A trip to Indonesia will exceed all your expectations!
This vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands stretches between the Indian and Pacific Oceans and offers striking contrasts: ancient temples, active volcanoes, lush rainforests, dreamy beaches, and a rich mix of cultures living in harmony.
From the spiritual energy of Bali to the wild nature of Borneo and the buzz of Jakarta, Indonesia might just be the most complete and surprising destination in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re an adventure lover or looking to relax on a tropical beach, you’ll find your paradise here.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Indonesia has a tropical climate and stays warm all year round, with two main seasons:
- Dry season (May to September): the best time to visit, ideal for hiking, diving, and outdoor activities
- Rainy season (October to April): expect heavy but often brief downpours during the day
Our top recommendation? Plan your trip between June and September for the best weathe, especially in Bali, Java, Sulawesi, and the Lesser Sunda Islands.
Top 10 places to visit in Indonesia
It’s hard to pick just a few places in such a breathtaking country, but we’ve narrowed it down to the 10 destinations you absolutely can’t miss.
Bali
Indonesia’s most iconic and beloved destination! Bali has it all: sacred temples, lush rice terraces, world-class surf beaches, and a vibrant nightlife.
Ubud is the cultural heart of the island, while Seminyak and Canggu are perfect for relaxing in stylish beach clubs.
Don’t miss Tanah Lot temple, especially at sunset!
Java (Yogyakarta and Borobudur)
The most populated island in Indonesia, Java is a spiritual and cultural gem. Yogyakarta is known for its batik art, creative vibe, and delicious food.
Visit the majestic Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and the impressive Hindu temple complex of Prambanan.
Nature lovers will also enjoy the volcanic landscapes of Mount Bromo.
Komodo and the Flores Islands
Home to the legendary Komodo dragon, often called the last living dinosaur! This area offers pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, and breathtaking hikes, like the one to the top of Padar Island for a jaw-dropping panoramic view.
Raja Ampat
A remote paradise in West Papua, and one of the best diving spots on the planet.
Raja Ampat’s coral reefs host one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. You can get there by domestic flights or boat.
This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for true explorers—if you have an Indiana Jones spirit, don’t skip Raja Ampat!
Lombok and the Gili Islands
With the mighty Mount Rinjani at its center and peaceful beaches, Lombok is a more authentic alternative to Bali.
Nearby Gili Islands are perfect for a slow-paced stay: snorkeling with colorful fish, relaxing in boho beach bars, and no cars, ust bikes and horse-drawn carts!
Borneo (Kalimantan)
One of the oldest rainforests in the world is found here.
Hop on a river cruise and spot wild orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park.
An unmissable experience for nature and wildlife lovers.
Sulawesi
A fascinating and mysterious island where you can meet traditional tribal communities and explore incredible marine life.
Don’t miss Tana Toraja, known for its elaborate funeral rituals and unique boat-shaped houses.
The waters of Bunaken and Wakatobi are perfect for diving.
Sumatra
Perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Home to the rare Sumatran tiger, dense rainforests, active volcanoes, and Lake Toba—the world’s largest volcanic lake.
Start an unforgettable jungle trek from Bukit Lawang to spot wild orangutans.
West Java (Bandung and Kawah Putih)
Surrounded by tea plantations and hills, Bandung is known as the “Paris of Java.”
Nearby, the volcanic crater lake of Kawah Putih is one of the most photogenic places in Indonesia, with its surreal milky turquoise water and misty forest surroundings.
Nusa Penida
Just a short ferry ride from Bali, this wild island is home to dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches.
Kelingking Beach is probably the most Instagrammed spot in the entire country.
A perfect day trip or nature escape!
10 unforgettable activities to try in Indonesia
Now that you know the must-visit destinations, here are the top activities to make your trip truly unforgettable:
- Snorkel with manta rays in Nusa Penida
- Hike to the crater of Mount Bromo at sunrise
- Watch a traditional Balinese dance in Ubud
- Swim in the pink beach waters of Komodo
- Visit a Toraja village and learn about their ancient rituals
- Relax in a luxury Gili resort with no traffic around
- Trek through the jungle of Bukit Lawang in search of orangutans
- Dive among vibrant coral reefs in Raja Ampat
- Explore a local market in Yogyakarta
- Cruise down a river in Borneo looking for wild orangutans
How to stay connected in Indonesia
Internet access is essential when traveling around Indonesia—to navigate, book transport, translate signs, and share your adventures with family and friends!
Here are your main options:
- Public Wi-Fi: sometimes available, but often unreliable and insecure—especially on remote islands
- Local SIM cards: available at airports or in cities, but it can be tricky to find the best deal or get connected right away
- International roaming: convenient but often very limited and expensive
- eSIM Indonesia: easy to use, available before departure, and active as soon as you land—with affordable rates!
Why choose an eSIM for Indonesia?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card, so you don’t need to replace your physical one. Just choose a plan, scan the QR code you receive by email, install the eSIM on your smartphone (check compatibility here), and activate it once you arrive in Indonesia.
No need to hunt for stores or compare local rates. No risk of staying offline at the wrong moment.
Where to buy your eSIM?
At www.esim.sm you’ll find some of the best prices online and a wide range of plans to fit your needs.
Choose between eSIM Indonesia plans (from 1GB to 100GB) or go for a global plan that lets you pay only for the data you use, valid in 155 countries!
With eSIM.sm, you can also:
- Purchase your plan up to 30 days before departure
- Activate it before your flight or once you land
- Avoid expensive roaming charges
- Stay safely connected across the country
- Get 24/7 support in your language
Travel tips for Indonesia
- Traffic and transport: it can get hectic, install local apps like Grab to get around easily
- Payments: cards are accepted in popular tourist spots, but always carry some Indonesian Rupiah for remote areas
- Drinking water: never drink tap water, buy sealed bottles only
- Mosquitoes: check recommended vaccines and carry repellent
- Cultural etiquette: cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, and remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a sacred site
- Electricity: Indonesia uses European-style plugs (types C and F), check the voltage compatibility of your devices
