Indonesia is one of the most diverse travel destinations in the world. With more than 17,000 islands, hundreds of ethnic groups, active volcanoes, ancient temples, tropical beaches, and dense rainforests, the country offers an incredible range of experiences. If you are searching for the Best Things to Do in Indonesia, you are preparing for a journey that blends adventure, culture, nature, and history in one unforgettable trip.
The beauty of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia lies in its variety. You can wake up before sunrise to hike a volcano, spend the afternoon exploring a thousand-year-old temple, and relax in the evening on a white-sand beach. Each island feels different, yet they are connected by warm hospitality, rich traditions, and incredible food.
This detailed guide covers the 15 Best Things to Do in Indonesia, structured clearly so you can plan a balanced and memorable itinerary.
Cultural and Historical Best Things to Do in Indonesia
Indonesia’s cultural heritage is deeply layered. From Hindu and Buddhist temples to Islamic architecture and indigenous traditions, these cultural highlights form some of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
1. Visit Borobudur
One of the absolute Best Things to Do in Indonesia is visiting Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features detailed stone carvings and symbolic terraces representing Buddhist cosmology.
Sunrise visits are especially popular. Watching the sun rise over misty hills while standing among ancient stupas creates a peaceful and unforgettable moment. Among all cultural landmarks, Borobudur remains one of the most iconic Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
2. Explore Prambanan
Another essential entry in the Best Things to Do in Indonesia is Prambanan, a 9th-century Hindu temple complex. The towering spires are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
The architecture is striking and detailed, with relief panels telling stories from the Ramayana epic. Visiting both Borobudur and Prambanan provides a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s spiritual heritage, strengthening your list of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
3. Discover Ubud
Ubud is considered the cultural heart of Bali. Exploring Ubud is easily one of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia for travellers interested in art, spirituality, and traditional dance.
You can visit local temples, attend cultural performances, explore art galleries, and walk through rice terraces. Ubud offers a slower pace compared to coastal Bali, making it one of the most enriching Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
Nature and Adventure Best Things to Do in Indonesia
Indonesia’s landscapes are bold, raw, and unforgettable. From smoking volcanoes to untouched coral reefs, the country offers some of the most thrilling Best Things to Do in Indonesia for travellers who crave adventure. These experiences are not just scenic. They are immersive, physical, and deeply memorable. If you enjoy dramatic sunrises, jungle treks, and underwater exploration, this section of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia will define your journey.
4. Hike Mount Bromo
Watching the sunrise over Mount Bromo is one of the most photographed and unforgettable Best Things to Do in Indonesia. The adventure begins before dawn. Travellers cross a wide “sea of sand” in jeeps before climbing to a viewpoint overlooking the volcanic landscape.
As the sun rises, mist drifts between craters and soft light touches the surrounding mountains. The smoking volcano below adds to the dramatic atmosphere. After sunrise, visitors can walk across the sand and climb the steps to the crater’s edge for a closer look.
For adventure lovers and photographers, hiking Mount Bromo remains one of the most iconic Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
5. Trek Mount Rinjani
Mount Rinjani is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and offers a serious trekking challenge. Completing this climb is one of the most rewarding Best Things to Do in Indonesia for experienced hikers.
Most treks take two to three days and involve camping along the crater rim. From the top, you can see a turquoise lake resting inside the volcano, with a smaller volcanic cone rising from its centre. The scenery is dramatic and powerful.
The climb requires stamina and preparation, but the sense of achievement makes it one of the most adventurous Best Things to Do in Indonesia for outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Relax and Dive in Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is often described as one of the most beautiful marine regions on Earth. Snorkelling or diving here ranks among the most breathtaking Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
The coral reefs are vibrant and healthy, supporting extraordinary marine biodiversity. Divers frequently encounter manta rays, reef sharks, and colourful schools of fish. Above water, limestone islands rise sharply from clear turquoise seas, creating dramatic scenery.
Whether you are diving or simply relaxing on a boat deck between snorkelling sessions, visiting Raja Ampat stands out as one of the most visually stunning Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
7. Visit Komodo National Park
Seeing Komodo dragons in their natural habitat is one of the most unique Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Komodo National Park protects these powerful reptiles, which are the largest lizards in the world.
Guided tours ensure safe observation while explaining conservation efforts and the ecosystem of the islands. The experience feels wild and authentic, as dragons roam freely across dry savannah landscapes.
Beyond wildlife encounters, the surrounding waters offer excellent snorkelling and diving. Pink-sand beaches and panoramic island viewpoints add to the adventure, making Komodo National Park one of the most complete and unforgettable Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
Beach and Island Best Things to Do in Indonesia
Indonesia is world-famous for its tropical coastline, turquoise waters, and palm-fringed islands. For many travellers, beach hopping is at the heart of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia. With thousands of islands scattered across the archipelago, you can move from lively beach towns to quiet, untouched shores within a short flight or boat ride. These coastal experiences combine relaxation, adventure, and postcard scenery, making them essential parts of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
8. Explore the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands are among the most relaxing Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Located off the coast of Lombok, this trio of islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, is known for white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and a calm atmosphere.
One of the unique aspects of the Gili Islands is the absence of motorised vehicles. There are no cars or motorbikes, only bicycles and traditional horse carts. This creates a peaceful setting that feels removed from busy city life.
Snorkelling is a major highlight and one of the most memorable Best Things to Do in Indonesia in this region. Sea turtles are frequently spotted in shallow waters, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners. Evenings are best spent watching the sunset over Bali’s distant volcanic silhouette.
9. Surf in Uluwatu
Uluwatu represents the adventurous side of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Located on the southern tip of Bali, it is famous for dramatic limestone cliffs and powerful ocean waves.
Surfers from around the world visit Uluwatu for its consistent swells and challenging breaks. Watching experienced surfers ride massive waves below towering cliffs is one of the most scenic Best Things to Do in Indonesia, even if you never step on a board yourself.
Above the waves stands Uluwatu Temple, perched on the cliff edge. Visitors gather here in the evening for sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. The combination of culture, ocean energy, and golden skies makes Uluwatu one of the most iconic coastal Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
10. Visit Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida offers a raw and dramatic island experience, making it one of the most striking Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Just a short boat ride from Bali, the island feels less developed and more rugged.
The most famous viewpoint is Kelingking Beach, where a cliff shaped like a dinosaur overlooks turquoise waters. Standing at this viewpoint is one of the most photographed Best Things to Do in Indonesia. The scenery is dramatic, with steep cliffs dropping into crashing waves below.
Beyond Kelingking, hidden beaches and natural rock formations create a sense of exploration. Roads can be rough, which adds to the adventure. For travellers seeking wild coastal landscapes rather than resort-style relaxation, Nusa Penida stands out among the adventurous Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
Wildlife and Unique Experiences in Indonesia
Indonesia’s biodiversity and living traditions create some of the most unforgettable Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Beyond beaches and temples, the country offers rare wildlife encounters, ancient rituals, and landscapes that feel almost untouched. These experiences connect you not only to nature, but also to communities that have preserved their culture for generations.
11. See Orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park
Spotting wild orangutans in Sumatra is one of the most extraordinary Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the few places on Earth where you can see these endangered primates in their natural habitat.
Guided jungle treks take you deep into tropical rainforest, where experienced local guides help track orangutans swinging between trees. Along the way, you may also encounter hornbills, gibbons, and other wildlife.
Watching an orangutan move freely through the forest canopy is a powerful moment. It reminds travellers of the importance of conservation, making this one of the most meaningful Best Things to Do in Indonesia for nature lovers.
12. Visit Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is widely considered the cultural capital of Java. Exploring this city is one of the most culturally immersive Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
The city is known for traditional batik workshops, classical Javanese dance, shadow puppet performances, and royal heritage linked to the Sultan’s palace. Walking through its markets and cultural centres provides insight into daily life and long-standing traditions.
Yogyakarta also serves as a base for visiting Borobudur and Prambanan, making it strategically important for travellers exploring the historical Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
13. Experience Balinese Temple Ceremonies
Attending a traditional ceremony in Bali is one of the most authentic Best Things to Do in Indonesia. Balinese Hinduism shapes daily life, and temples are active centres of community and spirituality.
During ceremonies, locals dress in traditional attire and carry colourful offerings made from flowers, fruit, and incense. Visitors may witness chanting, gamelan music, and ritual prayers.
Observing respectfully allows you to appreciate how spirituality remains deeply woven into daily routines. These ceremonies highlight Indonesia’s living traditions, making them one of the most culturally rich Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
14. Explore Flores
Flores offers rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and striking natural scenery. Exploring this island is one of the most distinctive Best Things to Do in Indonesia for travellers seeking something less commercial.
The highlight is Kelimutu, home to three crater lakes that change colour due to mineral reactions. Seeing the lakes at sunrise is one of the most unusual natural spectacles among the Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
Beyond Kelimutu, Flores offers cultural encounters in rural villages and quiet beaches far from large tourist crowds.
15. Cruise Through Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo serves as the gateway to Komodo National Park. Taking a boat trip from this coastal town is one of the most scenic Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
Island-hopping tours allow you to snorkel in clear waters, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and relax on pink-sand beaches. Sunsets over calm seas create unforgettable views.
Combining wildlife, marine beauty, and remote island landscapes, cruising from Labuan Bajo is one of the most complete and visually rewarding Best Things to Do in Indonesia.
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Final Thoughts:
The beauty of the Best Things to Do in Indonesia lies in the country’s diversity. Few destinations allow you to experience ancient temples, active volcanoes, dense jungles, tropical islands, and vibrant cultural traditions within one trip.
Whether you are an adventure seeker, cultural explorer, wildlife enthusiast, or beach lover, the Best Things to Do in Indonesia offer something unforgettable. The key is to plan wisely, travel respectfully, and give yourself enough time to truly experience each island’s unique character.
Indonesia is not just a holiday destination. It is a collection of worlds waiting to be explored.
