Indonesia Travel Guide

This Indonesia travel guide provides travel tips, things to do, and places to visit in Bali, the Gili Islands, and the Komodo Islands. I had been dreaming about going back to Indonesia since I first traveled there in 2016, and I enjoyed my most recent trip in late 2023!

Table Of Contents

Indonesia Travel Tips
Top Cities to Visit in Indonesia
Top Things to Do in Indonesia

Indonesia Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

Bali has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season (April to October).

The rainy season is from November-March,

Language

Indonesian is the official language of Indonesia. In tourist destinations, English is spoken often.

Currency

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. You’ll likely need cash at some point – make sure to pull cash out at an atm.

Transportation

Arriving in Bali:
Booking an airport transfer ahead of time will make the beginning of your trip less stressful, and it’s affordable. This private transfer I used will meet you in the airport with a name sign and make your arrival in Bali seamless!

Motorbikes are the most commonly used methods of transport, but if you’re like me and uncomfortable riding one (or driving in the busy Bali traffic), private transport is easy and affordable. You can hire a private driver for the day here or here.

Taxis and the Grab app are also available.

Top Cities to Visit in Indonesia

Ubud

Tegallalang

Gili Islands

Canggu

Komodo

Top Things to Do in Indonesia

1. Go Scuba Diving. Komodo is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. The Gili Islands have fun, easy diving (perfect for beginners), Nusa Penida is known for mola mola and manta sightings, and Tulamben has the USS Liberty shipwreck.

2. Visit Hindu Temples in Bali. There are temples in every city, but some of the must-see temples include Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Ulun Danu Beratan, and Besakih (Mother) temple. Be respectful, make sure to cover your elbows and knees!

3. See the Rice Terraces in Bali. Visit Tegalalang Village for iconic views of the rice terraces.

4. Hike Mount Batur in Bali. Mount Batur is a 5,633 foot active volcano. Hire a guide and hike Mount Batur in the early morning for gorgeous views of the sunrise.

5. Attend a Yoga Retreat. Or visit a spa for a relaxing massage.

Last Visited: September 2023