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Known as the world’s largest island country, Indonesia is a fantastic travel destination that you shouldn’t miss out on. Home to picturesque landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and a novel cultural richness, consider wandering through Wonderful Indonesia on your next Southeast Asian adventure. There’s no shortage of fun activities to do in Indonesia from hiking Mount Bromo, cycling through idyllic Yogyakarta, snorkeling with the manta rays in Nusa Penida, to relaxing in the famous pristine beaches of Bali. If you need some help planning your Indonesia itinerary, keep on reading to ensure you make the most out of the "Emerald of the Equator".

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How much time should I spend in Indonesia?

Raja Ampat is one of the best dive sites in Indonesia
Raja Ampat in Indonesia is one of the best dive sites in the world

With lots of ground to cover, the ideal trip to Indonesia should be no less than two weeks to truly explore the country’s vast geography. Spend five to seven days on each island before hopping onto the next – splitting your time between the gorgeous islands of Bali, Lombok, and Java.

If the most you can spare is a long weekend, you can plan a quick 3-day trip but keep it to a single destination. However, keep in mind that a 3-day Indonesia itinerary is really more for rest than exploration, and can only cover one to two activities at most. A longer trip is highly recommended and we suggest spending two weeks to maximize your stay, if not longer.

The architecture in Bali takes your breath away.
The architecture in Bali is constructed in a most aesthetic and sensational way
Pintu Kota is a great spot for diving in Indonesia
Pintu Kota means the 'City Gate' and has stone arches over and underwater

You can make a three-day Indonesia itinerary work if you’re truly strapped for time. We recommend either cycling through Bali or Lombok in a guided tour, pedaling through breathtaking sceneries while immersing yourself deep in Balinese culture. Bike through the scenic countryside, visit historic temples, see the local villages, and enjoy delicious cuisines. While these islands are renowned for their stunning beaches, Indonesia offers more than sand and sea with a rich landscape of breathtaking rivers, lakes, volcanoes, and more.

Other three-day itineraries include exploring Indonesian wildlife, either with a scuba diving trip in Gili Islands or a wildlife tour to see the famous Komodo dragons. Nature lovers are in for a treat with these adventures that feature diverse land and marine animals such as lizards, orangutans, birds, dolphins, sharks, and mantas.

For more information read our recommendations on 3 days in Indonesia, or book any of our 3-day Indonesia itineraries.

Diving in Indonesia at Barracuda point
Swirls of barracuda swimming at Barracuda Point
Yellow Wall of Texas a diving spot in Indonesia
Spot bright yellow and orange soft corals at Yellow Wall

A seven-day Indonesia itinerary is still a fairly short stay, but you can make the most of your travel by concentrating on a single island. A week-long trip is ideal for an in-depth exploration of Bali. It should give you plenty of time to hit the usual tourist highlights, with enough breathing space to explore roads less traveled.

Start with a laidback journey through the coastal village of Canggu. Popular for its relaxed beach vibes that reflect the peaceful Balinese lifestyle, the charming Canggu has something for every kind of traveler. Spend a tranquil day at the beach, get your surf on, and take memorable travel snaps at the Tanah Lot Temple and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. From a zen stay in Canggu, travel to Ubud to immerse yourself in the local art, culture, and history. Here you can admire the stunning architecture of the Saraswati Temple and Ubud Palace, and visit the ancient holy sites of Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah. Finally, end your Bali trip with a wildlife escapade in the blissful seaside town of Sanur.

Check out our recommended 7 days in Indonesia article for more ideas. You can also browse through our 7 day Indonesia itineraries to book a hassle-free trip.

A romantic getaway in Bali might be just what you need.
Bali is one the best places for a romantic getaway

Whatever kind of traveler you are, there’s sure to be a 10 day Indonesia itinerary that’s your perfect cup of tea. Whether you’re after thrill and adventure, a romantic getaway with a partner, or a sightseeing excursion centered on art and culture, you can explore the majority of the country’s highlights with 10 days at your disposal.

Begin your trip in Ubud which is an all-around travel destination on its own. Considered the art and cultural heart of Indonesia, this town is home to Bali’s most famous landscapes and cultural landmarks. From Ubud, travel to Sanur to find seaside solace. Spend leisurely afternoons with golden sand under your bare feet or cycle around town and trek through lush rice fields. After a few days of zen in Bali, take a quick flight to Java and traverse the other side of Indonesia. See the magnificent Borobudur temple, go hiking up Mount Bromo, and immerse yourself in fine Javanese arts and culture in Yogyakarta.

Choose among our many 10-day Indonesia tours and itineraries for a memorable stay. You can also browse through our recommendations on 10 days in Indonesia.

This Indonesian temple is an iconic temple of Bali.
Ulun Danu Bratan is a temple iconic to Bali

Two weeks is the perfect length of stay for an Indonesian trip and will allow you a richer and more complete experience of this destination. With a 2-week Indonesia itinerary, you can unlock the best of Bali and Java or chase picture-perfect sunsets at Bali and Lombok.

For the ultimate 14-day adventure, start your journey at stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites. See the iconic Borobudur Temple up close and visit the magnificent spectacle of Prambanan. After temple hopping in Java, explore the island’s rich landscape of caves, mountains, and forests. Trek through the awe-inspiring Jomblang and Grubug caves or hike the blue fire crater of Ijen Volcano. A sunrise tour at Mount Bromo is also one you shouldn’t miss before heading to Bali for the rest of your two-week trip.

Customize your perfect vacation with the help of our guide on 2 weeks in Indonesia, or check out your options for 2-week Indonesia itineraries.

Planning a Trip to Indonesia?

Get in touch with one of our travel experts in Indonesia for a customized trip. If you’d like to book a package trip or join a group, check out our Indonesia tours page.

Published by David Lee, updated on November 18, 2021

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