Top tips from a local expert in Indonesia

With a vast landscape of more than 17,000 islands, home to a beautiful diversity of cultures, landscapes and communities, Indonesia has much to offer all manner of travellers. From the more adventurous in search of new and life-altering experiences, to those whose happy place is nothing more than a stretch of secluded shoreline, Indonesia is there to please. Here we caught up with Agung, a local expert in Indonesia, for a few quick insights and recommendations of things to try, see and do in his much-loved home country.

What’s your favourite thing about living in Indonesia?

Indonesia‘s charm lies in its hundreds of tribes, each with a distinct culture and way of life. Living here, I’m constantly delighted by these unique cultural experiences and the joy of meeting new people. It’s a place where surprise and enjoyment go hand in hand with daily life.

As a local expert in Indonesia, what are a few things you would recommend someone visiting should do?

I would recommend exploring the volcanic landscape of Bromo, the gigantic Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, the daily life and traditions of Bali, and the white sandy beaches of Lombok.

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone visiting Indonesia?

To explore Indonesia, please allow at least two weeks to experience the best that this country can offer. It’s a big and diverse place, full of things to see and do!

As a local expert in Indonesia, what would you say are your country’s top three highlights?

The orangutans and the rainforest of Sumatra – see them in person for a very special wildlife experience.

The unique culture and traditions of Bali, which should be explored off the beaten track.

The living heritage of the Komodo dragon, endemic to various islands of Indonesia.

What’s the best food for anyone to try during their time in Indonesia?

My top three recommendations are rendang (a spice-rich beef stew), nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice), and sate kambing (lamb satay).

Our top trip ideas: itineraries by local experts in Indonesia

Indonesia offers a staggering wealth of variety, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for nature and wildlife experiences, cultural or culinary adventures, beach relaxation and jungle idylls, or perhaps a little bit of everything combined into one epic trip – it can sometimes be hard to know where to begin.

Here, we run through a few of our top itineraries, each one crafted by a local expert in Indonesia – you can use them as a base to start piecing together your dream trip, together with help from an in-destination expert like Agung.

• Indonesia: highlights and jungle adventures: on this 14-day exploration of Java and Bali, you’ll dive deep into an emerald-hued landscape of jungles, islands and volcanic peaks, with plenty of historical gems and beach relaxation thrown in for good measure. What’s not to love?
• Island charms: Bali, Nusa Penida & Gili Air: put a unique spin on your next beach break with this island-hopping expedition across Indonesia’s most ravishing destinations. We love the opportunities to explore both above and below the water’s surface, to encounter myriad marine life amidst days of cultural excursions and snoozing on pristine sands.
• Traditions & culture of Sulawesi: see a different side to Indonesia with a trip into the heart of Sulawesi, whose rich and entrancing cultural tapestry is unforgettable. Visit silk-weaving and wood-carving villages, an ancient burial site hewn out of rock, floating houses amidst bird-rich wetlands, and end with some beach time and snorkelling.

The best time to visit Indonesia

When you choose to visit Indonesia will depend on what you’d like to do on your trip and which part of the country you intend to visit. April to October is Indonesia’s dry season, ideal for water sports and beach relaxation, while November to March is the cooler albeit wetter rainy season, perfect for exploring landmark sites without the crowds. We’d recommend shoulder-season visits from October to November and March to May, when temperatures are more manageable than during peak season, and the crowds and prices are both smaller – making for an altogether more enjoyable, responsible and stress-free visit.

Make it happen

Feeling ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime in this gem of Southeast Asia? Get in touch with one of our friendly local experts in Indonesia, for more inspiration and planning advice tailored to your individual needs and preferences.