Indonesia Travel Insights

Indonesia Island Hopping: Bali, Gili Air & Nusa Penida - 15 Days

This island-hopping adventure begins at the sea temple of Tanah Lot. Explore the temple and the nearby Sangeh Monkey Forest, then transfer to Ubud, where you'll discover the surrounding countryside in a vintage VW convertible, climb volcanic Mount Batur & visit a traditional village. Move on to the Gili Islands to enjoy some excellent snorkeling and beach time, then travel to Jimbaran for more beaches, a visit to a traditional fresh seafood market, and a Kecak dance performance at a temple.

Highlights of Bali & Borneo: Pangkalan Bun, Munduk, Ubud & Sanur - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary is great for nature enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Begin your adventure with some wildlife spotting on a Borneo river cruise from Pangkalan Bun. Next, fly to Bali to explore the waterfalls around Munduk, visit Jatiluwih rice terraces, see Ubud by VW convertible, and climb Mount Batur. Afterward, head to Sanur, where you'll explore ancient temples, go snorkeling, and tour the nearby beaches.

Explore Indonesia's Volcanoes & Temples: Yogyakarta, Surakarta, East Java & Bali - 11 Days

This adventurous itinerary will take you to some of Indonesia's top cultural attractions and natural wonders. Discover temples around Yogyakarta, see Surakarta's verdant tea plantations and hike up volcanic Mount Bromo. Then move onto Kalibaru, where you'll see cocoa, coffee, and sugar plantations, and explore Muncar fishing port. Enjoy another spectacular hike up Mount Ijen, then end your journey in Bali, where you'll tour Ubud and its surroundings in an open-top VW convertible.

Balinese Art, Temples & Waterfalls: Ubud to Sidemen - 13 Days

With cascading waterfalls, lush terraced rice fields, and endless jungles, the Indonesian province of Bali is a true tropical paradise. On this 13-day itinerary, you'll see a traditional Balinese dance performance and explore local temples in Ubud. Marvel at the floating water temple on Lake Bratan and hike to the refreshing waterfalls at Suwat. Work up an appetite on a true off-road adventure in Munduk, then learn about the art of Balinese cooking and sarong weaving in Sidemen.

Bali's Rituals & Cuisine: Ubud, Sidemen & Jimbaran- 13 Days

Awaken your senses on this 13-day journey through the Indonesian island of Bali. Start in Ubud to visit Tegallalang rice terraces and its famous Monkey Forest. Worship in water temples and explore Balinese life and cuisine. Discover ritual temple offerings outside of Sidemen as you trek along its rice paddy fields. Travel through the jungle toward the beach paradise of Jimbaran to get your fill of seafood. Finish your trip lounging on the beach before leaving this island fully relaxed.

The Wonders of Sumatra: Nature, Culture & Orangutans - 9 Days

Go off the beaten path on this nine-day adventure to Sumatra, one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia. It begins in the northern province with a hike through virgin rainforests to spend time with orangutans. Then, take a road trip to West Sumatra, where you'll discover the unspoiled beauty of the Minangkabau Highlands and visit traditional villages where the history is as deep as the culture.

Balinese Escape: Ubud to the Gili Islands - 13 Days

Experience tropical island life on this 13-day escape to the ornate temples and lush landscapes of Bali. See the famous sea temple of Tanah Lot, then head to Ubud to look out over the Tegallalang rice terraces and learn to cook Balinese dishes with a local. Wind down with plenty of time to relax and snorkel on the car-free Gili Islands, then end your trip with a sunset cruise and barbecue on the golden beaches of Uluwatu.

Orangutans & Elephants: Discover the Sumatra Jungle of Indonesia - 6 Days

Venture through the jungle on this six-day exploration of Sumatra's UNESCO-listed Gunung Leuser National Park. Trek through lush forests to catch glimpses of colorful lizards, exotic birds, leaf monkeys, macaques, and even the elusive orangutan. Relax along the Bohorok River floating in an inner tube or go whitewater rafting. Explore the rugged terrain of Tangkahan by 4WD and mingle with the elephants before relaxing in secluded hot springs and refreshing waterfalls.

Wander South Sulawesi: Rituals & Traditions of Indonesia - 6 Days

Spend six days exploring Indonesia's Tana Toraja region, home of the traditions and rituals of the Torajan ethnic group. Enjoy a scenic journey from Makassar as you leave the stunning coastline for mountains and thick forests. Visit the Cliffs of Lemo and learn the Torajans' beliefs about death. Explore the villages of Ke'te and Palawa with their traditional sweeping roofed homes before hiking among rice fields, bamboo fields, and cocoa plantations.

Bali Adventure: Temples, Jungles & Beaches - 13 Days

Venture through the heart of Bali on this 13-day journey that hits the highlights of the diverse Indonesian island. Start in Ubud, where you'll discover the famous Tegalalang rice fields and climb Mount Batur for breakfast at sunrise on its summit. Go snorkeling near Menjangan Island and trek through Bali Barat National Park. Visit the temples at Lempuyang Gateway before lazing on the pristine beaches of Amed and Pasir Putih. Finish your trip with intensive snorkeling and beach fun in Sanur.

Culture & Beaches in Indonesia: Bali & Gili Islands - 12 Days

Experience the world-famous beauty of Indonesia's islands. Begin in the town of Ubud in Bali, where you'll hike through terraced rice fields, learn about local culture and crafts, and visit historic temples. Then, travel by speedboat to Gili Air. You'll snorkel, spot sea turtles, and explore its neighboring islands, with plenty of time for beachside relaxation. Return to Bali and travel to Seminyak to enjoy temple tours, a traditional dance performance, and a surf class.

Indonesia's South Sulawesi & the Tana Toraja Tribe - 9 Days

During this nine-day cultural odyssey, you'll see some of the most beautiful locales and visit the most isolated tribes in eastern Indonesia. It takes place in South Sulawesi, a region known for its beautiful coastline, lush highlands, and traditional architecture of the Tana Toraja people. After meeting locals and learning about unique funeral rituals, you'll finish the trip on the coast at the paradise of Bira.

Unforgettable Indonesia: Bali & the Gili Islands - 11 Days

Perfect for leisurely exploring, this fun and culture-filled 11-day itinerary mixes things up with temple viewing, rice paddy walks, and time on the beach. Meet local people, travel in style in a VW convertible, snorkel in warm waters alongside turtles, and sail away on a sunset cruise. A stay on charming Gili Air will introduce you to a slower pace of life, where motor vehicles don’t exist, and you can snooze in a hammock by the ocean at a cool beach bar.

8 Days in Indonesia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have eight days in Indonesia, stick to one main island with a possible visit to nearby lesser islands, like the Komodo Archipelago off of Flores. Consider Bali's popular southeast to see monkeys, rice paddies, and beaches. Discover the wildlife on Flores, covering its length, with fewer crowds than in Bali, or explore Java and check out the world's largest Buddhist temple of Borobudur. Or, for a unique holiday, head to Lombok for secluded jungle waterfalls, remote beaches, and untouristed islands.

Winter Highlights of Bali & Nusa Penida - 15 Days

Embrace tropical temperatures and fewer crowds as you get to know the real Bali on this 15-day winter getaway. Snorkel amid the corals of Bali Barat National Park, discover the lush rice fields, monkey forests, and waterfalls of Munduk and Ubud, and take a sunrise trek up the active volcano of Mount Batur. Hop over to the tiny island of Nusa Penida to explore its hidden beaches, then it's back to Bali's southernmost point to wind down your vacation on the golden sands of the Bukit Peninsula.

Sumatra Winter Adventure: Jungles, Volcanoes & Orangutans - 10 Days

Experience the tropical climate of Sumatra this winter on a 10-day jungle adventure. Touch down in the island's capital of Medan before escaping to Tangkahan for jungle treks and river tubing. Wild orangutans await in UNESCO-listed Gunung Leuser National Park, followed by a sunrise hike to the peak of stratovolcano Mount Sibayak. Your holiday ends with a motorbike tour around Samosir Island, surrounded by glittering Lake Toba.

Indonesia's Volcanoes & Dragons: Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen, Bali & Komodo – 6 Days

Come face to face with Indonesia's smoldering volcanoes and Komodo dragons on this epic six-day tour. The adventure begins in east Java, where you'll hike to the summit of Mount Bromo and discover Mount Ijen's acid lakes and blue sulphuric flames. Make a pit stop in idyllic Bali before cruising around Komodo National Park, a UNESCO-listed gem where you'll enjoy Komodo dragon sightings and snorkel with manta rays.

Winter in Bali: Temples, Countryside & Beaches - 9 Days

Escape the winter blues with this laid-back, nine-day interlude on Indonesia's "Island of the Gods." Start among the emerald valleys of Ubud, where you'll tour the countryside in a vintage Volkswagen, explore tranquil ancient temples, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Then it's off to the coastal town of Sanur to unwind on hidden beaches, snorkel off exotic islands, and celebrate your final night in Bali with a sunset barbecue on Jimbaran Beach.

2 Weeks in Indonesia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can cover some serious ground with two weeks in Indonesia, exploring up to three different islands, or basing yourself on one or two islands for more in-depth cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. For example, explore the wilds of Kalimantan and the Derawan Islands or pair Java and Bali for a smaller radius. From experiencing ancient village traditions and hiking the jungles of Sulawesi to honeymooning in Bali—your options are plentiful.

From Yogyakarta to Bali - 14 Days

Chock-full of fun activities, this two-week sojourn through Java and Bali is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who also want to check off the top sights and cultural experiences. From the ancient Buddhist complex of Borobudur to the artist studios of Ubud, in-between, you'll hike to the summit of Mt Ijen Volcano, snorkel around Menjangan Island, cycle through the Jatiluwih rice paddies, learn the art of Balinese cooking, and much more.

Honeymooner's Secret Escape to Bali - 14 Days

You don't have to be a newlywed to enjoy this romantic itinerary ideal for adventure-loving couples with two weeks to spend. Together, you'll immerse yourselves in Bali's scenic beauty, hike to a hidden waterfall for a picnic lunch, receive a honeymooner's holy blessing ceremony, and indulge in sunning and snorkeling while savoring being romantic on tiny, heart-shaped Pulo Cinta, the "magical Island of Love."

Best Time of Year to Visit Indonesia

Indonesia is a massive country comprised of many regions and thousands of islands spread from east to west across the Indian and Pacific oceans. It's also primarily tropical. Other than a wet and dry season, the temperatures here change little throughout the year. So planning the perfect Indonesian getaway is as simple as picking the suitable months to avoid the heavier rains.

How Many Days to Spend in Indonesia

To get the most out of Indonesia's vast cultural and natural treasures, you'll need at least 10 days. This is enough time to see different archipelagos or experience the highlights of a major tourist hub like Bali. In five days or a week, you can still enjoy beach time, snorkeling, and sailing around a couple of locales, but two weeks really opens things up to go off the beaten path and visit multiple islands.

Indonesian Adventure: Trekking, Tribes & Birdwatching in West Papua - 12 Days

Discover the rich culture and incredible biodiversity of West Papua on this rugged, 12-day adventure. Get to know the people of the Dani tribe as you're welcomed into remote villages and embark on short, scenic hikes to the sweeping highlands and rushing rivers of the Wamena Valley. Then it's time to set out on an unforgettable multi-day trek through the jungle, exploring your lush environs by day and camping under the stars by night. After celebrating your achievements at a local Dani Pig Festival, transfer to Nimbokrang to search for the island's spectacular birds-of-paradise and end your adventure with a scenic boat trip across Lake Sentani.

Sumba Island: Indonesia's Undiscovered Paradise - 10 Days

Located just an hour's flight east of Bali, the "forgotten island" of Sumba remains one of Indonesia's best-kept secrets. On this laid-back, 10-day itinerary, you'll explore the island's secluded beaches, turquoise waterfalls, and lush jungles at a relaxed pace. Along the way, visit historic Sumbanese thatched villages, learn about the local Marapu culture, and watch locals create their famed ikat textiles.

Jewels of Indonesia: Flores & the Komodo Archipelago - 8 Days

Known as the "Jewel of Indonesia," Flores boasts lush mountains, volcanic lakes, and stunning pink beaches—with none of the crowds of nearby Bali. Hike, swim, and snorkel your way around the island on this eight-day expedition, discovering the rich culture of the local people along the way. As your trip nears its end, it's time to board a short cruise through the neighboring Komodo Archipelago, where you'll hop between remote islands and come face to face with Komodo dragons and manta rays.

Indonesia from Jungle to Beach: Sumatra, Java & Lombok - 16 Days

From the orangutan forests of Sumatra to the ancient temples of Java and the pink beaches of Lombok, this 16-day itinerary introduces you to three of Indonesia's most beguiling islands. The trip starts out with an adventurous slant, as you trek through dense jungles, climb to dramatic waterfalls, and ascend volcanic peaks by Jeep. Then it's time to wind down with a week of laidback sun, sand, and snorkeling on the idyllic shores of Lombok.

Journey Through Bali & Komodo - 14 Days

This two-week adventure combines the best of Bali with an unforgettable detour through the wild Komodo Archipelago. Starting on the "Island of the Gods," you'll hike to waterfalls, canoe to Balinese temples, meet the monkeys of Sangeh, and sample mouthwatering street food from local markets. Then it's off to the island of Flores to set sail on a two-night cruise through the stunning Komodo National Park. Snorkel with manta rays and spot Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, then head back to Bali to end your adventure soaking up some sun on the breathtaking beaches of the Bukit Peninsula.

Beautiful Bali: Tanah Lot, Ubud, Sideman & Jimbaran - 8 Days

Escape to paradise on this immersive eight-day exploration of Indonesia's most popular island. Focused on Bali's southern districts, you'll hop between the cultural center of Ubud, the lush rice fields of Sideman, and the breathtaking beaches of the Bukit Peninsula. Along the way, try your hand at Balinese cooking, explore the volcanic Mount Bakur by vintage VW, and meet the monkeys of the clifftop temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu.

Wild Borneo Expedition: Central Kalimantan & the Derawan Islands - 14 Days

This intrepid, two-week adventure starts deep in the jungles of Indonesian Borneo, discovering the distinctive culture and traditions of its Dayak people. After some time in the ancient village of Tumbang Malahoi, board a three-day river cruise to venture further into the biodiverse hinterland and see endangered orangutans. Then it's time to trade the jungle for the beach as you fly east to the stunning Derawan Islands for a week of snorkeling, sunbathing, and shark-watching in a postcard-perfect island paradise.

10 Days in Indonesia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days to spend in Indonesia, many travelers visit Bali for a highlights tour of the island's historic temples, beautiful beaches, and scenic rice fields. You could focus more specifically on Balinese culture, choosing an itinerary that features local experiences like cooking classes or combine several days in Bali with time on another island, like Nusa Penida, an excellent destination for snorkeling. Another option is to skip Bali and explore Java's natural wonders or cruise around the Raja Ampat Archipelago on a traditional wooden sailboat.

1 Week in Indonesia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A week in Indonesia allows you to focus on Bali, visit temples and swim in waterfalls, or combine a few days in Bali with a snorkeling and boating adventure around Lombok. Get away from it all on a trip to western Flores and the Komodo Archipelago, hiking through secluded caves and sleeping in a cone-shaped hut. Animal lovers will opt for an itinerary around North Sumatra, featuring elephants and the chance to spot orangutans in the wild, or a trip to Borneo and Java, rich with wildlife viewing opportunities.

5 Days in Indonesia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Make the most of five days in Indonesia and opt for a Bali highlights tour that features jungle hikes, snorkeling, and enjoying the nightlife in resort town Seminyak. Or choose a Bali tour that focuses on the outdoors, from waterfalls to rice terraces to a unique "floating temple." Other excellent choices include a tour around Java, home to the world's largest Buddhist temple, or a beach-oriented itinerary that features a cruise through Komodo National Park.

Explore Authentic Bali - 10 Days

Soak up the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bali on this wide-reaching 10-day tour around the island. In addition to traditional sightseeing and outdoor adventures, from visiting temples to swimming in a waterfall, this itinerary features a range of local experiences—you'll learn to cook regional dishes with a Balinese chef and spend time with a local family. You'll also snorkel, canoe, and hike through terraced rice fields before finishing the adventure on one of the island's best "hidden" beaches.

Best of Java - 10 Days

Discover Java's fascinating culture and spectacular natural landscapes on this 10-day itinerary. Hike to mountaintops for sunrise views of volcanoes, admire the countryside during a scenic train ride, and gaze upon a turquoise volcanic crater. Then you'll sightsee in the cultural capital of Yogyakarta and visit two world-famous temples—Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

Highlights of Java - 5 Days

Explore Java on this 5-day tour around the island's cultural monuments and pristine natural landscapes. Base yourself in Yogyakarta for the first few days, home to the world's largest Buddhist temple. Then continue on to Surakarta, also known as Solo, to shop for batik and attend a traditional Javanese cultural show. Round out the adventure with a trekking day around the slopes of Mount Lawu, hiking to a pair of historic temples and a beautiful waterfall.

Highlights of Bali - 7 Days

Get to know the beautiful island of Bali on this weeklong tour of the island. Starting in Canggu, you'll drive along scenic Pupuan Road, passing terraced rice fields and jungle landscapes on your way to a temple that appears to float in mid-air. Hike to the gorgeous Munduk Waterfalls, then trek to the summit of Mount Batur for spectacular views at sunrise, followed by a soak in hot springs. You'll finish with a day of market browsing and strolling on the beach in Sanur.

Bali & Lombok Family Adventure - 7 Days

This weeklong adventure around the Indonesian islands of Bali and Lombok, featuring a range of outdoor activities, is ideal for families. The itinerary starts in Ubud, where you'll get a taste of the island's rich culture, take a cooking class with a Balinese chef, and hike to a waterfall. Then catch a ferry to Lombok, where you'll base yourself while exploring the pristine waters around the Gili Islands on snorkeling excursions. With a great balance of relaxation and active pursuits, this 7-day trip is ideal for travelers of all ages.

Discover Borneo & Java - 7 Days

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of two of Indonesia's most diverse islands, Java and Borneo. This week-long trip begins with a day of cultural sightseeing in bustling Jakarta, then catch a flight to Borneo, where you'll board a boat for a jungle cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park. Visit an orangutan rehabilitation center and spot wild pigs and monkeys in their natural habitats, relaxing on the boat's deck at night. Then jet back to Java and spend the last few days of the trip touring colorful Yogyakarta and side-tripping to the world's largest Buddhist temple.

Island Adventure in Nusa Penida & Bali - 5 Days

Take in the natural beauty of Indonesia's islands, from stunning rock formations to dreamy sunsets, on this 5-day adventure. Traveling by boat, you'll divide your time between the islands of Nusa Penida and Bali. Visit an underground temple and snorkel with manta rays offshore Nusa Penida before cruising over to Bali for a few days of hiking, surfing, and sunbathing on world-class beaches. Finish the trip with a night out on the town in Seminyak — a lively way to end this whirlwind island tour!

Beautiful Beaches of Lombok & Komodo - 5 Days

This photogenic 5-day trip takes you to some of Indonesia's best beaches. Spend the first few days exploring the island of Lombok, stopping to learn about Sasak indigenous traditions in a fishing village before going snorkeling in the aquamarine waters off Gili Nanggu. Then you'll jet over to Komodo Island and board a short cruise through Komodo National Park. Island-hopping through the park's island chain, you'll sunbathe on the famed Pink Beach, explore coral reefs on a snorkeling excursion, and spot Komodo dragons in the wild.

Explore Indonesia: Sumatra, Java & Bali - 21 Days

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Indonesia on this three-week adventure across three of the country's most spectacular islands. Spot rare orangutans on an unforgettable multi-day jungle trek on Sumatra, then hop over to Java to visit ancient Buddhist temples and climb active volcanoes. Your adventure ends on the tropical beaches of Bali, where you'll snorkel through colorful underwater worlds and raft down the Ayung River.

Sail the Raja Ampat Archipelago - 10 Days

Escape to paradise on this 10-day sailing trip through Indonesia's Raja Ampat Archipelago. Cruise through the pristine seas of West Papua on a traditional wooden sailboat, anchoring each night at undiscovered islands and secret coves. Climb lush island peaks, relax on white-sand beaches, and snorkel through crystal clear waters as you discover some of the most diverse marine life on earth.

Discover Sulawesi: Tana Toraja, Togian Islands & Manado - 14 Days

Enjoy a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation on this two-week tour of the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. Start among the rice fields and bamboo forests of Tana Toraja, where you'll discover ancient village traditions and hike through lush countryside. Head to the island's central coast to spend two nights in the tropical paradise of the Togian Islands, then fly to the far northeast to snorkel in the underwater wonderland of Bunaken Maritime Park.

Family Trip to Indonesia: Bali & Gili Air - 14 Days

Perfect for families, this two-week Indonesian itinerary blends adventurous excursions with plenty of free time to spend at the beach. Visit temples, hike to waterfalls, discover the monkey forest in Bali, then hop on a speedboat to reach the neighboring island of Gili Air. Here the whole family can enjoy an island paradise—exploring white sand beaches, swimming in turquoise seas, and snorkeling with sea turtles.

Indonesia in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is by far one of the best times of the year to visit Indonesia. The weather is warm and beautiful with sunny skies and an almost complete lack of rain anywhere; yet the crowds thin out as kids go back to school so there are fewer tourists than July and August. The result is an idyllic destination with beautiful beaches, stunning volcanos, and reasonable crowd sizes.

Indonesia in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August marks the middle of the high season in Indonesia when the weather is hot and sunny; the skies are blue; and the tourist attractions are bustling with people. It's one of the best months of the year to plan a vacation, whether you plan to head to the white sands beaches of Bali or the volcanic peaks of Java. The only downside is that it can be crowded so plan accordingly.

Indonesia in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is a month when Indonesia is at its absolute best. The weather is dry, the ocean is warm, and the beaches are full of people surfing, snorkeling, and playing in the sun. It's the perfect time to hike one of the volcanos, explore the many temples, and wander through the bustling street markets. It's high season, and hence more crowded and expensive. Still, if you're seeking a vacation with great weather and plenty of activities, it won't disappoint.

Indonesia in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is one of the best months of the year to visit Indonesia. It's hot, sunny, and dry with blue skies overhead and idyllic conditions for activities like beach-going, volcano hiking, and exploring the many cultural sites that the region has to offer. Tourist numbers are higher this time of year but not as crowded as later in the summer, providing a great blend of good conditions and space to move around.

Indonesia in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

May is the beginning of the dry season when Indonesia transitions from a long, wet winter into summer. The weather is sunny and beautiful—with occasional scattered showers— and tourists begin arriving again. The white sand beaches along Bali's southern coast are idyllic and still fairly uncrowded, and the volcanos on Java, Lombok, and other islands are finally in the perfect condition for climbing.