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Indonesia
Indonesia is a must-visit for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich biodiversity. Discover Bali's beautiful beaches, Komodo Island's unique wildlife, and Borobudur's ancient temples. Explore bustling Jakarta, lush rainforests, and serene rice terraces. Indonesia offers an unforgettable adventure across its many islands.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 10. October
Vacation type
Beach, Family, Couple, Nature, Sightseeing, Hiking, Party
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, 0-50€, <100€
Temperature
Over 30°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Asia
Currency
Indonesian rupiah
Languages
Indonesian
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time 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.
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).
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
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.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Bali
- Enjoy the island’s stunning beaches, terraced rice paddies, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant culture, including temples like Uluwatu and sacred sites such as Tirta Empul.
2. Komodo Island
- Visit this island in the Komodo National Park to see the famous Komodo dragons and explore its pristine beaches and marine life.
3. 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.
4. Raja Ampat Islands
- Discover the biodiversity of these remote islands in West Papua, renowned for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diving opportunities.
5. Mount Rinjani
- Trek through this active volcano on Lombok Island, featuring a stunning crater lake and challenging hiking trails.
6. 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.
Cultural Attractions
1. Yogyakarta
- Visit this cultural hub in Java, home to historic sites like the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, and experience its vibrant arts and traditional performances.
2. Jakarta
- Explore Indonesia’s capital city, known for its diverse neighborhoods, museums such as the National Museum, and the bustling old town area, Kota Tua.
3. Bali’s Temples
- Experience Bali’s spiritual heritage through its numerous temples, including the iconic Tanah Lot, Besakih, and the water temple Tirta Empul.
4. Bandung
- Discover this city’s colonial architecture, nearby volcanic landscapes, and vibrant local culture.
5. Surabaya
- Explore the historical and cultural landmarks of Indonesia’s second-largest city, including the House of Sampoerna and the Heroes Monument.
6. 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.
Bali’s Temples
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.
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.
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.
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.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
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.