Top 25 Hiking Trails in Indonesia: Explore Volcanoes, Jungles & Waterfalls

Indonesia boasts some of the most breathtaking hikes featuring smoking volcano craters, stunning waterfalls, lush jungles, and unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. This island nation is home to 400 volcanoes, more than any other country in the world, with many accessible for hiking enthusiasts.

Best Hikes In Indonesia

1. Mount Bromo (East Java)

Mount Bromo is a stunning volcano hike in East Java, offering breathtaking views of a volcanic cluster and an active crater. To reach Bromo effortlessly, fly to Malang or Surabaya and opt for a day tour.

The tour allows time to witness the sunrise, enjoy a jeep ride in the sea of sand, and hike to the crater. Although hiking to the main viewpoint at Mount Bromo requires minimal effort, a short yet steep trek up concrete stairs is necessary to see the smoking crater up close.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

2. Kawah Ijen (East Java)

The Kawah Ijen volcanic crater lake is renowned for being the world’s largest acid lake and its striking ‘blue fire’ phenomenon visible at night. Accessible from Bali, most visitors partake in overnight tours from the island or combine it with Mount Bromo tours.

The hike to Kawah Ijen is steep but clearly defined, with a total time of about 1.5 hours, making it suitable for moderate hikers. Early starts enhance the chances of seeing the blue fire, but those wishing to avoid the midnight trek can still enjoy the breathtaking views at sunrise.

Difficulty: Moderate

3. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (East Java)

The Tumpak Sewu waterfall is famous for its stunning cascade resembling multiple waterfalls tumbling into a jungle ravine. The hike to admire the falls from below takes about 20 minutes, requiring caution due to bamboo steps that can be slippery.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

4. Kabut Pelangi Waterfall (East Java)

Less known than Tumpak Sewu, the Kabut Pelangi waterfall features a scenic hike of about 45 minutes one way. The trail is easy to moderate but can be challenging due to occasional overgrowth after the rainy season.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

5. Sikunir Hill (Central Java)

Known as the ‘Abode of the Gods’, the Dieng Plateau offers a stunning sunrise view over Mount Sundoro, with Sikunir Hill being a popular spot. A short hike of 30-45 minutes leads to the top, providing beautiful scenery even in foggy weather.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

6. Stone Garden Citatah (West Java)

Visit the Stone Garden Citatah in West Java, where unique limestone formations and a bat cave await exploration. The park is accessible from Bandung city and features easy walking paths through the garden.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

7. Curug Cikanteh Waterfall (West Java)

Located within the Ciletuh Geopark, Curug Cikanteh is a dramatic waterfall accessible via a 15-minute drive and a short hike. The site offers picturesque views and is perfect for a day trip.

Difficulty: Easy

8. Mount Dukono (North Maluku)

As a spectacular active volcano on Halmahera island, Mount Dukono provides a challenging hike for adventurous travelers. While it’s possible to tackle this hike in one day, many prefer to camp for a couple of days to soak in the stunning views.

Difficulty: Hard

9. Kelimutu Lakes (Flores)

The Kelimutu National Park features unique volcanic lakes that change colors, offering stunning views for visitors. The hike is suitable for all ages, making it an enjoyable experience for families.

Difficulty: Easy

10. Komodo Island (Komodo)

Home to the famous Komodo dragons, the Komodo National Park offers guided treks across its islands. Visitors can experience these majestic creatures in their natural habitat through flat, accessible trekking paths.

Difficulty: Easy

11. Padar Island (Komodo)

Though small, Padar Island features a popular viewpoint showcasing dramatic coastlines. A 20-40 minute hike up a steep path rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramas of three colored beaches.

Difficulty: Easy

12. Bukit Holbung (North Sumatra)

Offering breathtaking views of Lake Toba, Bukit Holbung presents an easy hike with options for a short walk or a more challenging ascent to the hilltop. The rolling green hills create a picturesque landscape.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

13. Bukit Lawang (North Sumatra)

Bukit Lawang is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, located on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. Here, trekkers can spot orangutans and a variety of jungle animals.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

14. Sipiso Piso Waterfall (North Sumatra)

With its stunning 120-meter waterfall, Sipiso Piso is a must-visit while exploring Lake Toba. A 30-40 minute hike leads to the base for spectacular views.

Difficulty: Easy

15. Batu Baginda (Belitung)

The Batu Baginda hike may be short, but it rewards participants with remarkable views from atop a massive granite boulder.

Difficulty: Easy

16. Balancing Rock (Belitung)

This easy hike leads you to a giant granite boulder called the balancing rock, just a 10-minute walk from the road. It’s ideal for photography opportunities and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Difficulty: Easy

17. Mount Karangetang (Siau)

Mount Karangetang is a stunning volcano in North Sulawesi. Known for regular eruptions, trekking here requires caution but also promises breathtaking views and a unique experience.

Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

18. Tangkoko National Park (North Sulawesi)

Tangkoko National Park is a fantastic location for trekking in lush jungle while observing unique wildlife. Guided walking tours offer insights into this 8,700-hectare park, known for its biodiversity.

Difficulty: Easy

19. Mount Lokon (North Sulawesi)

Mount Lokon presents a moderate hike with rewarding views from its crater. While it’s not overly strenuous, having a guide can facilitate navigation through its lush landscape.

Difficulty: Moderate

20. Rammang Rammang Village (South Sulawesi)

Rammang Rammang Maros is a scenic village surrounded by karst mountains. This area, featuring prehistoric cave art and stunning landscapes, offers an easy trek through its trails.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

21. Mount Batur (Bali)

Mount Batur is arguably the most famous hike in Indonesia, popular among tourists. The trek typically lasts 2-4 hours roundtrip and offers unique cooking experiences at the summit using volcanic heat.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

22. Mount Agung (Bali)

Rising to 3,142 meters, Mount Agung is a challenging and rewarding climb offering stunning views at the crater rim.

Difficulty: Hard

23. Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali)

Known for its twin streams, the Sekumpul waterfall offers one of the most scenic hiking experiences in Bali, showcasing spectacular jungle views along the way.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

24. Kelingking Beach (Bali)

The Kelingking Cliff is a must-see for anyone visiting Bali, offering a challenging hike down steep terrain to a beautiful beach below.

Difficulty: Moderate

25. Mount Rinjani (Lombok)

As one of the epic treks in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani requires a local guide and is well-known for its varying routes and stunning views. Many opt for 2 to 5-day trekking packages to fully experience its beauty.

Difficulty: Hard

Thank you for exploring this list of the best hikes in Indonesia! We have merely scratched the surface, as the country offers countless opportunities to discover majestic volcanoes, waterfalls, and jungles. Happy travels as you embark on your hiking adventures in this stunning archipelago!

When Is The Best Time To Visit?

The best time to explore Indonesia hinges on your preferences:

• ☁ Rainy season (November to April): Hot and humid weather can be expected, yet the crowd levels drop. Waterfalls are lively, and landscapes are vibrantly green.
• ☀ Dry season (May to August): Enjoy milder temperatures, making this the ideal time for hikes and island hopping. However, expect larger tourist crowds.

No matter your travel date, Indonesia promises splendid sights and unforgettable moments!