10 Days Indonesia Itinerary
This 10-day itinerary explores the highlights of Indonesia, including the cultural heart of Bali, the historical richness of Java, and the unique wildlife encounters in Komodo. It balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, all while staying within a moderate budget.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$1000-2000
Best Time
Indonesia generally experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet
Activities
44
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Bali (3d), Yogyakarta (3d), Labuan Bajo (4d)
Pace
Moderate
Indonesia offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant culture and ancient temples to stunning natural landscapes and unique wildlife. With its affordability and friendly locals, it's an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 11 must-have experiences
Ancient Temple Complex
Day 5: Sunrise Tour to Borobudur Temple
Volcanic Sunrise Trek
Day 3: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Remote Island Paradise Escape
Day 8: Komodo Island Trek
Bustling Street Food Market
Day 2: Ubud Traditional Art Market
Traditional Cultural Performance
Day 2: Ubud Traditional Art Market
Scenic Rice Terraces Panorama
Day 2: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
World-Class Diving & Snorkeling
Day 9: Island Hopping and Snorkeling Tour
Majestic Waterfall Hike
e.g., Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (East Java), Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali)
Historic Royal Palace Visit
Day 5: Visit Prambanan Temple
Authentic Indonesian Cooking Class
e.g., Paon Bali Cooking Class (Ubud), Ganesha Bali Cooking Class (Ubud)
Chic Rooftop Bars & Nightlife
e.g., SKYE Bar & Restaurant (Jakarta), Potato Head Beach Club (Seminyak, Bali)
Indonesian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by its diverse geography and cultural heritage. Expect bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy dishes. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, Indonesia offers a culinary adventure for every palate.
Must-Try Dishes
Indonesia's iconic fried rice, often served with egg, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. A simple yet satisfying dish with endless variations.
📍 Warungs (small local restaurants), street vendors, restaurants
A traditional Indonesian salad with boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and a rich peanut sauce. A healthy and flavorful vegetarian option.
📍 Warungs, restaurants, street food stalls
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in a sweet soy sauce and served with peanut sauce. A popular street food snack or meal.
📍 Street vendors, restaurants
A rich and tender beef stew cooked in coconut milk and a blend of spices. Originating from West Sumatra, it's considered one of Indonesia's most delicious dishes.
📍 Padang restaurants, restaurants specializing in Indonesian cuisine
Food Neighborhoods
Upscale dining, international cuisine
Traditional Javanese cuisine, Gudeg (jackfruit stew)
Street food, diverse culinary scene
Authentic Padang cuisine, Rendang
Vegetarian options are available, especially in tourist areas, but it's always best to confirm ingredients. Many dishes contain shrimp paste (terasi), so be sure to ask. Halal food is widely available. For allergies, clearly communicate your needs to the server.
It's common to eat with your right hand. While cutlery is usually provided, using your hands is acceptable. Avoid using your left hand for eating or passing food. It's polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show you are satisfied.
Nyepi
Hari Raya NyepiBalinese Day of Silence - island shuts down completely for self-reflection.
Note: Book in advance if staying through Nyepi
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚗From Denpasar Airport (DPS), take a pre-booked taxi or shuttle to your hotel in Ubud (approx. 1.5-2 hours).$15-25
2:00 PM - Arrival at Denpasar Airport (DPS) & Transfer to Ubud
Take a pre-booked airport transfer or a taxi to Ubud. The journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic. Consider using Grab or Gojek for potentially cheaper rides.
- 🚶Walk from your hotel in Ubud Central to Ubud Monkey Forest (approx. 10-15 minutes).$8
4:30 PM - Ubud Monkey Forest
Explore the sacred Monkey Forest, home to hundreds of playful macaques. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys. Arrive late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
- 🚶Walk from Ubud Monkey Forest to Warung Ibu Oka 3 (approx. 5-10 minutes).$5-10
6:30 PM - Dinner at Warung Ibu Oka 3
Try the famous Babi Guling (suckling pig) at Warung Ibu Oka 3. This is a popular spot, so be prepared for a potential wait.
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Ubud Central
Close to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions like Ubud Palace and Ubud Market.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Indonesia generally experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet. The best time to visit most regions, including popular destinations like Bali and Java, is during the dry season from May to September. This period offers sunny days, lower humidity, and calm seas perfect for island hopping and water activities. The wet season, from October to April, brings higher humidity and frequent rainfall, which can sometimes lead to travel disruptions, though showers are often brief. Avoid major Indonesian holidays like Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, as domestic travel surges during these times.
Indonesia experiences a tropical climate. During the dry season, expect sunny days with high humidity. Temperatures are generally warm and consistent throughout the day.
The dry season (May to September) is the peak tourist season in Indonesia, offering optimal weather conditions for travel and outdoor activities.
Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) and Christmas are major holidays that can affect travel due to increased domestic tourism and higher prices.
Getting Around
Traffic-heavy cities; scooters common in Bali, TransJakarta in Jakarta
Gojek and Grab are essential for getting around. Rent a scooter in Bali (international license needed).
Travel
$200-400 (Inter-island flights, ferries, local transport)Accommodation
$300-500 (Mix of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels)Food
$300-400 (Local warungs and affordable restaurants)Activities
$200-400 (Entrance fees, tours, and activities)Eat at 'warungs' or local eateries for authentic, delicious, and incredibly affordable Indonesian meals. Avoid tourist traps for dining.
Utilize Gojek or Grab for transportation. Opt for motorbike taxis ('ojek') in cities for the cheapest and often fastest way to get around.
Haggle respectfully in local markets for souvenirs, clothing, and other non-fixed price items. Always approach it with a friendly attitude.
Indulge in a luxurious Balinese spa treatment or a traditional Indonesian massage, which often offers incredible value compared to Western prices.
Invest in a private boat tour for island hopping in less accessible areas like Komodo National Park or Nusa Islands for a more personalized experience.
Always carry small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah (IDR 20,000, 50,000, 100,000). Many small vendors may not have change for large bills.
Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases like 'Terima kasih' (thank you), 'Berapa harganya?' (how much is it?), and 'Permisi' (excuse me) – locals appreciate the effort.
- Always dress modestly when visiting temples, mosques, or religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove your shoes before entering homes or temples.
- Bargaining is common and expected in markets and smaller shops. Start at 50% of the asking price and aim for 60-70%, always with a smile and good humor.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water (tap water is not safe to drink). The tropical climate can be intensely hot and humid, leading to quick dehydration.
- Utilize ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab for affordable and reliable transportation (motorbikes and cars) and even food delivery, especially in urban areas.
- Check your country's specific visa requirements well in advance. Many nationalities receive a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or are visa-exempt for short stays, but requirements can change.
- While major hotels and restaurants accept cards, many local warungs, markets, and smaller establishments operate on cash. Always carry small denominations for convenience.
- The equatorial sun is incredibly strong. Wear high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM to prevent sunburn.
- Traffic, especially in major cities like Jakarta and tourist hotspots in Bali, can be notoriously bad. Factor in extra travel time, particularly when heading to airports or scheduled tours.
- 1Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) for the hot and humid climate.
- 2Modest attire (sarong or long scarf) to cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites.
- 3Swimwear for beaches, pools, and water activities.
- 4High SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protected sunglasses.
- 5Insect repellent, especially important for evenings and jungle areas to protect against mosquitoes.
- 6Comfortable walking sandals or shoes suitable for exploring towns, beaches, and light trekking.
- 7A reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated (many hotels offer refill stations).
- 8A light rain jacket or poncho, particularly if traveling during the wet season or for sudden tropical showers.
- 9A basic first-aid kit including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- 10A universal travel adapter for charging electronics (Indonesia typically uses Type C/F sockets).
Passport validity & Visa requirements
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Check specific visa requirements for your nationality (Visa on Arrival, e-VOA, or visa-exempt) 2-3 months before travel.
International Flights
Book international flights 3-6 months in advance, especially if traveling during peak season or major holidays, for better prices and availability.
Accommodation
Secure your accommodation 2-4 months ahead, particularly in popular tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, or major cities during festivals, as good options can sell out.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft as soon as you've made your initial flight or major accommodation bookings.
eSIM / Physical SIM Card
Consider purchasing an eSIM online a week or two before departure for immediate connectivity. Alternatively, plan to buy a physical SIM card upon arrival at the airport.
Domestic Flights/Ferries
If planning to visit multiple islands (e.g., Bali to Lombok, Java to Flores), book domestic flights or popular ferry routes 1-3 months ahead, especially for inter-island travel.
Popular Tours/Activities
Book iconic experiences like Borobudur Temple sunrise tours, Komodo Island boat trips, or popular diving excursions 1-2 months in advance, particularly for peak season.
Airport Transfer
Pre-arrange airport transfers, especially if arriving late at night or with significant luggage, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival. Book 1-2 weeks before arrival.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Telkomsel stores at the airport or in cities, authorized resellers
📍 Airalo app or website (download before arrival)
📍 Online booking with airport pickup/delivery
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Free WiFi in public areas is less common.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for the best connectivity and data rates. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be aware of potential scams when using public WiFi. Consider a VPN for added security.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Schuko)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
5–10% if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 5,000 IDR
10,000–20,000 IDR per bag for porters
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas like Bali.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. Exercise caution when consuming local alcoholic beverages. Monitor local news for potential natural disasters.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
110
118
113
Tourist police available in Bali
Payments
Cash needed for warungs, markets, and rural areas
Accepted at hotels, malls, and mid-range+ restaurants
QRIS QR codes growing rapidly
ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas. Carry small bills for tips and small purchases.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, from May to September. You'll experience sunny days, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for exploring the islands and enjoying outdoor activities. However, expect higher prices and more tourists during this period.
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