Things to see and do in Indonesia

Indonesia is a land of adventure, wonder, and excitement. With over 17,000 islands and 300 ethnic groups, this country is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The moment you step foot in Indonesia, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant colours, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals.

For those seeking adventure, Indonesia has plenty to offer. You can hike through lush rainforests, encounter exotic wildlife, or go white-water rafting on raging rivers. Sumatra island is particularly popular for its wildlife, where you can see orangutans, tigers, and elephants in their natural habitat. And for those who enjoy that which lies underwater, Indonesia is a paradise for scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing. It is also one of the destinations for our desert island survival expeditions.

In Indonesia, you’ll find a world of beauty, excitement, and cultural richness. From the bustling cities to the pristine beaches, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Indonesia.

Where is INDONESIA?

Indonesia is a country located in Southeast Asia and Oceania, between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is the world’s largest island country. Indonesia shares land borders with Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Malaysia and maritime borders with Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, and India. With a population of over 270 million people, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world and is known for its diverse culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cuisine.

Interesting Facts about INDONESIA

Here are a few interesting facts about Indonesia:

• It is the world’s largest archipelago, consisting of over 17,000 islands, with only about 6,000 of them inhabited.
• The national motto of Indonesia is ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’, which means ‘Unity in Diversity’. This reflects the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural makeup.
• Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world, with a population of over 270 million people.
• The country has over 300 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own language and customs.
• Bali, one of Indonesia’s most famous islands, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unique Hindu culture.
• Indonesia is home to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia Arnoldii, which can grow up to three feet in diameter.
• The country is home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, which can grow up to 10 feet long.
• The country has the highest number of active volcanoes in the world, with over 120.
• Indonesia is home to the world’s largest gold mine, the Grasberg mine, located in Papua province.

Getting to Indonesia

Getting to Indonesia is relatively easy, with numerous international airports throughout the country. The main international airports are Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya. Flights from major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America usually have one or more stops along the way.

You can also enter the country by sea, with ferry services connecting neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Timor-Leste. However, these services may not be as frequent or reliable as air travel.

To find the best flight options and prices, we recommend using flight connections interactive map and the Hopper app. Google flights is our favourite flight search engine, however, we always recommend booking directly with the airline once you have found your flights as you will have a preferential cancellation policy and better upgrade potential.

To minimize the effects of jet lag during your trip to Indonesia, we recommend using the Timeshifter app to adjust your sleeping schedule and taking melatonin before departure (where possible). Indonesia is located at GMT+7, so exposure to sunlight during the day can help regulate your body clock, but it may take a few days to fully adjust.

We also recommend you check out the UK Foreign Travel Advice Website.

Getting to Batam

For our Desert Island Survival expeditions we need to get to Batam, the starting point for this adventure. Batam is an island city located in the Riau Islands Province of Indonesia, just a short ferry ride away from Singapore and Malaysia. So here are a few options on how to get there.

By ferry: The most common way to get to Batam is by ferry. There are regular ferry services from Singapore, Johor Bahru in Malaysia, and several other cities in Indonesia. The ferry journey from Singapore takes around 40-50 minutes, while the journey from Johor Bahru takes around 2 hours.

From Singapore we use Batam Fast. Ferries are hourly and a return tickets to Batam centre from ‘Harbour front’ costs £44.

By air: Batam also has its own international airport (BTH) with direct flights from the following airports. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to your destination on the island. When you arrive you can use the taxi apps Grab or Uber. 

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

Indonesia is a country that’s worth visiting at any time of the year. But if you’re looking for the best time to go, it really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re a beach lover and want to soak up the sun, then the best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which is from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities. Note, we run our expedition from April to October.

If you’re more of a culture vulture and want to explore Indonesia’s rich history and heritage, then you might want to plan your trip during the wet season, which runs from October to April. Sure, you might encounter some rain, but that shouldn’t dampen your spirits as there are plenty of things to do indoors, such as visiting museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks.

And let’s not forget about the festivals! Indonesia is known for its vibrant and colourful festivals, which are held throughout the year. From the Baliem Valley Festival in Papua to the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival in Bali, there’s always something exciting and unique happening in Indonesia.

Things to do in Indonesia

Explore the beaches: Indonesia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Bali, to Lombok, to Flores, you’ll find white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and great surf spots.

Visit the temples: Indonesia is a country with a deep spiritual heritage, and visiting its ancient temples is a great way to learn about its history and culture. Borobudur and Prambanan in Java, and Tanah Lot and Uluwatu in Bali are just a few examples of must-visit temples.

Try the local cuisine: Indonesian cuisine is a fusion of different flavours and ingredients from around the world. Be sure to try some of the local specialties such as nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled meat skewers), and rendang (spicy beef curry).

Go on a trekking adventure: Indonesia is home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. From the jungles of Sumatra to the volcanoes of Java and Bali, there are plenty of trekking routes to explore.

Visit the Komodo National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. You can go on a guided tour to see these majestic creatures up close and personal.

Shop at the local markets: Indonesia’s markets are a feast for the senses. From colourful fabrics to exotic spices to intricate handicrafts, there’s something for everyone.

Attend a cultural festival: Indonesia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and there are numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. From the Bali Arts Festival to the Torana Funeral Ceremony in Sulawesi, there’s always something to celebrate in Indonesia.

Ultimate adventure: Join us for an exciting island survival expedition where you’ll learn essential bushcraft skills on an uninhabited island. Put yourself to the ultimate test and see if you have what it takes, during the 72-hour survival phase.

Where to stay in Indonesia

Indonesia offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Indonesia:

Bali: Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, villas, budget guesthouses, and backpacker hostels.

Lombok: This beautiful island located just east of Bali offers stunning beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere than its popular neighbour. Visitors can stay in luxury resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses and enjoy the island’s natural beauty and local culture.

Yogyakarta: This cultural city in central Java is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples. Visitors can stay in charming guesthouses and boutique hotels located within walking distance of these attractions.

Mentawai: Is a collection of picturesque desert island famed for its perfect surf conditions. There are an atray of very cool surf lodges to check out here.

Sulawesi: Boasts some of the best diving in Indonesia, including the famous critter diving within Lembeh straits.

Raja Ampat: This remote archipelago located off the coast of West Papua offers some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling opportunities. Visitors can stay in eco-resorts and enjoy the pristine beauty of this natural paradise.

Bandung: This vibrant city in West Java is known for its unique architecture, local food, and cool climate. Visitors can stay in boutique hotels and guesthouses and explore the city’s cultural attractions and natural beauty.

Where to stay in BATAM

Nagoya: This is the main commercial district in Batam, and it offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Visitors can stay in luxury hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses, and mid-range apartments. Nagoya is also home to several shopping centres and restaurants.

Waterfront City: Located on the north coast of Batam, Waterfront City is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful environment. Visitors can stay in beachfront villas or resorts and enjoy water activities like snorkelling and kayaking.

Batam Centre: This is the main transportation hub in Batam, and it offers easy access to the ferry terminals and the airport. Visitors can stay in modern hotels and serviced apartments and explore the nearby attractions like the Mega Mall Batam Centre and the Ocarina Park.

Nongsa: This is a coastal area located on the northeast side of Batam, and it offers some of the island’s most luxurious resorts and villas. Visitors can enjoy the stunning sea views and indulge in spa treatments and other leisure activities.

Sekupang: This area is located on the west coast of Batam, and it offers a more rustic and authentic Indonesian experience. Visitors can stay in traditional guesthouses or homestays and explore the local fishing villages and markets.

Indonesia Food and Drinks

Indonesian cuisine is a mouth-watering fusion of spices, flavours, and cultural influences. From street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone in Indonesia. Here are some of the delicious food and drink options you can indulge in during your visit.

Nasi Goreng is a national staple and a must-try dish. This delicious fried rice dish is cooked with a blend of spices and topped with a fried egg, crispy shallots, and your choice of meat or vegetables. It’s a perfect comfort food that will warm your heart and soul.

Satay is another popular dish, consisting of skewered grilled meat served with a peanut sauce dip. Chicken and beef are the most popular meats used, but you can also find seafood and vegetarian options.

For dessert (island survival), try the traditional Indonesian dessert called Es Cendol. It’s a refreshing and sweet treat made with coconut milk, palm sugar, and green jelly noodles. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

When it comes to drinks, Indonesia offers a wide range of options. Tehbotol Sosro is a popular bottled tea that can be found in every corner store. It’s a refreshing and sweet tea that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up.

Indonesia is also famous for its coffee. Kopi Luwak, also known as civet coffee, is a rare and expensive coffee made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats. It might sound strange, but it’s said to produce a unique and flavorful coffee that’s worth trying at least once.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the arak, a traditional Indonesian liquor made from fermented coconut flower sap. It’s a potent drink that’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and explore the rich and diverse culinary scene of Indonesia.

Indonesia Wildlife

Indonesia is a wild and wondrous wonderland that’s packed with all kinds of critters, from orangutans to Komodo dragons. Hold onto your hats, because we’re about to take a closer look at some of the incredible animals you can meet during your visit to this biodiverse paradise.

Let’s start with the orangutans. These brainy primates are the bee’s knees, and you can only find them hanging around in the wild on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. If you want to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures, head on over to one of the orangutan conservation centres and discover the great work being done to protect them.

Now, let’s talk about the real heavyweights of Indonesia’s wildlife scene: the mighty Komodo dragons! These colossal lizards are the biggest in the world, and they can only be found on a handful of islands in Indonesia, including (unsuprisingly) Komodo Island. With their fearsome hunting skills and ancient-looking scales, these beasts are sure to give you a thrill.

But wait, there’s more! Indonesia is also home to a colourful cast of feathered friends, including the Javan hawk-eagle, Bali myna, and the Sulawesi hornbill. For all you bird nerds out there, Indonesia is the perfect place to indulge your passion and spot some rare and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

If you prefer to get your kicks underwater, Indonesia has got you covered too. The coral reefs around Bali, Flores, and Komodo are the bomb when it comes to diving and snorkeling. Swim with manta rays, glide alongside sea turtles, and marvel at the rainbow-colored tropical fish.

Last but not least, Indonesia is home to a whole host of other mammals, including the Sumatran tiger, Javan rhinoceros, and the proboscis monkey. While these critters can be tricky to spot in the wild, you can still learn about their conservation efforts and maybe even catch a glimpse of them at a wildlife sanctuary or conservation centre.

So what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime and experience the jaw-dropping beauty and diversity of Indonesia’s wildlife.

And check out our other travel guides.