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Indonesia
Indonesia is a tropical paradise of vibrant islands, stunning beaches, and rich traditions. Discover Bali’s beauty, Komodo’s dragons, and the lush landscapes of Java for unforgettable Southeast Asian adventures.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Did you know?
More Than 17,000 Islands – Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, with over 17,000 islands scattered across Southeast Asia.
Overview
Months
April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
Vacation type
Beach, Family, Couple, Party, Rainforest
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, 0-50€, <100€
Temperature
Over 30°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Safe, Medium
Continent
Asia
Currency
Indonesian rupiah
Languages
Indonesian
Currency Converter
When to visit
Indonesia has many different islands. For the most accurate information, each region has its own dedicated page.
Islands
The recommended period to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the country's islands, beaches, and cultural sites.
- May to September: Offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and little to no rain, perfect for activities like beach outings, diving, hiking, and sightseeing in places like Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and the many other islands.
- October to April: This period is the wet season, characterized by higher humidity and frequent rain showers. While the rain can be heavy, it usually occurs in short bursts, leaving much of the day dry. This season can still be a good time to visit if you don't mind the occasional downpour, and it often means fewer tourists and lower prices.
Overall, the dry season from May to September is the best time to visit Indonesia for optimal weather conditions, but the wet season still offers opportunities for travel with its lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
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Plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Climate Data
Peak Season (May to September)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 7 to 9 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rare, with mostly dry conditions.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour.
Intensity: Light to moderate.
Duration: Short-lived showers.
Off-Peak Season (October to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 5 to 7 hours.
Rain Frequency: Frequent, especially during the wet season.
Rainy Hours per Day: Around 3 to 4 hours.
Intensity: Heavy, often accompanied by thunderstorms.
Duration: Rain can last several hours, typically in the afternoons.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: Global Historical Climatology Network
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-September (Dry Season)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (street food, local restaurants).
Activities: $5-15/day (beach, nature walks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-40/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $10-30/day (guided tours, adventure activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury resorts, villas).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Rainy Season)
Budget Vacation ($20-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-20/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $5-10/day (local meals).
Activities: $5-10/day (local sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range accommodations).
Food: $10-20/day (restaurants, local eateries).
Activities: $10-20/day (nature tours, hiking).
Transportation: $10-15/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($120+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $15+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (exclusive activities, private tours).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
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You can find accomendations that fit your trip and budget on Booking.com, Vrbo and Hotels.com
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Jakarta
- The capital and largest city, known for its bustling economy, diverse culture, and landmarks like the National Monument (Monas) and the Istiqlal Mosque.
2. Bali (Denpasar)
- While Bali is an island, Denpasar is the provincial capital. It offers vibrant local markets, cultural experiences, and access to popular destinations like Ubud and Kuta.
3. Yogyakarta
- Known for its rich cultural heritage, historic temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, and vibrant arts scene. It's often referred to as the cultural heart of Java.
4. Surabaya
- The second-largest city in Indonesia, known for its historical sites, bustling port, and vibrant trade. It also offers access to nearby Mount Bromo.
5. Bandung
- Famous for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and vibrant food scene. It’s a popular weekend getaway from Jakarta and is known for its colonial architecture and natural attractions.
6. Medan
- Located in North Sumatra, it’s a gateway to exploring Lake Toba and other natural attractions in the region. The city offers a mix of cultures and cuisine.
7. Makassar
- The largest city in Sulawesi, known for its port, diverse culture, and as a starting point for exploring the natural beauty of Sulawesi.
Jakarta
Did you know?
Home of Orangutans – Indonesia is one of the few places on Earth where you can still see wild orangutans in their natural habitats, especially on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra.
Islands
- Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and tourist attractions like Ubud, Kuta, and the sacred temples of Tanah Lot and Uluwatu.
2. Komodo Island
- Famous for its Komodo dragons, this island offers unique wildlife experiences and beautiful landscapes. It’s part of Komodo National Park, which also includes nearby islands like Rinca and Padar.
3. Lombok
- Known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and Mount Rinjani, Lombok is a less touristy alternative to Bali, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and surfing.
4. Sumatra
- Home to diverse wildlife and natural beauty, including Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, and the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park, where you can see orangutans.
5. Sulawesi
- Known for its unique cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, including the beautiful beaches of Bunaken and the distinctive Toraja culture in the highlands.
6. Gili Islands
- A group of three small islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) near Lombok, famous for their crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling and diving, and laid-back atmosphere.
7. Nusa Penida
- Located southeast of Bali, Nusa Penida is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, stunning beaches like Keling King Beach, and crystal-clear waters ideal for diving and snorkeling.
8. Raja Ampat Islands
- Discover the biodiversity of these remote islands in West Papua, renowned for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diving opportunities.
9. Misool
- A remote, pristine island in the Raja Ampat archipelago. It is famous for its towering limestone karst mazes, ancient rock art, and incredibly diverse, world-class coral reefs.
10. Banggai Islands
- A remote and beautiful archipelago in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is famous for its endemic Banggai cardinalfish, pristine coral reefs, and crystal-clear turquoise lakes.
11. Belitung Island
- A stunning island located off the eastern coast of Sumatra. It is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches framed by giant, smooth granite boulders, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and idyllic offshore islets.
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Find the perfect place to stay in any of these top cities and islands with Booking.com, Hotels.com and Vrbo – offering entire homes and apartments for a comfortable and private experience.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park
- Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of this volcanic park in East Java, including the active Mount Bromo and the highest peak, Mount Semeru.
2. Mount Rinjani
- Trek through this active volcano on Lombok Island, featuring a stunning crater lake and challenging hiking trails.
3. Ujung Kulon National Park
- Explore this remote park on Java, known for its diverse wildlife, including the critically endangered Javan rhino, and its pristine natural environment.
4. Bromo Volcano
- An active volcano in East Java. It is famous for its stunning sunrise views, massive caldera setting, and constantly smoking crater.
5. Komodo National Park
- A spectacular national park spanning several rugged volcanic islands. It is famous for its giant native Komodo dragons, striking pink sand beaches, and world-class coral reefs.
6. Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls
- A massive, multi-tiered waterfall in East Java. It is famous for its spectacular semi-circular curtain of cascading water, deep lush jungle gorge, and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Semeru.
7. Paisu Pok
- A stunningly clear lake in the Banggai Islands. It is famous for its mesmerizing, glass-like turquoise waters and tranquil forest setting.
8. Kelimutu
- A volcano on the island of Flores. It is famous for its three striking crater lakes that mysteriously and independently change colors.
9. Nipah Beach
- A scenic, sweeping bay in Lombok. It is famous for its calm turquoise waters, palm-fringed white sand, and popular beachfront stalls serving freshly grilled seafood.
10. Kali Biru
- A pristine jungle river in Raja Ampat. It is famous for its incredibly vibrant, crystal-clear blue waters and its secluded, lush rainforest setting.
11. Kelingking Beach
- A spectacular coastal cliff and beach on Nusa Penida. It is famous for its iconic T-Rex shaped rock formation, steep descent, and breathtaking ocean views.
12. Long Beach (Pantai Pasir Panjang)
- A remote, hidden white sand beach in the Banggai Islands. It is famous for its pristine stretch of soft white sand, striking limestone hill surroundings, and crystal-clear waters accessible only by boat.
13. Mangku Sakti
- A spectacular waterfall in East Lombok, nestled on the slopes of Mount Rinjani. It is famous for its unique milky, turquoise, sulfur-infused volcanic waters flowing through dramatic, intricately carved rock gorges.
14. Gili Trawangan
- The largest and liveliest of the Gili Islands. It is famous for its white sand beaches, the complete absence of motorized vehicles, great snorkeling spots with sea turtles, and a vibrant nightlife.
15. Tanjung Tinggi Beach
- A stunning white-sand beach on Belitung Island. It is famous for its massive, smooth granite boulders scattered along the shore and calm turquoise waters.
16. Mount Ijen
- An active volcano complex in East Java. It is famous for its mesmerizing blue flames at night, a stunningly acidic turquoise crater lake, and the traditional sulfur miners who work inside the crater.
Cultural Attractions
1. Borobudur Temple
- The world's largest Buddhist temple, built in the 9th century in Central Java, featuring a stunning mandala design with nine stacked platforms and over 500 Buddha statues.
2. Prambanan Temple
- A magnificent 9th-century Hindu temple compound dedicated to Shiva, known for its towering, intricately carved stone shrines that depict the Ramayana epic.
3. Tana Toraja
A highland region in South Sulawesi renowned for its deeply rooted indigenous culture, spectacular funeral rituals, cliff-side burial caves, and traditional boat-shaped tongkonan houses.
4. Wae Rebo Village
- An isolated and highly traditional Manggarai village located deep in the mountains of Flores, famous for its preserved community lifestyle and unique, cone-shaped Mbaru Niang houses.
5. Gunung Padang
- A massive, ancient megalithic site in West Java consisting of volcanic stone terraces, believed by some researchers to be one of the oldest structural complexes in Southeast Asia.
6. Pura Besakih
- Known as the "Mother Temple" of Bali, this is the largest and holiest Hindu temple complex on the island, consisting of 23 separate but related temples built on the slopes of Mount Agung.
7. Bali’s Temples
- Experience Bali’s spiritual heritage through its numerous temples, including the iconic Tanah Lot, Besakih, and the water temple Tirta Empul.
8. Toraja Land
- Visit the highlands of Sulawesi to witness the unique Torajan culture, known for its elaborate funeral ceremonies, traditional houses, and intricate wood carvings.
9. Malini Uluwatu
- A cliff-edge seafood restaurant on the Bukit Peninsula. It is famous for its breathtaking, dramatic ocean views, spectacular sunsets, and a relaxed, old-school coastal vibe.
11. Mbuang Mbuang
- A remote village in the Banggai Islands. It is famous for its rare stingless jellyfish lake, striking limestone karst formations, and peaceful, untouched environment.
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The best way to explore major cities and must-see attractions is by booking guided tours.* They offer convenience, local insights, and often save time when visiting popular sights.
Bali’s Temples
Unique Accomondations/Foodspots
Accommodations
Amanjiwo
Location: Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java
A breathtaking architectural masterpiece designed by Ed Tuttle, nestled in the lush Menoreh Hills with direct, awe-inspiring views of the ancient Buddhist sanctuary of Borobudur, featuring majestic limestone suites and tranquil reflection pools.
Restaurants/Bars
Stupa at Amanjiwo
Location: Amanjiwo, Borobudur, Central Java
An open-air, candlelit fine-dining pavilion surrounded by emerald rice paddies, celebrated for its exquisite interpretations of traditional Javanese royal court cuisine and rare regional spice combinations.
Tours to do
1. Bali Volcano Sunrise & Lava Field Hike
- A guided, pre-dawn trek to the summit of Mount Batur. An expert mountain guide leads you through volcanic trails to witness the sunrise above the clouds, followed by a descent through active lava fields and a visit to a local geothermal hot spring.
Best Time: April to October
Average Cost: $40–$70 per person
2. Sumatra Orangutan Conservation Trek
- A multi-day guided expedition into the Gunung Leuser National Park in Bukit Lawang. You hike through dense rainforest with experienced trackers to observe semi-wild orangutans, followed by a traditional jungle rafting trip back down the river.
Best Time: May to September
Average Cost: $150–$300 per person (depending on duration)
3. Yogyakarta Traditional Arts & Crafts Workshop Tour
- A deep-dive cultural tour where you spend the day in village studios. Guided by local artisans, you participate in hands-on sessions for Batik (wax-resist dyeing) and Gamelan music, moving away from tourist shops into authentic maker spaces.
Best Time: Year-round
Average Cost: $30–$50 per person
4. Komodo National Park Marine Expedition
- A private, guided boat tour that ventures beyond the main viewpoints. You are accompanied by a marine biologist to snorkel in remote reefs with high biodiversity, followed by a guided trekking tour on Rinca or Komodo Island to observe Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
Best Time: April to December
Average Cost: $200–$400 per person
5. Toraja Highlands Ancestral Culture Tour
- A unique, multi-day guided journey into the highlands of Sulawesi. You will stay with local families, attend guided visits to ancient cliff-side grave sites, and observe the intricate Tongkonan (traditional house) architecture and burial rituals unique to the Torajan people.
Best Time: June to August
Average Cost: $300–$500 per person
Komodo
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Given Indonesia's extensive geography, domestic flights are a common and efficient way to travel between islands and major cities. Airlines like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and AirAsia offer flights connecting Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, and other key destinations.
2. Public Buses
- Public buses operate in cities and towns throughout Indonesia. In major cities like Jakarta and Surabaya, there are city buses and intercity services. For longer distances, services like PO. Haryanto and PO. Sinar Jaya provide intercity and inter-island bus routes.
3. Metro and Light Rail
- Jakarta has a growing metro system called the Jakarta MRT, with future expansions planned. The city also has a light rail transit system known as LRT Jakarta. Other cities, like Surabaya, have limited light rail services.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are widely available in cities, and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are popular in major urban areas, offering rides, food delivery, and other services.
5. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring different regions, especially in popular tourist areas like Bali or Yogyakarta. Driving is on the left side of the road. Major car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Bali Car Rental operate in key locations. Hiring a driver is common due to local driving conditions.
6. Motorcycles and Scooters
- Renting a motorcycle or scooter is a popular way to get around, particularly in places like Bali and Ubud. Services like Gojek and Grab also offer motorcycle taxis for quick and convenient travel.
7. Boats and Ferries
- With many islands to explore, boats and ferries are essential for inter-island travel. Services connect popular islands like Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands. Companies like Bali Hai Cruises and BlueWater Express offer these services.
8. Local Buses
- In smaller towns and rural areas, local buses and minibuses provide essential connectivity. These can range from modern buses to more traditional, less comfortable options.
9. Angkots (Public Minivans)
- In many Indonesian cities, angkots (public minivans) serve as a common form of transportation, operating on fixed routes and offering a budget-friendly option for local travel.
10. Bajaj
- In some cities, particularly Jakarta, bajaj (three-wheeled vehicles) offer short-distance travel and can navigate through traffic more easily than cars.
For traveling around Indonesia, domestic flights, boats, and ferries are essential for moving between islands and regions. Public buses, metros, and ride-hailing apps are practical for city travel, while car rentals, motorcycles, and scooters provide flexibility for exploring specific areas.
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You can find great car rental deals for your vacation on Expedia *
Did you know?
Active Volcanoes – Indonesia has more active volcanoes than any other country in the world, with around 130 active volcanoes, including the famous Mount Merapi.
What to eat
1. Nasi Goreng
- Fried rice cooked with soy sauce, vegetables, and often topped with fried egg and chicken or shrimp.
2. Satay
- Grilled skewers of marinated meat (often chicken or beef) served with peanut sauce, a popular street food.
3. Rendang
- A spicy beef stew slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.
4. Gado-Gado
- A salad made with boiled vegetables, tofu, and eggs, topped with a peanut sauce.
5. Bakso
- Meatballs made from beef or chicken, often served in a savory broth with noodles and vegetables.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
* Please note: All prices are rough estimates for orientation purposes only and may vary by region.
Main Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) - Bali, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) - Jakarta
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €500 to €1,000.
- Cheapest Months: April to June and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December to February (holiday season).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to April and October to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $200 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
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You can find the best flight deals with Skyscanner or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, need a visa to enter Indonesia.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. This option is not extendable.
3. Visa on Arrival
- Travelers from eligible countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival for 30 days, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.
4. Visa Application
- For longer stays or specific purposes (e.g., work or study), travelers must apply for a regular visa at an Indonesian embassy or consulate before traveling.
5. Processing Time
- Visa on Arrival is issued upon arrival; regular visa processing can take from a few days to several weeks.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 30 days; Visa on Arrival holders can stay for a total of 60 days (30 days plus 30-day extension).
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but Yellow Fever vaccination is necessary if arriving from a Yellow Fever risk country. Travel insurance is recommended.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Telkomsel and XL Axiata. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Indonesia, people drive on the left side of the road.
Souveniers
1. Batik Fabric & Clothing
- Batik is a traditional Indonesian textile, hand-dyed with wax-resistant patterns, available as clothing, scarves, or wall hangings.
2. Luwak Coffee (Kopi Luwak)
- One of the world’s rarest and most expensive coffees, made using beans eaten and fermented by civet cats before being collected and roasted.
3. Hand-Carved Wooden Masks
- Balinese and Javanese wooden masks are stunning works of art, often featuring mythological or spiritual themes.
Batik
Location
Reviews
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