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With 17,000 Indonesian islands scattered between the Asian mainland and Australia, the archipelago has more than its share of natural wonders and curious wildlife. You’ll discover everything from the scorched landscape of Komodo to the lush volcanic slopes of Flores and the shimmering reefs of the Gili Islands. Spectacular crater lakes change colour before your eyes, while sparring dragons could be straight from a scene of Jurassic Park.

Indonesia travel facts

Where to go in indonesia, best time to go to indonesia.

• How to get to Indonesia

Lombok and Gili Islands

Around 35 kilometres east of Bali, Lombok has more unspoilt beaches than its neighbour, and less traffic and pollution. Visually it’s stunning, with the awesome bulk of Gunung Rinjani rising above turquoise crater lakes. Just off shore, the fabled Gili Islands are ringed by white-sand beaches and pristine coral reefs. Of the three, Gili Trawangan is the party island, while Gili Air and Meno have a mellower vibe.

Java ’s central spine is dominated by volcanoes, their fertile slopes supporting glimmering rice fields dotted with countless villages. To the south is the homeland of the ethnic Javanese and the centre of their traditional arts, culture and language, epitomized by the royal courts of Yogyakarta and Solo. To the east, the volcanic massif of Gunung Bromo offers excellent hikes, particularly at sunrise. Elsewhere are the ancient temples of the Dieng Plateau, the turquoise lake of Kawah Ijen and the palm-fringed beaches around Pangandaran.

An explorer’s paradise, much of Sumatra remains undiscovered. Most of the highlights on the beaten path are clustered to the north of the old Trans-Sumatran highway: the orangutan-filled jungles of Bukit Lawang; Danau Toba, the spiritual heartland of the fascinating Batak tribe; the twin volcanoes of Berastagi; and the diving sites of Pulau Weh. To the west you’ll discover Bukittinggi – the cultural capital of the Minangkabau Highlands – and the jungle-rimmed lake of Danau Maninjau.

Kalimantan, Borneo

Occupying the southern two-thirds of Borneo, Kalimantan remains largely untouched by tourism. With few roads, the interior’s great rivers are its highways and a boat trip along the waterways will offer a taste of traditional Dayak life. More intrepid explorers can spend weeks navigating their way through seldom-ventured tropical jungle, and a visit to one of the national parks could bring you face to face with wild orangutans.

Flores comprises one of the most alluring landscapes in Indonesia. The volcanic spine of the island soars to 2500m, and torrential wet seasons result in a lushness that marks Flores apart from its scorched neighbours. The most arresting sight is Kelimutu: the three craters of this extinct volcano each contain a lake of different, vibrant and gradually changing colours.

Off the west coast of Flores lies Komodo National Park, a group of parched but majestic islands that are home to the endemic Komodo dragon. The largest extant lizard in the world, this fearsome creature weighs up to 150lbs and has a toxic bite, allowing them to hunt far bigger prey. The two most-visited islands in the national park are Komodo and Rinca; received wisdom has it that the dragons on the former are bigger but harder to spot.

Sulawesi ’s unusual “K” shape means nowhere on the island is much more than 100km from the sea. Mountains isolate its four separate peninsulas from one another and from the outside world – invaders were hard-pushed to colonize beyond the coast, and a unique blend of cultures developed. The south is split between the highland Torajans and the lowland Bugis; various isolated tribes occupy the central highlands, and the Filipino-descended Minahasans reside in the far north. The mountainous Tanah Toraja is the island’s chief attraction, thanks to its beautiful scenery, unusual architecture and vibrant festivals.

Jakarta is Indonesia’s unrivalled megalopolis, home to almost 30 million people across its 700-square-kilometre concrete sprawl. Though many travellers don’t give the capital a second glance, there’s nowhere better to experience Indonesia’s pulsing dynamism and heart-rending contrasts. Give the city a chance and you’ll discover everything from fascinating ethnic and historical quarters and interesting museums to heady nightlife and gargantuan new malls.

Discover more places in Indonesia

• Komodo, Indonesia
• Lombok, Indonesia
• Sulawesi, Indonesia
• Sumatra, Indonesia
• Sumba, Indonesia
• Sumbawa, Indonesia
• Raja Ampat, Indonesia
• Nusa Penida, Indonesia
• Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia

The whole Indonesian archipelago is tropical, with temperatures always between 21°C and 33°C, although cooler in the mountains. In theory, the best time to travel to Indonesia is dictated by the wet and dry season, though it’s often hard to tell the difference. This is increasingly so with the effects of climate change, which has already altered seasonal patterns, sometimes shortening and concentrating wet seasons.

Very roughly, in much of the country, November to April are the wet months (Jan and Feb the wettest) and May through to October is dry. The most expensive time to visit Indonesia is between mid-June and mid-September and again over Christmas and New Year, when rooms can be fully booked for days on end. Read more about the best time to visit Indonesia .

This part of our Indonesia guide will look at how best to travel to the country and how to get around the islands.

Jakarta’s Sukarno-Hatta Airport and Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport are the main international air gateways into Indonesia, with direct flights from several Australian cities and destinations throughout Asia.

The archipelago also has international airports at Medan, Makassar, Manado, Padang, Surabaya and Yogyakarta – with connections mainly to other Southeast Asian airports.

For entering by boat, Indonesia has ferry connections with Malaysia and Singapore.

When considering how to get around Indonesia , bear in mind delays are common to all forms of transport, caused by weather, mechanical failure, or simply not enough passengers turning up. The best option is to keep your schedule as flexible as possible to save yourself a good deal of stress.

One of the cheaper ways to get around in Indonesia is by bus. However, you may find that you’re getting what you pay for in terms of comfort and safety. Another option are the tourist shuttle buses for the longer distances.

In Java, you will find trains which are likely to be more comfortable and reliable than buses.

Ferry routes run between the neighbouring islands of Indonesia offering short and long distance route options. Check up-to-date route information and buy tickets in advance at the local Pelni office.

Domestic flights can be a quicker and cheaper way to travel between the Indonesian islands. State-operated Garuda and Air Asia are the most reputable airlines, handling a range of international and domestic flights.

Read more travel advice for getting around Indonesia .

The biggest Buddhist stupa in the world, the ninth-century temple is the greatest single piece of classical architecture in the archipelago. The surroundings are just as spectacular, with looming volcanoes on three sides and jagged limestone cliffs on the fourth.

Tucked away on the easternmost fringes of Gunung Leuser National Park, Bukit Lawang offers some of the world’s best opportunities for seeing orangutans in the wild. To witness these incredible creatures performing gymnastics in the treetops is one of the most memorable experiences in Indonesia.

Ubud is the cultural capital of Bali, known for its talented classical dancers and musicians and for its prolific painters and artisans. Set amid terraced rice paddies, the seductive town brims with art galleries, museums and artisanal shops.

Rinjani, at 3726m, is one of Indonesia’s highest mountains. The climb to its summit is challenging but rewarding, taking in forest, rocky peaks and the magnificent crater lake of Danau Segara Anak.

To the south of Sulawesi, the mountainous highlands of Tanah Toraja is home to one of Indonesia’s most confident and vivid cultures: the Torajans, famed for their ghoulish burial rituals.

Clustered about 150km southeast of Ambon in the remote Banda Sea, the Bandas centre around the perfectly conical peak of Gunung Api. Divers from across the world are lured to these far-flung volcanic isles to swim among sea turtles, black marlins and hammerhead sharks.

The three craters of this extinct volcano each contain a lake of different, vibrant and gradually changing colours. Trek to the lunar-like summit at dawn to see the sun rise hazily over the mountains.

Off the west coast of Flores lies Komodo National Park, a group of barren but majestic islands that are home to the Komodo dragon – the largest extant lizard in the world.

On the borders of Alas Purwo National Park in the far southeastern corner of Java, the fishing village of Grajagan has become famous for its world-class surf. Better known as G-Land, it boasts awesomely long right- and left-handers and many kilometres of pristine beach.

This trio of jungly specks just off the northwest coast of Lombok are strikingly beautiful, with glorious white-sand beaches lapped by brilliant blue waters. Gili Trawangan best fits the image of party island, tiny Gili Meno is a honeymooners’ favourite, and Gili Air offers a mix of the two.

The laid-back town of Bukittinggi appeals with its flamboyant Minangkabau architecture, the beautiful scenery around Danau Maninjau and the rafflesia reserves in the hills.

South of Flores, Sumba is famous for its intricate fabrics, grand funeral ceremonies and its extraordinary annual pageant of horseback spear throwing.

With dense tropical jungle and abundant wildlife, Kalimantan provides opportunities for river travel in undiscovered territory. Cruise past mangroves, jungle and stilt villages along Indonesia's longest river, the Sungai Kapuas.

Yogyakarta ranks as one of the best-preserved and most attractive cities in Java, and is a major centre for the classical Javanese arts of dance, music, poetry and puppet shows.

Tangkoko National Park is the home of the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier. These nocturnal tree-dwelling creatures resemble bush babies or aye-ayes with their large saucer eyes and long, thin fingers.

Read our full guide on things not to miss during your Indonesia trip.

We’ve expanded our Indonesia travel guide to include an example of our Tailor-Made travel itineraries . These Indonesia itineraries can take you to every corner of the archipelago – and you’ll learn plenty about the Indonesian islands no matter where you want to go or what you want to do.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Indonesia, created by local experts

6 days  / from 830 USD

Bali's Beaches and Temples

Experience Bali's brilliant beaches and temples with this stunning trip. Marvel at ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Pura Besakih, soak in stunning sunsets, stroll bare-footed along the best beaches in Bali and haggle at local markets – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

10 days  / from 1600 USD

Rest and Relaxation in Bali and Lombok

This unique trip will take you to some of Bali and Lombok's most traditional places. Look forward to driving through tropical landscapes and spending time in villages nestled in scenic spots of traditional luxury with infinity pools and stunning vistas over the ocean.

10 days  / from 2100 USD

Royal Bali - Culture & Beaches

Enjoy a luxurious stay in Bali, with hand-picked 5 Star Hotels. This trip includes privately guided tours as well as leisure time, ideal for families with kids. Highlights include sea temple Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih rice terraces and Uluwatu temple with its famous Kecak dance.

Rich wildlife, smoking volcanoes, pink beaches: the highlights of Indonesia can be covered in a two-week trip.

Two week itinerary : ULTIMATE INDONESIA

• Bukit Lawang, Sumatra. In north Sumatra, the thick, misty jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park shelters wild orangutans, which can be spotted cavorting among the treetops.
• Ubud, Bali. Browse the art galleries and craft stores of Bali’s cultural capital, before watching captivating performances by classical dancers and musicians. Spend another day at your leisure or on a cycling tour of the area.
• Mount Batur, Bali. Rising from a huge volcanic crater, Gunung Batur is a smouldering volcano with wisps of sulphurous smoke drifting across its slopes. Hike to the summit at sunrise for dreamy views.
• Penarungan, Bali. Penarungan is a remote village on the fringes of Ubud, where traditional rural Balinese life continues as it has for years.
• Komodo National Park. Go island-hopping across Kelor and Rinca for the chance to trek among lunar landscapes and spot the Komodo dragon, or ora as it is known locally. You may also spot other unusual wildlife like sulphur-crested cockatoos, brush turkeys and the megapode bird.
• Pantai Merah, Komodo. The candy floss-coloured sands of Pantai Merah are the reason for its apt nickname: Pink Beach. This rose-tinted stretch of sand hugs the coastline of Komodo, and is a great snorkelling spot for its tropical fish and manta rays.
• Kanawa Beach, Komodo. Spend the morning snorkelling in the crystal clear waters before your transfer back to Bali.
• Sanur, Bali. A laid-back beach resort hooking around the southern coast of Bali, this is a chilled spot to unplug on powdery sands.
• Tanah Lot, Bali. Framed by frothing white surf and glistening black sand, this elegant Hindu temple is marooned on a wave-lashed rock just off the Balinese coast.

Whether you have two weeks or a month, our local Indonesia experts can book a trip that gives you the flavour of travel in this extraordinary country.

Travel advice for Indonesia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Indonesia

• Culture and Etiquette in Indonesia
• Eating and drinking in Indonesia
• Getting around Indonesia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Indonesia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Indonesia

In this section, we will look at Indonesia travel advice and tips to help you enjoy a stress-free trip.

Money and banks

The Indonesian currency is the rupiah (“Rp”). Notes come in denominations of Rp500 (very rare), Rp1000, Rp5000, Rp10,000, Rp20,000, Rp50,000 and Rp100,000. Coins, mainly used for bemos, come in Rp25 (rare), Rp50, Rp100, Rp500 and Rp1000 denominations. Officially, rupiah are available outside Indonesia, but the currency’s volatile value means that few banks carry it.

You’ll find banks capable of handling foreign exchange in provincial capitals and bigger cities throughout Indonesia, and almost every town has at least one or two ATMs, which are also found within most Indomaret and Alfamart convenience stores. These generally accept at least one from Visa, MasterCard or Cirrus-Maestro.

Medical care and emergencies

Pharmacies ( apotek or apotik ) can provide many medicines without prescription, but if you need an English-speaking doctor ( doktor ) or dentist ( doktor gigi ), seek advice at your accommodation or at the local tourist office. You’ll find a public hospital ( rumah sakit ) in major cities and towns, and in some places these are supplemented by private hospitals, many of which operate an accident and emergency department. If you have a serious accident or illness, you will need to be evacuated home or to Singapore, which has Asia’s best medical provision. It is, therefore, vital to arrange health insurance before you visit Indonesia.

Crime and safety

Indonesia has endured a torrid time over the past decade or so, most recently with the January 2016 terror attacks in downtown Jakarta, killing eight including the four assailants. Together with the July 2009 bombings of Jakarta’s Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott hotels, the 2002 Bali bombings which left more than 200 (mostly foreigners) dead and the violence that surrounded the political and religious upheavals of the past decade, it undermines the idea that Indonesia is a safe place to travel. However, considering the scale of Indonesia and the vast number of international travellers, incidents involving Westerners are rare.

Petty theft, however, is a fact of life, so don’t flash around expensive computer equipment, jewellery or watches. Be aware of pickpockets on ferries, buses or bemos, who usually operate in pairs: one will try to distract you. Have nothing to do with drugs in Indonesia: the penalties are extremely tough, and you won’t get any sympathy from consular officials.

Read more travel advice for Indonesia .

As of 2016, citizens from 169 countries, including all of Europe as well as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US, can enter Indonesia visa-free at any official immigration gateways and stay for thirty days. However, travel requirements for Indonesia are notoriously prone to change, so it’s worth checking before you travel. For a full list of official gateways see indonesianembassy.org.uk .

Once you have entered visa-free, you cannot extend your stay so if you’re planning to stay longer than thirty days, you’ll need to either purchase a visa in advance from an Indonesian consulate or buy one on arrival for $35, which can then be extended for another thirty days at an immigration office (for Rp250,000).

Alternatively, you could make a visa run to Singapore or Malaysia before returning to obtain another thirty days in the country. A visa is most easily obtained in Singapore, Penang or Kuala Lumpur. A fee of Rp300,000 per day is incurred if you overstay your visa.

Prices for the simplest double room start at around $5 (more in touristy areas like Bali), and in all categories are at their most expensive from mid-June through to August, and in December and January. The bottom end of Indonesia’s accommodation market is provided by homestays and hostels. Penginapan, or inns, are often simply spare bedrooms in the family home, and there’s often not much difference between these and losmen, pondok and wisma, which are also family-run operations. Rooms vary from whitewashed concrete cubes to artful bamboo structures – some are even set in their own walled gardens. Hard beds and bolsters are the norm, and you may be provided with a light blanket.

In remote, rural Indonesia, you may end up staying in villages without formal lodgings, in a bed in a family house. First ask permission from the local police or the kepala desa (village head). In exchange for accommodation and meals, you should offer cash or useful gifts, such as rice, salt, cigarettes or food, to the value of about $2 at the very least.

At first glance Indonesian food may appear to lack variety, but scratch beneath the surface to discover regional specialities from across the archipelago and beyond. Influences from Chinese, Middle Eastern, Malay, Indian and Polynesian cuisines find their way into kitchens across Indonesia.

While rice is the favoured staple, noodles are also widely popular. Chicken, goat and beef are the main meats in this predominantly Muslim country, though plenty of pork options feature in Christian areas and seafood dominates coastal menus. Many restaurants offer a handful of vegetarian options, including cap cay (fried mixed vegetables), tahu (tofu), and tempe (pressed, fermented soya beans), a Javanese speciality.

Spices are the backbone of all Indonesian cooking, fried to form a paste for curries or rubbed over ingredients prior to frying or grilling. Meals are often served with sambal, a sizzling blend of chillies and spices. Vegetarians should be aware that krecek , a type of sambal, contains cow skin.

Alcohol is often a touchy subject in Indonesia, where public drunkenness may incur serious trouble, though there’s no need to be paranoid about this in cities. The locally produced beers, Anker and Bintang, are widely available. Spirits are less publicly consumed, and may be technically illegal, so indulge with caution. Nonetheless, home-produced brews are often sold openly in villages.

Some of the most popular Indonesian food and drink include:

• Nasi goreng , fried rice with shreds of meat and vegetables and topped with a fried egg.
• Nasi campur , boiled rice served with a small range of side dishes.
• Gado-gado , steamed vegetables dressed in a peanut sauce.
• Sate , small kebabs of barbecued meat or fish, served with spicy peanut sauce.
• Roti , an Indonesian bread made from sweetened dough.
• Indonesian coffee is among the world’s best, sweetened with copious amounts of sugar ( gula ).
• Tuak (“ balok ”) or palm wine, made by tapping a suitable tree for its sap, comes in plain milky white or pale red varieties.
• Rice wine ( arak or brem ) and sopi , a distillation of tuak, either of which can leave you incapacitated after a heavy session.

Read more about the food and drink in Indonesia .

Most people who visit Indonesia come for the sea, either surfing across the breakers or delving beneath the water’s surface on snorkelling and diving excursions. Inland is an abundance of hiking and biking opportunities, from volcano treks to wildlife-spotting in national parks and cycling among the lush countryside.

Indonesia has many of the world’s best diving sites, including Pulau Bunaken off Sulawesi, Pulau Weh off northern Aceh in Sumatra, the Bandas in the Maluku Islands, and Raja Ampat to the west of Papua. Most major beach resorts have dive centres, but once you get further afield you’ll probably have to rely on live-aboard cruises. A day’s diving costs anything from $45 to upwards of $100.

One of the main reasons why people travel to Indonesia is for its pounding surf. The best-known waves are found on Bali, G-Land (Grajagan) on Java and around Krui in southern Sumatra. Further afield, Sumba, the Mentawai Islands, and Lhoknga in Aceh are also increasingly popular. Good websites include baliwaves.com , indosurflife.com , wannasurf.com and wavehunters.com .

There are endless trekking opportunities on the islands. The best places to travel in Indonesia for volcano treks include Gunung Batur on Bali and Gunung Bromo and Gunung Merapi on Java. More taxing favourites include Gunung Rinjani on Lombok and Gunung Sinabung in Sumatra. Also in Sumatra, the Gunung Leuser National Park is Southeast Asia’s largest, and includes the famous Bukit Lawang orangutan sanctuary. Guides are available from local villages and tourist centres, at a cost of about Rp250,000–300,000 per day.

Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim country, but the practice of Islam across the archipelago has been shaped by centuries of interaction with Hinduism, Buddhism and other faiths, as well as traditional animist practices. As a result, Islam in Indonesia has historically been buffered against the more austere, exclusivist ideologies of certain Middle Eastern states. The majority of Indonesians remain relatively open and tolerant in line with the state philosophy of Pancasila, which grants followers of all religions equal rights.

Although there are regional variations in accepted social norms, with Aceh among the most conservative provinces and Bali the most liberal, there are also differences within provinces. Outside the main tourist resorts, dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites, to avoid giving offence. Often you’ll be required to wear a sarong and a ceremonial sash around your waist (usually provided by the most-visited temples). Be especially sensitive during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Of the vast range of traditional dance and music across the Indonesian islands, the best known are the highly stylized and mannered classical dance performances in Java and Bali, accompanied by the gamelan orchestra. Every step is minutely orchestrated, and the merest wink of an eye or arch of an eyebrow has significance. Ubud on Bali and Yogyakarta on Java are the centres for these dances.

Although there are also more 250 native languages spoken throughout the archipelago, Indonesia’s national language is Bahasa Indonesia, a form of Bahasa Malay. Because it’s written in Roman script, has no tones and uses a fairly straightforward grammar, it’s relatively easy to learn.

Pronunciation

a as in a cross between father and cup

e sometimes as in along; or as in pay; or as in get; or sometimes omitted ( selamat pronounced “slamat”)

i either as in boutique; or as in pit

o either as in hot; or as in cold

u as in boot

ai as in fine

au as in how

c as in cheap

g always hard as in girl

k hard, as in English, except at the end of the word, when you should stop just short of pronouncing it.

Given the enormous cultural and ethnic mix that makes up Indonesia, it’s hardly surprising that the range of traditional music and dance across the archipelago is so vast.

Best known are the highly stylized and mannered classical dance performances in Java and Bali, accompanied by the gamelan orchestra. Every step is minutely orchestrated, and the merest wink of an eye or arch of an eyebrow has significance. Ubud on Bali and Yogyakarta on Java are the centres for these dances. Yogya is also the main place to catch a performance of wayang kulit , shadow puppet plays.

A gamelan is an ensemble of tuned percussion, consisting mainly of gongs, metallophones and drums, made of bronze, iron, brass, wood or bamboo, with wooden frames, which are often intricately carved and painted. The full ensemble also includes vocalists – a male chorus and female solo singers – and is led by the drummer in the centre. A large gamelan may be played by as many as thirty musicians, and is a communal form of music-making – there are no soloists or virtuosos.

Sundanese (West Javanese) degung is arguably the most accessible gamelan music for Western ears. Its musical structures are clear and well defined, and it is played by a small ensemble, but includes the usual range of gongs and metallophones found in all gamelan.

Top image © Akhmad Dody Firmansyah/Shutterstock

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Indonesia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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Top 5 things to see and do in indonesia.

1. Relax in Bali

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

2. Dive in the Gili Islands

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

3. Admire Borobudur

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

4. See Komodo dragons

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

5. Visit Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

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

Other Things to See and Do in Indonesia

1. explore hindi prambanan.

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

2. Wander Jakarta

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

3. Snorkel or dive in Bunaken

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

4. Broaden your taste buds

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

5. Visit Yogyakarta

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

6. See the orangutans in Sumatra

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

7. Experience village life in Kalibaru

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

8. See the Bogor Botanical Gardens

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

9. See the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

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

10. Explore the megaliths in Bada Valley

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

11. Visit the House of Danar Hadi

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

12. See the lakes in Kelimutu National Park

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

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

• Bali Travel Guide
• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Indonesia Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Indonesia Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Indonesia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Indonesia

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

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

How to Get Around Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Indonesia

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

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

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

Indonesia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Indonesia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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

The 10 best places to visit in Indonesia

Dec 10, 2023 • 7 min read

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

Few destinations can beat Indonesia  in terms of variety.

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

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

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

1. Jakarta, Java

Best city for art and history .

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

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

2. Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan, Borneo

Best place to see orangutans.

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

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

3. Raja Ampat, West Papua

Best place for snorkeling and diving.

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

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

4. Ubud, Bali

Best city for wellness and culture.

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

5. Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggara

Best place for surprising wildlife encounters.

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

6. Borobudur and Yogyakarta, Java

Best place for indonesian history.

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

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

7. Tana Toraja, Sulawesi

Best place for cultural traditions.

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

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

8. Kerinci Valley, Sumatra

Best place for hiking.

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

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

9. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java

Best place for beautiful indonesian views.

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

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

10. The Gili Islands, Lombok

Best place for beach parties.

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

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

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Indonesia Travel Guide

Indonesia is raw, uncharted travel at its best. This group of 17,000 islands is largely unexplored by tourists and it has everything you could want in an adventure: volcanoes , waterfalls , jungles, underwater coral reefs, and lots of unique wildlife above and below the sea.

The most famous destination in Indonesia is the island of Bali , with its green rice paddies, luxury resorts, and local cuisine, but there are some other interesting places in Indonesia too. The islands of Komodo , Sumatra , and Sulawesi are great places for seeing exotic wildlife, while less known Sumba has white sand beaches and rolling green hills.

Java , the most populated island, has some incredible volcanic landscapes and ancient Hindu temples like Prambanan and Borobudur. Read through this complete Indonesia travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Indonesian; 'Thank you' is 'terima kasih'

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Visa free access or VOA for 160+ countries

Tropical; hot & humid year round. Dry season is April - Nov

Power Plugs

Grab , Go-Jek

Where Is Indonesia?

First things first -- where is Indonesia on the world map?

Indonesia is a country located in Southeast Asia and it’s made up of more than 17,000 islands. The main islands are Sumatra , Java , Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo), Sulawesi , and the Indonesian part of New Guinea (known as West Papua or Irian Jaya).

Indonesia is surrounded by Malaysia , the  Philippines , Papua New Guinea, and Australia, as you can see (in red) on the map below (© Wikimedia).

As a tourist, your main airports in Indonesia will be Bali (code: DPS) and Jakarta (code: CGK). These have lots of direct flights from other countries around the world.

Other major airports include Surabaya (SUB) in East Java, Medan (KNO) in Sumatra, Makassar (UPG) in south Sulawesi, and Manado (MDC) in north Sulawesi. You can shop for flights to Indonesia on Skyscanner.

Indonesia is a tropical country, so the weather is hot and humid year round.

The climate can vary a bit between islands, but generally Indonesia has a rainy season that runs from November to April, and a dry season that runs from April to November. It’s still very possible to visit Indonesia in the rainy season, but give yourself some buffer days in case of bad weather.

The best time to visit Indonesia depends on what you’re looking for. The nicest weather is during the dry season, when it's generally sunny and windy. This is a great time to hike a mountain (or volcano) and go see wildlife in the jungle.

However, the wet season can be a great time to see waterfalls and bright green crop terraces, and the rain is mostly in the evenings or at night anyway, so it's usually not too disruptive.

The spectacular Rammang Rammang karst village in south Sulawesi

Is Indonesia Safe?

Indonesia is one of the safest countries in the world, with a very low murder rate of 0.5 per 100k inhabitants (92% lower than the global average), according to the United Nations yearly study.

I’ve traveled alone in many parts of Indonesia and haven't really witnessed any crime. Just take normal precautions. Indonesia is a Muslim majority country, and outside of Bali the culture is very conservative, so it’s important to dress modestly. Terrorism is not a significant issue here and attitudes toward foreigners are generally welcoming.

The biggest safety risks are transportation and natural threats, like animals, mosquitoes, volcanoes, and earthquakes. I’d also stay away from motorbikes here unless you’re an experienced driver in Southeast Asia. However, one of my closest brushes with death in Indonesia was probably a boat trip in Sumatra where we ran into a bad storm.

Mosquito spray and bed nets are always a good idea, especially in the rainy season and outside of the city. Malaria is still a serious problem in West Papua and the Mentawai islands, as well as some parts of Kalimantan, Sumatra, and Sulawesi. You can find a helpful map of the main risk areas for malaria here . The malaria risk areas have shrunk quite a bit now, but there are still some places in Indonesia you may want to take anti-malarial pills.

There are many types of venomous snakes and other dangerous animals in Indonesia, but they're not common to see in the popular tourist areas, even if you go hiking.

Tanah Toraja traditional dress in Sulawesi

Indonesia is a very budget friendly travel destination, with  hostels available from 75k Rupiah ($5 USD) and private hotels from 150k . Meals are also cheap, costing about 15k to 75k Rupiah depending on location.

Transportation in Indonesia is generally by motorbike or car, and these can be rented, but hiring a driver is cheap and often preferable.

I'd recommend downloading the transportation apps  Grab and Go-Jek ; these are great for getting around in the cities, and you can also order food with them.

Indonesian People

Indonesian people are the nicest!  I even married one !

The country has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the world, and we’ve stayed in homestays all over Indonesia without any worry. The people are really friendly and welcoming.

If you travel outside of Bali, especially in remote parts of Java or Sulawesi, you’ll probably get lots of funny photo requests from the locals excited to see a rare ‘bule’ (foreigner).

For every island and province in Indonesia, there’s a unique culture to go with it. Some of the top cultural destinations in the country are Sumba,  Tana Toraja  (one of the world’s most unusual cultures), Wae Rebo (a remote mountain village in Flores), and of course Bali.

Bali  may be touristy, but it still has a lot of great culture to soak up. The Balinese language, dress, traditions, and architecture are still very intact and haven’t changed too much since Bali became popular with foreigners.

Toraja kids

Infrastructure

When you’re traveling in remote parts of Indonesia outside of Bali and the big cities, infrastructure may be limited.

Oftentimes that means no WiFi or air-conditioning (fan only), and sometimes it means washing yourself with a simple water scoop instead of a shower. On more remote islands (such as the Banyaks ), you may have no electricity at all except by generator in the evening.

Living without these daily luxuries takes some getting used to, but it’s worth it to see some of the best places off the beaten path in Indonesia (and not just Bali). The infrastructure will catch up over time as tourism continues to grow in new areas. For now, enjoy the wilderness experience for what it is!

Indonesian Food

Indonesia has a lot of great food, and the dishes are similar to what you’ll find in Malaysia and Singapore .

Some good things to try are Satay Ayam (chicken skewers), Rendang Sapi (spicy beef curry), Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Martabak (omelette pancake), and for dessert Pisang Goreng (fried bananas).

Don’t expect to find hardly any Western food outside of Bali (except for the occasional Pizza Hut or KFC in big cities), but that’s okay. You'll probably fall in love with the local food, and it's cheap!

Indonesian food is one of the great things about visiting (© Adobe)

Things To Do In Indonesia

There are so many amazing things to do in Indonesia, it's hard to know where to start.

Everyone goes to  Bali , which is an amazing island (don’t get me wrong!), but it’s been suffering from overtourism and overdevelopment for years.

If you branch out to the other  islands in Indonesia , you can see smoking volcanoes, sulfur lakes,  pink sand beaches , tropical rainforests, exotic wildlife, and so much more.

Indonesia is one of those countries where if you’re not exploring the outdoors, you’re doing it wrong.

Don’t waste any time in the cities, just get in nature as soon as possible! Of course you have the islands and beaches, but there are also all kinds of other scenery in Indonesia too.

From Sumatra to Papua, you can find a wide variety of lakes, mountains, caves, rainforests, giant boulders, sand dunes, and more.

Bali is famous for  its green rice terraces , but you can also see scenic crop terraces all over Java, Lombok, and many other islands. Check out the  Dieng Plateau  in central Java, or the steep Majalengka terraces in West Java!

You can explore a sparkling limestone cave at  Rammang Rammang  in Sulawesi, or  swim in a blue pool at the Rangko Cave in Flores.

One of these prehistoric caves in Sulawesi even has  the world’s oldest known cave art  made by humans, which we found completely fascinating!

Read More:  Best Things To Do In Indonesia

Lake Toba is the biggest volcanic lake in the world

The giant granite boulders of Belitung

Volcanoes In Indonesia

Indonesia has 400 volcanoes, and up to 130 of them are active — more than any other country in the world.

Most of the volcanoes in Indonesia are open to tourists for hiking, and at some of them (like Mount Bromo  in Java) you can even walk up to the edge of the smoking crater!

Where you have volcanoes, you also have plenty of volcanic lakes and hot springs!

Some of these hot springs are suitable for swimming, and others make for fantastic photos. The most famous volcanic lake in Indonesia is probably the Kawah Ijen  crater in East Java, which is pretty close to Bali.

Two other great spots to check out are  Kawah Putih  in West Java, and the three  lakes of Mount Kelimutu  in Flores.

Read More:  Best Hikes In Indonesia

Mount Bromo in Java

The smoking Bromo crater

Waterfalls In Indonesia

A lot of the best waterfalls in Indonesia are located in Sumatra and Java, but even the smaller islands like  Bali  and Lombok have some great ones too.

In fact, pretty much every island in this country has at least a few stunning waterfalls if you do a bit of exploring.

One of the biggest falls in Indonesia is the Ponot Waterfall in North Sumatra, which is a giant 3-step waterfall near the famous Lake Toba, and it has a height of more than 250 meters (820 feet)!

Read More:  Best Waterfalls In Indonesia

Curug Cimarinjung Waterfall in West Java

Wildlife In Indonesia

Indonesia has almost 20 percent of the world’s animal species, so there’s a lot of endemic wildlife to see here that can’t be found anywhere else.

You can watch the world’s biggest lizards on  Komodo Island , bug-eyed tarsiers at the  Tangkoko Reserve  in Sulawesi, wild orangutans at  Bukit Lawang  in Sumatra, and of course the famous macaques at the  Ubud Monkey Forest  in Bali.

Indonesia has some of the world’s most important rainforests, and sadly a lot of them are critically endangered because of rampant deforestation. In addition to the animals, which are amazing, you can see giant banyan trees and the world’s biggest flowers .

Indonesia is also part of the Coral Triangle, a tropical ocean wonderland with most of the world’s coral and fish species.

Needless to say, it’s a great place to go diving or snorkeling, and you can see all kinds of rare fish, colorful corals, sea turtles, manta rays, and if you’re lucky you may even get to swim with a whale shark!

We’ve had great success snorkeling in pretty much every part of Indonesia, but our top pick would probably be  Belitung island  in south Sumatra.

Orangutan viewing at Bukit Lawang is a highlight of Sumatra

Beaches In Indonesia

When people think of nice beaches in Asia, they think Maldives or Thailand , not Indonesia.

Indonesia beaches  are fantastic, but they tend to be underrated because a lot of the really good ones are hiding in remote places without easy access. On the bright side, that means you’re more likely to have them to yourself!

With some exploring, what you’ll find are the most amazing white sand beaches, dazzling  pink beaches , and black volcanic beaches, along with top quality surf spots, and occasionally some very photogenic cliffs, boulders, and shipwrecks.

Read More:  Best Beaches In Indonesia

Red Sand Beach at Labengki Island

Tanjung Tinggi Beach in Belitung

Landmarks In Indonesia

Two of the best landmarks to see in Indonesia are Borobudur Temple, which is the biggest Buddhist temple in the world, and Prambanan Temple , which looks kind of like the  Angkor Wat in Cambodia .

They’re both located in Yogyakarta city in central Java, and Borobudur is a popular spot for sunrise.

Most of Indonesia's photogenic temples are located in Bali. A few iconic Balinese temples you should check out are Uluwatu , Tanah Lot , and Ulun Danu Beratan .

In Java, the temples have been reconstructed from their old ruins (like Angkor Wat), but they’re still pretty fascinating.

For natural landmarks, check out Bali’s famous  Kelingking Cliff , or the iconic  Padar Island  viewpoint in Komodo.

Prambanan is one of Indonesia's best landmarks

Best Islands In Indonesia

Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands, so get to hopping! We've spent years exploring Indonesia, and still barely scratched the surface.

In Komodo or Raja Ampat, you can even stay on a comfy liveaboard boat and spend several days roaming the seas to your heart’s content.

There are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in this wild and wonderful country, and many of the best things to do in Indonesia are off the beaten path.

If you want a hint, start looking in Maluku, Sulawesi, and Sumatra. All of these islands have many, many spectacular scenic places that have never been seen by foreigners yet.

Read More:  Best Islands In Indonesia

Destinations

Pick a destination in Indonesia to start exploring!

Nusa Penida

Bali travel guide.

The best Indonesia tours & activities

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Indonesia Travel Guide

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Updated: 1st December 2021

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

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

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

In this article...

What to See in Indonesia

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

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

The top attractions in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indonesia UNESCO list

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

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

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

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

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

Unique places to visit in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Indonesia

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

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

Maya Villas Seminyak, Bali

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

Seraya Resort Komodo, Flores

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

TeraAilan Resort Raja Ampat

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

Karma Reef Gili Islands

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

Elephant Eco Lodge Sumatra

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

Pulau Ayer 1000 Islands, Java

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

Getting to Indonesia

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

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

Getting around Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

Indonesia visas and safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Insurance

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

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

Visas and Travel Warnings

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

UNITED KINGDOM | USA | AUSTRALIA | CANADA

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

Health in Indonesia

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

Indonesia travel costs

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

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

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

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

Exchanging Indonesia Rupiah

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

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

Tours of Indonesia

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

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

2 Day temple tour from Bali | From $260

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

8 Day Raja Ampat explorer | From $1640

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

Bali Mount Batur sunrise trek | From $57

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

3 Day Komodo tour from Labuan Bajo | From $340

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

Indonesia’s weather & climate

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

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

When to visit Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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Why is Indonesia worth visiting?

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

Is Indonesia cheap to visit?

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

Can I drink tap water in Indonesia?

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

Do I need a visa for traveling in Indonesia?

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

What language do they speak in Indonesia?

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

Do I need travel insurance for Indonesia?

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

Is Indonesia safe?

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

What power plug type does Indonesia have?

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

Why do people love Indonesia?

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

Travel to Indonesia

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

How to plan your trip to Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coastlines and beaches in Indonesia

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

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

Find the best beaches in Bali . 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food, culture and religion in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

Why you should travel to Indonesia

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

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

Safety and Travel Advice Indonesia 

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

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

Find out more about travel safety

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Daily Budget in Indonesia

Money in indonesia.

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Visiting Indonesia on a Budget

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

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

Why You Should Travel to Indonesia with a Water Bottle

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

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

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Festivals in Indonesia

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

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

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

What to Pack for Indonesia

Travel Security Belt

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

Microfiber Towel

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

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

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

‘Monopoly Deal’

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

Hanging Laundry Bag

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

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

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

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

For more safety tips for travelling Indonesia, you should:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Insurance for Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Requirements for Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel by Motorbike in Indonesia

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

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

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

Hitchhiking in Indonesia

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

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

Onwards Travel from Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Indonesia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Indonesia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Indonesia is a mesmerizing archipelago of diverse cultures, natural wonders, and breathtaking landscapes.

With over 17,000 islands stretching across Southeast Asia, Indonesia is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

From the ancient temples of Java to the pristine beaches of Bali, and the lush rainforests of Borneo to the vibrant markets of Jakarta, this country offers a rich tapestry of adventures for every traveler.

Indonesia is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences. Its cultural heritage is as diverse as its geography, with over 300 ethnic groups coexisting harmoniously.

From the majestic Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the intricate carvings of the Prambanan Temple, Indonesia’s ancient temples stand as testaments to its glorious past. Witnessing traditional ceremonies and vibrant festivals, such as the elaborate processions during Balinese Hindu celebrations, provides a glimpse into the nation’s spiritual and cultural roots.

Nature lovers will be enthralled by Indonesia’s stunning landscapes. The archipelago is home to several national parks, each offering a unique ecosystem and incredible biodiversity. For instance, Komodo National Park is famous for its eponymous dragons, the largest lizards on Earth, while the tropical rainforests of Sumatra are home to orangutans, tigers, and elephants.

Bali, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” is a destination that captivates visitors with its beauty and spirituality. Known for its iconic rice terraces, lush jungles, and stunning beaches, Bali offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure.

Discover hidden waterfalls, hike up volcanic peaks, or partake in yoga and meditation retreats that nurture the mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the island’s unique artistic heritage, witnessing traditional dance performances and exploring local art galleries.

Indonesia’s culinary scene is a gastronomic delight, with a wide array of flavors and influences. Indulge in the fiery spices of Padang cuisine, savor the aromatic flavors of Javanese dishes, or feast on fresh seafood in coastal regions.

The vibrant street food culture beckons with its tantalizing aromas and mouthwatering delicacies, offering a true taste of Indonesia’s culinary diversity.

The warmth and friendliness of the Indonesian people are legendary. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the remote villages of Flores, you’ll be greeted with smiles and genuine hospitality.

Engaging with the locals and learning about their way of life adds a deeper dimension to your travel experience, fostering connections that will stay with you long after you leave.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Indonesia in Asia .

Note: This guide to Indonesia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Bali Travel Tips

Indonesia map.

Use this map of Indonesia to get started with your travel planning:

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above Indonesia travel map.

Bali Solo Travel: How To Have An Amazing Time When Visiting Bali Alone

12 Best Flower Baths In Bali

Best & Worst Time To Travel To Bali

7 Day Bali Itinerary (With Map!)

Mount Agung Trekking: The Ultimate Guide

3 Day Ubud Itinerary (With Map!)

2-Week Bali Itinerary (Super Detailed!)

15 Best Surf & Yoga Retreats In Bali, Indonesia

15 Best Waterfalls Near Ubud, Bali (With Map!)

Asia Travel Tips

Traveling to Asia ? This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

Top 10 Vacation Destinations In Asia

5 Amazing Ways Solo Travel In Southeast Asia Changed Me

25 Best Places To Solo Travel In Asia

Top Indonesia Tours

Enjoy the best of Indonesia travel and tours through the following experiences.

• ️Nusa Penida by Private Boat: Snorkel, Swim with Mantas + Land Tour (from Kota Denpasar, Bali)
• Best of Ubud: Monkey Forest, Temple, Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Art Villages (from Ubud, Bali)
• ️Bali Instagram Tour: The Most Famous Spots – Private & All-Inclusive (from Tanjung Benoa, Bali)
• 1-Day Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour (from Surabaya or Malang, East Java)
• Highlights of Jakarta City Tours (from Jakarta, West Java)

Click here for a full list of Indonesia tours .

Indonesia Hotels

Click here to browse the best hotels in Indonesia!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. It’s currently set to Ubud, Bali, though you can easily change it to your destination of choice:

Indonesia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Indonesian tour. When visiting Indonesia — or any other destination in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Indonesia itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Indonesia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Indonesia .

Q) What is the best month to travel to Indonesia?

Ultimately, the best month to travel to Indonesia depends on your personal preferences and the specific activities and destinations you have in mind. If you’re primarily interested in beach activities and outdoor adventures, the dry season (May to September) is generally more favorable. However, if you’re flexible and prepared for occasional rain showers, Indonesia’s natural beauty and cultural experiences can be enjoyed year-round.

Q) How many days in Indonesia is enough?

For a visit focused on popular tourist destinations like Bali and its surrounding islands like Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, a minimum of 5 to 7 days would allow you to experience the highlights, including iconic temples, stunning beaches, and cultural sites.

Q) Is it safe to travel to Indonesia?

According to Travel Safe-Abroad , there is a medium safety risk when visiting Indonesia.

Q) Is Indonesia expensive or cheap?

Indonesia is generally considered an affordable destination for travelers. The cost of living in Indonesia is lower compared to many Western countries, which makes it a budget-friendly choice for tourists. However, the prices can vary depending on the region you visit and the level of comfort and luxury you seek.

Q) How much does a trip to Indonesia cost?

Overall, a basic daily budget for a backpacker or budget traveler in Indonesia can range from $30 to $50, which would cover accommodation, food, transportation, and some activities. For mid-range travelers, a daily budget of $50 to $100 should provide more comfortable accommodation, dining at mid-range restaurants, and additional activities. Luxury travelers should budget upwards of $100 per day or more, depending on their desired level of comfort and indulgence.

Q) Can you drink tap water in Indonesia?

In general, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Indonesia. The quality of tap water can vary across different regions and cities, and it may not meet the standards for safe consumption.

What would you add to this Indonesia travel guide?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quick Navigation

How many days in Indonesia

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

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

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

When is the best month to plan your trip to Indonesia

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

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

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

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

3 week Indonesia itinerary Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I’ll leave that decision up to you.

Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Bali

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Seminyak

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

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

Things to do in Seminyak or Canggu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Ubud

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

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

Where to stay in Ubud

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Ubud

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

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

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

Day 4: Ubud

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

I recommend getting a private driver for the day

Things to do

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Ubud to Gili islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do on day 5

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

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

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

Day 6: Gili Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Gili Islands to Lombok

And so, your 3 week Indonesia itinerary continues.

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Lombok

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Lombok

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

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

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

Day 8: Kuta, Lombok

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

Things to do in Kuta, lombok

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

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

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

Day 9: Lombok to Flores Island (Komodo Islands)

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

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

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

Where to stay in Flores

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

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

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

Things to do in Labuan Bajo

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

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

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

Komodo liveaboard options

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

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

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

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

Day 10-11: Komodo Liveaboard

Day 12: return to lubuan bajo.

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

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

Day 13: Komodo Islands to Uluwatu, Bali

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Uluwatu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Uluwatu

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

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

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

Day 14: Uluwatu

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

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

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

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

Day 15-20: Uluwatu and beyond

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

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

Here are my recommendations for other things to do.

Option 1: Explore the Kelimutu Crater Lakes in Flores

Time needed: 2 nights

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

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

Option 2: Visit Mount Bromo in Java

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

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

Option 2: Nusa Penida, Bali

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

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

Option 3: Munduk, Bali

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

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

Day 21: The end of your 3 weeks in Indonesia

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

What to pack for Indonesia

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

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

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

Is Indonesia expensive to visit

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

Do I need a visa for Indonesia

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

This has now changed!

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Best time to visit indonesia.

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

How long to spend in Indonesia

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

Final thoughts on 3 weeks Indonesia itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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This Indonesia travel guide has the following sections below. It also covers entry requirements (visa and covid 19 vaccinations and tests), which are changing frequently. The information is being updated and is current as of January 2023. Please check the current restrictions before you depart for Indonesia.

Indonesia in Numbers

Covid-19 restrictions, when to visit.

• Top 5 Things in Indonesi a

Transportation

Accommodation, overall tips, indonesia overall rating.

It is rare that one country, even as large as Indonesia, can boast of so many advantages. 17,000 islands with unique cultures, food and nature. Sunny and warm weather. The spiritual and beautiful Bali including the Gilis. Stunning Lombok, a Bali from 10-20 years ago. The Komodo dragons and the Padar island. Orangutans in Sumatra or Kalimantan (Borneo). Traditional villages and Tana Toraja on Sulawesi. Quiet Sumbawa. Amazing Raja Ampat.

Excellent transportation with Air Asia, Lion, Batik and Super Air Jet linking all islands. Amazing food varying across the islands. Friendly people across cultures and religions.

It is far away from Europe or the U.S. but those long flights will pay off. Guaranteed.

Population: 280 million

Capital: Jakarta

Language: Bahasa Indonesia (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Exchange rate (January 2023): USD 1 = IDR 15,250, EUR 1 = 16,500, GBP 1 = 18,500

Electricity : standard European 220V, standard European plugs

The Covid regulations are changing quickly so this Indonesia travel guide is being updated regularly with new changes. The information here is current as of January 2023.

As of January 202 3 in the Jakarta airport, you have to show the proof of vaccinations. If you have two vaccinations and a booster, you will NOT have to quarantine or show a negative Covid-19 test.

Peduli Lindungi app

In summary, my Peduli Lindungi app was NOT working, but my electronic vaccination certificates were accepted without ANY issues. A detailed description of my arrival process in the Jakarta airport (CGK) is below.

The Indonesia government’s Peduli Lindungi app is mentioned by some airlines as required prior to landing. In my experience when doing it from abroad before my flight to Jakarta, I did download it from the iPhone’s App Store successfully but was unable to register.

This has proven to be NO problem. I arrived at the Jakarta airport and was asked by an immigration officer standing in the hallway (NOT at the visa-on-arrival counter, VOA) for the Peduli Lindungi app. I showed him that I downloaded that on my phone, but was unable to register. No more questions, a smile and a polite invitation to continue to the Covid-19 counter.

Next you will go to a Covid-19 counter, where a polite lady will write down your passport details and and request the vaccination certificates. I showed her my THREE (2 vaccinations plus booster) electronic certificates on my phone. That was accepted immediately. I did not have to show the paper copies of the certificates, even though I did have them as a backup.

The lady issued a confirmation slip that I had shown my covid vaccination certificates. Important: do NOT throw it away, you will need it in 1 minute at the visa-on-arrival counter.

Overall, a polite and non-stressful process which was completed in 5 minutes.

Most nationalities need a visa-on-arrival (VOA) or an advance visa.

The visa on arrival process was straightforward and efficient for me. After showing my Covid vaccination certificates, you turn left to the VOA booths. When I was there, all of them were occupied and the tourist lines were short.

They will ask you for your passport and a confirmation slip from the vaccination lady. Then they will ask for a payment of IDR500,000 ($33). You can pay either in IDR cash or with a credit card. Your card will be swiped, payment confirmed and 60 seconds later you will receive your visa in your passport.

Extending your visa takes more time and effort if applying directly, especially in the tourist areas. Use one of many visa offices instead. For $20 more they will usually speed up the process and reduce the amount of additional required paperwork.

Also, you will have to fill out a customs form on arrival . When approaching the arrival area you will see signs with the customs QR code. Please scan it and do the download (free strong airport wifi is available in this area).

Fill out the form and show your phone screen when exiting the arrivals area.

In case of any problem, there is a desktop computer terminal. You do not have to download anything but input your details into the form. Print out a confirmation slip that you have successfully completed that (there is a free small printer next to the desktop). In case of any questions, there is an immigration officer who will help.

July to October is best as the dry season. However, the raining and dry seasons are changing with the rainy season starting early in 2022. Nobody knows when it will end but I was told a few times that April should be dry again.

Overall, it depends on where you are going. Bali, Gili islands, Lombok, Flores, Sumbawa and Sumba were safe for us in 2022. We did not have any unpleasant encounters, no (attempted) robbery, no thefts.

We had also planned to visit West Papua in Jayapura. On the ground we were advised in no uncertain terms NOT to visit due to the current safety and security concerns. Please check the safety there when you are planning to visit.

Maybe we were over cautious to miss Jayapura as few other Indonesia travel guides include a similar warning. Please double check the West Papua circumstances before your arrival.

However, beyond the humans, please protect yourself from mosquitos and other aggressive insects . For whatever reason, their bites did not want to heal that quickly for us. Please use a mosquito net when offered and use a repellent overnight. Strong air condition flow overnight is also recommended.

In October-November 2022 the bees were a problem in Flores around Ruteng and Mount Inerie in particular. As requested by some guides, tourists going up the Inerie volcano should not wear red or yellow, as bees are aggressive and attacking unprovoked.

Important. If you get bitten by mengenai black bumblebees several times, you will likely have a strong allergic reaction and you will HAVE to go to hospital for a check up and potential treatment.

Please do NOT ignore those bites. To verify, mention mengenai bites to a Flores local and watch their reaction.

Top 5 Things in Indonesia

(1) Visit the spiritual and beautiful Bali

(2) Go to Lombok, a Bali from 10-20 years ago

(3) See the Komodo dragons and the impressive islands around (e.g., Padar island)

(4) Meet the orangutans on Sumatra (Medan) or Kalimantan

(5) Marvel at the traditional villages and the unique Tana Toraja on Sulawesi

No Indonesia travel guide would be complete without a map itinerary.

This is a 3-4 week itinerary not exceeding the usual visa-on-arrival (VOA) length of 30 days . A mix of volcanos, rice fields, history (Bali temples, hobbit man on Flores) and the Komodo dragons and snorkelling or diving.

You could also do it in a different route. From Lombok go to Sumbawa and then Flores, and do Bali at the end. However, crossing Sumbawa overland adds 4-5 days. Secondly, the island is very hot, arid and with little tourist infrastructure. On the positive side, you would be one of the very few tourists there, and you would be greeted a proverbial million times a day.

If you decide to do the overland option. That would involve three steps : (1) ferry from Lombok (1 hour), (2) buses overland to Bima (2-3 days), and (3) Ferry from Bima to Labuan Bajo (8-9 hours). You can stop by on the Moyo island on the way.

Destination guides

For this itinerary, the following individual Indonesia travel guides will be helpful:

How to book and what to expect on a Komodo tour.

Go to Riung (Flores) for a completely private boat tour with a different feel than Komodo.

Visit a traditional Ngada village and witness a non-touristy chief’s house inauguration ceremony in Bena Traditional Village (Flores) .

How to travel around and how much to pay for shuttles and taxis in Labuan Bajo Taxi Prices .

What are the options for a Mt Rinjani (Lombok) Hike ?

Visit Tetebatu (Lombok) , a traditional village with rice fields, monkeys and waterfalls.

(3) gili islands

Plan to your trip in How to get to Gili islands .

How to travel around the island in Bali Taxi and Ferry Prices .

Take part in Body Cleansing Ceremony (Bali) , which will leave you rejuvenated.

On all visited islands (Java, Bali, Lombok, Flores), transportation is excellent: planes, (shared) taxis, some long-distance buses and local minibuses or bemo are abundant.

You will probably arrive in Jakarta, Denpasar or Lombok. There are frequent connections to all islands. Denpasar is especially good as it covers both the eastern (Flores, Sumbawa, Sumba, Maluku, West Papua), central (Sulawesi and Java) and western islands (Kalimantan, Sumatra).

Unfortunately, there is currently no direct flight from Lombok to Labuan Bajo on Flores.

On Bali you will probably travel in private or shared taxis or shuttle buses. As there are fewer tourists in Lombok , taxis are the main transportation mode there. In Flores or Sumbawa where there are still fewer tourists (especially outside of Labuan Bajo), private taxis, local buses or local shuttle services (Gunung Mas) are mainly used.

As a cultural experience, please take a local bus at least once. In Flores you will travel with chickens and cockerels, 20kg sacks or rice or sweet potatoes, tables, boxes of kitchen tiles, and other cargo. And everybody will greet you with a broad smile.

No vehicles on the Gili islands so walking, biking or taking a horse-drawn cart.

Private ferries and fastboats have regular services in the tourist areas (e.g., Lombok-Gili-Bali).

Public ferries connect all islands but may be travelling only once or twice a week. When taking a public ferry (e.g., from Sumbawa to Flores), consider buying a VIP ticket. A $3 surcharge will offer significantly more space and much less noise.

Widely available across the whole spectrum from dorms to luxury at similar levels as the tourist areas in Thailand, Malaysia, Laos or Cambodia.

Hostels, homestays, guest houses, hotels and luxury accommodations usually offer good standard and value as the competition is fierce.

Indonesian Food

This is one of the most memorable parts of any Indonesia travel guide. Even though not as spicy and versatile as the Thai, Vietnamese or Indian cuisine, you are not going to forget the freshly-barbecued snapper or grouper on your Komodo or Riung boat, or in one of many fish night markets.

Excellent and varying. Given Indonesia has 17,000 islands, sea is never far away and the seafood is fresh and excellent. On the Komodo or Riung boat tours in Flores you will feast on fish caught by the boat staff 30 minutes earlier. Snapper, grouper, crab, lobster are excellent and the fish night markets are outstanding (e.g., Labuan Bajo).

Breakfast in tourist accommodations will usually include the inevitable banana pancake or the local nasi goreng (friend rice usually with egg) plus some freshly cut fruit (papaya, pineapple, banana, lime) and a freshly-squeezed juice.

Lunch and dinner have a variety of rice (nasi) or noddle (mie) dishes with excellent beef Rendang originating from Java, chicken (ayam), fish (ikan) and vegetables.

Vegetarians will have no problems with amazing tofu, tempeh and vegetables served in many different ways everywhere.

The Indonesian coffee (kopi) is stronger than Starbucks and good pretty much everywhere . International and local soft drinks are even in the smallest villages. Frequently served with ice, but that did not create any stomach problems for us.

Alcoholic beverages widely available in the tourist areas.

Wifi widely available in hotels and hostels, speeds can vary. Working (including Zoom, etc.) is usually possible in most accommodations. It is usually free.

Getting a local SIM is quick with XL or INDOSAT offering the broadest coverage across all Indonesia. In addition, there are some providers with good local service (e.g., TSEL on Lombok). Packages vary across providers, shop around for the current best offer.

In addition to the standard categories in this Indonesia travel guide, some additional tips. Please do not make a similar mistake and run out of IDR cash in northern Lombok as we did!

(1) Bring cash. USD and EUR have the best exchange rates. Indonesia is a cash economy and foreign currency is NOT widely accepted. ATMs are available in tourist areas but less so in the off the beaten path (e.g., north Lombok).

Many banks in local areas do NOT exchange foreign currency. There are some private “money changers”. In my experience, the best rates were in the airports, which is usually not the case in other countries. The local banks or private money changers in local areas (e.g., Lombok) would offer IDR1,000 – 2,000 less per USD1, a huge spread.

On Gili Air the best exchange rate place is just across the harbor when you face the main street on the left hand side. The second best one (IDR100 less per $1) 5 seconds further down on the right hand side.

In Amed (north Bali) the best exchange rate place is immediately when you leave your boat on the right hand side.

When in Ubud there many private money changers on the main street offering the same exchange rate , open late until at least 8pm.

If you are in Labuan Bajo (for the Komodo tour), there are few exchange boots on the main street next to the harbor, one next to Starbucks. All offering similar competitive rates.

The exchange process is straightforward. Go to cash teller, who will change the money on the spot. No special tourist forms to fill. No passport required.

Cash is predominantly used with credit cards more popular at the high-end hotels.

Excellent price-value country. A typical hostel or homestay costs around $10-20 with mid-range hotels $15-50. $100 will usually get a stunning villa in the jungle or the rice fields.

A local meal will be $1-2 and $5-10 in mid-range restaurants in more touristy places (e.g., Bali).

Highly recommended.

So much variety in one country efficiently linked by flights, ferries, buses and taxis. Stunning natural scenery, outstanding snorkelling and diving, excellent food, safe and inexpensive.

Beyond this overall travel guide to Indonesia, below are all additional articles about transportation and individual destinations.

ALL POSTS ABOUT INDONESIA

Destinations

Other countries?

Planning your next trip to any location is always great. You day dream about the places you will visit, food you will enjoy, and attractions to see.

Beyond this Indonesia travel guide, those are our hard-earned tips how to avoid crowds and where to go:

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

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

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

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

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

1. Determine Your Itinerary

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

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

2. Choose Which Islands To Visit

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

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

READ: 10 MOST INCREDIBLE HOTELS IN BALI

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

READ: 18 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO SEE IN LOMBOK

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

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

Komodo Islands

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

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

3. Consider Options That Fit Your Budget

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

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

4. Learn More About Indonesia

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

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

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

5. Check The Safety Measures

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

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

6. Travel Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

Are You Ready?

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

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

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

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Indonesia Travel Guide

Indonesia is probably one of the most diverse countries in the world. With more than 13,000 islands, there is something for every kind of traveler in this paradise. Aside from all the wonders of nature, welcoming people, delicious food, affordable accommodation and sunsets that take your breath away make this a popular destination for long-term travelers and vacationers alike.

If you’re planning to visit this beautiful country, use this guide to help plan your perfect trip to Indonesia.

Travel Guide Contents

Important Info    |    Best Time to Visit    |    Things to Do    |    What to Eat    |    Typical Budget

Travel Tips    |    What to Pack    |    Indonesia Articles    |    Book Now

Important Information About Indonesia

Indonesia at a Glance: When most people think about traveling to Indonesia, they usually consider Bali first. However, the island nation has so much more than it’s Insta-famous crowing jewel. From the volcanoes and temples, to the waterfalls, sandy shores and lush rice fields, to the amazing wildlife in Sumatra’s jungles, Indonesia is a vast county with plenty of diversity to explore.

Most popular places to visit in Indonesia:

Bali – This is probably Indonesia’s most famous island. It is sometimes crowded with travelers during high season, but you can’t help but appreciate how beautiful it is.

Gili Islands – If you love diving, the Gili islands are the place to go. There are excellent snorkeling and scuba facilities, as well as a great nightlife scene.

East Java – Just west of Bali, the island of Java is completely different from Bali and not as crowded. If your up for outdoor adventures, then East Java is where you should go! With load of waterfalls, caves, and mountains to explore it’s unlike anywhere else in Indonesia.

Komodo National Park on Flores Island – See the Komodo dragons up close in their only known natural habitat in this famed national park.

Raja Ampat Islands – This archipelago off the northwest tip of Papua is known for it’s expanse of marine diversity and coral reefs. Not to mention the stunning white sand beaches that boarder these jungle-covered islands.

Currency in Indonesia: Indonesian Rupiah | 2019 Conversion Rate: 100,000 RPH = $7.12 USD

Tipping in Indonesia: It is not mandatory to tip in Indonesia. Hotel services often are inclusive of tax and service charge. Restaurants also include a service charge to their bill. Tipping a taxi driver by rounding up your fare is also reasonable.

 Language & Helpful Phrases: Indonesian 

Hello = Halo

Thank you = Terima kasih

Delicious = Lezat

Bathroom =  Kamar mandi

How much? = Berapa banyak?

Too expensive = Terlalu mahal

Don’t want = Tidak mau

Religion and Culture: Because of its central location between the Middle East, South Asia, and Far East, Indonesia has become influenced with several religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. This resulted in a cultural mixture. Islam is the main religion of the country, however the island of Bali celebrates it’s own religion of Balinese Hinduism.

Transportation around Indonesia: Transportation in Indonesia varies depending on which island you are on. You can use the 12Go website to learn about the schedules of trains, boats or buses ahead of time. For taxis, the Blue Bird Taxi App is a must download so you can easily get around from one place to another. And if you are in Bali, you can use the Gojek app for more convenient motorbike taxies. For longer distances, flying is the most reasonable option.

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

Climate in indonesia.

Indonesia has a tropical climate with year-round temperatures staying pretty stable due to it’s location near the equator.

Dry season: May to September

Wet season: October to April

Peak season for tourists is during the dry season.

Times to avoid traveling in Indonesia:

Avoid going to the Nusa Tenggara region during the wet season as it is more prone to flooding.

Are you planning on heading to Bali? We’ve broken down the very best times to visit Bali in an in-depth guide so the hard work is done for you!

Major Festivals in Indonesia

Ramadan, May to June: You will often find a lot of restaurants and stores closed during this time so make sure to book your transportation and accommodation beforehand. (This doesn’t apply to the island of Bali.)

Independence/National day, August: This is the biggest festival in Indonesia. Often, you will find a grand parade before the President in the country’s capital of Jakarta.

Nyepi, March: This is the Balinese New Year. During this time, almost everything is closed in Bali and everyone is fasting or meditating.

*These festivals follow the Lunar calendar, so the exact dates vary each year

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Top Things to Do in Indonesia

Bike through rice fields in bali.

Learn about the local life and immerse yourself in the “real Bali”. Go on a biking tour to the countryside and stop at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces early in the morning, eat breakfast at a buffet with a view of Mount Batur and bike through quiet roads, small villages, dirt paths, and rice fields.

Hike to the Top of an Active Volcano

See the most beautiful sunrise of your life when you hike up Mt. Batur in Bali, or Mt. Bromo in Java.

See the Komodo Dragons Up Close

Komodo National Park is the only place where you can get a glimpse of the largest lizard in the wild. Weekday admissions are cheaper at 150,000 IDR. 

Go SCUBA diving

If you want to explore more of Indonesia, consider doing a liveaboard in Komodo or Raja Ampat. You’ll see some of the best dive sights in the world!

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

If you love food like us, you will most definitely have fun and learning how to cook Balinese-style cuisine in a cooking class. 

Find Paradise on the Gili Islands

Just a few hours away from Bali, the Gili islands make a nice side trip for your Indonesian travels. Gili Meno is the smallest island of the three where sea turtles frolic at Turtle Point. Gili Trawangan, better known to locals as “Gili T,” is the largest island known for it’s nightlife.

Insider Tip: Just beware that the beaches on the Gilis are full of coral, which makes it difficult to walk out very far without wearing shoes.

Best Food to Eat in Indonesia

You probably know this already but Indonesia is a foodie heaven. With its Dutch history and spices, the country’s cuisines are out of this world! From street foods to fancy restaurant dishes, you will want to try it all. 

Here are some of our favorites:

Gudeg: This dish features the jackfruit as its main ingredient. It is a little bit sweet and a great option for all the vegetarians looking for some tasty Indonesian cuisine.

Satay: These juicy meat skewers are cooked over coals and served with rice cakes. You can easily find these in street vendors.

Babi Guling: This is a staple cuisine in Bali. Before this pork dish is roasted, it is soaked in coconut water and rubbed with spices including ginger, garlic, turmeric, and chili.

Rawon: This is a beef stew from East Java. With its deep, black color and nutty flavor, this dish is something you’ll want to keep eating.

Siomay: This is Indonesia’s version of Chinese dim sum. It is essentially a fish dumpling often served with eggs, cabbage, and steamed potato.

Buntut: Buntut is an Oxtail soup that’s popular in Indonesia. This is a very yummy and tasty dish that you wish you could eat every day.

Typical Budget for Indonesia

Indonesia has pretty affordable homestays and luxurious villas for rent. It’s up to you how cheap or how expensive you want your trip to be. If you’re a backpacker, you can easily go backpacking in Indonesia on a budget.

Good to know: Save money on transportation costs by renting a motorbike. Most motorbike rentals in Bali cost around $5 per day. 

How Much to Budget in Indonesia Per Day

Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $25 – $30 could be a sufficient budget. 

Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $50 – $100 per day.  

Dorm bed = $6-10

Budget room = $15-25

Mid-range = $30

Luxury hotel = $60+

Street food = $2-$3

Mid-range restaurant = $5

Fancy restaurant = $15

Local beer = $1.86

Motorbike Rental = $5/day

Public Ferry = $5

8-Hour Bus Trip = $5

Flights within Indonesia = $33-$50

Balinese Massage = $10 

Cooking class = $24+

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park = $15

Mt. Batur hike  = $33-$60

Liveaboard Diving Trip = starts at $220

Balinese Countryside Tour = $30

Responsible Travel Tips for Indonesia

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to travel more responsibly . Here are some easy ways you can travel better in Indonesia.

1. Eat local

Contribute to the small local businesses more than the eateries with a lot of visitors. Often, this is where the most authentic and tastiest dishes are.

2. Shop local

Whenever possible, shop at local food markets and buy souvenirs from local artisans.

3. Be wary of animal attractions

Thoroughly research attractions with animals and make a well-informed decision.

4. Dealing with begging

Please avoid giving money to local beggars across Indonesia as this will encourage the practice and perpetuate the cycle. If you want to give gifts, it is best to give these to the leader of the community for distribution. 

5. Bring your own bag

Always bring reusable bags whenever you go to markets and convenience stores to prevent any waste and help reduce plastic.

Related Article: 36 Responsible Travel Tips

What to Pack for Indonesia

As always, the best thing to keep in mind for any travel is to pack light and only bring the necessities. This way, you can easily go from place to place without hauling tons of baggage. Bali, with it’s separate religious customs from that of the rest of the country has a casual island vibe and it is perfectly reasonable to wear a bikini and flip flops anywhere you go.

If you will be visiting any of the islands outside of Bali, show your respect for the Muslim religion by dressing modestly and keeping shoulders and legs covered if you are female.

Here are some Indonesia-specific items we’d recommend packing:

bug repellant (solids are the way to go)

reef-safe sunscreen

insulated water bottle

reusable straw & reusable bag ( say no to single-use plastic! )

loose, lightweight clothes & layers

microfiber quick-dry towel

Chaco sandals (we’d recommend these instead of hiking boots as they are less bulky and are good for walking through water) or good walking shoes

Indonesia Articles

Find all kinds of information on traveling to Indonesia to help you create the perfect itinerary. From scuba diving guides to amazing things to do in Bali you can’t miss, we got it all!

Best Time to Visit Bali: When to Go & When to Avoid!

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9 Epic Things to Do in Java, Indonesia + 1 Week Itinerary

With volcanoes, waterfalls, and ancient temples, traveling around the Indonesian island of Java is an unforgettable adventure. We’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Java, plus we’re sharing insider tips and a perfect 1-week Java itinerary so all the planning is done for you!

Mount Bromo Tour: Sunrise at Indonesia’s Most Famous Volcano

Indonesia has plenty of volcanoes, but amongst the most spectacular is Mount Bromo, which is located in East Java. Arranging a Mount Bromo tour for sunrise will be one of the highlights of your trip to Java… if you know what to expect and are prepared, that is! We’re sharing...

Best Temples in Yogyakarta: Borobudur & Prambanan Guide

One of the best things to do in Yogyakarta is to visit the two most famous temples that are located just outside the city. We’re sharing exactly what to expect when you visit both Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple as well as some insider tips!

18 Fun Things to Do in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is known for its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, ancient history, traditional arts, and epic adventures. With lots of charm and plenty to do, Jogja (as the locals call it) should definitely be on your radar if you’re traveling to Java. We’ve put together a super informative guide packed...

Kawah Ijen Crater Sunrise Hike + Blue Flame

Volcano + acidic lake + blue flame combination makes the Ijen Crater hike a bucket list experience that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Seriously, there isn’t anywhere in the world quite like it. We’re sharing tips about our Kawah Ijen Crater sunrise hike and how you can do it...

Visit Malang’s Colorful Rainbow Village: Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan

These colorful villages in the middle of Malang on the island of Java may seem out of place. Kampung Warna Warni is not only super fun to explore, but it has an interesting backstory, and by visiting this rainbow village, you are directly giving back to a community that needs...

Essential Guide to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (+Insider Tips!)

If you’re heading to East Java, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a must-visit destination! At the base of the canyon, you’ll be surrounded by nearly 360 degrees of waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. We’re sharing exactly how to get to Tumpak Sewu, what to bring and where to stay near Indonesia’s...

Amed, Bali: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise that’s still off the beaten path, Amed, Bali should be on your radar. This sleepy fishing village is not yet a staple on every Bali itinerary, so you’ll be able to get a glimpse into the “real” authentic Bali and enjoy the...

Diving in Indonesia: The Best Liveaboards for Every Budget

With Liveaboard, you can experience diving in Indonesia in an entirely unique way. In this article, we will walk you through the basics of participating in a Liveaboard dive trip and suggest some of the best Liveaboard experiences in Indonesia for every budget.

16 Things to Do in Lombok, Indonesia as a Responsible Traveler

In this guest post, travel experts from Gemtrack helped us round up some exciting things to do in Lombok, Indonesia. Most of which have some component of sustainability or community outreach making this the perfect travel guide for the responsible traveler.

11 Unique Things to Do in Flores, Indonesia

Go off the beaten path to find unique things to do in Flores, Indonesia and explore the unexplored. This guide includes travel tips, getting around, & more.

Komodo Liveaboard: Ultimate Diving Experience in Indonesia

Imagine scuba diving among manta rays and sea turtles, then relaxing under the sun… If this sounds like a dream, you should consider booking a liveaboard for your next vacation! And Komodo National Park is just the place to do it! We’re sharing our experience with Dragon Dive Komodo so...

Romance in Ubud: Komaneka Bisma Resort

If you’re looking for romance in Ubud, Bali, look no further than the Komaneka at Bisma Resort. With a picture-perfect infinity pool, rice terrace views and impeccable service, we had an incredible anniversary stay at this beautiful and luxurious resort.

30 Amazing Things To Do in Bali You Can’t Miss

Bali is a favorite vacation spot of many travelers. With a rich culture, iconic volcanos, picturesque beaches and food that everyone can enjoy, it’s not hard to fall in love with Bali. And don’t worry, even though this is a popular destination, there are still plenty of things to do...

34 Bali Pictures That Will Make You Want to Visit Right Now

The jungles and beaches, tasty food, kind people, and diverse wildlife make Bali a destination we think would make just about anybody fall in love. Take a look at these pictures and you may just be convinced to start packing your bags!

How Much to Budget for One Week in Bali?

Our time in Bali and Gili T island was an incredible 11 days. We were able to experience the culture, taste the cuisine, and tour the beautiful landscape. Find out how we did it all under $45 a day.

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Book Your Trip to Indonesia Now!

Here are some helpful links for booking your trip to Indonesia…

To find the best airline deals: Skyscanner

Booking a rental car: Rentalcars.com

Finding tours in Indonesia: Get Your Guide

Don’t you dare travel without this!

• Indonesia Tours
• Indonesia Travel Guides

Indonesia Travel Guide - Travel Insights and Tips

Traveling to Indonesia? Our detailed Indonesia insights, blogs and travel tips will help you plan the best trip.

Been dreaming of spending days on the Indonesian beaches or rushing around the vibrant streets of Jakarta? You have come to the right place with our complete Indonesia Travel Guide. Famed for its extreme and beautiful hiking trails in Bali , and mighty volcanos , Indonesia has long been a popular destination among tourists.

From swinging on the iconic swing at Gili Trawangan to discovering the many attractions in Lombok , from visiting orangutans in Borneo to chasing waterfalls in Sumatra, there is something to suit every travel style in Indonesia.

With so many places to explore, it can be difficult to determine how many days to spend in Indonesia . We recommend spending at least two weeks to truly explore Indonesia . During a 14-day trip, you visit the amazing sites in Prambanan, explore caves in Java and trek volcanoes in Jomblang.

July to September is the best time to plan your holiday in Indonesia. The weather is pleasantly dry and warm during these months. The skies are clear blue and island hopping is absolutely amazing during such times. Bali and Jakarta are the most lively destinations to visit at this time. You can find out more in our article on the best time to visit Indonesia .

Top Destinations in Indonesia

Discover the highlights of Indonesia.

Conquer the Hiking Trails in Bali

If you are looking to work up a sweat and conquer a mountain that holds a special cultural meaning, head to the outstanding island of Bali and hike Mount Batur. The most popular time to hike is early in the morning to catch the sunrise from the summit. It is just a four-hour round trip hike, but the summit of Mount Batur offers unforgettable views. View Tours

Explore the Volcanoes in Java

Want to experience the thrill of standing on active volcanos and exploring the communities and landscapes that thrive around these slumbering giants? Head onto the eight-day volcanos of East Java tour and hike not one, not two, but three mighty volcanos. Check out the UNESCO World Heritage sites in this area, such as Borobudur. View Tours

Relax on Beaches in Flores Islands

There are a lot of amazing beaches to choose from in Indonesia, but the best are in the Flores Islands. Also home to Komodo National Park, you can relax in the morning before cruising to the next island on the turquoise sea or beach around the coastline. Add a nice beach holiday to your itinerary while planning a trip to Indonesia. View Tours

What to do in Indonesia

Read all about the top things to do in Indonesia.

12 Things To Do in Jakarta

As the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is a sprawling, culturally-diverse city that is always humming and buzzing with activity. Whether you’re looking for a bit of luxury or want to learn some history, there are so many things to do in Jakarta &mdash ...Read more

13 Fun Things to Do in Ubud

Having gained fame as a setting for the film Eat, Pray, Love; Ubud is recognized by many as Bali’s cultural heart. A flourishing crafts center boasting hundreds of shops and studios selling everything from antique wood carvings to locally-made jewel ...Read more

Pura Tanah Lot: The Sea Temple

The coastal temple Pura Tanah Lot is located in the southern part of Bali, North West of popular southern destinations like Kuta and Seminyak. It is vastly known as a destination for epic photography. This cultural icon is among the seven sea temples loca ...Read more

Lembongan Island: Day Trip from Bali

Lembongan Island is a small, lush strip of land set off Bali’s southeast coast. It is one of a trio of islands made up of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and compact Nusa Ceningan. The Badung Strait separates the three islands from Bali. On Lembongan B ...Read more

Diving in Indonesia: 15 Best Spots

Scuba diving in Indonesia is incredibly special. With one of the most extensive coastlines in the world, stretching from the Pacific Ocean in the west to the Indian Ocean in the east, there are so many options when it comes to scuba diving in this Southea ...Read more

Indonesia at a Glance

Quick facts about Indonesia.

Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia. Located on the island of Java, the city is a melting pot of culture, identities, and architecture. This is due to Indonesia’s vast and varied history with many different countries seeking to colonize or invade throughout the centuries.

1,904,569 km². Indonesia is the largest archipelagic state in the world and the 15th largest country by area. As it is predominantly island-based, the best way to travel is by boat or plane.

+62. If you’re calling within the Jakarta area, add the regional code, 21 after the country code followed by the phone number.

Indonesia uses the Indonesian rupiah. You can find ATMs throughout the major cities and tourist towns. Still, carrying some cash for transport and meals is a good idea.

The main international airport in Indonesia is Soekarno Hatta International Airport. It is located about 20 kilometers away from central Jakarta. CODE: CGK CLOSEST CITY: JAKARTA

As a tourist, you can visit Indonesia for up to 30 days on a basic tourist visa. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport. This is normally enough time to visit all the main sites, relax, and move on within South East Asia, or down to Australia which is the usual Gap Year route.

The official language of Indonesia is Indonesian. Though spoken by around 90 percent of the population, it is the first language of only around 20 percent of people here. There are many regional languages and dialects across Indonesia, with Javanese (Jawa) being the first language for 30 percent of the population.

112 is the local emergency contact number for police, fire, and ambulance services.

Indonesia is home to one of the largest populations of young people in the world. In fact, there are 165 million Indonesians under the age of 30.

When to visit Indonesia

Read the below travel guides to find the best time to visit Indonesia.

• Jan Avg Daily: 30 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 30 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 27 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

With an almost entirely tropical climate, the best time to visit Indonesia is during its dry season, from April to October, when the temperatures are warm and the rainfall is minimal. The volcanoes, beaches, jungles, cultural treasures and a reputation fo ...Read more

Indonesia in January: All You Need to Know

When considering a trip to Indonesia in January it’s best to look to the east of the archipelago. Hundreds of kilometers from the rains affecting Jakarta, January is a great time to explore the unique landscapes and cultures of the Moluccas, Raja Am ...Read more

Indonesia in February: All You Need to Know

Indonesia is the largest island country stretching over 5,000 kilometers, with some fantastic destinations to visit. Even though it is the monsoon season, on a trip to Indonesia in February travelers can still find many places with clement weather conditi ...Read more

Indonesia in March: Weather, Travel Tips & More

A trip to Indonesia in March starts seeing a shift in its weather as the rainy season is in its last leg. This is the time when the country’s eastern islands, including the Moluccas and Raja Ampat, are joined by parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan in th ...Read more

Indonesia in April: Must-know Tips for Travelers

Visit Indonesia in April and you will find a perfect holiday destination largely free of crowds and rain. There is a multitude of attractions waiting to be explored and enjoyed during this time of year. Whether you visit Java in the west or Raja Ampat in ...Read more

Indonesia in May: All You Need to Know

Good weather across Indonesia makes May one of the best times to visit the archipelago. And with the peak vacation period still a couple of months away, you will get to enjoy the country’s many attractions in a crowd-free environment and in your own ...Read more

Where to go in Indonesia

Unravel the top destinations to visit in Indonesia.

10 Places to Visit in Bali

Planning a trip to Bali, but not quite sure where to go on Indonesia’s most well-known island? With so many gorgeous places to visit in Bali, often referred to as ‘the Island of the Gods’, it’s easy to be unsure of where to visit, ...Read more

10 Indonesian Temples You Must Visit

Contemporary Indonesia is a vibrant and dynamic country with a rich cultural heritage. Deep in its varied landscapes, this scattered archipelago of more than 17,000 islands is home to some amazing Buddhist and Hindu temples. Built thousands of years ...Read more

How long to stay in Indonesia

Read about the ideal duration to stay in Indonesia.

Great Indonesia Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

Known as the world’s largest island country, Indonesia is a fantastic travel destination that you shouldn’t miss out on. Home to picturesque landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and a novel cultural richness, consider wandering through Wonderf ...Read more

3 Days in Indonesia: Our Recommendations

Given its geographical and cultural diversity, the number of attractions that await in Indonesia can seem almost overbearing. Beaches compete for attention with lofty volcanic peaks, while jungles filled with exotic species provide a delightful contrast t ...Read more

7 Days in Indonesia: Our Recommendations

You could literally spend years exploring Indonesia’s islands and still be left with a biblical bucket list. Stick to just a couple of the 17,000 islands that form this beguiling Southeast Asian country and you will experience a whole lot more. Give ...Read more

10 Days in Indonesia: Top 3 Recommendations

Endlessly fascinating, Indonesia is finally getting the recognition it deserves as a vacation spot. With 10 days in Indonesia, you can do everything from exploring the country’s multitude of natural wonders to relaxing with a massage. Take in the ri ...Read more

2 Weeks in Indonesia: Top 4 Recommendations

Few people would ever deny the huge number of experiences you can have with 2 week Indonesia itinerary. Start out by scouring the islands of Java and Bali. Discover Borobudur, one of the world’s largest temple complexes. Take in the atmospheric stre ...Read more

Indonesia Tour and Holiday Packages

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Read the most frequently asked questions and answers about traveling to Indonesia below.

• How many days should you spend in Indonesia?
• How much is the cost for a trip to Indonesia?
• What is the best time to go to Indonesia?
• Is Indonesia safe for tourists?
• Do I need a tourist visa for Indonesia?

Sustainable travel — How to travel through Indonesia responsibly

In line with Bookmundi’s vision, we wish to provide our travelers with a sustainable travel experience through Indonesia. As part of this effort, we carbon-offset any Indonesia tour that you purchase through us. You can read more details about our carbon offsetting efforts .

Here’s what you can do to travel to Indonesia more responsibly:

• Carbon-offset your transport to Indonesia via Indonesia Travel . The moment your tour starts in Indonesia, and provided that you have purchased your tour through Bookmundi, we will carbon-offset your tour from its starting point to its ending point.
• If you can, give back to the communities that are facing socio-economic troubles as a result of sustainability issues via WRI Indonesia . Even donating a small amount can help bring sustainable practices to areas of Indonesia and revitalize at-risk. communities.
• As Indonesia is an island nation filled with important and endangered wildlife and precious coral reefs, pay special care to what kind of sunscreen or other cosmetic products you are using, because harmful chemicals in them may affect the aquatic ecosystem.

Indonesia travel tips and insight

• Indonesia is a big country so book your domestic flights early.
• It is considered rude to use your left hand.
• Make sure you do not just stick to Bali. Places like Jakarta, Lombok and Gili Islands are amazing places as well.
• You are expected to cover up, regardless of your sex, when entering temples and other holy sites.
• Krupuk is a popular deep-fried rice sugar snack found in every street corner.

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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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