Travel
Fun Things To Do In Indonesia
Welcome to the lively tapestry of a Southeast Asian gem, and let us show you the greatest things to do in Indonesia. You’re about to embark on an excursion of the archipelago’s best-kept secrets and must-see destinations. From mystical temples to volcanic landscapes, exquisite beaches to untamed wilderness, Indonesia has an unrivaled variety of experiences for any adventurer.
1. Visit Jakarta – you’ve got to!
If you’re seeking for adventure in Indonesia, be sure to include Jakarta on your travel plan. The busy metropolis is more than simply a gateway to the archipelago; it is a lively city with its own exciting adventures. Explore Kota Tua’s old town, where Dutch colonial architecture meets modern street art, creating a one-of-a-kind blend of history and culture.
Explore the lively street food scene, sampling sizzling satay skewers and delectable rendang meat. The National Museum has everything you need to know about Indonesia, and Chinatown is a must-see. Then, for a dose of nature in the city, visit the Thousand Islands, a natural archipelago just off the coast where you can snorkel among bright coral reefs and sunbathe on immaculate beaches. Jakarta offers an adventure as diverse as Indonesia itself!
2. Search for the elusive Javan Gibbon in Pangandaran National Park
Pangandaran, located on the southern coast of Indonesia’s Java island, is an experience waiting to be found and a must-see on your bucket list. And if a cheeky monkey doesn’t merit a spot on the greatest things to do in Indonesia, what does? Pangandaran, with its jagged coastline, rich jungles, and untamed nature, is a thrill-seeker’s dream. Take an amazing tour through
Pangandaran National Park, where you may hike through deep jungles and discover secret waterfalls, all while keeping a watch out for the elusive Javan Gibbon swinging through the trees.
3. Visit our beloved Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, or “Yogya” as it is commonly known, is an absolute paradise for adventurers. Surrounded by Indonesia’s most renowned volcanoes (including Mount Merapi and Mount Bromo), the morning views are just stunning.
The Yogya region also has remarkable cave systems, as well as options for jungle trekking and white water rafting nearby, and the world’s largest Buddhist building. If you’re seeking for the greatest things to do in Indonesia, make sure to include Yogya on your agenda!
4. Don’t forget your tummy – eat as many Indonesian delicacies as you can!
Indonesia’s food landscape is undoubtedly a delectable trip for your palate. Every meal here is a culinary explosion, from the spicy rendang beef to the crispy, golden perfection of the nasi goreng (fried rice). Don’t forget a dollop of spicy sambal on the side.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, gado-gado is a delicious dish with peanut sauce and fried tofu on top of an Indonesian-style salad.
Then there’s the martabak pancake, which is excellent when stuffed with chocolate or cheese!
5. Overnight at homestays
Staying with local families not only provides a reasonable and pleasant overnight stay, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the heart of Indonesian culture.
Homestays provide opportunities to establish meaningful connections with the community by sharing traditional meals and learning about local customs and traditions. You’ll get insights that go beyond normal tourist encounters, making your time in Indonesia truly unique and authentic. Homestays are an excellent (and economical) way to enhance your trip experience – plus,
6. Go to Bali. Don’t you dare skip it.
Indonesia without Bali is like a tropical cocktail without an umbrella; it’s simply not the same. Ask everyone who has been, and they will tell you that Bali is the best thing to do in Indonesia. As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why the province (and Indonesia’s largest Hindu island) has grown in popularity over the previous few decades.
Bali has it all: gorgeous beaches, lush rice terraces, vivid cultural experiences, and a nightlife that is as fiery as the equatorial sun. If you’re planning an Indonesian journey, you’d best pencil in Bali—in fact, use a biro!
7. Trek Mount Bromo
Trekking Mount Bromo is an absolute must-do and certainly one of the top things to do in Indonesia, as explained below. The renowned volcano rises from the stunning Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where visitors will witness a bizarre, otherworldly scenery unlike any other on Earth. Make sure to start your hike to Bromo’s rim before dawn to see the hypnotic spectacle of sunrise spreading a warm glow over the huge, eerie sand sea and the burning caldera below.
The sight of Mount Bromo’s billowing smoke against the background of unending volcanic terrain is truly breathtaking. For both adventurers and nature lovers, climbing Mount Bromo is a remarkable experience that captures the raw, natural splendor of Indonesia’s surroundings. If you are traveling Indonesia, you must visit Bromo!
8. Take in the temples
Indonesia is full with temples, each one unique, with each stone meticulously carved to produce show after spectacular. We recommend visiting as many as possible to gain a sense of Indonesia’s heritage (and to relax!).
If you plan to visit temples in Indonesia, make sure to have something to cover your shoulders and upper legs; you don’t want to be turned away. Our particular fave is the Tirta Empul Temple in Ubud, Bali, where you can get your soul cleansed in the holy waters. Make sure you take a swim in those sacred waters whenever you get the chance!
9. Rent a bike and see Indonesia on two wheels
Staying with local families not only provides a reasonable and pleasant overnight stay, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the heart of Indonesian culture.
Homestays provide opportunities to establish meaningful connections with the community by sharing traditional meals and learning about local customs and traditions. You’ll get insights that go beyond normal tourist encounters, making your time in Indonesia truly unique and authentic. Homestays are an excellent (and economical) way to enhance your trip experience – plus, hey, you have to stay somewhere!
10. Visit Ubud while you’re there
Nestled in the heart of Bali’s verdant interior is an adventurer’s Eden waiting to be discovered: hey, Ubud! Surrounded by verdant rice terraces, lush woods, and magical temples, this town is unlike any other. Trek to secret waterfalls like Tegenungan and Tibumana, where you may cool yourself in the clear waters after an exciting hike. Explore the renowned Monkey Forest Sanctuary and mingle with playful macaques in their natural environment. For a spiritual journey, attend a yoga or meditation retreat!
Ubud is the entryway to a world of adventure and calm, where nature and culture blend harmoniously, providing a genuinely unforgettable experience in the heart of Bali.