Best things to do in Indonesia

• Capital: Jakarta
• Language(s): Indonesian
• Currency: Rupiah (IDR)
• Dial Code: + 62

Indonesia Travel Guide: Volcanoes, Temples, Dragons and... 13,000 Islands of Adventure

If you’ve ever dreamed of hopping from one paradise island to another, dodging volcanoes, hanging out with dragons (yes, real ones), and exploring ancient temples that look straight out of a movie set, Indonesia might just be your dream come true. Welcome to the world’s biggest island nation, where culture, chaos, beauty, and biodiversity collide in the most entertaining way possible.

With over 13,000 islands, Indonesia isn’t just a country—it’s an entire adventure collection. Stretching between Southeast Asia and Oceania, this archipelago is a melting pot of languages, cultures, cuisines, and religions. It's also home to more than 270 million people, making it the fourth most populous country in the world. The capital? That would be Jakarta—a mega-city that’s buzzing, sprawling, and constantly surprising.

A Brief (and Wild) History for the Curious Traveler

To truly appreciate all the top attractions in Indonesia, you’ve got to know a bit of the backstory. Trust us—it’s a good one.

This place has been a major player in global trade since the 7th century. It was the home turf of ancient empires like Srivijaya and Majapahit, which once ruled the seas and rubbed shoulders with merchants from China and India. Over the centuries, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity have all left their mark, resulting in a cultural blend as rich as its legendary spice trade.

Oh, and speaking of spices—European powers went wild over them. The Dutch stuck around for over 300 years, and after World War II, Indonesia finally said “enough is enough” and gained independence. Today, it's a thriving democracy with a national motto that says it all: "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika", or "Unity in Diversity".

Now let’s dive into the real reason you’re here: epic places to visit in Indonesia, unforgettable things to do, and jaw-dropping sightseeing opportunities.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Indonesia

Bali – More Than Just Beach Bars and Yoga Poses

First up, let’s talk about Bali. Yes, it’s Indonesia’s poster child, and yes, it’s totally worth the hype. Whether you're there for the beaches, the surf, the smoothie bowls, or the temple hopping, Bali delivers. Don’t miss Ubud for lush rice terraces and spiritual vibes, and make time for the Tegallalang Rice Fields and Monkey Forest (pro tip: hold on to your sunglasses).

If you’re after nightlife and beach lounging, Seminyak and Canggu are your go-to spots. And if you want volcano views with your sunrise, hike up Mount Batur—because nothing says “vacation goals” like standing on top of a volcano before breakfast.

Yogyakarta – Where History Comes to Life

Craving temples? Yogyakarta (pronounced Jog-ja-karta) is your historical jackpot. This is the gateway to Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, an ornate Hindu temple complex that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and both will blow your mind.

Yogyakarta itself is a hub of Javanese culture, with street art, puppet shows, batik workshops, and a royal palace still inhabited by an actual sultan. It's history, art, and adventure all rolled into one magical package.

Komodo National Park – Dragons Included

Yes, Komodo dragons are real. Yes, they are giant. And yes, you can visit them.

Head to Komodo National Park, one of the top places to visit in Indonesia, where these prehistoric lizards roam freely. The park includes the islands of Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, and the landscapes are just as epic as the reptiles. Pink beaches? Check. Crystal-clear diving spots? Double check. You’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park—minus the screaming (hopefully).

Raja Ampat – Underwater Wonderland

Divers, listen up: Raja Ampat is one of the best diving destinations on the planet. Located in West Papua, this slice of paradise has some of the most biodiverse marine life in the world. You’ll find coral reefs bursting with color, fish that look like living neon signs, and underwater scenes so surreal you’ll swear they’re CGI.

Even if you’re not into diving, the islands themselves are pure magic. White sand beaches, emerald lagoons, and not a Starbucks in sight.

Borneo – Wild Things and Rainforest Dreams

If your travel dreams include hanging out with orangutans in their natural habitat, Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) should be on your travel guide. The Tanjung Puting National Park offers river safaris where you can spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles—all from the comfort of a traditional klotok boat.

It’s not your typical sightseeing trip, but it might just be the most unforgettable one.

Things to Do in Indonesia: From Volcanoes to Villages

Beyond the famous hotspots, there are so many things to do in Indonesia, your only problem will be fitting it all into one trip (spoiler alert: you won’t—so you’ll just have to come back).

Climb a Volcano (or Several)

Indonesia has more than 130 active volcanoes, and many are climbable. Mount Rinjani in Lombok offers a tough but rewarding trek with panoramic crater lake views. Mount Bromo in Java is more accessible and comes with a side of epic sunrise vibes.

Hiking up a volcano? Peak travel behavior.

Take a Traditional Cooking Class

Sure, you’ve had nasi goreng, but have you made it from scratch with a local chef while chickens cluck in the background and the aroma of lemongrass fills the air? Taking a cooking class is one of the best cultural experiences you can have—and your stomach will thank you.

Explore Traditional Villages

Get off the tourist trail and visit traditional villages like Wae Rebo in Flores or Tana Toraja in Sulawesi. These are places where time slows down, roofs are shaped like buffalo horns, and locals welcome you like long-lost friends. The landscapes are beautiful, the customs are fascinating, and the connection is real.

Final Thoughts: Why Indonesia Should Be Your Next Adventure

Indonesia is more than a destination—it’s a travel experience that checks every box. Culture? Check. Nature? Check. History, food, adventure, beaches, dragons, temples, volcanoes, and Instagram-worthy sunsets? Check, check, check.

Whether you're planning a relaxed escape or an adrenaline-fueled odyssey, this country has endless things to do, places to visit, and top attractions that will keep you coming back for more. So grab your backpack, your swimsuit, and your appetite for adventure—because Indonesia is waiting.

Ready for the trip of a lifetime?