The Best Things to Do in Indonesia – Insider Tips

Are you trying to find out what to do in Indonesia?

In this blog I’ll share the best things to do in Indonesia as recommended by people who know the country inside out.

Indonesia is a country rich in culture and full of spectacular natural views and landscapes that will stay with you forever.

With around 18,000 islands, there are many unique things to do in Indonesia.

Unfortunately on my travels to Indonesia I ended up in a hospital after getting dengue fever in Bali and didn’t see many of the things I planned to see in Indonesia.

I, therefore, worked on this article with one of the people from TailorGo, who knows the country like no one else, to share some of the best things to do in Indonesia.

Top Things to Do in Indonesia

1. Visit the Komodo Dragons

At Komodo National Park you can see the world-famous, giant lizards – the Komodo Dragons.

The national park is composed of three large volcanic islands (Komodo, Rinca, and Padar), and numerous smaller ones. It is a great area for hiking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and seeing the Komodo dragons for yourself is definitely one of the top things to do in Indonesia! 

You can book a private 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day tour of the Komodo islands which includes a boat trip, overnight stays and many activities, depending on the length of the trip you choose.

Tip: You can book those tours of the Komodo Islands online by clicking on the links in the text above. I recommend doing this well in advance to make sure they don’t sell out, and you are allowed to cancel them up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

2. Visit the Tanah Lot Temple in Bali

This Hindu temple is perched on top of an outcrop and is famous for its spectacular sunsets and picturesque views.

It can only be accessed during low tide and therefore it’s best to check the times before going there.

Legend has it that couples should refrain from going there together as it could be unlucky!

The Tanah Lot temple is one of Bali’s most important landmarks and watching the sunset here is definitely something you don’t want to miss.

Also Read: A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Bali, Indonesia – Going Beyond Ubud and The Pros and Cons of Living in Bali

3. Hike an Active Volcano!

This is one of the most popular things to do in Indonesia for anyone who loves a good hike.

Soaring over 2300 meters (7550 feet) above sea level, Mount Bromo is the only active volcano inside Java’s spectacular Tengger Caldera National Park.

Hiking Mount Bromo is popular with both Indonesian and international travelers and it is without a doubt one of the things not to miss when traveling to Indonesia.

People come here to see the smoking volcano, the surreal landscape, and the spectacular sunrises.

Legend has it that a brave prince sacrificed his life for his family, so therefore the people here appease the Gods once a year during the annual Kasada festival where offerings of vegetables, chickens and money are thrown into the crater of the volcano.

The best time to visit Mount Bromo is from May until October and if you want to avoid the crowds, better skip the weekends.

Tip: There is a 3-day tour from Bali that takes you to Mt. Bromo and inside the Ijen crater!

If you plan to spend time on Java, you can book a day tour to Mount Bromo from Surabaya – or should I say night tour, because the tour starts just after midnight to get you there for sunrise!

4. Be Amazed at the Istiqlal Mosque

This spectacular Mosque can be found in the capital city of Jakarta.

In Indonesia, the majority of the population is Muslim and therefore you find spectacular mosques all around the country.

The Istiqlal mosque is the largest one with a magnificent dome that will take your breath away. It is open to everyone.

Also Read: 15 Interesting Facts About Indonesia

5. Shake Your Body Watching Balinese Dance Moves!

The Kecak and Fire dance is one of the most popular traditional Balinese dances and you can watch this at Uluwatu temple in Pecatu, on the southern peninsula of Bali.

This dance is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bali! It takes place at sunset and the dancers are beyond amazing!

You can book tickets online which include transportation from your hotel. I recommend booking these early, especially since you are allowed to cancel until 24 hours before the show.

6. Learn How to Cook a Spectacular Meal

Throughout Indonesia you can find cooking classes, where you can learn how to cook with the traditional spices and flavors unique to this part of the world.

Just ask you ho(s)tel for cooking classes nearby.

7. Visit the Borobudur Temple

This famous Buddhist temple, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, is located in central Java.

It is a masterpiece, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spectacular carvings on the walls tell a beautiful story.

Insider tip: hire a guide, it is absolutely worth it!

You can book a half-day tour or a full-day tour which includes transportation from your hotel with a knowledgeable, English speaking driver. But, hiring a guide inside the temple is still recommended. 

8. Hike Mount Rinjani on Lombok

If you love a good challenge and epic views, the Mount Rinjani trek on the island of Lombok might just be the highlight of your trip.

Rinjani is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, and hiking it is no easy feat. But, it’s 100% worth the sore legs. The crater lake, Segara Anak, is breathtaking, especially at sunrise.

Most people do a 2- or 3-day trek, which includes camping on the rim or near the lake and watching the clouds drift below you.

And even if this hike isn’t for you, Lombok is a great alternative to Bali. It’s less developed, has quieter beaches, and fewer tourists.

You can get to Lombok by fast boat from Bali (takes around 2 hours) or by plane (about 30 minutes).

If you’re planning to hike Rinjani, make sure to book with a reputable trekking company (they’ll provide guides, porters, meals, and gear). The trekking season runs from April to December. Outside of that, the trails are closed due to heavy rains.

9. Dive or Snorkel in Raja Ampat

Let’s talk about paradise. Raja Ampat, in West Papua, is often described as one of the most biodiverse marine areas on the planet. Think crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and schools of fish that make you feel like you’re swimming in an aquarium.

It’s an absolute dream for scuba divers, but even if you don’t dive, snorkeling here is unforgettable.

Also Read: How to Snorkel – Simple and Practical Tips

Getting to Raja Ampat takes effort (fly to Sorong via Jakarta or Makassar, then take a ferry to Waisai), but that’s part of the magic; it feels untouched.

Accommodation ranges from rustic beach huts to beautiful eco-resorts, and most include meals and tours.

If you’re looking for something truly special and off the beaten path, this is it.

I recommend staying at least 5–7 days to make the trip worthwhile and to really soak in the slow, laid-back pace of island life.

10. Discover the Traditions of Tana Toraja

Tana Toraja in South Sulawesi offers one of the most unique cultural experiences in Indonesia.

The region is known for its elaborate funerals, traditional houses with boat-shaped roofs (called tongkonan), and cliffside burial sites. It might sound a little morbid, but it’s actually fascinating and deeply rooted in the Torajan people’s beliefs about life and death.

To get there, take a flight to Makassar, then it’s about an 8- to 9-hour drive or bus ride into the highlands. The scenery along the way is gorgeous, with rice terraces and misty mountains.

Rantepao is the main town and a good base for exploring. You’ll want to hire a local guide who can explain the customs and take you to traditional villages, burial caves, and possibly even a funeral ceremony (they’re often open to respectful visitors).

It’s best to visit during the dry season (June to September), when more ceremonies are held and the roads are easier to navigate.

11. Don’t Miss out on Indonesia’s Water Sports

There is a vast number of water adventures available – from canyoning to rafting, surfing, sailing and scuba diving.

Canyoning, especially at Kalimudah Canyon in Bali, is a must-do. You slide down natural water slides – fun for the whole family!

Check out this hidden canyon, waterfall & temple tour if you are looking for an adventure-packed day in Bali. Or I can highly recommend this snorkeling trip to Nusa Penida & Manta Point.

12. Eat as Much Indonesian Food as You Can!

Indonesia is famous for its spectacular culinary delights so of course one of the best things to do in Indonesia is to try all the local food!

From fresh seafood to intricate, flavorful curries. Go on a gastronomic adventure you will never forget!

Definitely don’t miss Indonesian Satay (meat on skewers), Beef rendang, Sop Buntut (oxtail soup) and Nasi Uduk (one of Indonesia’s national dishes).

But really I could go on and on and make this list much longer so just try as much food as you can while exploring Indonesia!

The Best Experiences in Indonesia

Indonesia is so large and diverse that it is impossible to see it all in just a few weeks.

But no matter when and for how long you travel to Indonesia, I hope you’ll have a great time and I hope this list of things to do in Indonesia has helped plan your trip.

Enjoy as much as you can of what this country has to offer! Check out this Complete Guide to Indonesia for more travel tips.

Also Read:

• Traveling to Indonesia? Check Out These 15 Facts About Indonesia First!
• How to Find the Cheapest Flights to Anywhere in the World
• Dengue Fever in Bali – My Personal Experiences
• What It’s Like to Live in Jakarta as an Expat
• Life in Indonesia – Things You Should Know if You Want to Move Here

 

 

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