an uphill trudge on rough volcanic terrain and slippery mud paths in the jungle. Along the way, we saw a python, monitor lizard, rare birds, and some giant centipedes.

Of course, we also got to crawl up to the edge of the Dukono crater and look inside while it was blowing out smoke and some red hot molten lava.

For your own safety though, don’t go near the crater if it’s shooting out lava rocks. Dukono occasionally spits out lava rocks, which land like bombs on the slopes of the crater, and a hit from one of these could be fatal.

As you may have guessed, the overall safety of this trek is questionable (to say the least), but there is no doubt it’s one of the best hikes in Indonesia! If you want to be extra safe, you can just view the volcano from a distance and not climb to the top of the crater.

The remote and difficult access to Dukono has made it less popular than Mount Bromo in Java, but on the plus side there are no crowds, so you’ll have the volcano all to yourself!

Difficulty: Hard

Read More: Mount Dukono Volcano Hike

Apocalyptic views at the Dukono volcano

9. Kelimutu Lakes (Flores)

The Kelimutu National Park and its trio of multicolored crater lakes has to be one of the coolest sights on the island of Flores, Indonesia.

These are three volcanic lakes that are known to regularly change colors (to blue, green, pink, or brown!) because of changes in the underlying gases and elements. The Kelimutu lake colors change up to 6 times per year.

Most people visit these lakes by flying to Ende, driving to Kelimutu National Park, and then hiking the remaining 15-30 minutes to the lakes. The path is easy and good for all ages. Voilà, you’ve reached the lakes of Mount Kelimutu!

Read More: Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park is one of the most spectacular sights on Flores island

Up close with the Kelimutu Lakes

10. Komodo Island (Komodo)

The Komodo National Park in Indonesia is famous for being home to the beastly Komodo dragons, the world’s biggest lizard. It’s the only place in the world where you can see these animals.

You’ll go ashore at one of the two main islands where the dragons live in Indonesia (Rinca or Komodo island) and do a short trek looking for dragons while accompanied by a park ranger.

The trekking path is flat and suitable for all fitness levels.

You’re almost guaranteed to see at least a few dragons (after all, it’s Komodo island), and with the guide’s help you can even take pictures with them!

It’s an amazing experience getting to see these animals up close in the wild.

Read More: Komodo National Park

A wild dragon on Komodo island

11. Padar Island (Komodo)

Even though Padar is one of the smallest islands in the Komodo National Park, this scenic viewpoint has become a famous natural landmark of Indonesia, even being featured on the 50,000 Rupiah cash note.

This place looks just like dinosaur country, with rocky hills and giant bays and beaches that stretch out in all directions. The island looks like it has a giant X shape, with three bays where you can see a white beach, black beach, and pink beach.

Each of those sand colors is pretty special in itself, but to see all of them in one place is crazy. This is probably the only place in the world where you can witness that!

The famous Padar Island viewpoint in Komodo National Park

The hike to the top of Padar Island is easily one of the best hikes in Indonesia, and it only takes about 20-40 minutes depending on your pace.

There’s a cobblestone path all the way to the top now, but it’s still a pretty steep and exhausting climb. Along the way, there are some viewpoints where you can stop to rest as you work your way to the top for the best view.

A tour of the Komodo islands wouldn’t be complete without doing this trek! You can visit Padar Island on a day tour, or you can spend a few days on a liveaboard boat seeing lots of islands.

The north side of Padar Island even has a pink beach with unique reddish sand that’s become another famous sight for tours in the Komodo National Park.

Read More: Padar Island Hike

The hiking path at Padar

12. Bukit Holbung (North Sumatra)

Bukit Holbung is a beautiful grassy green hill in North Sumatra where you can get panoramic views of Lake Toba from above.

A little known fact about Indonesia is that Toba is actually the biggest volcanic lake in the world, and Bukit Holbung has to be one of the best viewpoints along the outer edge of the lake!

The road to Bukit Holbung is very rough, so it’s not motorbike friendly. Better to come in a car. There’s a small entrance fee and then you’re free to roam.

Even a short 15 minute walk at Holbung gives you wonderful views without too much work, or if you’re a fit hiker you can reach the top of the hill in about 1 hour.

I love this hike. The scenery is like something from a fantasy movie — perfect green hills in all directions!

The bright green hills of Bukit Holbung

Is this Switzerland or Indonesia?!

13. Bukit Lawang (North Sumatra)

The sleepy little village of Bukit Lawang sits on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, a big rainforest where you can go trekking and see all kinds of wonderful animals.

In two treks at Bukit Lawang we saw orangutans, gibbons, thomas leaf monkeys, long tailed macaques, monitor lizards, giant ants, a spectacular banyan tree, and other jungle sights.

Bukit Lawang is a great place to see orangutans in the wild, and even though you need to hire a local guide, it’s still pretty budget friendly.

If you want to see wildlife, a trek at Bukit Lawang is hands down one of the best hikes in Indonesia.

Drone pic of Gunung Leuser National Park

The jungle trekking difficulty at Bukit Lawang is not too bad, but it’s harder than I expected. This isn’t like Tangkoko National Park where you can walk on flat ground all the way and burn minimal calories while enjoying the wildlife.

There are some steep hill sections at Lawang where your legs will get a big workout, and the ground can be muddy and nasty sometimes with thorns and leeches. The daytime humidity can also be crazy.

Don’t let this scare you away! It all adds to the experience. If you don’t think your fitness level is there, I’d recommend doing the 1 day trek instead of 2 days. You’ll still most likely see orangutans!

Read More: Bukit Lawang Trekking

You can see orangutans while trekking at Bukit Lawang

14. Sipiso Piso Waterfall (North Sumatra)

The Sipiso Piso waterfall is a 120 meter (400 foot) giant that flows into the famous Lake Toba in North Sumatra, surrounded by farms and highland scenery.

It definitely belongs on any road trip itinerary for Lake Toba or Sumatra, and you can even visit it on a day trip from Medan city.

You get nice panoramic views from the parking lot, but the hike down to the bottom of the falls is also worthwhile if you have time.

Drone view of Sipiso Piso Waterfall

Hiking to Sipiso Piso waterfall only takes about 30-40 minutes each way, and you can get some even better pictures at the bottom. The path is pretty worn, but still mostly paved.

There are a bunch of scenic viewpoints along the way to Sipiso, but the most amazing thing is to see the waterfall up close.

You can walk directly to the edge of the falls, where there’s a huge amount of wind and spray!

Read More: Sipiso Piso Waterfall Hike

Sipiso Piso Waterfall in North Sumatra

15. Batu Baginda (Belitung)

The Batu Baginda hike may be one of the shortest trails I’ve done in Sumatra, but it’s still one of the best hikes in Indonesia.

The views are so extraordinary. This hike on Belitung island takes you to the top of an incredibly massive granite boulder overlooking the jungle.

The views from the top are nice, but if you have a drone that’s even better, because you can take some aerial selfies to see how tiny you look on top of the boulders!

Drone selfie atop Batu Baginda

The hike to the top of the Baginda rock is short, but steep. If you keep a good pace, it only takes about 15 minutes or so.

Once you reach the rock, there’s a ladder and rope to climb. It looks scary at first, but it’s actually not hard to manage.

At the top, there’s a nice breeze and you have views of the mountains to the north, the Java Sea to the south, lots of jungles and palm oil plantations below, and another giant rock in the distance!

Read More: Batu Baginda Hike

The giant granite boulders of Batu Baginda in Belitung

16. Balancing Rock (Belitung)

This is another short and easy hike in Belitung island where you can see some giant granite boulders.

The balancing rock is not too far from Belitung’s popular Tanjung Tinggi Beach, so it’s easy to combine with other sights on the island.

From the road, it’s just a short 10 minute hike to reach the rock, and at the top you get nice views of the surrounding countryside too.

This boulder is massive, and great for pictures from pretty much any angle!

Read More: Belitung Island

The balancing rock is one of the most peculiar sights in Belitung Island

Another angle of the Belitung balancing rock. Balinese woman power.

17. Mount Karangetang (Siau)

Gunung Karangetang is a beautiful Jurassic Park-looking volcano that dominates the island of Siau in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

You can’t go anywhere on tiny Siau island without seeing this majestic volcano and its twin smoking craters. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see it spouting molten lava and rock bombs at night, which it does pretty often.

Karangetang is a highly active volcano — probably one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The local guides are knowledgeable and any seismic activity is monitored by the Indonesian government, but there is still plenty of risk involved in climbing this mountain.

Smoking twin craters on Mount Karangetang in Siau island

You can climb to the top of Karangetang if you’re feeling extra crazy, but to be safe most people only hike partway up the mountain and peep at the smoking craters from a distance (and even that’s a bit risky).

Climbing any volcano in Indonesia carries some danger obviously, but this one is unusually active, so proceed at your own risk.

Climbing the volcano

When I hiked Karangetang in 2021, no one had done the climb recently because of the lack of tourists during the pandemic, so the jungle was extremely overgrown and the guides had to hack through it with machetes.

We started our hike in the early morning and it took about 2.5 hours going up. For safety reasons we didn’t go to the top of the summit, but instead stopped at a vantage point below it where I could fly my drone up and look at the summit safely.

The sunrise on Karangetang was amazing, and so were the drone pictures! It was one of my favorite experiences in Sulawesi, and that’s why I rate it as one of the best hikes in Indonesia.

Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

Read More: Siau Island

Smoking twin craters at Gunung Karangetang

18. Tangkoko National Park (North Sulawesi)

The Tangkoko National Park is a big nature reserve on the northeast tip of Sulawesi island in Indonesia, not too far from Manado city.

This park covers more than 8,700 hectares (21,000 acres) of fantastic jungle, and there are hundreds of unique animal species living in the area. It’s a great place for jungle trekking in Indonesia.

The best part about the Tangkoko Nature Reserve is that it’s super easy to visit on a budget, and wildlife sightings are practically guaranteed. This park is a 1 hour drive from Manado.

Tangkoko National Park in North Sulawesi

The only way to explore Tangkoko park is on a guided walking tour that lasts about 4 hours. Hiring a guide is required for this, but any hotel or lodge at Tangkoko can easily arrange a guide for you.

The jungle walk is pretty straightforward and not strenuous at all. It follows a flat path through the jungle that is mostly paved at first, and then at times cuts through the trees on a dirt path.

I spent two days exploring the park, and in total I saw at least 50 black Sulawesi macaques, rare birds (kingfishers, owls, and hornbills), lizards, snakes, cicadas, tarsiers, and more!

Read More: Tangkoko National Park

You can see monkeys and lots of other wildlife while trekking at Tangkoko National Park

19. Mount Lokon (North Sulawesi)

Mount Lokon is an active volcano crater in Tomohon, about 1 hour of driving from the main city of Manado in North Sulawesi.

You can reach the crater at the top of the mountain after about 60-90 minutes of uphill hiking, so it’s not too difficult, although a guide can still be helpful for navigation.

For most of the hike, you’ll be walking through an old lava flow that looks pretty neat but can be slick when it’s wet. We’ve gotten rained on every time we’ve climbed Lokon.

Overall, it’s a great hike to do in North Sulawesi, and it’s one of the easier volcano hikes in Indonesia!

Mount Lokon as seen from a hill near Tomohon in North Sulawesi

The Lokon crater

20. Rammang Rammang Village (South Sulawesi)

Rammang Rammang Maros is a special village in the karst mountains of South Sulawesi, Indonesia.

The scenery at this place is really mind blowing. Watch out for dinosaurs. You never know what you might see here.

This is one of the biggest karst areas in the world, right behind the Tsingy area in Madagascar and Shilin in China.

Rammang Rammang Maros in South Sulawesi

The best way to explore Rammang is on foot and by traditional boat. There are walking paths that you can use to reach all of the main objects of interest, and the trails are pretty flat. The only challenge is the midday heat, which can be pretty intense.

You can see many of the highlights of the Rammang area in one full day trip from Makassar city, but if you want to see everything you’ll need a couple days.

It’s a spectacular area where you can see karst mountains, prehistoric cave art, a green lake, and a sparkling limestone cave. This village trek is one of the best hikes in Indonesia.

Read More: Rammang Rammang

Leang Surukang cave — one of many caves you can see while trekking at Rammang Rammang

21. Mount Batur (Bali)

Mount Batur in Bali is probably the most popular hike in Indonesia, at least for international tourists. The views honestly aren’t near as amazing as some of the other volcano hikes in Indonesia, but it’s still a very nice trek.

One of the great things about the Batur volcano hike is that it’s not very hard and you don’t need to be super fit to do it. The entire hike takes about 2 to 4 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace.

At the top of the volcano, you can see lots of cheeky monkeys and even cook eggs for breakfast by using heat vents from the active volcano.

Drone picture of Mount Batur in Bali

Lots of tour packages for Mount Batur are available that include hotel pickup and dropoff, plus a guide for the trip.

The locals in Kintamani actually force you to hire a guide for this hike, even though it’s not really necessary at all. There are ways you can do it without a guide if you’re feeling sneaky and know the right route.

Sunrise trekking is especially popular at Batur because you can catch amazing views of the sunrise from the top of the mountain, usually in a sea of orange clouds.

All in all, Batur is a great introduction to volcano hiking before you start doing some of the bigger volcanoes of Indonesia!

Read More: Mount Batur Hike

Even monkeys love the view at Mount Batur !

22. Mount Agung (Bali)

Mount Agung is the biggest and baddest volcano on the island of Bali, Indonesia, and the hike to the top is no joke.

This mountain is the highest point in Bali, and at 3,142 meters it’s also one of the top 100 prominent peaks on Earth. No matter where you start, this is a very strenuous hike with at least 1,500 meters of elevation gain. Your legs will be jello.

At the top, you get to stand on the edge of the crater rim and look straight down into a huge smoking 900-meter-wide active volcano crater.

Drone view of the Mount Agung volcano in Bali

Sunrise tours at Agung start with a very early pickup (maybe 11 PM-ish) so your guide can drive you to the trailhead for a hike to the top of the volcano in time for sunrise.

This means you’ll be operating on very light sleep (if any at all), compounding the difficulty of the whole trek. Ever tried staying up all night while hiking for 8-12 hours on an extremely steep, rocky volcano in the dark? Chances are, probably not.

The last part of the hike involves scrambling up on all fours. This is the hardest part, and some spots are steep enough to be dangerous if you’re not careful, especially since you’re hiking in the dark. A good headlight and guide are essential here.

I’ll never forget the first time I climbed Agung: I was clinging to the side of a steep volcano alone in the dark, half asleep and beat to pieces, when the sky turned orange and I realized I was high above the clouds. It was a really special moment.

This is definitely my favorite hike in Bali, and it’s also one of the best hikes in Indonesia.

Read More: Mount Agung Hike

Looking into the crater of the Mount Agung volcano. What a hike.

23. Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali)

Sekumpul waterfall is a big twin waterfall in north Bali, with two 80 meter tall (260 foot) streams pouring out of the jungle treetops.

If you’re looking for the biggest and best waterfall in Bali, this is probably it! To top it off, you get to see some of the most scenic jungles and rice terraces on the island as you hike to the falls.

The locals in this village will try to make you hire an expensive guide to go see the falls, but it’s not necessary at all unless you just want someone to take pictures for you (they’re happy to do that if so).

Sekumpul Waterfall in Bali

I wrote a dedicated blog post for Sekumpul waterfall that explains how to do the hike without hiring a local guide.

The hike to Sekumpul waterfall is pretty straightforward, although the steep path up and down is a big workout. It takes about 30-60 minutes to get there, depending on where you start.

Before you even start the hike, you’ll be taking dozens of pictures. The views in north Bali are incredible — steep green mountains and rice terraces in all directions!

There are no less than 7 waterfalls to see in the Sekumpul area, so it’s one of the best hikes in Indonesia if you like waterfalls!

Read More: Sekumpul Waterfall Hike

Up close with the Sekumpul falls

24. Kelingking Beach (Bali)

The Kelingking Cliff in Nusa Penida island is easily one of the most famous views anywhere in Bali. If you’re staying in Bali, you should definitely go see it!

It’s possible to visit Kelingking on a day trip from Bali, or you can spend several days seeing all of the other amazing sights in Nusa Penida island , which is located near Bali.

After you’re done staring in awe at the Kelingking Cliff, there’s also a sketchy path with stairs to hike down to the pristine white sand beach at the bottom.

The Kelingking beach hike is a major workout and takes at least 2 hours roundtrip. The stairs are very steep and the drop-offs are a legit safety risk if you aren’t careful. Be safe and have fun!

Read More: Kelingking Beach Hike

The famous Kelingking Cliff in Nusa Penida , Bali

25. Mount Rinjani (Lombok)

Of course I can’t make a list of the best hikes in Indonesia without mentioning Mount Rinjani in Lombok!

This is an epic Indonesia volcano hike with a bunch of different trekking routes. There’s lots of elevation gain and it’s a very strenuous hike, no matter how you slice it.

A local guide is required, and they can also help carry your gear up the mountain for you. Trekking packages can be as short as 2 days, or as long as 5 days. The sweet spot is probably a 3 day trek, which allows you to see and do plenty.

On this trek, you usually get to climb to the summit of the Rinjani volcano, and then camp at the quiet lake inside of the crater!

Book Now: Mount Rinjani 2-Day Trek

More Of The Best Hikes In Indonesia

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this list of some of the best hikes in Indonesia!

I’ve barely scratched the surface here, and the list is always growing as we experience more of the volcanoes, waterfalls, jungles, and other hikes in this amazing country.

In the meantime, don’t forget to check out my complete Indonesia Travel Guide for more tips, photos, and blog updates about Indonesia!  

When Is The Best Time To Visit?

The best time to visit Indonesia depends on what you’re looking for:

☁ Rainy season runs from November to April. The weather during the day can be hot and humid, at 32 to 35 °C (90 to 95 °F), but it’s less crowded during this time, and the rain is mostly at night. Waterfalls come alive, and the landscapes are bright green.

☀ Dry season runs from May to August. The temperatures are milder and cooler, and it’s more breezy and sunny. This is the nicest weather, and it’s perfect for an Indonesia volcano hike or island hopping. It’s also the high season, so it’s generally more crowded with tourists.

Happy travels! Regardless of when you decide to visit Wonderful Indonesia, you’re sure to see some spectacular sights.  

• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Best Things To Do In Indonesia – What To Do In The Islands
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide – Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Indonesia Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Photos

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Hi 🙂, I really like your articles very informative for travel enthusiasts like me, thanks and keep sharing such articles.

This is exactly what I was looking for thanks!

Great! Welcome!

I just came back from climbing Gunung Latimojong in Sulawesi. It is lower than Rinjani at 3478m asl. We climbed from Desa Angin Angin and came down via Desa Karangan. The views were stunning especially when traversing the mountain ridge. You have to be fairly fit to undertake this trek.

Thanks for sharing! I bet that was a great hike.

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Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Indonesia

Take a hiking and trekking adventure through Indonesia (not far from Borneo and Malaysia ) and discover an exotic nation made up from thousands of volcanic islands, jungles and encompassing a multitude of cultures. Indonesia is the ultimate backpacking adventure!

19 Hiking & Trekking tour packages in Indonesia with 42 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Explore Paradise: 7-Day Bali Tour Discover Nusa Penida, Mt. Batur, Temple And Waterfall

• Mountain Hikes
• In-depth Cultural

Sumatra Adventure

Starting with the hike in the Leuser National Park was a good idea. It was a bit tough due to the start of the rain season which made the climb a bit slippery. The guides were fantastic and the explanation thorough. The mountain area of Berastagi was beautiful and the crater climb interesting. Soaking in the natural baths after the climb was just tops. Ending the tour on Samosir island was so relaxing. I enjoyed this tour and highly recommend it.

Bali, Rinjani Climb & Gili Islands

Volcano Adventure: A Trek to Mount Ijen & Mount Bromo (Private & All-inclusive)

Komodo & Flores Adventure

There is a lot of travelling between destinations in the mini-van but trust me, it is worth it to see or experience the things that other travellers will simply never ever get a chance to see.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking

Explore Bali and Komodo Island

3D2N Sailing Komodo Flores, Indonesia

I booked this tour in advance of my trip to Indonesia and, quite frankly, got scammed. Most people on the tour booked while they were in Indonesia and paid a third of what I paid. Also, when I arrived on the boat they had over sold the space in the “shared room” so I was given a chair cushion on the floor to sleep on- unacceptable (tour radar was very responsive in getting me a partial refund). Do not book this tour until the company has upgraded their boat. With all that being said, the Komodo Islands are beautiful and well worth a visit and the itinerary of this tour was great. Also, the food was amazing. Everything but the accommodation, but those are a deal breaker.

Bali 10 Days : Hidden Hills, Waterfalls, Temple and Rice Terrace Tour

Sunrises & Summits in Bali

• Local Living

Tree House Tribes & Baliem Valley

• Intl. Flights Included

Treasures of the Archipelago

• Flights included

Between Sentani Lake, Highland Hiking, Birds of Paradise and the Unique Dani Pig Festival

• Walking Adventure
• Jungle Trekking

Walk Indonesia - Java and Bali

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Private Tour & Black Lava Adventure

What people love about hiking & trekking tours in indonesia.

The tour was very interesting and instructiv. The guide was great.

Really good experience !!! Not everything was perfect and some things should be improve .... Definitely bit too expensive. I paid about £280 while my friend ( we were both at the same boat) paid 150 euros (less than £150). How come??? She booked it online 2 months after me. Same boat, same trip, different price... Overall: highly recommended but should cost no more than £170. Lovely views, the amazing sunrise at Padar island, crystal clear water and Komodo dragon...!!!! :))))

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The Best Hikes in Indonesia

The sun emerging through the morning mist, a blazing blue fire, and exotic orangutans – these are just some of the amazing things that await you on the best hikes in Indonesia.

One of the best ways to enjoy Indonesia’s diverse landscapes is from an elevated height. The most beautiful, sweeping views of picturesque hills and bays are granted to those dedicated enough and don’t mind getting their hiking boots dirty. Sometimes, the hike brings you to the top of Indonesia’s exquisite and moody volcanoes, other times it lands you in the heart of a charming traditional village. Here is Culture Trip’s selection of the 10 best hikes in Indonesia.

1. Mount Kelimutu

Natural Feature

This volcano is best known for the tri-coloured lakes perched on top of it, collectively named Kelimutu Lake. Located at a height of 1,639m (5,377ft), these mystical, colour-changing lakes boast a sweeping mountaintop vista. They also display their own enchanting hues, which have turned from calming turquoise to pitch black over the years. The hiking trail to Mount Kelimutu’s peak is a convenient stairway, although it’s still a bit demanding due to the elevation. The gate opens at 4.30am, the best time to start hiking in order to catch the gleaming sunrise.

2. Mount Rinjani

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4. Mount Batur

5. Mount Ijen

Padar is part of the expansive Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara. But in contrast to its famed sister island, this uninhabited islet appears completely quiet and serene, with nothing but stretches of beautiful, hilly landscape. A big part of this island is still uncharted territory, but a certain viewpoint embracing three magnificent bays in one scene has quickly become a coveted panorama, bringing more people to this island for the ‘gram.

7. Wae Rebo

This village in East Nusa Tenggara is famed for its iconic traditional houses set against a picturesque mountain view and shrouding mist. Aside from its fascinating local culture, Wae Rebo has a peaceful and secluded location, nestled in a valley between mountains. To reach this magnificent destination, brace yourself for a four-hour hike through varying but relatively well-established trails. Travellers typically spend a day or two in one of the Mbaru Niang houses with the locals before heading back armed with new stories and experiences that enrich the mind.

8. Gunung Semeru

9. Bukit Lawang

Forest, Natural Feature

Part of the Taman Leuser National Park, many travellers tread the lush jungle of Bukit Lawang in hopes of spotting the adorable orangutan. Regardless, when you’re deep in a pristine rainforest, the journey is a remarkable experience in itself. The hike will take you through the hills, rivers and waterfalls, and every once in a while you’ll inevitably cross paths with exotic birds, primates and more denizens of the jungle. A trek through this area can be tailored according to your preferences, but two days are usually enough to make the most of it.

10. Baliem Valley

Located in far-flung Papua, the trip to Baliem Valley is demanding in terms of time, energy and money. But your dedication will be very well rewarded with spectacular scenes unseen by many and encounters with extraordinary tribes, each with its own fascinating culture. A guide will take you wandering through the ruggedly beautiful valley to see a whole other side of Indonesia, where people live in their own authentic, peculiar ways, untouched by modern civilisation. You’ll see them living, dancing, and sporting their own unique attire. A typical journey through Baliem Valley can take anywhere from six to eight days, depending on the route taken, and usually involves getting from village to village separated by dense jungle, hills or rivers.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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7 Best mountain hikes in Indonesia with the most stunning views

• 8 minute read

• September 5, 2020

Table of Contents

Ijen crater, east java, mount bromo, east java, mount batur, bali, mount rinjani, lombok, mount kelimutu, flores, mount prau, central java, mount ireng, yogyakarta.

Looking to climb some of the most stunning mountains in Southeast Asia? There’s no place like Indonesia to get your fix. With volcanic landscapes and forested hills aplenty, the country and its many islands provide the ultimate destination to fulfill your hiking desires. Fit enough for a challenging nighttime climb? The journey to see the hypnotic blue flames covering Mount Ijen could be what you’re looking for. In Yogyakarta and looking for an easy way to get your fill of misty hills, rolling clouds, and a spectacular sunrise view? Mount Ireng offers hardly a challenge and is perfect for beginners looking to supply their Instagram with snapshots of the famous hut at the summit! Keep reading — we’ve selected 7 different mountain hikes in Indonesia of varying difficulties that you can choose from!

While many parks in Indonesia are open and the hikes listed here are popular with tourists, it is also important to note that many mountains across the country are active volcanoes. Always monitor volcanic activity in the area via notices published by local volcano observatories and the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) before you embark on your journey.

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The Ijen Crater is famous for its mesmerizing blue flame phenomenon, turquoise-hued volcanic lake, and breathtaking sunrise views. The hike is demanding for anyone looking to witness the unique blue flames that lick across the mountain’s sulphuric surface. Why? Two reasons. First, you need to do this hike at night by torchlight, which makes the rocky trail a little harder to navigate. Second, you’ll need to rent or bring your own protective gas mask as the terrain you tackle spews forth unpredictable plumes of sulfur smoke. Of course, believe us when we say the geothermal inferno of electric-blue flames makes for a very surreal and eye-popping reward, worth the effort if you’re a thrill-seeker! And, as a bonus, the view of the lake at the summit of your climb is also an otherworldly experience to enjoy.

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For a more straightforward excursion that doesn’t involve navigating the volcano’s trail in the middle of the night, you can skip the flames and arrive at base camp bright and early at 7 am, set off on a more leisurely hike to the crater rim, and catch the gorgeous view of the impressive blue-green lake of Ijen Crater.

How to get to Ijen Crater:

From Bali: Travel to the ferry terminal at Gilimanuk. From there, catch the 90-minute ferry ride across to East Java. From Ketapang ferry port, it is a two-hour drive to the base camp.

From Java: The closest airport is Surabaya Juanda International Airport, from which you can catch a bus to Bondowoso — crossing 180 kilometers — before chartering a four-wheel-drive vehicle up the steep road to Paltuding base camp.

Hike distance: About 7 kilometers

Hike duration: 3–4 hours

Total elevation gain : About 630 meters

Tip: The blue flames are bigger and more prominent during the dry season, so it is best to do this hike between July and September.

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One of Java’s most iconic peaks, Mount Bromo offers sweeping views of the surrounding Tengger massif, which encompass a complex series of active volcanoes that stretch across the terrain. Mount Bromo’s status as one of Indonesia’s more active volcanoes doesn’t deter visitors from making a visit — it remains one of the country’s most frequently-hiked mountains due to how easy it is to get to the top. In fact, reaching Bromo’s summit can be almost effortless if you choose to rent a jeep to arrive at the dusty valley floor, then make the 30-minute trek to the smoking crater. You can shorten the hike further by arranging a horseback ride across the sandy slope towards the crater. For this reason, Mount Bromo makes for a great beginner-level adventure with very little energy involved. Just remember this is a popular hiking area, so avoid peak season and go when the crowds are thinner!

How to get to Mount Bromo:

The closest airport is Surabaya Juanda International Airport. It is a 90-minute drive south from Surabaya to Mount Bromo

Hike distance: 1.5 kilometers from the jeep drop-off

Hike duration: 20–30 minutes

Total elevation gain : About 490 meters

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Looking for the best sunrise views in Bali? Mount Batur , located north of the island, is your ultimate destination. If you’re up for the two-hour dawn hike, this is an incredibly picturesque spot to watch the sun wash the lush Bali landscape in a beautiful golden glow. From up here, you’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views of verdant forest-covered hills stretching out in front of you, shrouded in a glorious layer of mist if you’re lucky! Make your trek early to account for the two-hour climb, so you can reach the top before the sunrise to catch the perfect moment the sun peeks over the horizon. It gets incredibly crowded during peak season, so we recommend signing up for an overnight camping tour to beat the rush and be first in line to the summit!

Do note that Bali has a heavy monsoon season, which may make dampen your hike — it’s best to attempt this hike between April and October during the dry season.

How to get to Mount Batur:

Mount Batur is a two-hour drive from Kuta under light traffic conditions. The quickest way to reach Mount Batur is by catching a bus from Ubud to Kintamani, a village close to the edge of the caldera wall of Mount Batur.

Hike distance: Approximately 7 kilometers

Hike duration: 2–3 hours

Total elevation gain: 700 meters

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The island of Lombok is home to the second-tallest volcano in Indonesia: Mount Rinjani . At an exhilarating 3,726 meters tall, this grand mountain boasts a caldera 50 square kilometers wide with a scenic crescent-shaped Segara Anak lake sitting pretty inside the crater. Considered one of the greatest mountain hikes in Indonesia, it boasts incredible views and a long climb that is equal parts challenging and beautiful. There are multiple trails that take you to the crater rim — opting for a multi-day hike will offer the best experience that includes village visits and cooling waterfalls along the way. Not up for several days of exploration? A more direct route will get you to the crater rim after about six to seven hours of hiking. Be prepared for sandy terrain, which may make the steep incline difficult.

How to get to Mount Rinjani:

The nearest airport is Lombok International Airport. From there, it is a three-hour drive north to the base of Mount Rinjani via Mataram.

Hike distance: 20-kilometer return hike to crater rim and back

Hike duration: 6–7 hours

Total elevation gain: About 2,000 meters from Senaru to the crater rim

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The island of Flores is where you will find Kelimutu National Park . Many travel to this park to see the famous tri-colored volcanic lakes, the waters of which change color depending on the season and the time of day. The hike up to the viewpoint to catch the magnificent view of the trio of lakes and its palette of green, blue, and red isn’t a tough one, with its variety of easy and intermediate hiking trails making it highly accessible. Hiking enthusiasts can start their journey from the village of Moni (the nearest of homestays and lodges are about 6 kilometers from the Kelimutu viewpoint), starting in the early hours of the morning and culminating in the sunrise view at the mountain. Be aware that a large population of monkeys live on Kelimutu, so hang onto your bags and keep those snacks out of view!

How to get to Mount Kelimutu:

Kelimutu National Park is located in the eastern part of Flores. Fly into Ende, the closest city. From Ende, it is a two-hour drive to get to Moni. You can either do the hike from Moni, or drive a little further (around 20 minutes) to the park entrance.

Hike distance: ~6 kilometers from Moni

Hike duration: About 3 hours

Total elevation gain: About 600 meters

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mufti Muhammad Sri Kuncoro (@muftimuhammad_)

Mount Prau has become an incredibly popular hiking destination for tourists in recent years, attributed to its easy hiking trails and rewarding views. In fact, it is one of Central Java’s most iconic attractions due to its geological and historical sites. Here, you’ll find colorful lakes, bubbling craters, and some of the oldest Hindu temples in the region. The mountain stands proudly at 2,565 meters, and its highest peak is the Dieng Plateau. There are three main base camps at Dieng village, which we recommend for ascent due to its easy proximity to homestays and hotels. The easiest hike that most visitors attempt is to the top of Gunung Sikunir, an easy trek that takes only 30 minutes. But for an even more magnificent view, head up to Mount Prau’s Dieng Plateau at dawn to witness a glorious sunrise.

How to get to Mount Prau:

There are frequent buses that depart from Yogyakarta in the south that arrive in Wonosobo via Magelang. From Wonosobo, another bus will be able to take you straight to Dieng village. The entire trip will take you around 5 hours.

Hike distance: 7–8 kilometers

Hike duration: Approximately 2.5 hours

Total elevation gain: About 670 meters

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dhimas Adi Satria (@dhimas.satriaa)

The cloudscapes and rolling fog in the early mornings up on Mount Ireng are nothing short of breathtaking, but there’s an even bigger draw to this picturesque Yogyakarta marvel. It’s the rustic wooden hut perched on the edge of a cliff, overlooking miles of scenic forested hills and a scattering of local farms and villages. Shutterbugs and Instagrammers make the hike to this cute, photogenic little hut to await sunrise in an attempt to capture the golden hues alongside the silhouette of the charming structure. As a bonus, it isn’t a long or difficult trek to get to the viewpoint!

How to get to Gunung Ireng:

From Yogyakarta, drive east. Gunung Ireng is approximately 50 minutes from the city center — about 25 kilometers away.

Hike distance: Negligible from the Gunung Ireng car park to the viewpoint

Hike duration: 5 minutes from the car park to the viewpoint; less than an hour if exploring the surrounding areas

Total elevation gain: Mostly flat

We hope our list of scenic mountain hikes in Indonesia will inspire you to put some of them on your bucket list!

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Post written by: Angela Goh

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2024 backpacking indonesia itinerary: a ridiculously in-depth guide.

Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, and of my favourite spots in all of Asia.

It’s full of thousands of islands, probably too many to explore in one lifetime, but that means you’ll never get bored.

We’ve spent a total of 10 weeks in beautiful Indonesia and there is so much to see and do.

If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, then keep reading our backpacking Indonesia travel guide for absolutely everything you need to know about visiting this awesome country. 

Quick Things To Learn About Indonesia...

• Safety - Generally Indonesia is quite safe. There have been terrorist attacks over the years, but you need to follow normal precautions. Try not to gather in large public gatherings, don’t flash the cash, don’t get drunk alone, don’t walk at night on your own, etc. We have never experienced any sort of safety issues when we have visited Indonesia. People are generally very welcoming and friendly.
• Travel vaccines - Before backpacking Indonesia, it’s important to ensure your vaccines are up to date. Recommended injections include: Typhoid, Hep A & B, Tetanus, and Rabies. For up to date information, check with your nation's health bureau.
• Sim Cards - There are a few sim card companies in Indonesia. We used XL Axiata which worked well. But you can typically order a sim card online now for convenience with Klook.
• ATMs - Access to ATMs all across Indonesia is quite widespread. You shouldn’t have issues. If you are going somewhere remote, stock up on cash at the nearest town beforehand. As of 2020, there are no bank fees when using Monzo, Starling or Revolut.
• Tipping - It’s always nice to tip! Tipping of 10% is the norm in Indonesia, but if you feel the service has been great then feel free to do more
• Currency - In Indonesia they use Indonesian Rupee (IDR). You can get it before you visit or when you land from the ATM.
• Partying - Indonesia as a whole is a muslim country, so drinking isn’t an integrated part of the culture. However touristy areas do drink, especially on the islands of Bali, Gili islands and parts of Lombok. The main party hub is Bali, but alcohol is heavily taxed, so not as cheap as other Asian countries.
• Malaria Risk - The risk of Malaria in Indonesia depends on where you are visiting. So in Bali, the risk is quite low. However, all rural areas in Nusa Tenggara Barat, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Eastern Indonesia, and parts of Java, all have a risk. You should take anti-malarials if you’re travelling outside of Bali, and use mosquito sprays to prevent getting bitten.
• Religion - The main religion of Indonesia is Muslim. However the island of Bali is an exception as it’s main religion is Hinduism. As a predominately Muslim country, respect Ramadan, times of pray and other cultural days.
• Language - The official language in Indonesia is Indonesian, but in more touristy places such as Bali, or the Gili islands, you’ll often find people speak English.
• Power Sockets - There are 2 main varieties: type C and type F. Standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. You can pick up a universal travel adapter for convenience.

Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing. ‍

Here's a few reasons ...

• They Cover for Covid-19
• You can pause and restart policies each month
• They are more affordable than many providers

For more info, check out my in-depth SafetyWing review .

Best places to visit in Indonesia

If you’re planning on organizing a vacation to Indonesia, you’ve probably realized there is A LOT of islands to visit and discover. Unfortunately you can’t simply do them all in one go. So below I take you through all the best places to visit in Indonesia that Brad and I have visited, and I’ll mention one or two that were on our list, but we had to cut short due to an accident.

All in all, Indonesia is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world , so get ready to be inspired! 

Let’s start with the most obvious one. Bali is a great island and it’s very unique in comparison to the rest of Indonesia. Bali is very very westernized, which means for me, it’s not “true” Indonesia. But the island has a lot to offer. Amazing surf, beautiful views, volcanoes to climb, waterfalls to discover and cheap food and accommodation. It’s no wonder backpackers love to visit Bali. 

But what I would like to stress in this backpacking Indonesia guide, is that there is so much more to Indonesia than just Bali. So if you’ve visited Bali before, try a different location and you’ll see just how diverse Indonesia is!

Nusa Penida

So, Nusa Penida actually “belongs' ' to Bali, but it’s nowhere near as westernized which means it has a lot of charm. Penida is stunning and offers beautiful blue waters, gorgeous beaches, the chances to swim with manta rays, stunning waterfalls and unique treehouses to sleep in all over the island. Without doubt, one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.

Bandung is located in west Java and it’s one of my favourite places in Indonesia because it’s so undiscovered. It’s a popular spot among Indonesians, but not for the western traveler. That’s why you should visit! Bandung is home to one of the most accessible volcanoes (you can drive right up), amazing tea fields, (that reminded me of Sri Lanka) and the coolest floating market (better than the ones in Bangkok, in my humble opinion). 

Read : Top Things To Do In Bandung, Indonesia 

Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and it’s typically used as a base to fly in and out off. But Jakarta is buzzing with culture, and honestly, it’s a shoppers dream. It’s got some amazing shopping malls and if you want to splash the cash, this is the place to do it. Typically I’m not a fan of Asian capital cities, they tend to be overcrowded and the air pollution is always high, but I liked Jakarta.

Malang is another awesome place to go when backpacking Indonesia. It’s most famous for “Rainbow village” which is truly awesome. But venture outside on a moped and you’ll come across the most amazing waterfalls. Oh, it’s also the perfect spot to start your Mount Bromo tour which is the best volcano sunrise I’ve ever done. 

Read : Top Things to do in Malang, Indonesia 

Yogyakarta is located in East Java and it’s probably the most “backpacker” place in Java. It’s brimming with beautiful sights to discover including two iconic temples, Pranamanan temple and Borobudur temple. 

Read : Top things to do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia 

Gili islands 

The Gili islands are located just off of the island of Lombok. There are 3 main “popular” Gili islands which are Gili Trawagan (the biggest), Gili Air (the smallest) and Gili Memo. These islands are small little paradises with beautiful blue waters and amazing snorkelling opportunities. If you want a mini beach holiday where you can relax, and spend lots of time in the water, then a trip to the Gili islands should be on your Indonesian travel itinerary. 

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is located just off Bali and it’s easily accessible via boat. Again it’s an up and coming island and it’s got amazing snorkeling. Bali island itself doesn’t have the best snorkel, but head of to Lembongan and you’ll be greeted with lots of fishing and beautiful blue, clear waters. 

I just want to mention a few places we had our own list but had to cancel due to the fact we had a moped accident when in Nusa Penida. These include: 

• Lombok: it’s famous for its volcanoes, and many many amazing waterfalls dotted all over the island. It’s also great for diving and surfing. 
• Komodo islands: Famous for the Komodo dragon, really wished we had made it, but it will definitely be on my list to visit when I return to backpack Indonesia once more! 
• Raja Ampat: a divers dream, absolute dream 
• Flores island: this was on our list too, it looks beyond beautiful and still very undiscovered. 
• Padar island: part of the Komodo islands, but famous for its stunning beaches and iconic landscapes. Famous for those pink beaches too!

Our 18 favourite things to do in Indonesia 

There are hundreds of amazing things to do in Indonesia, too many for me to possibly list in one lifetime. So, I’m going to round it off to 18 awesome things you can place on your Indonesia itinerary. 

1. Sunrise at Mount Bromo 

This is one of my fondest memories of visiting Indonesia. I’ve done quite a few sunrise adventures over the years, but the sunrise at Mount Bromo surpassed all my expectations and the beauty that unfolded in front of my eyes was unbelievable. Was also cool that you could fly a drone! 

I’ve done a whole guide on doing a Mount Bromo tour that you can check out here , but this should be number one on any Indonesia bucket list. 

2. Dance around the tea fields of Bandung 

If you haven’t been to Sri Lanka and visited the amazing tea fields there, then you’re going to love Bandung. As it sits a little “higher” the climate is a little cooler which means it’s perfect for growing tea plants. Tea fields are super pretty and they're a great place to visit. You can fly your drone , have a picnic, or just simply enjoy the views.

3. Drive up to the active volcano of Tangkuban Perahu

If you’ve always wanted to visit an active volcano, without the effort of actually climbing the volcano, then I’ve found you the perfect option. You can literally drive all the way up to Tangkuban Perahu volcano. Actually when Brad and I drove the whole way up there, it was not possible for visitors to reach the top, as it had just erupted like 3 days before...whoops, should have checked the news. But we did get to visit the control room and look at the volcanic activity and how they track it etc. 

4. Visit the rainbow village of Jodipan 

Ah, this is definitely one of the best things to do when backpacking Indonesia. The colourful rainbow village of Jodipan was created as a way to bring tourism to an underdeveloped area of Malang. It was an idea by the university students and it’s really cool! Right beside there is a blue village which looks like the one from Morocco, but the two side by side, make for an amazing drone shot...as you can see!

5. Explore the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia: Tumpak Sewu

East Java is home to many incredible waterfalls , but perhaps the most famous and inspiring is Tumpak Sewu. It's located around an hours moped drive outside of Malang and it’s without doubt the best waterfall I have seen in all of Indonesia (so far).

Not only is it powerful, you can hike down underneath it to feel the power, you can also fly a drone and get some amazing pics. At certain times of the day, when it’s not cloudy you can see an awesome volcano as the backdrop of a waterfall which makes for an amazing shot! 

Plus the drive out here is nice, you go through some local villages. 

6. Catch sunrise at the stunning Borobudur temple 

This is one of the most unique temples I’ve come across. After you’ve backpacked a lot of Asia, temples begin to look similar, but not this one. It’s unique, beautiful and it makes for an awesome sunrise (if you can wake up...cough). 

7. Visit the most beautiful temple in Indonesia: Prambanan Temple 

This is my favorite temple in all of Indonesia. The texture, shape, sheer size and beauty all leads to such a cool temple. It’s actually quite a big complex and you can view 3 sets of temples within, and you can get to them all via segway, which is fun!  This is such a beautiful spot to visit when backpacking Indonesia. 

8. Visit the beautiful Becci Peak 

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Yogyakarta city centre, then rent a moped and head to the hills, literally. The forest areas are filled with amazing lookout spots, picture spots, zip lines and more. Becci Peak is one of those and it offers amazing views! You can do zip line here for $1, or eat a local lunch. 

9. Visit the love heart of Yogyakarta 

I actually found this place on Instagram before we visited Indonesia, and I thought, I want to find that! Well, if you head to the coast of Yogyakarta, then you can. If you go in the dry season, as we did, the the flowers are a little worn out as it’s located on a sand dune (that you can sand board or rent a jeep at too!), but in the summer the colours are in full swing! 

10. Go waterfall chasing in beautiful Bali 

Bali is literally bursting with amazing waterfalls, and all my favourites are located in the north. They’re less discovered, more beautiful and even more fun. Aling Aling, I’m talking about you and your natural slides and epic jumps. Sekumpul and Git Git are two other great waterfalls in north Bali. 

READ :  7 Best Waterfalls To Visit In Bali

11. Visit the iconic Diamond beach and T-rex beach on Nusa Penida 

Nusa Penida is filled with awesome spots to visit, but actually some of my favourites are the diamond beach and t-rex beach. The latter I almost made it too but had a moped accident on the way, so ended up at a hospital instead, but you’ll recognize the beach. It’s probably the most photographed spot on Nusa Penida. 

TOUR :  This Nusa Pendia Instagram Tour is a great way to see all the best sights on Pendia in one day.

12. Snorkel with the fishes on Nusa Lembongan 

Snorkelling in Nusa Lembongan was a lot of fun. We didn’t do a lot of snorkelling anywhere else in Indonesia (other than the Gili islands), but Nusa Lembongan was filled with lots of cool fishes. Not as good as the Philippines, but if it’s your first time snorkelling then you’ll absolutely love it. 

TOUR :  This Nusa Lembongan Tour will take you to ALL The best spots on the island.

13. Walk among the beautiful rice terraces of Sidemen 

When visiting rice terraces in Bali, everyone flocks to Ubud, but honestly I think the ones in Sidemen are much more beautiful. Perhaps because they’re not overtaken by tourists (yet :P) 

14. View the most epic sunsets at Uluwatu Temple 

To this day, Uluwatu is still one of my favourite sunset spots in the world. The temple there is awesome and you should visit it just before sunset. Pick up a couple of bintangs, find yourself a seat by the water (on a wall probably) and enjoy the view. 

15. Visit the iconic Bali Gates of Heaven 

When I first visited Indonesia, this wasn’t really a popular tourist attraction, but fast forward a couple of years and it’s too popular. But I think it makes for a really cool picture! 

READ : My Ultimate Guide On Visiting The Bali Gates Of Heaven 

16. Visit the beautiful Batu Flower Garden and discover hidden waterfalls 

The Batu flower garden in Malang was really cool, not only very well maintained, but there was a hidden waterfall. It was a bit of a trek to get to, but no one else was there and it was pretty beautiful. I love discovering hidden gems and places no one is at. 

17. Experience a sunrise hike at Mount Batur

Mount Batur is one of the active volcanoes in Bali and it makes for an epic sunrise. The most popular activity here to do a sunrise hike, which is medium difficulty I’d say, then when you reach the top, you’ll experience an epic sunrise, followed by a breakfast of typically bread and banana! This was one of my favourite things to do in Bali.  This is probably one of the most famous places to visit in Indonesia. 

18. Shop at the many many markets

Ubud is a great spot to pick up gifts for friends and family and presents for yourself. The Ubud markets have something for everyone and lots of local produce and crafts too. It's a really cool place to visit, but make sure you're ready to haggle!

TOUR :  This best of Ubud tour will take you to all the best spots in the area.

Choosing your Indonesia Itinerary

Regardless of how long you have to spend in Indonesia, you can create an itinerary that will showcase some of the best spots in Indonesia. I warn you, it'll be busy! Check out our variety of Indonesia itineraries below for some inspiration...

• 1 WEEK ITINERARY
• 2 WEEK ITINERARY
• 3 WEEK ITINERARY
• 4 WEEK ITINERARY

1 Week Indonesia Itinerary Ideas

So, you’ve got one week in Indonesia, well you’re simply going to have to return! :P But no, one week will limit you to what you can do, so I would suggest sticking to one island. If you’ve never been to Indonesia before, you can head to Bali and explore that island, and squeeze in a day trip to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembogan. 

I’ve actually got a 7 day Bali Itinerary which you might find quite useful in this case. 

2 Week Indonesia Itinerary Ideas

2 weeks in Indonesia is more viable to work with. I would suggest something along the lines of this.

Bandung> Yogyakarta> Malang> Bali> Nusa Lembongan> Nusa Penida

• Bandung: 2 nights  ‍
• Yogyakarta: 3 nights  ‍
• Malang: 3 nights  ‍
• Bali: 4 nights  ‍
• Nusa Lembongan: 1 night ‍
• Nusa Penida: 1 night

Total: 14 nights in Indonesia.   ‍

This 2 week route will allow you to see the beauty of Java islands with it’s awesome waterfalls, beautiful temples, and importantly, Mount Bromo! It’ll also give you a chance to sample the delights in Bali, but I suggest you focus on one area to make your time worth it, such as the north or south. It will also allow you to visit the nearby Nusa islands, which you could spend a night on each and get all the highlights done in a day! 

This itinerary is perfect for a 2 week Indonesia backpacking trip!

3 Week Indonesia Itinerary Ideas

3 weeks in Indonesia will allow you to really delve into a couple of islands and experience truly everything on offer. 

Bandung> Yogyakarta> Malang> Bali> Nusa Lembongan> Nusa Penida>Gili islands 

• Malang : 3 nights  ‍
• Bali: 6 nights  ‍
• Nusa Lembogan: 1 night  ‍
• Nusa Penida: 2 nights  
• Gili islands: 4 nights 

This 3 week Indonesia itinerary will give you lots of time to explore Java, a lot of Bali, the Nusa islands, and the Gili islands. 4 nights on the Gili islands will give you a chance to explore all 3 Gili islands. 

4 Week Indonesia Itinerary Ideas

1 month in Indonesia will give you a chance to explore lots and lots, more than Brad and I even did. Here is my perfect Indonesia itinerary for 4 weeks. 

• Jakarta: 1 night ‍
• Bandung: 2 nights ‍
• Yogyakarta: 3 nights` ‍
• Malang: 3 nights ‍
• Bali: 6 nights ‍
• Nusa Penida: 2 nights ‍
• Gili Islands: 4 nights  ‍
• Lombok: 3 nights  ‍
• Komodo islands: 4 nights 

This 4 week backpacking Indonesia itinerary will give you the full experience. The last trip for the Komodo islands is 4 nights because you can easily get 3 night, 4 day trips to the Komodo islands, so it should work out perfectly in your Indonesia travel itinerary. 

Regardless of which Indonesia itinerary you opt for, you’ll have an amazing time discovering this amazing country filled with beauty, diversity and awesome food and people! 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Indonesia?

If you’re wondering when to go to Indonesia, it’s got a lot to do with the certain months of the year that aren’t monsoon season. That being said, a lot of people do still travel during monsoon season, but you just have to be prepared. 

I think the best month to travel to Indonesia is during June, it’s not “peak” season but the weather is great. The peak months are July, August, and nowadays, September. There’s no cheaper time to visit, because honestly Indonesia is one of the cheapest places to visit in all of Asia. 

Shoulder seasons are a great time to visit because you can usually get flights cheaper to and from the country, especially if you’re travelling from the UK. Check Skyscanner for the best deal in flights. 

Backpacking Indonesia: Sorting Your Indonesia Visa

When it comes to your Indonesia visa, you’ll be happy to hear it’s quite simple if you don’t plan on staying more than 30 days. Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival which lasts for 30 days. No fuss! 

But, if you want to stay a month longer, then it’s a different process. You’ll need to buy a visa on arrival for “--”, then about a week before it expires, head to an immigration office near where you are staying in Indonesia, and pay to get it extended. You CANNOT extend a “visa on arrival”. 

Now, the immigration officers in Jakarta tried to scam Brad and I. Basically he said we could buy 2 months right there and then, no need to extend. I gave him the money, but before we got stamped in, I just didn’t feel confident (as I had read differently online), so I asked another immigration official, and he said nope, you’ll need to get it extended and pay the fee. I explained that someone just took our money for the second month...he asked me to point him out, I did and the officer in question walked up to me, shook my hand, apologized, and oh, the money I had given him was in the hand…..cheeeeeky! 

Can’t trust anyone :P 

If you want to stay longer in Indonesia on a “visa on arrival”, you’ll have to leave the country and re-enter. Lots of people do a “visa run” to Kuala Lumpur in Singapore. There is currently no limit on how many times you can enter and exit Bali in one year…

Just remember to check your appropriate government website for all the specific information you need for your entrance to Indonesia. 

How Do You Get To Indonesia?

You fly! The easiest way to get to Indonesia to fly. You can fly from all across the world and there are lots of airports all across the different islands. Popular spots to fly into include, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok and Bali. It’s easy to fly into one of these, then fly out of the other, no need to “round-trip”.

If you’re wondering how long it takes to get to Indonesia, then it really depends on what part of Indonesia you’re visiting and where you are coming from. From the UK, with stopovers, it typically takes 13-15 hours. If coming from other areas of Asia, it can take as little as 2 hours, to 4-5 hours. 

Again, check Skyscanner for the best flights around the world. 

Getting Around Indonesia

You’ll be pleased to hear that getting around Indonesia is fairly simple. I’ve actually done a whole post on it which you can check out here, but I’ll summarize here too. 

When it comes to getting around Indonesia, you’ve got a few options. 

• ‍ Fly : Especially on the island of Java, where there is an airport at almost every popular town or city, you can fly internally on the island for quite a cheap price. Of course this won’t be great on your carbon footprint, but who am I to judge. It is an option if you’re limited on time.  ‍
• Train : On the island of Java the train network is excellent and you can get across the whole country via comfortable and cheap train travel. It’s how we travelled all through Java and the train views are awesome.  ‍
• Bus: There are bus routes in Indonesia, but actually I’ve never travelled on a bus in Indonesia, so I can’t comment. I imagine they’re cheap, but a lot slower than trains!  ‍
• Moped: Renting a moped is the best way to get around cities or even smaller islands like Bali, or Nusa Penida. We actually wanted to rent a moped to drive all across Java for 10 days, but it turns out there are laws in place actually making that pretty difficult, so we couldn’t do it. But in general moped rental in Indonesia is very cheap at around $4 a day. Just remember to always wear a helmet! 

Finding The Best Accommodation In Indonesia

Thankfully when it comes to deciding where to stay in Indonesia you’ve got lots of options. Bali is the place that has all the choices in the world, however other islands have just as many choices. 

Our favourite website to book accommodation in Indonesia is booking.com. We used it all the time and found it to be the cheapest option. If you are staying on an island, like Bali, then airbnb is a good shout for longer term stays. 

If you’ve never used Airbnb before, then you can use our sign up code to get some money off your first booking. 

Indonesia Travel Guide: How To Dress

When it comes to wondering what to wear in Indonesia you’ll be happy to hear it’s not very complicated.

Yes, Indonesia is a highly Muslim country, which typically requires modest dress with shoulders and knees covered, but with tourists they’re quite relaxed.

I always suggest dressing modestly as a sign of respect, but you won’t be criticized for having your shoulders out. This is mainly for women anyway. 

For women I suggest long skirts, comfortable light dresses, and cotton trousers for the day time, then by the beach, swimsuits, bikinis, shorts etc.

Carry a sarong with you and you can use this to cover yourself when walking in public places etc. They’re super cheap and light so won’t take up any room in your backpack. Also, they’re nice if there is a chilly breeze by the sea. 

For men, I suggest shorts, three quarter length trousers, (cotton is more breathable), t-shirts, vest tops, and by the beach, normal swimming gear! Don’t walk down the streets with no top on, out of respect more than anything else. 

If you want the PERFECT travel pants for your trip to Bali, then check out Buddha Pants for awesome, comfortable, versatile pants that are easy to pack away, and available in a wide range of styles.

What To Pack For Indonesia

When it comes to deciding what to take to Indonesia, you need to be practical and consider your space. I’ve produced a small Indonesia packing list which will cover the bare essentials and the core products you should take with you when backpacking Indonesia.

For a better idea of what to take, check out our Bali packing list ; which covers everything you need for basically every island in Indonesia.

Do not skimp on high quality shoes when travelling. You’re going to be walking a lot. Personally I wear Skechers go walk and I’ve been using them for 3 years that they are perfect!

If you plan on doing a lot of hiking and adventurous activities, invest in a pair of good quality hiking shoes. You can hang them onto your rucksack.

Brad LOVES these flip flops and I have to say they’re the best pair he has ever bought. They are high quality, comfortable and you can open beer bottles with them (oh yeah!). He uses them for the beach, walking up mountains, long walks, everything and they last long!

As said before, it’s a good idea to have a light jacket for your evenings. Some places it can get a little chilly so this will make you more comfortable.

If you want to stay cool, then wear cool long trousers, these are good in the evening to help cover your legs from bug bites.

Keep your head protected from the intense sunshine!

Super lightweight and breathable means these are perfect for backpacking Mexico.

Certain areas of Mexico are prone to mosquitoes, so use deet to keep them at bay. I recommend at least 50% deet.

Protect your skin. You still tan with sunscreen on! Get a high factor and note that it will be more expensive when you arrive to purchase, so it’s best to bring before you go backpacking Mexico.

You’re going to want to document your travels and if you want a camera that takes high quality pictures and super high quality videos, then I suggest the Canon G7x Mark II. It’s what we use for 80% of our pics and videos. Get a Go Pro for cool underwater pics.

It’s good to invest in a decent one which will work for a variety of different countries in the world.

Rather than carrying around actual books, a Kindle is a far more practical item to have with you, and you can download as many books as you want for just a few dollars each. The Kindle Fire also lets you browse the internet, so saves you taking a tablet with you as well, if you're that way inclined.

If you're keen to learn more about the history of Sri Lanka, then this is a great book. It covers everything through from ethnical origins of Sri Lanka's population, all the way up to modern day tourism.

Lonely Planet have long been the go-to provider of travel guide books for all countries around the world. Personally, we have never paid for one, but instead look out for them in hostels and hotels! But they certainly are in-depth, so long as you get the latest edition. Which is crucial for Sri Lanka. We read a Lonely Planet Guide book for Sri Lanka that was dated 2004 and which described how hostile and dangerous the country is! Which, I suppose, it was at the time. What with the civil war and all ...

Personally, we always opt for Rough Guides as opposed to Lonely Planet. They do some great itinerary and off-the-beaten-track suggestions. So, if you’re looking for more travel inspiration, then go for Rough Guides.

This Divided Island is an incredibly popular book that has been nominated for, and win, some very highly praised awards. It offers deep insight into what life was like during the recent Sri Lankan civil war.

Island Of A Thousand Mirrors looks at the deep rooted conflict that exists between the Tamil and Sinhalese peoples of Sri Lanka. It does so through the eyes of two young girls, each of whom who come from a different cultural upbringing but still wish to remain friends despite their differences.

Finally, here are two books, completely unrelated to Sri Lanka, but which Cazzy enjoyed during her time here. Cecelia Ahern is her favourite author and Marble Collector and Flawed proved to be yet another two great novels by the world-renowned author.

Eating and Drinking in Indonesia

Food and drink in Indonesia is awesome! There is something to really suit everyone. Popular dishes include Nasi and Mei Goreg. Nasi means rice, and Mei is noodles. You can get a variety of forms of these dishes, but they’re all super super cheap (less than $1 on some occasions). 

If you’re a vegetarian, you can get veggie versions of those dishes too. Chicken satay is also a great dish that’s very cheap and local. But if you’re craving some western style food, then you’ll find that super cheap all over the country. 

One of our favourite foodie destinations was Yogkarata, high standard food for a cheap price. Also, Bali is an excellent place for vegans and vegetarians, they even have a totally vegan fast food restaurant. Check out this awesome guide for some amazing recommendations!

Since Indonesia is a mulsim country, there isn’t a lot in terms of alcohol. Locals tend to drink local beer however and the most famous brand is “bintang”, these are fairly cheap and not bad to drink! Great on a hot day by the beach. 

If you don’t like the taste of beer, like me, then try a Bingtang Raddler which comes in a lemon and orange flavour, they’re really nice! 

The more toursity islands such as Bali, and the Gili islands serve all sorts of alcohol, but don’t expect prices to be as cheap as other Asian countries. Due to an alcohol tax, alcohol can be pricey, but you can get some brilliant two for one deals on cocktails. 

Remember you can bring 1 litre of spirits into Indonesia, so if you want to save on pricey alcohol in the country, then just bring your own with you. 

Useful Online Tools For Your Indonesia Trip

Thanks to the world of digital, there are a wide ranges of apps and online tools that can help make backpacking Indonesia super easy: 

Grab : The Grab app is available pretty much all over Indonesia and it’s brilliant for getting cheap lifts from A to B. We used it all the time. You can order food too which is great if you’re feeling lazy, or you’re sick. 

Go-Jek: Go-Jek is basically another version of Grab, but available and popular in Bali itself. It’s great to have choice, and you can use the “go-life” app to order massages, cleaners, repair people, all sorts!

Tiket : This is a great app to buy train tickets across the island of Java. We used it for all our trips, and you can save up points and get money off your next ride. 

12Go Asia: Brilliant website/app that allows you to book your train/bus/boat and shuttle travel around Indonesia. It compares a range of supplies and gives you the best deal. We found this excellent for boat transfers around Bali, the Gili islands and Lombok. 

Klook: I’ve mentioned some tours via klook across this post, but they are the cheapest provider of tours in Indonesia and it’s a super easy way to book. 

Airbnb : Airbnb is a great website for longer-term stays, and unique accommodation in places like Bali. It’s famous for its fabulous villa and treehouse offerings among rice terraces. 

Indonesia Budget: The Cost Of Backpacking Indonesia

You’ll be pleased to hear that when it comes to setting an Indonesia backpacking budget, it won’t need to be high! The cost if Backpacking Indonesia is quite low, so if you’re on a strict budget then it’s a great place to visit.

What’s also great is that it’s the type of country that will suit all budgets, so if you did want to splash the cash, you certainly can, but you’ll get so much more for your money than in the likes of Europe. 

You could easily get by on a budget of around $35-40 per day. 

Budget for food

Food is super cheap all across Indonesia, regardless of what island you find yourself on. If you eat local (and since the local food is so good, you’ll want to!) then you’ll probably only spend around $2-4 per meal, and that’s including a drink! 

I remember we went to quite an “up-market” restaurant called Roaster and Bear in Yogyakarta and got a start, main and dessert for £6-8….it was seriously amazing food too! 

Even if you want “western” food, you’ll find it relatively cheap too, especially in the form of fast food restaurants like Mcdolands, KFC and Pizza Hut. 

Budget for drink

As I mentioned before, since Indonesia is a majority Muslim country, there isn’t a lot in the way of drinks and when it is available it’s highly taxed. I would say the exception to this is the local beer, Bingtang, which is reasonably priced.

Don’t expect prices as cheap as other Asian nations but you can get cheap cocktails on islands like Bali and the Gili Islands. Just make sure you’re drinking proper spirits and not some homemade concoction that could kill you. 

Budget for travel

Getting around Indonesia is very cheap. Whether you use apps like Grab, or the train networks, or even fly, everything is cheap to use. You’ll get shuttles to and from various places within an island for a cheap price too. You should never pay over the top for travel in Indonesia, if you are, you’re getting ripped off!

Drone Laws In Indonesia

Drone lovers rejoice, you’ll be happy to hear that the drone laws in Indonesia are quite relaxed. As long as you follow the proper precautions, all the usual, label your drone, only fly to a maximum and minimum height, and don’t fly over religious areas, then you’re good. 

There will be signs allocated when you are not allowed to drone, so respect these. But droning in Indonesia is fantastic. You can drone active volcanoes, amazing rice paddies, stunning beaches and much more.

Some of my favourite drone locations in Indonesia include: 

• Mount Bromo on Java island: an unbelievable drone spot, get spots of the sunrise and of yourself walking on the edge of an active volcano. 
• Rice terraces in Bali: Stunning and endless rice terraces make for epic drone shots 
• Tea fields in Bandung: Endless tea fields also make for amazing shots 
• Nusa Penida : This island in general is a drone lovers dream, stunning beaches, water and cliffs make for amazing content. 

We use a Mavic Pro, who has been named Baby Mavic. He was worth every penny we spent for the high quality content he produces! 

You might also like: Best Travel Drones Guide

Final Thoughts And Advice From Our Indonesia Itinerary

When backpacking Indonesia, you’re going to have a lot of fun. Brad and I travel as a couple , but I think Indonesia would be quite safe for solo travellers too.  We never ran into any issues in all our time there and people were super welcoming, super helpful and happy to see us, which is always nice. 

Just don’t forget to obtain comprehensive travel insurance for your trip. If you're a type 1 diabetic, like me then you can check out my guide on finding good value diabetic travel insurance, or if you’re a regular human from the UK, try Compare the Market, or a regular human from elsewhere (Americans, this one is good for you), then try World Nomads. 

I hope you’ve found this Indonesia travel guide useful and hopefully you feel confident and ready to take a trip to Indonesia. Any questions, then feel free to drop a comment below.  

Also be sure to check out:

• Our 90 Best Travel Tips: Save Time, Money & Stress!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Indonesia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Indonesia Travel Guide (Tips + Secrets • 2024)

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s get to it.

Why Go Backpacking in Indonesia?

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

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

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

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Indonesia

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

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

Backpacking Indonesia 10-Day Itinerary #1: Exploring Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Indonesia 8-Week Itinerary #4: Indonesia Highlights

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

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

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

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

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

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

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

Backpacking Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Lombok

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Java

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Flores

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Sumatra

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

1. Explore Bali

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

2. Go Scuba Diving

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

3. Check Out the Last Remaining Dragons

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

4. Chill out or Party on the Gili Islands

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

5. Trek in the Sumatra Jungle

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

6. Chase Waterfalls

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

7. Join a Yoga Retreat

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

8. Climb Mt. Bromo

This epic volcano is located on Java.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Daily Budget in Indonesia

Money in indonesia.

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Visiting Indonesia on a Budget

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

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

Why You Should Travel to Indonesia with a Water Bottle

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

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

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Festivals in Indonesia

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

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

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

What to Pack for Indonesia

Travel Security Belt

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

Microfiber Towel

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

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

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

‘Monopoly Deal’

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

Hanging Laundry Bag

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

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

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

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

For more safety tips for travelling Indonesia, you should:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Insurance for Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Requirements for Indonesia

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

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

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

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

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel by Motorbike in Indonesia

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

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

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

Hitchhiking in Indonesia

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

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

Onwards Travel from Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

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

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

Volunteer in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

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

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

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

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

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

Useful Travel Phrases for Indonesia

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

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

Hello –  Halo

Good morning/afternoon –  Selamat pagi/sore

How are you? –  Apa kabar?

I’m fine –  Baik-baik saja

Thank you –  Terima kasih

You’re welcome –  Sama-sama

Please –  Silakan

Where is the bathroom? –  Kamar kecil di mana?

No plastic bag –  Tidak ada kantong plastik

No straw please –  Tidak ada sedotan silahkan

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

What is this? –  Ini apa?

Sorry –  Maaf

I want a beer –  Saya mau satu bir

See you later –  Sampai jumpa lagi

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

Books to Read About Indonesia

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

A Brief History of Indonesia

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

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

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

Brief History of Japanese Occupation in Indonesia

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

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

Indonesia after Independence

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

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

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

Indonesia in Modern Times

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

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

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

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

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

Trekking in Indonesia

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

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

Scuba Diving in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

Scuba Dive Indonesia on a Liveaboard Trip

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

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

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

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

Ah the possibilities we have in this life…

Sounds pretty epic, right?

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

Surfing in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

Joining an Organized Tour in Indonesia

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

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

Check out some of their awesome  itineraries for Indonesia  here…

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

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

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

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

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

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

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19 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• 12 HIKING ADVENTURES IN INDONESIA YOU NEED TO TAKE THIS SUMMER

With the dry season has already started here, now it’s a good time to visit this country. CLIMB INDONESIA TEAM has crafted some of the best-hiking destinations to take to quench your thirst for your summer adventure. lace up your boots and take your pick from the following options for the best hiking adventures in 2022 and beyond

1. Mount Gede – West Java, Indonesia

Mount Gede, is situated about 3 hour drive southeast of Jakarta, this mountain is the most accessible volcano from the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta, but that doesn’t mean that it’s less spectacular compared to other volcanoes in Indonesia.  Once you stepped into its trail, it will feel like a completely different world

One of the best ways to experience it is to get out on the trails, two-day hiking program will take you to the Alpine Meadow and to the top of the Mountain, where you can enjoy the volcanic scene during the sunrise. If you take the long loop, you can enjoy all the natural attractions at the mountain and at some inner part of the trails, it will feel like you’ve explored the hidden paradise of West Java.

2. Mount Ciremai – West Java, Indonesia

Set at 3,078 meters above sea level, Mount Ciremai is a solitaire volcano with a twin crater, East Crater, and West Crater at the top. Even for seasoned hikers, the combination of the volcanic landscape and its beautiful rainforest makes for an unforgettable adventure. The Mount Ciremai National Park provides trails with varying degrees of difficulty and panoramic views.  Hiking enthusiasts can reach the mountain from Kuningan or Majalengka regencies. Both have their own challenging treks. But the trip to the peak will be worth it as it is blessed with a picturesque vista, a crater, sunrise, and a sea of white clouds. The climb up this mountain would take 2 days 1 night to explore the craters, witnessing the sunrise and other beautiful spots.

3. Mount Slamet – Central Java, Indonesia

Soaring to 3,432 meters, the majestic stratovolcano Mount Slamet is the second highest volcano, and also one of the most active volcanoes in Java which attracts many hikers to witness the spectacular huge crater. Situated near the center of the Purwokerto town, Mount Slamet is a strenuous summit to hike that rewards climbers with the gorgeous panoramic landscape. Hikers have several trails to choose from, which begin from different sides of the mountain. Bambangan trail is the most popular route for hiking Mt Slamet with the entry point just near the main road to Purbalingga. As the highest mountain – volcano in Central Java, hikers will have to gain about 1,491 meters to meet at the 3,428-meter summit from the entry point Bambangan (1,937m). The climb up this mountain would take 2 days 1 night to explore the craters, witnessing the sunrise and other beautiful spots.

4. Mount Merbabu, Central Java Indonesia

Mount Merbabu 3,145 m, is a dormant stratovolcano in Central Java, widely considered one of Java’s beautiful mountains with spectacular views from the summit and many other mountains visible from the peak The hike up Mount Merbabu will take you about six to eight hours total. But it’s worth every step just to take in this sight! Make sure you have your camera ready to go because you’re about to see some amazing sights once you climb this mountain. This is something you have to experience for yourself. Normally it takes 2 days 1 night to climb up and climb down this mountain.

5. Mount Sindoro, Central Java Indonesia

located in the region of Wonosobo,  with the surroundings of beautiful landscape, Mount Sindoro 3,136 m is one of the active stratovolcanoes in Central Java, which is still under the radar of foreign hikers visiting Indonesia.   Mount Sindoro has a spectacular and very much active crater with parasitic craters and cones on the northwest-southern flanks. The mountain offers a gorgeous panoramic landscape along the trail to the summit. The summit of Sindoro offers majestic 360-degree views of the Dieng area, with Mt Prau to the north, Mt Slamet and Mt Ciremai to the west, and Mt Sumbing, Merapi, Merbabu to the east. Climbing Mt Sindoro is moderately challenging but very doable for the average person. With plenty of rest points along the way, this mountain is suitable for moderate volcano adventure with family and friends. The climb up this mountain would take 2 days 1 night to explore the craters, witnessing the sunrise and other beautiful spots

6. Mount Sumbing, Central Java, Indonesia

Standing at 3,371 meters above sea level, Mount Sumbing is the second highest volcano in Central Java. Climbing up along the trail reaching the summit of this majestic volcano you will be met by a spectacular sunrise in an amazing360 degree panoramic view. its peak consists of an 800 m wide crater which offers an amazing landscape a hillside of white rocks, steaming sulfur gases, bubbling water and mud pools, a view that you can enjoy from a short distance upon reaching the crater. Hikers can also enjoy a beautiful savanna and small sea of sand near the crater. This could be one good option for those who are looking for an easy to moderate volcano adventure and explore the hidden paradise of Central Java, Indonesia. Ideally, you have to spend 2 days 1 night to climb up and climb down Mount Sumbing

7. Mount Raung, East Java Indonesia

Mount Raung is one of the most active volcanoes on the island of Java, Indonesia. Located in the province of East Java, the mountain has 2-kilometer-wide and 300 m -deep caldera surrounded by a grayish rim. The highest peak of Mt Raung stands at 3,344m above sea level, it offers the most challenging trail as compared to other mountains in Java.  During the summit attack, the climber will need to wear rock climbing safety equipment, and climb with moving together system through a thin crater rim and rocky ridge, to enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Raung caldera.  The climb up to the highest peak of Mount Raung will take 3 days and 2 nights.

8. Mount Arjuna Welirang, East Java – Indonesia

Situated in East Java, the twin mountains of Mt Arjuno and Mt Welirang are located in Tretes, about 50 kilometers south of Surabaya, and 20 kilometers north of Malang. The massive Arjuno Welirang mountain range is one of the finest hikes in East Java which offer 4 peaks over 3,000m from the active Welirang in the west to the long-dormant Arjuna in the East. There’s a range of ecology, volcanology, and history to explore over several peaks and craters. 

Mount Arjuna stands 3,339 meters above sea level, it is the second-highest peak in East java, and is also the highest point of the enormous Arjuno-Welirang mountain range. Arjuno is a dormant volcano, and the lower Welirang peak of a 3,156m- although shorter than the sister mountain, but considered more popular among hikers, due to the active crater with an abundance of Sulphur deposits and today still mined by the local Sulphur miner. The climb up these volcanoes will take 3 days and 2 nights.

9. Mount Tambora, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Mount Tambora, the highest peak on the island of Sumbawa, is one of the most beautiful mountains in Indonesia. On April 10, 1815, Mount Tambora erupted for the first time in about 5000 years, with a series of large explosions sending a massive column of volcanic cloud into the air. That event is the largest eruption in recorded history and it left behind a crater 6 km in diameter. The Mount Tambora trail will take you deep into the heart of Sumbawa, one of Indonesia’s least-visited islands, with breathtaking experiences for the adventurous trekker. Enjoy a four-day excursion with fully supported camping, as you trek through lush jungle landscapes on your ascent to Mount Tambora, and witness spectacular views of the enormous crater from the top of the mountain.

10. Mount Kerinci, Jambi, Sumatera

Mount Kerinci – is Indonesia’s highest volcano. The mountain lies within Kerinci Seblat National Park, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of tropical rainforest in Sumatra, home to healthy populations of Indonesian wildlife, including elephants, bears, tapirs, and clouded leopards and gibbons, as well as the endangered Sumatran tiger. The active stratovolcano Mount Kerinci is a popular place to hike in Sumatra and offers challenging terrain, dense tropical rainforest, and stunning views from the highest peak in Sumatra, perfect for the adventurous thrill-seeker. The climb up this mountain would take 2 days and 1 night to reach the summit.

11. Mount Rinjani, Lombok Indonesia

Mount Rinjani is the most outstanding natural attraction in Lombok, which is also the second-highest and one of the most beautiful volcanoes in all of Indonesia. At 3,726 meters, the Rinjani offers breathtaking views of glistening sunrises and sunsets, a massive rim of Rinjani’s huge caldera, the fabulous cobalt blue Danau Segara Anak lake trimmed with hot springs, and the more recent volcanic cone of Gunung Barujari, which continuously growing. Enjoy a four-day excursion with fully supported camping, as you trek through lush jungle landscapes  and savanna on your ascent to Rinjani, and witness spectacular views of the enormous crater from the top of the mountain and the serenity of Segara Anak lake

12. Mt Binaiya, Mollucas Indonesia

This is probably one of the most exciting and rewarding mountain climbing expeditions in Indonesia. Yes, it’s going to be challenging and it may stretch your endurance beyond what you thought possible. This is a hard and strenuous trek. Seram Island’s Manusela National Park is known for its high number of endemic birds and mammal species. The national park is also the last stronghold of several critically endangered animals and plants. During 6 days of trekking, you will hike through pristine forest, cross crystal clear rivers and pass through several different types of vegetation in the park, including a montane zone, which occupies almost one-third of the park. Manusela’s plant life is fascinating, with mossy cloud forest extending upwards from 1,500 m and wind-stunted trees often covered with moss. The opportunity to experience the unique Spice Islands over the Binaiya mountain trail is truly stunning! Prepare for an epic adventure you won’t forget!

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Hiking in Indonesia

Here are the best trails that hiking in indonesia has in store for you:.

Duration of the hike: 2 hours Distance covered: Difficulty Level: Beginner - 2/10 Location: Kakaban Island, Berau Fee: IDR 10,000 per person per day

Duration of the hike: 4-5 hours Distance covered: 20 km Difficulty Level: Intermediate Location: Moni, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Fee: IDR 150,000 per person

Duration of the hike: 1 - 2 hours Difficulty Level: Intermediate Location: Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Jawa Timur Fee: IDR 320,000

Duration of the hike: 3 - 4 days Difficulty Level: Difficult Location: Mount Rinjani, Sembalun Lawang, East Lombok Regency Fee: IDR 150,000

Duration of the hike: 3 - 4 hours Difficulty Level: Intermediate Location: Padar Island, Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggera Timur Fee: IDR 15,000

Duration of the hike: 3 hours Distance covered: 3 km Difficulty Level: Difficult Location: Mount Ijen, Tamansari, Licin, Banyuwangi Regency Fee: IDR 150,000

Duration of the hike: 6 to 8 days (one way) Difficulty Level: Difficult Location: Wamena, Kabupaten Jayawijaya, Papua Fee: IDR 200,000

Duration of the hike: 3 days Difficulty Level: Moderately Difficult Location: Satar Lenda, Satar Mese Barat, Manggarai, Nusa Tenggera Timur Fee: IDR 350,000

Duration of the hike: 1 - 2 hours Difficulty Level: Moderate Location: Sidikalang, Sumbul Satu, North Sumatra Fee: IDR 4,000

Duration of the hike: 3 hours Distance covered: 666 m Difficulty Level: Moderately Difficult Location: Banda Api, Nusantara, Banda, Central Maluku Regency

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Hiking Indonesia will assist you exploring all mountain in indonesia. Hiking indonesia invite you more climbing or trekking in indonesia mountains. we are trekking, hiking and climbing specialist who have a wealth of experience in trekking trips.

Hiking Indonesia was founded in 2015. Hiking Indonesia is a trekking services company that organizes all mountain climbing in indonesia. list of names of the mountains that we organize for climbing such as mount rinjani, mount tambora, mount kelimutu, mount agung, mount batur, mount bromo and ijen crater, mount semeru, mount merapi, mount krakatu, mount slamet, mount raung and many others mountains. we from the services of the hiking indonesia company will facilitate your climbing needs.

Indonesia has the world’s most active volcanoes and many other mountains. These mountains sit on the Ring of Fire, and predominantly found in the islands of Sumatra, Java, and Lesser Sunda Islands, and outlying islands near Maluku, with the islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi largely devoid of volcanoes and high altitude mountains.

There are more than 500 volcanoes, 126 are active, 70 of them erupted in recent years. Sumatra has ~30 active volcanoes, Java ~35, Lesser Nusa Tenggara ~30, while Maluku and northern Sulawesi islands have ~34 volcanic islands and underwater volcanoes. These volcanoes together have around 5 millions people living around them.

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Blessed with rich cultures and astonishing natural beauty, Indonesia is a true choose-your-own-adventure destination. With a staggering diversity of cultures, landscapes and experiences waiting to be encountered, everyone from beach bums and culture buffs to serious outdoor adventurers will struggle to narrow down their itinerary once setting their sights on this vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands.

Don't miss beautiful Bali, where you can bliss out on perfect beaches, snorkel the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, cycle through lush landscapes and enjoy the island's fragrant cuisine and rich cultural heritage.

Admire the ancient splendour of Borobudur, one of the world's most significant Buddhist sites, and shop the lively streets of Yogyakarta for traditional puppets, silverware and beautiful batik fabrics.

Head to the island of Lombok to climb the majestic summit of Mount Rinjani, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular views over Segara Anak Lake from the crater rim. Afterward, reward yourself with a visit to the postcard-perfect Gili Islands for swimming and snorkeling in paradise.

Take a trek though the forests of East Java, hike to the volcanic peaks of Mount Bromo or Mount Sibayak, encounter ancient Komodo dragons and visit orangutan conservation projects deep in the jungles of Sumatra.

Whichever pace you choose, World Expeditions has a host of exciting itineraries tailored to give you an unforgettable Indonesian adventure.

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Antarctica & the arctic, australasia, central america, central asia, indian subcontinent, middle east, north america, south america, vessels & boats, advanced search, find your indonesia trip.

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Trekking & Hiking

Adventure Touring

Indonesia highlights

Go wild in the jungles of Sumatra

Walk the streets of Yogyakarta

Witness Borobuder's ancient wonder

Climb the Majestic Mount Bromo

Summit Mount Rinjani

Cycle in Bali

Visit the dragons of Komodo

Indulge in the sunsets on gilli air.

Authentic experiences

Explore Indonesia beyond the tourist beaches and you will discover a intriguing tropical paradise that never fails to impress. Our adventures take an active approach designed to get you off the beaten path, and while most itieraries include atleast one summit hike, others feature jungle treks to witness wild orangutans in their natural environment and island hopping in the Gilis.

Experienced local guides

Our bilingual guides are part of local communities and committed to providing you with an exceptional experience by imparting their extensive knowledge and introducing you to island life and culture. Many of the guides are also members of environmental care and sustainability groups that resound our responsible travel policies.

Leaders in responsible travel

Responsible travel practice is at the heart of our Indonesia program. When you book one of our adventures you are supporting safety and sustainability in the region as well as employment for local communities.

Litter collection

The 10 Pieces litter collection initiative is offered on our Mount Rinjani climb. Trekkers volunteer to collect 10 pieces of litter that they find on the trail each day, which we then dispose of responsibly. This is a simple and effective way to harness the collective power of tourists to keep wilderness trails clean and educate local communities about the negative impact of litter on the environment.

Animal welfare focus

We advocate for cruelty free animal encounters, encouraging travellers to follow the guidelines in our comprehensive Animal Welfare Code of Conduct as we seek to inform stakeholders about animal welfare matters.

Child safe tourism

Children working and living in tourist areas are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. We protect vulnerable children by adhering to our Child Protection Code of Conduct.

In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are centrally located, pleasant and reliable.

We use quality inns typically situated in natural environments. They are not luxury inns however we ensure they offer you a truly authentic experience.

Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness.

A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.

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Discover Bali’s beautiful beaches, lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage

Head to the island of Lombok and climb to the crater rim of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second highest volcano, for spectacular views over Segara Anak Lake

Visit the postcard-perfect, car-free Gili Islands for swimming and snorkeling in paradise

Take a trek though the forests of East Java, hike to the volcanic peaks of Mount Bromo or Mount Sibayak, encounter ancient Komodo dragons and visit orangutan conservation projects deep in the jungles of Sumatra

Admire the ancient splendour of Borobudur, one of the world’s most significant Buddhist sites

Shop the lively streets of Yogyakarta for traditional puppets, silverware and beautiful batik fabrics

Indonesia is hot all year around - hot and wet during the wet season and hot and dry during the dry season. Coastal areas are often pleasantly cool, however it can get extremely cool in the mountains.

Generally the dry season runs from May to September and the wet season from October to April. Temperatures between May and September can range from 20-25C degrees at sea level and can be as low as 5-10C while trekking at altitude.

Time in Indonesia

Jakarta is +7 hours ahead of GMT/UTC

Bahasa Indonesia (official), Javanese, English, Dutch

Indonesian Rupiah

International Dialing Code

Electricity in Indonesia is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Most passport holders, including Australians, British, Canadians, Americans and New Zealanders can apply for an e-visa (E-VOA), if staying for 30 days or less, no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/.

You can also apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports, seaports and land crossings, however travellers are strongly encouraged to apply online prior to arrival. You will need to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from your time of arrival into Indonesia.

If entering Bali, the Bali Provincial Government has a tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person for foreign visitors, this is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival and Visa on Arrival fees. To streamline entry procedures at Bali's airport and ports, travellers are urged to opt for cashless pre-payment before travelling. https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id/home

All customs declaration must be done online. This can be completed on arrival in Indonesia (the appropriate terminals are available at the main airports) or beforehand online. We recommend filling in the custom declaration form online up to three days before arrival. The QR code of the electronic custom declaration can be obtained by filling in the details here https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/cdonline.html

If you are from another country, please check your visas requirements.

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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.

You May Also Like: Absolutely Unmissable Things to Do in Ao Nang

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.

Read Next: The Ultimate Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan

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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• Indonesia Tours
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• Treks and Hikes in Indonesia

10 Mighty Indonesian Volcanos to Hike: Ready for the Challenge?

• 7.87K views
• ~ mins read

Indonesia is a country known for many things such as its pristine beaches and delicious food.  What many people don't realize is that Indonesia actually has more volcanoes than anywhere else in the world! Home to the "Ring of Fire", an area in the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, there are thought to be 150 volcanoes in Indonesia alone.

Some volcanoes in Indonesia are active while others are not, the latter being perfect for hiking or trekking. To find out which ones are most worth visiting, we've put together this list for you, in no particular order.

• Lauren Mathias

1. Mount Agung

You must have heard of Mount Agung (pictured above), particularly due to its recent eruption that caused some travel delays and complications on the popular tourist island of Bali . Mount Agung is the tallest point on Bali and is considered the most sacred mountain on the island. It is also a very popular hiking trail in Bali for more experienced hikers and can be scaled in about 6 or 7 hours with the help of a guide. A highlight of this volcano is the stunning Besakih Temple, or the Mother Temple, Bali's largest temple on the volcano's southern slopes.

• Location:  Eastern Bali
• Height:  3142 m
• Last erupted:  13 June 2019
• Status:  Active
• Seeing the beautiful sunrise from the top of the mountain
• Visiting the stunning Mother Temple of Besakih
• Far less crowds than other sunrise hikes, including Mount Batur
• The temple in Pura Pasar Agung is sometimes closed for ceremonies, so check in advance if you wish to visit
• This is a strenuous, tough climb and is mostly done in the dark (though worth it at the end!)
• You must get up very early if you wish to see the sunrise, leaving the starting point around midnight

2. Mount Batur

Mount Batur is probably one of Indonesia's most popular volcanoes due to its difficult but rewarding hike. Most people chose to do the two-to-three-hour hike of Mount Batur at dawn so they can see the incredible sunrise from the top. It is one of the most popular activities on the island of Bali for those looking for a bit of adventure. This Indonesian volcano is located in a beautiful sprawling caldera and is twinned by Mount Abang on the other side. 

• Location:  North Eastern Bali, not far from Ubud
• Height: 1717 m
• Last erupted:  25 March 2011
• Status:  No activity since its last eruption

Please read our guide to hiking Mount Batur for more detailed information.

3. Mount Bromo

If you're looking for an Indonesian volcano with a view, Mount Bromo is the one for you. Located within the Tenger Caldera, one of the most scenic locations in all of Indonesia, Mount Bromo offers incredible views of the sunrise with nearby Mount Semeru (featured below on this list) standing in the background. You don't even have to hike the volcano in order to see the view — you can also drive part way up the mountain and then ride a horse up to the top. There is a small set of stairs that you then must climb to reach the crater. 

• Location:  East Java
• Height: 2329 m
• Last erupted:  11 November 2016
• Status:  Minor activity since the last eruption
• Gorgeous sunrise views with other volcanoes in the background
• Not a very difficult hike
• Waking up early to see the sunrise (usually around 3:30 am)
• Dealing with very cold temperatures in the dark
• Checkpoint 2 on the hike is accessible by car, so you may have to share it with crowds

4. Mount Ijen

Mount Ijen is most well-known for its impressive crater, Kawah Ijen, where visitors get to experience a turquoise-coloured sulphuric lake inside. At night, the volcano gives off some pretty impressive blue sulphur flames — well worth the night-time hike to see. This is the largest acidic volcanic lake in the world, and sulphur collectors come to Mount Ijen every day to collect the mineral while being exposed to some pretty harmful fumes.

• Location: East Java
• Height: 2799 m
• Last erupted:  4 June 2016
• Status:  No activity since the last eruption
• Seeing the beautiful turquoise-coloured lake at the top
• Watching the blue flames leap up from the crater at night
• One of the most spectacular sunrises in all of Indonesia
• Hiking in the dark and the cold
• Having to wake up early (around 2:30 am) if you want to see the flame
• Strong sulphur smell at the top (you’ll want to wear a gas mask)  

5. Mount Kerinci

Well, this is the big one! Mount Kerinci is the highest Indonesian volcano, towering over the island of Sumatra at 3805 m. It lies in the Kerinci Seblat National Park. On a clear day, you can see all the surrounding cities and even the Indian Ocean from its summit. At the summit, you will also find a large crater filled with green-coloured water and Bento Lake.  

Mount Kerinci is also home to a wild abundance of wildlife, including the endangered Sumatran rhino and the Sumatran tiger. Due to the recent high levels of volcanic activity at Mount Kerinci, there is a 1 km wide exclusion zone around it but it should not be a worry as long as you stick to the trail.   

• Location:  West Sumatra
• Height: 3805   m
• Last erupted:  13 August 2017
• Status:  Minor activity
• Entrance fee: IDR 15000 (USD 1.1) for entering the Kerinci Seblat National Park
• Spectacular views of the surrounding area from the summit
• Diverse landscapes and wildlife, all the way up to the top
• Climbing the highest active volcano in Southeast Asia
• Camping on the mountains where nights can be cold with an early start each day (although some may argue that this makes for a more authentic hiking/trekking experience)
• You may not always be permitted to reach the summit, as the volcano is still active (your guide will typically advise as you get closer)

6. Mount Krakatau / Anak Krakatau

If you ask most people to name a volcano, they will probably name Mount Krakatua (or Krakatau). This may very well be the most famous volcano in the entire world, thanks to its massive explosion in 1883. The eruption was so powerful it was felt all the way in Sydney, Australia (some 4,000+ km away) and it even caused the volcano to break apart, so that it now grows in size every year and has even created other smaller volcanos. While you cannot hike this dangerous volcano, you can visit one of those 'baby' volcanos: Anak Krakatau, which can be reached in about an hour by speedboat from Cerita Beach (two hours from Jakarta).

• Location:  Sunda Strait, between Java and Sumatra
• Height:  813 m
• Last erupted:  10 April 2020
• Hiking Mount Krakatau:  No
• Spend the night on the beach at the base of the volcano
• Seeing the other fragments of the Krakatau volcano around you
• Look out for marine life (like dolphins) on your boat ride over to Anak Krakatau
• You cannot reach the summit, only a viewpoint about halfway up the volcano (if you go higher it is too hot)
• Must take a boat in order to reach the volcano

7. Mount Merapi

Mount Merapi, or "the mountain of fire" in the local language, is one of the most active Indonesian volcanoes; however, it has quieted down in recent years and can now sometimes be hiked when activity is low. Sometimes you can even arrange a nighttime flight over the volcano so that you can see the lava flowing down its eastern side. If you visit Mount Merapi, you can also see some of the ruins that were formed following the volcano's last large eruption in 2010. 

• Location:  Central Java
• Height: 2968 m
• Last erupted:  21 June 2020
• Status: Minor activity 

  Highlights

• Walking through the volcanic ash and seeing the ruins from the volcano’s most recent large eruption
• Seeing no less than 5 volcanoes from the summit on a clear day: Merapi, Merbabu, Sumbing, Sindoro and Telomoyo

  Lowlights

• There are many obstacles on the path up and down the mountain, so you must be very careful not to injure yourself
• This is still a fairly dangerous volcano to hike, and you often won’t be able to get too close to the crater

8. Mount Rinjani

Mount Rinjani is the only volcano on the island of Lombok and is also the second highest volcano in Indonesia. Every year, there are many pilgrims who make the climb to the lush crater lake Segara Anak to make offerings to the gods. While it is certainly hike-able, the demanding trek takes about two days (though the views from the top are absolutely worth it). You can also take some shorter hikes among the hills on the mountain's slopes. As Lombok becomes a popular alternative island to Bali, more and more people are visiting Mount Rinjani.  Please read our guide on trekking Mount Rinjani for more detailed information. 

• Location:  North Eastern Lombok
• Height: 3726 m
• Last erupted:  27   September 2016
• Status:  Dormant
• Magnificent views from the top — the best in all of Lombok
• Seeing some spectacular landscapes, including a lush floral valley near the top
• Looking down into the crater to see turquoise Lake Segara Anak
• One of the most challenging hikes in Indonesia with a very slow pace due to its steepness
• Very cold weather, particularly at night

If you are interested to hike Mount Bromo, Mount Rinjani and Mount Merbabu, another volcano adjacent to Mount Merapi, then the Indonesia Volcano Trek is for you.

9. Mount Semeru

You would be hard-pressed to find a volcano more diverse than Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on the island of Java , situated next to Mount Bromo . It is often called 'Mahameru' by the locals, which means 'the great mountain' and lets out a huge cloud of steam or smoke every 20 minutes or so. This stratovolcano is covered in a sprawling savanna and even features a freshwater lake and a field of Brazilian verbena (delicate purple flower) near the top. Hiking Mount Semeru is relatively easy, except for a slightly challenging slope near the summit, however, it would take you about two days to climb it in full. 

• Height: 3676 m
• Last erupted:  Continuous eruption since 1967 
• Seeing many different landscapes as you ascend
• Watching the volcano emit a belch of smoke every 20 minutes
• Spending the night at the campsite on Lake Ranukumbolo
• Strong sulphur air near the crater
• Can be very rocky and difficult in some areas

10. Mount Tambora

While the eruption of Mount Krakatoa may be quite famous around the world, it was, in fact, the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora that was one of the deadliest in the world — the largest volcanic explosion ever recorded. It was the cause of the "Year without Summer" in 1816 — a series of climate abnormalities that caused temperatures to drop and led to major food shortages around the world. The eruption was believed to kill about 71,000 people and was heard over 2,000 km away. Today, the volcano is calm and safe to hike.

• Location:  Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara
• Height:  2850 m
• Last erupted:  1967
• Uncrowded trail due to few hikers
• Discovering the archaeological sites at Tambora village, which was totally wiped out in the 1815 eruption
• Trying to find the volcano, as it is very remote
• Having to walk through a virgin jungle with many paths overgrown
• Dealing with the heavy rain (which is common in this area)

It’s no wonder that with about 13% of the world’s volcanos, there are so many Indonesian volcanoes that you can explore. Conquering any of these mighty giants is an ode to one’s endurance and determination. These mountains call to some of the most adventurous spirits, are you up for the challenge?

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Packing For Indonesia: The Essential Indonesia Packing List

Indonesia – it’s a magical place!

Epic waterfalls, lush forests, diverse landscapes. I’ve visited the country numerous times over the past few years, and I keep coming back for more.

So, after multiple trips (and a few too many packing mishaps), I think it’s fair enough to say that I know a thing or two about what to pack for Indonesia.

And I’ve covered them all in this mega packing guide.

Torn Tackies contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

What to pack for Indonesia: Your bags

Before you do anything, you’ll first need to decide what you’re going to pack everything into.

Large Backpack

If you’re a luxury traveler embarking on a 5* resort holiday with private transfers, then you’ll get away with a hard-wheelie suitcase.

But for everyone else, a backpack is a must-have when packing for Indonesia! They’re light, easy to carry, and won’t get muddy or wet from dragging across dirt roads or through ferry terminals.

And backpacks like this aren’t only for backpackers – they’re for everyone.

Carry on backpack or day bag

Having a good carry-on backpack is essential to every packing list for Indonesia.

This over-the-shoulder bag is needed for your day trips, beach-hopping shenanigans, and scooter missions.

These ones come in different colors and are trendy and practical!

Store your water, snacks, phone, camera, sunscreen, and beach towel in here. You’ll be all set and ready for the day.

If you’re doing a longer backpacking trip, I recommend this North Face backpack which has a separate compartment for your laptop. It even has waist straps for extra support. I bought this for my 7-month trip and loved it!

Packing cubes

Packing cubes should be on your list no matter where you’re going.

They can be used to separate all your clothing items, from swimwear to underwear, dresses to shorts. These ones are affordable and generally come in sets of 3 or 4 varying sizes, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

And they’re not only for clothes!

When I was backpacking in Indonesia , I used packing cubes as my laundry bag, toiletry bag, and make-up bag.

What to wear in Indonesia (for women)

Packing for Indonesia is no easy task – especially for us ladies.

You want to be prepared for every occasion but that often means overpacking. Don’t do that!

Depending on your itinerary for Indo and the type of activities you’ll be doing, you can amend the packing list items that I’ve recommended below.

But keep in mind that when packing from tropical climates, stick to fabrics that are lightweight and breathable. Because it gets very hot.

If you’re hiking Mount Bromo in Java or doing a walk through the rice fields of Bali, you’ll need a pair of closed shoes.

They’ll get very dirty, so don’t bring your beautiful white sneakers! You can also wear these on your scooter trips and during the flight.

I have these Hoka trail shoes , and they are amazing.

Flip-flops (Havaianas)

Every Indonesia packing list should include a pair of flip-flops.

I wore mine every single day – to the beach, shops, restaurants, and bars.

3 tank tops

These tank tops are light, quick-drying, and don’t take up much space.

They’re best worn to the beach and when you’re going out.

2 tops/loose-fitting t-shirts

Bring 2 tops like this that cover your chest and shoulders. These can be worn when visiting temples in Java, hiking in Flores, or doing yoga in Lombok.

And if you get a bit too much sun, you’re going to want to cover up the next day, so these are great for that as well.

3 pairs of shorts

I recommend a pair of denim shorts and 2 light shorts that you can wear over your bathing suit.

1 pair of yoga pants

I always carry a pair of long tights/yoga pants with me. You can use them for yoga, exercise, and travel in them.

Buy yoga pants here.

2 sundresses

When you’re packing for Indonesia, bring 1 or 2 flowy dresses that you can dress up or down.

2 bikinis/bathing suits

You might be tempted to bring more than 2 bathing suits, but don’t.

2 sarongs or large, light scarves

I wore my sarong just about every day. Whether it was as a beach towel, a skirt, or a shoulder cover-up at a temple.

Top tip: Laundry in Indonesia is cheap! So instead of packing more clothes, rather get your clothes washed every few days. It will be ready within 24 hours!

A light jacket

Although it will be hot, bring a light jacket like this to wear in the mornings, on boat trips, and for your flight.

Avoid a denim jacket as it takes up a lot of space, and you may not even need it.

Summer PJ’s

• 3 pairs of socks

6 underwear

Bring a small sling bag that you can use when going out for dinner or drinks.

It doesn’t need to be big – just something that can fit your purse, phone, and keys.

I have this one which is the perfect size and comes in 12 different colors.

I have a pair of these Ray-Ban Wayfarers . They’re great for traveling Indonesia as you can wear them on a hike yet also at a beach club.

I have a hit like this and love it, as it’s easy to travel with.

Things to bring to Indonesia (For Men)

It’s so easy for guys to pack for Indonesia. Gary had half the amount of clothing that I did!

• 1 Pair of trainers
• 2 x boardshorts
• 1 x smarter shorts
• 3 x round neck t-shirts
• 1 x collar shirt/Polo
• 1 x light jacket
• 1 x exercise top (for hiking)
• 1 x exercise pants (for hiking)
• 6 x underpants

Other items to pack for Indonesia

Beach towel.

Most homestays and hotels in Bali will provide you with bath towels. But you’ll still need to pack a small, lightweight towel for the beach.

It should be small enough to fit in your day backpack, along with the other items (so don’t bring a large heavy towel).

Some people prefer to travel with microfibre towels, but I love these Turkish towels . They’re quick-drying and don’t take up much space.

Reusable water bottle

The tap water in Indonesia is not safe to drink.

Your accommodation may offer complimentary water that you can decanter into smaller reusable water bottles like this . Keep this in mind when packing for Indonesia.

Combination locks

I’ve never had a problem with theft in Indonesia, despite traveling on buses and ferries overland to other islands.

But rather be safe than sorry and buy a combination lock to keep your items safe.

• Shampoo and conditioner (2 in 1): To save space in your Indonesia packing list, I recommend that you use a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner for your hair and body (so there is no need to bring a separate body wash.)
• Moisturizer
• Body cream: After hours in the hot Indonesian sun, you’re going to want to moisturize
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Sunscreen: Indonesia is hot. With the intense sun, I recommend bringing 70 SPF like this for your face and 30 SPF for your body. You can buy sunscreen from most stores and pharmacies in Indonesia, but rather pack a bottle so that you don’t need to worry about shopping around when you get here. Reef-safe sunscreen is the way to go!
• Make-up: Don’t pack too much makeup. All you need is a bit of foundation, mascara, and blush.
• Hair ties and clips

First Aid Kit

If you’re packing for Indonesia and going far off the tourist track, you might need to buy a first aid kit like this.

But if you’re following a tourist route with access to pharmacies and grocery stores, you should be able to get most supplies.

I recommend packing these in:

• Hand sanitizer or wipes
• Painkillers (Paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin)
• Bandages/plasters (Band aid)
• Antiseptic cream
• Mosquito repellent (e.g. Nobite, Autan, with ingredient DEET or similar)

Travel Insurance

When you’re hiking volcanoes, diving with Manta Rays, surfing big swell, driving scooters, and eating street food, you need to be covered for emergencies.

It’s scary how many people travel without insurance.

In Indonesia, it’s a common occurrence for foreigners to end up in the hospital due to motorbike accidents, food poisoning, and even dengue fever. Make sure you’re covered in case this happens to you.

I personally use World Nomads when traveling as they cover everything from stolen luggage, missed flights, natural disasters, and vehicle accidents, as well as activities such as surfing and scuba diving.

Electronics

• GoPro: If you don’t have one, buy one! You’ll want to capture all your favorite memories at these famous Indonesia landmarks (and they’re also great for selfies)
• Portable power bank: Your phone battery may not last very long when you’re using it all day. You’re going to need a portable power bank like this (and make sure it’s charged).
• Adapter: US plug ports don’t work in Indonesia. The plugs here take twin round pins, similar to European and South African pins. (Type F + G). This is the perfect travel adapter.
• Speaker: A speaker will come in handy when you’re chilling at your homestay with a Bintang in hand, playing an intense game of cards. We used ours often. But if you’re planning on being on the go all the time, then it might not be necessary.

What to bring to Indonesia: Essential travel items

• Passport (and visa if you’re staying longer than 30 days)
• Debit and credit card: bring both as you never know if one will give you issues
• Driving license and International Driving License (you need an international license if you’re driving a scooter )
• Copy of Passport, Travel insurance, Driver’s license, accommodation booking
• Passport wallet to hold your Passport and other important documents (all the above)
• Money purse: When going on day trips or scooter adventures, don’t travel with a big wallet. Instead, keep your cards, drivers’ licenses, and other documents in your travel wallet (above) and use a small money pouch to carry cash for the day’s activities

READ MORE: WHERE TO STAY IN BALI

Non-essential items to pack for Indonesia

Here are a few extra items that you might want to include on your packing list for Indonesia, although most are not necessary.

A pair of dressy sandals

If you’re planning a nice dinner during your trip, then you’ll need a pair of sandals. But if these types of activities aren’t on your Indonesia itinerary, leave them at home.

Planning on doing a bit of island hopping, snorkeling, or diving? Bring a dry bag to keep your things safe.

But honestly, these dry bags do take up a bit of space. If you’re only doing 1 or 2 boat trips, then it’s not entirely necessary.

A beach bag

Some people may prefer to have a nice beach bag for their day out in the sun.

A tote bag also works well and takes up little space.

Or better yet, leave these at home and use your small backpack instead – that’s what I did.

Snorkel and mask

Carrying around bulky snorkeling gear is a mission. Rather rent them on the islands.

Exercise clothes

Unless you’ll be exercising every day, don’t bring any workout gear.

All you need is a pair of yoga pants (which I included earlier) and a normal top.

You don’t need to bring Indonesian Rupiah with you to Indo as there are many ATMs just outside the arrival terminal at the airport.

READ MORE: WHAT TO PACK FOR BALI

Rash guard or swim shirt

If you’re learning to surf and expect to spend hours in the water, then you may want to consider adding a rash guard to your Indonesia packing list.

Rain Poncho

Traveling during the dry season (May-September)? Don’t pack a poncho!

But you’ll need one for the rainy season. They’re sold on every street corner in Indo. So don’t stress if you left yours at home.

Playing cards

I always travel with a pack of cards!

The book “Snowing in Bali”

I don’t read much. But this book is amazing, and I couldn’t put it down.

It’s all about the history of drugs and gangs in Indonesia. Super interesting! Read the reviews here.

What not to bring to Indonesia

• High heels: When packing for Indonesia, rather bring a nice pair of sandals.
• Expensive jewelry: Or any jewelry for that matter. It’s not needed.
• Jeans: They’re heavy and bulky, and you won’t wear them because it’s so hot.
• Too much makeup: Trust me on this one – If you’re packing for Indonesia, you don’t need much more than mascara and a light foundation. While Instagram may showcase a more dolled-up side to Indonesia (especially the island of Bali ), the country is super easygoing, and I didn’t feel the need to dress up or have my face caked in makeup.
• Water shoes: I’ve seen a few Indonesia packing list blog posts that recommend bringing a pair of water shoes. While these could come in handy when you’re walking over the reef at low tide, they aren’t necessary, and I never needed them during my time in Indonesia.

READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE FLORES ITINERARY

Packing for each season in Indonesia

Indonesia has a tropical climate and you can expect warm days throughout the year.

The climate varies from region to region, but the rainy and dry seasons are a pretty good starting point when it comes to packing for the different times of the year.

Rainy (wet) season in Indonesia

The rainy season runs from November to April.

If you are traveling during this time, you can expect short yet heavy rain showers throughout the day.

But don’t let this deter you from visiting. You just need to be a bit more prepared with a rain poncho and extra dry clothes. It’s best to have the flexibility to adjust your plans based on how the weather is behaving.

But it’s also extremely hot and humid during the rainy season. You won’t need long pants, and you’ll most likely spend all day and night in shorts and a t-shirt!

Dry season in Indonesia

The dry season is from May to September. During this time, the days are sunny and warm, and the nights are moderate temperatures.

You might need a warm top for those sunrise scooter missions. But overall, the temperature is warm.

But the best part of dry season? It rarely rains, and so there’s no need to pack a poncho or extra clothes!

What to wear in Indonesia: How modest to dress

This is a question that gets asked by most people when packing for Indonesia.

In destinations that are bustling with tourists, such as Bali and Java, it’s generally okay to wear summer clothing and show skin.

But if you’re going deeper into the country and visiting locations with few tourists, it’s better to pack more modest options.

Despite going completely off the beaten track to Sumba Island , I never felt judged by what I was wearing.

Use your discretion, and if you’re surrounded by people who are not showing skin, then maybe wear a sarong and shirt instead.

READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN KUTA, LOMBOK

Is it ok to wear shorts in Indonesia

Yes, you can wear shorts in Indonesia. I wore shorts often as it was so hot. But if you’re going to temples or sacred places, it’s best to wear longer pants.

Conclusion of what to take to Indonesia

As you can imagine, there are so many factors to consider when deciding what to pack for Indonesia.

This guide covers all the items you might need. But the final decision comes down to you – and how you travel.

If you’re backpacking Indonesia, you can get by with fewer clothes, but if you can’t travel light, then you may want to include more options.

My final piece of advice: Less is more (and pack light-weight clothes)

Are you packing for Indonesia? Do you have any questions about what to wear? 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
• 7 Incredible Bali Hidden Gems
• Guide to Scuba Diving Komodo Islands
• Best Beaches in Uluwatu, Bali

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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 .

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