Leaving for a tour in Indonesia guarantees an unforgettable adventure between Java and Bali, spectacular landscapes, and rich, diverse cultures. Whether it’s a customized trip or a group tour, this Southeast Asian country offers a multitude of possibilities for all budgets and desires. Here is everything you need to know to plan your Indonesian adventure.
When to go to Indonesia
Indonesia enjoys an equatorial climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. To make the most of your stay, it is crucial to choose the right time.
- Dry season: From May to September, this period is ideal for visiting the country. Temperatures are pleasant and the risk of rain is low, making travel easier and outdoor activities more enjoyable.
- Rainy season: From October to April, this is the period when showers are frequent. Although the landscapes are even greener, some places can become inaccessible during heavy rains.
Consequently, the best time to discover Indonesia is from May to September. However, some regions like Bali remain pleasant throughout the year thanks to their microclimate.
Must-see places to visit
Bali, the most famous island
This gem of Indonesia is undoubtedly the most famous island. Bali, with its beaches, temples, and unique culture, attracts millions of visitors each year. Here are some must-sees:
Ubud
Considered the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is full of art galleries, local markets, and traditional performances. Its terraced rice fields and monkey forest also make it a popular nature destination.
Ubud is a true haven of peace in the heart of Bali. This town is famous for its rich artistic and spiritual culture. You will find a multitude of art galleries offering works by local and international artists. Art lovers can also attend traditional Balinese dance performances, an essential experience to understand the local culture.
Ubud is also known for its local markets where you can buy handicrafts, traditional clothing, handmade jewelry, and of course, local spices. The Ubud market is a colorful and lively place, perfect for immersing yourself in the local atmosphere and making culinary discoveries.
Nature is at the core of Ubud’s appeal. The town is surrounded by terraced rice fields, offering lush and peaceful landscapes. A walk through these rice fields is a soothing and picturesque experience. Moreover, the monkey forest, a natural reserve home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques, is another must-see site. This dense forest is also the site of three sacred Hindu temples, adding a spiritual dimension to your visit.
Ubud is also a wellness center. Many spas offer traditional Balinese treatments, and the town is renowned for its yoga and meditation classes. Whether you are looking to relax, recharge, or immerse yourself in Balinese culture, Ubud has something to offer every traveler.
The beaches of Bali
Kuta: Kuta is probably the most famous beach in Bali. It is renowned for its perfect waves for surfing, white sand, and crystal-clear blue waters. Kuta is also known for its lively nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. It is the ideal place for those looking to combine beach relaxation and entertainment.
Seminyak: Located north of Kuta, Seminyak is a more sophisticated and tranquil beach. It is lined with designer boutiques, high-end spas, and gourmet restaurants. Seminyak is also famous for its stunning sunsets. It is the perfect spot for those seeking a bit more luxury and tranquility.
Jimbaran: Situated in the south of the island, Jimbaran is a fishing village beach that has managed to retain its authentic charm. It is famous for its seaside seafood restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish caught the same day. The sunset at Jimbaran is also a spectacle not to be missed. It is the ideal place for those wanting to discover the more traditional side of Bali.
Nusa Dua: Nusa Dua is a luxury resort enclave located on the east of the island. Nusa Dua beach is one of the calmest and cleanest in Bali. It is an ideal place for families and those looking to relax in a peaceful environment.
Sanur: Sanur is a quiet beach located on the east coast of Bali. It is known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Sanur is also famous for its seaside promenade lined with restaurants and shops. It is the perfect place for those wanting to enjoy the beach in a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Java, the island of a thousand faces: between active volcanoes and millennial temples
Mysterious and rich in history, the island of Java is home to Jakarta, the dynamic capital of Indonesia, as well as impressive natural and historical treasures.
Yogyakarta: often called “Yogya” by locals, is a city that has managed to preserve its traditional charm while embracing modernity. It is a major center of Javanese culture, known for its crafts, music, dance, and puppet shows.
The Borobudur temple is a must-see when visiting Yogyakarta. Dating from the 8th century, this Buddhist temple is the largest in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It consists of nine stacked platforms topped by a large central stupa. The walls and balustrades are adorned with bas-reliefs illustrating the life of Buddha. The sunrise from Borobudur is an experience not to be missed, offering a spectacular view of the temple and the surrounding volcanoes.
Not far from Borobudur is the Prambanan temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This 9th-century Hindu temple complex is dedicated to the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. The main temple of Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia, and one of the largest and most beautiful in Southeast Asia.
Yogyakarta is also known for the Sultan’s Palace, a magnificent example of Javanese architecture that is still the residence of the sultan. The palace, or Kraton, is a complex of luxurious buildings with courtyards, pavilions, gardens, and mosques. Visitors can explore different parts of the palace and discover Javanese history and culture.
Beyond these historical sites, Yogyakarta also offers a dynamic artistic scene. The city is famous for its batik, a wax-resist dyeing technique used to create colorful patterns on fabric. You can visit batik workshops to see artisans at work and even try creating your own batik.
For nature lovers, the Yogyakarta region offers many hiking opportunities, including Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. A sunrise ascent offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is an unforgettable experience.
The Bromo volcano: For hiking enthusiasts and lovers of breathtaking landscapes, climbing Mount Bromo at sunrise is an unforgettable experience.
The Bromo volcano: located in eastern Java, Bromo is one of the most active and famous volcanoes in Indonesia. It is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, a vast volcanic sand caldera covering 800 square kilometers.
Climbing Mount Bromo is a must-do experience for any traveler in Indonesia. The volcano, although active, is relatively safe to visit with experienced local guides. The ascent usually starts very early in the morning to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
The landscape along the way to the summit is simply breathtaking. You will cross the “Sea of Sand,” a vast expanse of volcanic sand, before beginning the actual climb. The trail is quite steep but well maintained and easy to follow.
Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view. The sunrise over the caldera is an incredible spectacle, with changing colors illuminating the lunar landscape. You can also glimpse the smoking crater of Bromo and hear its distant rumbling.
After enjoying the view, you can descend and explore the rest of the national park. It is home to a variety of wildlife and flora, as well as the Tengger tribe, an indigenous community that has lived in the region for centuries.
Don’t forget to visit the Hindu temple Pura Luhur Poten, located at the foot of Mount Bromo. This temple is an important pilgrimage site for the Tengger community, especially during the annual Yadnya Kasada ceremony.
Lombok, a precious island to preserve
Located east of Bali, Lombok is a quieter alternative that is still preserved.
The Gili Islands are an archipelago of three small islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. They are located off the northwest coast of Lombok and are easily accessible by boat from Bali or Lombok.
Gili Trawangan: It is the largest and most popular of the Gili Islands. It is known for its lively nightlife with many bars and restaurants. However, it also offers beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can observe a wide variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful corals there. Gili Trawangan is also famous for its sea swings, perfect for a sunset photo session.
Gili Meno: It is the smallest and quietest of the Gili Islands. It is ideal for those looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle. Gili Meno is known for its deserted beaches, calm waters, and turtle sanctuary. You can also visit the salt lake in the center of the island, an important habitat for birds.
Gili Air: It is a perfect mix between Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with enough restaurants and bars for an enjoyable evening. Gili Air is also an excellent spot for diving and snorkeling with many dive sites around the island.
The Gili Islands are also known for their commitment to environmental conservation. There are no cars or motorcycles on the islands, and many efforts are made to preserve the coral reefs and marine life. It is an ideal place for those looking to enjoy Indonesia’s natural beauty while respecting the environment.
Mount Rinjani: This active volcano offers challenging treks but is rewarded with splendid views.
Mount Rinjani, located on the island of Lombok, is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, reaching over 3,700 meters. It is a prime destination for trekking and nature enthusiasts.
Climbing Mount Rinjani is a demanding challenge, but the spectacular views of the crater, Segara Anak lake, and surrounding landscapes make it an unforgettable experience. The trek can last from two to four days, depending on the chosen route and your fitness level.
The trek usually starts in the village of Senaru or Sembalun. On the first day, you will pass through lush forests, meadows, and savannas, while enjoying panoramic views of the Bali Sea and the Gili Islands. On the second day, you will reach the summit before dawn to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Lombok island and beyond.
After reaching the summit, you will descend towards the crater to discover Segara Anak lake, a deep blue crater lake. You can relax and bathe in the natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
On the third day, you will continue your descent through varied landscapes, including pine forests and flowered meadows, before returning to the village.
It is important to note that the Mount Rinjani trek is considered difficult and is not recommended for beginners. It is also advised to do the trek with an experienced guide and to prepare adequately, including bringing enough water and food, as well as warm clothing for the cold temperatures at altitude.
Mount Rinjani is a sacred place for the inhabitants of Lombok. The summit is considered the dwelling of the gods and every year, a ceremony is held to bring offerings.
Tips for organizing your tour
Whether you choose a customized tour or a budget tour, good organization is essential to fully enjoy your adventure in Indonesia.
Choosing the right mode of transport
Indonesia being a vast archipelago, it is important to carefully plan your travel.
Domestic flights: They are often the fastest and most efficient way to travel between major islands like Java, Bali, and Lombok. Local companies offer regular and affordable flights.
Boats: Used for shorter trips between islands, ferries and fast boats allow you to reach destinations such as the Gili Islands from Bali or Lombok.
Planning your itinerary
For a first trip to Indonesia, a classic itinerary could include:
- Days 1-4: Jakarta and Yogyakarta (cultural discovery, temples)
- Days 5-8: Mount Bromo and Ijen, an immersion in volcanic landscapes
- Days 9-12: Bali (Ubud, beaches, temples)
- Days 13-15: Lombok and the Gili Islands (diving and relaxation)
Of course, this itinerary can be adjusted according to your interests and the length of your stay.
Accommodation in Indonesia
Whatever your budget, you will find a variety of accommodations in Indonesia ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
Hostels and guesthouses: They are numerous and offer a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for those looking for a budget tour.
Mid-range hotels: Many establishments offer good value for money, often with breakfast included and additional services such as a pool and spa.
Luxury villas and resorts: Ideal for relaxing after days of adventure, these establishments guarantee comfort and high-end services.
Must-experience activities
Immersion in local culture
Indonesia is a true melting pot of cultures and traditions. Participating in religious ceremonies, tasting local cuisine, and interacting with locals will enrich your stay.
Cuisine: Nasi goreng, satay, rendang… The culinary diversity is impressive and each region has its specialties. Don’t miss the night market to taste authentic dishes.
Art and crafts: Batik from Java, Balinese sculptures and masks, ikat fabrics from Lombok: each region has its own traditional art. They also make wonderful souvenirs to bring back.
Outdoor activities
For nature and adventure lovers, Indonesia offers many possibilities:
Hiking: Between volcanoes like Bromo and Rinjani or in the jungles of Sumatra, options abound.
Diving and snorkeling: Sites like Komodo and Raja Ampat are among the best diving spots worldwide.
Using a specialized agency
To simplify the organization of your trip, consulting a specialized agency, such as Comptoir des Voyages, can be very useful. They will be able to offer a customized itinerary tailored to your desires and ensure smooth logistics.
Advantages: In-depth knowledge of the area, itinerary personalization, support in case of emergency.
Choice: You can opt for group tours led by experienced guides, ideal for meeting other travelers and sharing experiences.
