The Excellent One-Month Indonesia Itinerary 

On this one-month Indonesia Itinerary, I’ll cowl every part you should know for the right journey, with a mixture of journey, lovely seashores, and the very best methods to discover. There’s a well-known truth that individuals wish to reference when speaking about Indonesia: it’s made up of greater than 17,000 islands. In the event you’re questioning the place to start in such an enormous nation, this one-month Indonesia itinerary will provide help to plan your excellent journey, from the place and when to go to how one can get round.

Indonesia stretches for greater than 5,000 kilometres between the Indian and Pacific Oceans – that’s greater than the size of Europe! Maybe it’s no shock then that the nation is extremely numerous in each panorama and wildlife. From dense jungle to effervescent volcanoes and pounding surf, Indonesia is an adventure-seeker’s dream. It’s additionally certainly one of solely 17 megadiverse nations on this planet, which means it’s house to tons of of distinctive species, each on land and within the ocean. Wildlife lovers, rejoice! For travellers who get pleasure from extra spirituality than adrenaline, the nation’s most well-known island, Bali, delivers in spades. 

Indonesia actually has one thing for everybody. So, whether or not you’re trying to catch some waves, catch a glimpse of the world’s largest lizard, or catch just a few rays on the seaside, right here’s every part you should know when planning your Indonesia itinerary.

When to Go to Indonesia

Indonesia spans the equator and subsequently enjoys a tropical local weather. This implies the nation usually has two seasons: moist and dry.

The dry season usually runs from round April to October. That is the very best time for having fun with island life and the nation’s numerous seaside locations. It’s additionally the very best time for outside adventures, together with climbing, wildlife-spotting and diving. July and August (together with Christmas and New 12 months) are peak season and finest prevented for those who don’t like crowds or hiked-up costs.

The moist season falls round November to March. Regardless of the occasional burst of rain, this is usually a good time to go to for those who choose fewer crowds and luxurious inexperienced countryside. Nonetheless, be warned that heavy or extended downpours can severely disrupt journey.

The temperature is sizzling year-round, however it will possibly plummet at evening in hilly areas – layers are a should on volcano hikes! Excellent news for surfers: there are surfable waves throughout each moist and dry seasons.

Easy methods to Get to Indonesia

Until you’re crossing by boat from Singapore or Malaysia, flying is absolutely the one possibility for attending to Indonesia. The principle hubs are Bali and the capital, Jakarta (on the island of Java). There are just a few worldwide flights to Yogyakarta (Java), Lombok and Labuan Bajo (Flores).

A number of main airways serve Indonesia, however just a few funds choices can be found for these travelling from elsewhere in Southeast Asia, resembling AirAsia, Scoot, and Jetstar.

Price of Travelling in Indonesia

Basically, Indonesia is likely one of the most cost-effective nations to journey within the area. The exception is Bali. Whereas the Island of the Gods is costlier than the remainder of Indonesia, it’s nonetheless very reasonably priced for these with Western budgets. It’s arduous to generalise about prices in such an enormous nation, however the costings listed here are primarily based on costs in the preferred islands (i.e. these featured on this itinerary). 

Road meals in Indonesia prices round $1.50–3 USD, whereas a meal in a Western restaurant on probably the most well-liked islands can set you again $5–6 USD. Lodging costs fluctuate vastly, however as a information, a mattress in a dorm can price anyplace between $7.50 and $25 USD, whereas a primary funds room might be discovered for as little as $9 USD. You could find very snug lodgings for lower than $30 USD per evening.

Actions are more likely to eat most of your funds in Indonesia. Anticipate to pay round $170–200 USD for a tour to Mount Bromo and Ijen, $ 200+ USD to hike Mount Rinjani, and round $450 USD for a Komodo crusing journey.

For extra of the very best ideas and tips for budgeting, take a look at A information to budgeting for travelling Bali, Indonesia

Easy methods to Get Round in Indonesia

Getting round in Indonesia is simple and reasonably priced on the preferred islands (it’s one other story on the lesser-visited islands!).

Java is the one island with an honest prepare community (there are just a few routes on Sumatra and Sulawesi), and rail is a good way to get round right here. Tiket is a useful web site for reserving trains on Java. Buses are all the time the most affordable method to journey, however the providers are restricted. They’re an excellent possibility on Java, however on Bali and Lombok they’re hardly ever utilized by travellers. Take a look at redbus.id for routes and costs.

In Bali, the preferred method to get round is by scooter. Many individuals hire their very own, however be warned: site visitors is a giant downside, and the preferred locations are extremely congested. Journey-hailing apps (assume Uber) are massively well-liked – Seize and Gojek are the largest ones. They’re an inexpensive, handy method to get from A to B.

Nonetheless, Seize and Gojek aren’t accessible on Lombok or the smaller close by islands (together with the Nusas and the Gilis). Right here, the very best and most handy possibility is to rent your individual scooter. (On the smallest islands, you’ll be able to stroll or rent a bicycle.) For longer journeys, there are shared minivans you’ll be able to guide upfront.

To get between islands, you can also make use of Indonesia’s intensive public ferry community. The reserving web site is ferizy.com, however it’s in Bahasa Indonesia solely, so the most suitable choice is to purchase a ticket straight on the port. In actuality, most travellers use vacationer boats or fly between islands.

Day 1–2: Yogyakarta, Java

Skip Indo’s crowded capital, Jakarta and head straight for Java’s cultural capital, Yogyakarta (affectionately known as Jogja). Direct flights can be found from Singapore and Malaysia; in any other case, you’ll be able to take a prepare from Jakarta (6–7 hours).

This digital nomad sizzling spot is understood for its wealthy cultural heritage and serves because the gateway to 2 of Indonesia’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Websites: the Borobudur and Prambanan Temples.

Discover the world’s largest Buddhist temple 

This large temple, courting to the eighth century, is certainly one of Indonesia’s most iconic photos. The partitions are adorned with tales from the lifetime of Buddha, and the temple is topped with 73 bell-shaped stupas. The expertise (and think about) is like no different temple in Southeast Asia.

Watch a Ramayana Ballet efficiency at Prambanan Temple 

The Ramayana is an historical Hindu epic. It’s fantastically delivered to life as a ballet, which is finest seen towards the dramatic backdrop of the Hindu temple advanced of Prambanan.

Uncover town’s historical past

From the royal residences of Kraton Palace and Water Citadel to Fort Vredeburg Museum, which outlines the story of Indonesian independence, Jogja has a wealth of historic landmarks.

Absorb the cafe tradition

Spend just a few hours cafe hopping in a metropolis that’s drawn in numerous digital nomads lured by its allure.

Day 3–5: Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen, Java

East Java boasts a few of Indonesia’s most spectacular pure surroundings. The preferred method to discover the important thing websites is by taking an organised tour, however it’s also possible to go to them independently utilizing a mixture of trains and shared shuttles. 

Witness the spectacular Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

‘The Waterfall of a Thousand Waterfalls’ falls a dramatic 200 metres over a cliff face, making a curtain of water amidst lush tropical jungle.

Watch the dawn over volcanoes

The Bromo Tengger Semeru Nationwide Park is a shocking volcanic panorama that ought to be on any itinerary. Watching the dawn over Mount Bromo earlier than strolling across the crater rim because it rumbled was probably the most breathtaking moments of my first go to to Indonesia!

Marvel on the electrical blue flames of Kawah Ijen

Mount Ijen, with its turquoise acidic lake, is the very best place on this planet to witness the blue flame phenomenon.

Day 6–9: Ubud, Bali

A brief ferry will take you to Bali, the place you’ll be able to hop on an area bus to Ubud. Bali is the centre of wellness and spirituality; it’s the right place to get pleasure from a few restorative days after the thrill of Java.

Take pleasure in a Balinese therapeutic massage

As somebody who will get massages all over the place I journey, I can verify that the Balinese definitely know how one can ship a soothing, indulgent expertise.

Strive one of many different wellness choices

Ever fancied a sound bathtub, laughter remedy or giving ecstatic dance a go? Ubud is the place to channel your interior hippy and dive into among the extraordinary wellness experiences on provide. (I like to recommend making an attempt a sound bathtub; it’s extremely stress-free!)

Take a stroll via the rice terraces

Ubud is surrounded by intensive and luxurious rice fields and terraces. Tegallalang Rice Terraces are essentially the most well-known, however for a extra tranquil expertise, head to Kajen Rice Discipline, which is walkable from town centre. (Whilst you’re there, attempt Candy Orange Warung for tasty meals with beautiful views.)

Chase just a few waterfalls

The countryside round Ubud is scattered with fairly waterfalls, excellent for a refreshing swim. Just a few of my favourites are Goa Rang Reng, Tibumana and Taman Sari.

Take a look at a few of our Ubud guides that will provide you with the entire hidden gems, whether or not you’re a foodie or need a spiritial/zen experince to sit back in Bali:

Day 10–12: Canggu and Pererenan, Bali

After just a few days of zen, take an hour’s journey south to the bustling southwest coast. (The simplest method is to take a Seize taxi.) Canggu is the epicentre of digital nomad tradition in Bali, which implies ample wonderful cafes and epic gyms. You’ll additionally discover pumping seaside golf equipment and pumping surf. In the event you fancy a barely quieter expertise, keep within the subsequent neighbourhood, Pererenan, which is shut sufficient to get pleasure from all of the chaos of Canggu whereas having the ability to escape to a calmer place when wanted.

Take a look at the seaside golf equipment

Seashore golf equipment are an iconic Bali expertise. A number of the finest in Canggu are FINNS, The Garden and La Brisa. Spend the day stress-free by the pool or the night partying subsequent to the seaside (or each!). Even when seaside golf equipment aren’t your vibe (I really feel you!), The Garden is a stunning spot for a daytime drink the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a taster of the full-on expertise.

Take a surf lesson

Browsing is synonymous with Bali, and Canggu affords waves for all ranges. You’ll discover surf faculties and guides for rent dotted alongside the seaside, so seize a board and catch some waves.

Soak within the sundown

There’s nothing fairly like watching the solar sink into the ocean, chilly beverage in hand. Bali’s west coast delivers dazzling sunsets, and gathering on the seaside to get pleasure from them is a each day ritual right here.

Gorge on world-class meals

Pererenan has made a reputation for itself as a foodie hotspot. Right here, you’ll be able to tuck into scrumptious world cuisines at very reasonably priced costs.

To see a few of the very best brunch and low spots in Canggu, Bali or in case you are after A Full Information To Canggu, Bali that will help you discover Canggu in additional element.

Day 13–14: Uluwatu, Bali

The Bukit Peninsula on the southern tip of the island is the place you’ll discover a few of Bali’s finest seashores, in addition to essentially the most epic surf. Listed here are a few of my high suggestions for the very best issues to do in Uluwatu:

Hit the waves

The most effective surf spots are clustered across the Bukit Peninsula, and superior surfers can get pleasure from rides at spots like Impossibles, Dreamland and Padang Padang. In the event you’re nonetheless studying, there are locations for you too! Take a look at Child Padang.

Benefit from the seashores

In the event you choose the sand to the water, there are many lovely locations to easily calm down, resembling Dreamland and Padang Padang (made well-known in Eat, Pray, Love). Do word that the sturdy surf within the area implies that the seashores are sometimes not appropriate for swimming – be sure that to observe native recommendation.

Have a drink at Single Finn

One among Uluwatu’s best-loved consuming holes, Single Finn is the very best location to observe the sundown and the professional surfers driving certainly one of Bali’s finest waves. In the event you’re after among the finest locations for brunch and low in Uluwatu, Bali, take a look at this information.

Go to Uluwatu Temple

Its location on the cliff’s edge affords dramatic views, whereas the nightly Kecak Hearth Dance present is a good cultural expertise. If you’re after a deeper dive into extra actions you are able to do in Uluwatu, right here is our Full Uluwatu Journey Information.

If you’re searching for the very best place to remain in Bali, take a look at our information under for lodging choices throughout Bali. The place to remain in Bali – see Bali on a map.

Day 15–17: Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan

Accessible by boat, three islands sit off the southeast coast of Bali: Nusa Penida, little Nusa Lembongan and tiny Nusa Cenigan. Nusa Penida is a well-liked day-trip vacation spot, however staying an evening or two allows you to uncover its magnificence throughout quieter hours. Nusa Lembongan is a laid-back island with a smattering of surf spots and seaside golf equipment. Listed here are just a few of my favorite issues to do on these 3 islands; take a look at our A information to Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia if you wish to plan an entire journey there.

Benefit from the seashores

Each Penida and Lembongan have lovely seashores. Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Seashore is Instagram-famous for its view of a T. rex-shaped headland. On Lembongan, Jungutbatu Seashore is a sweep of white-sand paradise, and Dream Seashore is a hidden little bay that’s nicely price in search of out.

Snorkel or dive

Whichever island you base your self on, you’ll be able to get pleasure from nice snorkelling or scuba diving. You may even be fortunate sufficient to identify manta rays!

Take to the waves or climbing trails

In the event you’re a surfer, Lembongan will seemingly enchantment to you with its breaks for intermediate and superior surfers regardless of their ominous names: Lacerations, Shipwrecks and Razors! For land-lovers, Penida affords loads of climbing alternatives to discover the island on foot.

Day 18–20: Gili T or Gili Air

The three Gili Islands lie off Lombok’s north coast. Accessible by boat from Bali or Nusa Penida, every has its personal distinct ambiance. Gili Trawangan (often called Gili T) is the occasion island; Gili Air is the chilled, laid-back one; and Gili Meno is the quietest of all. (Gili Meno is barely actually price visiting for those who’re searching for a quiet, romantic getaway, as there may be nothing to do there.)

Stay the island life

Spend days lazing in a hammock and evenings partying or stargazing on the seaside, relying in your journey fashion.

Swim with turtles

The Gili Islands are well-known for snorkelling and diving and are a chief location to identify sea turtles.

Circumnavigate the island by foot or bike

Gili Air is sufficiently small to stroll round, whereas Gili T is ripe for exploration on two wheels. Go on an journey and uncover all sides of the islands.

If this excites you and also you wish to begin planning your final journey to Gili T and Gili Air, then finest to take a look at the next two guides:

Day 21–23: Tetebatu, Lombok

A brief boat journey from the Gilis will take you to Lombok, Bali’s sister island. Nestled within the coronary heart of Lombok, within the foothills of Mount Rinjani and amongst rice fields, the small village of Tetebatu affords a glimpse into conventional life.

Wander across the village

Strolling via the quiet streets of Tetebatu is a good way to get a really feel for a quieter lifestyle, greet among the area people and luxuriate in views over the rice fields and surrounding jungle.

Uncover conventional crafts

Craftsmanship is a part of each day life in Tetebatu. You possibly can watch artisans work with native supplies like bamboo to make on a regular basis objects resembling mats, baskets, and furnishings. Weaving can be very a lot alive, and you’ll witness ladies weaving scarves, sarongs, and different textiles.

Go to some waterfalls

There are a number of waterfalls dotted round Tetebatu, many inside strolling distance. Air Terjun Sarang Walet is likely one of the most spectacular.

Discover the Monkey Forest

Gray macaques and black langur monkeys name this space house. It is a excellent spot to see them for those who choose a extra pure wildlife expertise. In contrast to the inhabitants of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali, the animals right here aren’t used to people and are more likely to maintain their distance from guests.

Facet Quest: Mount Rinjani

You probably have the time and inclination, trekking up Mount Rinjani is a good expertise for climbing lovers. This difficult however rewarding three- or four-day journey takes hikers to the crater rim of an energetic volcano to get pleasure from dawn views from Lombok’s highest level. The volcano stands at a powerful 3,726 meters above sea stage.

Day 24–26: Kuta, Lombok

Kuta, on the south coast of Lombok (to not be confused with Kuta, Bali), is the beating coronary heart of the island. Completely located to entry the entire island’s finest browsing spots, this former fishing village has reworked right into a thriving traveller hub.

Surf

Lombok has waves for surfers of all ranges (together with a wonderful longboarding break at Tanjung Aan). Surfers have been drawn right here by the glassy reef breaks and line-ups which might be much less crowded than Bali, though that is quickly altering as Lombok’s reputation continues to blow up. In the event you’re contemplating becoming a member of a surf camp, that is the place to do it.

Take a journey to the very best seashores

A few of Lombok’s prettiest seashores are a scooter journey west of Kuta. The journey itself is a picturesque drive. Take a look at Mawi, Mawun and Selong Belanak.

Go to the Secret Gilis

One other group of Gili islands is in Lombok. A lot much less visited than the trio within the north, the Secret Gilis are an awesome place to go diving or snorkelling for those who choose a quieter expertise.

In the event you just like the sound of every part about Kuta, these guides will provide help to with a extra detailed concept of the Greatest issues to do in Kuta Lombok and A Full Lombok Journey Information for all your Lombok travels.

Day 27–30: Labuan Bajo and Komodo Nationwide Park, Flores

The Komodo Nationwide Park is certainly one of Indonesia’s most spectacular locations and residential to the world-famous Komodo dragon. The small coastal city of Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores is the gateway to the nationwide park, which is accessible by a brief flight from Bali. From Labuan Bajo, you’ll be able to both take a multi-day cruise (normally round three days) round Komodo Nationwide Park or you’ll be able to hit all of the highlights in sooner or later on a speedboat tour. In the event you take the one-day possibility, there may be lots to do on the mainland to maintain you busy for the remaining days.

Stroll alongside large lizards

Komodo dragons, which may develop as much as three metres lengthy, are the world’s largest lizard. They’re endemic to this area of Indonesia, and climbing on Komodo Island or Rinca Island is one of the best ways to identify them.

Hike as much as Padar Island Viewpoint

The quick hike as much as the highest of Padar Island affords implausible views over the island and is nicely definitely worth the effort!

Calm down on pink sand

Pink Seashore in Komodo Nationwide Park is a blinding mixture of powdery pink sand and glowing blue water.

Discover conventional cultures

Take a day journey from Labuan Bajo to Melo Village to expertise Manggaraian tradition and watch a Caci, a conventional combating dance.

Get excessive at dawn or sundown

There are a number of viewpoints surrounding Labuan Bajo, which give implausible views over Flores Island and the Flores Sea. Get pleasure from one of many mesmerising sunsets up excessive for a very memorable second.

With a lot to see and do, a month in Indonesia offers you the right period of time to expertise somewhat little bit of every part, from Java’s temples and volcanoes to Bali’s seashores and wellness scene, and the islands of Lombok and Flores. This One-Month Indonesia Itinerary has you lined for all issues, together with planning your route, however there’s loads of room to combine and match relying in your journey fashion.

Have you ever been to Indonesia?

What are the very best issues to do in Indonesia? Something you’d add to this Indonesia bucket record?

Lisa Barham

Lisa is a London-born author who left her nine-to-five within the arts to pursue a dream of travelling the world. She’s journeyed throughout 4 continents and counting and has written extensively about travelling in Southeast Asia and South America. Comply with her adventures on Instagram and Substack.