Indonesia is a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands offering incredible diversity.
From the jungles of Sumatra and Kalimantan, to the world-famous beaches of Bali, to the dragons of Komodo, Indonesia has something for every type of traveler.
This 10-day itinerary covers some of the top highlights across multiple islands for an epic Indonesia adventure.
Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta
Kickoff your Indonesia trip by arriving in the sprawling capital city of Jakarta on Java island. Take an evening stroll through Old Town to view Dutch colonial architecture.
Sample some authentic Indonesian cuisine like nasi goreng (fried rice), satay, and gado gado.
Day 2: Fly to Yogyakarta
Catch a morning flight to Yogyakarta on Java. Often called Jogja for short, this cultural hub is known for ancient temples.
Visit the iconic Borobudur Temple, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and stupas. Later, head to Prambanan Temple, a 9th century Hindu temple compound.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Bromo
Rise early and drive east to Mount Bromo within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Hike up to the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan for stunning views of the volcanic landscape at sunrise.
The scenic vista includes Mount Bromo puffing smoke and the Sea of Sand. After, hike across the sea of sand and climb 253 steps to reach Mount Bromo’s crater.
Day 4: Fly to Ubud in Bali
Take a quick flight from Yogyakarta to Denpasar in Bali. Stay in the cultural heart of Ubud, which is surrounded by rice paddies, temples, and craft shops.
Visit monkey-filled Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. See a traditional Balinese dance performance with a legong or barong mask dance.
Day 5: Explore Ubud
Spend a day immersed in the local culture around Ubud. Shop for handicrafts at the Ubud Art Market.
Tour the royal palace and check out the surrounding temples. Opt for an Indonesian cooking class to learn about Balinese spices. Visit Tegallalang to photograph the famed rice terraces.
Day 6: Relax at the Beach in Seminyak
Time to hit the beach! Travel south to Seminyak to relax along the black sand beaches dotted with surfers. Try beachfront seafood like grilled snapper.
Head to La Plancha beach bar with bean bags right on the sand for sunset. Enjoy beachfront massages and beach clubs in this upscale area.
Day 7: Ferry to Lombok Island
Depart Bali from Padangbai port. Take the speedboat ferry crossing to reach Lombok Island in just 90 minutes. Visit Kuta Beach offering excellent surfing conditions.
Hike up the winding path to see sweeping views from Segara Anak crater rim within Mount Rinjani National Park. Catch a traditional performance by the Sasak people, native to Lombok.
Day 8: Gili Islands
Hop on a fast boat to reach the paradise Gili Islands – Trawangan, Meno and Air. No motor vehicles are allowed on these laidback islands rimmed with white sand beaches.
Snorkel with sea turtles. Try diving around coral gardens. Enjoy island-hopping between the three Gilis.
Day 9: Komodo National Park
Venture further east to the remote Komodo National Park, home of the infamous Komodo dragons.
Take an early morning boat trip to Komodo or Rinca Island to spot the giant lizards in their natural habitat.
Return to Labuan Bajo on Flores island in the evening to sample fresh grilled seafood at the harborfront fish markets.
Day 10: Fly Back to Jakarta
After an epic 10-day trip across Indonesia, fly back to Jakarta to catch your departing international flight home.
Soak in a final dose of Indonesian culture in Jakarta by exploring Chinatown, checking out Taman Mini park or hunting for souvenirs at one of the big malls.
Conclusion:
Indonesia deserves a spot at the top of any travel bucket list. The diversity across the 17,000 islands provides an incredible variety of adventures to choose from.
Follow this recommended 10-day itinerary to maximize your time exploring top highlights like ancient temples, volcanoes, beaches, remote islands and dragons. Let the adventure begin!
