Dry Season
From April to October, this season offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Indonesia
Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, offers a rich tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the serene beaches of Bali, each region has its unique charm and attractions.
Dohduhdah · CC0- Best MonthsApril to October
- AirportsSoekarno-Hatta, Ngurah Rai, Juanda
- TransitDomestic flights, buses, ferries
- Power230V, type C and F plugs
- TippingNot mandatory, but appreciated
- LanguageBahasa Indonesia
01
When to go
The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from April to October, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
From November to March, expect heavy rainfall and humidity, particularly in coastal areas.
Shoulder Season
April and October can be considered shoulder months, offering fewer crowds and decent weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Beach life
Seminyak
Known for its upscale beach resorts, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Can be crowded during peak season.
Cultural hub
Ubud
The cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by rice terraces and art galleries.
Quieter than coastal areas.
Urban experience
Jakarta
The bustling capital city with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historical sites.
Traffic can be heavy.
Cultural site
Yogyakarta
Famous for its traditional arts and cultural heritage, including the nearby Borobudur Temple.
Rich in history and art.
Adventure
Lombok
Known for its stunning beaches and hiking opportunities, including Mount Rinjani.
Less touristy than Bali.
Island getaway
Gili Islands
A group of small islands known for their beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life.
No motorized vehicles allowed.
Foodie destination
Bandung
A cool mountain city known for its colonial architecture and culinary scene.
Great for weekend getaways.
Nature escape
Nusa Penida
A stunning island with dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches, perfect for day trips.
Best explored with a guide.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Nasi Goreng
Fried rice typically served with chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. Look for it at local warungs.
→ A must-try comfort food.
Satay
Skewered and grilled meat served with peanut sauce, popular at street food stalls.
→ Try different meats for variety.
Rendang
A spicy beef stew slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices, often found in Padang restaurants.
→ Rich and flavorful dish.
Gado-Gado
A salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with peanut sauce, available at local eateries.
→ Healthy and delicious.
Bakso
Meatballs served in a savory broth, commonly sold by street vendors.
→ Perfect for a quick meal.
Soto
A traditional soup with meat and vegetables, found in various regional variations.
→ Great for warming up.
Tempeh
Fermented soybean cake, often served fried or in salads, available at many local markets.
→ A staple for vegetarians.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Borobudur Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Buddhist temple in the world, located in Central Java.
Bali Rice Terraces
Stunning terraced fields in Ubud, showcasing the traditional subak irrigation system.
Komodo National Park
Home to the famous Komodo dragons and stunning marine biodiversity, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Mount Bromo
An active volcano known for its breathtaking sunrise views and unique landscape.
Uluwatu Temple
A cliffside temple in Bali offering stunning ocean views and traditional Kecak dance performances.
Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua)
A historical area with colonial buildings, museums, and vibrant street life.
Tana Toraja
Famous for its unique funeral rites and traditional houses, located in South Sulawesi.
Lake Toba
The largest volcanic lake in the world, surrounded by beautiful scenery and Batak culture.
Raja Ampat Islands
A paradise for divers, known for its stunning coral reefs and marine life.
Prambanan Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, located in Yogyakarta.
Bali Safari and Marine Park
A wildlife park offering safari experiences and marine shows, suitable for families.
Kelimutu National Park
Home to the famous tri-colored lakes, a stunning natural phenomenon in Flores.
The Thousand Islands
A group of islands north of Jakarta, perfect for a quick escape from the city.
Bali's Sacred Monkey Forest
A nature reserve and temple complex in Ubud, home to hundreds of playful monkeys.
Candi Sukuh
A unique Javanese temple with a pyramid shape, located in Central Java.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Major airports include Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta), Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali), and Juanda International Airport (Surabaya).
CGKSoekarno-Hatta
DPSNgurah Rai
SUBJuanda
Domestic Flights
Numerous airlines operate domestic flights connecting major islands and cities, making travel convenient.
Public Transport
Buses and trains are available in major cities, but schedules can be irregular.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Popular in urban areas, these apps provide an easy way to get around without the hassle of public transport.
Ferries
Ferries connect many islands, offering scenic views during the journey.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Indonesia uses type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V.
Cash
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in cities.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up the bill or leave small change.
Language
Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A trip of at least two weeks is recommended to explore multiple islands.