5 of the Best Places to Visit in Indonesia for First-Time Travelers

From the spiritual heart of Bali to the volcanic peaks of Java, Indonesia is a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands. For first-time explorers, the diversity can be overwhelming. To help you plan your itinerary, we’ve narrowed down the top five highlights that capture the essence of this incredible country.

1. Jakarta: The Pulsing Heart of Indonesia

Indonesia is a land of contrasts, and nowhere is this more evident than in the capital, Jakarta. Home to nearly 20 million people, this megalopolis offers a masterclass in urban exploration.

• The Food Scene: There is a saying in Indonesia: “A meal without rice is not a meal at all.” Start your culinary journey with Nasi Goreng (fried rice) from a street vendor, or head to the Oasis Restaurant, located in a stunning colonial mansion, for a high-end rijsttafel experience.
• What to Do: Explore the heritage of the Old Town (Kota Tua) or lose yourself in the luxury of the city’s massive, air-conditioned malls.

2. Bali: Spas, Surf, and Sacred Temples

No trip to Indonesia is complete without visiting Bali. While the island is famous for its Monkey Forest and world-class spas, the real magic lies in its coastal beauty and spirituality.

• The Best Beaches: If you’re looking for dramatic cliffs and turquoise water, head south. Uluwatu is a surfer’s paradise and home to the 7 best beaches in Uluwatu. Don’t miss the iconic Uluwatu Temple, where you can watch a traditional Kecak dance at sunset.
• Island Hopping: Once you’ve explored Bali, many travelers take a short boat ride to the Gili Islands. Be sure to read our Gili Meno Travel Guide to find the best spots for swimming with sea turtles.

3. Komodo Island: Land of Dragons and Pink Sands

If you’ve seen “coffee table” photos of turquoise waters and pink shorelines, they were likely taken in Komodo National Park.

• The Pink Beach: This world-famous beach gets its unique hue from a blend of white sand and crushed red organ pipe coral. It is one of only a handful of pink beaches in the world.
• The Dragons: Komodo is the only place on Earth to see the Komodo Dragon in the wild. These massive lizards can grow up to 10 feet long. While they don’t breathe fire, seeing them in their natural habitat is a true “Jurassic Park” moment.

4. Tanjung Puting: An Orangutan Sanctuary

While Komodo draws reptile lovers, Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan (Borneo) is the place for primate enthusiasts. This park is roughly the size of Bali and serves as a vital sanctuary for the endangered Orangutan.

River Safaris: The best way to explore is by hiring a klotok (traditional boat) and sailing down the Sekonyer River. From the deck, you can spot proboscis monkeys, exotic birds, and orangutans swinging through the canopy.

5. Mount Bromo: A Volcanic Sunrise

For those seeking adventure on Java, Mount Bromo is an essential stop. Located within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, this active volcano sits in a vast “Sea of Sand.”

The Experience: Most travelers wake up at 3:00 AM to trek (or take a Jeep) to the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan. Watching the sun rise over the smoking crater of Bromo, with the towering Mount Semeru in the background, is arguably the most iconic view in all of Indonesia.

Know Before You Go: Indonesia 2026 Requirements

As of January 2026, travel to Indonesia has become even more streamlined for international visitors:

• Visa on Arrival (VoA): Most nationalities can obtain a 30-day VoA at major airports like Jakarta (CGK) and Bali (DPS). You can now apply for an e-VoA online before arrival to skip the queues.
• Bali Tourist Levy: Note that Bali has a specific tourist entry fee (approx. $10 USD) which is used for cultural preservation and infrastructure. It is best to pay this online via the official “Love Bali” portal before you land.
• Travel Insurance: While not always strictly checked, having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended due to the adventurous nature of trekking and diving in Indonesia.

Conclusion

Whether you are here for the shopping and high-end dining of Jakarta or the rugged wilderness of Borneo, Indonesia offers something for every type of traveler. If you are planning a larger trip through the region, don’t forget to check out our 8 reasons to visit Southeast Asia to find your next destination.