1. Climb down to the foot of Tumpak Sewu, Java
Tumpak Sewu, loosely translated as ‘a thousand waterfalls’, rightly deserves its title as the most breathtaking waterfall in Indonesia. The numerous dramatic waterfalls descend from a height of 120 meters, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the country!
Hike down to the foot of Tumpak Sewu to experience the thundering power of falling water on your body.
2. Pink sand beaches of Komodo
It’s hard to believe it’s real, but this incredible beach color is a natural phenomenon caused by tiny bits of red coral mixing with the white sand. The combination of colors, set against the fierce turquoise of the ocean, creates a truly, somewhat surreal, magical paradise in Indonesia.
Fact: There are only seven pink beaches in the world and they are disappearing due to global warming. Replace your sunscreen with a reef-safe one! (Read more)
3. Explore the rainbow village of Jodipan, Java
Jodipan might be the world’s most colorful village. This bright, artistic town was once a slum area. However, since being refreshed using color, it has become one of the main hotspots on Java Island in Indonesia.
4. Visit and stay at a homestay in Indonesia
Building connections with people is one of the greatest gifts of traveling. Get away from the crowds on the coast of Bali and immerse yourself in village life by staying with a local Balinese family.
This unique experience in Indonesia allows you to connect with new people and learn about a different culture and their customs. Help out on the farm harvesting coconuts, eat delicious homemade Indonesian food, and make friends for life!
Read more: Stay in a homestay in Bali
5. Prambanan and Borobudur Temples, Java
Two UNESCO World Heritage temples are among the best places to visit in Indonesia. The Hindu temple Prambanan, labeled the biggest temple complex in Indonesia, is designed in the shape of a Mandala, with varying levels, shapes, and sizes of temples.
The nearby Borobudur is a Buddhist temple and is the largest Buddhist monument in the world! You can join a small group tour to Borobudur, Prambanan, and Merapi Volcano that includes hotel pickup, guide, and entry to all sites.
Split your day between these two fascinating religious relics and enjoy the culture of Yogyakarta.
6. Hike up Padar Island, Flores
Picture perfect Padar Island is the 3rd largest of the islands making up the legendary Komodo National park. It also has not one, but three colors of sand beaches – white, black and pink! In just a 30 minute hike, you can reach the peak of the island and see mind-blowing panoramic views across the national park. A must-do on your boat trip through Komodo!
7. The creative, spiritual, and tropical vibe of Ubud
Ubud is where the tropical nature of Bali comes to life! Luscious green rice fields set against a backdrop of waterfalls, make Ubud a must-do on anyone’s Indonesian journey.
One of the best places to visit in this artistic town is the Ubud Monkey Forest. There is a very deep sense of spirituality, showcased through the countless beautiful temples, holy pools, and yoga retreats. There is something for everyone in Ubud!
8. Discover the Nusa Islands
These three unique neighboring islands just off the Bali coast are totally diverse in their character. Spend your days traveling on a scooter. Drive over the yellow bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan and chill at the beach bars.
A 10-minute boat trip away is neighboring Nusa Penida, which is home to one of the world’s most impressive cliff views KelingKing Beach and countless Manta Rays that swim off the shores.
9. Komodo Dragons at Flores – A unique place to visit in Indonesia
The Komodo Islands are home to a very interesting inhabitant – the Komodo Dragon! These giant lizards are a must-see when visiting the islands. The wildlife is limitless around the Komodo Islands and taking a boat tour will allow you to swim with Turtles, Manta Rays, and more than 1000 species of fish that live in these waters.
You can’t miss this Komodo Islands 3-day boat tour
10. Live the slow pace of life on Gili Air
Gili Air ticks off every element of your paradise wishlist – white sand, palm trees, and turquoise ocean. Live the slow pace of life, with no concrete roads, no cars, and bikes only. The island is so small you can walk around it in 90 minutes!
Nothing will beat the feeling of swimming with turtles off the shores, combined with a coconut, as you watch the sun go down over Mount Agung in the distance.
11. Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater, Java
Wake in the middle of the night to take a sunrise tour of Mount Bromo. Known as one of the most active volcanoes in the world and a great place to visit in Indonesia. Therefore, watch the sunrise from the viewpoint looking over Mount Bromo, with the clouds lying beneath you and the sun rising over the top of the volcano.
A few hours away is Ijen crater where, at night, you can witness blue flames from the crater caused by burning sulfur. An experience you will never forget!
12. The surf scene and beaches of Uluwatu, Indonesia
Discover the best surf and beaches on mainland Bali down south. Uluwatu, nicknamed the Bukit (hill), is a stunning limestone cliff region surrounded by white-sand beaches, surf, and viewpoints overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Experience the heart of Bali’s surf scene here as surfing enthusiasts gather from all over the world due to its deep blue waters and infamous waves.
Don’t leave without experiencing the unusual ‘Kecak Fire Dance’. It is where locals use the mediums of dance and song to tell a celebrated story. Watching this local custom, sitting atop a cliff overlooking the ocean at sunset, is a moment to be remembered.
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Just moved to Jakarta and can’t wait to check a few of these off my list!
so exciting! Enjoy your new city :)