4-week travel itinerary Indonesia

Indonesia is a country of unparalleled diversity and beauty. It consists of more than 17,000 islands and offers a blend of rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The country has a rich history and culture, with influences from various countries such as India, China, and the Netherlands. The population is highly diverse and speaks over 700 languages and dialects. With a tropical climate, Indonesia is an ideal destination for sun and beach lovers.

Bali and Java are two of the most popular islands in Indonesia and both offer a unique travel experience. Both islands are rich in cultural heritage and traditional crafts. Bali is known for its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming population, while Java is renowned for its epic volcanoes, historical temples, and stunning waterfalls.

In this travel blog, you will find inspiration for a 4-week journey in Java & Bali, Indonesia. From tips on the best places to visit, the most delicious Indonesian dishes to taste, to the most enjoyable activities to do.

Preparation

You can obtain a visa to enter Indonesia upon arrival at the airport. However, prior to that, you will be asked (via email by the airline) to fill out a declaration form indicating whether you have any goods to declare in your luggage. Take a screenshot of the QR code so that you can show it at the airport. If you haven't done this beforehand, you can still do it at the airport.

The visa costs around 510,000 Rupiah (€33.00). Upon arrival at the airport, you will go through immigration and need to present your passport, which should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. You will receive a stamp indicating the date of your departure.

Vaccinations Indonesia

I'm not a healthcare expert, so I consulted the GGD (Public Health Service) for this information. The GGD recommends getting vaccinations for DTP and hepatitis A. For travel advice regarding COVID-19, please consult Nederlandwereldwijd.nl (the official government website, also available in English).

Best time to visit Indonesia

In general, there are two main seasons in Indonesia: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season typically runs from May to October and is considered the best time to visit Indonesia. Due to less rainfall, you may experience slightly less greenery, and for example, the famous T-Rex on Nusa Penida may appear somewhat yellowish/brown.

The rainy season generally occurs from November to April. During the rainy season, some parts of Bali may experience heavy rainfall and higher humidity. Although the rainy season is considered low season, it can still be a great time to travel as there are fewer tourists and nature is in full bloom. It doesn't get any greener! However, you may encounter brown water at the waterfalls.

These are often tropical showers that can pass after an hour. The most rainfall on average occurs in the months of January/February. Personally, I visited Bali and Java from late February to early March and experienced very little rain. There were only a few mornings and one evening with rain. For the most part, the rain mainly fell at night.

During rainy season, the famous T-Rex will have a more vibrant green touch! 

A few practical tips

• Withdraw cash before departure!

Before departure, withdraw cash (ideally in bills of €50 or higher), so that when you arrive in Indonesia you can go to a bureau de change to Indonesian Rupiah. Again, saves you transaction fees and the exchange rate is better. 1 euro equals about 16,000 Indonesian Rupiah (5-2023). Takes some getting used to, all those zeros on the bills. By the way, you won't get bills larger than 100,000.

• Buying a Sim Card

You can buy a SIM card at the airport, but they are more expensive. I went to a Telkomsel store for this. This is about a 20-minute drive from Denpasar in a shopping mall. Here for 150,000 Rupiah you have 25GB of data for a full month. By the way, in Indonesia it is mandatory to register the SIM card by name, so you will have to give the phone store employee your passport for a while.

I think I had timed my visit badly, because there was a 1.5-hour queue. Fortunately, I was able to shop and have a bite to eat downstairs in the mall.

• Offline navigation

Download the map of the region where you will arrive so you can navigate to your ho(s)tel and possibly the Telkomsel store without internet.

What do I bring with me?

Indonesia was part of my backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia. I only needed thermal clothing for climbing Mount Batur and Mount Bromo, while rain gear came in handy during tropical downpours on a few occasions.

You can find my complete packing list for my backpacking adventure in this blog!

Another man tried to appeal to my emotions by expressing his disappointment in my lack of trust in them. Nice try, sir, but you're lying to me (by saying that the place I want to go can only be reached by taxi, which isn't even true). I'd rather walk away from you just as easily. After hearing "stop here" ten times, I already knew that the scooter guy wasn't from ASA Tours & Motorbike Rental. He finally stopped when I only had to walk 100 meters. Persistence pays off!

Should you take a taxi to your accommodation or the shopping center for a SIM card? Often, it's worth walking a few hundred meters and then taking a taxi from there.

Culture & Customs

As a traveler to Indonesia, it's important to respect the local culture and customs. The local population will appreciate you even more as a tourist if you do so. Here are some cultural customs in Java & Bali to keep in mind:

1. Cultures: Indonesia is a country with many cultures and beliefs that peacefully coexist. This requires tolerance and respect, which means refraining from making negative remarks about culture and religion, even if the recipient takes it with a grain of salt.
2. Religions:
   1. Most Balinese people are devout Hindus and pray three times a day: at 06:00, 12:00, and 18:00. They use a traditional offering tray. If you want to make an offering yourself, you can do so at a temple where you can ask an employee for guidance and make an offering based on a donation.
   2. On Java, the majority of the population is Islamic, and devout Muslims pray five times a day.
3. Appropriate clothing in religious places: When entering religious places such as temples, cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes if indicated as a sign of respect. In Bali, it's mandatory to cover your knees with a sarong at almost every religious place. At mosques, it's important to keep your shoulders and knees covered, either with a long skirt or pants. 
4. Respect for local customs and traditions: Show respect and appreciation for the local culture, traditions, religion, and customs, and adapt to the local ways of doing things, even if they are different from what you're accustomed to.

5. Use of the right hand: In Bali, the right hand is considered clean and polite, so use this hand to accept things, greet people, and eat.

By respecting these cultural customs and practices, you will not only show respect to the local population but also gain a deeper understanding of the unique culture of Java & Bali.

Tipping and Negotiating

You can give a small tip to waiters, baggage handlers, or traffic guides, which they highly appreciate. Guides/drivers also appreciate tips. At restaurants, I usually gave a 10% tip since the food is already quite inexpensive, so 10% on a bill of, for example, €3.00 is still reasonable.

Balinese and Javanese people are generally easygoing and cheerful, so when bargaining, it's important to remain friendly and cheerful. Bargaining is quite common, especially in Bali, due to the high number of tourists visiting the island. On Java, it can be a bit more challenging as there are fewer tourists. In places where many tourists visit, people might be more willing to negotiate, so it's worth saying no and exploring other offers.

Transportation in Indonesia

There are numerous transportation options in Indonesia, and it's good to know a few things in advance!

Java: Traveling by Train

The most efficient way to cover long distances between cities in Java is by train (Kereta API). Train tickets in Java are quite affordable! For the journey from Malang to Yogyakarta, I paid 240,000 IDR (€ 16) for Ekonimi Class, while the journey from Yogyakarta to Malang cost 250,000 IDR. You can easily purchase a ticket on Tiket.com and then exchange your e-ticket for a paper ticket at one of the counters at the station.

Java & Bali: Renting a Scooter

The most cost-effective way to travel from point A to point B is by scooter (except for long distances in Java, for which the train is recommended). You can rent one for around €5.00 - €8.00 per day, and a full tank of Pertalite in Indonesia costs about €3.00. You'll only find Pertamina gas stations as the government is responsible for them. It's perfectly fine to ride with two people on a scooter. For the price of an average taxi ride, you can have a scooter at your disposal for a whole day.

Balinese chaos

In Indonesia, they drive on the left side of the road, which I was fortunately accustomed to after four weeks in Thailand. Traffic in Bali can be quite chaotic and sometimes unpredictable, especially in busy areas such as around the airport, Kuta, Ubud, and the touristy Canggu. The roads are narrower than what you might be used to, and there are many traffic lights.

Busy but Less Chaotic Traffic in Java

Traffic in the major cities of Java (Malang, Yogyakarta, Bandung, Jakarta) is undoubtedly busy. There are many scooters, but also wider roads and numerous traffic lights. Personally, I found the traffic in Bali slightly more chaotic, mainly because some roads were narrower. In most Javanese cities, you'll also encounter many traffic guides who assist with merging onto busy roads. It's customary to give them a small tip.

However, traffic rules are not always strictly followed, and there can be many traffic violations. So, pay extra attention to scooters merging in and out, as well as pedestrians who sometimes cross the road assuming you'll give way/stop.

Officially, an International Driving Permit is required to ride a scooter up to 50cc in Indonesia. The most common scooters have a motor power of 110cc – 125cc. For scooters with a motor power above 50cc, an Indonesian Class A motorbike license is required. In that case, an international driving permit is not sufficient. Therefore, if you choose to take the risk, be extra cautious.

The travel itinerary

Based on my own itinerary, starting in Bali and ending in Java.

Island 1. Bali

Welcome to Indonesia, but especially welcome to Bali! The island is known as the Island of the Gods and is a true Indonesian paradise. Breathtaking beaches, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty. What more could you want? The island offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, with plenty of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, hiking through rice fields, and yoga.

In the next 16 days, you will visit 6 destinations. From the bustling city of Ubud to the breathtaking landscapes of Sidemen and the beautiful beaches of Uluwatu and Nusa Penida. You will stay in a traditional homestay and get to know Balinese cuisine, traditional crafts, and historic temples.

Destination 1. Uluwatu (3 nights)

Uluwatu is located on the southwestern coast of Bali and is known for its beautiful cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, the famous Uluwatu Temple, and surf beaches. It is popular among surfers for its great waves. Even if you're not into surfing, there is plenty to see and do.

• Travel time: Uluwatu is about 15km from the airport (30 minutes)
• Accommodation: Home Bience Hostel | A hostel where you will meet many surfers, run by a very friendly Balinese lady.

What to do in Uluwatu?

• Surfing
•  Visit viewpoints
  • Jaran Hill
  • Balangan
  • Karang Boma Cliff (Uluwatu Cliff)

Destination 2. Ubud (4 nights)

Ubud is also known as the cultural heart of Bali and is famous for its beautiful rice fields, traditional art and culture, sacred temples, and relaxed atmosphere. There is plenty to do in Ubud, from visiting rice fields to climbing an active volcano.

• Travel time: Ubud is about 55km from Uluwatu (90 minutes).
• Accommodation: Ubud Rice Field House (Hostel) | A small-scale hostel with a small rice field in the garden.

10 things to do in Ubud!

1. Visit temples!
The Saraswati Water Temple and Ubud Palace are located in the center of Ubud and are both free to visit. Outside of Ubud, you can find the Goa Gajah Temple and the sacred Pura Tirta Empul, where you can participate in a purification ceremony.

2. Rice Field Walk: Google Maps link here!

Stop along the way, for example, at Ubud Shanti Warung for a delicious meal with a view of the rice fields.

Explore more rice fields!

3. Visit the Instagram-famous Tegalalang rice terraces. Hopefully, you'll have better luck, and the terraced rice fields won't be so muddy.

4. Rent a scooter and ride along the endless rice fields.

After my visit to Tegalalang, I started riding around on a scooter and stumbled upon some beautiful rice fields along the way. They weren't terraced like the ones in Tegalalang, but since they were in full bloom, they were much more colorful.

5. Climb an active volcano: Mount Batur.

To manage your expectations for climbing Mount Batur volcano, I shared my experiences in this blog post.

6. Relax during a Yoga class

Ubud is a popular destination for yoga, meditation, and wellness. My tip: Yogabarn!

7. Visit a coffee and tea plantation.
Taste numerous types of coffee and tea!

8. Visit Waterfalls: Kanto Lampo, Teganungan, Tibuama

Ubud is more than just rice fields, as it also has some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island!

9. Enjoy Culinary Ubud: Sayan Night Market.

My favorites? Serabi pancakes, Bakso, and Nasi Campur.

10. Explore local art and crafts.

Destination 3. Explore authentic Bali during a Homestay

Destination number three of your journey through Bali will undoubtedly be the most authentic: a homestay in a Balinese village in the countryside. It was by far the best thing I did in Bali because it gave me a better insight into the way the local people live on this island. I now have so much respect for the people and greatly admire their way of life.

Be surprised by the beautiful rural surroundings and get to know Balinese culture extensively during 2 unforgettable days in Gadungan, a small village in the Tababan province. From attending a local ceremony to working in the rice fields, an unforgettable experience awaits you!

Destination 4. Nusa Lembongan (1-2 nights)

It's time to experience the relaxed island life on Nusa Lembongan, one of the three inhabited Nusa Islands southeast of Bali. This island is known for its beautiful beaches, powerful waves crashing against the rocks at Devil's Tears, and above all, the laid-back island life.

• Travel time: Nusa Lembongan is an hour and 15 minutes from Ubud (including a 45-minute ferry ride).
• Accommodation: Dream Beach Hostel | Friendly staff, pleasant atmosphere, swimming pool, and a comfortable bed in a 6-person room.

What to do in Nusa Lembongan?

• Visit Dream Beach, a beautiful white sandy beach with clear turquoise water.

• Devil's Tears: the feared spot on Nusa Lembongan where waves crash against the rocks with great force. 

• Enjoy panoramic views at Panorama Point.

• Snorkeling and diving.

• Relax and enjoy the delightful island life.

Exploring Nusa Ceningan

The famous yellow bridge connects Nusa Lembongan to the neighboring Nusa Ceningan. Here you can: 

• Spot surfers and go cliff jumping at Mahana Point.
• Visit the 3-island viewpoint.
• Relax at Secret Beach.
• Blue Lagoon: a bay with clear turquoise water and waves crashing against the rocks.

Destination 5. Nusa Penida (2-3 nights)

Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa Islands and was undoubtedly my favorite. If there's something that makes my heart beat faster, it's a volcanic island with a rugged coastline, exactly what you'll find on Nusa Penida.

• Travel time: Nusa Penida is about 20 minutes away by ferry from the Yellow Bridge.

• Accommodation: Nuansa Penida Hostel | Above-average luxury hostel with two swimming pools and beautiful bungalows serving as shared sleeping spaces.

What to do in Nusa Penida?

• Uitzichtpunten bezoeken:

Manta Point, Saren Cliff, 1000 Islands Viewpoint, Teletubbies Viewpoint, and Banah Cliff Point. Each of them is a beautiful viewpoint on Nusa Penida!

• Visit the famous T-Rex beach, Kelingking Beach.

• Visit more beaches: Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach & Broken Beach.

• Swim with manta rays and explore the beautiful coral while snorkeling.

• Visit the underground Pura Goa Giri Pitri temple located in a cave.

Destination 6. Sidemen (2 nights)

After leaving the relaxed island life behind, it's time for another authentic piece of Bali: Sidemen. Located in the east of Bali, this charming village offers an authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots. The landscape surrounding Sidemen is breathtaking with beautiful rice fields, rolling hills, and a majestic view of Mount Agung, the highest volcano in Bali.

• Travel time: Sidemen is about 41KM away from Sanur (60 minutes), with the journey from Nusa Penida to Sanur taking about 35 minutes by ferry.

• Accommodation: Maha Neka Villa | For only €12.00 per night, I had a double room with a view of Mount Agung, including a delicious breakfast!

What to do in Sidemen?

• Bukit Cinta: one of the most beautiful viewpoints for Mount Agung.
• Have dinner with a view of the rice fields!

• Explore the village: visit a local market and enjoy the local cuisine.
• Visit the Maha Gangga Valley.
• Visit the Tirta Gangga Water Palace.

• Pura Besakih: visit Bali's mother temple.

Island 2. Java

On to Java, where a mix of natural beauty, rich history and culture, and bustling cities awaits you. The largest island in Indonesia has a lot to offer for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and history.

Destination 7. Jakarta (1 night)

Welcome to Jakarta, the bustling and chaotic capital of Indonesia with a population of over 10 million people. The city has a rich history, vibrant streets, modern skyscrapers, historical landmarks, large shopping malls, and countless markets.

• Travel time: From the international airport, it takes about 1 - 1.5 hours to reach the city center.

• Accommodation: Konko Hostel Jakarta | Ideally located near various attractions.

1 day in Jakarta!

In 1 day in Jakarta, you can visit the National Museum, the National Monument, the Istiqlal Mosque, and the Dutch district of Batavia.

Destination 8. Bandung (3 nights)

Bandung may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning your trip to Java, Indonesia's largest island. The capital of West Java province is often skipped in the average Java itinerary, which is also reflected in the number of tourists visiting the city. Bandung's nickname is the "Paris of Java" due to the influx of numerous prosperous Dutch settlers in the early 20th century.

• Travel time: Bandung is about a 3-hour journey from Jakarta (by train).

• Accommodation: Ostel by Ostic (Hostel) | A small-scale hostel where mostly locals stayed.

What to do in Bandung?

• Visit the Satay Building, which used to house the Department of Transportation and Water Management during the colonial era.
• Go shopping at the "Paris van Java" shopping mall!
• Explore Jalan Braga, Bandung's most pleasant street for walking, shopping, and enjoying a nice atmosphere with food and drinks.
• Visit the crater lake of Kawah Putih.
• Endless green stretches: visit the tea plantations of Ciwidey.

Destination 9. Jogjakarta (3 nights)

The penultimate destination of the trip is Yogyakarta, or Jogja, the city known as the cultural heart of Java. Jogjakarta has a lot to offer, from historical landmarks and museums to local markets and culinary highlights.

• Travel time: Jogjakarta is about a 7-8 hour journey from Bandung (by train).
• Accommodation: Wonderloft Hostel Jogja | Great vibe, comfortable beds, and friendly staff!

What to do in Jogjakarta?

• Visit the Prambanan Temple Complex, the second-largest Hindu temple complex in the world.
• Visit Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple.
• Shop on Malioboro street, Jogjakarta's most famous shopping street.
• Visit the Beringharjo market, the largest and oldest traditional market in Jogja.
  
  

• Enjoy the local cuisine: Gudeg, Lupis, Kopi Joss, Es Buah, Ronde Tape Susu.
• Experience the sunrise with a view of the Borobudur temple.
• Discover Batik: a pure form of art!
• Taman Sari: the former water palace of the Sultan.
• Kraton: the former residence of the Sultan.
• Explore the trendy Prawirotaman district.
  
  

Destination 10. Malang (3 nights)

Welcome to Malang, the final destination of this 4-week journey through Bali & Java, Indonesia. Malang, located in East Java, is the perfect base for visiting Mount Bromo and the magical Tumpak Sewu waterfall. The city is also known for its two colorful neighborhoods and a variety of local delicacies, such as Tahu Campur, Es Cin Cau, Bakso, and Tahu Lontong!

Malang: Base for Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Indonesia. With its 2,329 meters, the volcano is one of the highest peaks in the Tengger Massif. The stunning landscape offers picturesque views and is an absolute must to explore on your own.

Check out this blog to learn how your day (or night) will look like when visiting Bromo!

Explore Colorful Malang: Jodipan and Blue Village

The houses in these neighborhoods are painted in all colors of the rainbow, creating a lively and unique atmosphere. The story behind it makes the transformation even more beautiful!

Visit the Tumpak Sewu waterfall

Tumpak Sewu, also known as the "thousand waterfalls," is a stunning waterfall surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It is truly a unique experience that you won't find at other waterfalls.

An overview

For your convenience!