indonesia travel itinerary

The Ideal Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months

04/17/2018 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

2 Weeks in Indonesia:

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

Days 1-4: Sumatra

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

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

Bus back to Medan and fly out to Bali.

Days 5-10: Bali & Nusa Islands

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

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

Days 11-14: Lombok

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

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

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

First Name:

1 month in Indonesia

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

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

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

Days 22-30: East Java

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

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

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

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

Days 22-30: Komodo

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

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

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

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

2 Months in Indonesia

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

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

Week one: Sumatra

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

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

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

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

Week five: Sumbawa or East Java

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

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

Weeks six through eight: Diving in Raja Ampat or Komodo

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

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

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

What are some of your favorite places in Indonesia?

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

About kristin addis.

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

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04/17/2018 at 7:04 am

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

Dominique | dominiquetravels.com says

04/19/2018 at 12:10 pm

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

Sara Vozel says

05/09/2018 at 11:11 pm

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

Mackenzie says

12/12/2018 at 8:14 am

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

Kristin says

12/12/2018 at 9:02 am

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

03/01/2019 at 8:45 am

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

Sophie says

06/18/2019 at 6:40 pm

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

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

06/19/2019 at 9:14 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quick Navigation

How many days in Indonesia

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

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

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

When is the best month to plan your trip to Indonesia

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

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

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

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

3 week Indonesia itinerary Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I’ll leave that decision up to you.

Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Bali

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Seminyak

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

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

Things to do in Seminyak or Canggu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Ubud

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

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

Where to stay in Ubud

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Ubud

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

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

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

Day 4: Ubud

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

I recommend getting a private driver for the day

Things to do

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Ubud to Gili islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do on day 5

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

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

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

Day 6: Gili Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Gili Islands to Lombok

And so, your 3 week Indonesia itinerary continues.

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Lombok

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Lombok

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

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

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

Day 8: Kuta, Lombok

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

Things to do in Kuta, lombok

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

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

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

Day 9: Lombok to Flores Island (Komodo Islands)

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

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

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

Where to stay in Flores

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

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

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

Things to do in Labuan Bajo

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

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

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

Komodo liveaboard options

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

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

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

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

Day 10-11: Komodo Liveaboard

Day 12: return to lubuan bajo.

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

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

Day 13: Komodo Islands to Uluwatu, Bali

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Uluwatu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Uluwatu

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

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

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

Day 14: Uluwatu

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

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

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

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

Day 15-20: Uluwatu and beyond

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

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

Here are my recommendations for other things to do.

Option 1: Explore the Kelimutu Crater Lakes in Flores

Time needed: 2 nights

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

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

Option 2: Visit Mount Bromo in Java

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

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

Option 2: Nusa Penida, Bali

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

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

Option 3: Munduk, Bali

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

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

Day 21: The end of your 3 weeks in Indonesia

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

What to pack for Indonesia

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

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

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

Is Indonesia expensive to visit

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

Do I need a visa for Indonesia

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

This has now changed!

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Best time to visit indonesia.

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

How long to spend in Indonesia

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

Final thoughts on 3 weeks Indonesia itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Asia , Indonesia , Itineraries · November 25, 2020

Perfect 2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary: Best Places to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Indonesia 2 Week Itinerary Travel Essentials

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

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

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Indonesia: Quick Overview 

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

How long should you stay in Indonesia

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

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

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

When is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Jakarta

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

Where to Stay in Jakarta

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

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

Day 2: Go Sightseeing in Jakarta

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Jakarta tours

Day 3: take the train to yogyakarta.

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

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

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

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

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

Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta

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

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

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

Recommended Tours in Yogyakarta

Day 5: visit borobudur.

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

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

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

Day 6: Take a plane to Bali

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

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

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

Where to stay in Seminyak

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

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

Day 7: Relax at the Beach

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

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

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

Recommended Tours in Bali

Day 8: go to ubud.

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

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

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

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

Day 9: Explore Uluwatu

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

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

Day 10: Day Trip to Nusa Penida

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

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

Recommended Nusa Penida Tours

Day 11: take a boat to the gili islands.

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

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

Best Gili T Accommodation

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

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

Day 12: Swim with turtles

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

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

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

Day 13: Day Trip to Gili Air

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

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

Day 14: Head home

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

2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary in Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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May 28, 2021 at

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

May 30, 2021 at

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

October 13, 2022 at

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

October 17, 2022 at

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

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2 Weeks in Indonesia: The Perfect Itinerary (Beaches, Temples & Adventure!)

Indonesia itinerary.

Indonesia is one far flung country. 

We just returned from two incredible weeks traveling around Indonesia and loved every minute of it!

From a mud-slinging off-roading adventure in Bandung to exploring the cultural heart of Yogyakarta , then scuba diving in Raja Ampat and learning to surf in Lombok … visiting Indonesia was non stop adventure!

If you’re thinking of a trip to Southeast Asia, I included our itinerary below.

It combines Indonesia hot spots like Bali and Yogyakarta along with some islands that are a little less well known – so you can truly explore some of the best places to visit in Indonesia !

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Incredible Cities in Indonesia

Best Places to Visit in Indonesia

Before you go:.

• I read up on the main sights and regions using this  Indonesia guidebook  before heading east. If you already know you want to spend your time in the sun and sand on Lombok / Bali , pick up this region specific book  instead.
• Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with 17,000+ islands spread out across more than 3,000 miles so if you want to really explore, you’ll likely be flying from place to place. Domestically, we flew with Tiger Air and and Garuda  and both far exceeded my expectations (in fact, they were better than the long-haul flights I took getting in and out of Indonesia!)
• Borobudur , the 8th century Buddhist temple is one of the world’s greatest religious monuments and best visited at sunrise, when the mist lifts from the mountains. The monument sells a special sunrise ticket – buy in advance and show up early, as it gets quite crowded.
• Bring sunscreen and extra strength  mosquito repellent – lots of repellent. I counted over 50 bites on myself during the trip and arrived home looking like I had chicken pox! For face sunscreen, my favorite is this Biore one  and for body I’m loving this Tropic one which smells amazing and is very moisturizing. I got eaten alive by mosquito while there so I’d also recommend cortizone if you’re as allergic to the bites as I am
• Curious about what to pack for a trip to Indonesia? My packing guide and outfits post is here .

The Best Indonesia Itinerary

Since everyone knows about Bali by now, I wanted to combine it in an itinerary with Indonesia’s other cities. The country has over 17,000 islands with diverse cultures and ancient UNESCO heritage sites and they’re all so different!

I’ve focused this itinerary around local culture, ancient ruins, good food and fabulous beaches. Keep reading for the off the beaten path to 2 weeks in Indonesia!

Day 1: Arrive Jakarta

Java island.

Jakarta is the international hub and main landing point into the country (the other international airport is in Denpasar, near Lombok and Bali).

Indonesia’s capital city is filled with glittering skyscrapers and heavy traffic.

There’s not necessarily many tourist sights in Jakarta, but it’s still nice to spend a day or two in the capital to rest and explore after a long flight.

If you like shopping, Jakarta is paradise. 

I spent an afternoon wandering the fancy malls of Grand Indonesia and Pacific Place where for enough dough, you can zoom away in a McLaren or glitter in diamonds.

For my indulgence, I chose an iced coffee drink made with espresso and condensed milk (smaller in price tag but no less luxurious ha).

Best Things to Do in Jakarta

• See the city’s highlights like Merdeka Square, the Presidential Palace and Istiqulal Mosque. This private full day tour is a convenient option as it includes transportation
• Learn about Jakarta’s colonial past and explore the Dutch style quarter of Old Batavia

Getting Around Jakarta

Jakarta traffic is legendary.

Unfortunately there’s no public subway system so grab a scooter, uber or taxi to get around and… budget double the time you think you need. That traffic is bumper to bumper!

On the plus side, taxis are very affordable!

I took a 40 minute ride into the city and paid 125,000 rupiah (just under $10 USD). My Indonesian friends recommended that tourists stick to reputable taxi companies like Blue Bird.

Or, if you’ve been to Asia before and are comfortable with motorbikes, try GoJek. GoJek is the local taxi/uber version for scooters.

Where to Stay in Jakarta

Swiss Belhotel Airport Jakarta is where we've stayed on every visit to Indonesia.

Since we typically only spend ~1-2 days in Jakarta and heard about the horror stories with the city's traffic, this airport hotel on the outskirts of the city was a great option.

The hotel is clean, affordable and spacious with free WiFi and a modern atmosphere. Coming from NYC, the flights to Jakarta are brutally long (and always involve layovers) so the comfortable beds here are a lifesaver.

There's not much to do or see in the capital as it's mainly a working city so I don't think you can go wrong in finding a clean, affordable hotel to rest up after your long flight and then heading onwards! 

Book rooms: Booking.com , Hotels.com , Agoda

Check rates: TripAdvisor

Days 2-3: Bandung

Bandung is the capital of West Java Province.

Because it’s relatively close to the city but feels completely different, the city is a very popular getaway for Jakarta locals. Whereas the capital is congested and modern, Bandung is green, airy and historic.

It’s location high in the mountains provides a beautiful open-air feel with lots of great cafes, outdoor activities and an insight into Javanese culture.

Bandung is widely considered Indonesia’s center for learning and creativity and I believe part of this is due to the prestigious local university.

After a couple days in Bandung, I could see why it was so popular with Jakartans!

Getting Around Bandung

Bandung is a spread out city and again, there really isn’t widely available public transportation.

I believe most local Indonesians drive, so it is very helpful to have a car to get around. If you’re traveling with a group, the most economical thing to do is to hire a driver for the day. That’s what we did!

Best Things to Do in Bandung

• Tour a beautiful tea plantation
• Visit Hong Community to learn traditional games and explore Bandung’s cultural side
• Spend an afternoon off-roading in Lembang forest
• Explore Jayagiri forest in north Bandung
• Visit the colorful Lembang floating market
• Listen to beautiful bamboo instrument concert at Saung Mang Udjo (Udjo’s House)
• Take a day trip to see the beautiful volcanic crater lake of Kawah Putih
• Dip into the hot springs by volcanic crater, Tangkuban Perahu
• Go on a challenging jungle trek inside a volcano !

Where to Eat in Bandung

Two restaurants we tried were amazing:

• Dusun Bambu : This is a huge park with different greenery, sculptures and lakes. There’s lots of restaurants on site and it’s a great spot for traditional Indonesian food and fantastic views.
• Kampung Daun : Another beautiful, airy and huge restaurant. Walking through here was like exploring a rainforest with lots of greenery and bamboo hut style eating areas. Loved the food here as well!

Where to Stay in Bandung

Sheraton Hotel Bandung is a gorgeous luxury hotel in the city. 

From the gorgeous lobby, to the multiple outdoor swimming pools, we loved every minute of our stay here. If you're a Starwood member and have SPG points, definitely stay here!

There's free WiFi and a huge breakfast buffet which makes the stay very relaxing. Our rooms had modern, bright decor, extra comfy beds and fantastic views of the pool. 

Book rooms:   Booking.com , Hotels.com , Agoda

Days 4-6: Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is one of my favorite regions in Indonesia.

If you like natural wonders, local art and ancient culture, you can’t skip a visit!

The region is often abbreviated as “Jokja” or “Jokjakarta” (as in Indonesian, y’s are spoken like j’s) and has enough sights and attractions to keep you riveted for several days.

Jogja is home to many of Indonesia’s most famous temples. It’s also the spot to pick up local Indonesian fabric, called batik, or to try making it yourself!

Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta

There’s  a lot  to do in Yogyakarta and its surrounding area. No matter what you like to do – cultural travel, adventure and hiking, try local cuisine – you can do it in Jogja. 

• Get up at sunrise to climb Candi Borobudur , a 9th century Buddhist temple
• Explore the 3 expressions of God at Candi Prambanan , a Hindu temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site at sunset
• Visit more ancient UNESCO world heritage sites like the Sultan’s Palace and Taman Sari water castle
• Make your own batik fabric – it’s harder than it looks!
• Try crafting traditional Javanese wood puppets (if you want a harder challenge)
• Learn to cook authentic Javanese cuisine in a hands on Indonesian cooking class
• See the Ramayana Ballet performance of the classic Hindu story
• Explore Yogyakarta at night with a fun street food tour , by rickshaw!

Getting Around Yogyakarta

We also hired a driver to take us around Yogyakarta.

It’s the most convenient way to get around the city and take nearby day trips, since the sights are pretty spread out. The famous temples of Borobudur and Prambanan are outside the city in nearby Magelang, while some of the really adventure heavy sights are even farther out.

Day Trips form Yogyakarta

There’s so much to do in the city of Yogyakarta but if you have  even more time , there’s a lot of natural beauty just a short car ride away. The region is home to several towering volcanoes (that are still active!), extensive cave systems and serene blue lakes. 

If you love the outdoors, you have to at least take one of these day trips!

• Day Trip to Mount Merapi in a 4×4, Indonesia’s most active volcano. This tour takes you at sunset for the most scenic visit!
• Day trip to Jomblang Cave , where you can descend 60 meters down into a tiny hole
• Day Trip to Kalibiru National Park , famous on Instagram for its scenery and views
• If you really like a challenge, trekking the summit of Mount Bromo and Ijen is a popular multi day hike

Where to Stay in Jogjakarta

We stayed at The Phoenix and this stunning hotel was my favorite of the trip.

It has grand, old colonial architecture that feels quite similar to Raffles in Singapore. But while the rooms are decorated with antique, traditional Indonesian furniture, the hotel is still modern and luxurious!

There's a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool that we took full advantage of and the gigantic breakfast spread was not to be missed – they offer both Western and Indonesia food. My favorite part was the coffee option each morning, with six different types of sugar .

While the rooms themselves are fairly small, they're very comfortable. The hotel offers free WiFi and local fruits on arrival (give the rat tail fruit a try). Stay here for the atmosphere!

Book rooms: Booking.com ,   Hotels.com , Agoda

Days 7-10: Raja Ampat

Papua island.

Raja Ampat is one of the most beautiful, untouched ocean paradises on earth.

It’s composed of four large main islands, called the Four Kings. Together the region of Raja Ampat covers 9.8 million acres of land and sea all the way in East Indonesia. 

For years Raja Ampat was a bit of a “secret” paradise, known mostly to Indonesians and the scuba diving community.

While the islands here might seem “ordinary”, it’s the sights under the sea that are extraordinary.

Visiting Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is one of the most bio diverse marine sights in the world, with over 540 types of corals, over 1,000 types of reef fish and over 700 types of mollusks.

While I’ve never been to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, all the divers on our trip who had scuba dived in both places said it was no contest – Raja Ampat blew it out of the water.

Chances are if you’re visiting here, you’ve come to scuba dive. All of our days on the islands were spent in the water, swimming, snorkeling, meeting the locals and relaxing in paradise.

Scuba Diving in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is on the cusp of two oceans, the Indian and Pacific and the current is pretty strong. The journey is SO worth it, but if you’re explicitly looking to visit for the diving, it helps to be extra comfortable.

I would recommend having an Advanced certification or being very comfortable with scuba diving. The waves can be a bit rough for beginners (at least they were for me).

We tried both snorkeling and scuba diving and saw incredible fish and reef life even on the snorkeling so that’s always a fantastic option either way!

Getting to Raja Ampat

So why isn’t Raja Ampat more well known?  Probably many reasons but the main one is location.

Raja Ampat is located on the western side of the island of Papua – it’s  incredibly  far even if it might not look it on the map. It’s also very undeveloped, and it took us a combination of planes, buses and ferries to get there on a  very  long and tiring journey. 

At one point I fell asleep in a hotel lobby couch because I was so exhausted! Oops. 

But once we made it, we were surrounded by sand and sunshine. Time there felt unreal, like being in one of the last untouched places on earth. 

Things to Do in Raja Ampat

• Scuba dive with giant manta rays, turtles and the most amazing coral reefs in the world
• Feed the fish at Sawinggrai
• Visit the community of Arborek Village for snorkeling and local food (tree sap anyone?)
• Hike Piaynemo for unbelievable views of the islands

Where to stay in Raja Ampat  

We stayed at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge it was incredible. From the first steps onto the long wooden jetty, you know you're stepping into another world.

We spent 3 days in paradise, snorkeling under the dock, watching each sunrise and sunset and having fresh grilled shrimp and fish on the open pit.

Just be sure to pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent! Each night in early October, tropical rainstorms hit and I would wake up with 10 new mosquito bites.

Book rooms: Booking.com , Agoda

Days 11-12 Lombok

Lombok island.

Lombok is one of the more popular areas in Indonesia.

It’s known for its beaches and great surfing. We had the best time learning how to surf here and highly recommend it!

If you’re deciding between the beach regions:

• Lombok is more touristy and commercial
• Raja Ampat is untouched and more ‘Castaway’ esque
• Bali is more hippie and trendy

Best Things to Do in Lombok

• Brave the waves for a surfing lesson at Selong Blanak Beach
• Shop for local sarongs in the nearby marketplace
• Take a 3 hour cooking class to learn how to make spicy local Lombok cuisine
• Visit the famous Pink Beach of Lombok , where coral fragments turn traditionally white sand into a pastel pink
• Discover north Lombok, famous for its waterfalls , tribal villages and the Bayan old mosque
• Take a day trip to the southern part of Lombok where you can visit the Sasak tribe and relax at Kuta beach
• For a challenge, take a multi day and night trek to reach the crater rim of Mount Rinjani 

Where to Stay in Lombok

We stayed at Novotel Lombok Resort and Villas .

It's a beautiful, sprawling indoor-outdoor hotel on the beach with tons of daily activities, like taking Indonesia cooking classes, feed the monkeys or trying yoga on the beach.

The rooms felt more like suites – they were airy, open and had modern jungle-y decor. The hotel also had a fantastic breakfast (can you tell I love a great hotel breakfast?!)

The Novotel Lombok is very well known – we saw the most Europeans and Australians on this property than anywhere else on the trip (but that's probably also because Lombok and the nearby Gili islands are a very popular destination in Indonesia.)

If you want more 5 star luxurious accommodation in Lombok, this hotel is it!

Book rooms:   Booking.com ,   Hotels.com , Agoda

Days 13-14: Gili Trangwan

Gili is the collective name for three small islands off the coast of Lombok .

We stayed on the largest of the 3, Gili Trawangan, which has the most infrastructure. Gili T is known for its vibrant nightlife and felt very similar to Cancun, with street after street of bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a girls getaway or party spot – this is it!

The island itself is pretty small and doesn’t allow any kind of motorized transport. So instead, you can hop on a horse drawn cart, rent a bike or just walk.

We had a lot of fun riding bikes around the island perimeter and trying out all the beach swings.

Getting to the Gili Islands

From Lombok, you’ll have to take a speed boat to reach any of the three Gili islands.

In high season, there’s often a long wait for the ferries so you can save time by booking a trip in advance. You can reserve either a trip on the fast or slow boats.

Best Things to Do in Gili Trangwan

• Bike around the island, stopping for a pina colada or two
• Swing on the ocean hammocks and swings (although be aware these can get crowded)
• Relax by the pool and have a gelato or two (there are tons of stands on the island, all are delicious)
• Once the sun goes down… bar hop all night long!
• Learn how to scuba dive with a beginner PADI open water course
• Take a beginner dive trip to see underwater sea turtles
• Island hop between Gili Trangwan, Gili Air and Gili Meno
• Go on a snorkeling trip to the undisturbed, uninhabited islands of Gili Kondo, Gili Kapal and Gili Lampu
• Don’t know how to swim? Walk underwater with a Seawalker tour so you can see the fish

Where to Stay in Gili Trangwan

We stayed at Villa Ombak , a large gorgeous property right across the dock when you get off on the island.

The Villa has a number of different room types – I had one with an absolutely huge outdoor bathroom / shower that was so fun. There's a great pool with tons of hammocks, bikes to rent and giant chess boards.

You could comfortably stay here all morning, head to the beach and then party at night.

The best tours in Indonesia:

• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek :  a once in a lifetime experience to enjoy sunrise at the summit of Mount Batur. Balinese guides will show you the way under dark and take you to the edge of the active volcano. Check availability here .
• Beach and Bar Hop:   I wish I had known about this tour when I was traveling in Indonesia! Beach and bar hop across bali in these adorable 1980 VW buses (yes, they’re wifi and minibar equipped). Watch the sunset at Jimbaran bay, sip cocktails at Bali’s best seaside resorts and do Bali in style. Check availability here .
• Bali Reef Cruise and Lembongan Island Day Trip :  Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic protected island and one of the best places to go snorkeling, diving, etc from Bali. This tour takes care of all transportation and meals! Check availability here .
• Bali Traditional Village Tour :  A full day tour to Ubud’s traditional villages and most famous temples with a stunning lunch over Bali’s volcano. Check availability here .
• Seminyak Cooking Class : Do you love food? Then you can’t miss a cooking class to learn Balinese classics like coconut pancakes, fried banana and papaya soup. Check availability here .

Visiting Indonesia – Travel Planning Checklist

Go |  From New York City, there are no direct flights to Indonesia but you can grab reasonably priced flights if you book early. Check often for routes and fares here . I've transferred in Doha and China and prefer Doha's modern airport via Qatar Airways.

If flying to Jakarta, fares will be slightly cheaper and from Indonesia's capital you can explore Bandung , Yogyakarta and Sumatra on short domestic flights. If your focus is Bali , note that flights from the the East Coast of the USA will be slightly more expensive and typically will involve a 2nd stopover in Jakarta anyway.

Getting Around | You can rent a motorized scooter to get around or book a tour to handle transportation if you're not comfortable. Taxis and Ubers will work in some areas, but not all. Gojek is a popular app for moped taxis. Jakarta and Bali have especially terrible traffic.

Stay | I highly recommend ‘hotel hopping' Bali – the island is quite large and different neighborhoods   have their own characteristics. Bali is also a fantastic place to splurge on a luxury resort – the options are endless, the views are unbeatable and the food is divine. We loved both Alila Villas Uluwatu and the Sofitel Nusa Dua .

Airbnb is a great way to stay in luxurious Balinese resorts for discounted rates – especially if you're traveling with a group. Many have spacious villas and beautiful pools .

Pack |  Bring light fabrics and traditional summer wear for Bali along with mosquito spray. If you intend to visit Indonesia's other cities and famous temples , bring modest clothing. Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim country and can view short shorts and mini skirts as impolite. You can read my complete Bali packing list here .

Protect | Lastly, be sure to visit Indonesia with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most.

I ended up getting seriously ill and visiting the hospital while in Solo, Indonesia and being taken care of was a lifesaver. Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Indonesia Vacation Planning Articles

Quick Guide: The Ultimate Indonesia Travel Guide

When is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia

At a Glance: 50 Incredible Things You Can Only Do in Indonesia

An Off the Beaten Path Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Indonesia

Yogyakarta : 10 Highlights from Java's Cultural Center

UNESCO World Heritage: Exploring Borobudur & Prambanan Temple

Bandung Don't Leave Without Seeing These 7 Sights

Visiting Bali

Bali Packing List : What to Wear in the World's Largest Muslim Country

Where to Stay: Bali's Best Neighborhoods

Luxury Resorts in Bali with Epic Swimming Pools

Hotel Review: Alila Villas Uluwatu

More Beautiful Islands

A Raja Ampat Travel Guide : Scuba Diving, Hiking & How to Get There

Sun, Surf & Sea: Visiting Lombok & The Gili Islands

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I really like the 2nd itinerary you listed. I am arriving to denpasar, bali, and will like to follow this one. I have two questions and I was wondering if perhaps you could assist. One for the second itinerary, do you think it would be possible to substitute something (like staying a few days extra in kanawa island ) and going to the Gili islands instead? Also, is it better and less expensive to rent hotels once there or to do it online? (i.e the rates for the places you stayed, did you pre-book?)

Hi Brenda – I don’t quite understand your question as I only posted one itinerary, do you mean the second week? I did include the Gili islands on the trip and if you want a more fun / party atmosphere it’s worth exploring. For hotels yes, it’s definitely better to pre-book, you’ll get a cheaper rate.

Lately I’ve been getting comments from users who leave “check my gift card balance” and other strange websites as their URL. I’m not really sure why. I’m tempted to think your comment is spam! If i’m mistaken, please let me know.

It looks absolutely stunning there. I really like how you captured the natural beauty of it. I definitely want to visit some day. Great post! :]

Thanks Carmen! Indonesia is SO stunning – hope you make it out there soon :)

It looks like a dream!! I can’t wait to go back to SE Asia!

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Such a lovely write up and gorgeous pics. I want to go back and do it all over again! Cx

Thanks Chloe!!

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Great photos, layout and information! Was such a great trip!

Thanks Mike! Appreciate you stopping by. Hope we see each other again soon!

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Wow! These are such beautiful photos and awesome suggestions too, definitely adding some of these to my bucket list. Really love how you organize your blog as well. It’s so clean and love that little drop-down option. Thanks for sharing!

Hey Sher, it’s Cher. Lol. I loved this post. Very helpful and gorgeous pics. I’m bookmarking this for when I go next spring!

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This summer I went to Bali and the Gilis for two/three weeks. But i wish I had had time to see more of Indonesia! Hopefully i can go back soon! Thanks for sharing, ive written these things down. x

Ooh wish I had spent 3 weeks in Bali, sounds amazing!

Hi Sher. Thank you for sharing your experiences in this beautiful countrie. I´m very interested in going to Indonesia, specially Bali for honeymoon. Your itinenary is interesting. I´m flying from either LAX or San Diego. I see that you flew to Jakarta… from where did you flew back to your home? Same? Jakarta?

Please let me know or make suggestions. Many thanks in advance.

I wondered if you received my previous e-mail? I´m going to Indonesia going from either LAX or San Diego. You flew Jakarta way. What airport/city do you suggest coming back to LAX or SD?

Thank you very much!!!!

Hi Maria, I’m happy you’re planning to visit Indonesia. The best place to check flights is either google.com/flights or skyscanner – both will give you great options and allow you to set price alerts for the best deals. Happy to help!

Hi really great blog, itinerary, photos- what a fab trip. Definately want to do. Just a question you spent 3 days on Raja Ampat- as it takes 2 days to get there? Do you give yourself 6/7 days to get there, 3 days there and get back? just thinking how many days we need to get there and back. I read you said it’s better to pre book rooms/ places to stay- as it’s cheaper. Would we be ok just turning up and asking? Done so in other countries but better to book ahead on Raja ampat. Thanks for all your photos and itinerary and travel ideas- brilliant! Suze

Hi Suzanne – so glad you enjoy the content! To answer your question, I spent 3 full days on the islands of Raja Ampat and the travel time to and from was additional time. If you’re coming from Jakarta or Denpasar, it’s a hair more straight forward as it cuts out one flight, but you should budget at least a full day, possibly a day and a half, for travel time each way.

I covered the full logistical details of getting to Raja Ampat in this post: https://shershegoes.com/how-to-get-to-raja-ampat/

I do recommend booking ahead for a couple reasons. First, it’s quite expensive. Raja Ampat is remote so everything about the trip is pricey – the flights, the ferries/speedboats and the hotels themselves, not to mention diving. If you book ahead you’ll avoid the sticker shock. Secondly, Raja Ampat is a series of islands and the main island where you ferry into, Wasei, is just a industrial port/hub without any tourist infrastructure. Most people choose one of the smaller, more private islands to stay at and to get to the smaller island you need a speedboat which the hotel will arrange for you in advance (at extra cost). If you just show up, you’ll be a bit stranded. You can’t relaly walk around ha. Finally, there aren’t many lodging options. There’s a dive eco center closest to Wasei, the Raja Ampat Dive Lodge I stayed at which is probably the most “luxury”, local home stays on some islands (but these aren’t well advertised unless you are already on the smaller islands) and perhaps 5-8 other hotels so supply is limiting.

Do you speak Indonesian? If so, I think showing up and asking around could be potentially ok. I have to admit I never show up without a hotel booked, even if just as a backup. It sounds like you are comfortable doing it so maybe you may feel differently. I do like booking with booking.com bc you can then cancel without charge if you change your mind.

a final note – Raja Ampat sees very few tourists out in West Papua except “luxury” tourists and die hard scuba divers so there isn’t much infrastructure to cater to Westerners.

Hope that helps and please check the Raja Ampat post for all the logistical details. I put it in there for anyone looking for dedicated info on Raja Ampat! Let me know if you have any other questions, happy to help.

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Can I just tell how amazing your pictures are. I am sold on Indonesia just by the pictures!

I see that you have been to both Thailand and Indonesia. I would like to get your advise on honeymoon location. Which would you prefer for honeymoon? Both of us aren’t so much into beaches but would like some beach time after the wedding and also do some exploring. We are getting married in August and plan to go on the honeymoon in Sept/Oct. I read weather isn’t too good around that time in Thailand but I was kind of leaning towards Thailand. I would really appreciate any advise or input to make my decision on the location. Thank You!

Hi Sumaiya, hmm personally I would pick Koh Samui thailand for your honeymoon! That was my favorite place, and I loved where stayed (conrad koh samui). Its not super beachy bc the villas are built into the cliffs but each room has its own infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, and the hotel has a small private island if you want to snorkel and explore!

Hi! Amazing itinerary! I read your post on getting to Raja Ampat but was curious how you got from Raja Ampat to Lombok. Did you fly back through Jakarta?

Hi Teddie – thanks! If I remember correctly we connected in makassar. Doesn’t make sense to go all the way to jakarta, as its further west!

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Hi- I love how you posted photos. May I ask which image plug-in you use? I’ve been looking for one for a long time. Please let me know. Thank you!

Hi Chloe – Thanks for the kind words, but I’m not sure what you mean. I don’t use a plugin for photos

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Hi, we are considering Indonesia for our next big trip and you’re itinerary is amazing! I think we may follow your recs and schedule haha! I was wondering what time is the best time to go? We were thinking july-aug (next year). Thanks!

Hi Mya – Thanks! I wrote about the best time to go / seasonal expectations here

I’ve been to Indonesia in July-August and Sept-Oct. Both were lots of fun!

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Indonesia ? I love this country cause the nature is amazing. I hope I can go to those places too.

Oh, I just found that you wrote Yogyakarta as Jokja or Jokjakarta, but I am sorry, you are wrong. Yogyakarta is actually Jogja or Jogjakarta and some call as Ngayogyakarta .

Love your posts ?

Thanks for the correction! My bad.

I love Indonesia too!!!

This such a good blog. I just hope you can come to my home island of Flores. We have so many locals here that are hurting because of covid and we have tour company. If you come back to Indonesia…please please come see us and we can show you around my beautiful home! Thank you! – Jejey

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The Ultimate 2 Week Indonesia Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2024

Categories Asia , Guides , Indonesia , Travel Guides

My 2 week Indonesia itinerary is carefully composed  to guide you through the most exclusive parts  of this spectacular country.

Land of giants, jungles, and volcanos, Indonesia was an old bucket list dream of mine. I mean, how many countries can claim they have  easily accessible volcanos, unique  ( and extremely cute )  endemic primates, pristine waters swarming with life, the oldest Buddhist temple in the world, the most instagramable island and even the last living dinosaurs ?

Sadly, for such a short visit, we can’t see them all. Keep reading to learn which one of those should be part of your 2 week Indonesia itinerary and which can be saved for your second visit.

Now, a bit more about  Indonesia .  The world’s largest island country ,  with more than seventeen thousand islands  (!), Indonesia’s 261 million inhabitants are spread around 34 different provinces. The provinces are more like the states in the US –  every single one of them feels like a different country .

Let me give you an example – people on Bali are Hinduists, they have Hindu temples, Hindu homes, and Hindu holidays. The rest of the country is Muslim, except the Paupa part who are mostly Christians but are often blending Christianity with Animism.

So many different areas, people and customs, makes the 2 week Indonesia itinerary a hard task. I don’t want to get you down, but  if you’re like me and you want to see everything, 2 weeks in Indonesia won’t be even close to enough.

In this itinerary guide, I’ll try to walk you around the biggest highlights of the country and to expose you to as many of its different cultures as possible. It may sound tiring (and it is), but I design my routes considering all the travel time, jetlag, and airport struggle  so you should have enough time to recharge your batteries in between the volcano climb and the orangutan search.

Excited already? Let’s start our 2 weeks in Indonesia!

2 weeks in Indonesia Itinerary Guide

Day 1-3: Bali

The beginning of your journey in Indonesia would start either from the capital – Jakarta or from the most significant tourist hub in the country – Bali.

I recommend doing your best to start in Bali . Jakarta is a big and chaotic city, and you won’t miss anything by skipping it. Motorbiking around Bali , on the other hand, is a bucket experience by itself. The island is also one of the very  best places to kick back and prepare for the next 2 weeks in Indonesia .

Especially if you are coming from the US or Europe, there is no better way to battle the jetlag than sipping a pineapple cocktail by the pool of a traditional Balinese villa.

While housing plenty of Hindu temples and numerous picturesque sights, the traffic around the island is a nightmare and if  you don’t want to spend your first days in Indonesia stuck inside a car , don’t plan a lot of sightseeing. It’s best to pick the attractions according to the area your hotel is in.

Seminyak is like  the downtown of Bali . Located a bit north from the airport, the area is  the number one tourist spot on the island , offering funky cafes, 5-star beach resorts, and trendy bars.

If you’re a foodie, Seminyak is famous for having the best restaurants in Bali, most -of them located on the same street ( known as Jalan Laksmana or Kayu Aya ).

If you decide to stay there, the closest attraction is the  Tanah Lot sea temple  ( just make sure you’re not there during the weekend when it’s hugely overcrowded). Tanah Lot is a bit far, a bit chaotic and that’s why I believe it’s best enjoyed via tour . You can also combine it with Taman Ayun temple for a sunset experience like no other or go even further and see Ubud’s monkey forest .

Check out the best hotels in Seminyak

Kuta is the area around the airport and is also an  area famous for its nightlife and cheap accommodation options . It’s basically the backpacking neighborhood of Bali. If you chose to stay here, I suggest visiting  the biggest waterpark in east Asia – Waterbom and the Sea Temple –  Tanah Lot .

Check Out the best hotels in Kuta

Jimbaran and Nusa Dua

– Areas south of Kuta, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua are still close to the airport but don’t offer the same cheap hotels and bars like Kuta. If you want a  tropical vacation on a private beach without too many parties around you , Jimbaran and Nusa Dua are just for you.

If you choose to stay there, the best attraction is the nearby  Uluwatu temple . Uluwatu is a bit tricky, from afar it looks nothing special but it really has plenty to offer. You can reach it easily via a scooter or a taxi. Uluwatu’s biggest attraction is the Kecak Dance. Trust me; it’s one of those local cultural things you must see in Bali . If you’re more interested in the beach bars there, this bar-hopping tour is your thing.

Check Out the best hotels in  Jimbaran  and  Nusa Dua

Made famous by Julia Roberts “Eat, Pray, Love” movie, Ubud is the place that put Bali on the map as one of the best tourist destinations in the world.

The cultural heart of Bali  is located in the center of the island and while there are no beaches in Ubud, the calm vibe and the stunning nature of the mountain village makes it among the most popular choices to stay in Bali.

If your desire is to be away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and experience a little bit more of a rural vacation in a typical Balinese villa – Ubud is the place for you! If you choose to stay there, in three days, you can check  Ubud’s Monkey Forest, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and the Pura Gunung Kawi and Pura Tirta Empul temples.

The Monkey Forest is easy to reach and you need neither a scooter nor a tour to check it out. The terraces are a bit farther. Even though they can be reached easily via taxi or scooter I recommend getting a private driver or even rent a car .

Being the most popular part of Bali, Ubud offers plenty of options to fill our day. You can choose a regular Ubud highlights tour , a Secret Waterfalls one (my favorite) or an adventure one You can also go up north and visit the picturesque  Ulun Danu Beratan temple and the waterfalls around it .

See the best hotels in Ubud

One of the most exciting spots in Bali is the  Pura Lempoyang temple . A mountain temple, made famous by thousands of Instagramers, this temple not only offers terrific photo ops but also makes for a great day trip and mountain trekking.

The bad thing about it is that it’s  located far away from all tourist areas  and it takes a whole day to go there, climb it and go back. If you’re on a photo hunt, It could be combined with the nearby  Tirtagangga natural pool.

Speaking of photo hunts and Instagramers,  Bali is THE place for content creators and digital nomads . The islands offer so many different post-card-perfect spots that it’s almost impossible to leave it without making a top-notch photo memory.

If photos are the prime reason to visit Bali, I recommend getting the premium  Bali’s   Instagram tour . The locations are so spread around, that  having a knowledgable photographer as a guide would really save you a ton of time.  And since you’re reading a 2 week Indonesia itinerary post, my guess is time is not on your side.

If you decide to spend more than a day, hunting for photos, there is an  Instagram tour that covers the nearby Nusa Penida too . And I won’t lie if I tell you that Nusa Penida is among the most photogenic places I have seen anywhere in the world!

Transportation around Bali

The most popular way of transportation in Bali ( just like anywhere else in South-east Asia ) are the scooters. I don’t rate the Balinese roads a lot though, and the traffic is very chaotic so  if you don’t have experience riding one of those, better skip it . If you feel safer in a car, I recommend checking out  Discover Cars  and their tool that will compare all the best rent-a-car providers in the area. The prices they manage to find are sometimes ridiculously low.

You can  book a private car with a dirver  that will take you anywhere on the island or if you follow my advice and spend more time relaxing than sightseeing, you’d do just fine with taxis.

It’s a good idea to  book a transfer from the airport to your hotel . The taxi scams are very annoying and I’m sure you’re not looking forward to them right after an exhausting flight.

   See Also:   Top 20 Biggest Landmarks in Asia

Castaway Tip Taxis in Bali are heavy scammers and will always try to overcharge you. The most legit ones are the BlueBird taxis. The easiest way to recognize them – they are blue! The others do try to copy them so be careful! To make sure you get a real one, Bluebird recently released a mobile app that apparently lets you book a taxi in advance and gives you a fixed price. I haven’t tried it, but it sounds like an excellent option!

Day 4 -5: Mount Bromo

Now that you’ve reclaimed your strengths back in Bali,  you are ready for some adventures!  Don’t worry, this 2 week Indonesia itinerary got you covered! It’s time to climb a volcano and look inside its crater. Later ( or earlier ) you would go to see it on sunrise for  one of the biggest WOW moments of your life!

 Sounds fun, right?

Mount Bromo is a famous Indonesian volcano and a huge tourist attraction. It’s  among the easiest volcanos to climb  ( more like a walk than a climb ), and it’s shaped so beautifully that  thousands of people go there every morning to enjoy the sunrise .

While a lot of people use the easy way and book a tour ( you can get one even  from Bali ), having the authentic experience and doing it by yourself is far more rewarding ( and would save you a ton of money )! Getting there and spreading your time correctly is, however, a bit tricky but I got you covered.

Check out my  Climbing Mount Bromo for Free guide  and learn the easiest way to get there, where to stay, what is the Sea of Sand and  even a map for the secret path to the volcano!

Day 6: Surabaya

Surabaya is one of the  most boring places  you’d visit during your 2 weeks in Indonesia. If I could skip it, I would but to get to our next location, we need to spend a night in a nearby town, and Surabaya is conveniently  located between Mount Bromo and Borneo . No attractions to see there, my only advise is to book a hotel close to the airport and get the first flight to Pangkalan Bun.

If you decide to follow another itinerary, you can also catch a flight from Jakarta, Semarang and few other places in Indonesia.

See all flights to Pangkalan Bun

Day 7-9: Borneo

The most underrated part of the country , Borneo is the crown jewel of my 2 week Indonesia itinerary! While Bali, Bromo, and Komodo are on every traveler’s route, Borneo somehow remains  off the beaten track . I don’t really have an explanation of why. The Malaysian part of the island is well visited, but the Indonesian apparently lacks in the PR department. And what a mistake skipping Borneo would be!

One of the only two places in the world to see Orangutans in the wild  ( the other is Sumatra ), Borneo is covered by lush, 140 million years old rainforest, and it’s considered one of the “lungs” of the planet. Home to thousands of endemic species,  Borneo’s fantastic biodiversity ranks among the top of the world .

In our itinerary, we’ll explore Borneo from one of the most significant natural parks on the planet – Tanjung Puting. The same place where Dr. Birute Galdikas began her career studying the behavior of rescued and orphaned orangutans in 1971 (and doing so to this day!).

The bad thing about Borneo is that you can’t really explore its forests and wildlife without a tour. If you’ve read anything else on this blog, you probably know I hate organized tours. Having a fixed schedule and being told what to do and see just isn’t my thing.

Having said that,  the tour I had in Borneo, was the very best I’ve ever had!  The two lazy days spent on the boat in Tanjung Puting is a memory I’d cherish till the rest of my days. If you decide to do just one thing from this 2 week Indonesia itinerary, I strongly suggest Borneo.

The island is simply unparalleled! Read more about my  Borneo adventure  and find tour prices, recommendations and day to day review!

Day 10-12: Komodo

As amazing as Borneo is, the tour around Tanjung Puting was missing one thing – beaches. I mean, you’re in Indonesia,  you need to explore some tropical islands too , right? Next stop on our 2 weeks in Indonesia is the Komodo Islands aka  one of the new Seven Wonders of the World! Your day ten will be spent mostly traveling from Borneo to Labuan Bajo ( the gateway village to the Komodo Islands ). You’d still have enough time to catch a lovely sunset in the evening.

Day 11 and 12, you want to spend  exploring beaches  ( there is a pink one! ),  spot some marine wildlife  ( either by snorkeling or diving, Komodo has one of the most biodiverse marine wildlife on the planet ) and  meeting some Komodo Dragons  ( huge lizards you can’t find anywhere else in the world )! Just like our previous destination, there is no other way to do it without an organized tour.

Read more about my experience of a  2-day boat trip around Komodo Islands  with prices, covered spots, and contact information.

Day 13-14: Bali

The last days of your 2 weeks in Indonesia are best spent at the place your flight back home is. Like I said in the begging, there is  no better place than Bali  for that. Book a hotel close to the airport and just enjoy your last hours in this incredible country, drinking another coconut cocktail by your pool!

More Than 2 Weeks in Indonesia

As mentioned, Indonesia is an incredible land you can spend months and months in and never manage to see everything. If you have more time to spend these are the best places to enrich your Indonesian itinerary.

Nusa Penida

An untamed piece of tropical paradise, Nusa Penida is often described as  “what Bali used to be 30 years ago” . Due to an increased Instagram popularity, this is about to change soon so its best to see it as soon as possible.

If you want to experience the island thoroughly, you need to spend at least a night on it and get up early to catch the best spots free of people. If you don’t have the time to do it, just  book a day tour  and scroll around the most popular places. Don’t expect to have them for your own, though.

Nusa Penida truly is  one of the most picturesque places on earth . The Broken Beach coastal formation and the natural pool of Angel’s Billabong seem like taken straight out of a postcard!

And what about the biggest star of the island – Kelingking Beach? Also known as the T-Rex of Bali, this incredible cliff offers not only an incredible spot for your next profile picture, but also the most beautiful beach in the world ( no joke here, Kelingking Beach is the epitome of tropical beaches, and nothing I’ve seen gets even close to it ).

There is a catch though .

To get down the cliff and reach the beach is not an easy task. Just going down can take you up to two hours of dangerous repelling with nothing but loosely spiked sticks for support. And then you have to go up…under the ruthless Indonesian sun. If you don’t trust your fitness levels that much, you’re better just admiring it from the top.

There are plenty of offers about Nusa Penida. If you’re going there mostly for the photos,  an Instagram Tour  is your best option. If you want to enjoy nature, but you don’t fancy organizing the trip yourself, this is the regular tour organized by a top-rated operator  and this is a premium tour that focuses on less crowded spots . Both of the tours are top-rated and guarantee an effortless adventure.

If you’re into snorkeling, Nusa Penida is one of the best places in the country to  go under the water with giant Manta Rays ! And if you’re not a fan of organized trips, you can simply  rent a car + driver (very handy for this island) and explore on your own.

To understand what Raja Ampat is, you better check out its nickname –  The Last Paradise on Earth . The out-worldly Indonesia archipelago lies in the Coral Triangle ( Philippines, Timor, Papua New Guinea ) and it’s among  the most biodiverse places on earth ! Home to numerous endemic species and three-quarters of the world’s coral varieties, Raja Ampat, is the Mecca for divers.

Diving is not your thing? No problem!  There are over 1,500 wild tropical islands to explore and enjoy .

Now you probably wonder: How come I’ve never heard of this place?  What’s the catch? And you’re completely right. There is a catch – the place is  quite remote and not that easy to reach . You need to fly to the nearby city of Sorong and coordinate a boat to wait for you and take you to your hotel/homestay. There aren’t many hotels, and the homestays truly are homestays.  The conditions are often just basic  while the prices ( including the region Eco tax ) are quite steep.

Nevertheless, if you’re ready to leave the western comfort behind for a while,  Raja Ampat truly is this secret paradise  that can take you away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world and immerse you in nature’s last Garden of Eden.

Finding a place to stay in Raja Ampat is a bit tricky . While Booking and some other hotel sites do have several offerings, your best bet to find a good accommodation ( and a ton of information about the archipelago ) is  this site .

Pronounced ‘Jogjakarta’ but often called just Yogya, ‘Jogja’, this metropolitan city is home to over 400 thousand people ( 4 million in the area ).

Yogyakarta, alongside its twin city Surakarta used to be the center of the 8th–10th century’s Mataram Kingdom and it’s considered to be  the birthplace of the civilization on Java . And while there are a few picturesque caves (  Jomblang Cave is a top choice! ), an ancient Volcano and even some sandboard-perfect dunes, the main attraction, people flocks to Yogyakarta for, are  the Prambanan and Borobudur Temples.

Built in the 9th century, Prambanan is the  largest Hindu temple in the country . It’s dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The temple is built in ancient Indian style with spiral towers  representing Mount Meru – the home of the Gods .

Prambanan is considered to be made by the Hindu Sanjaya Dynasty as an answer to the Buddhist Sailendra Dynasty’s temple – Borobudur.

Speaking of Borobudur, this  UNESCO Wolrd Heritage Site is the biggest Buddhist temple in the world  and also one of the most visited touristic attraction in Indonesia.

The massive temples measuring 123 x 123 meters is decorated 504 Buddha statues and staggering 2,672 relief panels depicting various events from Buddha’s life next to important Buddhist scripts. The cherry on the top is literally on the top. 72 Stupas, each containing a Buddha statue inside, surround one  massive Stupa that is a symbol of the enlightened mind .

Greeting the sunrise in the temple is one of the most popular attractions in Indonesia. If you decide to put it in your itinerary, check out  everything you need to know about sunrise in Borobudur .

A large island in the western part of the country,  just a mention of Sumatra can spark a wanderlust of exotic adventure . A land famous for its wildlife, Sumatra is one of the only two places in the world where you can see Orangutans in the wild ( the other is Borneo, which is already part of our 2 week Indonesia itinerary ).

It’s also  a place to see the endangered Sumatran tiger and if you’re very very lucky – a Sumatran rhinoceros! There are also a few small islands in the area, like Nias and Mentawai Islands, perfect for the surf enthusiasts.

How come Sumatra is not on the 2 week Indonesia itinerary? The wildlife is quite hard to spot, and for me, Borneo and Komodo are the superior experiences.

Gili Islands

A group of 3 small islands east of Bali, the Gili Islands are considered to be  the embodiment of tropical paradise . Turquoise waters fringed by white sands and coconut palms.

Sounds good, right?  Here comes the best part, there are  no cars and motorbikes on the Gili islands  – something impossible to find anywhere else in Sout-East Asia.  Gili Islands are just made for relaxation .

Why aren’t they in the main itinerary? Well, besides being a beach bum, there are very few things to do there. If, however, you visit Indonesia with the primary intention to catch some sun on a postcard-perfect beach, Gili Islands your place!

You can visit Gili Islands on an  organized multi-day trip from Bali  or you can simply get speed boat tickets from Sanur pier and explore them on your own.

The Ijen Volcano

Kawah Ijen is a volcano located in eastern Java, between Mount Bromo and Bali. A lot of tourists that go for Bromo set Ijen in their itinerary too because… if you gonna climb a volcano, why not climb two?

But Ijen is not just another volcano. While it may look regular by day, if you make the effort to climb it at night ( and you definitely should! ), you’d enjoy a fantastic light show. The high sulfur deposits of the volcano create one of the most extraterrestrial views on the planet –  the Blue flames of Ijen! Why is Ijen not part of the 2 week Indonesia itinerary? With your limited time, I want to show you every aspect of the country. And while Ijen is  definitely an incredible sight , it requires a hefty night trek. Also, I still rate the Bromo experience to be the superior one.

You can visit Ijen, Bromo and still save time is  via organized tour  but have in mind the experience to either of the volcanos won’t be as good as doing it yourself.

Indonesia FAQ

Exploring Indonesia is not hard by any means, however, there are a few things you better know before you set your foot in the land of giants.

What is the best time to visit Indonesia?

There are two seasons in Indonesia – wet and dry.  The dry season is between May and October while the wet one goes from November through April  ( January and February being the worst ). The peak tourist season is quite naturally in the dry season, mostly between June and September  (the summer months in the northern hemisphere ).

However, I would argue  those are not the best months to visit . Everything is twice the price, and there are huge crowds everywhere you go.

The wet season in Indonesia is not that bad at all . Unlike other tropical countries, Indonesian rain period consists of short, but intensive pours and the temperatures rarely go under 28 C. More about the weather inIndonesia

Money in Indonesia

In most of the big cities and Bali, It’s  easy to pay via card . Some of the more remote places though ( like Bromo, Borneo or even around Borobudur ) would accept cash only.

When you exchange money, don’t do it with significant amounts.  1 USD is more than 15 000 Indonesian Rupiahs . The largest bill currently is of 100 000 Rupiahs. So unless you want to transport your money in a separate suitcase,  mind the amounts you’re exchanging . See the latest IDR rates.

How is the Internet in Indonesia?

The Internet is  not Indonesia’s strong side.  A relatively new communication medium in the country, the speed of download using 4G LTE was only ranked 74th in the world.

In Bali, there won’t be any trouble. Bali is the hottest spot for digital nomads and influencers. Other parts of the country though… Even if you get a local SIM card ( something you most definitely should do ),  don’t expect a lot of coverage around Mount Bromo, Borneo, the Komodo Islands or Raja Ampat . For me, a few days off the grid was more of a welcome retreat than an inconvenience but it’s good to have it in mind.

Back to the local SIM card.  Don’t buy them at the airport!  The price is 3-4 times as high there.  Telkomsel  offers the best 4G coverage around the country but are more expensive and have very confusing packages ( you got youtube MBs, social media MBs and stuff like that ). If you get one of their cards, be prepared to run out of internet way before you reach the quota.

XL  is the other big operator in the country. They are cheaper and have clear data packages, but their 4G coverage is not as good as Telkomsel.

Probably the best option is to  buy the SIM card online  and have it waiting for you at the airport. There ‘re different options to chose from and you’re sure you won’t be scammed.

Transportation around Indonesia

There are plenty of ways of transportation around Indonesia. With 22 air carriers and 230 airports, taking a domestic flight would be the most convenient option. If you’re not that into flying,  there is a vast transportation network of buses and trains. Something worth noticing is transportation around Bali. Renting a scooter is the easiest way to get around the island but the traffic is so chaotic I don’t recommend getting one unless you’re very confident in your skills. This is the reason I’ve listed plenty of private driver options to help you reach the scattered Bali attractions.

Is Indonesia safe?

Honestly, there wasn’t a moment in Indonesia that I felt unsafe. The local people are among the friendliest in the world and are always there to help you.  To travel to Indonesia without travel insurance is way big of a risk though .

The Indonesian airlines are not the most reputable in the world, and it’s  not a rare case to be delayed or to have your luggage lost . Moreover, you’re going to Indonesia for an adventure, and  travel insurance  would certainly set your mind at ease when you are climbing a volcano or trekking around a rain forest.

I currently use  HeyMondo  for my travels because they have proven themselves to me more than once over the years. The link above will give you a 5% discount, but If you have another favorite provider, that’s ok. Just make sure you have one because you never know what may happen.

That’s all from me, I hope you found everything you need for your 2 weeks in Indonesia . ———————————— If you haven’t planned your trip there yet, find out how I plan my trips! ———————————— I have 22 bucket list ideas for Indonesia. See my impossible bucket list of 1700+ adventures!

Is Indonesia on your bucket list?

Some of the above are affiliate links and I will earn a percentage of the sale if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you. This helps keep my site running – so thanks in advance for your support!

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

good tour itinerary for Bali. I will follow your tour itinerary for our friend.

Best regards - www.inclusivebalitour.com

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

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

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

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

This post might contain affiliate links. More details here .

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

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

Day 1 – arriving in Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Ubud:

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

Read more: How to plan a perfect trip to Asia

Day 2 – get a bali feel.

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – time for Gili islands

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

Where to stay in Gili Air:

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

Day 4 – explore the underwater paradise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – back to Bali

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – bali interior.

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bali, Munduk:

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

Day 7 – Munduk waterfalls

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

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

On the way we visited:

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

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

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

Where to stay in Pemuteran:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 10 – climbing the active volcano

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

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

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

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

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

*Day 11 – Sunrise above Bromo and departure

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

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

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

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

What to pack for the Indonesia trip

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

Map for the Indonesia 10 days travel itinerary

Posted: 2018, Updated: 2023

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

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

Thanks for a very detailed guide! 🙂

Thanks for stopping by!

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

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

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

Thanks, Dani!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck and enjoy!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glad you like it! 😉

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

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

Thanks for this post!

I can highly recommend it 🙂

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

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

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

Thanks, Marie!

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

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

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

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

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2 Weeks in Indonesia: 2 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

With over 17,000 islands under its governance , Indonesia features attractions and excitement for everyone, from diving in relatively untapped waters to visiting ancient temples and climbing active volcanoes. Apart from the “main region” of Indonesia, it also shares the island of Borneo with Malaysia.

Off the coast of the Southeast Asian continent, between the Pacific and Indian oceans, is the nation of Indonesia. The countries of East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and Malaysia border it. It is also part of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), a geopolitical union.

The first time I went to Indonesia , I only had a limited time of one week, and I spent it on the island of Bali. During my second visit, I travelled for 14 days, and this time, I mainly explored East Java.

Whatever you decide, the 2 weeks in Indonesia experience will undoubtedly leave you wanting to visit Indonesia again. I made two travel itineraries to help you decide which places you want to include when creating your own travel plan .

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING INDONESIA

Indonesia is relatively easy to navigate, but there are a few things to be aware of before travelling there.

When visiting this unique and beautiful country, it’s always important to be prepared, from knowing how to navigate the top tourist destinations and islands to learning the preferred mode of payment. Before visiting Indonesia, here are a few essential travel tips that can come in handy.

CHECK-OUT: 2 weeks in Vietnam and 2 weeks in the Philippines and 2 weeks in Laos

When is the best time to go to Indonesia

The tropical climate of Indonesia features two distinct seasons, namely dry and wet . The dry season spans from April to October and is the ideal time to travel to Indonesia. The weather is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, surfing, and seeing all of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations during these months.

If you must travel from June to September, be prepared for higher costs and many tourists as it is the peak season.

In contrast, the wet season lasts from November to March. January is when it rains the most, so you better avoid that.

Personally, I think the best time to visit is in March or October . March won’t be too busy yet, while October is when most tourists are about to leave due to typhoons approaching.

Are 2 weeks enough for Indonesia

Indonesia has 17,000 islands. I think it’s safe to say that 1 4 days in Indonesia is not enough to travel to every beautiful spot in this country. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t visit Indonesia without limited time. Many people arrive here and only spend a few days or weeks.

Having limited time means you can visit the locations that matter greatly to you . Then, if you like it, you can also come back later and explore new areas – just like what I did!

If you only have 2 weeks in Indonesia, it’s best to focus on one island only or 3-4 well-located cities. Having a basic idea of places you want to visit will help you make the most of your time.

Getting around

If you desire shorter and more reliable boat rides, your best bet is the ferry transfers between islands . The most efficient transportation across Java Island is by train , and you can purchase a transport card at MRT stations or select Transjakarta bus stops.

Due to the low cost and constant availability, buses continue to be Indonesia’s primary mode of mainland transportation . But getting around the cities, you can use ride-hailing apps such as Gojek and Grab. On these apps, you can book a private car, taxi, and even motorbike.

For those who value punctuality, you can opt for flying between islands . Indonesia’s public transport network is significantly inadequate. You’ll have more freedom to travel to remote areas if you have your own vehicle or rent one with a local driver.

Language and currency

Indonesia’s primary language is called Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) . You don’t have to worry as much for travellers since English is spoken in areas popular amongst foreign visitors.

While Indonesia and Malaysia have many similarities, your attempts to learn the language will benefit you when visiting Sarawak, Sabah, and Malaysia.

The main currency in Indonesia is the rupiah (IDR) . While most tourist attractions accept cards, I suggest carrying enough cash with you at all times. Some tourist agencies might accept payments in other major currencies, but not lal.

One of the very few countries in the world with an open and accessible visa policy is Indonesia. Most visitors can stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days by receiving a visa on arrival for $30 or applying for an evisa online . Those with a passport issued by an ASEAN country can enter and stay in Indonesia without paying for a visa.

I personally prefer applying for an evisa in advance so I don’t have to waste my time at the airport filling out a form and standing in line. Plus, in this way, you already paid for your visa online and don’t need to use your USD or other major currency when paying.

Suppose your passport is from Africa, Central Asia, and many parts of the Gulf countries and Central Asia. In that case, you might need to apply for a visa at the nearest Indonesian Embassy . Travellers with passports issued by South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia can receive a 30-day visa upon arrival.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Indonesia

Travelling around Indonesia is not too expensive. A stay in a hotel for a double room costs about $10-$20 a night; a hostel dorm bed is between $7-$10. For eating out, you can quickly get a nice meal for $1-$2, including food along the street.

If you want to sit in a nicer restaurant, around $3-$4 is reasonable. Imported liquor is expensive here, but local beer is affordable. Transportation is also very cheap in Indonesia by land, sea, and domestic flights.

A $1,000 for one person for 2 weeks in Indonesia is more than enough budget . For those willing to stay in dorm rooms, $800 is doable , and for luxury, for $2,500, you’ll travel around comfortably – all excluding flights to and from Indonesia.

Other basic travel tips

The list below will help you plan and book your travel arrangements. I like to book at least the first two nights in advance and then book the rest later.

But that only works if you are travelling during the off-season. In peak season, the best hotels get snatched fast. I also like these websites because they let me cancel for free, even until the last minute.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE IN INDONESIA

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN INDONESIA ITINERARY

If you wish to travel for 14 days weeks in Indonesia but don’t know where to begin, then this guide is for you . With this two-week itinerary for Indonesia, which features the top attractions and things to do, you can create the ideal trip with your friends and loved ones or even as a solo traveller.

The places you can go on particular days are listed below. I also added what you could do in each city to maximize your vacation in Indonesia. There are 2 sample itineraries that you may choose and modify to fit your 14 days in Indonesia.

>> MUST-READ: How to spend 2 weeks in Thailand and 2 weeks in India

Itinerary #1: First Time (Jakarta, Mt Bromo, Bali, Lombok/Gili Islands)

T he “Emerald of the Equator” offers everything a traveller might desire . This includes mouthwatering street food, breathtaking beaches, and historic temples. But with so many places to visit and things to do in Indonesia, organising the perfect trip might be challenging.

This itinerary will take you from the nation’s capital, Jakarta, through Bali, one of the most well-known islands, and finally to Gili Trawangan , where you can see green sea turtles.

Overall, this itinerary will provide first-time travellers with a fantastic overview of all that this amazing country has to offer.

Jakarta for 3 days

Begin your adventure at Jakarta , Indonesia’s vibrant capital, which is a cultural melting pot of traditions from Arab, Indian, Malay, and Javanese. Here, you can explore Taman Mini Indonesia Indah to glimpse traditional homes. Visit the Old Town to admire Jakarta’s architecture from the colonial period.

Javanese and Malay traditions coexist with Arab, Indian, and Dutch customs. Visit Taman Mini Indonesia Indah to see models of traditional residences from all of Indonesia’s 17,000+ islands. Visit Jakarta’s Old Town to see the deteriorating colonial architecture.

Mount Bromo for 3 days

Mount Bromo, an active volcano, is a component of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. To get the best view of the volcano from the peak of Mount Penanjakan , hikers frequently depart from the nearby mountain town of Cemoro Lawang.

The park’s environment is a mixture of tropical rainforest, a desert-like region, and a chilly zone. I advise making reservations for your stay in Malang if your agenda calls for trekking Mount Bromo.

You can easily get to Mount Bromo from Jakarta by taking a flight of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can check out two airports, one at Surabaya (Juanda International Airport) and one at Malang (Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport). There are more flights to Surabaya because it’s a bigger city.

The flight ticket is around $60 for one way , and there are about 4 flights a day. Due to ticket availability, you can do that if you have to fly to Surabaya. Then you can travel for another hour and 30 minutes by land down to Malang.

Bali for 5 days

Pura Tanah Lot, located around 20 km Northwest of Kuta, is one of Bali’s most prominent temples because of its breathtaking coastline location.

If you’re looking for romantic activities, climb Mount Batur’s 1,700 meters to the summit and witness the sun rise over the mist-shrouded mountains. Day trips to Ubud, Nusa Penida, or Mount Ijen are among Bali’s highlights.

One of the best beaches in Asia, Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida , ranks the highest for its unique beauty due to its stunning location and T-Rex-shaped cliff. If you’re a photographer or animal lover, I recommend visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

There are no direct flights from Malang to Bali . However, there is one from Surabaya, around $50. If you don’t want to travel back to Surabaya, the flight from Malang connects to Jakarta and costs about $120.

Lombok/Gili Islands for 3 days

The Gili Islands are a top attraction in Lombok , which has grown in popularity among tourists and backpackers over the years. If you want more turtle action, visit the sea turtle hatchery at Gili Trawangan, where hundreds of these animals hatch each year.

Sire Beach is among the finest beaches with a view of Lombok, with Mt. Rinjani, Indonesia’s second tallest volcano, towering in the background.

To reach Bali from Lombok , I recommend booking a nonstop flight since it would only take around 40 min. Alternatively, you can opt for a ferry journey that takes roughly 2 hr 45 min.

You can end your trip here since the beaches on these lovely islands rival Bali’s in terms of beauty, and there are also options for diving and even snorkelling at a turtle sanctuary.

Ensure to take a trip back to Bali for international flights if you are headed back home or catching a flight to another country.

Itinerary #2: Java Only, Hiking Itinerary (Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Mt Bromo, Mt Ijen

Java is a massive island that would require months to explore thoroughly. However, if you only have a limited time and want a blend of nature and adventure, I highly suggest focusing on exploring Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Mt. Bromo, and Mt. Ijen.

These destinations are for you if you want to get away from the trendy vibe and touristy beaches . On this 2 weeks in Indonesia itinerary, delve into Java’s fascinating culture and breathtaking natural surroundings. Trek to mountaintops to see volcanoes at daybreak and observe a turquoise volcanic crater.

Get a chance to see Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s cultural centre, and head to two renowned temples such as Borobudur, the grandest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Jakarta and Bandung for 4 days

Among the largest squares in the world, Merdeka Square is a 75-hectare park in the heart of Jakarta . It’s a terrific place to spend a relaxing weekend with friends, family, or alone.

Suppose you want to embark on a shopping spree. In that case, Plaza Indonesia in Central Jakarta is filled to the brim with high-end international brands, including Christian Louboutin, Kate Spade, Bulgari, and Rolex.

On the other hand, you can simply use your few days in Jakarta to plan your trips. Since you’re going a little off the path, you might have to spend a little extra time in arranging transportation.

You should also consider taking a day trip to Bandun g, also called the “Paris of Indonesia,” where you may visit Gedung Sate, the city’s emblem. If you’re into architecture, I recommend checking out Villa Isola to see its distinctive Art Deco style.

Yogyakarta for 3 days

On the island of Java, Yogyakarta is quickly gaining popularity as a destination for travellers looking for magnificent mountains, temples, and cultural attractions . Plan a day to view the sunrise at Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Buddhist temple.

Aside from that, you can also visit Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia devoted to Shiva, which is located closer to the city.

Mount Merapi, also known as “Fire Mountain, ” is Indonesia’s most active volcano at 2,911 meters. If the weather is correct, it allows for a fantastic but challenging hiking experience. If you’re looking for a quick trip, I highly recommend travelling from Jakarta to Yogyakarta by plane since it would take an average of 1 hr 15 min to arrive.

Mount Bromo/Malang for 3 days

One of the best things to do here is to catch Mount Bromo’s sunrise from King Kong Hill or Seruni, which can be reached by riding a jeep. At the base of Mount Bromo, you can also stop by the Luhur Poten Hindu Temple.

Don’t miss the Rainbow Village of Jodipan near Malang, where you may get some fantastic photos against a vibrant background.

Given that Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is among Indonesia’s most outstanding waterfalls, I suggest taking a day trip there from Malang.

Getting to Mount Bromo from Jakarta is pretty straightforward . After all, it’s such a popular destination in Indonesia. The best and most convenient way is to take a quick flight.

You can look at two places – the airport near Surabaya (Juanda International Airport) or the one near Malang (Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport). Most people prefer Malang because it’s much closer to Mount Bromo.

The flight is about 1 hr and 30 minutes , non-stop, and the ticket usually costs $60 for one way. I recommend you stay in Malang, but if the flights don’t align, fly to Surabaya and then travel down to Malang right away.

Mount Ijen for 3 days 

You can end your trip with Mount Ijen , most famous for its unique blue fire and the world’s largest acid lake. Aside from that, the area is home to numerous hills and volcanoes, which are absolutely breathtaking.

If you’re planning to see the Blue Fire, I suggest you do it with a guide to ensure you don’t miss it.

The train system is your best bet for a comfortable and preferred method to reach Ijen from Bromo. You can expect the train trip from Bromo to Ijen, which spans 140 km (miles) depending on the base camp’s location, to take an average of 4.5-6 hr.

I advise making reservations at Banyuwang i for your accommodations before heading outdoors. It takes roughly 1 hour to get to Kawah Ijen campsite from the starting location of the climb, and it takes approximately another 2 hours to hike at a moderate pace before reaching the peak.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Now, to the fun part – the must-see places in Indonesia. Below, I arranged them by city, so it’s easier to see. Check the map above, which you can make a copy of to help you see where everything is.

• National Monument (Monas)
• Old Jakarta/Old Town (Kota Tua)
• Jakarta Arts and Heritage District
• Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
• Plaza Indonesia
• Jakarta Planetarium
• Presidential Palace
• Jakarta Cathedral
• Visit Jakarta’s top spots with a local guide – check the tour price
• Day trip to Bandung
• Istiqlal Mosque
• Ciater Hot Spring – combine a day trip with a volcano day hike
• Merdeka Square
• Thousand Islands
• Day trip to Kawah Putih – join a group tour
• Ancol Dreamland Themepark
• Ragunan Zoo
• Setu Babakan
• Basuki Abdullah Museum
• Book a full-day tour in Bandung

Mount Bromo/Malang

• Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour is the most popular, but you can also for a 2-day 1-night trip
• Luhur Poten Temple
• Mount Penanjakan
• Savannah Hill
• Ngadas Village
• House of Sampoerna
• Cheng Hoo Mosque
• Heroes Monument
• Ria Kenjeran Beach
• Nusa Dua Beach – join an all-included tour
• Seminyak Beach
• Tegalalang and Jatiluwih
• Scuba diving and snorkelling – check this snorkelling at Blue Lagoon (all-inclusive) tour
• Yoga Retreat
• Get incredible photos with this – Instagram highlights tour
• Go surfing at Canggu Beach or party at the Canggu area
• Mount Batur – do a sunrise tour, read this tour reviews first
• White Water Rafting
• Silver Jewelry making class – available in Ubud
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Tibumana Waterfalls – Bali waterfalls tours will be perfect for this
• Tirta Empul Temple
• Uluwatu – join a sunset tour for Uluwatu with Kecak dance and dinner
• Cultural Village Kertalangu
• Tanah Lot – sign up for this private tour
• Traditional Balinese spa treatment
• Day trip to Ubud – All-inclusive Ubud day tour or maybe this tour instead with the famous Jungle Swing or an ATV tour or a monkey tour with rice terraces
• Day trip to Seminyak
• Waterbom – have fun at a waterpark
• Cooking class and food tour
• Get a private car to explore Bali with a local driver – see the price first

Lombok/Gili Islands

• Explore Lombok via a full day tour
• Kuta Beach, Senggigi Beach, and Pink Beach
• Tetebatu – go to a waterfall and monkey forest
• Rice terraces of Lombok
• Party on Gili Trawangan
• Lingsar Temple and the Mayura Temple
• Mount Rinjani and the Sendang Gile Waterfall (hiking) – 3 days and 2 nights tour or 2 days and 1 night tour
• Cooking classes and Food tour
• Yoda and Meditation class
• Tiu Kelep Waterfall (white rafting)
• Lombok Elephant Park (rescued elephants)
• Traditional village of Sade (Sasak people)
• Air Kalak Hotsprings
• Go Snorkelling – read this snorkelling tour reviews or this half-day tour
• Kuta Lombok Beach
• Sekotong Islands
• Book a one-way transfer from Bali to Lombok or Gili
• Tangkuban Perahu Crater
• Saung Angklung Udjo
• Bandung City Square (Alun-Alun Bandung)
• Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB)
• Pasar Baru Trade Center
• Bandung Geological Museum
• Bandung Creative Economy Center (BCEC)
• Mount Burangrang and the Pangandaran Nature Reserve (hiking)
• Book this tailor-made tour and decide which places you want to visit in just a day
• Sultan’s Palace (Kraton Yogyakarta)
• Yogyakarta Art Gallery
• Malioboro Street market – join a cooking class with market tour
• Taman Sari Water Castle
• Mount Merbabu and Mount Merapi (hiking) – or do a jeep safari
• Yogyakarta Batik Museum
• Yogyakarta Bird Park
• Yogyakarta Night Market
• Borobudur Temple – enjoy a sunrise visit with stops at Merapi Volcano and Prambanan or do the sunrise from Setumbu Hill
• The Taman Sari
• Kalibiru National Park
• Setumbu Hill
• Tour the Royal Route – you can do it on a bicycle
• Sewu Temple
• Ullen Sentalu Museum
• Pinus Pengger
• Book a food walking tour and learn about Indonesian cuisine
• Plaosan Temple
• Candi Lumbung
• Jomblang Cave – with a combo tour to Timang Beach
• Merapi Volcano
• Overnight trip to Mount Bromo from Yogyakarta – look at the itinerary
• Ijen Crater sunrise hike
• Mount Ijen Blue Fire Trekking tour
• Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater 3-day tour
• Sukamade Beach
• Meru Betiri National Park
• Jagir Waterfall
• Jawatan Benculuk
• Overnight trip to Ijen Crater from Bali – look at the price

MUST-TRY INDONESIAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

Because Indonesia is such a diverse country, it’s not surprising how multicultural the food is as well. There are lots of dishes to try while you are in Indonesia; see if you can at least give 3-5 dishes a shot and find out what you think:

• Nasi Goreng (fried rice)
• Gado-Gado (salad)
• Satay (meat skewers)
• Bakso (meatball soup)
• Soto (soup)
• Rendang (stew)
• Nasi Kuning (rice dish)
• Mie Goreng (stir-fried noodles)
• Rujak (fruit salad)
• Matarbak (stuffed pancake)
• Es campur (shaved ice)
• Ketan hitam, Pulut into, Klepon (glutinous rice with coconut milk)
• Teh botol (sweetened iced tea)
• Es teler (cold fruity drink)
• Bajigur (warm coconut milk drink)
• Bandre (warm ginger drink)

ACCOMMODATIONS (by city)

You’re almost done planning your 2 weeks in Indonesia. The last piece of the puzzle is finding a place to stay in each city. This part will do that job for you. Below is a list of accommodations in Indonesia arranged by city and your budget.

• Affordable: Wonderloft Hostel or Sleepy Raccoon Hostel
• Mid-range: Ashley Tanah Abang or Juno Tanah Abang
• Luxury: The Hermitage or Four Seasons Hotel
• Affordable: Smart Tlogomas or Shinta Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Royal Orchids Garden Hotel or Ascent Premiere Hotel
• Luxury: Plantaran Bromo or Hotel Tugu Malang

Bali (Canggu)

• Affordable: The Tipsy Gypsy Hostel or Serenity Eco Guesthouse
• Mid-range: The Calmtree Bungalows or D’djabu Villas
• Luxury: Regali Villa or Blossom Exco Luxe Villas
• Affordable: Kamar Suci House or Dijumahrai Homestay
• Mid-range: Goya Boutique Resort or Alamdini Resort
• Luxury: Beehouse Dijiwa or Villa Kayu Lama
• Affordable: The Pondok or Indah Homestay
• Mid-range: Gili Teak Beach Front Resort or Vila Ombak
• Luxury: Batatu Villas or Nero North
• Affordable: Buton Backpacker Lodge or Tokyo Cubo
• Mid-range: ibis Hotel or Novotel
• Luxury: Art Deco Luxury Hotel and Residences or Swiss-Belresort Dago Heritage or Hilton Bandung
• Affordable: Puri Pangeran Hotel or Omah Pathok
• Mid-range: Hotel Neo by Aston or Ayaartta Hotel
• Luxury: Marriott Hotel or Novotel Suites or Melia Purosani

Mount Ijen (Banyuwangi)

• Affordable: Ijen Backpacker or Illira Hotel or Banana Homestay
• Mid-range: Java Turtle Lodge or Robiu Bed and Breakfast
• Luxury: Aston Hotel or Ijen Resorts and Villas

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN INDONESIA

That wraps up these epic two weeks in Indonesia travel itineraries. As you can see, this country is home to a massive variety of stunning locations, including museums, temples, pristine islands, and volcanoes waiting for you to explore. Spending 2 weeks in Indonesia, you’ll have a well-rounded view of this breathtaking South East Asian archipelago.

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4 thoughts on “2 Weeks in Indonesia: 2 Itineraries”

There’s no map link 🤦‍♂️

Hi! It’s under the heading of “Pinned Map”, just before you reach the itinerary section

Thank you for this comprehensive guide. I am a mother of three teenage girls and we plan to spend 17 days in Indonesia. I was wondering, would you have any recommendations for us since we are all female, is it safe? also, is it expected to tip for services, and how much? I was also thinking to reduce the itinerary to 3 places since we arrive at and fly from Jakarta (I Worry we will be spending too much time in airports if we go to too many far places that require a plan, also if we travel by train would it be safe?) Lastly, do they have Ubur services? Thank you

Hi Najwa, Indonesia is generally safe. Many solo female travellers go there on their own, even as young as 18. But, of course, take precautions such as not riding a taxi that doesn’t have a meter or printed taxi paint, don’t go out too late at night on your own, and be cautious of strangers. Indonesia doesn’t have a tipping culture similar to the US. However, if you really enjoyed the service, a small tip is valued, I usually give a dollar equivalent in local currency regardless of the total bill.

I agree with you, it’s best to limit to 3 places; let’s say Jakarta, Mount Bromo, and Bali, then fly back to Jakarta a day before your flight. But keep in mind, there are lots of day trips you can do. For example, from Jakarta, you can go Badung on a day trip. From Denpasar, you can do a day trip to Ubud, so you’ll still see plenty of places by choosing 3 major cities. For ride hailing app, you can use Gojek and Grab. Train travel is limited, but the domestic flights are reliable and can be much faster option if there are no connections. I hope this helps!

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Indonesia Travel Guide

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

Best time to visit Indonesia

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

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

Bali Travel Guide: The Ultimate 3-Week Itinerary

16 best things to do in canggu, bali, 15 best things to do in ubud, bali, tips for the most beautiful places on nusa penida, bali.

Java Travel Guide: Best Things to do (8-day Route)

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

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• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

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.

Discover the best travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Jakarta's Historical Sites

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Bandung

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Bandung

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Borobudur & Prambanan

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Yogyakarta's Kraton

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: South Bali

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Central Bali

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Taking it Easy in Ubud

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

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

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

Day 8: Tanjung Benoa

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

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

3 Weeks in Indonesia: A Fully Loaded Itinerary

Ten Unforgettable Bandung, Indonesia Experiences

Top Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Bali's Regions & Beaches, Decoded

The Top 15 Things to Do in Indonesia

10 Best Things to Do in South Bali

The Yogyakarta Kraton, Central Java, Indonesia

Bali Guide: Planning Your Trip

Guide to Bali's Watersports Hotspot Tanjung Benoa

Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia

Art Galleries & Museums in Ubud, Bali

8 Top Cultural and Natural Explorations to Discover in East Bali

How to Ride a Taxi in Bali, Indonesia

Dos and Don'ts in Bali, Indonesia

How to Cope When a Tsunami Strikes Bali

The 10 Best Restaurants in Bali

3 Weeks in Indonesia Itinerary

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Indonesia is a country between Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Pacific and Indian oceans. Amazingly, it is the world’s largest island country and archipelagic state, as well as the 14th largest country in the world by land mass.

Over the past few years, Indonesia has been one of the most popular beach destinations in Southeast Asia. I’ve been to Indonesia twice, and I can tell you confidently that I have not explored all its islands yet.

Indonesia has over 17,000 islands and is surrounded by various bodies of water , it boasts a myriad of scenic and serene islands and beaches. Indonesia is a tropical country offering stunning beaches, surfing spots, yoga retreats , and cool active volcanoes.

You’ll also find one of the biggest islands in the world here, Borneo, which has extensive biodiversity when it comes to plants, animals, and culture. And we’re just getting started. Read on to discover what else you’re going to find if you spend 3 weeks in Indonesia.

RELATED POST: Best beaches for a summer vacation

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO INDONESIA

Indonesia can be hard to navigate due to its geographic appearance. It can also be confusing to decide when is the best time to visit. But the travel tips below will help you plan a 3-week itinerary for Indonesia.

ALSO CHECK: 3 weeks in the Philippines or 3 Weeks in Thailand

When is the best time to go to Indonesia

The summer season in Indonesia is from June to August, which is also the peak season and the best time to visit. The rainy season is from December to March, these are the months you should really avoid.

Although a majorly Muslim country, the Christmas season (December) can get very busy in Indonesia due to foreign visitors visiting during this month. If you plan to come here at that time, book your accommodations at least 6 months in advance.

Are 3 weeks enough for Indonesia

Indonesia has lots of islands, although the main attractions are located on the bigger islands where domestic flights are frequent and affordable.

Spending 3 weeks in Indonesia gives you plenty of time to explore its cities, hike its active volcanoes, and catch some waves on the surfing islands. But stick to seeing 4-5 citie s to ensure that you’re not wasting your time travelling from one city to another.

Average cost of 20 days in Indonesia

On average, a single traveller could spend around $1,200 for a 3-week trip in Indonesia . This includes a stay in a private room at a mid-range hotel, eating out for food, and booking tours.

If you’re a b ackpacker, you can do this trip for $900. You will be staying in hostels, dining on street food, and choosing more affordable tours.

Of course, for those interested in a luxury adventure in Indonesia, $2,400 is a great budget plan. Sleep in five-star resorts, try out high-end restaurants and book luxurious tours.

These budgets are for individual people. If you are travelling as a couple of two friends, you can share the private room and save a bit on accommodation. Food, hotel, and transportation are not expensive in Indonesia. You’ll most likely spend more on booking domestic flights, but still on the affordable side.

These numbers don’t include your flight to and from Indonesia, travel insurance, and travel gear. But you can check this Bali holiday budget breakdown to better understand the cost.

What to pack

Packing for 3 weeks in Indonesia depends on the activities you plan to do. For example,e if you want to do some serious hiking, make sure to bring proper hiking shoes or boots. If you want to spend more time surfing or on the beach, bring 3-4 swimwear.

Those planning to visit temples have to dress properly before entering sacred places. Check our packing list for a summer vacation .

How to get around

To get around Indonesia, the modes of transportation available are taxis, car rentals , trains, planes, and buses. Since it is an island, it relies heavily on ferries and water taxis for transportation. The fastest option would be to fly but this is only advisable for far-flung islands.

The most affordable and convenient option is to ride the bus . If you opt to admire the rural scenery then boarding the train is the perfect option for you, although it’s primarily available in Java. A car rental is also a great option.

Language and currency

The language that is most spoken in Indonesia is called Bahasa Indonesia, followed by Javanese. Some useful words/phrases that tourists could use when in Indonesia include 

• selamat Pagi – good morning
• selamat sore – good evening
• selamat malam – good night
• Permisi pak – excuse me sir
• permisi bu – excuse me ma’am
• sampai jumpa – goodbye
• terima kasih – thank you

Indonesia’s official currency is Rupiah . Cash is still the most widely used mode of payment, especially in remote locations. In Bali, Visa and Mastercard are commonly used. 

Passengers in the ASEAN region can enjoy a visa-free period of 30 days. That includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor Leste.

Prior to 2023, most nationalities can enjoy a 30-day visa-free when travelling to Indonesia. However, since mid-2023, the government has removed almost 150+ countries from the visa-free list . Now, you must apply for an evisa (e-VOA) or pay for a visa on arrival, both are valid for 30 days.

Getting one online will save you time from filling out the information, waiting in line, waiting in the payment queue, and lining up for a stamp right after you land.

If you apply for an eVOA before your arrival, you must go straight to the immigration officer and show your eVOA. The processing time of eVOA is around 5 days, you can also do an express. If you’re out of time, go for a visa on arrival instead.

Package tours

You can also book a package tour for 3 weeks in Indonesia if you want to avoid the hassle of planning and arranging multiple hotels, transport, and tours. In this way, you can relax and enjoy your vacation a lot more.

I recommend the 15 days so you have around 5 days to do anything that you want or see a place that the tour has missed.

Other travel tips

When you are planning your 20 days in Indonesia, these travel sites and tools will help you arrange your hotels, flights, car rental, and even book cooking classes and find suitable travel insurance. These sites will help you plan everything in one sitting and ensure that you will have an amazing vacation.

PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN INDONESIA

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN INDONESIA ITINERARY

If you’re planning to stay for 3-weeks in Indonesia, the most recommended places to visit are Jakarta, Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen, Yogyakarta, Bali, and Lombok.

Jakarta is a dynamic city filled with art spaces that house contemporary artworks by local and international artists. It also has old colonial buildings which are repurposed as cafes and museums, it’s basically one of those cities where historical and modern architecture mesh.

Yogyakarta is the only Indonesian region to still be ruled by a monarchy, you could personally visit some of the royalty’s residences. It also has tons of five-star hotels here that are cheaper compared to Bali, if you want to pamper yourself, this is the perfect place to do so.

Bali is a must-visit not only for those who want to see temples but also for adventurous souls . Some of the activities that you could do there besides surfing include cliff jumping, sliding down natural and man-made waterslides, hiking, and diving.

Day-to-day overview

• Day 1 : Arrive in Jakarta. Get transferred from the airport to your hotel . Find a local sim card with data and get local currency.
• Day 2 to 3 : Explore Jakarta and plan a day trip to Bandung.
• Day 4 : Travel from Jakarta to Yogyakarta by bus , plane , or train .
• Day 5 to 7 : Sightseeing around Yogyakarta.
• Day 8 : Travel from Yogyakarta to Mount Bromo (Malang) by train .
• Day 8 to 10 : Hike Mount Bromo.
• Day 11 : Travel to Ijen (Banyuwangi) via train .
• Day 12 to 14: Hike Ijen Crater
• Day 15 : Travel from Ijen/Banyuwangi to Bali by plane .
• Day 16 to 20 : Enjoy Bali Island and Lombok.

Jakarta and Bandung for 3 days

Jakarta is a concrete jungle that depicts an energetic landscape that turns into a stunning night skyline. It has many rooftop cafes where you could have a romantic dinner with a special someone or a night out with your friends.

It also is a melting pot of people of various cultures, so you’ll get to try out their foods and learn more about their history.

Aside from historical and modern structures, Jakarta have islands as well, which is perfect for those who want to experience Jakarta’s tropical side. Jakarta is an awesome place to start because a lot of international flights from Oceania, Europe, and even the Americas land in Jakarta or Bali.

You can take a day trip to Badung for a full day, depending on how much time you have, instead of spending a night in Bandung. The travel time between the two cities is around 3 to 4 hours by car or by bus .

Things to do in Jakarta

• Visit Jakarta’s top spots with a local guide – check the tour price
• Day trip to Bandung
• Istiqlal Mosque
• Ciater Hot Spring – combine a day trip with a volcano day hike
• Merdeka Square
• Thousand Islands
• Day trip to Kawah Putih – join a group tour
• Ancol Dreamland Themepark
• Ragunan Zoo
• Setu Babakan
• Basuki Abdullah Museum
• Book a full-day tour in Bandung

Accommodations in Jakarta

• Affordable: Wonderloft Hostel or Sleepy Raccoon Hostel
• Mid-range: Ashley Tanah Abang or Juno Tanah Abang
• Luxury: The Hermitage or Four Seasons Hotel

Yogyakarta for 3 days

Yogyakarta is well-known for its cultural heritage and traditional arts. It is recognized as Indonesia’s cultural hub and the country’s batik capital.

Batik is an ancient fabric wax-resist dyeing tradition in Java Indonesia . Aside from that, it is also famous for nasi gudeg , which is a must-try Javanese dish.

To reach Yogyakarta, if you’re coming from Java, the modes of transportation include train, plane, bus, and driving. The most recommended option is to board the train with a travel time of more than 7 hours.

The cheapest option is to ride a bus , but it would take approximately 10 hours. Flying would be the fastest, 1 hour.

Things to do in Yogyakarta

• Borobudur Temple – enjoy a sunrise visit with stops at Merapi Volcano and Prambanan or do the sunrise from Setumbu Hill
• The Taman Sari
• Merapi Volcano
• Kalibiru National Park
• Setumbu Hill
• Tour the Royal Route – you can do it on a bicycle
• Sewu Temple
• Plaosan Temple
• Candi Lumbung
• Ullen Sentalu Museum
• Pinus Pengger
• Book a food walking tour and learn about Indonesian cuisine
• Jomblang Cave
• Timang Beach
• Overnight trip to Mount Bromo from Yogyakarta – look at the itinerary

Accommodations in Yogyakarta

• Affordable: Puri Pangeran Hotel or Omah Pathok
• Mid-range: Hotel Neo by Aston or Ayaartta Hotel
• Luxury: Marriott Hotel or Novotel Suites or Melia Purosani

Mount Bromo for 4 days

3 weeks in Indonesia must include hiking, but not any typical hiking. During your vacation here, you must hike an active volcano. Mount Bromo is a must-visit for people who want to see an active volcano and other breathtaking views without much hiking.

Aside from that, the place is easy to access, and it offers affordable packages compared to other volcano excursions.

Aside from the volcano itself, Mount Bromo Tours is also famous for Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Ijen Crater. To get to Mount Bromo from Yogyakarta, you could board the train which would take 4 hours of travel time towards Malang, or ride the plane to Surabay a and then get picked up by your chosen travel agency’s shuttle.

Hiking just Mount Bromo would take you only 45 minutes one way . However, it would take you three days to hike Mount Bromo if you choose a combined tour with Ijen Crater (which is the most advisable tour package).

Things to do in Mount Bromo and around

• Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour is the most popular, but you can also for a 2-day 1-night trip
• Luhur Poten Temple
• Mount Penanjakan
• Savannah Hill
• Ngadas Village
• House of Sampoerna
• Cheng Hoo Mosque
• Heroes Monument
• Ria Kenjeran Beach

Accommodations in Mount Bromo

• Affordable: Smart Tlogomas or Shinta Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Royal Orchids Garden Hotel or Ascent Premiere Hotel
• Luxury: Plantaran Bromo or Hotel Tugu Malang

COMBO HIKES / TOURS

Ijen Crater for 3 days

Mount Ijen is well-known for its blue fire , which can only be seen here and in Iceland. It is also home to the world’s largest acid lake, and you can experience great sunrises here because you’ll be able to witness the sky in different hues.

Hiking just Mount Ijen would only take almost 2 hours, but some packages offer 2-day hikes wherein you can hike both Ijen Crater and Mount Bromo.

Banyuwangi is a popular base for those who want to hike Mount Ijen because you can rent a 4×4 jeep and arrive at Ijen in 1.5 hours.

Things to do in Mount Ijen or Banyuwangi

• Ijen Crater sunrise hike
• Mount Ijen Blue Fire Trekking tour
• Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater 3-day tour
• Sukamade Beach
• Meru Betiri National Park
• Jagir Waterfall
• Jawatan Benculuk
• Overnight trip to Ijen Crater from Bali – look at the price

Accommodations in Banyuwangi

• Affordable: Mango Tree Homestay or Mocca Guest House
• Mid-range: Aston Hotel or Ketapang Indah Hotel
• Luxury: Ijen Resort and Villas or Illira Hotel

Bali and Lombok for 7 days

If you’re going to stay for 20 days in Indonesia, it is imperative to stay in Bali and Lombok for at least a week. Bali is so popular that many visitors forget that it’s not a country, but an island in East Java. Bali is well-known for its idyllic beaches, captivating cultural scene, and local delicacies.

However, there’s more to Bali than meets the eye. It is a safe haven of some sort, not only physically but even mentally and spiritually. Bali is known as a surfing spot, but there’s more to it than that. You can also go temple hopping or hike through Bali’s best waterfalls .

3 weeks in Indonesia is incomplete without visiting Bali and Lombok – the two most sought-after destinations in the country in the last decade.

You can reach Bali by boat if you come from Banyuwangi and then by bus, taxi, or minivan. The boat goes every half an hour and takes around 40 minutes. From the ferry, you can take a minivan, which is about a 2 hr and 30-minute drive or a taxi.

Flying is also an option but usually requires a connection, so the travel time will not be much faster than by ferry and bus anyway.

Bali actually has a bit of everything and is suitable for everyone because, in Denpasar, there are tons of surfing spots and backpacker trails, perfect for adrenaline junkies. We also have an itinerary for 20 days in Bali .

Meanwhile, Ubud, which is north of Denpasar, is more suitable for laid-back people who want to unwind and reflect. It is well-known for the abundance of yoga retreats that you can find there.

If you have more time, I recommend you book a 4-day trip to the famous Komodo Island to see the magnificent Komodo dragons.

If you take a speed boat , you can do a day trip to Lombok from Bali or fly . But if you have the time, maybe you can spend a few nights in Lombok.

Things to do in Denpasar

• Nusa Penida Tour – book a private boat for snorkeling and see Manta Rays or compare the price with this similar tour
• Gate of Heaven
• Bali Snorkeling Tour – snorkelling at Blue Lagoon Beach
• Sign up for a surfing beginner’s class
• Tanah Lot – best to visit with a tour guide
• Taman Festival
• Waterbom Waterpark – get a single-day pass
• Sanur Beach
• Mount Batur – do a sunrise hike and visit a natural hot spring
• Bali Wake Park
• Instagram Tour – join a tour of Bali’s Instagrammable spots
• Bahra Sandhi Monument
• Go white water wafting – check the price or rafting with an ATV ride

Things to do in Ubud

• Book a package tour – visiting Ubud’s top spots or compare to this tour or an All-inclusive Ubud day tour or maybe this tour instead with the famous Jungle Swing or an ATV tour or a monkey tour with rice terraces
• Campuhan ridge walk
• Museum Puri Lukisan
• Pura Taman Saraswati
• Jungle Swing
• Gianyar Night Market
• Rice Paddies
• Monkey Forest
• Attend a yoga class at Yoga Barn
• Watch a Legong dance performance
• Agung Rai Museum of Art – join Batik making class or silver jewellery making class

Things to do in Lombok/Gili

• Explore Lombok via a full day tour
• Kuta Beach, Senggigi Beach, and Pink Beach
• Tetebatu – go to a waterfall and monkey forest
• Rice terraces of Lombok
• Party on Gili Trawangan
• Lingsar Temple and the Mayura Temple
• Mount Rinjani and the Sendang Gile Waterfall (hiking) – 3 days and 2 nights tour or 2 days and 1 night tour
• Cooking classes and Food tour
• Yoga and Meditation class
• Tiu Kelep Waterfall (white rafting)
• Lombok Elephant Park (rescued elephants)
• Traditional village of Sade (Sasak people)
• Air Kalak Hotsprings
• Go Snorkelling – read this snorkelling tour reviews or this half-day tour
• Kuta Lombok Beach
• Sekotong Islands
• Book a one-way transfer from Bali to Lombok or Gili

Accommodations in Denpansar (Canggu)

• Affordable: The Tipsy Gypsy Hostel or Serenity Eco Guesthouse
• Mid-range: The Calmtree Bungalows or D’djabu Villas
• Luxury: Regali Villa or Blossom Exco Luxe Villas

Accommodations in Ubud

• Affordable: Kamar Suci House or Dijumahrai Homestay
• Mid-range: Goya Boutique Resort or Alamdini Resort
• Luxury: Beehouse Dijiwa or Villa Kayu Lama

Accommodations in Lombok

• Affordable: The Pondok or Indah Homestay
• Mid-range: Gili Teak Beach Front Resor t or Vila Ombak
• Luxury: Batatu Villas or Nero North

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN INDONESIA ITINERARY

Indonesia has 17,000 islands, so you definitely wouldn’t run out of new islands to visit. In fact, if one plans to visit all of the islands, one would spend 49 years doing it if one visits one island per day.

Aside from that, Indonesia is one of the world’s biggest tea producers, so you can experience sipping tea straight from the source at a plantation!

Besides nature-related activities, you could also soak up cultural heritage through a plethora of temples and shrines that they have here. Pair it with various classes that they offer and you’ll certainly experience maximum cultural immersion.

Planning a vacation for 3 weeks in Indonesia shouldn’t be too overwhelming, it should be exciting and a warm-up to your well-deserved holiday. I hope this article helped you write your own travel itinerary .

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Indonesia itinerary | Highlights and hidden gems in a natural paradise

Wide smiles. Hospitable eyes. The Indonesians welcome you with so much joy and curiosity once you hit the road on your Indonesia itinerary. The country awaits you with delicious food, tropical climate and breathtaking nature. Be prepared for volcanoes with turquoise crater lakes, huge waterfalls, lush rice fields and ancient rain forests.

Table of contents

Highlights on your Indonesia itinerary

Todo in lombok’s south:.

• ninē-ninē – not only a shop where local Sasak women sew beautiful products (headbands, bags & much more), but also a place where you can do cultural workshops during which you cook local dishes and learn about Lombok’s traditions. We had such a fun and interesting afternoon there.
• Sade Village – A Sasak village (locals of Lombok) built of traditional bamboo houses. You will be welcomed by a local at the village entrance and they only ask for a donation of which you can freely choose the amount at the end. Lovely to learn more about Lombok’s traditions!
• Bukit Merese – A beautiful sunset spot on the cliffs, but when you get there walk up the hills to the left, as the right side gets crowded and there were several locals with falcons and owls on short leashes. I guess they want you to pay for them to let them fly, like playing with a kite. Please don’t support any animal-harming activities like that.
• Tanjung Aan – One of the most popular beaches for swimming & for surfing. It’s large, so it doesn’t get crowded but when we were there it was super dirty (full of plastic bags) unfortunately.
• Selong Belanak – A piece of paradise also often enjoyed by local buffalos who like to hang around the beach
• Making Beach – Another paradisiacal beach close to Selong Belanak
• Pink Beach – It’s not really pink, but beautiful all the same
• Orong Bukal – A lesser-known viewpoint across the cliffs which we got recommended by a local

Impressions of Lombok’s south: Beach | nine nine workshop | Yoga at Mana Eco Retreat

ToDo in Lombok’s central & northern area:

• Tetebatu rice terraces – One of the most magical places in Lombok in my opinion. They’re all family-owned, so you need to stay in one of the homestays in order to visit the rice terraces.
• Bukit Selong viewpoint – Here you have an amazing view across seemingly endless vegetable fields (for an even nicer view, hike up to Pergasingan hill, but that’s around 1h hiking)
• Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfall – We visited those two which were breathtaking and you can take a shower underneath. Make sure to park at Gate 1 , because I read a lot about people trying to scam you at Gate 2 by saying you have to go with a guide. The entrance fee is only 20K and you really don’t need a guide, unless you don’t feel comfortable walking through rivers or you’re traveling with small kids.
• Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu Waterfall – Two amazing waterfalls just south of the volcano. It’s 70K to visit both waterfalls together (including parking). Be aware that here yourenot allowed to swim with a bikini, but they will give you a sarong.
• Hike up Mount Rinjani – The impressive volcano in the middle of the island that has a huge crater lake. But the hike takes at least 2 days (with one night). I didn’t manage to do it during the rainy season, but I heard a lot  of people raving about this epic hike. So if you’ve got the chance to do it – do it!

Impressions of Lombok’s north | Tetebatu ricefields & Sendang Gile Waterfall

Eat in Lombok (Kuta):

• Warung BUDE – A local restaurant serving many delicious dishes such as Gado Gado, Nasi Goreng & Vegetable Curry.
• Warung Flora ‐ A recommendation by locals and it was delicious and cheap.
• Mana Eco Retreat – Their restaurant is as amazing as their facilities. You should try the vegan Laksa or the Nori Bowl. And the breakfast menu (smoothie bowl or porridge) is also delicious.
• Oolaa Bar & Restaurant – A super nice place. Try the Mandalika Curry.
• Kenza – Also one of the more high-class restaurants that are nice for brunch or dinner.

Stay in Lombok:

• In the south: Mana Eco Retreat – What a gorgeous oasis in Kuta, where you can do yoga retreats, refresh in their beautiful pool, and enjoy amazing vegan food.
• In the central area: Tetebatu terrace homestay – A simple homestay but with a lovely view across the family’s rice terraces which you can also visit.
• In the north: Rinjani Lighthouse – A wonderful surprise and our lifesaver when we were at Sendang Gile Waterfalls and a thunderstorm came. Even more beautiful than it looks in the pictures.

Hotel recommendation for Lombok: Mana Eco Retreat

How to get to Lombok?

The gili islands.

Impressions of Gili Air

ToDo on the Gili Islands:

• Enjoy the beaches – Grab a book, head to one of the white beaches, enjoy the calm water and relax.
• Walk around the island – It will only take you around half an hour.
• Go snorkeling – Even from the beaches, you can see amazing fish, corals and even turtles if you’re lucky.
• Go diving – During one dive, I saw at least six sea turtles, all of them at least over a meter big. One was eating some seaweed, another one was sleeping, and one swam up to the surface in order to gasp for air – it was amazing. The visibility was awesome too – the water was so clear that I could see the shining colors of hundreds of fish and corals from far away.

Stay on Gili Air:

• H2O Yoga – A lovely yoga hostel just a few minutes walk away from the beach.

Hotel recommendation for Gili Air: H2O Yoga  

How to get to the Gili Islands?

More about reducing waste during your trip, todo in bali.

• Uluwatu – An impressive temple built on the cliffs on the south coast.
• Ubud – The charm of Ubud resides in its beautiful mixture of rice terraces, ancient temples that are hidden somewhere all over the place, the smell of incense sticks in the alleyways, the many yoga centers, and the healthy & spiritual people lingering there, the cozy small cafés and restaurants, and of course the delicious Indonesian food.
• Climb Mount Batur for sunrise – It may sound crazy to get up at 1:30 am to climb Bali’s highest mountain. But it’s so worth it! I have to admit that the climb up to the top of Mount Batur was pretty exhausting, especially considering the small amount of sleep. As we made our way up, we could already see the sky slowly coloring in beautiful shades of orange and yellow, and we finally reached the top of the volcano shortly before sunrise – a mind-blowing view that quickly lets you forget all the exhaustion.
• Ubud Water Palace – A gorgeous temple in Ubud. You can either eat on the terrace of the restaurant next to it for a beautiful view of the temple, or enter for 70K. You get a Sarong at the entrance.
• Pura Beji Dalem Sapat (Purification & Water Temple) – A wonderful piece of Balinese culture just outside Ubud. Here you can do a water blessing, but please respect the Balinese traditions when you enter and wear a Sarong. I’d say it’s best to enter with a guide who can explain to you the Balinese cleansing tradition and knows the different fountains’ meanings (e.g. some are only used for funerals – so don’t make the mistake and use those).
• Join some yoga classes in Ubud – E.g. at the Yoga Barn. There is always a special vibe when many people who share the spirit of yoga come together. It feels like a community – the yogis there not only join all different kinds of yoga and meditation classes but also hang out together in their café in between or after classes and enjoy their delicious healthy food. Here, I had some of the most inspiring conversations of my whole trip.
• Pura Ulun Danu Bratan – A stunning temple on Lake Bratan in northern Bali.
• Waterfalls – The area of Tabanan has some incredible waterfalls: Sing Sing Angin, Blahmantung, Pengempu, and Leke Leke

Impressions of Bali: Ubud rice fields | Uluwatu Temple | Sunrise on Mount Batur

Stay in Ubud

• Imagine Bali – A wonderful small hotel in a traditional Balinese house with a tropical garden and lovely outdoor bathrooms for unbelievably affordable prices
• Aryas Villas Ubud – Wooden villas located among rice fields just outside Ubud, some of them even have a ricefield view
• Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel – A lovely boutique hostel in the heart of Ubud with free yoga classes, free massages, family dinners and even puppies
• In Da Lodge – Among the fancy hostels that are getting more and more expensive, this is a super nice but affordable hostel with a pool right next to some rice fields

Hotel recommendation for Bali: Imagine Bali

You won’t believe what a beautiful accommodation you will get here for around 25$ per night/person. The lovely tropical garden is for sure the highlight of Imagine Bali. A true little oasis hidden in a side alley in Ubud. And their Indonesian breakfast is amazing!

How to get to Bali?

Impressions of Ubud, Bali

ToDo in Jakarta:

• National Monument – It’s set in the middle of a large park that you can enter for free, just if you want to enter the monument itself with the museum inside.
• Istiqlal Mosque – The largest mosque in the country, as a tourist you can enter after 10 a.m. and get a free tour. Right opposite it, the largest church in Indonesia & they share the same court – a symbol of harmony.
• Old Batavia – The old part of the city (which is unfortunately quite run down)
• Free Walking tour – Get to know Jakarta’s main attractions in a fun and interesting free walking tour with Kenya – an Indonesian globetrotter who will make you fall in love with the capital
• Street Food Tour – Head on a street food feast on Jakarta’s pasar malam (night market) and get to know Indonesia’s best local foods

Impressions of Jakarta

Eat in Jakarta:

• Burgreens – For vegan versions of Indonesian classics such as Soto Ayam or Satay.
• Loving Hut – An authentic, simple but delicious vegetarian restaurant serving local food.

Stay in Jakarta:

• Loewys Home – A wonderful little hotel with a rooftop pool in western Jakarta
• Double Tree – For a high class stay in a quite central location
• Capsule Hostel Old Batavia – A great hostel in perfect location to meet other travelers but to also have some private space in your little capsule

Hotel recommendation for Jakarta: Loewys Home

Located in a really nice house just west of central Jakarta, Loewys home offers big, modern rooms and a nice, small rooftop pool where you can cool down from the heat. There’s also a lovely café attached.

ToDo around Bandung:

• Kawah Putih (“White Crater”) – The volcanic crater is the main highlight in this area with a turquoise acid crater lake that puffs out sulfur gases. Park here & the entrance incl. a shuttle bus up to the crater is 110K ($7) per person.
• Rengganis Suspension Bridge – With 370 meters it’s the longest suspension bridge in Southeast Asia and you can look over the jungle & the hot springs.
• Hot Springs (Cibuni Rengganis Crater) – The volcanic activities create natural hot springs that are included in the ticket of the suspension bridge (100K for the whole area). However, I perceived them as quite dirty and didn’t feel like entering the water.
• Tea plantations (Perkebunan Teh Rancabali) – Not as spectacular as the tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia , but nice to drive through.

Around Bandung

Eat in Bandung:

• Kehidupan Tidak Pernah Berakhir – a simple, local vegan foodcourt where you can get super cheap, delicious food.
• Hejo Eatery Eyckman – Vegan & Plant-based Comfort Food – The name says it all. It’s a bit fancier but worth a try. Try the Rendang, “Chicken” Katsu or the Udon noodles. We loved it all!

Stay in Bandung:

• Villa Bima Syandana   – Stay in a lovely tree-house villa outside of Bandung close to all major sights
• The Attic – A cool hostel with a nice dorm room (with pods), located in a great area in Bandung with lots of restaurants close by (I’d only recommend if you want to stay in dorm beds because the private rooms are not that nice)

Hotel recommendation around Bandung: Villa Bima Syandana

Surrounded by beautiful nature, here you can escape busy Bandung and enjoy the lush, fresh area around Ciwidey. The view from the rooms is spectacular. And its location is perfect, as you’re quite close to the White Crater, the tea fields, and the suspension bridge.

ToDo in Yogyakarta

• Borobudur Temple – The largest Buddhist monument in the world. Make sure to buy the “structure” ticket, otherwise you’re only allowed to walk around the monument. But the true beauty is at the temple’s top (you can get up to the 9th level). Be aware that there are no more sunrise tickets, although they used to be popular. The scooter ride to get there is also super nice.
• Prambanan Temple – A beautiful, large complex of Hindu Temples (the largest in Indonesia). Sadly, many pagodas were destroyed during an earthquake, and they’re still in the process of restoring it. Nevertheless, it’s very impressive. Before sunset is a great time to visit but make sure to be there at 4:30 p.m. to still walk around a while before sunset.
• Bandung Pedut – My favorite hidden gem close to Yogyakarta. After a beautiful scooter ride through rice paddies & jungle roads, you reach these waterfalls and their turquoise natural pools where you can swim & cool down from the heat. You can perfectly combine it with your visit to Borobudur Temple. It’s not well-known (yet) & with us there were only a handful of locals around.
• Taman Sari – The water palace, a wonderful example of Javanese architecture in the heart of Yogyakarta.
• Kotagede – An old neighborhood of Yogya with traditional wooden “joglo” houses.
• Jomblang Cave – A cave with a hole where you have to rappel down & get a unique view, especially when the sun is high up. But it’s a 1.5-hour scooter ride from Yogya.
• Siung Beach – A beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs around 2 hours drive from Yogya

Prambanan & Borobudur Temple close to Yogyakarta

Eat in Yogyakarta

• Veganissimo – It may sound fancy, yet it’s a very simple, but delicious local vegan restaurant (no English menu, so you may need to use Google Translate). The Saté was so yummy!
• Loving Hut – Yummy local (all vegan) food. Also over here, we fell for the Nut Satay. It probably became our favorite when backpacking in Java.

Stay in Yogyakarta

Hotels/Guesthouses

• Bedhot Homestay  – What an amazing homestay in a traditional building. Enjoy sitting on the veranda in the mornings and make yourself at home.
• Siji Gempol Vacation Home – The perfect home away from home in a calm area but still close to the center.
• Wonderloft Hostel Jogja – A hostel with a cool tub to cool down from the heat? How cool is that! Plus, it’s a really beautiful, stylish hostel in the perfect location.

Hotel recommendation in Yogyakarta: Bedhot Homestay

Set in a traditional wooden Javanese House, with a large comfy terrace, this is the perfect place to relax and recharge. An absolutely beautiful place in a local neighborhood. The staff is probably the loveliest you will encounter in all Yogyga.

Waterfalls around Yogyakarta | Water Palace

Karimunjawa

Todo in karimunjawa:.

• Relax by the beach – Grab a book, find the shade of a palm tree, and lie down. That’s how you can fill your days in Karimunjawa. The most beautiful beach was Pantai Alano. Worth paying the 5K because they really do their best to keep the beach clean.
• Watch the sunset – Our favorite spot to do so was Laendra Sunset Beach in the north of the island. Almost no people here (in comparison to the sunset beach in the south of the island got quite crowded with local tourists).
• Go snorkeling – The water is so nice and clear that you can even spot a lot of colorful fish just by swimming around the beaches with rented snorkeling gear (or you can do a snorkeling trip where you also visit other islands). And I’ve never seen a place where so many corals grow so close to the beach! The underwater world is spectacular here.
• Go diving – If you want to explore the Indonesian sea life deeper, this is the perfect place to do so. Diving is cheap and you can see so many fish and corals, if you’re lucky even dolphins and turtles down there.
• Mangrove forest – There’s a small Mangrove forest in Karimunjawa (which is by far not as spectacular as other mangrove forests I’ve seen e.g. in Malaysia or Guatemala , but a nice stop on your scooter trip).

Impressions of Karimunjawa

Eat in Karimunjawa

• Vegan green traditional stall – Among all the street food stalls gathering around the football field in Karimun village, there’s one veggie food stall.
• Saung Odang – One of the few places where you have a good choice of vegetarian dishes. The Cap Cay and the Gado Gado at this simple, local Warung were really good.

Where to stay in Karimunjawa?

• Eco Casa Resort – Located right by the beach, this little, family-run resort is a wonderful place to recharge.

Hotel recommendation in Karimunjawa: Eco Casa Resort

How to get to Karimunjawa?

Malang/surabaya, todo around the area of malang.

• Mount Bromo Volcano – There are several options to visit Mt Bromo: private tour, shared tour, or organize it by yourself. We did a private tour, as we were 4 and it was around the same price as a group tour.  We were picked up from Surabaya at 11:30 p.m. and after 2 hours by car & 1 hour by Jeep arrived at the starting point of the mini hike. Yep, it’s a mini hike – you only have to walk up a little bit, as you can drive up quite far. It’s freezing up there! I put down any offers to rent a jacket, but I really regretted it. So I’d recommend you do so (it’s only 10-30K, depending on your haggling skills). Unfortunately, it was quite cloudy, so we didn’t get the best sunrise. That happens a lot when you’re backpacking in Java during the rainy season. The dry season brings a clearer view. After that, you get breakfast, drive closer to the crater and walk up 30 minutes to the crater rim. Standing on the edge of a volcano crater is quite impressive, but it’s becoming more and more touristy, so don’t expect to be the only one up there. You can drive all the way to the starting point by scooter yourself, but I heard that you have to pay almost as much for parking, entrance fees etc that a tour is much more convenient.
• Mount Ijen Volcano – As this volcano is further east and involves a longer hike, it’s usually a 2-day/1-night trip. We didn’t have the time to do this in the end of our Java itinerary, but I heard from many other travelers that the view of the blue crater lake & the “blue fires” is really unique. You even have to wear a mask because of the gases. On the other hand, it’s even more touristy than the Bromo hike, so it gets quite crowded, especially during the high season.
• Madakaripura Waterfall – Close to Bromo, this gorgeous waterfall can easily be combined with the trip to Bromo. Many travel agents offer a Bromo + Madakaripura combined tour. From the parking, you need to take an ojek (scooter taxi) to the entrance & walk for around 30 minutes. Bring some slippers or shoes that can get wet, as you cross the river on the way and walk underneath several waterfalls. While many visitors wanted to wear raincoats, we enjoyed the cool shower and preferred to actually feel the power of nature. As it was raining the day before, the water wasn’t as blue as it usually is, but the 200 m waterfall was still impressive.
• Tumpak Sewu Waterfall – Many say, this is one of the most impressive waterfalls they’ve ever seen. The huge Waterfall forms a huge half-circle and on a clear day, you get a breathtaking view of the volcano in the background. If you can manage to squeeze it into your Java itinerary, I really recommend doing so.

Mount Bromo & Madakaripura Waterfall close to Malang

Indonesia itineraries

How to get to indonesia, how to get around indonesia.

Around Java by train

Around Java by train & scooter

How many weeks do you need for your Indonesia itinerary?

More on slow travel, 6 weeks indonesia itinerary.

• Jakarta 2 days → train to Bandung (2h, 150K in 3rd class)
• Bandung 2 days → train to Yogyakarta (8h, 260K in 3rd class)
• Yogyakarta 3-4 days → bus & ferry to Karimunjawa (bus: 6h, 150K + ferry 5h, 105K)
• Karimunjawa 3-4 days → ferry & bus to Malang/Surabaya (we shared a private transfer for 550K which ended up being as cheap as the buses & trains from Jepara → Semarang → Surabaya)
• Malang 2-3 days
• → bus & boat to Bali (from Ketapang in Java to Gilimanuk in Bali) Note: If you’re planning to do only Bromo & not to head on by boat to Bali, then I’d recommend skipping Malang/Surabaya and doing the Bromo trip from Yogyakarta. There’s really not much else to see in Malang/Surabaya apart from being the better starting point for the volcanoes & waterfalls.
• Bali’s east & north 3-4 days
• Uluwatu 2-3 days
• Ubud 3-4 days
• → boat to Gili Air
• 3-4 days on Gili Air
• → boat to Lombok (either to Padang Bai or to Senggigi)
• Kuta 3-4 days → rent a scooter to Tetebatu (2h)
• Tetebatu 2-3 days → ride by scooter to Sendang Gile
• Rinjani/Sendang Gile 1 day → ride back to Kuta or add volcano hike (2 days)

3 weeks Indonesia Itinerary

Good to know for your Indonesia itinerary

What’s the best time to visit indonesia.

Street parade on Pagerwesi in Bali

How expensive is Indonesia?

Nasi Campur (Rice with tempeh & veggies) for less than 2 US$

How to travel more sustainably in Indonesia?

So the protection of these rainforests is of utmost importance. The Indonesian government and numerous organizations and nature conservation associations are working hard to conserve this precious nature . Sumatra’s national parks which are home to some of the last wild orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and a huge biodiversity are already UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, Borneo is one of the five areas with the greatest biodiversity in the world .

Let’s protect this stunning nature

What can we do as travelers?

• Avoid any plastic packaging (say no to any plastic bags, especially on markets & street food stalls, and bring your own tote bag instead)
• Buy fresh fruit or freshly prepared snacks instead of packed snacks like chips or cookies
• Bring your own cosmetics instead of using the shampoo samples in any accommodation
• Say no to plastic straws, plastic cups, chop sticks etc. but bring your own to enjoy the coconuts and fresh fruit juices
• Bring a water filter bottle , so you don’t have to buy any plastic bottles

Of course, it’s not always possible to avoid waste, so

• Pick accommodation that separates trash and operates as sustainable as possible – because sadly public trash bins will never end up in any recycling circle in Indonesia
• Join a beach clean-up or pick up trash yourself when you see some plastic bottles or other trash on the beach

Interested in getting a water bottle with a filter?

Bringing your own straw, cutlery & filter bottle can help reduce waste

Besides, with the following recommendations  you can also make a difference so your destination won’t suffer as much from tourism:

• Avoid domestic flights – rather take the trains, buses and ferries which take you comfortably from one island to the next in Indonesia
• Book local guides on your Indonesia itinerary
• Select eco-tour operators who operate with respect for the environment
• Support the national parks and rehabilitation centers with a donation, so Indonesia’s threatened species can be protected. My favorite is BOS – they do an amazing job in rescuing orphaned or injured orangutans (and make sure there’s as little contact with humans as necessary so they can be released back into the wild once they’re strong enough)
• Support locals (eat in local restaurants, buy in local shops, stay with locals), so your money goes to the locals instead of international companies
• Interact with locals to learn about their cultures
• Volunteer to support local environmental organizations
• Travel in the low season (that’s usually the rainy season in Indonesia)
• Save water & energy in your accommodation
• Respect local traditions, especially when visiting religious sites

Please don’t support any activities that harm animals , such as so-called “elephant sanctuaries” where visitors can still bath and touch the animals (would you want to be constantly touched by strangers and “bathed” with sponges even though your instincts make sure you take care of your body care in your way?)

And give some love to stray animals ! Many dogs and cats yearn for some cuddles more than for food. If you give them some water or a bit of food, you can make them even happier. In case you see an injured animal, bring it to the closest vet or animal organisation.

Let’s keep the beaches clean by reducing waste and be nice to stay animals

Let’s protect this stunning nature, be nice to animals & respect traditions

What’s Indonesian food like?

• Nasi goreng – fried rice
• Mie goreng – fried noodles
• Nasi Campur – a mixed dish with rice, tempeh, vegetables, and typically chicken, but sometimes you can find it without meat or can ask to leave the chicken out
• Gado Gado – a dish popular in Bali & Lombok with vegetables, tempeh and a thick peanut sauce
• Curry – in many places you can find a vegetable curry
• Urap Urap / Urap sayur – mixed vegetables with grated coconut
• Olah Olah – vegetables with coconut milk
• Soto – Indonesian noodle soup, originally with chicken (“Soto Ayam”), but sometimes you find it with vegetables
• Tempeh – In many Indonesian dishes you will find tempeh, which (like tofu) is made from fermented soybeans, but as opposed to tofu, they’re still whole in tempeh
• Gudeg – A specialty from Yogyakarta with jack fruit (but don’t choose the package which usually comes with meat, so only take the Gudeg)
• Jamu – traditional herbal juice, e.g. the one from Lombok is made with tumeric, ginger, lemon, cinnamon & cloves

Indonesian food (all vegan variations of traditional dishes)

What language do they speak in Indonesia?

• “Welcome”  – Selamat datang
• “Good morning” – Selamat pagi
• “Good afternoon/evening”  – Selamat petang
• “Hello” – Helo
• in Lombok dialect: “tampir asih”
• in Javanese: “matur nuwun”
• “You’re welcome” – Sama sama
• “I want …” (e.g. fried rice) – “Saya nak…” (e.g. nasi goreng)
• “Without meat/chicken/fish” – Tak mau daging/ayam/ikan
• “Not spicy” – Jangan pedas
• “A little bit spicy” – Sedikit pedas
• “How much is it?” – Berapa harga nya?

Which is the best sim card in Indonesia?

Indonesia itinerary – a wrap-up.

Indonesia in three words: adzan (mosque prayers) | batik | nasi goreng

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 Backpacking Indonesia Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s dive right in!

Where to Go Backpacking in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

1 Month Backpacking Indonesia Itinerary

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

Backpacking Sumatra (5 Days)

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

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

Backpacking Java (5 Days)

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Bali (5 Days)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Lombok (6 Days)

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

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

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

Backpacking Flores (5 Days)

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Sulawesi (4 Days)

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

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

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

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

Indonesia Entry Requirements for Backpackers

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

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

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

How to Travel in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

On most of the islands, there will be local buses to get you pretty much anywhere. On Bali, you can travel with Kura Kura bus that has its buses running between some of the most popular towns. It’s comfortable and much more affordable than taking a taxi. On most of the other islands, the bus will be the best option for getting between cities and towns. Consider using Grab and GoJek as great alternatives to taxis!

Indonesia Travel Guide to Getting Around

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

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

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

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

Best Time of Year to Backpack Indonesia

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

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

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

Read Next: The Ultimate Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan

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

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

Backpacker Accommodation in Indonesia

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Indonesia

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

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

Tips to Save Money on Your Trip to Indonesia

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

Compare Prices

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

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

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

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

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

Eat Local Food

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

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

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

Bargain, Haggle and Negotiate

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

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

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

Foods to Try on Your Backpacking Trip to Indonesia

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

Nasi Goreng

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

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

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

Beef Rendang

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

Sate (Indonesian satay)

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

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

Tips for Backpacking Indonesia

Bring a reusable water bottle.

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

Carry Small Cash

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

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

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

What is Your Baggage Allowance?

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

How Much Does Backpacking Indonesia Cost?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Indonesia Itineraries

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The following itineraries will give you a taste of everything that’s addictive about Indonesia. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the serene beaches of Maluku, Indonesia offers an array of unforgettable experiences for every traveller. Whether you seek thrilling adventures through lush rainforests, encounters with exotic wildlife, or the tranquillity of spiritual retreats, the best Indonesia itineraries promise to immerse you in a world of natural beauty and cultural wonders. Embark on a journey filled with rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality as you uncover the treasures of this tropical paradise. Let us guide you through the top itineraries that will help you make the most of your Indonesian adventure.

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.

Recommended Indonesia itineraries

Indonesia is a land of stunning natural beauty, boasting pristine beaches, lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and breathtaking rice terraces. It also offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. You can go trekking in the lush jungles of Sumatra, scuba diving in the pristine waters of Raja Ampat, or embark on thrilling wildlife encounters in places like Komodo National Park. Surfing enthusiasts will find world-class breaks in Bali and Lombok, while food lovers can indulge in a tantalizing array of flavours from the diverse Indonesian cuisine.

If you are planning your travel to Indonesia by yourself, check out these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration. Or check out the best beaches in Indonesia , find out when to go or read all about the best temples to visit in Bali .

Indonesia Itinerary 1 - Wildlife and Nature Exploration - 3 weeks

Indonesia is a country known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. To fully experience the wildlife and natural wonders, it is recommended to spend at least three weeks exploring the following destinations:

• Bali Barat National Park : Conclude your journey by exploring Bali Barat National Park, located on the northwest coast of Bali. This park offers a mix of terrestrial and marine environments, with opportunities to spot Bali starlings, deer, macaques, and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.
• Komodo National Park : Visit the famous Komodo National Park, home to the legendary Komodo dragons, the world's largest lizards. Explore the park's islands, hike through rugged terrain, and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Bunaken Marine National Park : Bunaken, located on Sulawesi, is an excellent staging point for diving and snorkelling trips to Bunaken Marine National Park, 15km (10 miles) offshore. The coral reefs teem with thousands of species of colourful tropical fish along steep drop-offs that plunge thousands of metres into the abyss.
• Tanjung Puting National Park : Travel to Central Kalimantan on the island of Borneo to discover Tanjung Puting National Park. Take a boat trip along the river and observe wild orangutans swinging through the trees. This park is also home to proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and a variety of bird species.
• Gunung Leuser National Park : Head to Sumatra and explore Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trek through lush rainforests, keeping an eye out for endangered Sumatran orangutans, tigers, elephants, and other unique wildlife species.
• Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater : Embark on a breathtaking adventure to Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater in East Java. Witness the dramatic sunrise over Mount Bromo's otherworldly landscape and hike to the ethereal blue flames of Ijen Crater, where sulfur miners extract the mineral.

Padar island ad Komodo National Park @Shutterstock

Indonesia Itinerary 2 - Ultimate Bali and Lombok Adventure - 2 weeks

• Ubud : Explore the artistic and cultural hub of Ubud, visit ancient temples, and experience the enchanting Monkey Forest. Embark on a cycling or trekking tour through picturesque rice terraces and traditional craft villages. Discover the beauty of Tegenungan Waterfall and catch a mesmerizing Balinese dance performance.
• Nusa Penida : Hop on a short boat ride to Nusa Penida and prepare to be awed by its stunning landscapes. Marvel at the famous Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach, and Crystal Bay. Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, including graceful manta rays.
• Gili Islands : Take a fast boat from Bali to the Gili Islands and unwind on pristine white sandy beaches. Indulge in snorkeling or diving adventures amidst vibrant coral reefs and swim with gentle sea turtles. Experience the laid-back island atmosphere, relish delectable seafood, and capture breathtaking sunsets.
• South Lombok : Explore the beautiful beaches of South Lombok, including the famous Kuta Beach, Tanjung Aan, and Mawun Beach. Engage with the local Sasak culture by visiting traditional villages like Sade and Rambitan. For thrill-seekers, consider a challenging trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani for awe-inspiring panoramic views.
• Senaru : Visit Senaru to witness the breathtaking Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls amidst lush greenery. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lombok, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and serene landscapes. Spend your days moments in Lombok shopping for souvenirs or unwinding on the beach before departure.

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Travel advice for Indonesia

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• How to get to Indonesia
• Travel Tips Indonesia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Indonesia

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updated 25.04.2024

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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.

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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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The Perfect 1 Week, 2 Weeks, & 1 Month Bali, Indonesia Travel Itinerary

• Last Updated On: September 8, 2023

Bali, the island of the Gods, is one of my favorite places in the world for so many different reasons. The perfect combination of incredible scenery, vibrant culture, beautiful rice terraces, and delicious cuisine makes it hold a special place in my heart. I’ve visited Bali three times now and have even lived in Bali for a few months during COVID times (read about why I love living in Bali) . Bali has quickly become one of the top digital nomad hotspots with areas like Canggu and Berawa offering the perfect blend of island beauty and working environment.

Bali is in my opinion the ultimate Instagram island. I don’t just say that because of its natural beauty, but because of how beautiful the Balinese people have made some places. If you want to take nice pictures of nature or of yourself, Bali is the one stop shop for you. Just look at this photo in Nusa Penida for example!

Bali is an enormous island to the point that I wouldn’t even consider it an island anymore. There is an insane amount of things to do and see that I can’t begin to summarize everything in one post. Whether you’re visiting Bali for a honeymoon , a standard two week vacation, or planning to stay for longer, this post will help you plan your perfect trip.

How long to spend in Bali?

There is no perfect amount of time to spend in Bali because I literally have lived here for a half year. Bali kind of sucks you in with its low cost of living, high quality of services and goods, natural beauty, and just the perfect scene.

If you’re planning to stay for a long time and work as a digital nomad, this post will be great for inspiration but you probably don’t need to meticulously plan a trip.

However, if you’re planning a vacation to the island of the Gods, then you should plan to stay at least one week. Two weeks would of course be the optimal amount of time to spend in Bali and with three weeks, you can really relax and see more of the nearby islands. I know most people take one to three week vacations around the world so I will help you plan accordingly with this itinerary!

Bali is a huge island first and foremost. It is almost 6,000 square km being 160km wide and 120km long. It is double the size of Luxembourg and larger than the US state of Delaware. Not only is it large, but there are so many different highlights and amazing things to see in this island that you can’t hope to see it all with such short time. There are some things more worth seeing than others in my opinion and hopefully this guide will help you choose those things.

Best Time of year to visit Bali

Bali is located just south of the equator and enjoys warm tropical weather year round. There are only two seasons: Dry season between April and November, and rainy season between December and March.

The rainy seasons in Bali are not as bad or as extreme as other parts of Indonesia. I think the island being sandwiched between Java and Lombok provide some sort of shelter from the storms. Bali is also not as humid as other tropical destinations I’ve been which makes it much more enjoyable. Rainy season normally means isolated storms throughout the day with hot temperatures. It rarely just rains for days on end but it can happen.

I’ve visited during rainy and dry seasons and there are advantages to both. Dry season sees much less rain, beautiful sunsets but with bigger crowds. June to September, and December for the holidays are very busy months for the island. During the rainy season months of January to March, the crowds are less meaning you can enjoy some of Bali’s most popular sights with more peace.

Where I went in Bali

I lived in Bali for a few months so I was able to explore most of the touristy areas of the island as well as nearby islands. If you only have a few weeks to visit Bali, I’d recommend focusing on a few different areas that I will go over later in this post.

I think if I were to plan a 2-3 week itinerary, it would look something like the following:

How to get around in Bali?

Bali is an island for scooters. There is no public transportation to speak of and everyone uses scooters. Renting a car in Bali is of course possible but a traffic nightmare especially during touristy times.

The roads in Bali are very small and is certainly not big enough for how busy Bali has become. You’ll want the ability to park and maneuver freely around traffic which only comes with having a scooter. If you have never driven a scooter before, I’d recommend practicing beforehand as it can get a bit stressful.

If you are not keen to rent a scooter, then you can simply use Gojek which is the Uber of Indonesia to get from place to place. The prices are very cheap. For example, a Gojek from the airport to Canggu is about 100k IDR ($7.5).

Alternatively, if you want to spend a little more, then you should definitely consider a private driver in Bali for the day. A private driver will be able to take you to all the sights you want and stay in the car while you go explore. When you return, you know you’ll be comfortable in an AC’d car while it drives you to the next place!

Is it safe to drive a scooter in Bali?

As I’ve mentioned before, Bali runs on scooters. Everyone uses them, locals and foreigners alike. It’s by far the best way to get around the island. Bali traffic is known to be horrendous which I can attest to. People can be slightly aggressive while driving so you really need to be comfortable with your own skills.

Driving a scooter itself is not difficult in my opinion but you must be okay dealing with the traffic and the driving style of Bali. I don’t think it is overly crazy but it just depends on yourself. I actually drove a scooter  for the first time in Bali. I didn’t find it to be too overwhelming and survived to tell the tale.

Day 1-4: Canggu

Upon landing in Bali, the first stop to visit is Canggu. Canggu is the bustling expat and digital nomad area that is vibrant and full of life. This isn’t the place for your typical Bali experience aka rice fields and beaches. However, Canggu is the perfect place to situate yourself for a few days while getting used to the Bali vibe.

Canggu is the ultimate place for restaurants, cafes, and beach bars. Canggu has an insane amount of amazing cafes serving delicious coffees and brunch style foods with an unmatched ambiance. If you are into taking photos of restaurants and your food, there is no place that will match the opportunities you get in Canggu.

In fact, I would say that Canggu has more beautiful and Instagram ready cafes per square kilometer than  anywhere else in the world.  Popular places like Suka, Milk and Madu, Crate, Copenhagen, Nook, Avocado Factory and literally countless more will keep you occupied for months. Canggu’s cafes are also entirely remote work / digital nomad friendly which I write about in my best cafes to work from in Canggu post.

You might read this and scoff a bit. I did the same thing. But after spending a few months hanging out in Canggu, I didn’t want to leave. For the quality and for the price of what you get, you can’t find this in many other parts of the world.

Canggu is home to some of the best restaurants in Bali so make sure to read through my list to plan your trip!

Have a drink on Echo Beach

Echo Beach is where all the people hang out for a drink while watching the sunset. This long strip of black sand beach is filled with chilled beach bars and restaurants alike where you can enjoy the sunset.

If you want something with a bit more atmosphere, visit the famous  La Brisa  beach club for the full experience. Otherwise, simply walk next door to La Brisa and grab a bean bag at any of the surfer bars where beers are a casual 30k IDR and coconuts are 20k IDR.

Take a half day trip to Tanah Lot

If you’re staying in the Canggu/Pererenan area, a visit to the famous Tanah Lot temple is a must. The Tanah Lot is one of the most visited temples in Bali. It’s located right on the water situated perfectly up rocky steps overlooking the ocean. Tanah Lot means land on the sea which perfectly sums up this temple.

It’s not as impressive as other temples in Bali like the Lempuyang temple in the far east but it is easily accessible and its location on the water is unique.

Day 4-8: Ubud and the rice terraces

After you’ve had your cafe and beach life in Canggu, it’s time to make a move to Ubud. Ubud is world famous for its incredible rice fields, yoga retreats, and spiritual environment. Although it’s long been popular, it was probably made even more popular by the movie Eat, Pray Love. Ubud is one of the highlights for most travelers to Ubud and it’s not something you should miss.

Tegalalang Rice Fields

You’ve surely seen plenty of photos throughout the years with Bali’s famous rice terraces. There are so many in Bali but the most popular and most easily accessible is Tegalalang rice terrace outside of Ubud.

You can reach these iconic multi level rice terraces by Gojek or scooter from Ubud. There are many restaurants and cafes overlooking the terraces as it has become quite commercialized in recent years. It is free to walk inside the rice terraces and take photos to your desire. There are also a bunch of Bali swings famous for their photogenic qualities.

These rice terraces are not just for show however. They are actually there to produce rice and you’ll find many farmers working the fields. Don’t be disrespectful and get in their way just to take a bunch of photos.

Depending on the time of year you visit, the rice terraces will be more green. At the beginning of the season, you’ll mostly just find soil and water in the terraces which don’t photograph as well.

Jatiluwih Rice Fields

If you think Tegalalang rice fields are nice, you’ve seen nothing yet. If you want the most beautiful rice fields in all of Bali, you’ll need to go to Jatiluwih. The rice fields here are expansive and vast, with sweeping views throughout the valley. Mount Batur and Agung can also be seen from the rice fields.

It’s realy not a close comparison between the rice fields around Ubud and Jatiluwih; Jatiluwih is just vastly more beautiful. From Ubud, you’ll need to take a scooter roughly 1 hour which is about the same time as it takes from Canggu. You can do this as a day trip from Canggu or from Ubud, it is up to you!

Just look at the beautiful photos!

Karsa Spa for the ultimate massage

Bali and Thailand alike is famous for its spas and massages. I actually prefer the traditional Balinese massage to the Thai style messages. There is no better place in Bali to get a quintessential massage than at Karsa Spa.

Located just north of Ubud, this spa is located on the rice fields and has some of the most beautiful grounds for a spa I’ve seen. As soon as you enter, you feel relaxed and at ease with the surroundings. The massage rooms are all outdoor with very inviting baths, showers, and massage beds. The massages themselves are among the best I’ve had in Bali.

Before COVID, I tried coming here and was told there was a 1 month waiting list for a massage. Yes,  one month for a massage!  Absolutely crazy but that’s how popular the place was.

During COVID, business here plummeted so I was able to make a reservation on the same day.

Sarawasti Temple in Ubud

Saraswati temple Kingdom of Ubud is dedicated to honor the Hindu Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning, literature and art. This temple is very beautiful and artistic, so many tourists who come to see its charm, but for purposes of worship. Pura Taman Saraswati has a water garden and lotus pond at the center of its attraction as a tourist attraction.

This temple is decorated with so many fine carvings and inside there Padmasana shrine located in the northeast, but it also contained bale barong, giant masks, statues of Goddess Saraswati and the statue of the devil Jero Gede Mecaling as high as 3 meters in front of the temple.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is arguably the best known Ubud trek and with good reason. The sparse crowds and the aesthetically rich vistas remind one of why people from around the world come to Bali. The trail starts at the historical origin of Ubud, the confluence (or Campuhan) of the Wos Rivers.

All in all, the hike can be done in a few hours and offers you splendid views of the rice terraces

Ubud Monkey Forest

One of the most popular and well known activities in Bali is the Ubud Monkey Forest. The Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary for the Balinese long tailed macaque. Despite the many tourists, visiting the Monkey Forest Ubud is a truly wonderful experience. There are  over 600 macaques  living in the forest, mostly frolicking in groups, lounging, or annoying (or stubbornly ignoring) tourists.

The monkeys in the forest are used to visitors and  are not afraid of contact  . Which basically means they want to steal something from you. All kinds of bottles, food, hats and sunglasses are very popular, as well as the expensive camera.

Caution is therefore required, because if the monkeys smell prey, they can become  rabid  . It has also happened that a tourist has been bitten in a duel for the camera.

Before you enter the park, simply hand in any superfluous things at the entrance, make sure to stow your sunglasses, hat and anything else that is dangling on the outside of the backpack  inside the backpack.  You should be aware that the monkeys aren’t toys.

I avoided visiting the monkey forest during COVID times because the lack of tourists has resulted in lack of food (sad) for the monkeys. I’ve heard they’ve become more aggressive and with so few tourists, it was just asking for trouble.

Day Trip to the Lempuyang Temple

One of the most popular things to do in Bali is a day trip to the ultra famous Lempuyang Temple.

This temple is located on the far east side of Bali and is a 1h drive from Ubud. You’ve probably seen many photos of this temple. You can organize this trip with a group tour, or you can simply drive here with a scooter.

The pictures look absolutely insane and a bit unreal. This perfect reflection (is it really water) between these towering pillars with Mount Agung in the background looks like something straight out of Photoshop.

Entrance fee for Lempuyang Temple

To enter Lempuyang temple, you’ll have to pay for a bus transportation at the entrance of the temple. This bus travels 2km up a very steep hill to the famous gates. You  cannot  do this drive on your own and you must pay for the bus. In pre-covid times, big busses would funnel hundreds of tourists to the attraction. The cost was 50k IDR per person for this bus ride.

Once you arrive at the gates, you’ll need to pay another 100k IDR to enter the temple and take the famous photos!

Taking your famous Lempoyang Temple Photo

Once you enter the temple, you’ll see that there is of course no perfectly flooded reflection pool next to the gates. It’s just a bunch of people lined up waiting to get their photos taken. There is a photographer in the middle that is taking all of the photos with everyone’s smartphones.

He takes a piece of glass and very strategically holds it above your phone’s camera lens which creates the illusion that there is a perfect reflection. It’s absolutely genius because the photos do turn out ridiculously cool. Whomever thought to do this is a total genius. On par with the treehouse builder in Nusa Penida if I am to compare it.

In normal pre-COVID times, you can expect to wait 2-3 hours for your photo to be taken.

Tirta Gangga Temple

Shortly before the Lempoyang Temple is the famous Tirta Gangga Temple. It was a former palace used by royals in the past. Nowadays, it is famous for its ultra picturesque pond with a seemingly endless amount of koi fish to boot.

There are small platforms where you can walk out into the pond. The fish here are used to people feeding them so they will know to follow you in return for food. Makes for really nice photos.

Day 8-10: Sideman & Selat Area

Ubud is the most popular nature area of Bali. It’s famous for its ricefields, yoga studios, and tranquility but unfortunately it is also a huge tourist attraction.

If you truly want to get away from it all and be one with nature, then I’d recommend traveling further east from Ubud into the SIdeman area. A few days here and you’ll totally forget that Bali is busy and crowded. Most of the island is quite remote and the natural beauty of the island can’t e denied.

Staying at the Camaya Bamboo House

I spent two nights in the Sideman area staying at the ultra famous Camaya Bamboo House . These houses are famous and have been on numerous travel magazines as some of the most beautiful Airbnbs in the world.

They also made the netbeds famous all over Bali and the photos you can take from this beautiful property are amazing.

Montana Cafe For a view of Mount Batur

On the way to Sideman from Ubud, you’ll pass through the north of Bali which affords you absolutely amazing views of Mount Batur. The best place to view this mountain is from Montana Cafe. They serve amazing breakfasts and coffee with a dead on view of the mountain.

They even have a net bed where you can surely take some very Instagrammable photos overlooking Mount Batur.

Day 10-13: Uluwatu

Uluwatu is located in the southern tip of Bali and is one of the most beautiful parts of the island. It offers a totally different vibe compared to areas like Canggu/Seminyak and a completely different vibe to the jungles around Ubud.

Uluwatu is known for its beautiful long sandy beaches, cliffs, surfing, and upscale resorts. Uluwatu is definitely the spot to be if you’re looking for the big resorts and upscale hotels.

Visiting the Edge Day Spa

Uluwatu Temple

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is considered one of the six most important and most beautiful temples in Bali. Built in the 11th century, the temple is dedicated to the sea goddess Dewi and is said to protect the southern peninsula of Bali from demons. Like  Tanah Lot  , it is one of the seven sea temples that line the southwest coast of Bali.

To say it straight away: I wasn’t blown away by the temple. However, the location on the gigantic cliffs overlooking the sea is fantastic. So fantastic that wedding couples like to be photographed here in front of the sunset. The bad thing is that you can’t even visit the actual temple. So it’s more the environment that makes the attraction.

Sunset dinner at Jimbaran beach

Jimbaran Beach is famous for its plethora of outdoor seafood restaurants on the beach. They cook seafood in open air grill areas where you can choose your seafood before it is cooked. Before COVID, Jimbaran beach was always packed with locals and tourists alike.

The food is actually quite good depending on which restaurant you visit. I went to  The Cuisine Cafe which was delicious.

Day 13-16: Nusa Penida

Bali actually is host to a few smaller islands nearby. To Bali’s southeast are the Nusa islands comprising Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. I’ll summarize the itinerary here but make sure to read my full post on the Nusa islands if you are planning to come here.

For the next part of the itinerary, it is time to take a ferry over to the absolutely breathtaking island of Nusa Penida. I call Nusa Penida the ultimate Instagram island because you’ll find beautiful viewpoints everywhere you go.

Nusa Penida is also famous for its scuba diving which attracts Mola Mola and manta rays at different parts of the year. It’s not as good as the diving in Komodo National Park in my opinion but it is certainly one of the better places to dive in the world.

Bali to Nusa Penida Ferry schedule

There are multiple ferry companies that run this route. The times are constantly changing so there are not many totally reliable time schedules online. When you arrive at Sanur port, you’ll see a bunch of different booths selling ferry tickets. Just ask around to get the ferry leaving the soonest.

When I went to Nusa Penida in Jan 2022, the ferries left multiple times a day in the morning and afternoons. I took the afternoon ferry around 14:00. I know for sure there are ferry departures in the mornings around 7am and 8am. These are perfect for day trippers to Nusa Penida (more info on this later).

You’ll also find multiple departures coming back to Bali from Nusa Penida.

Cost of the Nusa Penida ferry ticket

The ferry tickets vary depending on the company you choose. I paid 240k IDR for round trip ferry tickets which was cheaper than buying two one way tickets.

The return ticket was flexible as I didn’t know how long I wanted to spend on the island.

I would recommend reserving tickets beforehand during high season months. As I was traveling around COVID, there was no problem getting tickets upon arrival.

Diamond Beach and thousand island viewpoint

Without a doubt, the most famous attraction of Nusa Penida is Diamond Beach. Located on the southeast of the island, you’ll need to drive about 40 minutes from the port town to reach this beautiful beach.

Diamond Beach is absolutely stunning. The white sand beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. There are also small rock cliffs all around the beach adding to its stunning beauty.

There are stairs built into the cliffside allowing you to walk down to the beach. These stairs are also where you can take some of the most stunning photos in Bali. You’ll also find a Bali swing as you descend the stairs where you can take beautiful photos as you look out into the ocean.

Once you get down to the beach, you’ll be greeted with crystal clear blue waters and incredible beaches. The waves can be strong at times so make sure to watch yourself.

This beach can get very busy during normal times with international and domestic tourists alike. The best time to visit this beach is in the late morning before the huge swaths of day trippers make their way over.

Nusa Penida Instagram Tree House

Located a few minutes from the Diamond beach is perhaps the most photogenic spot in all of Nusa Penida and perhaps even all of Bali.

The Rumah Pohon treehouse is one of the most well known sights in all of Nusa Penida and it was seeing the photos and videos of this tree house that really blew my mind originally when planning my trip to Nusa Penida. I really needed to see what all the fuss was about with this house!

This treehouse is located on the cliffs with one of the most perfect views of the ocean. The Rumah Pohon treehouse is located in the same area as the “thousand island viewpoint” which is just one of the many stunning viewpoints in Nusa Penida. I actually found the views of Diamond beach to be more stunning but you’re coming here for the treehouse so that’s what you need to focus on.

To get here, you’ll need to park at the thousand island viewpoint entrance. You’ll pay the 10k IDR to enter the area and walk down about 200 stairs to where you’ll finally be greeted with this tree house.

While this picture might look like you’re in the middle of nowhere at the most picturesque treehouse of all time, that is sadly not the case. What you don’t see from these incredible photos are the people behind it collecting money in order to sit on its steps to take your photo. Yes, you’ll need to pay  50k IDR in order to take these photos! This is quite a lot but it doesn’t matter because people  line up to get their photos taken .

As I visited during COVID, there was no one else here but the two guys told me that in normal times, people would line up for hours in the unforgiving heat to get their photos taken. There would be hundreds of people here waiting to get their photos taken!

The best time of day to visit the Rumah Pohon treehouse is  definitely in the morning.  The sunrise here is absolutely beautiful and you’ll want the rays of the sun to really light up your photo in the morning. They open at 6am and I would highly recommend coming here before 7am to get the best photos!

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking beach is yet another incredible viewpoint that is not to be missed. This actually might be my favorite view of the island and it’s not hard to see why this is the ultimate Instagram island.

You’ll see absolutely incredible views here of the rocky cliffs extending out into the sea surrounded by beautiful beaches and incredible water color. This place really reminded me a lot of the Ionian islands in Greece but maybe just a little more stunning!

From the top of the viewpoint, you are hundreds of meters above sea level. There are very narrow and steep stairs that lead you down to a beach that is as secluded as it is beautiful.

Visit the Gili Islands

The Gili islands are a collection of three small islands in the Lombok province just east of Bali. These three islands: Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Meno, and Gili Air are a very popular group of islands that are perfect for getting away from the huge island of Bali.

I felt that Bali at times was just too big and getting from one area to another took forever. I suppose I had prepared myself for an “island” getaway but in reality, it’s anything but that. The Gili islands are just what you’re looking for in this case.

The three Gili islands are tiny. So tiny that scooters are forbidden on the islands and the only way to get around are by bicycle or horse carriages. Yes, I’m not joking.

The Gili islands are totally different from Bali! In normal times, Gili T is known as the party island with plenty of backpackers, scuba divers, and everything in between. There is a huge selection of bars and clubs on the island that will keep the party going until the early hours.

Gili Meno has become the couples honeymooner island with a more laid back pace of life with the famous underwater statues. Finally, Gili Air is something in between the two islands.

All of the islands have beautiful beaches and is more reminiscent of a traditional beach vacation. Normally, I would never go to Gili T as I’m too old to be partying with college kids until the early morning. However, I did come to Gili T during the COVID pandemic and it was completely dead which made it much more relaxing than in normal times. It was a bit too dead though to the point that there was literally nothing going on. A zombie village almost.

How to get from Bali to Gili Islands

In normal times, there are regular ferries running from Bali to Gili at numerous times of the day. There are departures from Sanur and Pedang Bai with the ferries taking about 2 hours one way.

You can buy your tickets at just about any tourism agent stores or websties. Most tickets will include the cost of the ferry ticket as well as a shuttle transfer to the ferry station. You can expect to pay about 750k IDR per person round trip which includes the ferry ticket and the shuttle transfer.

Bonus: Extend your trip to Komodo National Park

If you have even more time to dedicate to Indonesia and are a big fan of scuba diving, then you must visit Komodo National Park. Komodo is world famous for its scuba diving and it is in my opinion one of the best in the world. The amount of marine life, beautiful corals, and manta rays will really blow you away.

In addition, Komodo is as beautiful underwater as it is above water. The mountain and desert landscape juxtaposed with the turquoise water is something special indeed.

I spent a lot of time in Komodo doing my divemaster certification so make sure to read my Komodo Scuba Diving guide if you’re keen.

Bonus 2: Extend your trip to Raja Ampat National Park

Komodo and Raja Ampat are easily up there as two of the best places to dive in the world. You won’t find much better than this in the world. If you’ve only dived in the Caribbean or Hawaii for example, it literally does not compare whatsoever to diving in Indonesia. Rajat Ampat is one of the most beautiful places in the world and if you get a chance, a visit will surely be worthwhile.

The best way to see Raja Ampat is by a liveaboard that sails through the archipelago visiting numerous dive sites and above ground activities. You actually don’t even need to dive to go on these liveaboards but rather just opt to snorkel and participate in hikes instead.

Otherwise, you could easily book a few nights at one of the numerous homestays or eco lodges in the area. From these lodging options, you can book a day trip to the numerous beautiful sights the park has to offer.

Bali two week Itinerary Day by Day Summary

Here I will summarize my Bali itinerary on a day by day basis. Again, this itinerary is just one of countless options you have at structuring your tirp.

Day 1:  Arrive in Bali, transfer to Canggu Day 2:  Full day Canggu Day 3:  Full day Canggu Day 4:  Canggu to Ubud Day 5:  Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 6:  Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 7: Ubud to Lempoyang Temple Day Trip Day 8:  Sideman Day 9: Sideman Day 10:  Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 11: Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 12: Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 13:  Nusa Penida Day 14: Nusa Penida Day 15: Nusa Penida Day 16: Back to Bali and fly home

Bali 10 day Itinerary

If you’re visiting for a week and a half, this is still a decent amount of time to see the main highlights of Bali. I would structure my trip a bit differently. Remember, driving a scooter will make everything move much quicker and you’ll see much more!

Day 1:  Arrive in Bali, transfer to Canggu Day 2:  Full day Canggu Day 3:  Full day Canggu Day 4:  Canggu to Ubud Day 5:  Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 6:  Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 7: Ubud to Lempoyang Temple Day Trip Day 8:  Sideman Day 9: Sideman Day 10:  Uluwatu/Nusa Dua

Bali Resort and Instagram Itinerary

If you’re visiting Bali but want more of a traditional resort vacation type of experience, then I would recommend skipping places like Canggu. While Canggu is my favorite to stay for an extended period of time, it doesn’t offer the typical vacation vibes that you can get from staying in south.

The most beautiful and luxurious hotels in Bali are in Uluwatu and Nusa Dua. You’ll find large resorts like the Istana, The Edge, Bvlgari, Six Senses etc.

Day 1:  Arrive in Bali, transfer to Uluwatu Day 2:  Uluwatu Resort Day 3: Uluwatu Resort Day 4: Uluwatu Resort Day 5:  Transfer to Ubud Day 6:  Full day in Ubud Day 7: Full day in Ubud Day 8: Day trip to Lempoyang Temple Day 9: Day trip to Nusa Penida Day 10:  Transfer home

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Hi, I recently discovered your blog and I’m really enjoying reading your posts on Bali and the Maldives. Did you get a chance to go to the northeastern Bali coast such as Amed or Tulamben to go diving or do other trips in that area? I have heard the diving is also great and easier for beginners. Thanks!

Hey Monica I did go to amed for a short trip but I spent a lot of time diving in komodo which is far superior imo. I also went to raja ampat which was sjust as incredible. Amed is definitely good for beginners though and a lot of the open water courses that you can do in the canggu area will do their qualifying course dives in amed.

Thanks for sharing this exciting post.

MyFunkyTravel

Backpacking | Budget Travel | Living Abroad

Indonesia Backpacking Route

Before you decide upon an Indonesia backpacking route, you need to get one thing straight. Indonesia is a very large country which covers a vast area with thousands of islands on both sides of the equator. While it is frequently classed as part of Southeast Asia, many of those islands are a world away from the main SE Asian backpacker trail with much of Indonesia closer to Australia than Thailand, Cambodia or Laos.

If you were to visit a new Indonesian island every day, it would take you a little over 49 years until you had seen them all! Presuming you haven’t got half a century of your life to spare on the trip, you will need to pick and choose where you would most like to visit. Below you will find our suggestions for some of the best backpacking places in Indonesia.

Table of Contents

Backpacking indonesia – route info, 1. jakarta, java, 2. dieng plateau, java, 3. yogyakarta, java, island hop – java to bali, island hop – bali to gilis & lombok, 6. gili islands, 7. senaru (for mount rinjani national park), lombok, island hop- lombok to flores, 9. komodo national park, flores, 10. ende (for mount kelimutu), flores, 11. maumere, flores, indonesia backpacking route – how long to spend in each place.

TIME NEEDED – 5-6 WEEKS

The route outlined below could be squeezed into an Indonesia 1 month itinerary by skipping a few destinations or reducing your time in Bali or the Gilis. However we suggest 5-6 weeks for this itinerary and there are loads of options for extending your trip further.

POSSIBLE BUDGET – £850 | €1000 | $1100

Indonesia is very cheap for backpackers on the whole, although costs are perhaps a fraction higher than some of the very cheapest countries in the region. The above budget is designed for shoestring travellers willing to watch what they spend, although it should still allow you a bit of freedom to do any trips or excursions that really appeal.

Figures are based on doing this route for around 6 weeks. However please don’t take this as anything more than a very rough guide! Read more on the cost of travel in Indonesia .

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR BACKPACKERS IN INDONESIA

The cost of travel insurance isn’t included in the budget figures above. You can get a quote in less than a minute from Heymondo who provide well reviewed international travel insurance for longer, backpacking trips. Use our Heymondo promo code to get 5% off.

INDONESIA BACKPACKING JOBS & WORK EXCHANGES

One way to save money and potentially learn a few new skills whilst travelling in Indonesia is to look for work exchanges or short-term jobs. Sign up to Worldpackers to get access to work exchanges in Indonesia . You can get $10 off the annual membership fee by using the Worldpackers promo code “MYFUNKYTRAVELWP”.

Check out our list of the best travel jobs for a bit of inspiration if you’re looking for paid work.

Backpacking Indonesia – A 6 Week Itinerary

The Indonesian capital is a chaotic mega-city home to more than 10 million people with another 20 million living in surrounding towns and villages. It’s an urban jungle with many problems and it may not really be worth staying much more than a day or two unless you happen to be a really dedicated city lover and many travellers opt to skip it altogether with the more enchanting destinations as you head east.

Starting your Indonesian adventure in Jakarta is more akin to being thrown into the middle of the Pacific Ocean than the deep end of a swimming pool but it does have some charms. As the capital, there are many important museums where you can educate yourself on Indonesian history and culture.

As well as its cultural attractions, Jakarta also boasts possibly a surprisingly active nightlife scene, one of the biggest in the Islamic world. The best tactic is to accept the madness of the place and try to understand the day to day lives of local people who for the most part are friendly and eager to engage with you.

As your train or bus heads east from Jakarta, you begin to get a better feel for the real Java. The island is home to roughly 65% of Indonesia’s 275 million population but is still dwarfed in size by the neighbouring islands of Sumatra and Borneo. However it is not too difficult to get away from the hot modern cities and the Dieng Plateau couldn’t feel more different than the bustling capital.

At 2,000 metres above sea level, the Plateau is much cooler and the scenery includes some mysterious lakes, hot springs as well as temples that offer insight into early Javanese religion and culture. Wonosobo is the main town on the Plateau and from there, cheap trips can be organised or you can rent a motorbike and see it alone.

Jogja, as locals call it, is in many ways the cultural capital of Java. A lively city in its own right with a thriving arts scene and a busy little district that caters for the hordes of travellers that come through these parts. The vast palace known as the Kraton Complex is home to the fabulously named Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono and is the main attraction in the town.

However, the reasons why Jogja has become such a popular travel hub lie an hour or so bus ride outside the city. The temples of Borobudur (pictured above) and Prambanan are easily among the most spectacular in all of Southeast Asia and can all be visited in one day, although prepare to go over your daily budget. Read our article on what to see in Yogyakarta for more.

4. Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, Java

A popular stopping point on the lengthy trip from Yogyakarta to Bali. Java is an island full of highly active volcanoes and Mounts Bromo and Semeru are two of the most accessible. Both volcanoes constantly spew out steam and smoke with major eruptions not an uncommon occurrence.

The surrounding landscape is spectacular and at times truly unworldly. There’s plenty of budget accommodation available around the park and it’s probably best to base yourself in a village such as Cemoro Lawang or Wonokitri. Camping is possible inside the park but it does get rather cold at night.

From the national park, head to Banyuwangi on the Eastern tip of Java. This port has ferries to Gilmanuk in Bali that run every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day, during normal times. The ferry crossing is only about half an hour. There is little to do in Gilmanuk so it’d be a good idea to get on a bus somewhere.

Bali is a relatively small island and you can reach any point in the space of two or three hours, however you can easily end up spending weeks on the island. Most travellers base themselves in the South with Kuta Beach the most popular and liveliest choice, although it may be some time still before the really party atmosphere of old returns. For many visitors to the country, Bali is all they see and if you only have one week in indonesia, you may just want to head straight here.

Away from the beach resorts and surfing locations in the south, Bali has many different faces. There are numerous laid back traditional fishing villages and sleepy bays. There are diving and snorkelling opportunities on Nusa Lembongan, a beautiful small island just off the coast of Bali. Although most foreigners think of Bali as a beach destination, the central region is really the cultural heartland and where most of the action happens for locals. Unlike other parts of the country, Bali is dominated by Hindu culture and customs, and there are many fascinating markets, arts and crafts shops, Balinese temples and museums to visit in the mountainous towns and villages.

Regular fast boat services run from Benoa, Serangan Island, Padang Bai and Amed on Bali to the Gili Islands during normal times, although it’s possible there may be some reduced services depending on the Covid situation when you visit. If you don’t want to visit the Gilis, the boats continue onto the coast of mainland Lombok.

The Gilis are small and extremely laid back and a contrast to the mass tourism witnessed in parts of Bali. Gili Trawangan has been a huge hit with backpackers since the early 1990’s and continues to attract a steady flow of budget travellers.

Diving is popular in the Gilis and Trawangan is your best bet for this. Of the three, this is the main party island and is somewhat notorious for the absence of a permanent police presence which has led to it attracting many travellers looking for weed, mushrooms and other drugs. Be warned though, that if you misbehave on the Gilis, you may be forced to take the Walk of Shame and paraded as a criminal in the island’s unique and controversial form of justice.

The quieter islands are Gili Meno, a peaceful and idyllic desert islet and the perfect place to spend a few lazy days. Gili Air, the closest to the Lombok mainland is similar but with more local residents.

Senaru is a pleasant village on the fringe of the Mount Rinjani National Park and has probably the best choice of budget accommodation in the area. Here you can learn about the unique cultural beliefs on the island of Lombok. Close by are beautiful waterfalls and for the brave you can take on the challenge of hiking up Mount Rinjani which, as the second highest volcano in Indonesia, looms large over the entire island.

8. South Lombok

The quiet beaches and bays of South Lombok are the perfect retreat after an active few days on the North of the island. Surfing is popular here and you won’t have to battle with anything like the crowds you find on Bali. Kuta and Tanjung Aan are decent places to base yourself but budget accommodation may be hard to find as even during busier times, the area doesn’t attract that much of a backpacking crowd.

This can be the most troublesome of the trips between the islands. In between Lombok and Flores lies the island of Sumbawa which is very remote and receives very few visitors. There are some options for organised trips from Lombok to Flores such as this one outlined on Southeast Asia Backpacker . They typically include a few sightseeing stops including the Komodo National Park, which is the next stop on our Indonesia itinerary. Alternatively you can make the trip yourself by a combination of ferries and buses but be prepared for a lot of travelling.

For many travellers, a trip to see the menacing looking Komodo dragons is an essential part of backpacking in Indonesia. The dragons are fast, can jump to quite a height, are capable swimmers and are not unknown to have a taste for human flesh so it’s best to seek a guide who will show you around or find a more organised tour.

The Komodo national park consists of three islands just west of the main island of Flores and is home to an abundance of animal life. As well as the famous dragons, the area is home to wild horses, boar, deer, water buffalos, monkeys and some very dangerous snakes. The tropical waters are inhabited by whales, dolphins and various other forms of marine life so diving, kayaking and snorkelling trips are also popular. The nearby town of Labuan Bajo is probably your best bet for budget accommodation from where you can easily reach the islands that make up the Komodo National Park.

Ende is the biggest city on Flores and has a fair bit of history both in town and in the surrounding areas. Nearby there are various caves, hot water pools and lakes, many of which hold bizarre ancient myths and beliefs. The highlight of a visit to these parts is Mount Kelimutu and its incredible crater lakes which regularly change colour and apparently can appear anything from bright turquoise to red and even chocolatey looking brown. Nobody is quite sure why this natural phenomenon takes place but it is likely to have something to do with volcanic activity.

This is the main transport hub on Flores and isn’t far from Ende. There are some decent restaurants and the opportunity to do water-sports but there isn’t much to hang around for. The airport has regular flights to other parts of Indonesia including flights to Denpasar on Bali which is likely to be your best bet for flying home or continuing your travels in a different part of Asia.

Indonesia Map & Itinerary Overview

The Indonesia backpacking itinerary outlined above begins in Java, the beating heart of the nation before heading east to the islands of Bali, Lombok and Flores. It includes ancient temples and fiery volcanoes on Java before experiencing the stunning beaches, great nightlife and thriving Hindu culture of Bali. After that things get more chilled out on the lazy Gili Islands and Lombok before getting up close and personal with the famous Komodo Dragons and volcanic craters on Flores.

This is just a suggested time-frame and obviously you will want to adapt it according to what your primary interests are and what places appeal most. You should also factor in that some days may be largely spent simply getting from A to B as island hopping and getting from place to place can be time consuming, but overall it should be worth it as backpacking Indonesia is a great experience.

Of course this route misses out very large chunks of the country. You could easily spend several weeks or even months in Sumatra, which features in our rundown of the best June destinations . The same goes for the jungle paradise of Borneo with both islands enormous. For the most part, they are wild and relatively rarely visited by travellers and with something like 18,000 islands making up Indonesia, it isn’t hard to get off the beaten track.

If you’ve had enough of Indonesia then from Denpasar you can fly to numerous international destinations including many major cities across South East Asia and the Far East. If you have six months to a year on hand, then you could easily combine this trip with our backpacking route for Southeast Asia or alternatively our  ultimate Thailand Itinerary .

If you’re from Europe or North America and haven’t been to Australia or New Zealand, then you’ve probably never been closer to it than you would be at the end of this route. Bali is very well linked up to Australia by air so you can often get good deals on flights and therefore it’d be easy to combine this with our Australia route . Nature lovers will certainly be tempted to head yet further from home and our backpacking route for New Zealand should provide some inspiration.

Check out our other Asia itineraries!

southeast asia | thailand  |  myanmar | vietnam | laos | indonesia | cambodia |  philippines |  india | taiwan | sri lanka | japan | malaysia

This article was last updated in March 2022. However specific information regarding the current situation regarding the backpacking/travel industry in many of these destinations is hard to verify given, at the time of writing, relatively few travellers have returned to the country following the pandemic.

64 thoughts on “ Indonesia Backpacking Route ”

Hey! Thank you for this post! I was hoping you could give me some advice. I’m currently planning my first solo trip to Indonesia, I expect 4 to 6 weeks, could be extended. I have flexible budget too but would like to keep at the lower end of costs. My type of desired trip is nature, landscapes, forests, beaches and both relax and partying/meeting people/adventures. Would you advice to explore Bali/Gili islands etc in depth and leave Java or is your itinerary from Java and spend less time in Bali etc still ideal for what I am looking for? I’d be so grateful if you could help me out with this. Thank you so much!!

I think Bali would definitely be the best destination for what you’ve described. It has a little bit of all the things you are looking for and you could easily spend several weeks or more just in Bali. Adding in a bit of time in the Gilis and Lombok, you could plan a 4-6 week trip just in that area of Indonesia and it’d probably work out cheaper as you’ll save on transport and can probably just do a return flight to Bali.

I’m not sure from your comment if it’s your first solo trip anywhere or just your first trip to Indonesia? I would say that Java is probably not the best place for a first solo adventure as it’s very busy, particularly in Jakarta, and gets relatively few travellers passing through by comparison to Bali. So I’d possibly advise a first-time solo traveller to head to Bali first where it’ll be easier to meet other travellers and where there’s more travel facilities and help/information available should you need it.

So unless there are any destinations in Java that particularly appeal to you, I think my advice would probably be to focus on Bali/Gili Islands/Lombok and you should get a really nice mix of nature, beaches, partying, meeting people etc.

I am going to Indonesia by myself for 6 and a half weeks, from April 29-June 15. This is my first solo trip and second out of the country. I am flying in and out of Bali and what to spend the majority of my time in between exploring other parts of indonesia. I should note that I am much more attracted to less touristy areas such as flores, however really want to see Borobudur and Ijen crater .I only plan to stay in Kuta due to its convenient location and to see Uluwatu, not my scene. Flying is not an option, I am on a backpacker budget.

Hi! I am travelling to Indonesia in November and I’m going to take the boat from Java to Bali. After getting there where would you recomend to go first? Anywhere up north or going directly to ubud, canggu…? Thanks!

Hi Ana, I’d probably say Central Bali – Ubud and around would be a good idea! The area is among the most beautiful on the island from a nature perspective. It’s also one of the most interesting areas for culture. If you like the idea of quieter beaches more than more busier, party-orientated ones then the North might be a good option too but it probably depends what kind of trip you want to have.

Hi, on applying for visa from uk it says I have to give detailed itinerary. How do back packers manage this? I will be backpacking and want to have a bit of freedom to choose while I’m over there.

Hi, Just do your best to fill out a rough itinerary if you’re asked for it. It’s better than saying ‘I don’t know’! As you long as you know where you will be entering Indonesia, the rest doesn’t matter too much.

Once you’ve got the visa and are in the country, you’re free to do as you please.

Ive just been grated a 60 day visa all i did was gave them my intended itinerary of where i planned to visit (without dates) and proof of my hostel booking in my first destination.

Hey there, really great advice in your blog! I’m a solo traveller planning to spend 10 weeks in Southeast Asia/Indonesia this July-early September. It’s my first time going travelling solo and I’m getting a bit overwhelmed as to where to spend my time and wondered if you had any advice? My plan so far is to fly into and out of Singapore and I know that I really want to visit Malaysia, Thailand and Bali but not sure what the most efficient route would be. I would love to see as much as possible and if there is chance to also see Cambodia/Vietnam/Laos/Sumatra I would, but don’t want to stretch myself too thin and feel rushed. My budget excluding my return flight is £1200 – is this doable for 10 weeks in several different areas? Many thanks!!

Hi Eleanor, I wouldn’t say it’s impossible but I think very few backpackers in SEA these days get by on that kind of budget, which seems to work out about £17 or $22 per day (if my maths is right!).

In terms of a route, you could probably look at doing flights between Singapore and Denpasar (Bali) and then onto Bangkok before travelling by land in Thailand and Malaysia (plus perhaps the odd place in Cambodia and/or Laos). I think that order would work best weather-wise as the rains are most intense in mainland SEA in July but have eased a bit by August. You might at least be able to get better deals on accommodation at that time. I would suggest spending as little time in Singapore as possible if you’re to have much chance of sticking to that budget.

Overall, I’d suggest trying to find at least an extra £200-300 from somewhere if you want to visit both Bali and the main parts of SEA. You’d be really limited in terms of not having much money for activities/trips/nights out otherwise. I’d suggest skipping Sumatra either way as although it’s cheap there, you would probably need to add an extra two flights to your trip to do that.

If you are totally restricted to that budget then I think I’d be tempted to just choose either Indonesia or mainland SEA rather than trying to visit both. 10 weeks would be a nice amount of time for a big trip in either.

Hope this helps! Happy to answer other questions/doubts.

Hi, thanks so much for your advice!

I am on quite a tight budget so my max budget for the trip is probably £1300 excluding my main return flight. I am thinking of maybe going for 9 weeks instead of 10 so would have around 60 days of travelling after flight times.

And yes, I’ve taken out Sumatra and maybe will do that next year, so am looking at arriving in singapore (only planning to spend 2 days there) then going onto malaysia, up through thailand and then onto cambodia, vietnam and maybe laos.

I do really want to go to Bali, but will take this out if it is too costly. Would you recommend any country in particular for a first time solo female traveller?

Also, if I were to do 9 weeks on £1300, it would come to around £20 per day – would you say this is doable? (I wouldn’t be spending much at all on alcohol/nights out etc)

Thanks so much!

Hi Eleanor, Yes I think that sounds reasonable enough. £20/day is a decent figure to aim for. Maybe keep an eye on the exchange rates though as your trip nears, as Brexit stuff I guess could lead to more big changes to the value of the £ which could have an effect.

The whole region is pretty safe by global standards for solo female travellers so I don’t think I’d particularly recommend one country over another. I think Sumatra and anywhere in Indonesia besides Bali is a bit more challenging as a first-time traveller though as there’s not really a ready-made backpacking trail as such to follow. So probably it’s a good idea to look at doing that in the future and sticking to the mainland SEA countries first time.

With Bali, I’d perhaps suggest waiting until you are a few weeks into your trip and see how much you find yourself spending before you make any decision. It looks to be about £50 each way from Singapore to Bali for example plus any baggage fees. It doesn’t look like it is much more expensive to book last minute so you should be able to go with the flow to some extent on that.

Yes I’ll definitely keep an eye out with Brexit, who knows what will happen! Thanks so much for all your help and advice!!

Wonderful post. Your route is an efficient trip. The map also describe how it flow, it’s smart idea. Thanks!

Just info. Here the backpacking guidance in Bali: http://www.bali-backpacker.com/ It provide a lot of information you need such as entrance fee, public transport, itineraries, etc. Thank you Myfunkytravel! 🙂

Hi, great blog you got there! I am planning on backpacking somewhere in Indonesia for 3 weeks (for the first time!!). I’m looking for recommendations on where to go. I want to see incredible nature, and/or(local) culture. I’m aiming for not spending more than €1000 during my visit, so flight and pre-parture costs are excluded. Where do you recommend me to go? Which airport do I pick?

Hi Axelle, If you have only 3 weeks, I’d suggest maybe starting in Bali (book a return fight to Denpasar Airport) and then head East to the end of the route and fly back to Denpasar via one of the local airlines. Certainly you could do that section and not spend more than €1000 and you could probably do it all in 3 weeks at a push.

It would mostly be a nature kind of trip but there’s plenty of culture in Bali although it’s distinct to the rest of Indonesia.

Definitely worth the journey is Sumatra! Enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Toba, trekking in the jungle surrounded by orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park, swimming in the sea of Banyak-islands and going diving in Pulau Weh. Had a lovely experience with Orang 2 Utan (www.orang2utan.com) which help organizing trips, but also are just open for tips on accommodations and so on.. The good thing in Sumatra is that everything is equally very affordable like Java. In Bali and the eastern areas you will spend a bit more.

First: What a great blog you got! Second: How did you fly back home after you’ve reached Flores? Did you go by a domestic flight back to Java or what did you do? Thanks in advantage, Freja from Denmark

Hi Freja, thanks for your kind words.

Was heading out to another part of SE Asia so did something slightly different but to head back to Europe, you’d probably be best taking a flight from Flores to Denpasar, Bali which is the closest with major connections out of the country. You could maybe try to book a flight in to Jakarta and home from Bali (if you’re only doing Indonesia and roughly following this route).

Hi I am planning visit Indonesia this Christmas holiday , anyone wanna join ? I will start form Lombok , then go to nusa lembongan,Sulawasi bunaken and jaya Ampat .

hello I’m Indonesian, Don’t worry to come here .. Every people looks very friendly and kind with tourists. And you can find many cultures from every island, foods, stories, and others..

Happy enjoy for come here soon

interesting blog. any budget boat travel island between bali, the gilis, komodo? thanks!

Plenty of boats between all the main islands in Indonesia and certainly on this route and pretty cheap. Don’t have any up-to-date info on the latest costs though so if anyone has done something similar to recently be great to know!

There are direct boats from Bali to the Gilis but they are pretty exclusively used by tourists/travellers so it might be cheaper to go first to lombok and then head to the gilis from there.

Fantastic post! We followed a fairly similar route in our 3 week backpacking trip to Indonesia… and absolutely loved it 🙂 Check out our blog for more inspiration and tips: http://bonatravels.com/2013/08/11/country-summary-indonesia/

Do you have any personal suggestions on must sees in Indonesia as well as placea to stay?

Really enjoyed your blog about Bali. Planning on going for about 12 days in Jan. I know its not much time, but that is all the time we have. We are lookng to enjoy the beach, hike, explore, and enjoy the culture most of all. Not looking for high end places to stay. We want the most of our stay there and don’t know what places to see in that short amount of time. Any suggestions?

Great post you have here. I plan to travel Indonesia for few weeks or a month this December. I will probably start from Bandung and take train to somewhere else. Been to Bromo last month, I love that place 🙂 It’s a amazing.

hey I’m going to travel indonesia aswell in december for a month!! Im traveling on my own…let keep in touch if u want some company 🙂

Change of plans. I’m still stuck at work. Won’t be able to travel until early next year 🙁 hope you have a great trip in Indonesia!

Francesco i plan on traveling to indonesia as well, in january. Lets keep in contact

Hi Rebecca, did you get the info you need? I’m also travelling to Indonesia from UK on 17th Sept (first time travelling and going solo!) so am looking for fellow travellers to poss meet up with. Let me know if you fancy meeting up if our paths cross, if there’s a way to pm I can forward you my facebook name so you can check out some info about me 🙂

Hey, I’m travelling to Indonesia later in December and would love to hear about your experience. How did it go?

Hi Gumji! I just love Indonesia!! How much time do you have? Don’t spend too much time in Bali, exept if you go to less touristy places… Kuta bali is good for partying only. Ubud is nice (actually, around Ubud it’s nice) but so many tourists… You will see only shops in Ubud. The rice terraces are impressive! You should Spend more time in Lombok! It is more beautiful than Bali, cheaper and less touristy! I went back a second time at the end of my journey just because I fell in love with this island! Kuta-lombok (not bali!!) has manyyy awesome and not crowded beaches! It is worth staying at least 3-4 days if you like beaches! The Gili islands are very close to Lombok (10 minutes of boat, US $1!) if you want to party, you can go to gili T and if you want to relax, you can go to gili Air. Both islands are really nice. I dont party too much (but still a bit) so I got a private room in Gili T so I could sleep well when I wanted. It is beautiful and peaceful as there is no cars or scooters on the islands… If you like diving, then you must dive in gili 🙂 Do you plan to go to java? I was supposed to travel in Java for 11 days but after being on the road for 16-18 hours to get to Bromo, I got tired and bought a ticket back to Lombok. Java is time consuming… If you dont mind being on the road with night buses/trains… Go for it. Java has many beautiful things to see! Yogyakarta, bromo, pangandaran (green canyon) are great places to go. Hope this helps… I plan to go again next year! I fell in love with this country and the people <3

I didnt have time to do the Flores and Komodo islands but I heard a lot from it! People say it's worth the détour! Have fun

Ah that sounds amazing!! Thanks so much for that Karyne 🙂 Yeh I was tossing between java and lombok – so torn that I can’t visit both! At the moment my rough itinerary is Tulamben – Gili T – Gili A – Lombok – Ubud. Any places to stay you would recommend?

As you are gonna travel in December, you will have plenty of choices for accommodation! Don’t worry. I went back to Gili T in peak season without a booking and found myself a room in 10 minutes 🙂 In Ubud, I stayed in “In Da Lodge” its cheap, clean and it has a pool! A lot of backpackers go there. In Gili T, it depends if you wanna have a private room or you wanna go for hostels. You can find many on booking.com I staying in a homestay (pondok Hadi Homestay). It was simple and clean! In Lombok, if you go to Kuta, you will not be able to book something online but dont worry, when you arrive by bus, people come to you and they take you to their homestay. In Kuta Lombok, that’s where I found the cheapest room in Indonesia! A room with 2 beds and breakfast included for $10 US… For 2 people!!! In peak season!! 😀 of course, they started at $20 but went down to $10. So I’m sure you will have a lot of fun… Try to meet with local people… They are awesome!

Hi Karyne, I am going to Indonesia on the 5th of Oktober until the 5th of November. I am starting in Jakarta, my plan is to fly back from Bali to Jakarta when I leave. I am 17 years old (almost 18), do you think you meet enough people who are young like me? I am looking forward to go but I am also a bit scared because I am alone haha. My plan is: Java – Bali – Lombok (Gili Islands). Are there things I must need to do? I am also going for my Padi on the Gili Islands.

Hi! well… The age average is a bit older for sure but maybe you’ll recognize and see the younger travellers more than me. Make sure to sleep in dorm rooms to meet more people 🙂 Jakarta is not worth seeing so much so don’t waste your time there. Bali is nice but make sure to visit less touristy places. I made the mistake to go to Kuta for wayyy too long in the beginning of my trip! If you have time, go to Lombok island!! This island is awesome, still so much cheaper than Bali and moreee beautiful!!! Go to Kuta Lombok (yess there is a kuta bali AND a kuta lombok) kuta lombok has the most beautiful beaches i have seen in my life! And believe me, i have seen plenty! Enjoy your holiday and please, connect with the locals: they are awesome 🙂

Hey Karyne, is it really possible to teach in China without a degree? I heard its illegal/dodgy and that if you don’t have a degree, you end up getting crappy teaching jobs that don’t pay well/treat you like crap

Hi Eda! It is illegal to teach without a degree but everybody does it. I worked in a private school, 25 hours per week, and I had one day off each week. I made $1500 per month (which was 3 X what I needed to live comfortably). They also paid my appartment, bought bran new furniture, paid for my visa, etc! They also treated me really well! The only reason I didnt stay there another year was because i was starting my studies in Canada. The name of the school is DDDragon English School (they have many everywhere in china), if you are interested 🙂

Hi Efa! It is illegal to teach in China without a degree but everybody does it… I had a student-visa. The school paid my university so that I could learn mandarin while working in China. I made $1500 per month, with apartment, visa, wifi and $1000 bonus at the end of my contract included. They treated me really well… The only reason i didnt stay more than a year was because I wanted to go back to school in Canada. But seriously, I have nothing bad to say about my experience. The school’s name is DDDragon English School. They have schools everywhere in China. You can also find many (thousands) jobs on this website: http://www.davescafe.com That’s where I found the job 🙂

Hi I’m looking at traveling to Indonesia in sept from the UK but I’m finding hard to find accommodation price or websites does any one have any advice Thanks

Hi, i’m planning a week travel to East Java (Semeru) to Lombok starting July 25. Later in September to mt. Rinjani. Am a native Indonesian and would be glad to help with the information you need. Hit me up at jakdev1@yahoodotcom

Ive spent 10 months in Indonesia alone and heading back again soon .. Indonesia is really like 100 countries in one pretty much more diverse than Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam combined together.

Hello! If I start in Bali heading to Jakarta, how many days should I at least allocate for that? What would be the break down of days that you can recommend? Thanks!

Thanks for this post! I am planning my trip to Indonesia. I will be travelling for 6-7 weeks this summer. I am just starting to look for the things I don’t wanna miss! Is it difficult to find transportation between islands? Is it expensive too? That was pretty much my only concern as there are so many islands!!

Not too expensive or difficult as given the country is just a huge collection of islands transportation between the islands is very important and it’s easy to get between the main ones although the Lombok to Flores bit of this route can be tricky. Often flying can work out cheaper. lion Air is the main budget airline and they have an extensive network and cheap flights.

Thanks! It helps a lot!

Hello karyne, I’m an IndonesiAn.. I’m excited about your trip, how if we travelling together, since I’m Indonesian I think it would help you in many things also I didn’t have a friend to travel Yet..

Hi Efsi, When will you be travelling? We could meet somewhere and visit a few places together.

i think i’m going back this summer, but i still didn’t know the date exactly maybe july or august.. would you like to chat about this via email or facebook..

Hey Karyne, I’m travelling from Canada to Indonesia this summer as well. Would love to hear about your plans and perhaps meet up to visit a few places. I am heading there in July.

Hi Lovey! I’ll be travelling there from July 14 to August 24. Add me on facebook and we can talk about our itinerary 🙂 Karyne corbeil (I have an orange and black dress)

hi karyne, im indonesian woman stay at central java. ask me whenever you need information about java island, will try to help u

Hi anung, i would be more than happy if you could have a look at my itinerary! Send me an e-mail so that we can talk about it 🙂 [email protected]

i lived in manado for 2 months with my ex fiancé/gf and her family … I had a magical time there and it was very friendly …I now owe money bcos of the loan I took out to finance this trip but I really am getting itchy feet to be there again …I really would love to know how or if its possible that I could get there again for next to nothing or working my way across there then trying to find work when I am there or I could wait and save and do a TEFL course here in England then volunteer and see if I can teach at an international school … I would love to go anywhere in this location …Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, I would even see if any missionary work needs done there if I knew any sites that would take help of any kind ???

TEFL is a decent idea… If you worked in somewhere like Korea, Singapore or Hong Kong you could save quite a lot of money to travel and explore the region. It’s possible in Thailand and the other countries too but you wouldn’t earn so much. Don’t have any info on missionary work sorry!

I taught English in China 2 years ago and loved it! I made 3 times the money I needed to live comfortably. I didn’t have a degree (only a TESOL certificate). I saved $1000 monthly. Not so bad… I know some people who have a degree and earn a lot more! Go check out this website: http://www.eslcafe.com/ It’s awesome. That’s how I found my job! Good luck 🙂

Visit krakatoa (west java), kiluan bay (lampung-sumatera), meru betiri national park, sempu island (east java), moluccas (maluku), raja ampat papua, bunaken (north sulawesi), macassar (south sulawesi), mentawai big waves would be be nice. As mentioned, travel all Indonesia can not be in a short time. So you must make your priority: big waves, diving, beaches, mountain, culture, or other?

What a great introduction to destinations in Indonesia, it must be hard to make a short list for Indonesia. I first travelled to Indonesia in the late 1970’s and have been back multiple times since, on my own and with children, some short trips other extended trips. While the sights and attractions of Indonesia always amaze, my one suggestion is to take time to stop at any location and strike up conversation with a local. These experienes are the most memorable. If you try to rush things, you will get frustrated and the Indonesians will loose respect for you. Also dress modestly and neatly, make the effort to learn just a few words of Bahasa, smile and laugh, you will gain much respect and leave with fond memories and a desire to return.

thanks for this terry… great advice!

If we just wanted to do bali and komodo dragon islands over say a week, is that possible?

It is possible but you wouldn’t be able to see all that Bali has to offer. Might be worth catching a flight from Denpasar (Bali) —Labuan Bajo as you are a bit pushed for time and it would be fairly cheap.

This itenerary looks really great! I imagine you haven’t mentiined a timeline as of course it depends on the pace and plans of the traveller. That said, would you be able to suggest a number of weeks that would be ideal to cover this route?

As a rough guide:

10 days to 2 weeks on Java (only a few real highlights but it takes a long time to cross) 2 weeks on Bali/Gili Islands (if you are a beach lover then more, if not then less) 2 weeks for the rest

So maybe 5-6 weeks would be about right but you could certainly do it in a month or less if you are pushed for time.

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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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