{"id":303,"date":"2024-11-17T04:19:52","date_gmt":"2024-11-17T03:19:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mybestplacestovisit.com\/?page_id=303"},"modified":"2026-06-17T12:47:24","modified_gmt":"2026-06-17T10:47:24","slug":"indonesia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mybestplacestovisit.com\/fr\/asie\/indonesia","title":{"rendered":"Planning a Trip to Indonesia? Best Islands, Routes & Tips (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Planning a Trip to Indonesia? Best Islands, Routes & Tips (2026)<\/h1><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Indonesia is not a single destination but a vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands \u2014 from Bali\u2019s temples and beaches to Komodo\u2019s dragons, Java\u2019s volcanoes, and the untouched reefs of Raja Ampat. Choosing where to go can be overwhelming, which is why this guide breaks down the country\u2019s best regions, experiences, and travel logistics to help you plan the perfect trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Based in Bali since 2020, I\u2019ve explored much of Indonesia, from its most famous highlights to remote islands rarely visited by mass tourism. This firsthand experience shapes this Indonesia Travel Guide 2026, covering the best places to visit, suggested routes, top diving destinations, cultural landmarks, and practical tips for traveling across one of the most diverse countries on Earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Go in Indonesia \u2014 Best Places to Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bali & Nusa Penida<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bali is Indonesia\u2019s most iconic island and often the first stop for travelers exploring the archipelago. The island combines white-sand beaches, lush rice terraces, and a vibrant Hindu culture with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Volcanic peaks like Mount Batur dominate the interior, creating dramatic scenery and rewarding hiking trails. Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, draws visitors with its temples, traditional markets and terraced paddies. Along the coast, Seminyak and Canggu attract surfers, sunset lovers and food enthusiasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just offshore, Nusa Penida<\/strong> offers a wilder and more rugged landscape. Towering limestone cliffs, iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and rich marine life make it one of Indonesia\u2019s most spectacular island escapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udc49 Explore our complete Bali travel guide<\/a><\/strong>
\ud83d\udc49 Discover the full Nusa Penida travel guide<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kelingking
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Lombok & Gili islands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located just east of Bali, Lombok<\/a><\/strong> offers a quieter, less developed alternative with pristine beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Areas like Kuta Lombok and Senggigi are ideal for surfing and laid-back stays, while the nearby Gili Islands<\/a><\/strong> are known for white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and excellent snorkeling and diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dominating the island, Mount Rinjani is Indonesia\u2019s second-highest volcano and a highlight for trekking, offering spectacular views. For a softer adventure, waterfalls like Tiu Kelep Waterfall and the surrounding hills provide easy escapes into nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lombok also retains strong cultural traditions. The Sasak people preserve local crafts and village life, particularly in places like Sasak Ende Village, where visitors can experience authentic island culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Lombok
Tiu Kelep waterfall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Sumbawa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located between Lombok and Flores, Sumbawa<\/a><\/strong> remains one of Indonesia\u2019s most authentic and least-developed islands. Wide open landscapes, quiet beaches and traditional villages give Sumbawa a raw and adventurous atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The island is especially famous for world-class surfing spots like Lakey Peak, attracting experienced surfers from around the globe. But Sumbawa is also gaining attention for extraordinary marine encounters, including seasonal whale shark sightings in Saleh Bay. For divers and ocean lovers, Sumbawa is one of Indonesia\u2019s most exciting emerging destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Far from mass tourism, Sumbawa is perfect for travelers seeking space, authenticity and a deeper connection with nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Whale
Whale shark in Sumbawa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Sumba<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Further south, Sumba<\/a><\/strong> feels almost untouched by time. Known for its rolling savannah landscapes, dramatic cliffs and turquoise lagoons, Sumba offers some of the most photogenic scenery in Indonesia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The island stands out for its strong Marapu spiritual traditions, visible in megalithic tombs and preserved hilltop villages. At the same time, Sumba has attracted a new generation of high-end eco-resorts that blend luxury with sustainability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wild, cultural and visually spectacular, Sumba appeals to travelers looking for something truly different from Bali\u2019s more developed tourism scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"East
Sumba<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tana Toraja (Sulawesi)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Tana Toraja, located in the central highlands of Sulawesi<\/a>, Indonesia, is a region rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. The area is famous for its traditional architecture, elaborate funeral rituals, and stunning landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in the highlands of Sulawesi, Tana Toraja is one of Indonesia\u2019s most fascinating cultural regions, known for its unique traditions, architecture, and landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The area is famous for its iconic Tongkonan houses with curved roofs, as well as Lumbung rice barns, both central to Torajan identity. Even more striking are the elaborate funeral ceremonies, which can last several days and include rituals, feasts, and buffalo sacrifices\u2014an essential part of local culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond its traditions, Tana Toraja offers beautiful scenery with rice fields, hills, and forests. Highlights include cave burial sites like Londa Cave and traditional villages such as Kete Kesu, where you can see cliff-side graves and preserved ancestral homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udc49 Read the full guides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n