Indonesia

From the traveltalk.dk family – started in Denmark in 2018

Read in: Dansk (original)

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, and with more than 17,000 islands it offers everything from tropical beaches and rainforests to active volcanoes, historic temples and living cultures. Each island has its own identity, so the country can be explored again and again.

This article takes you through the highlights, from Bali’s rice terraces to Java’s ancient temples and Flores’ volcanoes and Komodo dragons. It also explains why Indonesia suits both first-time travellers and seasoned Asia travellers, and why it is worth looking beyond Bali.

Travel to Indonesia – island paradise, culture and tropical adventure

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago and one of Asia’s most diverse travel destinations. With more than 17,000 islands, the country offers everything from tropical beaches and lush rainforests to active volcanoes, historic temples and living cultures. Indonesia is a destination that can be experienced again and again – every island has its own identity. For many, Bali is the gateway to Indonesia, but the country holds far more than one island. Java, Sumatra, Lombok, Flores and Sulawesi offer unique experiences where nature, culture and adventure go hand in hand. Indonesia is ideal for both first-time travellers and seasoned Asia travellers.

Why travel to Indonesia?

Indonesia is a country where experiences often feel bigger, wilder and more authentic than in many other parts of Asia. The combination of scenic surroundings, deep traditions and a relaxed pace makes the country ideal for both relaxation and active travel.

Culture, religion & traditions

Indonesia is home to hundreds of ethnic groups and cultural traditions. On Bali, Hindu rituals shape everyday life, while Java is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most important Buddhist and Hindu temples, including Borobudur and Prambanan. Religion, ceremonies and local culture are a natural part of the journey. Indonesian food is a new and major chapter in Asian cuisine

Beaches, islands & tropical nature

Indonesia offers some of Asia’s most beautiful beaches and most varied island landscapes. From Bali’s rice terraces and surf beaches to Lombok’s mountains, Flores’ coastlines and Sumatra’s rainforests, the nature is both lush and dramatic. Indonesia’s many islands, more than 18,000 in total

Volcanoes & adventure

The country lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is home to over 100 active volcanoes. Treks up Mount Bromo, Mount Rinjani and Mount Ijen are among the most spectacular natural experiences in the region. 15 volcanoes from around the world

Excellent value and a relaxed atmosphere

Indonesia generally offers excellent value for money. Accommodation, food and transport are affordable, and many destinations have a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Regions of Indonesia

Bali

The island is known for its beaches, temples, yoga, wellness and rice terraces. Perfect for both relaxation and experiences.

Java

Indonesia’s cultural and political centre, with big cities, temples and historic sites.

Lombok & the Gili Islands

A quieter alternative to Bali, with beaches, hiking and a laid-back island life.

Sumatra

Wild nature, rainforests, orangutans and less touristy areas.

Flores & Komodo

Raw and spectacular, with volcanoes, diving and Komodo dragons.

Travel themes in Indonesia

Beach holidays & island hopping

Ideal for relaxation, snorkelling, diving and island life.

Cultural travel

Temples, rituals and local traditions across the islands.

Nature & adventure

Volcano treks, jungle trips and national parks.

Wellness & retreats

Yoga, spas and retreats – especially on Bali.

Diving & snorkelling

Indonesia is among the world’s best destinations for underwater experiences.

Selected articles about Indonesia

• Bali – more than just beaches
• Java – temples and culture
• Lombok – a quieter island life
• Bintan Island Indonesia, if you like Bali
• A golf trip to Bali is a dream golfing holiday
• Travel to Bali: 10 of the most beautiful places worth visiting on Bali.

Ready for Indonesia?

Indonesia is a destination that offers tranquillity, adventure and cultural immersion alike. Whether you are looking for beaches, nature or spiritual experiences, you will find them here. Explore our guides and articles about Indonesia and plan your next trip to the island nation.

📄Quick overview

• Best time to travel: May–October (dry season)
• Language: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Currency: Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
• Transport: Domestic flights between islands • Boat and car locally
• Price level: Low–mid
• Ideal for: Beach holidays, road trips, nature, culture, diving, wellness

Top areas: Bali • Java • Lombok • Sumatra • Flores • Komodo

Visit traveltalk.travel to see more articles about Indonesia

💡Traveltalk Tip

Combine at least two islands on the same trip – for example Bali + Lombok or Java + Flores – for greater variety. Insider tip Travel beyond Bali if you want more tranquillity and authenticity. Lombok, Flores and Sumatra are obvious alternatives. Hidden gems

• Nusa Penida
• Tana Toraja
• Raja Ampat

Price examples: Local dinner: approx. 20–50 kr. Scooter rental per day: approx. 40–70 kr.

More articles about Indonesia

Practical information about Indonesia

Travel advice

Always check the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ travel advice before departure. Be alert to fraud.

Transport

Flights are often necessary between the islands. Domestic flights are widespread and relatively cheap.

Climate & season

Dry season: May–October Wet season: November–April (may vary by region)

Visas & health

Visa rules vary. Vaccinations are recommended when travelling to Indonesia.

Transport between the islands

Indonesia consists of thousands of islands, and the best way to get between them depends on the distance and what you want to experience along the way. Domestic flights are the fastest choice between large islands, but flights can be cancelled or delayed, so do not plan too tightly, especially not on the same day as an important connection.

Ferries and fast boats connect many neighbouring islands, including between Bali and Lombok or out to the Gili Islands. Passenger boats can be crowded, and the weather affects sailings, especially in the rainy season. Local buses and minibuses are cheap and flexible, but journey times are often longer than the map suggests. Taxis are available everywhere, but agree on the price before you get in, or use an approved app or a regular driver.

Be alert to scams. Some ticket sellers offer trips that do not exist at all, or charge more once passengers are on board. Buy tickets from a recognised office or directly from the operator, and keep the confirmation. For local transport a scooter may seem an obvious choice, but read the section on safety before you rent one.

How to get there

Most trips to Indonesia from Europe go via a major hub in Asia or the Middle East. The stopover is often in Singapore, Doha, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok, and the total travel time is typically around 20 hours or a little more once you allow for waiting time. Direct flights exist, but there are fewer of them, and routes change from season to season.

The main gateway to the country is usually Jakarta, the capital’s international airport on Java. For Bali, most travellers fly to Denpasar, which lies close to the southern part of the island. Several other airports also handle international flights, including Yogyakarta on Java, Lombok, Labuan Bajo for Flores and Komodo, and Medan on Sumatra. Choose the airport closest to the island where you plan to start, so you avoid extra domestic flights.

Always check which airports your connections use, and whether you need to switch between international and domestic terminals. This can mean longer walking distances and more waiting time than you first expect.

Best time to travel by region

Indonesia lies close to the equator, and the temperature barely changes throughout the year. Rainfall determines when it is best to travel, and it does not fall evenly across the country.

On Bali, Java and most of Sumatra the rainy season typically runs from November to April. This does not mean it rains all day, every day. Usually a heavy, short-lived downpour arrives in the afternoon, and the rest of the day can be fine. If you travel in early spring or late autumn, you avoid the worst periods of flooding and slippery paths.

Volcano treks are best in the dry season, when the trails are dry and the views are not hidden by cloud. Mount Bromo on Java and Mount Rinjani on Lombok are often visited at night and early in the morning, and clear weather is an advantage here. The same applies at Mount Ijen, where mist can lie thick during the rainy season.

Diving and snorkelling are generally best in the dry period, when the sea is calm and visibility is greatest. In Raja Ampat and around Komodo, however, the wind can change quickly, so it is a good idea to ask a local dive centre for advice on current conditions.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Indonesia ranges from simple guesthouses with shared bathrooms to large resorts with their own beach and spa. Where you choose to stay should depend on what your trip is about more than the price does.

On Bali, Ubud is a good choice if you are after culture, yoga and green surroundings. Seminyak and Canggu suit those who want cafés, surf beaches and a lively nightlife. Nusa Dua and the area around it have several large resorts and are more secluded. On Lombok and the Gili Islands there is a wide range of small bungalows and beachfront hotels, and on the smaller Gili Islands there are almost no cars, so the pace is relaxed.

On Java, Yogyakarta offers cheap and cosy guesthouses close to the temples, while the city of Jakarta is busy and best suited to business travellers or a short stay. In Labuan Bajo on Flores you will find both small hotels and more exclusive places offering boat trips. It is also worth checking what facilities a place actually has, as electricity, hot water and internet connections can vary more than you might expect.

Budget and price levels

Indonesia is one of those destinations where a travel budget stretches a long way, but price levels vary a great deal from island to island, and from tourist area to village. The prices below are indicative and may change, so treat them as a guide for planning.

A local meal at a simple warung typically costs around 20 to 50 kroner. In restaurants geared towards tourists, prices can be two to three times higher. A single room in a guesthouse or bungalow often costs between 150 and 400 kroner per night, while more comfortable hotels in popular areas cost considerably more. Large all-inclusive resorts belong to an entirely different price bracket.

Local transport is cheap. A scooter can be hired for around 40 to 70 kroner a day, and a taxi ride around town often costs anywhere from a few to a few hundred kroner, depending on distance and how well you bargain. Domestic flights can vary considerably in price depending on the season and when you book. Activities such as volcano treks, diving and boat trips are often the biggest expense, so plan them separately and check what is included before you pay.

Safety and health

The biggest risk for tourists in Indonesia is often traffic, rather than crime or illness. Scooter accidents are common, particularly for travellers with no experience of riding in traffic where you drive on the left and the roads are narrow and crowded. Wear a helmet, and never ride under the influence. Many travel insurance policies will not cover injuries if you do not hold a valid licence for the type of vehicle you are riding, so check the small print.

Vaccinations should be discussed well before departure with a travel health clinic. The disease picture can change, and recommendations depend on your route and your background. Malaria occurs in some parts of the country, particularly in remote areas of islands such as Flores and in parts of Sumatra, while Bali and the popular tourist areas are usually low risk. Talk to your doctor about prevention, and pack a mosquito net and insect repellent.

Indonesia lies in an area of earthquakes and volcanic activity, and tsunamis have struck several coastal areas. Follow local warnings and evacuation instructions, and read the national travel advice before you leave. When choosing travel insurance, check whether it covers hospital treatment, evacuation and repatriation, and whether it covers activities such as diving, volcano trekking and riding scooters.