Indonesia Tours & Vacations
If you thought Indonesia was all big resorts and Bintang, it might be time to check your atlas.
Because there isn’t really just one Indonesia... not when you’re an archipelago made up of 17,000 individual islands (only 8,000 of which have ever seen a human footprint). One minute you’re spotting orangutans in the jungles of Sumatra, the next you’re chowing down on an organic acai bowl in Ubud. You could be hiking the slopes of Mt Batur or kicking back on the sugar-white beaches of Gili Air (preferably holding a delicious tropical cocktail). Whether you’re looking for party, peace or paradise, the odds are good we’ve got an Indonesia tour that fits the bill.
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Beautiful Bali
Beautiful Bali
Beautiful Bali
Beautiful Bali
Beautiful Bali
Articles of Indonesia
Indonesia at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Jakarta (population 9.2 million)
POPULATION
242.9 million
CURRENCY
IDR
LANGUAGE
Indonesian
TIME ZONE
(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta
CALLING CODE
+62
ELECTRICITY
Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)
Learn more about Indonesia
Best time to visit Indonesia
Indonesia’s close proximity to the equator ensures consistently hot and humid weather in all seasons; however, its tropical climate means many areas are prone to periods of heavy rainfall. The wet season normally takes place from October to April and flooding can make the roads difficult to travel at times.
Popular vacation spots like Bali tend to receive large crowds during Christmas and school holidays but are significantly less crowded in shoulder seasons. Also worth keeping in mind are Indonesia’s various religious holidays. With a large population of practicing Muslims, Ramadan results in the closure of many services, so expect a quieter experience when traveling during Ramadan.
Geography and environment
An archipelago of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia works its way across several oceans, beginning with the island of Sumatra in the West and stretching to Irian Jaya in the East. In between, Indonesia includes a sizeable part of Borneo, as well as larger islands such as Java, Bali and Sulawesi. With such a broad selection of islands, Indonesia encompasses a variety of landscapes such as: thick tropical jungle, fertile rice fields, grasslands and volcanic mountain ranges. Indonesia’s ecosystems are full of a rich variety of flora and fauna including the very rare Sumatran tiger and elephant, the Javan rhino and the fierce Komodo Dragon. Indonesia is also famous for its incredible beaches and marine life. With thousands of kilometers of reefs, beaches, bays and lagoons, Indonesia is a diver's paradise.
Top 10 creatures of Indonesia
1. Sumatran Rhino
Appearing almost prehistoric, the Sumatran rhino is smaller in both size and number than its African cousins. Covered in a reddish brown fur, the Sumatran rhino is a solitary animal, and has been quietly grazing the grasslands for thousands of years.
2. Sulawesi Giant Squirrel
Living deep within Sulawesi’s rainforest canopies, this enigmatic and shy rodent can be tough to spot, so stay quiet and alert if you want to catch a glimpse of one.
3. Sun Bear
A perennial favorite, the sun bear can be found on many of Indonesia’s islands. Perhaps suffering from ‘small bear syndrome’, these fiery characters are often quite aggressive, defying their nickname as the ‘Honey Bear’.
4. Sulawesi Macaque
Native to the island of Sulawesi, these crafty primates are known for being exceptionally social creatures. With family groups usually led by dominant females, Sulawesi macaques are a prime example of 'girl power' in action.
5. Sumatran Tiger
A noble predator with an almost mythical status, the Sumatran tiger stalks its prey deep within the jungles of Sumatra. With some estimates putting their numbers at just over 300, an international effort is underway to protect this incredible animal.
6. Javan Slow Loris
Slow in name, slow in nature. Don’t be fooled though, this super-cute creature packs a deadly punch – it is the world's only poisonous primate!
7. Long-Beaked Echidna
Inhabiting the island of New Guinea, this crazy critter snuffles about the forest floor using its large snout. Don’t expect to see many of these guys though; they are classified as ‘critically endangered’.
8. Komodo Dragon
The fearsome Komodo Dragon is the world’s largest lizard, often weighing up to 70 kilograms. Described as the ‘perfect predator’, this stealthy beast makes for an exhilarating sight.
9. Moluccan Flying Snake
Scared of snakes? Now you'll have to search the ground and the air as these aerodynamic reptiles have found a novel way to move between the treetops, by becoming airborne and gliding for up to 30 meters.
10. Babirusa
What do you get when you cross a pig and a deer? The odd looking Babirusa: a short and stocky animal with large, curled horns. Native to Indonesia, populations of these bizarre beasts are sadly in decline due to poaching and habitat loss.
Further reading
Title | Author |
A House in Bali | Colin McPhee |
A Short History of Bali: Indonesia's Hindu Realm | Robert Pringle |
A Little Bit One O'Clock: Living with a Balinese Family | William Ingram |
The Year of Living Dangerously | Christopher Koch |
This Earth of Mankind | Pramoedya Ananta Toer |
Local culture
The culture of Indonesia is diverse and varied across the approximately 6,000 inhabited islands. There are over 300 different languages spoken across the islands, however most people can speak Bahasa Indonesian. Despite the diversity, Indonesian tends to have a strong cultural bond, with the national slogan meaning Unity in Diversity. Religion is a big contributor to cultural identity in Indonesia, with everyone needing to have an official religion, which will be listed on their national identification card. Generally speaking, you can only marry people of the same religion as you. The majority of the population are Muslim and, but Christianity, Catholicism, Hinduism and Buddhism are also practiced.
Food and drink
Here are some of the most popular foods and drinks you should try in Indonesia.
Satay
Satay is delicious skewered meat (often chicken), which is cooked over hot coals, covered in a spicy peanut sauce. Vegetarians can also try this sauce on rice cakes called ketupat. Satay is a great meal to eat on the run or equally good as part of a feast in a restaurant.
Beef rendang
Similar to a beef curry (although with less sauce and a richer flavor), Beef Rendang is a spicy dish that is traditionally served at special festive events like weddings. However, travelers will be able to sample this dish all over Indonesia.
Nasi Goreng
Indonesian fried rice known as Nasi Goreng is Indonesia’s national dish for good reason. This famous meal is eaten all over the world in many different formats, but what makes Indonesia’s rendition particularly special is the darkness of the rice, thanks to the use of thick, sweet soy sauce known as kecap manis.
Siomany
These steamed fish dumplings served in peanut sauce are Indonesia’s answer to dim sum. The cone shaped packages can be made with a variety of fish including tuna, mackerel and even prawn. They’re a popular street food and can be found at many streetside stalls and restaurants.
Nasi uduk
Nasi uduk translates to mixed rice, and is a dish of rice cooked in coconut milk mixed with various herbs and spices. It is normally served with some sort of meat dish or curry.
Tea and coffee
Tea and coffee are the most common and popular beverages in Indonesia. They are often served sweeter than you may be used to drinking at home.
Shopping
For most travelers, shopping in Indonesia will be very affordable, with opportunities to purchase authentic arts and crafts, including traditional batik clothing, woodcarvings, pottery and other unusual items. On bigger islands like Bali and Java, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to shopping opportunities. Tourist centers can be worthwhile if you are looking to buy handcrafted items like puppets, leatherworks and batik. Otherwise, explore local markets for clothing, shoes, antiques and other items.
At most markets, bargaining is encouraged. If you want more information about haggling in Asia, check out this blog.
Festivals and events
There are many different religious and cultural celebrations in Indonesia, but some of the key public holidays include:
Galungan dan Kuningan
Celebrating the victory of light over darkness. Many believe their ancestors visit their relatives on earth during this time.
Kartini Day
The birthday of the national heroine Raden Ayu Kartini, who fought for women's education rights.
National Awakening Day
Celebrates the coming together of people from the 17,000 islands of Indonesia as a national identity.
National Batik Day
Celebrates the traditional batik clothing and is commemorated in October on the day when UNESCO first acknowledged batik as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage in 2009.
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
- Lailat al Miraj
- Chinese New Year
- Hari Raya Nyepi
- Eid al-Fitr
- Ascension Day
- Buddha's Birthday
- Eid al-Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Birth of Prophet Mohammed
Please note the dates of Indonesia's public holidays may vary.
Top islands to visit in Indonesia
Bali
Bali might be known for its Instagrammable smoothies and rice paddies, but there is so much more to this island paradise than meets the eye. The mountain areas are second to none, the waterfalls are stunning and the beaches are iconic. Ubud is a yogi paradise, while a sunrise climb to Mt. Batur is perfect for hikers looking for a challenge.
Whether you're looking to hike and cycle or relax on the beach and in hot springs, we've got a Bali tour that'll tick all the boxes.
Lombok
Learn about the unique Sasak culture on Lombok from the food, arts and crafts and farming. The secluded beaches are less visited than their Balinese neighbor, but no less beautiful. If your visit is over a weekend, you may also be able to witness a traditional wedding to experience the local customs, dress and feasting.
Komodo and Flores
There is only one place on earth to see the legendary Komodo Dragons in the wild, and that is Komodo National Park. Two of the more notable islands that make up the park are Komodo and Flores, both of which are great places to catch a glimpse of these famous reptiles.
Kalimantan
Located in the Indonesian section of Borneo, exploring the jungle is an experience you’ll never forget. Keep an eye out for orangutans, meet with friendly locals and learn about how they work to conserve the wildlife in this largely untouched slice of paradise.
Indonesia travel FAQs
Passport holders for most nationalities are permitted to enter Visa Free for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. Please check with your relevant consulate or embassy.
Entry requirements: presentation of onward or return tickets, passport which is valid for at least 6 months. Visitors on Visa-free Short Visits must enter AND exit from certain airports and seaports in Indonesia including: Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta Airport), Bali (Ngurah Rai Airport), Yogyakarta (Adisucipto Airport) and Surabaya (Juanda Airport). This currently excludes entry and exist from Lombok (Bandar Udara International Airport). Visa-free Short Visits cannot be extended and cannot be transferred to another type of visa.
Some nationalities are required to obtain a visa on arrival, or in advance. Citizens of countries who aren't on the visa on arrival or visa-free lists are required to apply for a visa overseas before travelling to Indonesia.
Nationals of all countries planning to stay for more than 30 days in Indonesia have to apply for the appropriate visa at an overseas Indonesian consulate or embassy before their departure.
Local laws require that you must always carry identification. We recommend taking a clear photocopy of your passport photo page and photo of your visa (after arriving), to carry with you.
Indonesia has a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season and hot, humid weather throughout the year. Temperatures average 72°F to 90°F along the coast, but it's typically a bit cooler at higher elevations such as the Padang Highlands in Sumatra and Mt Bromo in Java. The sea is warm all year, with temperatures averaging a balmy 79°F to 82°F.
Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Indonesia, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good.
Internet access is widely available in tourist areas like Bali, which has many internet cafes. Internet access is less common in rural and remote areas.
You'll be able to use your cell phone in most urban areas of Indonesia, although some of the islands or more remote areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your cell carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your phone while in Indonesia.
You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while in Indonesia. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to. However, western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.
Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Indonesia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found, some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.
Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Indonesia. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Indonesia.
ATMs are found widely throughout Indonesia, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so be prepared for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Indonesia can be a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities because pavements are uneven and steps are frequent, paving is poorly maintained and footpaths are usually obstructed with parked vehicles, street stalls and debris. Accessible public toilets are rare other than in big modern shopping malls. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available only through specialist tour operators, but cars and drivers can be hired readily and are good value. Local guides are easy to find in tourist areas. Bali has a wider range of tourism services and more developed facilities, including some accessible accommodation options. Some sights such as Borobudur and Prambanan in Yogyakarta are partially wheelchair accessible. Visitors generally find that Indonesians are very welcoming and willing to help those with access needs. The Asian Para Games took place in Jakarta in 2018 and have helped raise the profile of people with disabilities in the country as well as give new direction for making facilities more accessible in the capital.
Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Intrepid and we know that many of our travelers are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s important for our travelers to be aware of the local laws and customs in the destinations we visit as some countries have laws that discriminate against LGBTQIA+ people. We recommend you visit Equaldex and/or Smartraveller before you choose your trip for up-to-date advice and information about LGBTQIA+ related laws.
Homosexuality is not currently illegal in Indonesia, other than in Aceh province (which is governed by Islamic law), however the LGBTQIA+ community has routinely been targeted and harassed by police.
Revisions to Indonesia’s criminal code that would allow prison sentences of up to five years for sex between unmarried people are being considered by parliament. These changes would criminalize same-sex relationships and advocacy groups are fearing a profound setback to human rights in Indonesia as a result.
A predominantly Muslim country, Islamic organisations have increasingly been pressuring the government on moral issues and in the past few years politicians and public figures have frequently been using anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric as a means to win votes. Gay dating apps and media portraying LGBTQIA+ behaviour as “normal” have been banned. Same-sex marriage, civil partnerships, and adoption are all illegal, and the lack of anti-discrimination laws means that attacks on the LGBTQIA+ community in Indonesia regularly go unpunished.
There are few gay-friendly venues outside of Bali. Because sex in general is a taboo subject in Indonesian society, the issue of sexuality is unlikely to arise while traveling here. The majority of the country is safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers, provided you are willing to be discreet and cautious with public behaviour. Bali, with its Hindu majority, has always been more liberal, tolerant and relaxed in attitude, however public displays of affection are still not the norm for any couples anywhere in the country. Upscale hotels will likely not have any issues with same-sex travelers sharing a bed, however at budget or family-run businesses if you are allocated separate beds you might feel more comfortable not to draw attention to your relationship.
For more information on LGBTQIA+ travel in Indonesia, visit:
https://queerintheworld.com/lgbt-rights-in-indonesia/
https://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/Pages/lgbti-travellers.aspx
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Indonesia directly support our foundation partner, Coral Triangle Center Foundation.
Coral Triangle Center Foundation
The Coral Triangle Center is on a mission to restore coastal and marine ecosystems in Indonesia through training and education. Over the last several years, coral reefs along the northern coast of Nusa Penida have suffered from widespread mortality due to irresponsible marine tourism, disease, coral bleaching, tropical storms and water pollution. Donations from our trips help their coral restoration project in Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area and support their educational outreach activities for local schools in Nusa Penida.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.