Where to Go in Indonesia

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Where to Go in Indonesia

a blue umbrella sitting on top of a sandy beach

Stretching over 3,000 miles across the equator, Indonesia`s 17,000 islands form part of the Ring of Fire, an arc of volcanic and seismically active land around the Pacific Ocean. With the world`s fourth largest population including the most Muslims, Indonesia exhibits diversity comparable to Europe, home to groups such as the originally headhunting but now mainly Christian Batak of Sumatra, the uniquely Hindu Balinese, the Bugis continuing to fish and trade in their colorfully traditional vessels among the eastern islands, and the remote tribal Dani inhabiting Papua`s far-flung provinces. Yet this sprawling collection of islands has a sole currency and single national language.

Of course, by far the most gone to area is Bali where the unique culture as well as the sun, surf, shops, and inexpensive food/drink attract about 3-4 million native and international visitors annually. Similar in size and landscapes but liking differently in culture, religion, and traveler numbers is Lombok. Just off the northwest shore of Lombok, the trio of petite, lovely, and popular Gili Islands are places for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Frequently utilized solely as an entry point to explore the 34 regions across the archipelago, a brief visit to the national capital Jakarta can be daunting yet worthwhile for one or two days. Deemed more inviting than Jakarta (and also the country’s second most populous city, Surabaya) is the historic and majestic capital of Yogyakarta, just an hour`s drive from the revered Buddhist ruins at Borobudur, one of Indonesia`s premier attractions.

Requiring significant effort but certainly worthwhile is the remote yet fascinating Danau Toba, an immense crater lake containing an island the size of Singapore in the Indonesian province of North Sumatra. One of the primary means of reaching Toba is by automobile from Medan, Indonesia`s third most populous city. An incredible distance of approximately 2,200 miles east of Medan lays the oddly formed island of Sulawesi, home to the extraordinarily unique Tana Toraja region in South Sulawesi as well as the remarkably developed province of North Sulawesi.

Farther east, the Maluku islands, once known as the Spice Islands and historically fought over by European powers, offer an unseen history and charm across the country. Recent years have seen resort and golf developments on the nearby islands of Batam and Bintan dangling off Singapore`s coast, while Papua, the most remote region, retains impenetrable jungle, indigenous tribes, and unfortunately ongoing social issues.

The Best Places to Stay in Indonesia

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

Where to Travel in Indonesia for…

  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Sightseeing: Yogyakarta
    Unlike most Indonesian cities, this former royal funds boasts a rich history. The Sultan still lives in the centuries-old Kraton (castle) dominating the complex old town that’s a joy to explore on foot or by bicycle – and other streets are dotted with crumbling structures from the Dutch colonial period. Yogya (pronounced `jogja`) is a workable size and some hotels offer heritage and old-fashioned design that is basically non-existent elsewhere across the country. But what makes Yogyakarta truly unique is its proximity (only 25 miles) from the vast Buddhist ruins at Borobudur, one of the most remarkable sights anywhere in Southeast Asia
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Beaches: Bali
    Tens of thousands of foreign and local tourists arrive daily on one of the world’s most majestic islands for a singular reason – enjoying the beaches – however, the quality of beaches does fluctuate. While Kuta, Indonesia’s most famous stretch of sand, is overrun and better suited for surfing than swimming, the scenic coves at Nusa Dua are among the world’s finest. In truth, there are even more appealing and secluded beaches on remote islands like Togian (North Sulawesi) and Tanimbar (southern Maluku), but the beach areas on Bali also provide limitless places to eat, drink, shop, and stay.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Scuba Diving: Bali
    Specialists with extensive time and funding regularly flock to some of the planet’s premier diving spots in eastern Indonesia, for example Bunaken Island (North Sulawesi), Banda (Southern Maluku), and specifically Raja Ampat islands near Sorong (Papua). However decent – and absolutely far more accessible – dive sites can be found in Bali where courses, excursions, and equipment rental are readily available through many internationally-standard agencies. Reefs swarming with marine life and an occasional shipwreck attract divers to Nusa Lembongan Island, Padangbai, Amed, and Tulamben. And with equipment for hire at beachside shacks, these four places are also ideal for snorkeling in the calm waters just offshore.
  • Where to Lodge in Indonesia for Hiking and Mountain-Climbing: Lombok
    Many of the 17,000 islands across the Indonesian archipelago are dominated by mountains; in fact, some islets are little more than a village or two clinging to mountainous slopes. Guided mountain climbs using guides are possible across the country – from the remote snow-capped mountains in Papua, Indonesia’s highest peak, to more accessible slopes in Java such as Mount Merapi and Mount Semeru. Easier to arrange, and not too arduous, are treks up and around Mount Rinjani which overshadows all of Lombok Island. Treks for up to 5 days can be organized at Tetebatu or, more commonly, at Senaru – both cool, charming villages dotted with guesthouses along the mountainous ridges of Mount Rinjani.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Water Sports: Bali
    Many water-based leisure activities are accessible at numerous shorelines on the profoundly mainstream island of Bali. This is not the situation, be that as it may, along the coast between Kuta and Seminyak, where the waves are better suited for surfing, yet an unobtrusive scope can be found at Sanur and Nusa Dua. The best of all is Tanjung Benoa where hundreds of vacationers line up day by day to shout while water skiing or snatching a ropeway at a part of the expense charged in western goals. Comparative games similarly as speedboats, pedalboats, and canoes, are offered at rates intended for Indonesian vacationers at the exceptionally wonderful volcanic depression lake of Danau Bratan.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Surfing: Bali
    Among the initial foreigners to explore Bali were surfers. Tens of thousands now visit yearly to ride some of Asia`s finest waves, eased by available rentals, repairs, and tuition, along with an abundance of low-cost accommodations, eateries, and bars. Breakers along the shore of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak are suitable for beginners and dabblers, while more experienced and dedicated surfers frequently head to isolated spots such as Padang Padang and Ulu Watu along the southern peninsula. More intriguing and less crowded are Nusa Lembongan island and Medewi, a surfer enclave on the mid-west coast. Usually, the prime time for surfing in Bali is from April to October.
  • Top Destination in Indonesia for Nightlife: Bali
    A significant attraction for many visitors exploring Bali is the comprehensive and relatively low-cost nightlife. Along the most famed tourist strip of Kuta and Legian, multi-level nightclubs providing international DJs and sports bars earnestly vie with offers like ‘cocktail deals’, ‘free BBQs’, and ‘ladies drink at no cost’. Just to the north, Seminyak offers a more refined blend of live jazz, soul, and R&B in intimate settings, while farther north in trendy Canggu, the decor and prices in the lounge bars and beach clubs are comparable to Europe.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Food and Cuisine: Jakarta
    While in Indonesia`s vast capital for business or connecting flights, one could enjoy some of the nation`s finest eateries and most delicious foods. In addition to bistros in 5-star hotels with prices matching those in the US and an endless supply of familiar locally-run fast-food outlets, various restaurants serve cuisines from across the country, continent, and world. The diversity is extraordinary, such as bebek betutu (steamed duck) from Bali, coto Makassar (beef and offal soup) from Sulawesi, and padang style cooking from Sumatra, a modest buffet of Indonesian favorites made fresh each morning yet served at room temperature all day
  • Where to Reside in Indonesia for Atmosphere and Culture: Yogyakarta
    As explained earlier, Yogyakarta boasts an ancient and colonial history and culture that has virtually disappeared or perhaps never truly existed across most of Indonesia. Within the modern city center, the walled old town highlights the Kraton (palace) where the Sultan still resides, as well as numerous museums, markets, and mosques. With so many artists, musicians, and other performers calling Yogya home, the purest examples of Javanese rituals, architecture, and language can be found here. Adding to the attractions are shops selling silver handicrafts and art using the batik wax process; performances of traditional dance, music, and wayang kulit (shadow puppets); historical hotels; and old-fashioned horse-and-carts which can be chartered for city tours.
  • Prime Area in Indonesia for Temple and Mosque Visits: Lombok
    By law, every Indonesian must designate themselves as an adherent of one of six official faiths on their identity document. As well as containing the world`s largest Muslim population, Indonesia has millions of Christians centered around Danau Toba lake (North Sumatra), Balinese who follow a unique form of Hinduism, and others practicing tribal customs in remote regions of Sulawesi, Kalimantan, and Papua. Lombok Island exhibits a fascinating blend of Hindus who predominantly inhabit the western coast close to Bali and indigenous Sasak people who are overwhelmingly Muslim. Numerous Sasaks, however, also combine Islam with ancient animist traditions, particularly those who belong to the Islamic sect, Wetu Telu.
  • Premier Location in Indonesia to Experience History: Maluku
    Nowhere else in Indonesia offers such captivating history as this remote cluster of islands in eastern Indonesia. The former Spice Islands were ruled by numerous warring kingdoms and frequented by Chinese, Indian, and Arab merchants. Later, during the 16th and 17th centuries, islands like Ternate and the Bandas were ransacked and disputed over by the British, Dutch, and Portuguese for something more precious than gold: nutmeg, cloves, along with other herbs. Therefore, the islands of Maluku are dotted with remnants of pre-colonial palaces; colonial-era mansions and forts, some still ‘armed’ with rusting cannons; and, more recently, bunkers, caves, as well as shipwrecks from WWII.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Walking and Cycling: Bintan Island
    With so many overcrowded cities, congested roads, and steep mountains, cycling or simply walking is not always pleasant in most areas of Indonesia. Spared the ugly industrialization of nearby Batam Island, the development of Bintan has been more thoughtful, so tourists – mostly from Singapore less than an hour by boat – can walk or cycle along paths to pristine beaches, the historic town of Tanjung Pinang, and villages of ‘sea gypsies’. Ask the hotel regarding renting a bike.
  • Best area in Indonesia for shopping: Jakarta

    • Not surprisingly, the greatest choice of places to spend Indonesian currency is within the largest city. Across the inconceivably vast Greater Jakarta metropolis, bountiful pasars offer all sorts of fresh produce and bustling multi-level markets sell arts, clothing, and specialty products like electronics, for example Tanah Abang Market and the smaller and more comfortable Pasar Baru (`New Market`). These days, most locals prefer to shop (or, at least, window-shop) at massive shopping complexes that rival Europe for size, quality, and selection, such as Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia. Both are connected underground within the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’ sector of the city center.

  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Serenity: Maluku
    Far from overpopulated Java and too-touristy Bali are the isolated islands of Maluku in eastern Indonesia. The likable provincial capital, Ambon, is (like all Indonesian cities) clogged with traffic, but most other islands across the former Spice Islands are pleasant. Traditional villages, untouched beaches, and historical remnants are in abundance along remote islands such as Seram, Buru, and Morotai, but serenity is also easy to find in more populated and accessible islands like Ternate, Halmahera, and the Bandas.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Families: Bali
    For families traveling to Bali with children, finding suitable lodging is important. Numerous family-friendly resorts are situated in Legian, just north of the busy area of Kuta, and in Nusa Dua, a gated community with traffic-free streets, lovely beaches, and large gardens. Most resorts in Nusa Dua feature children`s pools (often with water slides) and kids` clubs offering engaging activities throughout the day, as well as special children`s menus and childcare services. Next to Nusa Dua (but less expensive), Tanjung Benoa may appeal more to teenagers because of its wide range of water sports options.
  • Where to Lodge in Indonesia for Value: Danau Toba Lake (North Sumatra)
    Generally, all Indonesian cities tend to be expensive, especially Jakarta, while prices are also usually high in places where free-spending sightseers frequently visit, such as Bali. Transportation costs to remote islands and provinces add further to the prices of many commodities and services. A lovely area to visit and stay awhile, but not too isolated or overcrowded with tourists, is Danau Toba, a massive caldera lake in North Sumatra. Most lodgings take the form of cheap but comfortable guesthouses with simple cafeterias.
  • Top Destination in Indonesia for Festivals: Bali
    The distinctive form of Hinduism devoutly followed by nearly every Balinese is regularly commemorated. Each of the hundreds of temples across Bali holds ceremonies, often during the full moon, and about twice yearly, the festivals of Galungan and, 10 days later, Kuningan celebrate the victory of good over evil with decorated streets, feasts of roasted pigs, and boys carrying mock ‘lion-dogs’. Especially extraordinary is the Balinese New Year called Nyepi when the entire island virtually shuts down for 24 hours. Hotels (and usually their indoor restaurants) remain open, but stern police ensure that all shops, cafés, and bars are closed and every beach and road is vacant. Even the airport closes. This may seem inconvenient but the days before and after Nyepi are fabulous fun for locals and visitors.
  • Where to Stay in Indonesia for Transport: Jakarta
    Unlike some Asian countries, Indonesia did not inherit a useful railway system from colonial rulers (perhaps deterred by the mountainous terrain), and not one city features adequate public transportation. Recently, a long-overdue light rail system has spread across limited sections of Jakarta but is mostly disregarded by car-loving locals and ineffective compared to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Bangkok. To avoid the hopelessly overcrowded bus services, use an ojek (ride on the back of a motorbike) or air-conditioned, metered taxis. And, of course, Jakarta offers the widest range of regional flights and inter-island ferries across this colossal country.
  • Ideal Place in Indonesia for First-Time Visitors: Bali
    While the bustling crowds, noise, activity, and merchants along the busy tourist avenue on Bali can seem overwhelming even to experienced travelers at times, remaining on the island is still the best choice for visitors to Indonesia who are there for their first trip because there are many pleasant places to lodge like Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Padangbai; transportation is made convenient through comfortable shuttle buses for tourists not found elsewhere in the country and air conditioned taxis using meters only in the south; Western cuisine including fast food is familiar; and the selection of tourist facilities such as flights, tours, accommodations, and currency exchange is exceptional.
  • Most Romantically set location in Indonesia: Bali

    • Most resorts in the gated and spacious complex of Nusa Dua on Bali offer honeymoon suites and packaged deals for newlyweds, but the pool may also be inundated with boisterous families. Significantly more serene and intimate is Jimbaran, where hotels don’t really cater to children, and parts of the sandy and often-empty bay are ideal for strolling. A highlight of any honeymoon or romantic getaway to Jimbaran will be a candlelit dinner on the sand at sunset, with fresh seafood, dazzling fireworks, and wandering musicians adding to a memorable night out.

  • Safest Region in Indonesia: Gili Islands

    • Many potential dangers while touring Indonesia are self-inflicted, for example overindulging in alcohol or carelessly riding motorcycles, while physical and sexual assaults sometimes occur in Bali, though they are remarkably rare. Furthermore, all visitors to Indonesia should be aware of probable accidents while traveling on buses and in taxis or simply crossing roadways. While Gili Trawangan has the reputation of the ‘Party Island’, the other two Gili Islands are more peaceful and further from hard-partying tourists. Most significantly, motor vehicles are banned on all three Gili Islands, so the only possible accident is falling from a bicycle on a sandy path.

  • Most Dangerous Area in Indonesia: Jakarta
    As is often the case, the larger the city the more chance of getting into trouble – whether from rare physical assaults to more common vehicle accidents in one of the world’s worst cities for traffic, exacerbated by poor roads and, often, reckless driving. Constantly rated as one of the least safe cities in Asia, petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing are always possible at Jakarta’s many crowded markets and transport terminals. Also avoid areas like Blok M where excessive drinking, drugs, and prostitution are surprisingly common, and be wary of occasional protests that can turn violent.

The 11 Best Regions in Indonesia for Tourists

a sandy beach with palm trees and palm trees

1. Bali

With rice terraces flowing down volcanic slopes, flaming sunsets dripping over powdery white sands, and a culture like none else on Earth, Bali has a uniqueness. Some visitors relish the surfing, shopping, and nightclubs, while others follow spiritual pursuits and value the religious ceremonies. Additional sights involve inexpensive aquatic sports and scuba diving and the mountainous landscapes and centuries old temples begging exploration. Many – such as families – stay along the 6 mile stretch of beach divided into Tuban/Kuta/Legian/Seminyak, while others opt for Sanur (relaxed and spacious), Nusa Dua (resorts facing lovely beaches), Tanjung Benoa (aquatic sports core), and Ubud (Bali’s spiritual heartland). However, it’s still possible to stay elsewhere and escape the traveler crowds.

2. Lombok (except the Gili Islands)

While the rice fields, volcanoes, and beaches found on Bali are similar, Lombok Island is significantly different in some key ways: the local culture and indigenous language are unique to the area; the majority of residents practice Islam (though they remain every bit as welcoming and friendly to outsiders); and far fewer tourists visit due to a lack of direct international flights. Lombok has plenty to offer visitors, such as museums and royal palaces in the agreeable capital city of Mataram, picture-perfect tropical coastlines at locations like Senggigi and Kuta, accessible mountain climbing opportunities on the ever-present volcano known as Gunung Rinjani, and gorgeous islets like the Gili Islands (see below). In August 2018, a powerful earthquake hit Lombok and the Gili Islands, claiming over 500 lives and rendering many thousands homeless. By late 2019, much of the affected tourist regions had recovered, with little evidence left of the past tragedy and no additional seismic activity. With far fewer tourists nowadays, Lombok remains excellent value compared to the overpriced, overdeveloped, and overcrowded conditions found on Bali.

3. Gili Islands

Just off the northwest coast of Lombok island (see above) and competing with parts of Bali for visitor volumes are 3 minuscule islands with turquoise waters and white sands collectively known as the Gili Islands (although gili means ‘small island’ in the indigenous Sasak language). Each is less than a mile apart, delightfully unique, devoid of vehicles, and small enough to circle on foot. The most popular, Gili Trawangan is justifiably viewed as the ‘Party Island’. The closest to the mainland of Lombok, Gili Air offers a more authentic village vibe, while on the smallest, Gili Meno, there is little to do but snorkel and relax. Most lodgings are simple yet comfortable guesthouses, although an increasing number of cozy resorts are available which are certainly not as expansive and lavish as those on Bali.

4. Jakarta

Most visitors to the immense capital arrive for business purposes or layovers en route to other areas of Indonesia, but its monuments, markets, and museums combined with the fantastic food options are worthy of allocating a day or two for sightseeing. With alarming disparities between opulence and poverty, the city lacks a defined center, compounding difficulties for travelers, though the long-overdue light rail has facilitated touring the modest collection of attractions more easily. Centered on one of Asia`s most chaotic circles, the so-called `Golden Triangle` likely constitutes the nearest thing to a `downtown` district approximately 20 miles by taxi from the airport.

5. Yogyakarta

The most attractive city on the overpopulated island of Java offers considerably more than Jakarta: a manageable size, an artistic and cultural vibe gradually fading elsewhere across Indonesia, and ancient structures from a royal history still maintained with a Sultan living in a palace. Yogya (pronounced ‘jogja’) is also the entrance to the 1,200-year-old Buddhist ruins at Borobudur, one of the most remarkable sights in Southeast Asia. Some hotels are likably antiquated and many are planned and priced for budget travelers and Indonesian visitors.

6. North Sumatra

Stretching along the west coast of Malaysia, Sumatra is approximately 4 times larger than Java and home to around 25% of the population. Cities in Sumatra are densely populated and traffic-congested, especially the provincial capital Medan, the country’s third-largest city, while in the jungles and mountains a few orangutans survive despite rampant industrialization and slash-and-burn agricultural practices. With a wide variety of hotels, Medan is the obvious entry point to Sumatra’s prime destination: Danau Toba Lake within a collapsed volcano. In the middle of the largest lake in Southeast Asia, Pulau Samosir Island is remarkably the size of Singapore. Most hotels in the Lake Toba region are located at Prapat, where boats from the mainland depart for the island, and in Tuk Tuk, just across the water on Samosir. And all accommodations provide terrific value.

7. South Sulawesi

The oddly-formed island of Sulawesi in eastern Indonesia has five regions but for tourism purposes, it’s neatly divided into the southern and northern areas (see below). Makassar (formerly known as Ujung Pandang), the capital city and key port, serves as an entry point by air and sea to other locations farther east like Maluku and Papua. Stretching along an extended coastline, Makassar offers more ancient sights and cultural attractions than the typical Indonesian city, while the more adventurous can explore the beaches, islands, and mountains of the southeastern peninsula. Most visitors see this region of Sulawesi, however, to get transportation by bus or, preferably, plane to Tana Toraja. Rugged and rarely developed, this mountainous area is home to the remarkable Toraja people and their traditional funeral rites, homes, and ceremonies. Most tourists stay in the unattractive town of Rantepao.

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    In addition to a helicopter excursion, you can explore the West Rim’s hiking paths and scenic overlooks. At Eagle Point, you will see the authentic Native American community of the Hualapai tribe. Meanwhile, Guano Point offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the park. You also may enjoy the Skywalk, a glass bridge suspended over the edge of the West Rim.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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