Top 11 Activities to Experience in Indonesia

While Bali–Lombok–Gili Islands are a quintessential Indonesian 'tour,' there's an abundance of experiences to explore across Indonesia. With over 13,000 islands, the world's largest island nation presents a vast playground for adventure.

Base your itinerary around these 11 must-do activities.

1. Encounter dragons at Komodo National Park

The UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park is home to living dragons, the top predators of Indonesia. Rinca Island, situated just east of Komodo and known for its dense population of particularly fierce dragons, offers thrilling trekking experiences. You can even combine a tour of dragons and orangutans, exploring some of the most diverse wildlife areas in the world, second only to the Amazon.

2. Hike the volcanoes of Java

Indonesia is home to a third of the world's active volcanoes, and on Java, a volcano is often within view. The iconic Mt. Bromo, standing at 2,329 meters (7,641 feet), is the most popular choice for climbers, especially for a breathtaking sunrise at the summit.

On either end of the island, you can explore the striking Krakatau (reachable by boat from the West Javanese coast) and the 2,799-meter (9,183-foot) Gunung Ijen, known for its eerie blue flames from burning sulfur. For those with limited fitness or mobility, the Tangkuban Perahu volcanic crater at 2,084 meters (6,837 feet) is easily accessible by vehicle from Bandung. It’s advisable to climb these active volcanoes with a knowledgeable guide or through a reputable tour operator.

3. Discover one of the world's last megalithic cultures in Sumba

Despite its size being double that of Bali, the island of Sumba remains largely undiscovered. Its unique culture, rooted in ancestor worship, has given rise to a striking megalithic tradition where massive tombstones—some far larger than those at Stonehenge—are transported over several kilometers by hundreds of workers. Sumba is also known for the Pasola, thrilling and sometimes dangerous horseback battles, making it a burgeoning destination for adventurous travelers in Indonesia.

4. Explore the enchanting Kelimutu Lakes in Flores

Thanks to a peculiar geological phenomenon, the three lakes of Kelimutu on Flores Island can change colors dramatically within just a few days. Locals pay close attention to the shifting hues of Tiwi Ata Mbupu, believed to be the abode of demons and witches' spirits. For the best experience, consider staying overnight in the nearby village of Moni, which offers homestays, hotels, and a delightful hot spring, allowing you to visit the crater lakes at dawn before the mists roll in.

5. Dive into the Coral Triangle

Indonesian waters are home to around 750 species of coral, whereas the entire Caribbean hosts just 70. Given that a significant portion of the Coral Triangle—renowned as the world’s foremost center for marine biodiversity—lies within Indonesia, it’s no wonder this region is at the top of any serious diver's bucket list.

Raja Ampat is celebrated as the premier dive destination in Indonesia, alongside Wakatobi National Park located at the southern tip of Sulawesi, both famous for sightings of whale sharks. Manta rays are another major attraction, with spots like Komodo’s 'Manta Alley' and Nusa Penida’s 'Manta Point' (just east of Bali) offering nearly guaranteed encounters.

Find peace away from the hustle in Bali’s Wild West

For those who believe Bali is overly crowded and overly commercialized, a drive beyond Canggu reveals a different story. Just two hours west, through picturesque fields of rice paddies, you’ll discover Medewi in the heart of West Bali.

This laid-back surf town boasts twenty kilometers of untouched black sand beach, with not a single sun-lounger in sight. At the Perancak river mouth, you’ll encounter the most vibrantly painted traditional fishing fleet. On Sunday mornings, the thrilling (and sometimes gruesome) West Balinese tradition of mekepung buffalo-chariot racing unfolds across the expansive paddies south of Negara.

Explore the extraordinary and otherworldly architecture of Tana Toraja

Nestled in the heart of Sulawesi Island lies one of the world's most captivating cultures. The residents of Tana Toraja craft stunning homes, with roofs that some claim symbolize buffalo horns or ships, while others suggest they resemble spacecraft! With its serene highland climate and breathtaking scenery, Tana Toraja is ideal for hiking. Interestingly, the main attraction here is the extravagant funeral ceremonies, which can exceed US$100,000. The deceased are regarded as merely unwell until the final rites are performed. You may be surprised to meet elderly individuals who have been gone for years yet are still meticulously preserved in their families' homes. Other highlights of the island include diving in Bunaken National Marine Park and exploring the Minahasa region in North Sulawesi.

Explore one of the planet's most magnificent temple ruins

The UNESCO-protected Borobudur temple in Central Java is an archaeological marvel. Thought to be the largest (and undoubtedly the most enigmatic) Buddhist temple ruin, it dates back over 1200 years. It’s best to stay nearby so you can arrive before dawn and ascend directly to the upper terrace known as the Sea of Immortality to witness the stunning sunrise over the Javanese volcanoes. This is one of the most spiritually enriching experiences Asia has to offer. Entry to the temple costs US$25 per person.

Sail alongside the ‘bogeymen’ on a phinisi schooner

The traditional timber sailing schooners crafted in southern Sulawesi have earned their place in Humanity's Intangible Cultural Heritage, symbolizing Indonesia’s rich maritime history. Constructed by the Bugis and Konjo communities, these vessels are known as phinisi (sometimes spelled as pinisi). Historically, the Bugis were notorious pirates who raided much of the archipelago, becoming infamous in Europe as the 'Bogeymen'—the stuff of childhood nightmares. This now-renowned fleet of charter boats frequently navigates the waters around Sumbawa, Komodo, Maluku, and West Papua, often serving as the sole means of reaching some of Indonesia’s most isolated islands.

Observe orangutans and track tigers in Sumatra

Gunung Leuser National Park is the premier location for spotting critically endangered Sumatran orangutans. The village of Bukit Lawang, nestled along the steep Bohorok Valley, serves as the ideal base for guided excursions or tours to observe these wild primates. Take your time here, as this charming community is one of Indonesia’s most delightful (and underrated) backpacker havens. Meanwhile, Kerinci Seblat National Park, which is nearly twice the size of Gunung Leuser, remains largely unexplored but boasts one of the few healthy – and growing – tiger populations in the world.

Explore Danau Toba and the Batak Highlands

Danau Toba holds the title of the world’s largest crater lake. At its center lies Samosir Island, the largest freshwater island, recognized by Guinness World Records as 'the world’s biggest island on an island.' While there are many unique reasons to visit this area, the incredibly hospitable and culturally rich Batak people (historically feared as cannibals) are the main attraction. Take your time at Danau Toba; you can rent charming Batak houses for just a few dollars per night and spend a week exploring the island, including its hot springs and the sacred Gunung Pusuk Buhit – with permission and a Batak guide.