Backpacking
Indonesia
Imagine if you mastered everything you needed before backpacking Indonesia. Well, since you landed here you are on the right path (Give yourself a hearty pat on the back).
By the time you get to the bottom of this post, you will have in-depth insights that will significantly improve your travels in Indonesia.
A lot of travelers get intimidated by the sheer size of the country, I mean there are over 17,000 islands in Indonesia.
Wait, what did you say? How many islands in Indonesia?
Yep, 17,000 I.S.l.A.N.D.S! Over 300 different spoken languages and hundreds of different cultures, from the small water tribes like the Bajo to the Javanese people who make up a majority of the population.
There are a lot of awesome experiences withlocals in Indonesia.
Are you starting to see why people find backpacking Indonesia daunting? It makes my head spin just thinking about it!
After reading the last, excellently written paragraph (*cough) you might be asking yourself. Where do I start? Is backpacking Indonesia even possible?
Yes! And by the bottom of this page, all your stress and worries will fade.
I’ve spent around 5 months traveling in Indonesia. Much of that time I’ve explored the tourist hotspots but I’ve also spent a good amount of time venturing off the beaten path.
Being such a massive country it is impossible to cover it all in one blog post, and anyone claiming to do so is trying to sell you something.
But this guide to Indonesia will go over everything a traveler needs to know.
We will go in detail on cost and budgets, the best places to go, awesome things to see and do, what to expect, apps, safety, packing, helpful phrases, and much more!
So what are you waiting for, become a guru of traveling Indonesia?
Explore The Post
Table of Contents
Why Go Backpacking in Indonesia
The first word that comes to mind when I think of Indonesia is diversity, and no two cultures or islands feel exactly alike.
Actually, some islands feel like they are a completely different country. Yet the welcoming people, stunning scenery, legendary beaches, and delicious food remain consistent across the entire country.
It is an exhilarating country, and while Bali is awesome, there is much, much more to Indonesia that what many tourists actually see.
For travelers who love wandering off the tourist trail, you’ll fit right at home in Indonesia! There are over 2,000 inhabited islands across the country. And, good news for you, most of them are far from the well-beaten tourist trail.
This leaves plenty of room to blaze your own trail and create your own adventures miles away from the throngs of other travelers. (P.S. If you find anywhere awesome shoot me a message!)
Wildlife in Indonesia is awesome. Watching an imposing Komodo Dragon patrol the beach will make your jaw drop, while simultaneously making you fight an urge to run back to the boat and hide.
And seeing Orangutans swinging from trees like they are overweight ginger pole vaulters will leave you speechless. The wildlife of Indonesia is one of the major highlights of the country and it has made for some of my most memorable moments.
The wild array of wildlife, landscape, and cultures make Indonesia an unforgettable place!
Indonesia Itinerary For 2 Week to a Month
So now that you have a good idea of how much money a trip to Indonesia will cost the next obvious thing is where should you go?
In a little bit we will go over each destination in detail, but for the moment lets take a look at some sample Indonesia itineraries that will help you plan your backpacking Indonesia route.
Backpacking Indonesia 2 Weeks Itinerary
If you have 10 -14 days to explore Indonesia then sticking around Bali will give you the most bang for your buck.
Kuta – (2 days at the start / 2 days in the end): With only a couple weeks I would start and end the trip in a little luxury so I would go for a nice beach resort in Kuta. (Canggu has a lot of options). Spend your time in Kuta learning to surf, partying, shopping, and more.
Ubud – (3 days): Next, I would head to Ubud for the natural scenery. After 2/3 days in Ubud doing things like sunrise at Mt. Batur, doing some yoga, visiting Ubud Palace, the art museum, and exploring the monkey forest.
Gili T or Lombok – (2/3 days): If you go to Gili T then I would focus my time on snorkeling, or diving. Lombok I would spend my time hiking seeing things like Lake Segara Anak and Mount Rinjani.
Backpacking Indonesia 3 Weeks to 1 Month Itinerary
If I had three weeks to explore Indonesia then I recommend starting in Java and working your way over to Bali and flying home from there.
Jakarta – (3/4 days) Jakarta is a typically Southeast Asian city so I would only plan on spending on 1 day in the city and then use the other two for day trips to places like Thousand Island.
Tanjung Putting – (3/4 days) Next I would head deep into the jungles of Borneo to spy on the “humans of the forest” (Orangutans) via boat. Boat trips range from 2 to 3 days. So this really depends on how much you want to monkey around. ( I make no apologies for the pun).
Bali – (7-8 days) Ah yes, Bali. I would spend a week in exploring Bali having adventures like surfing, yoga, sightseeing temples, and more. Then I would use Bail as a home base for the rest of this Indonesia Itinerary. )
Komodo National Park – (3/4 days) Komodo is much more than just the layer for dragons. The national park is full of jaw-dropping views, remote islands, pink beaches and more. It is one of my favorite spots in the entire country. Here you can snorkel or learn to scuba (manta point is awesome), get the newest photo fab at the top of Padar Island, or try your luck surrounded by Komodo Dragons.
Gili T- (2/3 days) Towards the end of the trip I would plan a few relaxing day on Gili T.
Wakatobi – (3 days) If you want to venture out off the main tourist spots then head to Wakatobi and Hoga island for deserted beaches, scuba diving, and water tribes.
Is Indonesia Cheap to Travel?
In some ways, Indonesia is cheaper than backpacking other countries in Southeast Asia, yet some things cost a little more. For example accommodation, food, and sightseeing are extremely cheap when compared to countries like Thailand.
But on the other hand, you’ll spend more money flying between the different islands than you would busing around other nearby countries.
For example, on my last trip to Indonesia (which lasted about a month) I took over ten flights, between different islands. However, if you are on a super tight budget your best bet is to stick to the main islands like Java, Bali, and Sumatra.
This will help lower your budget by limiting the number of flights.
You can easily sightsee around these islands by motorbike, bus, or tour.
Personally, I would suggest budgeting a little extra to give myself wiggle room to wander from the tourist track. The way I see it is that the cheaper price on all the other travel essentials helps balance out the cost of the flights
Recommended Budget for Travelers
Ok, so to answer the question “Is Indonesia cheap to travel?”, we have to get into daily budget.
Indonesia has a lot of options and prices vary drastically.
You can stay in a hostel dorm for as little as 4-5 USD a night or rent a luxury villa on the beach that will set you back over $100.
I prefer saving money and staying in hostels rather than splurge at resorts and hotels are some of the cheapest in Southeast Asia.
Food is another area that is cheap! You can get awesome meals for as little as 3-5 USD.
Backpacking Indonesia Budget
| STYLE | SLEEPING | EATING | GETTING AROUND | SIGHTSEEING | DAILY $ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | $5-$8 | $5 | $3-$6 | $12-$22 | $25-$41 |
| Flashpacker | $8-$16 | $15 | $12 | $22-$33 | $49-$70 |
| Living Large | $100+ | $35 | $25 | $33+ | $199+ |
Budget for Adventures
Indonesia is a land of fun and exciting adventures. From real life dragons to beautiful jungle hikes. From sweeping vistas to underwater worlds there are an countless adventures waiting for you in Indonesia.
Cost of Adventures in Indonesia
1 Day Komodo Island Tour: $150
3 Dives in Komodo National Park : $112
1 Day Trip Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour: $88
Bukit Lawang (Orangutan Boat and Trek): : $61-$300
Wakatobi Scuba Diving: $120-$190
Bali Surf Camp : $220
Best Time to Visit Indonesia
Indonesia has two dominant seasons; dry, and you guessed it… wet. One perk is that the temperature always sits between 70-90 degrees year round! Far from cold, and never too hot.
Dry Season (May – October): The sun is always shining and without any rain, it feels hotter than the thermostat reads.
Wet Season (October – April): I love rainy seasons because they cool everything down, and the storm clouds do a nice job of blocking out that harsh Southeast Asian sun. When you mention a wet season most people picture a nonstop monsoon for months on end. However, most days it only rains a few hours.
But occasionally, there are massive downpours that will last for days. If your traveling in the rainy season then make sure you come equipped with the right travel gear.
Peak Tourist Season: The summer months are the biggest tourist season for Indonesia. This means slightly higher prices (starting in May) and larger crowds.
Off Season: Surprise, surprise the wet season is the low tourist season in Indonesia. However, it is my personal favorite time to visit, and not just because the prices are low and I am cheap. There are fewer crowds, and even though I’m also a tourist, less waiting in line and smaller crowds are always a plus. Of course, if you venture away from the hotspots you can escape the crowds all year round.
Places to Visit in Indonesia
Indonesia has everything a backpacker could want!
From remote islands to islands ruled by dragons, you can find anything and everything in Indonesia.
But with so many islands to choose from where should you go?
Let’s look at some of the best places to visit when backpacking Indonesia.
Backpacking Bali
Obviously, Bali has to come first. Right!? Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia. Backpackers, expats, and nomads flock here to do their own “Eat, Pray, Love” thing, drink on the cheap, surf, learn yoga or mix and match some combination of all of them. And we know with great popularity comes great commercialism.
Don’t get me wrong, Bali is definitely worth visiting.
Just make sure to leave your beach bungalow or that bar with the $0.50 drinks and spend some time exploring other things this world-renowned island has to offer.
There are ancient temples, small local fishing villages, rice fields, and other nearby islands to explore.
Outside of the tourist cities, like Kuta, Bali still retains a lot of its local charm and you shouldn’t miss it.
Plus Bali is perfect for surfers. (Check out this Bali surfing guide)
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Kuta: Pudak Sari Unizou Hostel ($15) | Poppies Restaurant ($) | Uluwatu Temple |
| Ubud: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel ($17) | Room 4 Dessert ($) | Monkey Forest |
| Canggu: The Tipsy Gypsy Hostel ($11) | The Local ($) | Mount Batur |
Gili Trawangan
Just a hop, skip, and ferry ride away from Bali lies this tiny island. Now, when I say tiny I mean it. You can bicycle around this island in around an hour. There aren’t even paved roads! Gili Trawangan (Better known as Gili T) has made its name off of scuba/free diving, snorkeling, and partying.
The bad thing about Gili T is everyone tries to sell you drugs. Even walking down the dirt lane, that doubles as the main road around the island, locals whisper “weed”, “Cocaine”, “Meth”.
Drugs are extremely illegal (some even carry the death penalty) and you never know what they have been cut with. My advice is to pass on grass.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Bum ($8) | Pearl Beach Lounge ($) | Diving and Snorkeling |
| My Mate’s Palace ($13) | Night Market ($) | Bike Around the Island |
| White Coconut Cottage ($37) | Diversia Restaurant ($) | Turtle sanctuary on Gili Meno |
Wakatobi
Chances are you’ve never heard of Wakatobi unless you’re a scuba diving junkie.
This beautiful island doesn’t get much attention for western tourist. I didn’t know about it until I was almost there, but I quickly fell in love with Wakatobi.
But their loss is our gain!
This is a perfect island getaway that has all the creature comforts without being touristy.
The locals love visitors, and there are cool things to do like Bajo villages (People who live on the water), sailing, hiking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the pristine and untouched beaches.
A great day trip is Hoga island which is a little more remote and just as beautiful.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Wasabinua ($25) | Wasabinua Resto & Coffee ($) | Hoga Island |
| Patuno Hotel ($40) | WarKop Sombu Dive ($) | Bajau Village |
| Wisma Maharani ($13) | Kopi Paste Coffeeshop ($) | Scuba Diving |
Jakarta
I haven’t seen as much of Jakarta as I should, but from what I’ve seen there isn’t anything that sets it apart from other Southeast Asian capitals.
I’m adding it here because there is a good chance that when flying to Indo you will either land in Jakarta or Bali.
Jakarta is worth spending a couple of days for the food, temples, monuments, and shopping. But chances are this isn’t the reason you spent 20 hours on a plane flying to Indonesia.
There are some good day trips to places like Thousands Island and Bogor. Overall, Jakarta is worth visiting, but don’t dedicate too much of your time to this city, there are better places to visit in Indonesia.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Wonderloft Hostel ($7) | Historia ($) | Thousand Island |
| Six Degrees ($8) | Le Quartier ($) | Taman Mini Indonesia Indah |
| Capsule Hotel Jakarta – Old Batavia ($7) | Mie Chino Pasar Santa ($) | Bogor |
Lombok
Lombok has risen in popularity in the last few years. Sitting right next to Gili T, this massive island is a haven for those seeking to escape the party crowd that runs amuck on the other islands.
I always imagine that Lombok is what Bali was like before the massive wave of tourism hit.
The whole island still has a lot of its local charm. Lombok is a haven for nature lovers and surfers. The major site on Lombok is the stunning Mount Rinjani, this active volcano is one of the best sites in the entire country.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Pipes Hostel ($9) | Plecing Kangkung ($) | Tiu Kelep Waterfall |
| Botchan Hostel ($9) | Sate Rembiga ($) | Gili Air |
| Bidara Cottage ($18) | Ashtari Lounge ($) | Mount Rinjani |
Ubud
This Balinese town retains a lot more of its culture than Kuta. It is popular for its landscape, yoga schools, and holy sites. Over the years, Ubud has gotten the reputation as a hippie hotspot, and to a degree that’s true.
But Ubud is also an awesome home base for motorbike trips and outdoor adventures.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Pondok Permata Homestay ($18) | LUXE Barbeque & Grill ($) | Ubud Palace |
| PADI Backpackers House ($7) | Balinese Home Cooking ($) | Monkey Forest Road |
| Cahyatika House & Spa ($50) | Warung Pondok Madu ($) | Yoga Lessons |
Kuta
Kuta, the closest city from the airport in Bali, is known for its surf spots, alleyway markets, and shopping.
If none of that piques your interest then you will want to pass through Kuta as quickly as possible.
However, if it sounds like your idea of a good time then Kuta is an absolute blast.
Start the night at Sky Garden which has an all you can eat buffet and all you can drink beer for a couple of hours every night, next stumble to Alley Cats for some Vodka red bulls, and a few hours later use your new found Vodka red bull energy to rush back to Sky Garden for a free hour to cocktails!
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| Kuta-M-Boutique Hostel Legian ($8) | Crumb & Coaster ($) | Kuta Beach |
| Puri Rama Hostel ($7) | Warung Indonesia ($) | Sky Garden |
| Cara Cara ($19) | Johnny Tacos ($) | Uluwatu temple |
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is famed for all the great things to do around the city. The three biggest attractions are the epic volcano of Mt. Merapi and the incredible temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.
This Javanese city carries an air of tradition and it is a great place to shop for authentic souvenirs.
The locals make excellent hand made crafts and leather goods and throughout the city, you can explore the historic palace, bathhouse, and fort.
Where to…
| SLEEP | EAT | SIGHTSEE |
|---|---|---|
| OtU By OstiC House ($8) | Abhayagiri Restaurant ($) | Mt. Merapi |
| Nextdoor Homestay ($15) | Gubug Makan Mang Engking Soragan Castle ($) | Borobudur |
| Bhumi Hostel ($5) | Bakmi Jowo Mbah Gito ($) | Prambanan |
Best Things to do in Bali
I’ve months traveling Indonesia, having epic experiences, and I’ve still only done a fraction of the things that the country has to offer. The country is so diverse and also so many various and thrilling adventures that the country warrants years of travel.
Sadly, most of us don’t have years to wander Indonesia ( I mean, there is a whole lot of world out there to see, right?)
But here is a list of some of the best things to do when backpacking Indonesia.
Face A Dragon (Komodo National Park)
Komodo National Park is full of lush jungles, and beaches, but it is also home to one of the most intimidating creatures I’ve ever seen, the Komodo Dragon. These dragons don’t look too frightening while laying down staying cool in the dirt (which seems to be how they spend most of their time).
But when you see one patrolling the beach, its massive torso swinging side to side with every step, its alert eyes taking in everything while projecting an air of confidence, that practically borders arrogance, and the poisonous droll hanging from its mouth. Well, then it is an entirely different story.
Wild Komodo Dragons are an intense experience that ONLY Indonesia can provide. The creatures hold a certain amount of beauty in their own lizardy, I will destroy you, way and you don’t need to stress too much as you will always have a guide to protect you from death by dragon.
Komodo is one of the coolest outdoor adventures you can have in Indonesia.
RAJA AMPAT ISLANDS
Scuba diving pros and wannabes listen up!
Raja Ampat Islands are a must when backpacking Indonesia. Unbelievably scenic, these islands are home to crystal clear water and epic underwater wildlife. The diving in Raja Ampat is some of the best in the entire country (which means it is some of the best in the entire world)
There are liveaboard for divers, or if you are just looking for a relaxing beach holiday there are some great resorts as well.
Things to Do in KOMODO NATIONAL PARK
Komdo Scuba Dive Courses ($165+) | 3 Day Island Hopping Tour ($265) | 2 Day Bali to Komodo Adventure ($235)
Orangutan Watching in Tanjung Putting
While Komodo is awesome, I think my favorite wildlife adventure is Orangutan watching in Bukit Lawang. This animal sanctuary located on the humongous island of Sumatra (Or Borneo if you prefer) can only be reached by overnight boat.
Wild to the region these massive “humans of the forest” are as playful as they are beautiful, and this is one journey worth the time and effort.
The park rangers, whose primary job is to protect the Orangutan, set out food at certain spots so you are practically guaranteed a good look at my fellow ginger friends.
While they sit and eat enough bananas to wipe bananas splits off the Baskin Robbins menu forever, you’ll be able to snap some photos and bask in awe at these incredible creatures.
Orangutan Adventures
Wilderness & Orangutan ($220) |3D2N Houseboat in Tanjung Puting ($265) | 3D2N Orangutan Klotok & Dayak ($342)
Boat to Bukit Lawang
If I sold you on the Orangutan sanctuary above then you have zero choices but embark on this voyage. The 2-day boat ride ( 1 day there and 1 day back) to get to Bukit Lawang is an adventure in itself.
The jungle envelopes you as the boat slowly churns down the narrow river channels. From the deck you’ll see hundreds of monkeys running through the trees, my favorite is the beer belly Proboscis Monkeys and small gators on the water’s edge, or are they crocodiles (I always get those two mixed up).
At night you sleep under mosquito netting while the steady rocking of the boat slowly lures you to sleep.
This boat trip is fun, exciting, and shows off some parts of Indonesia you can’t see any other way.
Visit a Bajo Tribe Floating Village
While there are a number of these villages throughout Indonesia I’ve only visited the Bajo people, off the coast of Wakatobi. As boated towards the village hundreds of flying fish skimmed above the water in an unforgettable display. There are also Dolphins that live around the area.
The Bajo are people who live on tall houses built on stilts in the water.
At low tide, they walk out to collect sea urchins and other sea creatures for food or trading. The people are poor, yet happy, welcoming, but not used to foreigners, and it is one of the most photogenic places I’ve been in all Indonesia.
Borobudur Temple
Let’s cut to the chase, Indonesia has ALOT of temples. Although no temple in the country compares to Borobudur.
This three-tier temple dates back over 1,000 years and is one of the greatest/biggest Buddhist monuments in the world.
This UNESCO site draws everyone from instagramers to historians.
And is worth visiting, even if you’re “templed out”.
Tickets & Tour
Borobudur Temples’ Tickets ($25) | Sunrise and Temples Tour from Yogyakarta ($41)
Uluwatu Temple
Dozens of playful monkeys roam around these temple grounds (watch out they steal shit).
The major attraction is the sunset Kecak Dance which is a vibrant Balinese Hindu dance/storytelling of the Monkey King. It is a scenic temple sitting on the coastal cliffs of Bali that takes on an amber glow at sunset.
This area is also popular among surfers and there are some great surf spots along the coast.
UluWatu Dance
Kecak Dance, Dinner, and Transportation ($21)
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or known among the locals as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, is a nature reserve that is filled with wild long-tailed monkeys.
Deep in the thick forest of this sanctuary is the Hindu temple of Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, or better known as the Great Temple of Death ( insert ominous noise here). Thick jungle and a death temple! Is anyone else getting an Indiana Jones vibe?
Other creatures, besides monkeys, live in this forest sanctuary.
There are over 80 different species of birds, lizards, and other small forest creatures call this place home.
Monkey AROund on These Tours
Bali Swing Sacred Monkey Forest and Volcano Day Tours ($8+) | Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest ($38)
Bunaken
Bunaken is a good spot for those looking to explore the scenery and nature of Indo!
It is an incredible island with a stunning marine park. Adventure junkies will fall in love with the world-class diving, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
Explore Bunaken
Bunaken National Park Snorkeling Trip ($113)
Mount Batur
If you’ve ever looked at a postcard of Indonesia then there is a good chance you’ve already seen Mount Batur.
This is the most iconic site in the country. And with good reason. The views of this active volcano are epic! The best time to head here is at sunrise.
Batur Awesome Sunrise TOur
Batur Volcano Sunrise & Trekking ($35+)
Padar
I’m not going to lie. I wish I could keep this island a secret, and have it all to myself. But sharing is caring, and what can I say, I love you guys! Without a doubt, Padar is the most incredible spot in Indonesia that I have visited. This little island lies in Komodo National Park, yes there are dragons on Padar.
To say Padar is beautiful is an understatement. The island looks like you stepped into Jurassic Park. And one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The crowning jewel of the island is the viewpoint that takes in half the island, and surrounding ocean.
There isn’t a lot to do on Padar other than taking in the beauty, a couple of short hikes, and photography. But it is 100% worth the visit!
Tours that Go to Padar
Komodo island Tour hopping – Speed Boat ($150)
Yoga in Ubud
Udud is to free spirits what skydiving is to the adrenaline junkie.
This hippie hangout is famed for its yoga and laid back lifestyle.
One good thing about Ubud is that it takes you away from the beach resorts of Kuta and into the lush green landscape of Bali. It is known for arts, culture, spas, and yoga. If you want to lay back and chill then Udud is your place!
Surfing in Bali
Bali has become a surfer’s paradise in Indonesia. Even if you are not a pro surfer it is a great place to learn and hone your skills. ( I caught my first wave on Kuta Beach).
Boards are cheap and easy to rent, and the waves tend to have a nice break.
There are tons of spots all around the island that continue to draw thousands of surfers to Bali each year.
Bali is one of the best as well as the most visited Island in Indonesia. This does mean more tourists visiting each year.
Popular Adventures in Bali
8 Day Island Hopping Surf Camp (Popular $1,105) | Nusa Lembongan Scuba Dive Courses ($65+)
Snorkel in Gili T
Gili T is known for diving and freediving. However, I passed on both because I couldn’t stop snorkeling. It was that epic. There are a variety of fish, and if you are lucky sea turtles.
Much of this marine life is right off the beach so even if you’re not a strong swimmer you can have a good time.
Scuba Dive
Whenever I write about Southeast Asia I spend a lot of time telling people to Scuba dive. Maybe because it’s such a serene and life-changing adventure.
Perhaps it is because it is extremely affordable. Or maybe it is because this region has some of the best diving in the entire world. And Indonesia has the top diving spots of all Southeast Asia. If you are looking for a new adventure, I can’t think of anything better than learning scuba diving in Indo.
Liberty Wreck
This wreck dive is the most popular dive spot on Bali. The remains are covered in coral and lots of reef fish inhabit the area. The wreck starts at 5 meters under the water so it is also a good place for snorkeling.
Divers can go down 30 meters to check out other areas of the sunken ship.
Enjoy some Luxury
There is nothing wrong with indulging in a little luxury in Indonesia. I mean, we all deserve a couple days away from loud hostel dorm rooms, so whenever you can splurge without blowing your bank account to rubble take advantage of it.
Imagine your staying at a luxury resort, every morning you head to your private pool for breakfast and a mimosa as you take in the sweeping view of the surrounding jungle.
While I wouldn’t do this too often our you will blow your backpacking Indonesia budget, but every once in a while treat yourself.
Lake Toba
Welcome to the largest volcanic lake in the world! This is a great place to escape the chaos and have a few fun and relaxing adventures. There are nearby are ancient villages, hot springs, and road trips that make excellent day trips.
Lake Sidihoni
This lake is part of Lake Toba, but a little trickier to get too. However, the work is worth it as this is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can explore a lake inside a lake (Yes, you read that right).
Pink Beach of Komodo
The pink beach isn’t the best place I’ve been to Indonesia. The day I visited it only had a slight reddish tint. However, I might have just visited on a bad day. Microscopic organisms share this beach with throngs of tourist. Our tiny friends emit a red pigment that gives the entire beach a pink hue. 2
Even though the beach wasn’t as red as my ginger curls, the water has great visibility and the curious schools of fish make this a great spot for snorkeling! And the timeless views encapsulate the unparalleled beauty nature.
Bogor
Bogor offers an escape from the bustling city streets of Jakarta. The markets and stores are less hectic. Riverside walks, cycling, gushing waterfalls, and rock climbing replaces the loud noises of crowds and traffic jams.
These lush botanical gardens host hundreds of species of orchids as well as other plant life.
Blue Flames at Sulfuric Lake Ijen
Located on the island of Java, this otherworldly lake contains some of the highest concentrations of sulfur gases and molten sulfur of any lake in the world. These flammable gases come into contact with oxygen they burst into deep blue flames.
Ulun Danu Beratan
This iconic temple located high in the mountains showcases the beauty of Bali at its finest.
Sitting on a small plateau this towering temple overlooks the scenic Lake Beratna. No trip backpacking in Indonesia is complete without visiting Bali, and no trip to Bali is complete without seeing at Ulun Danu Beratan.
Tamansari Water Castle
This water castle which is often referred to as the garden of Sultan Yogyakarta, is a well-maintained complex.
It served many purposes through its long history such as a vacation home or a place where the Sultans family would be taken to be kept safe.
It is a massive complex, with long halls, and enormous buildings, all of which are kept in pristine condition.
Prambanan Temple
This massive temple complex is made up of multiple spire towers that jut up into the sky. Originally a Hindu temple built to honor the gods.
With shrines dedicated to Shive that contains a huge statue of the god/goddess.
Because of its unique design, Prambanan has become one of the most visited temples in Indonesia.
Liang Bua Cave
This is the spot where they discovered Flores Man. These are hobbit sized humanoids were once thought to be distant relatives of humans.
Although, new research shows that they might be an entirely different species. There is a small museum, and although it is a little out of the way it is still kind of cool.
Mount Rinjani
Mount Rinjani is one of the highlights of visiting Lombok. From the top of the mountain, you get grand views of the crater filled lake.
But do not be deceived, you are actually looking into the eye of an active volcano. Mount Rinjani is hotspot for day hikers and photographers.
Tanah Lot
Lesser-known that most of Indonesia sites is Tanah Lot. A strange rocky formation and home to Pura Tanah Lot.
Tanah Lot, along the coast of Bali, has beautiful sunsets, crashing waves. The temple around 30 km from Denpasar, and the temple dates back hundreds of years.
It’s a scenic spot, that’s a favorite of photographers and couples.
Where to Stay in Indonesia
Ah yes, what are the best options for finding the perfect place to retreat too after a long day exploring in Indonesia?
The five bookings sites I use when traveling anywhere in the world are Hostelworld, Booking.com and Tripadvisor, Agoda, and Airbnb ( Save $40 off Airbnb with this link).
I like to mix up my type of accommodation as I go. The majority of the time I stay in hostels and Airbnbs (If you have an Airbnb coupon code you can get some great deals). But every once in a while I will book a hotel to enjoy a little more privacy and luxury.
Let’s look at the average price of accommodation for some of the cities I mentioned above! Of course, if you’re on a super tight budget there’s also couch surfing.
Average Price of Accommodation by City
| HOSTELS | AIRBNB | HOTELS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuta | $9 | $120 (Decent ones for around $20) | $70 |
| Ubud | $7 | $53 ( Some great ones for around $20) | $68 |
| Gili T | $6 | $53 ( A lot of them are only $18!) | $65 |
| Jakarta | $9 | $34 | $60 |
| Yogyakarta | $6 | $36 | $43 |
Getting Around Indonesia
With flights, ferries, buses, and bikes there are numerous ways to get around Indonesia.
However, your options vary depending on where you are as well as where you want to go.
These are the top modes of transport to use when backpacking around Indonesia.
Flights
Where buses are the king of Thailand, flights are the champion of Indonesia. Chances are you will be taking at least a few flights to different islands in the country. Luckily there are some good options for flying around Indonesia cheaply.
The three best budget airlines to use in Indonesia are AirAsia, Citilink, and Lion Air. These bare-bone airlines don’t offer many perks but that is what makes the ticket prices so cheap.
Buses
This mode of transportation isn’t as popular as it is in the rest of Southeast Asia. This could be because bus conditions range wildly depending on companies, and the take forever to reach their destination.
However, buses are a good choice when hopping around the same Island. The best bus network is on Java, with Jakarta, the capital city, being the major bus hub. There aren’t too many bus/ferry combos like you see in countries like Vietnam and Cambodia.
If you’re trying to travel as thrifty as humanly possible then buses/ferries are for you. But it is better to plan these journeys as you go instead of purchasing a combo ticket; sometimes the buses arrive late, and the ferry will leave without you.
Mini Buses
In many ways, Minibusses are more popular than actual tourist buses.
They are always packed and not as comfortable as their big brothers and sisters. But you are trading space and comfort for speed and reliability.
They are slightly more expensive but are usually equipped with A/C, which is a huge perk in the hot season, and get you from A to B quicker than the traditional buses.
Ferries
It should come as no surprise that a country with so many islands has a vast ferry network. There are ferry routes that connect all the major islands of Indonesia. However, these ferries take a lot of time (I’ve seen ferries that take days).
This is a good option if you are traveling to nearby islands, however, I wouldn’t recommend it for long distance travel. Ferry conditions aren’t the best, and because they often oversell tickets you might not get a seat.
Renting A Motorbike
On the bigger islands you will see some travelers embarking on road trips. If you are moving around a lot then this is a fun/cheap adventure that will give you a unique view of the country. Driving in Southeast Asia is crazy so if you are not confident on a bike start somewhere where the traffic isn’t hectic.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is an option if you have an international driving license. I’ve never rented a car in Indonesia so I don’t have too many tips on this mode of travel. But the option is there.
Grab
Uber was a good option for Indonesia. However, Uber’s Southeast Asia operations were taken over by Grab. I’ve haven’t used the service since this happened recently, but I doubt much has changed.
So if you are traveling around a city I would recommend using Grab. You know the price upfront, there is no hassling or arguing, and most of the time these services are cheaper than Tuk Tuks and cabs.
Do you need a Visa for Indonesia?
There is a huge chance that you won’t need to apply for a visa for Indonesia! The country keeps adding more and more countries to the list of visa-free entry.
In 2019 more country have been added and now the list sits at 169 countries that have visa-free travel (meaning you just get a stamp at immigration)
Once you get your passport stamp you have 30 days in Indonesia. Overstaying your visa comes with a hefty fee of 23 USD a day which you have to pay before exiting the country. So make sure you leave before your visa has expired.
169 Countries With Visa Free Travel in Indonesia
- Albania
- Algeria
- Andorra
- Angola
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Belize
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Cape Verde
- Chad
- Chile
- China
- Commonwealth of Dominica
- Comoros
- Costa Rica
- Cote D’Ivoire
- Croatia
- Cuba
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Egypt
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Fiji
- Finland
- France
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Hong Kong SAR
- Hungary
- Iceland
- India
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macau SAR
- Macedonia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mali
- Malta
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Norway
- Oman
- Palau
- Palestine
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Philippines
- Poland
- Portugal
- Puerto Rico
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Island
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and Grenadines
- Suriname
- Swaziland
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Togo
- Tonga
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Turkmenistan
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- U.K.
- United Arab Emirates
- Uruguay
- USA
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
- Vatican City
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Extending Your Visa in Indonesia
Planning on spending more than 30 consecutive days in Indonesia. Well, this is where things start to get a little tricky. Now I know you are thinking “I’ll just extend visa-free entry, right?” Wrong, it is impossible to extend.
So I repeat if you are planning on more than 30 days in Indonesia then do not enter the country visa-free, instead, do one of these two options.
1- Apply for a Visa on Arrival: Instead of going straight through customs follow the signs for Visa on Arrival. This gives you the same 30 days that visa-free entry does but also gives you the option to extend your visa for an extra 30 days.
The downside is that this visa comes with a hefty fee of 35 USD. And you also have to pay another 26 USD at the consulate office when you extend the visa. This makes the total price of 61 USD and gives you a total of 60 days in Indonesia! 61 USD might seem like a lot, and compared to some countries these are expensive visas.
However, when you break it down the price is just over a dollar a day. What a bargain. And as we will see these much cheaper than the next option.
2- Visa Run, Baby: If you are already in Indonesia then a visa run is your only option to stay longer. A visa run, in case you are not familiar with the term, is simply catch the cheapest flight to another country, stay there a few days, and then fly back to Indo. Unless you get a great deal on a flight this is going to cost more than the $61 to buy the visa and extend it.
I should also note that if you do to many visa runs back to back there is a chance immigration will deny you entry into the country.
Money in Indonesia
If you make your bank aware that you’re traveling you shouldn’t have any problems withdrawing money in Indonesia. Like everywhere else in the world there is a surcharge for using ATM’s, Plus whatever international fee your bank might charge. That is why it is important to have a bank account that works for travelers.
Personally, I use Charles Schwab that reimburses ALL the ATM fees. (I’ve literally been traveling with groups of friends that all transfer me their money so I can draw it out for them) .
If you don’t have a bank that gives you back the fees than make sure you plan them into your travel budget. Finding an ATM with the lowest fees is a gamble, and you won’t know the exact fee until you stick your card in, however, fees range from $3 -$8. That is a ton of cash!
Exchange Rate
Everyone’s a millionaire in Indonesia! The coins and bills range from 50 IDR to 100,000 IDR (Around 8 USD).
So plan on carrying around a lot of bills and make sure you have the right travel gear to handle all the coins and bills.
On the right is the current exchange rate for USD to IDR.
Current Exchange USD TO IDR EXCHANGE RATE
Safety Tips For
Traveling in Indonesia
Backpacking in Indonesia is a very safe. But reviewing safety tips is never bad idea.
Protect Yourself Online
VPN’s keep your data safe when connecting to public networks at hotels and cafes.
Identity theft is not fun, neither is someone gaining access to all your logins and credit cards like what happened to my mother in Italy.
I often use BestVPN which lets me know the best VPN on the market right now.
Buy A Lock, Use The Lock
Theft isn’t common in Indonesia, although does can happen.
The most common form of theft is from a hotel room, or other travelers in your hostel dorm. There is an easy, and obvious, way to avoid theft. Lock your stuff up! Another good tip is to not leave your valuables on the table, even if you are sitting right next to it.
For example, don’t leave your phone/wallet sitting on a table while you are eating a meal. You are just creating a target for yourself and there is a chance, a very small chance, that someone will grab your valuables and run.
Methanol Maddness
Methanol is something I am extremely conscious of when drinking in Indonesia.
Especially, at beachside bars on some of the smaller islands. In an effort to save money some bars and nightclubs serve methanol (arak) in mixed drinks.
One traveler many years ago went blind after drinking too much methanol on Gili T (at least that’s the legend), and some people have even died from it. It is best not to F$%@ around with it.
I have definitely been served methanol in Indonesia. A hangover after drinking methanol is like a normal hangover, plus being hit by a truck.
This is why at smaller bars I tend to stick to drinking beer.
Awareness is Key
This isn’t a strictly for traveling Indonesia, rather it is a tip to follow anywhere in the world. Be aware of your surroundings, young grasshopper and trust your gut. If the place your staying gives you a bad vibe, move.
If you get chills thinking about walking down that road, don’t! Be aware and prepared and you’ll never be unpleasantly surprised!
Look out for scams
Every country has scammers, even Indonesia, these scams are always changing and evolving as travelers become aware of them.
Just keep in mind that if it sounds to good to be true, it is.
Another scam to watch out for in Indonesia are money changers.
Double check to make sure they are giving you the right amount before giving them your money.
One way to avoid them is by always booking your day trips, tours, and tickets through reputable companies, hotels, or hostels.
Helpful Indonesian Phrases
Travelers Need to Know
https://youtu.be/SbM1j8TyXYE
I’m always blown away when people don’t put forth a little effort in learning a handful of words and phrases in the local language of the country they are visiting.
It is fun, respectful, and gets you millions of bonus points among the locals!
So what do you need to know?
Let’s look at some important phrases travelers need to know when traveling in Indonesia.
Best Phrases For Traveling Indonesia
Permisi – Excuse Me
Hola – Hello
Berapa harganya? – what does it cost/how much is it?
Sorry – Maaf
Terima kasih (te-ree-ma ka-seeh) – thank you
Ya – Yes
Tidak (ya – tee-dak) – no
Ini apa? – What is this? –
Sama-sama (saa-maa saa-maa) – you’re welcome
Di mana toilet? (dee maa-naa toilet?) – where’s the bathroom?
Bisa tolong saya? – Can you Help me!
Jangan terlalu pedas (jaa-ngan ter-laa-luw pe-dash) – don’t make it too spicy
Enak (e-nak) – delicious
Boleh kurang? (bo-leh koo-rang?) – can I get it for less? (For hagglers)
Tolong (tho-long) – help
Selamat Pagi – Good morning (before 12am)
Selamat Siang – Good after noon (before 6 pm)
Selamat Sore – Good evening (after 6 pm)
Indonesia
Travel Checklist
What the essentials when visiting Indonesia? Let’s go over some of the things you need before backpacking through Indonesia.
Travel Insurance
A lot of travelers view insurance as a scam, trust me it’s not. These people are risking thousands to pinch pennies.
I can’t force you to get travel insurance, nor do I want to. It is 100% your choice, but I urge you to think hard about it.
I’ve saved thousands on hospital bills because I was smart enough to have insurance, and I know tons of other travelers, and bloggers that have as well.
I wouldn’t backpack Indonesia without it. But like I said, the choice is yours.
I always use WorldNomads which offers the best coverage to travelers and has great rates.
You can even get a free quote!
Flight
Yes yes, I know that I am stating the obivious.
You’re best bet for getting to Indonesia is flying from a major travel hub! You can get one way tickets from the USA for under $400! And round trip for somewhere around $500-$600.
I have an entire list of insanely cheap flight tips!
And another blog post about how to use Kayak Explore to your advantage and knock hundreds off your travel budget getting to Indonesia.
Packing List
Alright, so you’ve mastered everything about traveling Indonesia to this point from where to sleep to asking for the toilet, and your ready to pack your bags, hop on a plane, and start island hopping.
You unzip your bag, scratch your head, and realize you’ve no clue what to pack.
Well, let me help you with that as well! These are some pieces of travel gear I always pack when backpacking in Indonesia.
It is important to note that my packing list might not work for you 100% of the time. After all we are all different. But like the pirate code this is more like a “guideline”.
Osprey Farpoint – It’s hard to backpack Indonesia your home away from home! Personally, my weapon of choice is the Osprey Farpoint.
It comes with an day pack, lockable zippers, and a comfy internal frame!
You can check it out on Amazon or REI
- 1- Pair of Jeans
- 5– Shirts
- 5 Pairs of Underwear of Your Choice
- 1 – lifestraw (Or equivalent)
- 2 – Sets of Swim Trunks
- Flip Flops
- 3- Pairs of Socks ( You’ll wear flip flops most of the time)
- 1- Pair of shoes
- 1- Microfiber Towel
- 1- Money Belt
- 1 Light Jacket/Hoodie
- All Necessary Toiletries
- Camera
- Go Pro Hero 7
Dressing Properly in Indonesia
As we briefly touched on, Indonesia is a conservative country and this is reflected in how locals dress. But also in how YOU should dress.
Dress modestly, don’t show your shoulders and cover your legs.
This is more important on islands like Java that are prominently Muslim, rather than the more liberal tourist areas like Bali.
This goes for swimwear as well. Stay away from short shorts and two-piece bikinis.
A good rule of thumb is when in doubt, copy the locals. You’re just a visitor so it is important to be respectful of local customs and values.
Vaccines
Let’s talk shots!
No, not the fun shots you get at your local watering hole. I mean the “why is that needle so big” type of shots.
Luckily you only need the standard “traveling to Asia” shots before heading to Indonesia. These are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies and Poliomyelitis. And if you’re planning on venturing into rural areas then you should also get Hepatitis B, Japanese B Encephalitis.
Malaria – I’ve never worried about Malaria pills when in Indonesia. However, it is a risk in certain parts of the country. If you want to be safe and are heading to one of these areas then Malaria pills are a good idea.
Areas with Malaria – Maluku, Maluku Utara, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Papua, and Papua Barat, Labuan Bajau, Komodo Islands, Kalimantan (Borneo), Nusa Tenggara Barat, Lombok, Sulawesi, and Sumatra.
While it might seem like there are a lot of areas with Malaria it is important to remember that it is mostly in rural areas that you probably aren’t visiting. There is also a low transmission rate.
Indonesia
Etiquette
Make your mamma proud while abroad, impress locals, and leave a positive impression by avoiding these common social mistakes.
Don’t Yell
Talking loud, or showing angry in public is considered extremely rude. So if you have had “one to many” and feel the urge to scream, yell, and run amuck with your friends, then…don’t.
Not only is it poor etiquette but it gives all us travelers a bad name. Also, you find yourself getting angry at anyone from a friend to a merchant who won’t budge on price don’t show you’re anger by being loud.
Don’t Booze up in Public
People tend to ignore this unwritten rule in the major tourist cities like Bail, but you should tell try to follow it.
As we touched upon a few times, Indonesia is diverse and one of the main religions is Islam which, if you didn’t know, frowns heavily on drinking.
While it is technically not illegal to drink in public, outside of tourist hotspots, it isn’t considered polite.
Limit Using Your Left Hand
As a lefty, this is my kryptonite.
Using your left hand to handle money, hand something to someone, or shake hands is considered extremely dirty.
Since the left hand is often considered the bathroom hand. When I am traveling in Indonesia the only thing I try to do with my left hand is eat and only if it is with utensils.
Never Touch A Local on the Head
Like when backpacking Thailand you should never touch an Indonesian person on the top of the head. The head is the most sacred part of the body in Indonesia and touching a local on the head is a massive sign of disrespect.
If you touch someone on the head sincerely apologize immediately.
Tipping is Appreciated
Unlike many other countries in Asia, you SHOULD tip in Indonesia.
However, contrary to the west, where we tip everyone from out barber to drivers, you really only need to tip at restaurants in Indonesia. Standard tipping practice is 5-10%.
Some restaurants tack on the service fee on the check in which case a tip would not be required, although you are welcome to leave some extra coins.
That being said you don’t need to tip bartenders, cafe waiters, taxi drivers, doormen, tour guides, and stylist unless you feel the service was top notch.
Say Thanks ( In Local Language)
Indonesia culture is rooted in politeness.
It doesn’t matter who you are talking too never end a conversation without saying thank you (Preferably in Indonesian).
No one will give you grief if you don’t say thank you. But I’ll wager they will be thinking about it after you have left.
Things to Avoid When
Backpacking Through Indonesia
When traveling across Indonesia there are some things you should try to avoid. These will help you immerse yourself into the culture as well as keep you safe and healthy. .
Avoid Tap Water
Tap water in Indonesia is full of germs and tiny microbes that will wreak havoc on your body, leaving you bathroom bound and sick for a few days. When cooking a lot of travelers have mixed opinions about using tap water. Personally, I think it’s fine to cook with as long as you boil it first.
One habit I use around the world is using tap water when brushing my teeth.
This introduces a limited amount of germs into my system and helps my body built up resistance to them. I’ve never gotten ill using this method, but I also know a lot of other travelers that think I’m crazy for doing it. I
‘m not going to say you should or shouldn’t do this. I’m just throwing the option out there.
Watch Your Step Around the Canang Saris
Walking around, especially near markets, temples, and shops, you’ll see little square baskets made from leaves with flowers inside.
Never take one as a souvenir and avoid stepping on them. Known as canang sari these are Hindu offerings the Balinese people leave to their gods and are meant to show their devotion and self-sacrifice.
As they as offering to their gods you can easily imagine how disrespectful it is to step on them, even if they are already smooshed.
Observe Don’t Affect
Indonesia is a country of remarkable beauty and diverse wildlife. It is important to pay respect to both the country and it’s inhabitants by having as little of an impact on them as possible.
When snorkeling and diving never try to touch the fish or break off a piece of coral. Don’t try to taunt the monkeys or lure them closer for a photo. It is always better to observe rather than effect.
Avoid Drugs
I know we all like to get a little wild when traveling! I love meeting friends, partying, and exploring the nightlife of a different country.
However, as I mentioned a little earlier. Drugs laws in Indonesia are no joke. They pose serious conscienceless for people who violate the law. Including tourist.
Phone &
Internet
If your phone has a sim car and is unlocked then getting phone and internet in Indonesia is as easy as leaving immigration and buying a sim.
Prices affordable for any backpack budget and you can get a few GB of data for around $10.
Another option is T-Mobile which gives you unlimited free data in Indonesia in over 100 other countries. It isn’t the fastest internet but it works!
5 Best Travel Apps for
People Traveling Indonesia
1- Lonely PLanety
This helpful app contains more information than you could ever learn about Indonesia.
The app is full of tips, photos, video, and much more.
2- GOJEK
This awesome app lets you call a motorbike taxi to your doorsteps. These bad boys get you from A to B quick and fast.
GoJek is more than a taxi service! They can even do beer runs, or other deliveries
3- Maps.me
I always recommend Map Me because it is easy to easy, and lets you navigate your surroundings even when you are not connected to WiFi.
4- GrabTaxi
Good in a pinch this app shows you all the open cabs around you. It lets you book a cab and set the pickup point.
5- Xe Currency
XE currency always give you the most update exchange rates. So you can know how much exchanges are ripping you off.
Indonesia:
Fun Facts
You’ve just learned everything you need before traveling in Indonesia. Nice! Let’s look at some fun facts. These are just a few facts that make Indonesia special.
Indonesia has the world’s largest Lizard (Komodo Dragon).
You can touch both hemispheres when traveling Indo.
There are over 130 volcanoes.
There are 8 Unesco Sites in Indonesia.
There is 54,716km of coastline. (Remote beaches anyone?).
The Rafflesia Arnoldi is the worlds largest flower.
It is the largest archipelago in the world.
Lake Toba is the biggest volcanic lake in the world.
Borobudur temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
Indoensia has the 2nd, 3rd, and 6th largest islands in the world.
Jakarta has a population of over 11 million people making it the 13th largest city in the world. .
Indonesia has one of the largest populations in the world with over 261 million people.
139 Million of those people live on Java.
Indonesia:
Reading and Movie List
Ok so we have covered a lot of ground. And now you have a good grasp on how to plan a trip to Indonesia. Let’s end with some ways to get pumped about your upcoming trip.
Here are some great books and move to watch before visiting Indonesia.
Eat Pray Love (Movie and Book): Of course, this is number #1 on the list. In many ways the Bali we see today is a result of this book, and movie. They are masterpieces. And many people flock to Indonesia looking for a similar experience.
You’ll even run into people who will ask… “are you doing the eat, pray love, thing?”
Toute La Beauté Du Monde (Movie): This french film is set in Bail. The title translate to “All the beauty of the world.” So expect to see some of the best landscape from Ubud to stacked terraces at Jatiluqih.
There we go! We just conquered all the things you need to know, you have now mastered this vast country!
Let me know how your backpacking Indonesia trip goes in the comments below!
I have a blogger friend from Indonesia and after reading about all of her adventures there, I have been itching to see it for myself. I especially want to go snorkeling in the clear waters and admire all of the amazing underwater critters. You have laid out a great travel plan for those wishing to backpack around Indonesia.
I would love to do a backpacking trip across Indonesia. I’ve always wanted to see the country. I never thought of backpacking it before though. I think it would be a great way to really get in touch with the vibe of the land.
It is! Indonesia is one of the best countries in Southeast Asia.
I have a blogger friend from Indonesia and after reading about all of her adventures there, I have been itching to see it for myself. I especially want to go snorkeling in the clear waters and admire all of the amazing underwater critters. You have laid out a great travel plan for those wishing to backpack around Indonesia.
Thanks for the comment. Sounds like your friend had a great time. Let me know if you have any questions when planning your trip!
I would love to do a backpacking trip across Indonesia. I’ve always wanted to see the country. I never thought of backpacking it before though. I think it would be a great way to really get in touch with the vibe of the land.
It is! Indonesia is one of the best countries in Southeast Asia.
It’s an awesome guide on Indonesia.Keeping it as a reference for my future trip.
I think backpacking across Indonesia would be awesome. I think it would be a great way to really connect with the locals.
It’s an awesome guide on Indonesia.Keeping it as a reference for my future trip.
I think backpacking across Indonesia would be awesome. I think it would be a great way to really connect with the locals.
The locals are warm and welcoming to travelers!
Excellent points when you travel to Indonesia. I would love to travel and think about nothing else for a week or 2.
Excellent points when you travel to Indonesia. I would love to travel and think about nothing else for a week or 2.
Haha do it!!
Indonesia is always so much fun. I am so tempted to visit again – this time to Wakatobi and Gili and maybe, Lombok. Have done the Komodo circuit and loved the whole adventure around Padar Island. I would not mind going there again. And yes, Indonesia is quite cheap.
Sign me up for the Komodo National Park! There’s so much I would soak in there; I’d love to see the dragons, but the pink beaches sound awesome as well!
Komodo rocks! It’s life stepping into Jurassic Park.
Indonesia is always so much fun. I am so tempted to visit again – this time to Wakatobi and Gili and maybe, Lombok. Have done the Komodo circuit and loved the whole adventure around Padar Island. I would not mind going there again. And yes, Indonesia is quite cheap.
Yes! Indo is awesome. I love Komodo but Wakatobi also holds something special!
I’ve never backpacked anywhere but I’d love too! Indonesia sounds like a great place to start!
Sign me up for the Komodo National Park! There’s so much I would soak in there; I’d love to see the dragons, but the pink beaches sound awesome as well!
Komodo rocks! It’s life stepping into Jurassic Park.
This is such an amazing guide! Thank you!!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for reading!
I’ve never backpacked anywhere but I’d love too! Indonesia sounds like a great place to start!
Do it! Backpacking is the best! And indo is a great country to start with! If it is you’re first time I would start in Bali as it is more tourist friendly.
This is such an amazing guide! Thank you!!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for reading!
I thought when I was younger that I wanted to go backpacking through a bunch of different countries, but now I’m not so sure I could do it.
Backpacking has no age limit! lol. However, Flashpacking is also a good choice.
I thought when I was younger that I wanted to go backpacking through a bunch of different countries, but now I’m not so sure I could do it.
Backpacking has no age limit! lol. However, Flashpacking is also a good choice.
Wow! This is such a great backpacking guide. I have been to Indonesia before. I love their food and culture.
Glad you liked it! Thanks for reading.
We are no longer backpacking. But there were still tips here for us to visit Indonesia. Although when I read 15,000 islands, it seems like a daunting task to choose where to visit. We were sorry we missed Gili T and Lombok on our visit to Bali. Wakitobi is on our list for scuba diving. Thanks for the tips about when to visit. I don’t want the rain or the crowds. So maybe April might be just fine. Thanks for the comprehensive guide and tips.
No problem! Glad you found it helpful. Indo has so much it would take a lifetime to explore. Wakatobi is great! I know you will love it Linda.
Wow! This is such a great backpacking guide. I have been to Indonesia before. I love their food and culture.
Glad you liked it! Thanks for reading.
This is a full-packed article about Indonesian travel. One thing really caught my eyes: living large is $199 a day. This is very interesting to me since at 70 I can no longer backpack. But I think it is too high; I am spending $75 a day doing that in Mexico.
We are no longer backpacking. But there were still tips here for us to visit Indonesia. Although when I read 15,000 islands, it seems like a daunting task to choose where to visit. We were sorry we missed Gili T and Lombok on our visit to Bali. Wakitobi is on our list for scuba diving. Thanks for the tips about when to visit. I don’t want the rain or the crowds. So maybe April might be just fine. Thanks for the comprehensive guide and tips.
No problem! Glad you found it helpful. Indo has so much it would take a lifetime to explore. Wakatobi is great! I know you will love it Linda.
This is a full-packed article about Indonesian travel. One thing really caught my eyes: living large is $199 a day. This is very interesting to me since at 70 I can no longer backpack. But I think it is too high; I am spending $75 a day doing that in Mexico.
Thanks for the comment Carol! On $75 a day in Indo you can live great! The $199 is mostly due to the price of luxury hotels.
Ubud again for me. The Komodo faces are worth a picture. Excellent picture of the beach with pink and blue.
Very well detailed info.
Ubud again for me. The Komodo faces are worth a picture. Excellent picture of the beach with pink and blue.
Very well detailed info.
Thanks! Ubud is pretty special!
Oh my goodness – YES! Backpacking through Bali would be my ultimate goal.
Oh my goodness – YES! Backpacking through Bali would be my ultimate goal.
Yes! Bali has so much going on!
And also, watching the sunrise at Mt. Batur! Sounds so beautiful!
I was telling my niece she should so backpacking in Europe because it sounds like a fun time!
I was telling my niece she should so backpacking in Europe because it sounds like a fun time!
17,000 islands, 300+ languages and hundreds of cultures…. Whoa! I would love to visit Bali but am deterred by the flight from California. Would have to stay 3 weeks at least. I really want a Komodo Dragon to wave at me!
17,000 islands, 300+ languages and hundreds of cultures…. Whoa! I would love to visit Bali but am deterred by the flight from California. Would have to stay 3 weeks at least. I really want a Komodo Dragon to wave at me!
haha yes…as long as he is waving from a distance.
I am not a backpacker. Still, I find this post super-useful with a lot of takeaways for a family blogger like me, too. I would love to visit Wakatobi for sure on my trip to Indonesia. Pinning this article for my future reference. Thanks for compiling such a comprehensive post 🙂
Glad you liked it!
Looks like Lombok is the best place for me to visit, Would be great hiking around the Lake Segara Anak and and the stunning views from the Mount Rinjani would be worth the hike!
Okay, you deserve patting yourself on the back… This is a great guide for anyone wanting to visit Indonesia even if they’re not backpacking. The Ionger itinerary is definitely more appropriate given everything there is to see and do. I like the sound of Wakatobi and Hoga Island.
I am not a backpacker. Still, I find this post super-useful with a lot of takeaways for a family blogger like me, too. I would love to visit Wakatobi for sure on my trip to Indonesia. Pinning this article for my future reference. Thanks for compiling such a comprehensive post 🙂
Glad you liked it!
Looks like Lombok is the best place for me to visit, Would be great hiking around the Lake Segara Anak and and the stunning views from the Mount Rinjani would be worth the hike!
Lombok is a great choice!
Okay, you deserve patting yourself on the back… This is a great guide for anyone wanting to visit Indonesia even if they’re not backpacking. The Ionger itinerary is definitely more appropriate given everything there is to see and do. I like the sound of Wakatobi and Hoga Island.
haha thanks Linda! That comment made my day.
I would love to visit Indonesia one day, though I wouldn’t be backpacking and that’s okay! What an intriguing destination, filled with amazing animals like orangutans and komodo dragons, which I’d want to see at a distance. Your itinerary is very helpful, as are the ways you’ve outlined to keep to a budget – I do like saving money while travelling! Thanks for all the great tips.
I would love to visit Indonesia one day, though I wouldn’t be backpacking and that’s okay! What an intriguing destination, filled with amazing animals like orangutans and komodo dragons, which I’d want to see at a distance. Your itinerary is very helpful, as are the ways you’ve outlined to keep to a budget – I do like saving money while travelling! Thanks for all the great tips.
Yep, it is a great country for other styles of travel as well.
I can’t believe that one country could have 17,000 islands and 300 languages! That’s incredible! I love your list of average price for accommodations in cities within Indonesia. This is one of the most comprehensive travel guides I’ve ever seen.
Thanks for the compliments 🙂 It is a beautiful diverse country…..
I can’t believe that one country could have 17,000 islands and 300 languages! That’s incredible! I love your list of average price for accommodations in cities within Indonesia. This is one of the most comprehensive travel guides I’ve ever seen.
Thanks for the compliments 🙂 It is a beautiful diverse country…..
Oh wow. This is one in-depth post. I can’t believe how much information you shared with us. if I ever get there, I’ll know exactly what to do!
Thanks Ben! I am glad you liked it!
I have no idea Indonesia has over 2,000 inhabited Island, and with so many different culture. Nice tip on avoiding tap water by the way.
Yep! So many islands to visit. It would take a lifetime.
A friend of mine is planning a trip to Indonesia. Must share this post with her as it covers everything from A to Z!
A friend of mine is planning a trip to Indonesia. Must share this post with her as it cover everything from A to Z!
Great. Thanks for sharing with them. Tell them to email me if they have other questions.
Wow what a great breakdown. I would love to go backpacking, like it is a bucket item thing to do.
It’s an awesome guide for Indonesia. Could not have been better. Saving for future.
Great!! I am glad you liked it. Let me know if you have any questions.
Oh wow. This is one in-depth post. I can’t believe how much information you shared with us. if I ever get there, I’ll know exactly what to do!
Thanks Ben! I am glad you liked it!
I have no idea Indonesia has over 2,000 inhabited Island, and with so many different culture. Nice tip on avoiding tap water by the way.
Yep! So many islands to visit. It would take a lifetime.
A friend of mine is planning a trip to Indonesia. Must share this post with her as it covers everything from A to Z!
A friend of mine is planning a trip to Indonesia. Must share this post with her as it cover everything from A to Z!
Great. Thanks for sharing with them. Tell them to email me if they have other questions.
Wow what a great breakdown. I would love to go backpacking, like it is a bucket item thing to do.
Definitely! Do it!
It’s an awesome guide for Indonesia. Could not have been better. Saving for future.
Great!! I am glad you liked it. Let me know if you have any questions.
I haven’t traveled here but you are making a strong case for me to go there! Your itineraries are always so detailed and helpful.
Haha it is a great country! You should visit, Thanks for the compliment.
I just learned so much reading this! I’ve never even considered visiting Indonesian but this actually just made me consider it! You actually have a a lot of info in one post!
I haven’t traveled here but you are making a strong case for me to go there! Your itineraries are always so detailed and helpful.
Haha it is a great country! You should visit, Thanks for the compliment.
Wow! I would love to visit Indonesia one day. It sounds awesome.
I just learned so much reading this! I’ve never even considered visiting Indonesian but this actually just made me consider it! You actually have a a lot of info in one post!
Wow, so much useful information! I am planning to visit Bali next month and I might just have to check out the other places as well. Thank you so much for this! And for the app recommendations, too!
17,000 islands! How can this be?! That’s so amazing!
17,000 islands! How can this be?! That’s so amazing!
Haha it is crazy when you think about it!
This is such a well researched post! You really provide all the necessary information for anyone even traveling to Indonesia, let alone backpacking. Very interesting!
i have a friend who is planning to go to bali soon so i need to share this with her!! thank you for being so informative!
This is just amazing. Thanks for such a detailed and practical guide. Bookmarking it for future reference. Indonesia is on my list since long time. Hopefully, will visit soon.