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Few countries can rival Indonesia when it comes to cultural richness, breathtaking natural wonders, stunning coastlines, and unforgettable food. Each island brings its own flavor to all of these elements, and that's what makes the place so magical. Some are wildlife paradises, others are surfer and diver havens, and a few hide ancient sacred sites waiting to be discovered.
No matter if you crave outdoor adventure or simply want to lounge on the sand, this roundup has you covered. Below are fifty must-do activities across Indonesia, sorted by island, to spark ideas and add variety to your travel plans:
Most travelers begin their Indonesian journey in Jakarta, the sprawling capital sitting on the island of Java. The following picks highlight the very best of Java, from iconic temples to smoking volcanoes:
1. Climb Mount Bromo on Your Own
Countless operators run sunrise jeep excursions to Mount Bromo, yet trekking to the summit solo offers a distinctive and satisfying adventure. You'll keep extra cash in your wallet while gaining freedom to set your own pace, which heightens the thrill. The trail is gentler than several other Indonesian volcano climbs, though the panoramic payoff at the peak is equally spectacular. Find a complete walkthrough for tackling Mount Bromo without a guide service.
2. Linger a Day in Surabaya
Surabaya flies under the radar compared to other Indonesian hotspots, but given that most visitors overnight here either before or after summiting Mount Bromo, you might be pleasantly surprised by its welcoming atmosphere and lack of foreign crowds. Travelers from across the archipelago gravitate toward Surabaya for its standout street food scene. Hit up G-Walk and Pasar Atum for memorable meals and prime people-watching.
3. Wander Through Borobudur Temple
Borobudur Temple dazzles both in pictures and in real life. This UNESCO-listed marvel stands as a significant testament to Buddhist heritage and easily justifies its USD 25 ticket price. The sheer scale and intricate stonework echo the magnificence of Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Gates open from 6am to 5pm every day, though photographers should reserve a dawn tour through a licensed operator, or lodge at the Manohara Resort (the sole property permitted to distribute pre-dawn passes) for early access.
4. Tour Candi Prambanan Temple
Prambanan Temple holds the title of Indonesia's biggest Hindu sanctuary. According to legend, it was erected in the 9th century to supplant Borobudur and the Buddhist faith as Hinduism gained prominence. Many tour itineraries bundle Borobudur and Prambanan into a single day, and you needn't fret about temple fatigue since the two complexes look nothing alike. Prambanan consists of separate shrines honoring Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
5. Tackle Mount Ijen Solo
Mount Ijen ranked as the standout highlight of my initial nine-month Southeast Asian expedition back in 2013. Navigating it without a guide posed its own hurdles since online resources were thin and Kawah Ijen sits somewhat off the tourist trail. Here's a comprehensive manual for summiting Mount Ijen independently. Whatever you do, catch the blue fire phenomenon and sunrise—those two moments alone make the journey extraordinary.
6. Hunt Waterfalls Near Puwokerto at Baturaden
Though beloved by domestic travelers, foreign tourists rarely make it to the Baturaden Waterfalls because the location isn't easy to reach. However, if you've rented a motorbike, the falls are only roughly 30 minutes from Puwokerto. Toss in a swimsuit, snacks, and refreshments and you're set. Local families often bring their children on weekends, so time your visit based on whether you crave solitude or a lively crowd experience.
7. Trek the Dieng Plateau
Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen have earned every bit of their fame and absolutely deserve spots on your Indonesia itinerary. For a trek that remains under the radar for now (though that probably won't last), weave the Dieng Plateau into your plans. This unusual volcanic formation treats visitors to verdant rolling hills, vividly colored crater lakes, and naturally, smoking peaks. This post delivers a thorough breakdown for exploring Dieng Plateau without a guide.
8. Descend to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
A post shared by Jerre Stead (@selcouth_vagary) on Jul 15, 2018 at 5:26pm PDT
Java hosts numerous cascades, but Tumpak Sewu might just be the most breathtaking. Once a guarded local treasure, the secret surfaced after travel vloggers and Instagram creators launched drones overhead to capture its raw beauty. You can enlist a local guide to escort you to a viewpoint or venture independently for an intimate encounter. The trail to the base is steep, slick, and somewhat risky, so use your judgment and avoid moves that feel unsafe.
9. Survive Jakarta's Wild Traffic
This megacity feels unlike any other corner of Indonesia. It's a whirlwind of activity, evolving at breakneck speed with gleaming towers and enormous shopping complexes. It serves as a solid base for a few nights between jungle treks and island getaways. Beyond retail therapy and excellent dining, the capital is infamous for its chaotic roadways. A trip that should take half an hour can easily stretch into three (genuinely!). It's one way to soak up local life—just hope your driver has a good playlist to keep you entertained.
Bali reigns as Indonesia's most-visited island, celebrated for its stellar waves, abundance of private pool villas, distinctive spirituality, and Ubud's bohemian energy paired with the upscale buzz of Nusa Dua. Despite being heavily touristed, Bali still harbors tucked-away corners, fantastic eateries, and gorgeous offshore islets worth seeking out.
10. Unwind at a Stunning Pool Villa
Bali overflows with gorgeous villas and resorts, making the selection process downright dizzying. The smartest approach is to lock down a budget first and then filter by guest ratings. Many properties feature private pools, floating breakfasts, in-room spa treatments, and countless other perks. I'm generally not a luxury traveler but can absolutely endorse a splurge here and there, and Bali is hands-down the finest spot in Indonesia to treat yourself. Personally, I booked Komaneka Resort and adored the quiet black-sand shoreline on-site, equally enchanted by soaking in rose-scented water and savoring an adorable floating breakfast in the pool.
11. Pick Up Surfing
Bali delivers the ideal playground for anyone itching to learn how to surf. If you've been wanting to try something new, why not take advantage of your time here? Browse this thorough primer on learning to surf in Bali for additional insights.
12. Try Vegan for a Day (It's Shockingly Easy and Tasty!)
I shifted toward a mostly vegan lifestyle recently, and the transition has been unexpectedly smooth and delicious. Indonesia marked the very first nation I explored as a vegan, and I was blown away by the variety. From staples like tempeh and gado gado to inventive plant-based cafés and mainstream restaurants offering extensive vegan menus, I was utterly spoiled. Whether you embrace veganism or not, dedicating a day to plant-based eating is a delightful culinary adventure. Check out this lineup of Bali's finest vegan eats that any food lover should prioritize!
13. Taste Authentic Balinese Dishes
For the non-vegans, I've got you sorted too. Sure, with cafés sprouting on virtually every corner, you could theoretically spend your entire Bali vacation eating "Western" fare—but what's the adventure in that? Balinese cuisine stands apart from anything else in Indonesia. Satay stole my heart—perfectly grilled skewered meat dunked in peanut sauce is practically heaven on earth. Other Balinese classics worth sampling include Babi Guling ("rolling pork"), Tempeh (fermented soybean cake), and the ever-iconic Nasi Goreng (fried rice).
14. Trek to Sekumpul Waterfall
Previously a quiet Bali secret, Sekumpul Waterfall now shares top billing alongside Aling Aling Waterfall as the island's premier cascades. Both are magnificent, and while both can technically fit into a single day trip (roughly two hours by car from Ubud), spending a night in Bedugul makes for a more relaxed experience.
15. Hit a Beach Club for All-Night Dancing
You're on Bali, after all! Hot beach clubs worth checking out include Potato Head Beach Club and Ku De Ta in Seminyak, plus Old Man's Bar and Finn's Beach Club over in Canggu.
16. Summit Mount Batur
Mount Batur can be reached from any corner of Bali. Beyond the brutal 2am wake-up call, the ascent itself is relatively easy compared to Mount Rinjani or Mount Lombok, and the entire experience wraps up in a single morning.
17. Join a Yoga Retreat
No Bali trip feels complete without some rejuvenating yoga. Roll out your mat at one of the island's many studios. The Yoga Barn in Ubud features multiple gorgeous practice spaces within their grounds, along with an on-site café, hostel rooms, and private lodging options. Beyond daily drop-in classes, they host retreats and certification courses for the dedicated. If you're based in Canggu, swing by The Practice.
18. Brave the Devil on Nusa Lembongan
Devil's Tear on Nusa Lembongan unleashes waves crashing against rock formations, creating a spectacular show when the swell surges and the tide peaks. The display of raw nature is especially striking during golden hour at high tide! Personally, I find the adjacent tide pools even more mesmerizing, but you should experience both and form your own opinion. Browse this full rundown of Nusa Lembongan.
19. Admire the Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan
If I hadn't witnessed it firsthand, I'd struggle to fathom that such an electric baby blue exists in tropical waters. The Blue Lagoon stole the spotlight during my Nusa Ceningan visit. Tucked between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan is the tiniest of the three and, if I had to pick one, makes for an ideal day trip.
20. Photograph the T-Rex at Kelingking on Nusa Penida
You've likely encountered images of this T-Rex-shaped headland (or whale—it's honestly a bit of both!). It reigns as the island's most photographed spot, and deservedly so. The overlook genuinely delivers a jaw-dropping vista, but don't stop there—push yourself to make the steep descent to the pristine beach below. Ideally, budget a few days on the island since Nusa Penida offers much more beyond this single viewpoint. Explore my guide to the island's lesser-known corners here.
21. Sleep in an Actual Treehouse
My heart literally skipped when I stumbled upon this treehouse on Airbnb. Waking up at Rumah Pohon on Nusa Penida made me feel like Wendy from Peter Pan, and it remains one of the most enchanting places I've ever rested my head. Once word leaked out (my fault!), visitors have flooded the treehouse just for photos—most don't even spend the night, simply climbing the stairs for a quick shot. However, you'll only score the sunrise photo if you commit to an overnight stay. Wondering if it's worth a night? Check out my complete review of Rumah Pohon and weigh in for yourself.
22. Browse a Traditional Market
Enquire at your guesthouse about where local women shop for produce and visit the morning market in whichever Balinese region you're based. With any luck, they might even invite you along. I adored biting into sweet-tart mangoes while observing the vendors haggle with one another.
West Nusa Tenggara
This slice of Indonesia holds a special place in my heart and keeps drawing me back. To me, it captures the Bali that existed before Eat, Pray, Love transformed it—a quieter, more rural version. If you crave an authentic taste of Indonesia minus the crowds, this region delivers.
23. Sail Between Flores Island and Lombok on a Local Boat
Plenty of boat services connect Lombok and Flores Island, and the journey can be truly memorable. Options range from plush air-conditioned cabins to snuggling with fellow passengers under the stars on open-air decks—there's genuinely something for every traveler. These trips are entertaining and offer a unique adventure, though you should select a vetted operator since rough seas occasionally cause trouble and past incidents have included shipwrecks. I personally opted for the public ferry, which proved to be an adventure in its own right! Both options can be reserved in person for the most competitive rates.
24. Hike Mount Rinjani
Craving a serious physical test? Mount Rinjani won't disappoint. It ranked among the most grueling treks I've completed in Southeast Asia, yet also among the most unforgettable and rewarding. I penned a comprehensive guide on tackling Mount Rinjani on a shoestring here.
(Note: Sadly, a recent earthquake has devastated the northern part of this gorgeous island filled with wonderful people. If Lombok is in your near-future plans, please verify safety conditions in Northern Lombok with local officials.)
25. Book a Beach Bungalow
Affordable and adorable beach bungalows are abundant on Lombok, across the Gilis, and throughout Sumbawa, so why pass them up? Plus, you've definitely earned some downtime after the Mount Rinjani trek. Tons of listings populate Airbnb (here's $25 off if you book through this link!) and Booking.com (here's $30 off if you book through this link!).
26. Marvel at Tiu Kelep Waterfall
When I first landed in Lombok five years back, no one mentioned this waterfall. These days, it features on most Rinjani trekking packages. I can't complain though—it gave me an excuse to return! There's no better remedy for tired feet after a draining Mount Rinjani climb. It's both gorgeous and mighty.
27. Visit Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls
Northern Lombok actually boasts five distinct waterfalls. If you've got a full day to spare, I suggest hiring a driver or renting a motorbike if you're comfortable and ticking off all five.
28. Hike Bukit Pergasingan
This trail gifts you a far superior vantage point over the rice terraces! You can launch the hike at dawn or opt for an overnight trek. Enlisting a guide is wise for navigation. Anyone in Senaru can help you arrange it.
29. Gaze Over Rice Fields from Bukit Selong's Wooden Star
If Rinjani and Bukit Pergasingan feel overly ambitious, alternatives exist! The climb to the wooden star platform takes a mere five minutes. It's a cool spot and a perfect place to unwind after an early trek, or as a standalone outing in the area.
30. Hang Out at Semeti Beach
Most southern-facing beaches block sunset views, but Semeti Beach delivers! I had a blast scrambling over the rocks and exploring while waiting for the sun to dip below the horizon. The road is rough, but if you're steady on a motorbike, don't skip this one.
31. Have Tampah Beach All to Yourself
Tampah Beach claimed a top spot for me since it was the cleanest and quietest stretch in Kuta Lombok. In fact, I had the entire place to myself, so if you crave genuine solitude, you know exactly where to head.
More gorgeous Kuta, Lombok beaches here:
32. Take Up Paragliding
The Kuta region features rolling hills and curving bays seemingly tailor-made for paragliding, and the sport is genuinely gaining momentum. One prime location for catching sunset vistas is the Mandalika resort area, where Lombok Playground runs tandem flights.
33. Day-Trip to Sumbawa Island
If you're passionate about snorkeling, dream of surfing a wave shared by almost no one, or simply want a beach virtually all to yourself, hop on a boat to Sumbawa, Lombok's neighboring island.
34. Slow Down on the Gili Islands
The Gilis are tailor-made for unwinding, savoring great meals, and hopping between islands. Nothing compares to the golden shimmer of a Gili sunset washing over powdery white sand and lapping at the shallow shoreline. Many visitors capture the sunset from one of the iconic beach swings, which is charming. Here's a primer on Gili Air, my top pick of the trio, to kick things off.
35. Master Freediving
The Gilis are an outstanding launchpad for learning freediving. Each island hosts freediving schools, the water stays warm year-round, and the instructors are top-notch! Once you've nailed the basics, you can explore the submerged statues. Click here for a deeper dive into my time with Freedive Flow on Gili Air.
This ranks among my other beloved Indonesian corners, boasting world-class diving and some of the planet's most gorgeous beaches within Komodo National Park.
36. Encounter Komodo Dragons on Komodo Island
As the only spot on Earth where Komodo Dragons exist, it obviously deserves a place on any bucket list. Komodo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that nearly 2,000 Komodo Dragons call home. They roam the island unrestricted, can detect blood, and move with surprising speed. Always stick with the rangers during visits! Bonus points if you weave this into a liveaboard diving expedition.
37. Scuba Dive in Komodo National Park
I had the privilege of diving alongside manta rays during a six-day liveaboard excursion through Komodo National Park. To this day, I can vividly recall the enormous, majestic manta ray that glided right past me. It's a magical encounter you owe it to yourself to experience!
38. Embark on a Multi-Day Boat Journey Through Flores and Labuan Bajo
With abundant manta rays, varied shark species, sea turtles, pristine coral reefs, thrilling drift dives, and surreal underwater scenery—including a dive site packed with more fish species than the entire Caribbean—the Komodo Islands are a liveaboard dream. I had a fantastic experience sailing with Wicked Diving.
39. Venture to Sumba Island
Visiting Sumba Island feels like stepping into a time machine. Prepare to be awestruck by traditional thatched clan houses perched in hilltop villages, where the most ancient customs endure across generations. The powerful surf breaks here also attract serious wave riders. Though the island feels wonderfully remote, you'll be amazed to discover a surprising collection of high-end resorts and even a one-of-a-kind on-campus hospitality school staffed by local students. Whether your goal is immersing yourself in authentic indigenous culture while staying at a hotel that fosters local connections, or indulging in luxury alongside world-class surfing, Sumba Island delivers on every front.
For a road-less-traveled experience paired with world-class diving, set your sights on West Papua. It's isolated, but absolutely worth the effort.
40. Book a Liveaboard Diving Expedition in Raja Ampat, West Papua
It ranked among the finest journeys I've ever taken. That comes from someone who has been wandering the globe solo for the past six years. The diving was phenomenal, and cruising past Robinson Crusoe-esque islands—most completely uninhabited—had me grinning ear to ear daily. Click here to dive deeper into the liveaboard experience I booked.
41. Escape the Crowds in Arborek, Raja Ampat, West Papua
If you're chasing a genuine Raja Ampat immersion, lodging in Arborek Village—where residents have lived in their own world for generations—grants you a precious window into the authentic essence of West Papua. Here's a comprehensive guide to venturing off the grid in Arborek, Raja Ampat.
Another spectacular Indonesian frontier, Sumatra is renowned as one of the planet's rare sanctuaries for spotting wild orangutans. It's also a magnet for big-wave surfers seeking uncrowded breaks, plus some of the country's most isolated regions.
42. Spot Orangutans in the Wild
To witness orangutans, make your way to Bukit Lawang in Sumatra. The majority of orangutans you'll encounter are "semi-wild," meaning they were likely orphaned, went through rehabilitation programs, and were eventually returned to the forest. Visiting their territory also helps protect their habitat as we demonstrate to local authorities that this can be a sustainable revenue stream.
43. Mingle with Locals in Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is a small trekking hub in northern Sumatra. Most travelers breeze through, treating it as a stopover before or after their jungle expedition. As a result, fewer tourists linger, so locals tend to be far more welcoming and inquisitive. The town itself is pleasant, but it's the warm residents who truly make it shine.
44. Witness a Lake on an Island in a Lake on an Island
Wait, what? That was my immediate reaction when someone pitched the idea of visiting a lake on an island inside a lake on an island. That's Lake Toba in a nutshell, and the sheer curiosity was enough to lure me in. It's tranquil and serene, with cool, crisp air that I welcomed after sweating through other parts of Southeast Asia.
45. Discover Indonesia's Tallest Waterfall
Sipiso Piso Waterfall claims the title of the country's tallest cascade. Unsurprisingly, the falls are nothing less than spectacular and awe-inspiring. Combine Lake Toba mentioned above with Sipiso Piso Waterfall for a memorable two-day excursion.
46. Climb Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak is one of two active volcanoes near Berastagi. The climb isn't technically demanding, though hiring a guide is smart for navigation. Kick off your trek in the early hours since daytime temperatures can become punishing.
47. Scuba Dive Around Weh Island
Weh Island is a dream for divers seeking to explore a secluded underwater paradise away from the typical tourist trail. The dive sites are stunning yet receive a fraction of the visitors that other Indonesian islands attract, as the island offers limited entertainment beyond diving. It's Sumatra's hidden gem, so if you're passionate about diving, put it on your radar!
48. Explore Labengki Island in Southeast Sulawesi
It's currently one of Indonesia's most closely guarded secrets. Reaching it requires flying into Kendari Airport, grabbing a taxi to the port, and catching a boat to the island. Infrastructure is minimal, and tourism is just beginning to take off, so getting around may require patience and flexibility. The payoff? A genuinely authentic and unforgettable Indonesian island escape. Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me!
49. Trace the Original Spice Islands
The Maluku islands once attracted plenty of visitors until religious conflict erupted in 1999. The islands saw minimal tourism afterward. This forgotten gem is paradise for travelers craving a truly off-the-grid Indonesian adventure. While you could catch a local flight to Neira Banda Neira, a far more memorable way to reach the original spice islands is aboard the massive cargo ship, Pelni Ship. On the islands, give yourself ample time and embrace serendipity to truly soak in the forgotten splendor of the Maluku islands.
50. Challenge Yourself to Backpack Indonesia on a Tight Budget
Summer love with Bali – The Fashion Fruit
You could easily spend anywhere from two weeks to two months in Indonesia and still barely scratch the surface. Perhaps the greatest perk of traveling here is that regardless of how long you stay, exploring Indonesia on a tight budget is entirely feasible. During my 2013 backpacking stint across Southeast Asia, I managed on $30 a day and still experienced everything I wanted. Pushing yourself to travel a country on limited funds doesn't just pad your savings—it sparks creativity too.
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Feeling inspired to embark on an Indonesian adventure? Hopefully this roundup introduced you to some incredible activities and destinations you hadn't considered before, and broadened your horizons! Indonesia is ideal for extended exploration across multiple months—or multiple trips. It's a destination I keep returning to and never grow weary of.
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