Indonesia is known as the Land of Great Adventure. Not only will it greet you with these dramatic and majestic landscapes, but it will also shower you with some of the most exotic and delicious food in the entire planet. Indonesia is one of the countries that can consider beaches and volcanoes as part of the usual landscapes around you. When you travel to this mysterious land, be prepared to culturally immerse yourself with the customs of the locals. If you’re unsure as to where you should begin your mystic journey, scroll down to see some of the best things to do in Indonesia.
1. Hit the waves in Kuta (from USD 7.0)
The waves of Bali are some of the most attractive in the country, and the ones in Kuta are the most frequented. Surf School Bali provides you with the opportunity to learn the art of surfing. A surfboard will be provided to you. You’ll get two hours of surfing time, with a cooldown break in between. Instructional videos will be sent to you beforehand, so you can do your homework before hitting the waves. After surfing, you can eat at any of the restaurants just outside the surf school.
UP2U Surf School Bali
Duration: 2 hours
2. Make some delicious dishes in this Indonesian cooking class (from USD 28.0)
What is a trip to a new country without learning about the food? At the Sweet & Spicy Gili Cooking School, professional chefs will show you the ins and outs of Indonesian Cuisine. You’ll learn about ingredients, tools, and the techniques needed to prepare some of the favorites, such as mie goreng, chicken, steamed fish, and peanut sauce. Classes take around two hours, so be sure to take notes as much as you can. Anyone with any skill level is welcome here, and as a bonus, you’ll be able to enjoy the new dish you made.
Sweet and Spicy - Indonesian Cooking Class in Gili Trawangan
Duration: 2 hours
3. Admire the Uluwatu sunset and watch a Kecak dance (from USD 30.0)
This half-day trek in Bali starts with a visit to a plantation in the Peninsula, where you will see and learn how tea and coffee are harvested and prepared. After that, you will be taken to Padang Padang beach, a small cove with pristine sands and rock formations. The seaside Uluwatu Temple is the last stop on the journey before you return home. The Hindu temple is centuries-old and inhabited by wild apes. At 6 pm, a Kecak dance is performed by the cliffside, with the sunset as a backdrop.
Uluwatu Temple Half-Day Private Tour with Onboard Wi-Fi
Duration: 6 hours
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4. Buy souvenirs at Gede Hardjonagoro Traditional Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Built in the year 1927, Pasar Gede Hardjonagoro is Surakarta’s oldest traditional market and it has been witness to the city’s growth over the years. The façade of the building is well preserved, and it sports classic Indonesian architectural cues. Inside, many of the stalls have been mainstays for decades, and sell products like fresh food, plastic wares, handicrafts, and many more. A recommended buy here is Lenjongan, a mix of various finger foods such as Sawut, Cenil, Tiwul, and more. Of course, you can also try these delicious finger foods individually, as well!
Gede Hardjonagoro Traditional Market
Address: Jl. Jend. Urip Sumoharjo, Sudiroprajan, Kec. Jebres, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57121, Indonesia
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8:30am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
5. Learn the art of batik making (from USD 11.0)
Do you want to learn how to make some native Indonesian crafts? Try making batik fabric, a form of dyeing that uses wax to cover unpainted sections of the fabric. This half-day tour will take you to a small town where batik is made, and the locals will teach you all the processes and steps involved. The fabric, dye, and tools are already provided for you, so all you need to bring is yourself. You’ll be provided with snacks and drinks during the session, and you can even take home your batik as a lovely souvenir!
Batik master class, traditional handmade
Duration: 4 hours
6. Venture to Mount Bromo (from USD 23.9)
Mount Bromo is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, standing over 2300 meters (7600 ft) above sea level. The volcano is part of a cluster of five volcanoes that form a giant depression and is one of the most visited sites in East Java. This tour will take you on a jeep ride all the way to the viewing deck to the north. If you arrive early enough, you might even see the clouds form beneath the viewing deck. The tour then brings you down into the caldera, where you can get even closer to Bromo. You’ll then have a good breakfast before returning to your hotel or accommodation. Remember to bring a flashlight and some comfy clothes as the tour starts before dawn.
Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour Hiking Tour from Surabaya or Malang
Duration: 12hrsDuration
7. Gaze at the sunset at Tana Lot (from USD 12.55)
This half-day tour takes you around some of the holiest sites in Bali and it takes the whole afternoon to complete - better to have lunch before starting. You’ll visit the temple of Taman Ayun, a royal temple surrounded by a large and lush garden. The Alas Kedaton temple is a forest temple, and you can find monkeys and flying foxes living in the trees around you. Tana Lot temple is the last stop and it sits atop a rock just off the coast. The temple faces the west, and the view of the sunset from here provides the perfect background. Take in all the beautiful views before returning to your home base.
Tanah Lot Sunset Tour
8. Explore Jomblang Cave (from USD 30.0)
Are you ready for a more intense adventure? Rappel your way down into the Jomblang Cave, an underground cave sitting southeast of Yogyakarta city. Before you enter the cave, you’ll be provided with the proper equipment. You’ll descend down a 60-meter (196 ft) vertical shaft. In total darkness, you’ll walk 280 meters (918 ft) to reach the best part of the cave. At the end of the tunnel is a light that shines from above. It resembles a light from heaven, a brilliant shade of white that is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No need to worry or be nervous as your helpful guide will orient you beforehand.
Yogyakarta: Jomblang Cave Tour
Duration: 6.0 hour
9. Sample street food in Jakarta (from USD 34.0)
Jakarta is popular for its rich selection of street food, with numerous stalls and markets serving delicious dishes. The best time to visit these places is in the evening when everyone is done with the workday and most shops are open. Your host will show you food that is not usually listed in guidebooks and videos. Some of these dishes include satay, deep-fried eggs, and stir-fried vegetables. You’ll be asked about any food allergies that you may have, to make buying food much easier. You’ll also view how these tasty dishes are made, so you can try them out once you return home.
Street Food at Night In South-Central
Duration: 2.5 hours
10. Get a massage at Bali Orchid Spa (from USD 25.19)
Are you tired of urban life stressing you out, or did you just have a long day traveling around the island? If you’re looking for some TLC, why not pay a visit to the Bali Orchid Spa? The spa offers a wide range of services and products that can help you relax. Choose from different full-body treatments like Lulur Spa, Blissful Spa, and Just Let’s Go Massage. Using organic ingredients and oils, the spa makes sure to treat your skin gently. It is located along the most popular stretch of beach in Bali, so you won’t be isolated from the nightlife after your session.
Full Body Massage Treatment at Bali Orchid Spa in Bali, Indonesia Philippines
11. Stroll around the streets of Jakarta (from USD 67.0)
The capital city of Jakarta has plenty of charm, with multiple historic and architectural wonders, as well as numerous popular hangout spots. Moving around, you will use different modes of public transport. You’ll find yourself at the heart of the Old Town, where old mosques and monuments stand. Central Jakarta is home to all the richest street food, including fried eggs, coconut rice, and gorengan (or fried snacks) - all of these are a must-try. You’ll also visit the different parks and hangout spots of the locals. A guide will lead you throughout your trip, so don’t be afraid to ask any questions about the city.
Strolling Around like the Jakartans
Duration: 5 hours
12. Buy some fresh produce at the Lok Baintan Floating Market
The Lok Baintan Floating Market is a daily pop-up market with a twist. Located along the Martapura River just outside the city of Banjarmasin, the market is formed by numerous boats, each with a person selling their wares. Most of the sellers are farmers who are selling their produce. Some of the boats sell delicacies like rice cakes and gangan (fried food). There are also boats that sell pretty handicrafts like hats, baskets, and décor. All the items here are sold at low prices, so feel free to shop for souvenirs to your heart’s content!
Lok Baintan Floating Market
Address: Martapura River, Banjarmasin 70653 Indonesia
Opening hours:6am - 9am (daily)
Price: Free
13. Go on a Lembang day tour (from USD 38.89)
A day tour around Lembang is a must-do for those in West Java. From the city of Bandung, you’ll take a van up to the mountain town, sitting around 2000 meters (6562 ft) above sea level. While enjoying the cool mountain air, you’ll visit Farmhouse Lembang, a European-themed amusement park. You’ll also pass by the Lodge Maribaya, a large recreational park filled with exciting activities and rich green spaces. Buy some fresh produce and wares at the Lembang Floating Market, right in the center of Lembang. You’ll go back down to Bandung in the evening, wrapping up a memorable trip up the mountain.
Lembang Tour from Bandung, Indonesia
Duration: 8hrsDuration
14. Perform a holy bathing ritual in Bali (from USD 65.0)
This whole-day tour takes you through some of the most sacred sites in Bali, including temples, water pools, and healers. The healing pools have some of the clearest water anywhere on the globe and are said to have divine healing powers. Be sure to bring a towel, swimsuit, and extra clothes before stepping into the pool. You will then visit a healer, who will guide you through a cleansing of your mind. During your trip, you’ll also get to enjoy a freshly-prepared local dish, which will be served in a restaurant by an open field.
Bali Healer and Holy Bathing Tour
Duration: 7.5 hours
15. Trek through Bukit Lawang (from USD 128.0)
With this trekking tour, you’ll be spending an entire day in the jungles of Bukit Lawang. Keep in mind that this is a private tour so you pretty much have the option to continue on a hike or raft through the river back to the village. You can also choose to acquire an overnight accommodation in Bukit Lawang so that you are better able to learn more about the local wildlife in the area. If you want to get to know the animal kingdom of Indonesia, this exciting tour, complete with round-trip transportation, is the perfect one for you!
Private Full-Day Bukit Lawang Trekking Tour From Medan
Duration: 12 hours
16. Explore a plethora of water activities on Lake Toba (from USD 36.35)
Lake Toba is considered as the largest natural lake in Indonesia. If you are looking to do more water-based activities in the Land of Great Adventure, then this day tour is your best bet. Some of the things included in this tour are as follows: free 24-hour notice on any cancellation, hotel pick up, and a 14-hour tour around the second largest lake in the world. Lake Toba occupies the mouth of a supervolcano that is both really long and really deep; it’s truly a breathtaking experience!
Lake Toba - The Largest Lake in Indonesia - Day Tour from Medan, Indonesia - Klook
Duration: 12hrsDuration
17. Unwind at the stunning Gilli Islands
If you are looking for a more laid-back adventure on your trip to Indonesia, then this Lombok Gili Islands private day tour should grace the top of your itinerary. With this, you can genuinely escape the crowds of tourists that flock some of the main attractions in Indonesia. With this, you’ll not only get a private boat but you’ll also discover some of the most spectacular areas in Indonesia, including the Gili Islands. Are you looking for ways to snorkel in peace? This tour has got you covered as it’ll take you to a more private and uninhibited Gili Kedis Island. Furthermore, what better way to end this tour than to catch fish and enjoy a nice seafood meal.
Northern Coast Gili Islands Private Snorkeling Day Tour from Lombok
Duration: 9hrsDuration
18. Soak in the spectacular views of the forests of Ubud on a hot air balloon (from USD 121.59)
If you’re traveling to Indonesia, Bali may be part of your itinerary. If so, we highly advise that you check out this activity – a hot air balloon experience that lets you appreciate the lush and tropical forests of Ubud. This tour already includes your morning breakfast, an afternoon tea, and dinner with your friends and family. To complete your trip, you’ll also be given a certificate, some souvenirs, and insurance.
Ubud: Hot Air Balloon Experience
19. Marvel at the castles in Yogyakarta (from USD 58.0)
On this tour, you will visit the city of Yogyakarta, known for its many temples and palaces. Your first stop is the Grand Palace of Yogyakarta, an 18th-century structure that is currently home to the Sultan of Yogyakarta. It also serves as a cultural center, where you can learn more about the region. The next place to visit is the Taman Sari Castle, another 18th-century castle characterized by its sacred water bath. If there is still time, you’ll be able to enter the Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, with hundreds of statues of Buddha present.
Yogyakarta: Palace, Water Castle & UNESCO Temple Guided Tour
Duration: 10.0 hour
20. Witness a spectacular sunset from Borobudur Buddhist Temple (from USD 70.0)
Why don’t you start your trip to Indonesia by watching the beautiful and majestic sunrise at Borobudur Temple? It isn’t a secret that Indonesia is full of temples–one of which is Borobudur Temple, also known as the biggest Hindu temple in the country. With this tour, you are given about 12 hours to witness the breathtaking and scenic views. You can also opt to hire a local tour guide so that you are better able to understand the history behind this structure. You’ll arrive at around five in the morning so that you will have more than enough time to explore this landmark.
Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise & Prambanan Temple Guided Tour
Duration: 12.0 hour
21. Discover the Komodo dragons at Komodo National Park
Start your tour with an airport pick up at the Komodo Airport. Then, you head on to the harbor. Here, you’ll start your journey by boat to one of the more well-known islands, Rinca Island. You’ll be given a chance to explore the beauty and scenic views of the island. In addition, you’ll be guided by a ranger as you go about your adventure in an area that is known for its diverse wildlife. Be sure to watch out for Timor deer, any of the long-tail macaques, and also some water buffalos. By the end of the day, you can relax on board a cruise ship so that you can recharge and get a restful night’s sleep for another fun-filled adventure the following day. You’ll start the second day by watching the Komodo dragons, as well as the birds within the island. By the third day, you’ll explore areas like Labuan Bajo and Batu Cermin Cave. Trust us when we say that this tour will make you appreciate the highly diverse animal kingdom of Indonesia.
Komodo National Park 3-Day Tour with Rinca Island Trek
Duration: 3 days
22. Admire the architectural beauty of Goa Gajah Temple, Yeh Pulu Temple, and Gunung Kawi Temple (from USD 60.0)
The best part about this tour is that you get to see the beauty of three Indonesian temples in a day. This highlights Goa Gajah Temple, Yeh Pulu Temple, and Gunung Kawi Temple. The Goa Gajah is known as the Elephant Cave, which served as a sanctuary since the 19th century. The Yeh Pulu Temple, on the other hand, is one of the more respected Balinese temples and a very fascinating archaeological site. Lastly, the Gunung Kawi Temple is the largest and most ancient temple complex in the country – and you can experience all its grandeur with this tour. Some of the things included in this tour are as follows: admissions fees, parking, fuel, lunch at one of the local restaurants, and round-trip transfers.
Amazing Tours-Goa Gajah Temple-Yeh Pulu temple-Gunung Kawi Temple-Waterfall
Duration: 10 hours
23. Discover the hidden waterfalls of Bali (from USD 25.0)
Waterfalls are very popular attractions in Bali, alongside the world-famous beaches. Your tour starts early in the morning at Tukad Cepung waterfall, to beat the crowds and view the sunlight through the pristine waters. Tibumana waterfall is a popular honeymoon and wedding background, so you might catch a couple or two there. You’ll visit other social media-friendly waterfalls in the area, and coffee plantations where you’ll learn about coffee-making. You’ll have a hearty lunch before visiting the rice terraces at Tegalalang, and return to Kuta Beach to wrap up this exciting trip.
Bali - Explore Hidden Waterfall
Duration: 5 hours
24. Marvel at the flames of Kawah Ijen (from USD 99.0)
This tour will take you from the city of Banyuwangi all the way to the top of Mount Ijen, and back. Ijen is one of many volcanoes that form East Java, standing almost 2,800 meters (9,085 ft) above sea level. At the top of the mountain, you’ll see the crater lake, which also serves as a sulfur mining area. The night will bring the famed blue flames, caused by burning sulfur from the volcano. The trip takes two days; most of the food, accommodation, and safety equipment are provided. Bring extra clothes and food, and be sure to be in good physical shape
Kawah Ijen By Night - Blue Flame Tour
Duration: 2 days
25. Meet the Toraja people (from USD 320.0)
Looking for an extended adventure in the heart of Indonesia? This trip is for you! On this four-day tour, you’ll depart from Rantepao to visit the village. Each day has a certain number of stops where you’ll visit places like royal tombs, burial caves, and cacao plantations. You’ll also be trekking through rice fields, bamboo forests, and Torajan houses to appreciate all the natural scenery. You’ll be provided with meals each day, so you don’t have to pack so much. The Toraja people are more than willing to impart their knowledge and tradition to you.
Toraja Private 4-Day Tour With Off-the-Path 3-Day Trek
Duration: 4 days
Immerse yourself in Indonesian culture
When it comes to some of Indonesia’s tourist spots, you don’t need much to truly appreciate the scenic views and diverse wildlife. Take a moment to truly detach yourself from the outside world. Immerse yourself culturally and appreciate the beauty of nature. If you’re looking for ways to find yourself, then taking up one of these tours may be a good choice.
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