Why Fly to Indonesia
Indonesia is one of those places that genuinely earns the hype. Spread across more than 17,000 islands, it offers everything from volcanic highlands and ancient Hindu temples to some of the world's best surf breaks and diving spots. Bali gets the most attention — and for good reason — but the country runs far deeper than one island. Yogyakarta has Borobudur and Prambanan on its doorstep. Lombok offers beaches without the crowds. Jakarta is chaotic, loud, and fascinating if urban Asia is your thing. The food alone is worth the flight.
What makes Indonesia work as a destination is its range. Budget backpackers and luxury travelers can both find their groove here, often in the same place. The infrastructure in tourist hotspots like Bali is well developed, while more remote areas like Raja Ampat or the Gili Islands reward the extra effort to get there. If you have two weeks, you'll scratch the surface. If you have a month, you'll barely feel like you've seen it.
Best Time to Visit Indonesia
Indonesia sits close to the equator and has a tropical climate, so timing matters. The dry season runs from May to October and is the best window for most destinations — especially Bali, Java, Lombok, and Komodo. Skies are clearer, roads are easier, and outdoor activities are more reliable. July and August are peak months, which means higher prices and more crowded temples and beaches.
The wet season runs from November to April. Rain typically comes in intense afternoon bursts rather than all-day downpours, so it's not a write-off — but flooding is a real risk in some areas, and sea conditions can make island hopping rough. If you're visiting Sulawesi or Kalimantan, seasonal variations differ slightly, so check conditions for your specific destination. Shoulder months like May and September offer a good balance of dry weather and thinner crowds.
Getting Around Indonesia
The distances here are serious — Indonesia spans roughly the width of the continental United States. Domestic flights are your best friend for covering ground quickly. Airlines like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Batik Air connect major cities and islands at reasonable prices if you book ahead. Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport and Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta are the main international hubs.
On Java, the train network is actually excellent and comfortable — the intercity rail between Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya is worth taking. Ferries connect islands like Bali and Lombok (around 2 hours), and fast boats run between smaller islands. In cities, use Gojek or Grab for motorbike taxis and cars — both apps work well and are significantly cheaper than flagging down a cab. Renting a scooter is common in Bali and Lombok, but be honest with yourself about your riding experience before you commit.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Travelers from the EU, UK, and US can enter Indonesia on a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or apply in advance for an eVOA at evisa.imigrasi.go.id. The visa costs IDR 500,000 (around $35 USD) and is valid for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of onward or return travel, and an accommodation address. Before you fly, fill out the All Indonesia Declaration form at allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id — you can do it up to 72 hours before arrival. Don't leave this for the airport; the WiFi there is unreliable. The eVOA saves time at immigration and is worth doing if you plan ahead. Overstaying costs IDR 1,000,000 per day and can result in deportation and a travel ban.
Money & Budget
Indonesia uses the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The large denominations can feel disorienting at first — a coffee might cost IDR 30,000 and a decent meal IDR 60,000–100,000. Carry small bills for markets, street food, and transport, as change is often scarce. ATMs are everywhere in cities and tourist areas but charge fees of IDR 30,000–50,000 per withdrawal. Exchange cash at banks or authorized money changers — avoid airport exchange desks, which offer poor rates. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but cash is still king in rural areas and smaller warungs.
For daily budgets: budget travelers can get by on $30–50 USD per day covering a hostel dorm, street food, and local transport. A mid-range trip — private room, sit-down meals, occasional tours — runs $70–120 USD per day. Luxury travel in Bali especially can push $200–400+ per day with villa stays and private drivers. Outside Bali and Jakarta, your money goes noticeably further.
Top Cities to Visit in Indonesia
- Bali (Denpasar): The most visited island in Indonesia for good reason — beaches, rice terraces, temples, and a well-worn tourist infrastructure that makes it easy to navigate. Start here if it's your first time.
- Jakarta: Indonesia's sprawling capital isn't a classic tourist city, but its food scene, museums, and neighborhoods like Kota Tua (Old Town) make it worth a day or two, especially as a transit hub.
- Yogyakarta: The cultural heartbeat of Java. Base yourself here to visit Borobudur and Prambanan — two of Southeast Asia's most impressive ancient sites — and explore a strong local arts scene.
- Lombok: Bali's quieter neighbor with excellent beaches, the challenging Rinjani volcano trek, and the laid-back Gili Islands just a short boat ride away.
- Surabaya: Indonesia's second-largest city is a practical hub for East Java, with access to Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater — both worth the early morning effort.
- Labuan Bajo: The gateway to Komodo National Park and the Komodo dragons. A small town that punches well above its weight as a jumping-off point for some of Indonesia's most dramatic scenery.
FAQ — Flights to Indonesia
Which airports in Indonesia accept international flights?
The two main international entry points are Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali and Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. Both issue Visas on Arrival. Other airports like Surabaya's Juanda and Lombok International also handle some international routes, including from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
How long is the flight to Indonesia from Europe or the US?
From the UK or Europe, expect around 14–17 hours of total travel time to Bali or Jakarta, usually with one stop in a hub like Dubai, Doha, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. From the US West Coast, flights to Bali run roughly 18–22 hours with a connection. There are no nonstop flights from the US or Europe to Indonesia at this time.
Is it better to fly into Bali or Jakarta?
It depends on your itinerary. Fly into Bali if you're focused on the islands — it puts you right where most travelers want to be and connects easily to Lombok and Flores. Fly into Jakarta if you're starting in Java or want to explore the capital before heading east. Prices to both are often similar, so check what suits your route rather than chasing one hub over the other.