Indonesia Travel Guide

Before you begin your journey, discover all there is to know about breathtaking Indonesia! Did you know Indonesia has over 17,000 islands spanning Southeast Asia to Oceania? This is perfect news for those wanting to travel, as you are spoilt for choice.

If you're planning to explore Indonesia and need some tips, here's what to know: the official language is Indonesian, and the currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. We hope this Indonesian travel guide can help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime!

The Best Time to Visit

Wondering when the best time to visit Indonesia is? It's during the dry season! The days are hot and dry from May to September, and there’s no rain cloud in sight. You’ll have excellent weather for scuba diving, hiking, and lazy days at the beach.

When looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, consider booking your flights to Indonesia during the shoulder season. The shoulder season is between November and March. Bridging the Equator, Indonesia is hot all year round, with the only change coming between November and March when the country sees widespread rain, particularly in the south.

Hottest month: May

Coldest month: Febuary

Wettest month: January

Windiest month: January

Must Visit Destinations

If you’re visiting Indonesia anytime soon, then make sure to keep these beautiful places in Indonesia on your bucket list to ensure your trip is fulfilled.

Gili Islands, Lombok

Best place for beach parties and explorers

Gili Trawangan (also known as ‘Gili T’) is the largest and most developed of the islands, with a main drag that heaves with shops, massage parlours and cafes. Gili Meno is the smallest and most traditional island, while Gili Air offers the best of both worlds and is a lively hub for yoga tourism.

These islands are very popular with tourists and it's no surprise as there is so much to see and do. Besides adventure sports like snorkelling, surfing and diving, island hopping, and fishing, there are also lots of restaurants, cafes and beach parties. Some suggestions that are popular on where to eat and drink while visiting are Ya Ya Warung, Kayu Cafe and Little Bali Restaurant.

The easiest way to get to the Gilis from Lombok's airport is to walk to the nearest travel agent and ask them about excursions to the Gili Islands and they will organise a boat trip for you. Travellers can expect warm hospitality and a genuine sense of community, offering a slightly different vibe from nearby Bali. While crime rates are low in Lombok, small precautions go a long way.

Ubud, Bali

Best city for wellness and culture

Ubud is a great place to enjoy some time among the rice fields and rice terraces and to appreciate Balinese culture better. Nature lovers will find Ubud to offer plenty of beautiful scenery and places to walk. Ubud tends to be one of my most recommended areas to stay in Bali, due to its central location and the fact that it is home to many of the most interesting places to visit on the island. Ubud has a more spiritual and cultural atmosphere. Plus, it hosts some of the best waterfalls in Bali.

This on-trend city offers lots to see and do such as the monkey forest, local temples, markets and yoga. The closest beach destinations from Ubud are Sanur and Padangbai, with travel times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes by car or scooter. Some visitors travel to Ubud to experience being hypnotised by the beauty of courtly Legong ballets or wild Kecak fire dancing. It's well known as a place to go on a wellness retreat and connect with nature.

Ubud sits around 40km north of the airport by road. It's a good idea to plan transport from the airport to where you are staying before you get there. Safety while walking alone at night in Ubud is rated as high. However, solo, female travellers, and group travellers are advised to remain alert when walking alone at night in Ubud. Due to the island being tropical, there are active volcanos and risks of flooding so be cautious however, this is very rare.

Komodo National Park, Komodo Island

Best place for surprising wildlife encounters

The Komodo National Park encompasses a total of 29 volcanic islands (including the 3 major islands Rinca, Padar and Komodo) and is home to approximately 2,500 Komodo Dragons. I know what you are thinking, do these creatures just roam around the Island? The answer is yes and you are allowed to visit the Island. These ancient-looking creatures can grow up to 3m in length and weigh up to 70kg. Sadly, there are fewer than 1400 of these fork-tongued giants left in the wild.

This park isn't just known for being a home to the Komodo dragons, it's also a great diving spot. Komodo National Park conveniently sits in the heart of the Asia Pacific Coral Triangle and is home to one of the world’s richest marine environments. The area is famous for its fierce currents, riptides, and whirlpools which bring in rich nutrients from the depths of the Indian Ocean to create ideal conditions for thousands of species of tropical fish and corals to flourish.

When visiting, make sure you go and see Pink Beach. It is one in seven in the world to have a glowing soft pink tinge! Keep in mind that the Komodo Dragons can be fairly dangerous so make sure to keep your wits about you. The easiest way to access the Komodo Islands is by flying into Labuan Bajo on Flores and taking a boat tour from there.

Jakarta, Java

Best city for art and history

Jakarta, Indonesia's massive capital, sits on the northwest coast of the island of Java. Home to millions of people from around the world, the city is a mixture of languages and cultures which is great for those who are travelling. It’s also home to the nation’s finest restaurants, wildest nightclubs and best museums. For history lovers, take time to browse the collections in the Museum Nasional (for history), Galeri Nasional (for classical art) and MACAN (for modern and contemporary art).

If you are looking for busy nightlife, restaurants and bars then look no further than Jakarta! As chaotic as this city is, it's a great experience to embrace the Indonesian lifestyle. Did you know that some of Asia's grandest shopping malls amongst local markets are located in Jakarta?

Make sure to not wear revealing clothing and to dress appropriately otherwise, is it deemed disrespectful. The streets in Jakarta are very busy, filled with people and traffic so be careful when crossing roads. With the city centre located approximately 40 kilometres from the airport, the ride can take anywhere from 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the traffic so pre-book a taxi.

Food and Drinks

If you are visiting Indonesia, make sure you don't miss a chance to taste these delicious cuisines! Sate is popular in Indonesia- it's slices of marinated meat grilled in bamboo skewers on a charcoal open fire. You can find sate made of various kinds of meats, such as chicken, beef, lamb, scallops, and fish. Mie Ayam is another traditional dish, known as Chicken Noodle. It is one of the popular dishes that you can easily find at the street stalls everywhere (it also comes with Bakso).

Not only delicious special food, Indonesia also has a variety of refreshing special drinks to taste. Even some of these special drinks have benefits for your body’s health. This is because typical Indonesian drinks are formulated from natural ingredients, such as spices. Make sure to try Wedang Uwuh when visiting as it's a drink containing leaves and spices with high levels of antioxidants. A few other popular drinks include Kawa Daun, Teh Talua and Brem Bali

Tips for Travellers

Before you set off on your journey to Indonesia here are a few traveller tips that will give you the knowledge you need to navigate the country with confidence:

• Make sure to stay updated on vaccinations and health advisories.
• Book travel insurance and make sure your flights are protected.
• Drink bottled water and be cautious about street food as you don't want to get ill.
• A COVID-19 vaccination certificate is no longer necessary but all travellers entering Indonesia must complete a SatuSehat Health Pass.
• Indonesia experiences thousands of earthquakes each year and has 129 active volcanoes so be careful when exploring.
• Buy a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport so that you have credit and internet data wherever you go.
• Make sure to travel light especially if you are planning on hiking up the mountains.

Cultural Insights

Visiting this country is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you mesmerised and excited to return. While here, you’ll encounter friendly locals, delicious food, and a rich history that dates back centuries. Indonesia is home to over 700 languages and countless cultures, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world.

Family is central to Indonesian culture however, there is a sort of hierarchy regarding age. Elders are considered to have the most wisdom and are therefore the most deserving of authority. Did you know that eating with your hands is very common in Indonesia? The right hand is used for eating, while the left hand is reserved for personal hygiene.

Indonesia has many different dances, including the Paraga, Cakalele, Gala, Sajojo, and War Dance. The graceful movements of Balinese dancers and the rhythmic beats of the gendang drum are common at ceremonies. The most popular arts can differ slightly depending on the island or region of Indonesia you visit. Some popular art forms include specific forms of visual art, such as painting and carving, which are highly regarded in Indonesia.

Practical Information

There are a few things you need to know before visiting Indonesia such as visa and passport information and how to stay safe.

If you are planning on visiting Indonesia then you might be thinking, "Do I need a visa"? The answer is yes, currently citizens of the UK, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States and almost all other nationalities require a visa to visit Indonesia. At this time, there is a visa-on-arrival service available. The cost is approximately $40 per person which is payable in cash $, £ and Euro also on card.

It's important to know the maximum period of stay for an e-visa is 30 days which can be extended for a further 30 days. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months on the day of exit and should contain at least one empty page on the day of arrival.

Travellers to Indonesia should check official sources such as their embassy or consulate for what vaccinations are required for your visit at least eight weeks before travel. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended. Typhoid vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis are also recommended for some areas.

Due to the huge population, avoid travelling during peak times, especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta. Traffic can be horrendous and journey time estimates on apps like Google Maps or Grab are unreliable. When travelling around Indonesia it might be nice to learn a few phrases as English is spoken only in tourist areas.

Popular Activities and Attractions

Historical sites

If you want to learn about some Indonesian history then visit what is believed to be the biggest (and certainly the most mysterious) Buddhist temple ruin that dates back over 1200 years. You can always check out the cultural wonders like Old Town Batavia, National Museum, and National Monument and learn the history of this city that once was a legendary harbour town where traders from Dutch and England made their visits.

Outdoor activities

You might have Indonesia on your Southeast Asia bucket list for its gorgeous beaches or delicious food, however, we think the best part is the activities and attractions. Activities that are popular with tourists include surfing, snorkelling, cave exploring, monkey watching, island hopping, horseback riding, volcano hiking and diving. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Indonesia promises unforgettable experiences.

Excursions in Indonesia are usually safe if you take some precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, following local advice, and being aware of potential risks. One of the pros to visiting Indonesia is that everything is very cheap, such as food, alcohol, accommodation, transport and excursions. Therefore, it's one of the best places to try new experiences.

Beach clubs

If you have never been to Indonesia before, visiting a beach club is a must. Every one of them is different with its unique vibe. From sunsets to jungle views and infinity pools overlooking the ocean, you will not regret hitting at least one beach club for a day (or evening). One of the most popular beach clubs in Indonesia is FINNS Beach Club in Canguu. It's the perfect place for amazing cocktails, all-you-can-eat food and a chance to sunbathe whilst listening to music.

A relatively new addition to the beach club scene in Bali it is very conveniently located 100m from Old Mans in Batu Bolong. Sitting on the foreshore of the hip Canggu beach, The Lawn has quickly become a favourite haunt for locals, expats and visitors alike. Soak up the midday sun, lounge by the pool, and enjoy a cocktail or the sensational tunes from visiting DJs after dark.

Most beach clubs in Indonesia have an amazing view of the ocean and come with direct access to the beach, but not all spots are suitable for swimming in the ocean for different reasons. It's highly recommended you do — a little bit of planning will help make your day a fantastic experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your day:

• Purchase your tickets beforehand to save money
• Security will likely ask you to leave any food and drinks before entering, including bottled water.
• You will likely be subjected to a security search before entering, including backpacks, shopping and handbags.

Getting to Indonesia

Your holidays in Indonesia start with booking your flights. Depending on where you want to start exploring the huge country, different airports can make sense. With over 600 airlines to choose from, as well as more than 40 ways to pay Alternative Airlines can help you conveniently book your flights to Indonesia. We offer a wide range of flights to cities throughout Indonesia that will suit both your budget and your travel needs.

Whether you are flying domestically, from the USA or even Europe we can help secure your flights!

Flights to Jakarta

Many airlines from around the world offer direct flights to Jakarta. If you're planning on visiting then we recommend booking your tickets in advance, as prices can fluctuate since Indonesia is a popular destination.

The main airport in Jakarta is Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) which is about 40 kilometres from the city centre. The travel time from the airport to the city centre by taxi can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The airport also has a free SkyTrain that runs between terminals 1, 2, and 3. The SkyTrain runs every 10–15 minutes, and the trip between terminals takes about 5 minutes.

Flights to Bali

When flying to Bali the best airport to visit is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar (DPS), which offers domestic and international flights. There are no non-stop UK flights to Bali. Garuda Indonesia flies via Jakarta from the UK, so its flights are among the shortest, coming in at just over 18 hours.

The main international airport of Bali, Indonesia is located 13 kilometres from Downtown Denpasar, it serves the Denpasar metropolitan area and the whole island of Bali. The airport only has 2 terminals and is the third busiest in the world therefore make sure you pre-book a transfer from the airport. You can get to the city from the airport by public transportation, cab, shuttle or car rental. It will take you no more than 20 minutes by car.

Flights to Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat Islands are situated far to the east of Indonesia and require a lengthy journey to reach, though accessibility has improved in recent years. If you are planning on flying to Raja Ampat then fly into Sorong which is located in the Indonesian province of West Papua. Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ) serves as the gateway to the Raja Ampat islands.

Due to Indonesia's being made up of thousands of Islands, you will often need to get a ferry. For example, many tourists fly into Jakarta, then directly fly onward to Sorong and finally catch a ferry to Raja Ampat.

Airlines that fly to Indonesia

Airlines that commonly fly to Indonesia, and Bali with one-stop include:

• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• Cathay Pacific

There are a few airlines that fly to Indonesia from UK airports with quick connections. The following airlines fly to Jakarta from the UK with one stop: KLM which stops over in Amsterdam, Etihad stops via Abu Dhabi and Turkish Airlines has a stop in Istanbul. The most popular route is from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Kuta. On average this flight takes 20 hours and 11 minutes one way.

If you are searching for flights from the USA to Indonesia then consider booking with airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Eva Air, All Nippon Airways or China Airlines. Alternatively, choose from the 45 other airlines that fly from the United States to Indonesia. The most popular route is from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) which takes around 24 hours and 15 minutes one way.

If you plan on travelling Indonesia's 17,000 islands then consider flying with airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air and AirAsia. They operate a vast network of flights connecting Indonesia's top destinations.

Search and buy multi-stop flights to Indonesia

Want to make the most of your trip to Indonesia? At Alternative Airlines you can
search and buy multiple flights in one simple, secure transaction which is perfect for those who are travelling! With multi-stop flights, you're able to visit as many different islands in Indonesia as want in one trip and make the most out of your time away.

Did you know multi-stop flights are also cheaper than making several individual trips to the same area at different points in your life? If you're interested in seeing multiple destinations in Indonesia then consider booking with Alternative Airlines.

We understand that booking your dream trip can be expensive. That's why we offer you the option the pay the way you want. You can choose to pay later with one of the many flexible payment methods we offer at checkout including Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm, PayPal Credit and more. Read our guide on Buy Now Pay Later to find out more information.