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Things to do in Indonesia

If you’re looking for our top activities in Indonesia then you’ve certainly come to the right place as from a kayak into the jungle, to a tour of the temples, and a chance to explore the road less travelled as you enter the dragon, this is just the tip of the misty mountain when it comes to finding things to do in Indonesia.

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Things to do in Indonesia

Enter the dragon

The wildlife in Indonesia is as intriguing as the archipelago itself with every region differing in habitat, climate and the weird and wonderful creatures that dwell there.

There an inordinate number of things to do in Indonesia: it’s home to some of the rarest creatures in the world including the miniature deer that stands at just 35cm, fish that climb trees to catch insects (no, really), and crafty spiders that catch and devour small birds in their giant webs. The Tanjung Puting National Park is all about making your way slowly into the jungle along the misty river to spot orangutans, gibbons and long-tailed macaques; Sumatra is where the majestic elephant treads alongside mischievous monkeys; and Tangui, an orangutan release centre in Indonesian Borneo flutters with the colourful wings of its unique birdlife and some beautiful rare butterflies.

Of course, there is only one King in Indonesia and that’s the Komodo dragon – the stuff of legend, it is the world’s biggest lizard and lives among the savannah in eastern Indonesia’s untouched islands, Rinca and Komodo. Known locally as ‘ora’, they hunt alone and satiate their enormous appetites with huge animals like deer and even buffalo.

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Kayak into the jungle

If you crave adventure, want a thought provoking dose of cultural immersion, and love a physical challenge, but relish the idea of moments of absolute relaxation too, there is no better way to journey along Indonesia’s atmospheric waterways than by kayak.

Paddling a sea kayak deep into Indonesia’s jungle, reaching places where two feet just can’t get, drifting between remote beaches, uninhabited islands and visiting local stilted villages along the way in one of the very best things to do in Indonesia. The aim of any kayaking expedition into the jungle is to catch a glimpse of the mighty Komodo dragon, incredible animals that you’ll get to observe from a truly unique standpoint, alongside buffalo, monkey, and wild pigs and you make your way to safety and release some adrenalin with a swim or a snorkel above ethereal coral reefs.

Showcasing the best of Bali’s culture, the Pura Taman Saraswati temple is a striking and intricate carved complex set beyond a garden of pretty lotus blossoms.

Tour the temples

Java’s temples are not just sensational to look at, but they tell a physical tale of Buddhism and Hinduism living peacefully side-by-side as shown by the proximity of Prambanan, the celestial, turreted Hindu temple, to the magnificent Borobudur, the largest Buddhist building in the world and a manmade cluster of arches, stupas and statues.

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Calling us from outside the UK?

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Trek through paddy fields, watch endangered birds flock, or learn a new skill at a local craft workshop – Indonesia’s quieter side packs an almighty punch.

Explore the road less travelled

Off-the-beaten track Indonesia is all about getting under the skin of the country – exploring the central mountain region of laidback Ubud, the summits of dormant volcanoes across the cool northern slopes of Mount Batukaru, or cycling around the enigmatic Ulun Danu Temple on Lake Bratan, which can often be seen so shrouded in mist that it appears to float on the water.

More about Indonesia

Best time to go to Indonesia

Our temperature & rainfall chart covers all bases, especially when added to our month by month guide, supplier advice and cultural picks.

Indonesia travel guide

Our Indonesia travel guide aims to point responsible travellers in the right direction when it comes to what we rate & what we don’t as well as all the information you need on food, shopping & people to assist in your quest to discover Indonesia like a local.

Indonesia map & highlights

Our interactive map of highlights features everywhere from Kalimantan and Sulawesi to Java, Komodo and Lombok.

Things to see & do in Bali

Despite its enduring popularity, it’s still possible to find a quiet slice of life in Bali away from the hectic beach resorts.

Komodo dragon tours in Indonesia

If you’re getting into Game of Thrones or can’t forget Smaug from The Hobbit, there’s only one thing to do – set sail on a Komodo dragon tour.

Things to see & do on Lombok

Lombok’s a laid-back place with deserted beaches from where to surf, swim or snorkel over coral, and a majestic mountain at its core to challenge travellers in search of hardy hikes.

Sea kayaking the Komodo Islands

Sea kayaking in the Komodo Islands is a chance to be immersed in nature, paddling your way to remote corners of this beautiful national park.

Things to see & do in Sulawesi

Sulawesi is a legendary destination for diving and snorkelling, especially off its volcanic northern peninsula, but just as rewarding for visitors are its thick tracts of jungle, rugged mountains and proud traditional cultures.

Things to see & do in Sumatra

Sumatra delivers big when it comes to both natural beauty and cultural wonders, from otherworldly volcanoes to ancient sites to the tropical jungle that orangutans call home.

Things to see & do in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, on the island of Java, is a city of two parts, with a modern, busy side but with age-old customs and traditional arts living on in the ancient old walled town known as the kraton.