One simply does not travel to Indonesia just once. Trust me, I have been to Indonesia five times and still haven't seen it all. Indonesia is incredibly diverse, offering almost everything you could possibly seek on a trip within this single country.
From hiking volcanoes to swimming with manta rays, there is a wide range of activities for everyone. Moreover, traveling in Indonesia is extremely affordable, making it an ideal destination for backpackers and adventurers to spend an entire month exploring.
If you have a one-month holiday and are looking for the best places to visit in Indonesia, you are going to love this one-month backpacking Indonesia itinerary for solo travelers.
Indonesia Itinerary Map
Quick Summary
| ☀️ Day 1: | Jakarta, Java |
|---|---|
| ☀️ Day 2-3: | Yogyakarta, Java |
| ☀️ Day 4: | Surabaya, Java |
| ☀️ Day 5: | Mount Bromo - Cemoro Lawang, Java |
| ☀️ Day 6: | Banyuwangi - Kawah Ijen, Java |
| ☀️ Day 7-9: | Ubud, Bali |
| ☀️ Day 10-11: | Gili Islands |
| ☀️ Day 12-13: | Senggigi, Lombok |
| ☀️ Day 14-16: | Mount Rinjani, Lombok |
| ☀️ Day 17-20: | Komodo Islands Cruise, Lombok to Flores |
| ☀️ Day 21: | Labuan Bajo, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 22-23: | Ruteng, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 24-25: | Bajawa, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 26: | Ende, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 27: | Kelimutu - Moni, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 28-29: | Maumere, Flores |
| ☀️ Day 30: | Denpasar, Bali |
One Month Indonesia Itinerary
Day 1: Jakarta, Java (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Stanley Wahid Hasyim Jakarta
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: 8 Best Things To Do in Jakarta
You will likely begin your journey in Jakarta, which is one giant city that is crowded yet charming. However, since we only have a month, I recommend staying one night to overcome the jet lag and familiarize yourself with the culture before taking an early morning train to Yogyakarta the next day. The train journey should take around 7 hours, so the earlier train you take, the better. For more information on this train, check out the train timetable, price, and route on Seat 61.
If you have more time, you can spend an extra night in the capital city and visit the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, the Kota Tua market in the evening, and the Old Harbour at night.
- Best of Java (9 days)
- Indonesia: Hammocks & Hikes (14 days)
- Jakarta to Ubud (15 days)
Day 2 - 3: Yogyakarta, Java (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: OYO 347 Bayang Brothers Guest House
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
- 📖 Full Guide: 9 Best Things To Do in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is known for its cultural heritage, and I recommend staying here for at least 2 nights to experience the city's vibe. When you arrive, drop your bags at your accommodation and explore Malioboro before heading farther afield the next day. Renting a scooter is still one way to reach sights outside the center, but rates vary by bike and rental company. I paid 50,000 IDR per day when I was here, but expect the price to be higher now.
The next day, head to the Borobudur complex to explore one of Indonesia's most famous landmarks. Access is now ticketed by type: a grounds ticket does not let you climb the monument, while a Temple Structure ticket includes timed access to the upper levels, special Upanat sandals, and a guide. Regular structure visits currently begin at 8:30 AM, so book the correct ticket and time slot in advance rather than simply arriving at sunrise. If you specifically want sunrise access at the monument, there is now a separate limited-capacity Borobudur Sunrise experience, currently priced at 1,000,000 IDR for international visitors.
With a scooter, you can also explore the city and visit places such as Prambanan Temples, the largest Hindu compound in Southeast Asia, the Chicken Church viewpoint, and Parangtritis Beach. Afterwards, return to Malioboro Street and find a good local restaurant to indulge in. Chicken Satay is a must-try dish here.
Day 4: Surabaya, Java (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: Notes on Surabaya (via nomadicnotes.com)
From Yogyakarta, you can catch an early morning train to Surabaya, which should take around 5 hours. Spend a night in Surabaya to organize your transportation to Mount Bromo the next day. You have two options: either organize a taxi through the guesthouses in Surabaya or do it independently.
To do it independently, you need to start early and take a train to Probolinggo, which should take no more than 2 hours. Upon arrival, take an o-jek to the bus station, from where you can continue your journey to Cemoro Lawang, a town on Mount Bromo's caldera. You can choose between taking a bus or riding a motorbike, which takes approximately 1 hour.
Where to Stay in Surabaya?
Day 5: Mount Bromo - Cemoro Lawang, Java (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Cahyo Homestay Bromo
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: Mt. Bromo, Indonesia Sunrise Tour Review (via justgonewandering.com)
From Surabaya, try to reach Cemoro Lawang before dark so you have time to settle in and organize the next morning. Guesthouses can still help arrange a sunrise jeep, but entry to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park itself now requires an online ticket of 255,000 IDR per person, through the park's official booking system. Bromo reopened on August 20, 2026 after a temporary wildfire closure, which is a useful reminder to check the park's latest notices before traveling. The Cemara Indah Hotel area remains a great place to take in the view across the caldera.
The view of Mount Bromo at sunrise is undoubtedly one of the best views one can experience in Java. Despite the crowds during sunrise, I assure you it is truly worth it. If you venture slightly off the trail, you should have no trouble finding a serene spot to witness the breathtaking sunrise behind the crater. It's an experience like no other. If you have arranged for a shared jeep at sunrise, they should pick you up around 3:30 AM and take you to the sunrise spot, down to the crater, and back.
After witnessing the sunrise, the jeep should take you down to the barren land near Mount Batok, where you can explore on foot. It is recommended to spend a few hours here and walk all the way up the crater and around it to truly appreciate the scale of the volcano. If you prefer, you can walk back to Cemoro Lawang instead of taking a jeep.
Where to Stay at Mt Bromo?
Day 6: Banyuwangi - Kawah Ijen, Java (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Hotel Blambangan
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: Hiking Kawah Ijen Crater From Bali in 24 Hours: My Complete Guide to Climbing The Volcano (via thegonegoat.com)
After exploring Mount Bromo, take a bus to Probolinggo. From there, you can catch a minibus to Banyuwangi, which takes approximately 4 hours and costs around 25,000 IDR.
is an excellent base for your upcoming hiking adventure to witness the mesmerizing blue flame of Kawa Ijen. Please note that the last bus from Probolinggo departs at 7 PM, so make sure to descend from Bromo before then to catch your transportation.
Banyuwangi is the usual base for visiting Kawah Ijen, but check the official BBKSDA East Java status before building the climb into your itinerary. At the time of this September 2026, Kawah Ijen remains closed to tourism following a major wildfire, and smoke and fire activity were again reported near the area on September 17. Do not travel to Paltuding expecting to hike until the conservation authority formally announces that tourism has reopened.
When Kawah Ijen is officially open, Banyuwangi guesthouses and local operators can arrange the early-morning transfer to Paltuding and a guided climb. The area's normal published opening time is 2 AM, but closures can happen because of volcanic activity, weather, conservation work, fires, or other safety issues. Confirm access immediately before your visit rather than relying on an old tour schedule or price.
The famous blue fire is caused by burning sulfur gases and is visible only in darkness, which is why visits traditionally start very early. Conditions and access to the crater can change, however, so follow the current route restrictions and instructions from park staff and your guide rather than timing the hike around an assumed 5 AM cut-off.
Day 7 - 9: Ubud, Bali (3 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Paon Desa Ubud
- 🕐 Time: 3 nights
- 📖 Full Guide: 10 BEST Places To Visit In Bali
After you visit Kawah Ijen, if you are on a tour, they should provide transportation back to Banyuwangi town. From there, you can take a ferry to Gilmanuk, which departs every 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Gilmanuk, you can take an executive bus to the Mengwi bus terminal. From the Mengwi bus terminal, you can either call a Grab or get a taxi to take you to your guesthouse in Ubud.
Foreign visitors to Bali also need to account for the Bali tourist levy, currently 150,000 IDR per person. It is paid once per trip to Bali, and the provincial government recommends paying through the official Love Bali system before arrival.
Personally, I think Bali is too crowded, and I believe that the best of Indonesia lies beyond it. Indeed, the stunning beaches of Lombok and Flores offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors. However, one aspect of Bali that stands out is its breathtaking architecture. If architectural beauty is of particular interest to you, then I recommend stopping in Bali to appreciate its unique architectural wonders.
Ubud is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in stunning Balinese architecture. You can explore notable sites such as the Water Palace, Tirta Empul complex (known for its freshwater pools where people cleanse themselves spiritually), and the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), all of which are well worth visiting for their architectural beauty and cultural significance.
Another delightful Ubud experience is leisurely walking through the Tegalalang rice terrace. I recommend arriving at the Tegalalang rice field around 7 AM to avoid the crowds. By doing so, you can enjoy the area's serene beauty and have the whole place to yourself, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience.
Day 10 - 11: Gili Islands (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Belukar
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
After enjoying 2 days in Ubud, you have three options for your next destination: the Gili Islands. Gili Trawangan is the most budget-friendly option if you're on a tight budget. However, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, you can choose between Gili Meno or Gili Air.
Regardless of which island you choose, you must go to Padang Bai Port to catch a ferry. Make sure to ask your guesthouse for the boat schedule, as it can vary depending on the weather forecast.
The Gili Islands, located off the coast of Lombok, offer a perfect escape for relaxation by the beach, snorkeling trips with sea turtles, and leisurely walks around the islands.
This is precisely why I agree with your sentiment. Instead of staying at crowded Bali beaches, you can discover numerous beautiful and serene beaches in other destinations. The Gilis provide a wonderful alternative with their tranquil surroundings and picturesque settings, allowing you to enjoy the beach in a more peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere.
Day 12 - 13: Senggigi, Lombok (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Holiday Resort Lombok
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
- 📖 Full Guide: Ultimate Travel Guide to Lombok, Indonesia (via justynjen.com)
After spending a day on one of the Gili islands, you can take a boat to Senggigi in Lombok. Once there, you can rent a scooter and embark on a scenic drive along the coastal road of Northwest Lombok. This route offers stunning coastline views and allows you to explore the area's natural beauty at your own pace.
Indeed, riding a scooter provides the freedom to stop and capture photos at any moment, and with a picturesque road like this, you'll want to pause and take it all in. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning beaches near Senggigi while riding your scooter. Setangi Beach, Kerandangan Beach, and one of my personal favorites, Pandanan Beach, are all worth exploring. These beaches offer a tranquil and idyllic setting where you can relax, unwind, and appreciate the natural beauty of Lombok's coastline.
I spent almost half a day at Pandanan Beach, simply relaxing in a small shack by the white sandy beach that overlooked the Gili Islands, and I had the beach all to myself.
Day 14 - 16: Mount Rinjani, Lombok (3 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage
- 🕐 Time: 3 nights
- 📖 Full Guide: How to Climb Mount Rinjani
After enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, it's time to venture into the mountains of Lombok, and one of the most prominent peaks on the island is Mount Rinjani. Rising majestically to a height of 3,726 meters above sea level, Mount Rinjani offers a thrilling adventure for hikers.
If you are passionate about hiking, I highly recommend embarking on this journey. The view from the summit is absolutely breathtaking. As a volcano within an island situated within another island, the scenery is nothing short of mind-blowing.
There are several trekking routes and trip lengths on Mount Rinjani, and I personally liked the longer 4-day, 3-night tours because it gives you more time for the summit, crater lake, and ridges. Access is tightly managed by the national park, though, and conditions can change during the year. The park normally closes all trekking routes during the wettest part of the year, and as of September 2026 Rinjani has reopened only on a limited basis because of wildfire risk, with new eRinjani online bookings temporarily suspended. If Rinjani is a key part of your trip, check the national park's current access and booking status before committing to these three days.
If you have limited time, you can also go for a 3-day 2-night trip, but make sure that you have some experience hiking and trekking mountains. I did the 3-day 2-night trip, and it was tough, even for me. If you are fit and only have 3 days to spare, you can reserve the tour in advance here.
It's important to remember that Mount Rinjani is a volcano, which means it presents challenging terrain, including sandy slopes and uneven grounds that can make climbing difficult. Therefore, ensuring you are in good physical condition before attempting the trek is crucial. Being adequately prepared and physically fit will enhance your overall experience and make the ascent more manageable.
Day 17 - 20: Komodo Islands Cruise, Lombok to Flores (4 nights)
- 🕐 Time: 4 nights
- 📖 Full Guide: backpacking guide to the Komodo Islands
After your Mount Rinjani trek, you can request the tour company to drop you off at Senggigi. From there, you can stroll along the tourist street and visit a travel agency to inquire about "Liveaboard" cruises to Labuan Bajo in Flores. They will be able to assist you in finding a suitable cruise that allows you to explore the beautiful region of Labuan Bajo and its surrounding islands.
The cruise will take you through the mesmerizing Komodo National Park, eventually arriving at Labuan Bajo in Flores. This scenic journey typically spans 4 days and 3 nights, allowing you to witness the captivating highlights of the national park.
Komodo National Park now operates with visitor quotas, including limits covering Padar, Rinca, Komodo and dive sites, so availability should not be treated as unlimited. The park introduced its SiOra digital system for reservations and e-ticketing in 2025. Whether you travel on a Lombok liveaboard or depart from Labuan Bajo, confirm that your operator is handling the required park reservations, tickets, guides, and activity fees before departure.
You'll have the opportunity to observe the legendary Komodo dragons on the Komodo and Rinca islands, witness the stunning sunrise at Padar Island, and even swim with majestic manta rays at Manta Point. It's an incredible adventure that combines several remarkable experiences into one unforgettable trip.
If you're not particularly keen on spending four days on a boat, an alternative option is available. You can take a cheap flight from Lombok to Bali in the early morning. From Bali, you can then catch another flight on the same day to Labuan Bajo. This way, you can save time and have a more convenient and efficient journey to reach Labuan Bajo and explore the area's wonders without the extended boat trip.
From Labuan Bajo, you have more options, including a 1-day speedboat trip and a 2-day, 1-night Liveaboard cruise. These options will take you to all the previously mentioned highlights but at a faster pace and a more affordable price.
Day 21: Labuan Bajo, Flores (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Green Hill Boutique Hotel
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: A 10 Days Backpacking Itinerary for Flores
If you take a Liveaboard cruise from Lombok, you can expect to arrive in Labuan Bajo in the evening after a 4-day journey. Therefore, you will need to spend a night in Labuan Bajo. Before you retire for the night, ask your hostel to assist you in booking a Gunung Mas bus for your trip to Ruteng the following morning.
Day 22 - 23: Ruteng, Flores (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Victory Hotel
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
Ruteng is a peaceful small town nestled in the hills of Flores. While there, you can explore several attractions, such as the Spiderweb rice fields and the Hobbit cave, where the remains of the real-life hobbit (Homo Floresiensis) were discovered. To make the most of your visit, renting a scooter for the day is recommended. You can easily rent one at Kopi Mani Inspiration cafe, located at this location.
You will be pleasantly surprised by the warm and friendly nature of the people in Flores compared to Bali and Lombok. This can be attributed to Flores receiving fewer tourists, resulting in a more authentic and immersive experience of Indonesian tourism.
It's a wonderful aspect of visiting Flores, where you can truly connect with the local community and appreciate the people's genuine hospitality.
Where to Stay in Ruteng?
Day 24 - 25: Bajawa, Flores (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Bajawa-Roo Hotel
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
After enjoying your time in Ruteng, you can catch an early morning bus to Bajawa,, another charming town in Flores renowned for its traditional Ngada villages. One of the best-known is Bena, a megalithic village beneath Mount Inerie where you can see traditional houses, ancestral shrines, and stone monuments while learning more about Ngada culture.
To reach Bena, you can rent a scooter or arrange an o-jek through your guesthouse. The village is south of Bajawa, so it is easy to combine with other sights around the Mount Inerie area.
If you have extra time, you can also go hiking up Gunung Inerie, a cone-shaped volcano that reaches a height of 2,245 meters. It stands tall and dominates the entire surrounding area, offering spectacular views to those who embark on the hike.
Where to Stay in Bajawa?
Day 26: Ende, Flores (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: LCR HOTEL
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
From Bajawa, you can take a bus to Ende, which typically takes around 5 hours. You will spend a night in Ende, although there aren't many attractions in the town. However, if you're interested in trying the best Nasi Ayam (chicken rice) of your life, I recommend visiting Sari Rasa restaurant. The restaurant owner is a colorful individual who will gladly explain the menu to you and provide an exceptional dining experience.
Where to Stay in Ende?
Day 27: Kelimutu - Moni, Flores (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: The Geckos Homestay
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: A Guide on How to Get to Kelimutu
Here comes one of the highlights of Flores: Kelimutu and its three crater lakes. The lakes are famous because their colors can change over time as the chemistry and volcanic conditions of the water change, rather than simply cycling through different colors over the course of a single day. Sunrise remains a beautiful time to visit, but stay after sunrise if the summit is cloudy because the view can improve quickly as the morning progresses.
The best time to witness the vibrant colors is after sunrise. So make sure to stay until the sunlight illuminates the lake and marvel at the vividness of the colors.
To reach Kelimutu, you must catch an early morning bus from Ende to Moni. Once in Moni, you can arrange a sunrise trip with your guesthouse the following morning.
There are two options for reaching the mountain: you can either rent your scooter and drive up the mountain at 4 AM or hire an o-jek to transport you up and down the mountain.
Where to Stay in Moni?
Day 28 - 29: Maumere, Flores (2 nights)
- 📍 Stay: Capa Resort Maumere
- 🕐 Time: 2 nights
Last but not least, you can board a bus from Moni to Maumere, a coastal town renowned for its beautiful beaches and excellent scuba diving spots. This destination offers a delightful contrast to the mountainous regions of Ruteng, Bajawa, and Moni, as you'll experience a warm tropical climate in Maumere. It's the perfect place to conclude your remarkable journey.
Take a day to unwind on the sunny beach, and the following day, you can fly back to Bali from Maumere.
Where to Stay in Maumere?
Day 30: Denpasar, Bali (1 night)
- 📍 Stay: Amnaya Resort Kuta
- 🕐 Time: 1 night
- 📖 Full Guide: Bali Bucket List: 10 Places You Shouldn't Miss
Depending on your destination, you may need to spend a night in Bali before your onward flight. In such a case, it would be convenient to stay near the airport. Personally, I recommend considering the Manggar Indonesia Hotel, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the airport.
It offers affordable rates, features a pool, and provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening before you depart from Indonesia. You can find more information and book your stay at the Manggar Indonesia Hotel.
Why Go to Indonesia?
Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in Southeast Asia, with over 17,000 islands, each with its own unique culture, beliefs, and way of life. There are countless reasons to visit Indonesia, as it offers many experiences.
From the Islamic and Hindu architectures of Java and Bali to the stunning beaches of Gili and Flores, and the breathtaking volcanoes scattered throughout the country, Indonesia has something for everyone. Indonesia is an ideal destination if you have a month-long holiday and are seeking a unique adventure that encompasses both beaches and mountains.
Indonesia Travel Video
When to Go to Indonesia?
For this particular Java-Bali-Lombok-Flores route, May to September is generally the easiest window because these islands are usually in their drier season, making volcano hikes, overland travel, beaches, and boat trips more reliable.
Indonesia is enormous, though, and rainfall patterns vary by region, so this should not be treated as a single nationwide dry season. July and August are also busy months in Bali and other major destinations, while shoulder months such as May, June, and September can offer a better balance of weather and crowds.
How to Get to Indonesia?
For this itinerary, flying into Jakarta is recommended as a starting point for traveling by land through Java all the way to Flores. To find the best flight options and the fastest route to Indonesia, I personally recommend using either Skyscanner or Expedia.
Before flying, check the visa rules for your passport. Travelers eligible for Indonesia's Visa on Arrival can currently obtain a 30-day B1 VoA or e-VoA for 500,000 IDR, with one extension allowing a total stay of up to 60 days. Your passport generally needs at least six months' validity, and immigration may require a return or onward ticket. Because this itinerary uses almost the full initial 30-day allowance, leave some buffer for flight disruptions or route changes rather than planning to overstay.
How to Get Around Indonesia?
Traveling within Indonesia, despite consisting of many islands, has become considerably easier due to the influx of tourists in recent years. Various transportation options are available, depending on the distance and location to which you are traveling.
For short distances, ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek are useful in many cities and tourist areas, while o-jeks remain common elsewhere. Renting a scooter can give you much more freedom, especially in Bali, Lombok, and Flores, but only ride if you hold the appropriate motorcycle licence and your travel insurance covers it. Bluebird taxis are another useful option in the places they operate; for other taxis, agree on the fare or make sure the meter is used before setting off.
For long-distance travel, the options vary depending on the region, as follows:
How to Get Around Java
On Java, trains remain one of the best ways to cover the long distances in this itinerary. They work particularly well between Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Probolinggo, and the Banyuwangi area, although Bromo itself still requires a road transfer from the rail network. Book longer-distance trains in advance, especially around weekends and Indonesian holidays. Tickets are available through booking platforms like Tiket.com. For more information on train travel in Indonesia, you can refer to the Seat61 guide.
How to Get Around Bali
Bali still has limited island-wide public transport for visitors, so Grab, Gojek, Bluebird taxis, private drivers, and scooters are the most practical options. App-based pickups can be restricted at some ports, terminals, and local transport zones, so you may need to walk to a designated pickup point or use the official transport counter. For a day of scattered sights, hiring a driver can be more convenient than repeatedly arranging individual rides.
How to Get Around Lombok
Buses are the most affordable option for traveling around Lombok and can be easily flagged down. Renting a scooter is a convenient way to visit attractions in the area. Grab and Blue Bird taxis are also available on the island.
How to Get Around Flores
In Flores, buses are the main mode of transportation for traveling around the island. Gunung Mas is a reliable bus service that can be booked through guesthouses or hotels. Bemos (minibuses) are another option, as are shared taxis where you share a Toyota Kijang with locals and split the cost. For shorter distances, renting a scooter or hiring an o-jek for the day is a convenient alternative.
Daily Budget
This place is quite affordable compared to all the other countries in the world. If you are planning a trip here, you can expect to spend around $25 - $45 USD per day per person, which should include accommodation and three meals.
Please keep in mind that these are suggested daily budgets based on my own style of travel, which leans more towards the budget side of things. If you aim to stick to this budget, anticipate sleeping in dormitories, dining out only occasionally, and being comfortable with the cheapest and most convenient modes of transportation, which often involve a considerable amount of walking.
Which tourist SIM card is best for Indonesia?
The availability of WIFI may vary depending on the region you are traveling in. While traveling in Bali and Lombok, I relied on WIFI without any issues. However, in more remote and mountainous regions like Java and Flores, purchasing a local SIM card for reliable internet access is advisable.
I used Telkomsel on my own trip and found its coverage excellent across almost all of this route except while out at sea. It is still a strong choice for an itinerary that includes rural Java, Lombok, and Flores. Telkomsel's current Tourist Prepaid Card costs 150,000 IDR and includes 25 GB of data plus 25 minutes of local calls; foreign visitors need a passport and IMEI for registration. You can pre-order it and collect it after arrival or buy it at selected Telkomsel outlets.
Alternatively, if your phone supports eSIMs, you can set one up before arriving and have mobile data as soon as you land. You can browse through available eSIMs here.
Tips: To stay connected with people at home, be sure that you have a VPN, such as ProtonVPN, installed before traveling. It's FREE, and you can gain access to services that may be blocked in certain countries.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosure policy.
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20 Comments
We Love your blog! Thanks to this my wife and I have booked Indonesia for our honeymoon this May. We have some questions and hope you can answer them.
How far in advance should we book hotels in this area? When on the mountain trek, do we return to the same place, meaning we can leave our bags safely somewhere? Or do you have to take all your belongings with you?
You mentioned that boat travel was a tad dangerous, are there any boat companies that are known to be safer than others?
Thank you in advance and thank you for your brilliant blog!
Thank you for the kind words Rob! :) Glad you found the post useful! It will surely e an incredible trip for you! Indonesia is such a diverse country with plenty of placess to explore. There are plenty of hotels available in many places I mentioned here so you don't really need to book far in advance. Mt Bromo in Java and maybe Moni in Kelimutu are the only exceptions where I would recommend you to book maybe a week or 2 in advance but all the other places, you should have no problem finding accommodations.
For mountain trekking like Rinjani on Lombok, you can leave your stuff at the hotel if they provide storage. More often than not, if you book a tour to do that, they will provide you with one. Other than that, all the other trails are mostly one-day trips and you can always leave your stuff in your hotel room.
Regarding boats, the most dangerous ones are the one you have to spend overnight like the long trip that goes from Lombok to Flores so It's not really specific to companies as it depends a lot on the weather. I guess, a sign you can look out for is the size of the boat and the capacity. A small boat with lots of people is a no-no. Big ones are ok though.
All the other boats are quite ok and safe. Be sure to look at the forecast on the day of your travel and heed the warning if the government decided to close down the port due to weather. Flying is another option that might be a bit more expensive but much safer and faster. :)
I hope these help!
Have a great trip to Indonesia!
Hi, thank you, it is very helpful and handy!
Thank you Heliant! Glad you found it useful! :)
Hi Pete (or anyone who has done something similar). I am going to use this amazing route like a Bible for the month I'm solo travelling Indonesia. (June-july). I am on a very tight budget though so I'm going to do it even cheaper than you. Is there any recommendations you'd like to give in addition to what you've written down? Thank you so much this looks fantastic.
PS am I missing out not doing Sumatra?
Hi Ollie,
Glad you find the guide useful! :) Yes, you can definitely do it cheaper. There is plenty of more budget option in Indonesia so you will be alright even on a tighter budget. I think that's all you need to know about backpacking in Indonesia. Sumatra, I have never done it myself and would love to at some point but as I mentioned earlier, it's really hard to see Indonesia in one go so if you don't have enough time, stick to this itinerary and leave Sumatra for next time. :)
I wish you the best of luck in your Indonesia trip!
Do you remember how much the "liveaboard" trip cost you for the four days? Debating whether to do that or day trips out to the islands.
Hey Keith,
I took the 2 days one from Labuan Bajo and it costs around 900,000 IDR so I'm guessing if you take one from Lombok, it might be around 2 million IDR? I'd recommend flying to Labuan Bajo and do it from there as it is safer and easier.
Hi, this all sounds really good and the pictures and video are absolutely beautiful! I was just wondering whether the travelling time inbetween places is included in this plan? If not, how many days do you think would need to be added on top of the 30 days?
Thank you!
Hi Nora,
The itinerary all include travel days so you should be able to do it in a month if you stick to the schedule. Since we are moving in one direction, most of the connection will take less than a day except from Lombok to Flores where you will have to stay overnight on a boat, which I also included in the itinerary.
I hope this helps!