Few destinations can beat Indonesia in terms of variety.
One day, you’re strolling beneath the glistening skyscrapers of a modern city; the next, you’re in a traditional hilltop village savoring delicious gado-gado (tofu, tempeh, and vegetables slathered in a creamy peanut sauce).
From climbing the freezing-cold summit of a puffing volcano to trekking through tropical rainforests in search of orangutans or tigers, Indonesia offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. Where else can you salute the sun at sunrise and then surf a world-class barrel back to a secluded beach at sunset?
While roughly half of all international tourists land in Bali, the nation boasts an array of enticing experiences that go beyond this famous island. From Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi to the frontier islands of West Papua and Borneo, here are the top places to visit on a trip to Indonesia.
1. Jakarta, Java
Best city for art and history
There’s no better place to grasp the rich tapestry of this vast nation than its capital, Jakarta. Home to more than 10 million residents, it’s bustling, traffic-clogged, and sprawls over nearly 700 sq km (270 sq miles). It’s also home to the nation’s finest restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and captivating museums.
Take time to browse the collections in the Museum Nasional (for history), Galeri Nasional (for classical art), and MACAN (for modern and contemporary art). From the Dutch colonial buildings of the Kota Tua neighborhood to the modern skyscrapers of the Golden Triangle, the city is a study in contrasts and a crossroads of cultures and cuisines.
2. Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan, Borneo
Best place to see orangutans
If you want to see orangutans, Borneo is one of the last places on earth where these incredible apes still thrive. Travelers eager for guaranteed orangutan sightings flock to Tanjung Puting National Park, a coastal tropical swamp forest that resembles what much of southern Borneo looked like a few decades ago.
Most visitors hire liveaboard boats to travel up the Sekonyer River to feeding stations in the rainforest and Camp Leakey, the iconic rehabilitation center deep in the jungle.
3. Raja Ampat, West Papua
Best spot for snorkeling and diving
Raja Ampat was once an under-the-radar destination favored by adventurous scuba divers, but the allure of its pristine waters and rich marine biodiversity has captured the attention of many. Located off the coast of West Papua, this archipelago resembles a paradise with its lush green islands, tranquil lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs.
Raja Ampat is home to unique wildlife, including prismatic birds-of-paradise that dance through the trees each morning. Visitors often stay in homestays along the beach, which offer a chance to learn about West Papua’s distinctive culture.
4. Ubud, Bali
Best city for wellness and culture
With rice paddies cascading down palm-lined hills, Ubud stands as Bali’s most captivating city. Visitors can explore the Monkey Forest, participate in yoga sessions, admire art at the local museums, or shop for high-quality local products. In the evenings, many enjoy performances at local temples, showcasing the enchanting Legong ballets and captivating Kecak fire dances.
5. Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggara
Best place for extraordinary wildlife encounters
Komodo National Park covers the islands of Komodo, Padar, and Rinca, which serve as habitat for the famed Komodo dragons—ancient reptiles that can grow up to 3m in length. The chance to encounter these fascinating creatures lures thousands of visitors each year.
6. Borobudur and Yogyakarta, Java
Best locales for Indonesian history
Indonesia boasts Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist structure, characterized by its nine tiers and 2,672 intricate bas relief panels. This monumental World Heritage Site is set amidst lush rice paddies near Yogyakarta, an important educational and cultural hub.
7. Tana Toraja, Sulawesi
Best destination for cultural traditions
The dramatic landscape of Tana Toraja is genuinely captivating, but the true allure lies in the region’s rich traditions. The Torajan people maintain unique customs, and their elaborate funeral rites and traditional houses add to the region’s charm.
8. Kerinci Valley, Sumatra
Best area for hiking
Home to Southeast Asia’s tallest volcano, Gunung Kerinci towers over this idyllic valley. This region, part of Kerinci Seblat National Park, offers opportunities for hiking, swimming beneath waterfalls, and observing rare wildlife, including the critically endangered Sumatran tiger.
9. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java
Best place for stunning views
Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park features five majestic volcanoes in proximity. The striking Gunung Bromo is the centerpiece, surrounded by otherworldly landscapes, making it a popular spot for sunrise treks.
10. The Gili Islands, Lombok
Best destination for beach parties
The Gili Islands, off the coast of Lombok, are celebrated for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a lively atmosphere. Originally a haven for backpackers, these islands now host a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious beachfront cabanas.
Indonesia offers a wealth of natural beauty and diverse cultural experiences, making it an essential destination for travel enthusiasts seeking adventure and culture.
