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Indonesia in 12 Days: 4 Recommended 12-day Itineraries to Indonesia

A young girl on Padar Island In Komodo National Park during her 12 days in Indonesia.
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Indonesia 12-day Itinerary Options

From cultural landmarks to breathtaking vistas, these Indonesia 12-day itinerary ideas below provide a structured yet flexible guide to help you make the most of your trip to Indonesia.

Itinerary #1: Cultural and Scenic Journey Across Java

Aerial view of Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park on a summer morning.
Hike in the breathtaking Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, where otherworldly landscapes, towering volcanoes, and epic sunrise views await.
Padang Padang is one of the best beaches in Bali
Enjoy the stunning beaches of Bali, where golden sands, turquoise waters, and epic sunsets create the perfect tropical escape. 
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start your trip in Jakarta and enjoy a city sightseeing tour Arrival and city sightseeing Jakarta
Day 2 A trip to Yogyakarta; explore Borobudur and Prambanan temples Temple visits Yogyakarta
Day 3 Delve into the vibrant culture of Yogyakarta's streets and markets Cultural exploration Yogyakarta
Day 4 Visit the Dieng Plateau and savor its panoramic views Exploration Wonosobo
Day 5 Hike in the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park's stunning vistas Volcano hiking Probolinggo
Day 6 Experience Surabaya, focusing on its colonial architecture and port Historical exploration Surabaya
Day 7 Visit Madura Island; enjoy the local Karapan Sapi (bull races) Cultural exploration Madura Island
Day 8 Travel to Banyuwangi and relax by the beach Beach relaxation Banyuwangi
Day 9 Early morning hike to see the blue flames of Ijen Crater Hiking Banyuwangi
Day 10 A trip to Bali; explore southern Bali's beaches and nightlife Beach and nightlife Kuta
Day 11 Visit Tanah Lot and Ubud’s rice terraces Sightseeing and relaxation Ubud
Day 12 Return to Jakarta for departure Departure  

This 12 days in Indonesia itinerary combines culture and natural landscapes. Start from the vibrant capital, Jakarta, navigating the bustling streets filled with a striking mix of tradition and modernity, and make your way through Yogyakarta, where ancient temples stand as a testament to a storied past. Discover the serene heights of the Dieng Plateau and the dramatic beauty of Bromo-Tengger-Semeru, inviting you for rewarding hikes and breathtaking views. As the itinerary takes you through the colonial streets of Surabaya and the vibrant cultural life of Madura Island, you will find yourself embracing the richness of Java's culture and history. Transition to Bali for a final touch of relaxation and exploration among idyllic beaches and verdant landscapes. Your adventure unfolds a captivating chapter of discovery, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Itinerary #2: Island Hopping and Wildlife Adventure

Enjoy a fun thing to do in Ubud by visiting the royal palace.
Step into the rich history of Bali at the Royal Palace in Ubud, where stunning Balinese architecture and cultural performances bring the island’s heritage to life.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start your trip in Bali; relax on its pristine beaches Arrival and beach relaxation Kuta
Day 2 Explore the cultural charms of Ubud Cultural exploration Ubud
Day 3 Engage in a Balinese cooking class and visit local temples Cooking class and temple visit Ubud
Day 4 Travel to Lombok; hike up Mt. Rinjani for stunning views Mountain hiking Sembalun
Day 5 Explore the secluded beaches around Lombok Beach exploration Lombok
Day 6 Take a boat trip to Gili Islands for snorkeling and relaxation Beach activites Gili Trawangan
Day 7 Set sail to Flores Island, exploring Labuan Bajo Island exploration Labuan Bajo
Day 8 Visit Komodo Island to see the majestic Komodo dragons Wildlife exploration Komodo Island
Day 9 Journey to Sumbawa for cultural and scenic experiences Cultural exploration Sumbawa
Day 10 Take a sightseeing tour of Sumbawa Sightseeing Sumbawa
Day 11 Return to Denpasar and take a leisure day Leisure day Denpasar
Day 12 Departure from Denpasar Departure  

This island-hopping adventure is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adrenaline-packed experiences! Start in Bali, where you’ll unwind on pristine beaches before exploring Ubud’s lush jungles, sacred temples, and vibrant arts scene. Learn the secrets of Balinese cuisine in a hands-on cooking class before heading to Lombok, where a trek up Mt. Rinjani rewards you with breathtaking volcanic views. Discover Lombok’s hidden beaches, then hop over to the Gili Islands for world-class snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Continue to Flores, where Labuan Bajo sets the stage for an unforgettable visit to Komodo Island, home to the legendary Komodo dragons. Immerse yourself in Sumbawa’s untouched beauty and rich traditions before returning to Denpasar for a well-earned day of leisure. From fiery sunsets to ancient wonders, this journey through Indonesia’s most spectacular islands promises adventure at every turn!

Itinerary #3: Sumatra's Wild and Cultural Expedition

Nasi Rames Medan showcased in the table.
Savor the rich flavors of Nasi Rames Medan—a delicious Indonesian feast packed with aromatic rice, savory meats, and vibrant spices
The view of Lake Toba on a summer evening during your 9 days in Indonesia.
Journey to the breathtaking Lake Toba, where crystal-clear waters and lush green hills create a paradise like no other.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Begin your trip in Medan Arrival Medan
Day 2 Travel to Bukit Lawang to witness orangutans in the wild Wildlife exploration Bukit Lawang
Day 3 Spend a day exploring diverse flora and fauna in Gunung Leuser National Park Jungle exploration Bukit Lawang
Day 4 Journey to Berastagi, stopping by the Sipiso-Piso Waterfall Waterfall visits Berastagi
Day 5 Climb Mount Sibayak for a sunrise view over volcanic landscapes Volcano hiking Berastagi
Day 6 Head to Lake Toba; relax by its scenic shores Lake relaxation Parapat
Day 7 Embark on a cultural tour to Samosir Island's Batak villages Cultural exploration Samosir Island
Day 8 Enjoy a boat tour of Lake Toba’s beautiful coves and inlets Boat tour Parapat
Day 9 Return to Medan; visit the historic Maimun Palace and Grand Mosque Historical exploration Medan
Day 10 Take a culinary tour in Medan to taste Sumatara's diverse cuisine Food tour Medan
Day 11 Conclude with a serene day at Tangkahan, enjoying its hot springs Relaxation Medan
Day 12 Departure from Medan Departure  

Experience an authentic wild and cultural expedition with this Indonesia in 12 days itinerary that takes you deep into the heart of Sumatra. Start in Medan, getting to know the city and its rich history before heading to Bukit Lawang, where you'll have the rare opportunity to spot orangutans in their natural habitat. Delve into the jungle’s untamed beauty of Gunung Leuser National Park, then off to Berastagi for the enchanting Sibayak volcano hike. Embrace the serene landscapes of Lake Toba, visiting Samosir Island and experiencing the rich Batak culture. Wrapping up your adventure, return to Medan for historical and culinary exploration before winding down at the rejuvenating hot springs of Tangkahan. Don't miss out on planning a complete trip to Lake Toba as part of your enriching Indonesian experience.

Itinerary #4: Exploring the Spice Islands and Eastern Indonesia

A man snorkeling with fish in Crystal Bay.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Banda Island and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Ambon; explore the city's vibrant markets Arrival and City Exploration Ambon
Day 2 Visit the historic Fort Amsterdam and enjoy Ambon’s beaches Sightseeing and beach relaxation Ambon
Day 3 Transfer to Banda Islands, famous for their spice trade history Island exploration Banda Neira
Day 4 Dive or snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Banda Islands Snorkeling Banda Neira
Day 5 Learn the spice history at local plantations Cultural visits Banda Neira
Day 6 Head to Kei Islands for their pristine beaches and clear waters. Beach exploration Kei Islands
Day 7 A boat trip to explore the smaller, uninhabited islands nearby Island hopping  Kei Islands
Day 8 Immerse in Southeast Maluku's musical and dance performances Cultural events Tual
Day 9 Travel to Ternate; visit the historically significant Fort Tolukko Historical exploration Ternate
Day 10 Hike Mount Gamalama for a breathtaking view Volcanic trek Ternate
Day 11 Take a relaxing day at Jailolo's hot springs Relaxation Jailolo
Day 12 Departure from Ternate Departure  

Navigate the less-traveled but astonishingly beautiful lands of Eastern Indonesia in 12 days. Start in Ambon, where colorful markets and historical sites like Fort Amsterdam offer an appreciation of this diverse region. Continue to the Banda Islands, famously rich in spices, where cultural history and underwater adventures await you. Relax on the idyllic Kei Islands, with time for both beach leisure and fascinating explorations of unspoiled atolls. Dive deeper into Southeast Maluku’s enchanting culture through vibrant music and dance. Your journey forwards to Ternate, where historical forts and the impressive vistas from Mount Gamalama provide unique insights into the region’s rich past and present. End your journey in the tranquil atmosphere of Jailolo’s hot springs, experiencing complete relaxation.

Need help in planning 12-day Itinerary in Indonesia?

Twelve days in Indonesia is just enough to leave you utterly enchanted and craving more. Whether you’ve wandered through ancient temples, trekked up volcanic peaks, or basked on sun-kissed beaches, this diverse archipelago never fails to amaze. From the rich culture of Bali to the untamed beauty of Komodo and the hidden gems of Sumatra, Indonesia offers an adventure like no other.

If you are thinking of going on a trip considering one of the above-mentioned 12 days in Indonesia options then contact our travel experts for a customized trip to Indonesia. For more ideas for planning a trip check out our guide on how many days to spend in Indonesia. For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Indonesia.

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