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Temple and Buddha Indonesia Tour

Best Things to Do in Indonesia

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands and 300 ethnic groups that make up this archipelago, the options for adventure travel in Indonesia are limitless. Each island reveals a vastly different backdrop, from smoldering volcanoes to hidden jungles overgrown with exotic plant and animal species. The cultural diversity is just as breathtaking whether you are touring ancient Buddhist temples in Java or watching, mesmerized, by the carefully quivering fingers and exaggerated gestures of traditional Balinese dances.

Top Indonesia Experiences

Trekking through the jungles of Borneo to watch wild orangutans during a Tanjung Putting National Park river cruise.

Riding a motorbike through the glittering rice fields of Bali’s rural villages.

Rising just before the sun to climb to the top of Borobodur- the largest Buddhist temple in the world- and watch the sunrise over the rice fields and volcanic peaks of Central Java.

Watching traditional Javanese dancers perform the evening Ramayana Ballet against the dramatic backdrop of Prambanan, a 9th century Hindu temple.

Healing your mind, body, and spirit in the holy waters of Tirta Empul Temple.

Snorkeling around the reefs of Menjangan Island, swimming through many different schools of fish.

Listening to the eerie and mesmerizing sounds of the gamelan orchestra echo through the temple as gilded dancers perform.

Touring Yogyakarta in a becak (Indonesian pedicab) to see the lively street action up close and personal.

Bargaining in the markets for the best price on artists’ handmade wood carvings, colorful batiks, and silver jewelry.

Relaxing on one of Bali’s many pristine beaches with a long massage.

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Things to do in Indonesia - Expert’s guide

1. Sacred Monkey Forest 

In the cultural heart of Indonesia, Bali (Ubud) is where you can visit the Hindu temple and see a variety of monkeys. Long-tailed macaques, commonly seen in Southeast Asia, run around the temple. The serene nature, the temple, and the chance to see monkeys make the sacred monkey forest a must visit. 

2. Lake Toba 

Have you ever seen a volcano and a lake combined? Lake Toba offers just this experience! The lake, which sits in the crater, is believed to be the result of an eruption around 70,000 years ago. Explore the area via canoe, water skiing, biking, walking, and/or swimming. 

3. Beaches 

Southeast Asia is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and beaches are often what attracts visitors to Indonesia! If you’re looking for bustling beach towns, Bali offers plenty of beaches, with tons to do, including restaurants and water activities.

Head to some of the other indonesian islands for quieter beaches, with pristine white sands and beautiful blue water. There is no lack of beach access throughout Indonesia, so you’re sure to find whatever sort of beach vacation you’re looking for.

4. Borneo 

If you’re looking for wildlife, Borneo is the place to go. From orangutans, leopards, elephants, lorises, rhinos, and exotic birds, to name a few, there is tons of wildlife to be seen. Trek through Bukit Baka-Bukit Raya National Park for the best opportunity to see wildlife in person. 

5. Mount Bromo and other volcanoes

Indonesia has many volcanoes, and they are known for their beautiful (yet dangerous) eruptions. Mount Bromo offers spectacular views (including the ability to see the white smoke that still comes out of the volcano), and sits near Mount Semeru, the highest peak in the Java area. Both are located in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. 

6. Borobudur

Considered one of the best buddhist sites in the world (it is a UNESCO World Heritage site), there is no shock that Borobudur attracts tons of visitors from around the globe. Visit during sunrise and climb up the temple with a torch-light. The temple basks in the sunlight, offering a peaceful experience.

7. Bunaken

Bunaken is the best place to go if you’re looking for awesome snorkeling. The best time to visit is between April and November. The Bunaken Marine Park offers access to see around 70% of all the fish species found in the Western Pacific Ocean.

8. Tana Toraja

Home of the indigeneous people, also known as the Torajans. This is a unique opportunity to see their complex funeral tradition. Every three years, the dead are dug up, and get groomed as a token of respect.

If this isn’t your cup of tea, consider checking out the Londo, a burial cave. The village of Ke’te Kesu allows visitors to connect with the locals and immerse themselves in Torajan culture, including the Manganda dance. 

9. Komodo National Park 

Dragons really do exist in Indonesia! Komodo dragons are found on the island of Komodo, accessible by boat. Once on the island, besides seeing the dragons, visitors can hike, canoe, and visit the villages around the island. The water is surrounded by rich water, so don’t miss out on some awesome snorkeling while visiting Komodo National Park.

10. Jatiluwih Rice Fields 

Another thing Indonesia is well known for their rice fields. The lush, dramatic landscape spans of 600 hectares and follows the topography of the mountains. The subak system was created to maintain the rice fields, and have done a meticulous job. The scenery is not to be missed!

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Indonesia Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Robin
·
2024-03-17
Written on
Grand Tour of Morocco by Explore!
Grand tour of Morocco
Very hard to pick one highlight as the whole tour was great. However, the camel ride into the desert to our overnight stay at the Nomad Camp was a particular highlight. Also visiting the splendid Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca was a memorable experience..
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Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-01
Written on
Grand Tour of Morocco by Explore!
Grand tour of Morocco
The organization was excellent, starting from the booking process (even last minute) to the daily planning.
Itinery covers a lot of ground and is mostly interesting, after the second night in the camp it slows a bit down as there are long drives and less places to visit but there are always coffee breaks along the way.
It's a nice mix of city/desert/mountain/coastal places to visit and experience.
Hotels were mainly okay, some of them should be changed as they were not clean. Kudos to the desert camps: best comfort, meals and service, especially the first one.
Special mention to our driver Lahsan and tour guide Mohammed for their professionalism and friendliness.
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Lisa
·
2024-02-25
Written on
Grand Tour of Morocco by Explore!
Grand tour of Morocco
Very well planned with diverse range of experiences.
Trusted Customer
·
2024-01-30
Written on
Best of Morocco by Explore!
Best of Morocco
The camel ride - loved it!

The camping in the desert was cool - literally, it was -3°C (the cold deducted from the fun a bit, but still great)

The hike in the atlas mountains was awesome!
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Reshad
·
2024-01-29
Written on
Best of Morocco by Explore!
Best of Morocco
Richard
·
2023-12-12
Written on
Grand Tour of Morocco by Explore!
Grand tour of Morocco
Good itinerary and excellent guide. Some long drives and some hotels not quite up to standard

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