Things to do in Indonesia
Enter the dragon
The wildlife in Indonesia is as intriguing as the archipelago itself with every region differing in habitat, climate and the weird and wonderful creatures that dwell there.
There an inordinate number of things to do in Indonesia: it’s home to some of the rarest creatures in the world including the miniature deer that stands at just 35cm, fish that climb trees to catch insects (no, really), and crafty spiders that catch and devour small birds in their giant webs. The Tanjung Puting National Park is all about making your way slowly into the jungle along the misty river to spot orangutans, gibbons and long-tailed macaques; Sumatra is where the majestic elephant treads alongside mischievous monkeys; and Tangui, an orangutan release center in Indonesian Borneo flutters with the colourful wings of its unique birdlife and some beautiful rare butterflies.
Of course, there is only one King in Indonesia and that’s the Komodo dragon – the stuff of legend, it is the world’s biggest lizard and lives among the savannah in eastern Indonesia’s untouched islands, Rinca and Komodo. Known locally as ‘ora’, they hunt alone and satiate their enormous appetites with huge animals like deer and even buffalo.
There an inordinate number of things to do in Indonesia: it’s home to some of the rarest creatures in the world including the miniature deer that stands at just 35cm, fish that climb trees to catch insects (no, really), and crafty spiders that catch and devour small birds in their giant webs. The Tanjung Puting National Park is all about making your way slowly into the jungle along the misty river to spot orangutans, gibbons and long-tailed macaques; Sumatra is where the majestic elephant treads alongside mischievous monkeys; and Tangui, an orangutan release center in Indonesian Borneo flutters with the colourful wings of its unique birdlife and some beautiful rare butterflies.
Of course, there is only one King in Indonesia and that’s the Komodo dragon – the stuff of legend, it is the world’s biggest lizard and lives among the savannah in eastern Indonesia’s untouched islands, Rinca and Komodo. Known locally as ‘ora’, they hunt alone and satiate their enormous appetites with huge animals like deer and even buffalo.
Our Indonesia Vacations
Java and Bali vacation in Indonesia
An adventurous tailor-made journey through Java, Indonesia
From
£1846
14 days
ex flights
Kayaking vacation in Indonesia, Komodo Dragon tour
Sea kayaking to some of the most remote beaches on earth
From
£2395
10 days
ex flights
Sulawesi vacation, 13 days
A unique insight into the fascinating island of Sulawesi.
From
£1899
13 days
ex flights
Cultural vacation in Indonesia
Traditional culture, stunning scenery and unusual wildlife
From
£2145 to £2365
15 days
ex flights
Highlights of Indonesia small group tour
Prepare to be dazzled by incredible Indonesia
From
US $4025 to US $4340
22 days
ex flights
Komodo and Flores vacation in Indonesia
See indigenous wildlife and stay in eco-accommodation
From
US $5700
15 days
ex flights
Kayak into the jungle
If you crave adventure, want a thought provoking dose of cultural immersion, and love a physical challenge, but relish the idea of moments of absolute relaxation too, there is no better way to journey along Indonesia’s atmospheric waterways than by kayak.Paddling a sea kayak deep into Indonesia’s jungle, reaching places where two feet just can’t get, drifting between remote beaches, uninhabited islands and visiting local stilted villages along the way in one of the very best things to do in Indonesia. The aim of any kayaking expedition into the jungle is to catch a glimpse of the mighty Komodo dragon, incredible animals that you’ll get to observe from a truly unique standpoint, alongside buffalo, monkey, and wild pigs and you make your way to safety and release some adrenalin with a swim or a snorkel above ethereal coral reefs.
Showcasing the best of Bali’s culture, the Pura Taman Saraswati temple is a striking and intricate carved complex set beyond a garden of pretty lotus blossoms.![]()
Tour the temples
Java’s temples are not just sensational to look at, but they tell a physical tale of Buddhism and Hinduism living peacefully side-by-side as shown by the proximity of Prambanan, the celestial, turreted Hindu temple, to the magnificent Borobudur, the largest Buddhist building in the world and a manmade cluster of arches, stupas and statues.
Our top Indonesia Vacation
Java and Bali vacation in Indonesia
An adventurous tailor-made journey through Java, Indonesia
From
£1846
14 days
ex flights
Tailor made:
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
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Trek through paddy fields, watch endangered birds flock, or learn a new skill at a local craft workshop – Indonesia’s quieter side packs an almighty punch.![]()
Explore the road less travelled
Off-the-beaten track Indonesia is all about getting under the skin of the country – exploring the central mountain region of laidback Ubud, the summits of dormant volcanoes across the cool northern slopes of Mount Batukaru, or cycling around the enigmatic Ulun Danu Temple on Lake Bratan, which can often be seen so shrouded in mist that it appears to float on the water.
More about Indonesia
The best time to visit Indonesia is between April and October for warm, dry weather.
Our Indonesia travel guide aims to point responsible travelers in the right direction when it comes to what we rate & what we don’t as well as all the information you need on food, shopping & people to assist in your quest to discover Indonesia like a local.
Our interactive map of highlights features everywhere from Kalimantan and Sulawesi to Java, Komodo and Lombok.
Despite its enduring popularity, it’s still possible to find a quiet slice of life in Bali away from the hectic beach resorts.
If you’re getting into Game of Thrones or can’t forget Smaug from The Hobbit, there’s only one thing to do – set sail on a Komodo dragon tour.
Lombok’s a laid-back place with deserted beaches from where to surf, swim or snorkel over coral, and a majestic mountain at its core to challenge travelers in search of hardy hikes.
Sea kayaking in the Komodo Islands is a chance to be immersed in nature, paddling your way to remote corners of this beautiful national park.
Sulawesi is a legendary destination for diving and snorkelling, especially off its volcanic northern peninsula, but just as rewarding for visitors are its thick tracts of jungle, rugged mountains and proud traditional cultures.
Sumatra delivers big when it comes to both natural beauty and cultural wonders, from otherworldly volcanoes to ancient sites to the tropical jungle that orangutans call home.
Yogyakarta, on the island of Java, is a city of two parts, with a modern, busy side but with age-old customs and traditional arts living on in the ancient old walled town known as the kraton.
There are loads of activities for families in Indonesia, from hiking around volcanoes to horseback riding to snorkelling.
Read on for a few tips from our friends in Indonesia, including how to avoid overcrowded beaches and how to travel safely.
Weigh up development vs poverty, find out more about palm oil and research what you can do to help when it comes to animal rights.
Find all of our Indonesia guides in one place, including guides to Bali, Borneo, Raja Ampat and orangutan watching.
