The Top 8 Road Trips in Indonesia

As a vast tropical archipelago located on the ring of fire, Indonesia offers an unforgettable adventure. Driving through the country allows you to experience its charm fully, from enchanting volcanoes and lush rainforests to pristine beaches and hidden traditional villages.

While new highways are emerging in Java and Sumatra, quality roads remain limited across Indonesia's vast expanse. However, this could work in your favor, leading you to countless unexplored gems. Just ensure you have a reliable vehicle and enough fuel for those remote adventures.

Buckle up and prepare yourself for an adventure through the eight best road trips in Indonesia.

1. The Epic Trans-Sumatra Journey

Ideal for Family Adventures Bandar Lampung – Sabang; 1,677 miles (2,700 km); plan for 12 days

Begin your journey in Bandar Lampung, the southernmost city of Sumatra, and visit the nearby Way Kambas National Park to see the endangered Sumatran rhinos and elephants. Drive along the East Shore Trans-Sumatra Highway to reach the vibrant river city of Palembang, then explore the ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples scattered around Muaro Jambi.

Ditch the highway for a leisurely drive west along the picturesque Batanghari River, eventually arriving at Padang on the western coast. This area is famous for its delicious Padang cuisine, so be sure to try the mouthwatering rendang. Continue north through the serene Bukittinggi, following the West Shore Trans-Sumatra Highway to the enchanting blue waters of Lake Toba, where you can unwind on the laid-back Samosir Island.

Head north to the thriving metropolis of Medan, where you can gather supplies and savor the vibrant street food scene. Continue north along the same highway to reach Banda Aceh, where you can explore the intricately designed Baiturrahman Grand Mosque and the poignant Tsunami Museum. From there, take a ferry to Sabang on Weh Island to visit the westernmost point of Indonesia, marked by the Kilometer 0 Monument. With its stunning beaches and over 20 amazing diving spots, Sabang is the ideal spot to wrap up your grand adventure.

2. The Historical Central Java Pilgrimage

Perfect for History Enthusiasts Yogyakarta–Dieng Plateau; 201 miles (324 km); plan for 5 days

As the heart of Javanese civilization, Yogyakarta is the perfect starting point for your pilgrimage. Visit the Royal Palace, the Water Castle, and the ancient Mataram capital in Kota Gede, then head to the impressive 9th-century Prambanan temple just outside the city. Your journey will take you to Solo, another cultural hub of Java. Experience the rich traditional dance performances at the Sriwedari Theatre, visit the site of one of Asia’s oldest human fossils at Sangiran, and don’t miss the unique 15th-century Sukuh temple adorned with sexually themed carvings.

From Solo, take the scenic mountain route westward, nestled between the Merbabu and Merapi volcanoes. If you can spare an extra day for a hike, stop in the village of Selo to summit Merapi, Java's most active volcano, which holds significant cultural importance in traditional Javanese ceremonies.

Continue your journey westward to the breathtaking Buddhist temple of Borobudur. You can easily spend an entire day exploring this area, rich with historical significance, including the stunning temples of Mendut and Pawon. As you head north past Wonosobo, make your way to the enchanting Dieng Plateau, where you'll be transported back in time amidst the numerous Hindu temples, remnants of the grand Javanese empires that once ruled this land over a thousand years ago.

3. The Volcano and Jungle Drive in East Java

Ideal for Adventurers and Nature Enthusiasts Surabaya–Banyuwangi; 341 miles (550 km); plan for 7 days

This adventurous route requires a robust vehicle to navigate through rugged landscapes. Start your journey from the regional capital of Surabaya and head towards the cool, hilly city of Malang, before making your way to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Experience the essence of Indonesia’s ring of fire here, with mountains and smoking cone-shaped volcanoes dotting a vast sea of sand. If you can spare an extra two or three days, consider climbing Mount Semeru, the tallest peak in Java. Be cautious; this trek is challenging and requires adequate preparation. Semeru is an active volcano that may erupt, leading to potential road closures, so always check conditions in advance.

Take the southern route from Semeru and embark on a daring trek to the breathtaking village of Nyuh Kuningumpak Sewu waterfalls. The name translates to “a thousand waterfalls,” perfectly capturing the essence of this stunning site, where countless terraced waterfalls cascade from all directions. Continuing east along the southern coastal route, you’ll discover numerous tranquil beaches along the Indian Ocean. If you must choose just one, make it the enchanting Papuma Beach.

From Jember, head north through Bondowoso and then eastward to explore the remarkable Mount Ijen, known for its boiling turquoise sulfur lake located in its crater. Then, drive south to Banyuwangi, where you can venture into Alas Purwo National Park, situated at the Blambangan Peninsula, the southeasternmost tip of Java. This expansive park is a mythical jungle revered by locals, and it’s also the prime spot for spotting the endangered Javanese banteng bulls roaming the savanna.

4. The Essence of Bali

Ideal for a Relaxing Getaway Kuta–Mt Agung; 155 miles (214km); 3 days

Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of touristy Kuta, head north along the Bypass Road to the serene town of Ubud, the epicenter of Balinese spirituality, culture, and art. Explore the traditional village of Nyuh Kuning to immerse yourself in authentic Balinese life. A short drive further north leads you to Tegallalang, renowned for its stunning rice terraces.

From Ubud, journey east along breathtaking mountain roads to Lake Bedugul, famous for its iconic floating lakeside temple, featured on the 50,000 rupiah banknote. Continue north to the lively city of Singaraja, where local traditions blend with Dutch colonial heritage, along with Chinese and Islamic influences. The ideal base for your stay is Lovina Beach, where you can board a traditional boat to witness dolphins play in the open sea at sunrise.

Travel east and then turn south towards Kintamani, where you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Batur from a high perch. The mountain road narrows and twists, but the vistas are breathtaking as you make your way to Pura Besakih, the holiest Balinese Hindu temple nestled at the base of the sacred Mt. Agung. From here, embark on a 6-hour ascent to catch the sunrise from the mountain's peak at 3031m.

5. The Lombok Loop

Perfect for a Romantic Getaway Mataram–Mataram; 220 miles (350km); 7-10 days

Lombok is filled with enchanting beaches, a legendary volcano, rich history, and a lively culture. Starting from the capital, Mataram, journey along the west coast, discovering countless stunning beaches, including Senggigi, where you can admire the iconic silhouette of Bali’s Mt. Agung. For a detour to the crystal-clear waters of the Gili Islands, make a stop at Pamenang to catch a motorboat across.

As you head to the northern coast, be sure to visit the stunning Tebing Beach, known for its sheer cliffs that highlight the explosive power of Mt. Rinjani. Trek on to the traditional village of Bayan, where an ancient lifestyle has been meticulously preserved over the centuries. Next, continue to Senaru, home to lush coffee plantations and breathtaking waterfalls. If you're up for an adventure, consider climbing the enchanting Mt. Rinjani, allowing an extra three days for a summit trek.

Even if climbing isn't your thing, a road trip through the mountainous area at the base of the volcano is simply spectacular. Ascend to the 2000m high Sembalun Lawang and take in the breathtaking views of the patchwork Lombok rice paddies below. Head south to Pink Beach and feel the soft pink sands beneath your feet. Continue to the southern town of Mandalika, where you'll find more otherworldly beaches like Tanjung Aan and Semeti, known as Kryptonian Beach for its otherworldly landscape. On your return to Mataram, be sure to stop by some traditional Sasak villages.

6. The Enchanting East Flores

Perfect for explorers Labuan Bajo–Maumere; 366 miles (589km); 7 days

At the western edge of Flores lies Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the realm of Komodo dragons within Komodo National Park. Yet, Flores itself is an island begging to be discovered. While the infrastructure might be lacking, the stunning landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure.

From Labuan Bajo, make your way to Ruteng to marvel at the unique cobweb-shaped rice fields. For a taste of history, explore the Liang Bua cave, where the fossilized remains of the ancient hominin known as The Hobbit were found. Spend a few days in the traditional villages surrounding the hilly town of Bajawa. Continue your journey east along picturesque mountain roads to Moni, the gateway to Kelimutu Lake. An early morning hike is essential to witness the enchanting tri-colored lakes within the crater. Conclude your road trip in the beach town of Maumere, where the warm sun greets you after the cool mountain days.

7. The Toraja Highland Adventure

Ideal for mountain off-road enthusiasts Around Toraja; 136 miles (220km); 4 days

Nestled in the uniquely shaped Sulawesi Island, Toraja captivates with its fascinating funeral customs and stunning mountainous landscapes. Use the tranquil town of Rantepao as your base, where you can easily spend one to two days exploring the numerous historical burial sites nearby. For an unforgettable sunrise, navigate the narrow, winding roads to Lolai, known as the 'Country Above the Clouds,' where the entire valley is cloaked in mist, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. From there, head to Bittuang and venture off-road into the expansive and rejuvenating Dutch colonial coffee plantations renowned for their exceptional Toraja coffee.

For a more adventurous drive, journey to the secluded Ollon Valley southwest of Toraja. Navigate the beautifully rugged muddy road along the Sadan River, leading you to the Masuppu River. Only 4x4 vehicles and trail motorbikes can tackle this steep and challenging terrain; expect five hours of driving to cover 40km, particularly tough after rainfall. The reward is spectacular: the uniquely shaped, lush green hills known as the 'Teletubbies Hills.' Set up camp here to soak in the breathtaking star-filled night sky.

8. Exploring the Spice Island

Ideal for a leisurely coastal drive Around Ambon; 142 miles (230km); 2-3 days

Ambon, the capital of the Spice Islands in Maluku, may be small, but it exudes a captivating historical allure and a laid-back atmosphere, celebrated for its delicious spicy seafood cuisine. Recognized by UNESCO as a City of Music, don’t forget your guitar to join locals in song as you journey around the island.

From the main city, take the coastal road to circumnavigate the Leitimur peninsula in the southern region of the island. Countless beaches await, but make sure to stop at the stunning rock formations of Pintu Kota Beach. Returning to the island’s isthmus, continue along the primary provincial road for 25 km east to reach the Tulehu Hotspring. Here, you can embark on an easy hike to the summit of Mt. Salahutu and marvel at the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island from above.

Continue along the northern coast until you arrive at the historic Fort Amsterdam, a blockhouse established by the Dutch East Indies Company in 1637, originally used for storing plundered spices. On your return to Ambon city, be sure to visit the delightful Fort Victoria, the oldest fort in the Spice Islands, constructed by the Portuguese in 1575 before the Dutch took control of the archipelago.