In this one-month Indonesia Itinerary, I’ll cover everything you need to know for the perfect trip, with a mix of adventure, beautiful beaches, and the best ways to explore. There’s a famous fact that people like to reference when talking about Indonesia: it’s made up of more than 17,000 islands. If you’re wondering where to begin in such a vast country, this one-month Indonesia itinerary will help you plan your perfect trip, from where and when to go to how to get around.
Indonesia stretches for more than 5,000 kilometres between the Indian and Pacific Oceans – that’s more than the length of Europe! Perhaps it’s no surprise then that the country is incredibly diverse in both landscape and wildlife. From dense jungle to bubbling volcanoes and pounding surf, Indonesia is an adventure-seeker’s dream. It’s also one of only 17 megadiverse countries in the world, meaning it’s home to hundreds of unique species, both on land and in the ocean. Wildlife lovers, rejoice! For travellers who enjoy more spirituality than adrenaline, the country’s most famous island, Bali, delivers in spades.
Indonesia truly has something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking to catch some waves, catch a glimpse of the world’s largest lizard, or catch a few rays on the beach, here’s everything you need to know when planning your Indonesia itinerary.
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. Simply open the Google Map on your device and all my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
When to Visit Indonesia
Indonesia spans the equator and therefore enjoys a tropical climate. This means the country generally has two seasons: wet and dry.
The dry season typically runs from around April to October. This is the best time for enjoying island life and the country’s countless beach destinations. It’s also the best time for outdoor adventures, including hiking, wildlife-spotting and diving. July and August (along with Christmas and New Year) are peak season and best avoided if you don’t like crowds or hiked-up prices.
The wet season falls around November to March. Despite the occasional burst of rain, this can be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lush green countryside. However, be warned that heavy or prolonged downpours can severely disrupt travel.
The temperature is hot year-round, but it can plummet at night in hilly regions – layers are a must on volcano hikes! Good news for surfers: there are surfable waves during both wet and dry seasons.
How to Get to Indonesia
Unless you’re crossing by boat from Singapore or Malaysia, flying is really the only option for getting to Indonesia. The main hubs are Bali and the capital, Jakarta (on the island of Java). There are a few international flights to Yogyakarta (Java), Lombok and Labuan Bajo (Flores).
Several major airlines serve Indonesia, but a few budget options are available for those travelling from elsewhere in Southeast Asia, such as AirAsia, Scoot, and Jetstar.
Cost of Travelling in Indonesia
In general, Indonesia is one of the cheapest countries to travel in the region. The exception is Bali. While the Island of the Gods is more expensive than the rest of Indonesia, it’s still very affordable for those with Western budgets. It’s hard to generalise about costs in such a huge country, but the costings here are based on prices in the most popular islands (i.e. those featured in this itinerary).
Street food in Indonesia costs around $1.50–3 USD, whereas a meal in a Western restaurant on one of the most popular islands can set you back $5–6 USD. Accommodation prices vary greatly, but as a guide, a bed in a dorm can cost anywhere between $7.50 and $25 USD, whereas a basic budget room can be found for as little as $9 USD. You can find very comfortable lodgings for less than $30 USD per night.
Activities are likely to eat most of your budget in Indonesia. Expect to pay around $170–200 USD for a tour to Mount Bromo and Ijen, $ 200+ USD to hike Mount Rinjani, and around $450 USD for a Komodo sailing trip.
For more of the best tips and tricks for budgeting, check out A guide to budgeting for travelling Bali, Indonesia
How to Get Around in Indonesia
Getting around in Indonesia is straightforward and affordable on the most popular islands (it’s another story on the lesser-visited islands!).
Java is the only island with a decent train network (there are a few routes on Sumatra and Sulawesi), and rail is a great way to get around here. Tiket is a handy website for booking trains on Java. Buses are always the cheapest way to travel, but the services are limited. They are a good option on Java, but on Bali and Lombok they are rarely used by travellers. Check out redbus.id for routes and prices.
In Bali, the most popular way to get around is by scooter. Many people rent their own, but be warned: traffic is a big problem, and the most popular destinations are highly congested. Ride-hailing apps (think Uber) are hugely popular – Grab and Gojek are the biggest ones. They’re a cheap, convenient way to get from A to B.
However, Grab and Gojek are not available on Lombok or the smaller nearby islands (including the Nusas and the Gilis). Here, the best and most convenient option is to hire your own scooter. (On the smallest islands, you can walk or hire a bicycle.) For longer journeys, there are shared minivans you can book in advance.
To get between islands, you can make use of Indonesia’s extensive public ferry network. The booking website is ferizy.com, but it is in Bahasa Indonesia only, so the best option is to buy a ticket directly at the port. In reality, most travellers use tourist boats or fly between islands.
Day 1–2: Yogyakarta, Java
Skip Indo’s crowded capital, Jakarta and head directly for Java’s cultural capital, Yogyakarta (affectionately referred to as Jogja). Direct flights are available from Singapore and Malaysia; otherwise, you can take a train from Jakarta (6–7 hours).
This digital nomad hot spot is known for its rich cultural heritage and serves as the gateway to two of Indonesia’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Borobudur and Prambanan Temples.
Explore the world’s largest Buddhist temple
This huge temple, dating to the 8th century, is one of Indonesia’s most iconic images. The walls are decorated with stories from the life of Buddha, and the temple is topped with 73 bell-shaped stupas. The experience (and view) is like no other temple in Southeast Asia.
Watch a Ramayana Ballet performance at Prambanan Temple
The Ramayana is an ancient Hindu epic. It’s beautifully brought to life as a ballet, which is best viewed against the dramatic backdrop of the Hindu temple complex of Prambanan.
Discover the city’s history
From the royal residences of Kraton Palace and Water Castle to Fort Vredeburg Museum, which outlines the story of Indonesian independence, Jogja has a wealth of historical landmarks.
Soak up the cafe culture
Spend a few hours cafe hopping in a city that’s drawn in countless digital nomads lured by its charm.
Day 3–5: Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen, Java
East Java boasts some of Indonesia’s most spectacular natural scenery. The most popular way to explore the key sites is by taking an organised tour, but you can also visit them independently using a mix of trains and shared shuttles.
Witness the impressive Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
‘The Waterfall of a Thousand Waterfalls’ falls a dramatic 200 metres over a cliff face, creating a curtain of water amidst lush tropical jungle.
Watch the sunrise over volcanoes
The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is a stunning volcanic landscape that should be on any itinerary. Watching the sunrise over Mount Bromo before walking around the crater rim as it rumbled was one of the most breathtaking moments of my first visit to Indonesia!
Marvel at the electric blue flames of Kawah Ijen
Mount Ijen, with its turquoise acidic lake, is the best place in the world to witness the blue flame phenomenon.
Day 6–9: Ubud, Bali
A short ferry will take you to Bali, where you can hop on a local bus to Ubud. Bali is the centre of wellness and spirituality; it’s the perfect place to enjoy a couple of restorative days after the excitement of Java.
Indulge in a Balinese massage
As someone who gets massages everywhere I travel, I can confirm that the Balinese certainly know how to deliver a relaxing, indulgent experience.
Try one of the other wellness offerings
Ever fancied a sound bath, laughter therapy or giving ecstatic dance a go? Ubud is the place to channel your inner hippy and dive into some of the weird and wonderful wellness experiences on offer. (I recommend trying a sound bath; it’s incredibly relaxing!)
Take a walk through the rice terraces
Ubud is surrounded by extensive and lush rice fields and terraces. Tegallalang Rice Terraces are the most famous, but for a more tranquil experience, head to Kajen Rice Field, which is walkable from the city centre. (While you’re there, try Sweet Orange Warung for tasty food with gorgeous views.)
Chase a few waterfalls
The countryside around Ubud is scattered with pretty waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing swim. A few of my favourites are Goa Rang Reng, Tibumana and Taman Sari.
Check out some of our Ubud guides that will give you all of the hidden gems, whether you are a foodie or want a spiritial/zen experince to chill in Bali:
Day 10–12: Canggu and Pererenan, Bali
After a few days of zen, take an hour’s ride south to the bustling southwest coast. (The easiest way is to take a Grab taxi.) Canggu is the epicentre of digital nomad culture in Bali, which means ample amazing cafes and epic gyms. You’ll also find pumping beach clubs and pumping surf. If you fancy a slightly quieter experience, stay in the next neighbourhood, Pererenan, which is close enough to enjoy all the chaos of Canggu while being able to escape to a calmer place when needed.
Check out the beach clubs
Beach clubs are an iconic Bali experience. Some of the best in Canggu are FINNS, The Lawn and La Brisa. Spend the day relaxing by the pool or the evening partying next to the beach (or both!). Even if beach clubs aren’t your vibe (I feel you!), The Lawn is a lovely spot for a daytime drink where you can enjoy a taster of the full-on experience.
Take a surf lesson
Surfing is synonymous with Bali, and Canggu offers waves for all levels. You’ll find surf schools and guides for hire dotted along the beach, so grab a board and catch some waves.
Soak in the sunset
There’s nothing quite like watching the sun sink into the ocean, cold beverage in hand. Bali’s west coast delivers dazzling sunsets, and gathering on the beach to enjoy them is a daily ritual here.
Gorge on world-class food
Pererenan has made a name for itself as a foodie hotspot. Here, you can tuck into delicious global cuisines at very affordable prices.
To see some of the best brunch and coffee spots in Canggu, Bali or if you are after A Complete Guide To Canggu, Bali to help you explore Canggu in more detail.
Day 13–14: Uluwatu, Bali
The Bukit Peninsula on the southern tip of the island is where you’ll find some of Bali’s best beaches, as well as the most epic surf. Here are some of my top recommendations for the best things to do in Uluwatu:
Hit the waves
The best surf spots are clustered around the Bukit Peninsula, and advanced surfers can enjoy rides at spots like Impossibles, Dreamland and Padang Padang. If you’re still learning, there are places for you too! Check out Baby Padang.
Enjoy the beaches
If you prefer the sand to the water, there are plenty of beautiful places to simply relax, such as Dreamland and Padang Padang (made famous in Eat, Pray, Love). Do note that the strong surf in the region means that the beaches are often not suitable for swimming – make sure to follow local advice.
Have a drink at Single Finn
One of Uluwatu’s best-loved drinking holes, Single Finn is the best location to watch the sunset and the pro surfers riding one of Bali’s best waves. If you’re after some of the best places for brunch and coffee in Uluwatu, Bali, check out this guide.
Visit Uluwatu Temple
Its location on the cliff’s edge offers dramatic views, while the nightly Kecak Fire Dance show is a great cultural experience. If you are after a deeper dive into more activities you can do in Uluwatu, here is our Complete Uluwatu Travel Guide.
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Bali, check out our guide below for accommodation options across Bali. Where to stay in Bali – see Bali on a map.
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. Simply open the Google Map on your device and all my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
Day 15–17: Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan
Accessible by boat, three islands sit off the southeast coast of Bali: Nusa Penida, little Nusa Lembongan and tiny Nusa Cenigan. Nusa Penida is a popular day-trip destination, but staying a night or two lets you discover its beauty during quieter hours. Nusa Lembongan is a laid-back island with a smattering of surf spots and beach clubs. Here are a few of my favourite things to do on these 3 islands; check out our A guide to Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia if you want to plan a whole trip there.
Enjoy the beaches
Both Penida and Lembongan have beautiful beaches. Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Beach is Instagram-famous for its view of a T. rex-shaped headland. On Lembongan, Jungutbatu Beach is a sweep of white-sand paradise, and Dream Beach is a hidden little bay that’s well worth seeking out.
Snorkel or dive
Whichever island you base yourself on, you can enjoy great snorkelling or scuba diving. You might even be lucky enough to spot manta rays!
Take to the waves or hiking trails
If you’re a surfer, Lembongan will likely appeal to you with its breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers despite their ominous names: Lacerations, Shipwrecks and Razors! For land-lovers, Penida offers plenty of hiking opportunities to explore the island on foot.
Day 18–20: Gili T or Gili Air
The three Gili Islands lie off Lombok’s north coast. Accessible by boat from Bali or Nusa Penida, each has its own distinct atmosphere. Gili Trawangan (known as Gili T) is the party island; Gili Air is the chilled, laid-back one; and Gili Meno is the quietest of all. (Gili Meno is only really worth visiting if you’re looking for a quiet, romantic getaway, as there is nothing to do there.)
Live the island life
Spend days lazing in a hammock and evenings partying or stargazing on the beach, depending on your travel style.
Swim with turtles
The Gili Islands are well-known for snorkelling and diving and are a prime location to spot sea turtles.
Circumnavigate the island by foot or bike
Gili Air is small enough to walk around, while Gili T is ripe for exploration on two wheels. Go on an adventure and discover all sides of the islands.
If this excites you and you want to start planning your ultimate trip to Gili T and Gili Air, then best to check out the following two guides:
Day 21–23: Tetebatu, Lombok
A short boat ride from the Gilis will take you to Lombok, Bali’s sister island. Nestled in the heart of Lombok, in the foothills of Mount Rinjani and among rice fields, the small village of Tetebatu offers a glimpse into traditional life.
Wander around the village
Walking through the quiet streets of Tetebatu is a great way to get a feel for a quieter way of life, greet some of the local community and enjoy views over the rice fields and surrounding jungle.
Discover traditional crafts
Craftsmanship is part of daily life in Tetebatu. You can watch artisans work with local materials like bamboo to make everyday objects such as mats, baskets, and furniture. Weaving is also very much alive, and you can witness women weaving scarves, sarongs, and other textiles.
Visit some waterfalls
There are several waterfalls dotted around Tetebatu, many within walking distance. Air Terjun Sarang Walet is one of the most impressive.
Explore the Monkey Forest
Grey macaques and black langur monkeys call this area home. This is a great place to see them if you prefer a more natural wildlife experience. Unlike the inhabitants of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali, the animals here aren’t used to humans and are much more likely to keep their distance from visitors.
Side Quest: Mount Rinjani
If you have the time and inclination, trekking up Mount Rinjani is a great experience for hiking lovers. This challenging but rewarding three- or four-day adventure takes hikers to the crater rim of an active volcano to enjoy sunrise views from Lombok’s highest point. The volcano stands at an impressive 3,726 meters above sea level.
Day 24–26: Kuta, Lombok
Kuta, on the south coast of Lombok (not to be confused with Kuta, Bali), is the beating heart of the island. Perfectly situated to access all of the island’s best surfing spots, this former fishing village has transformed into a thriving traveller hub.
Surf
Lombok has waves for surfers of all levels (including a beautiful longboarding break at Tanjung Aan). Surfers have been drawn here by the glassy reef breaks and line-ups that are less crowded than Bali, although this is rapidly changing as Lombok’s popularity continues to explode. If you’re considering joining a surf camp, this is the place to do it.
Take a ride to the best beaches
Some of Lombok’s prettiest beaches are a scooter ride west of Kuta. The journey itself is a picturesque drive. Check out Mawi, Mawun and Selong Belanak.
Visit the Secret Gilis
Another group of Gili islands is in Lombok. Much less visited than the trio in the north, the Secret Gilis are a great place to go diving or snorkelling if you prefer a quieter experience.
If you like the sound of everything about Kuta, these guides will help you with a more detailed idea of the Best things to do in Kuta Lombok and A Complete Lombok Travel Guide for all of your Lombok travels.
Day 27–30: Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park, Flores
The Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s most spectacular destinations and home to the world-famous Komodo dragon. The small coastal town of Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores is the gateway to the national park, which is accessible by a short flight from Bali. From Labuan Bajo, you can either take a multi-day cruise (usually around three days) around Komodo National Park or you can hit all the highlights in one day on a speedboat tour. If you take the one-day option, there is plenty to do on the mainland to keep you busy for the remaining days.
Walk alongside giant lizards
Komodo dragons, which can grow up to three metres long, are the world’s largest lizard. They are endemic to this region of Indonesia, and hiking on Komodo Island or Rinca Island is the best way to spot them.
Hike up to Padar Island Viewpoint
The short hike up to the top of Padar Island offers fantastic views over the island and is well worth the effort!
Relax on pink sand
Pink Beach in Komodo National Park is a dazzling mix of powdery pink sand and sparkling blue water.
Explore traditional cultures
Take a day trip from Labuan Bajo to Melo Village to experience Manggaraian culture and watch a Caci, a traditional fighting dance.
Get high at sunrise or sunset
There are multiple viewpoints surrounding Labuan Bajo, which provide fantastic views over Flores Island and the Flores Sea. Enjoy one of the mesmerising sunsets up high for a truly memorable moment.
With so much to see and do, a month in Indonesia gives you the perfect amount of time to experience a little bit of everything, from Java’s temples and volcanoes to Bali’s beaches and wellness scene, and the islands of Lombok and Flores. This One-Month Indonesia Itinerary has you covered for all things, including planning your route, but there’s plenty of room to mix and match depending on your travel style.
Have you been to Indonesia?
What are the best things to do in Indonesia? Anything you’d add to this Indonesia bucket list?
Lisa Barham
Lisa is a London-born writer who left her nine-to-five in the arts to pursue a dream of travelling the world. She’s journeyed across four continents and counting and has written extensively about travelling in Southeast Asia and South America. Follow her adventures on Instagram and Substack.
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. Simply open the Google Map on your device and all my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
