Indonesia Travel Budget - Visit Indonesia on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Indonesia is a very popular destination known for Mount Bromo in Malang, Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, and the Gate of Heaven in Bali. It should be at the top of your travel list. In this travel cost guide, we'll break down everything you need to plan your trip's budget. From accommodation to food to sightseeing and transportation, we'll give you the details you need to enjoy every moment of your trip without overspending. So, whether you're exploring the energy of Jakarta, eating the delicious cuisine in Bandung, or taking in the beauty of Lombok, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Indonesia?

You should plan to spend around $68 (Rp1,116,183) per day on your vacation in Indonesia. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $26 (Rp417,499) on meals
  • $8.68 (Rp142,011) on local transportation
  • $60 (Rp989,637) on hotels

A one week trip to Indonesia for two people costs, on average, $955 (Rp15,626,562). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $68
    Rp1,116,183
  • One Week Per person
    $477
    Rp7,813,281
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $955
    Rp15,626,562
  • One Month Per person
    $2,046
    Rp33,485,490
  • One Week For a couple
    $955
    Rp15,626,562
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $1,909
    Rp31,253,124
  • One Month For a couple
    $4,092
    Rp66,970,980
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Indonesia cost?

A one week trip to Indonesia usually costs around $477 (Rp7,813,281) for one person and $955 (Rp15,626,562) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Indonesia on average costs around $955 (Rp15,626,562) for one person and $1,909 (Rp31,253,124) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Indonesia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Indonesia on average costs around $2,046 (Rp33,485,490) for one person and $4,092 (Rp66,970,980) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Indonesia?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Indonesia is $134 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Indonesia expensive to visit?

Indonesia is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Indonesia is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Vietnam or the Philippines.

No matter your travel style or budget, Indonesia has plenty of sights, activities, and places to stay that will meet your needs. Hostels in Ubud, Yogyakarta, and Gili Trawangan provide budget accommodation, while luxury hotels cater to those who prefer something more upscale, and there are mid-range hotels ideal for families or couples.

Indonesia offers a luxury experience, but you can still keep your spending in check with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $25 (Rp404,017) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $70 (Rp1,116,183) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $212 (Rp3,361,267) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Indonesia.

For more details, see Is Indonesia Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Indonesia?

The average Indonesia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Indonesia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Indonesia cost?

Indonesia on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$11
(Rp173,782) 		$30
(Rp494,819) 		$96
(Rp1,567,671)
Local Transportation 1 $2.80
(Rp45,808) 		$8.68
(Rp142,011) 		$31
(Rp509,173)
Food 2 $9.84
(Rp160,981) 		$26
(Rp417,499) 		$68
(Rp1,113,560)
Entertainment 1 $3.48
(Rp56,919) 		$9.45
(Rp154,739) 		$28
(Rp452,736)
Alcohol 2 $1-3
(Rp16,006-48,018) 		$2-7
(Rp38,888-116,665) 		$5-16
(Rp88,986-266,957)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Ubud, Bali Ubud, Bali

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to manage your expectations when it comes to your travel budget. While many people like to see themselves as "budget" travelers on a shoestring budget, most find this type of travel uncomfortable. Think about what you enjoy and how you've traveled previously. Are you drawn to resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or do you prefer hostels, instead? How important is eating out to you? And what type of transportation do you prefer? Your answers to these questions will greatly affect your overall travel budget.

Who are Budget Travelers?

It's common to hear that a visit to Indonesia can cost just $25 a day, but unless you're willing to forgo many comforts, expect to spend significantly more.

Backpackers often find ways to stick to this tight budget, but it generally means staying in hostel dorms, grabbing meals at the cheapest spots or fast food places, relying on public transport or walking, and visiting only free attractions.

Fortunately, Indonesia is home to numerous hostels, and you'll find the largest number in Ubud, Yogyakarta, and Gili Trawangan. For visitors of all kinds, food is an important aspect of Indonesia, but those on a budget often eat street food or whip up meals in their hostels, potentially missing out on the culinary experiences available.

What Makes You an Average Traveler?

For families and couples traveling for fun, staying in a mid-range hotel, eating at popular restaurants, and visiting famous museums and attractions with entry fees is typical. Most visitors will want to go to Mount Bromo in Malang, Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, or the Gate of Heaven in Bali on their trip. As you can expect, most of these experiences come at a price, so it's safer to plan for a trip budget around $70 per person each day.

With so many hotels and vacation rentals in Indonesia, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. If you're splitting the cost with a partner, friend, or kids, you'll be able to reduce the daily per-person costs, too. You'll find plenty of family-friendly areas like Bali and Gili Trawangan where hotels and restaurants cater to little ones. Consider staying at Tandjung Sari Hotel in Sanur or Klumpu Bali Resort in Sanur for a kid-friendly experience. Find more hotel options for families and couples in our hotel costs guide for Indonesia here.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

For a lavish experience with the highest level of comfort and service, expect a price tag around $212. Booking five-star hotels, dining at top restaurants, splurging on once-in-a-lifetime excursions, and hiring private drivers will put you in the luxury travel tier. You'll be enjoying the good life in places like Bali and Ubud. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Tailor-Made Indonesia Highlights Trip, No Group & Daily Depart - offered by Agate Travel.

Accommodation Budget in Indonesia

Indonesia has a surprising range of hotel prices. During peak season, everything gets more expensive, so visit in the off-season for better deals. There's also a big gap between budget and luxury options, but booking early helps keep costs down.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Indonesia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $60 (Rp989,637). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $30 (Rp494,819) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $30
    Rp494,819
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $60
    Rp989,637

Hotels in Indonesia

Looking for a hotel in Indonesia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Indonesia

The average hotel room price in Indonesia based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $49 in the low season and $91 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Jakarta
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Jakarta. You can expect to spend anywhere from $14 to $103 depending on your budget and needs. Also, a great hotel option is Kosenda Hotel that runs about $39 per night. You can expect to pay around $10 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Surabaya
As one of the hidden gems, Surabaya offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $12 in the low season to $69 during the busy peak season. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out TS Suites Surabaya for $40 and Four Points By Sheraton Surabaya starting at $58. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $8 for a dorm bed.

Bandung
In Bandung, which is a terrific city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $13 in the low season to $142 during the peak season. EL Royale Hotel Bandung ($36) is one of the best hotel options here, and The Papandayan is also good, and starts at $46. You can expect to pay around $9 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Indonesia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $8.68 (Rp142,011) per person, per day, on local transportation in Indonesia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Indonesia is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $8.68
    Rp142,011
Local Transportation Tips

In Indonesia, public transit options are somewhat limited, especially if you're not heading to the biggest cities. It's advisable to arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour or hired driver. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.

Getting around larger cities with a car, such as Jakarta, can be quite challenging due to their busy and crowded nature. Taxis and rideshare servies often come with a hefty price tag, and traffic can be a hassle. By opting for public transit or walking, you can save money and enjoy the city more easily.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Below, you'll find common transit prices in Indonesia, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.


  • Taxi to Station
    Rp17,500
  • Motorbike Rental
    Rp50,000


Food Budget in Indonesia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Indonesia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Indonesia is $26 (Rp417,499) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $26
    Rp417,499

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Indonesia is about $26 (Rp417499) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $10 to $70 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Indonesia are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $8
  • Lunch: $4 to $13
  • Dinner: $9 to $21
  • Coffee: $2
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $4

Because Indonesia is made up of so many different islands you will find great regional variation in the cuisine. Some of the common flavors used throughout the islands include peanuts, sugar, and chilies. It's easy to fall into the rut of eating fried rice with every meal as this is often the easiest and cheapest food to find, but remember to be adventurous and seek out other options because there are plenty available.

Nasi Goreng: Nasi Goreng is literally translated into "fried rice." This dish is a traditional Indonesian fried rice that is common all over the country. It's made with precooked rice, sweetened soy sauce, shallots, garlic, chilies, and tamarind and often topped with eggs, chicken or prawns. There is also a slightly different version which is made with salted, dried fish, and has a subtly different flavor.

Bakmi: This is a thin egg noodle dish that is boiled and served with a meat or vegetable topping. It's a wheat based noodle that is Chinese in its origin. It is most often prepared with diced chicken and soy sauce, but it is not unusual for other meats to be used. You can find this dish almost anywhere in Indonesia, in restaurants or street stalls alike.

Perkedel: These deep fried potato patties are often served with meat or vegetables. They're made from mashed potatoes that are flavored with shallots, spices and garlic. They're then dipped in egg and deep fried and are often served alongside a coconut and chicken based soup.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Indonesia is a famous foodie destination, with its cuisine celebrated across the globe. A significant number of tourists come solely for the culinary experience. Ubud, Bali, and Bandung are some of the top cities for those seeking the best food.

Ubud
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Ubud. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

Bali
Bali is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Bandung
Bandung is well known for its food scene. The city is a wonderful foodie destination with tons of street food and local options. The population is predominantly Sundanese, and the cuisine reflects that. The dishes involve a lot of raw vegetables and fresh ingredients. Make sure you try the batagor (fried tofu), soto Bandung (meat soup), and siomay (fish or chicken dumplings).

Malang
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in Malang. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

Gili Trawangan
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Gili Trawangan. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're staying in a popular resort area, such as Ubud, Bali, or Lombok, the resorts will sometimes offer a variety of food options, and it's important to know the details to understand the prices. Some resorts offer full board, which includes every meal, while some offer half board, which is only two meals. Others might have on-site restaurants that may or may not be included in the price. Also, drinks are sometimes included, but not always. Check with the resort beforehand so that you know which meals and drinks you might need to pay for.

If you're spending a week or more in Ubud, Bali, or Lombok, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.

When dining out with children, look for eateries that have a childrens' menu. It can save you a lot of money since these meals are typically more affordable. Some restaurants might not show the kids' options on the menu, so don't hesitate to ask your waiter first.

Many hotels come with breakfast included in the price, but some add it as an extra fee. The quality and cost of breakfast can change depending on the hotel. Knowing what to expect can assist you in deciding whether the hotel buffet is a worthwhile expense or if a nearby bakery or café would be a better choice.

Make sure to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks at every opportunity. It's also a great way to help the environment.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Indonesia. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Bali Cooking Class with Culture Experience for $50 details
  • Authentic Balinese Cooking Class in Ubud for $49 details
  • Balinese Cooking Class & Tanah Lot Temple Visit - Private & All-Inclusive for $95 details
  • Traditional Tempeh Making & Cooking Balinese Cuisine for $39 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Food and meal prices in Indonesia, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.


  • Dinner
    Rp12,000
  • Dinner
    Rp44,000
  • Lunch for 2
    Rp144,000
  • Dinner for 2
    Rp158,000
  • Lunch for Two
    Rp130,000
  • Coffee
    Rp20,000
  • Lunch for Two
    Rp219,450
  • Bali Cafe for Two
    Rp433,000


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Indonesia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Indonesia typically cost an average of $9.45 (Rp154,739) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $9.45
    Rp154,739
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Indonesia is a highly sought-after travel destination, providing numerous opportunities for visitors to fulfill their bucket list wishes. Some of the top spots to visit in Indonesia include Ubud, Bali, and Gili Trawangan.

Ubud
Ubud is a town on the island of Bali that attracts tourists, vacationers, honeymooners, and backpackers. It's a well-known destination and what was once a serene and peaceful destination has become well-established on the travel circuit. It's still a beautiful destination, though, with jungles, rice paddies, and temples offering a unique cultural setting.

Bali
Bali is one of the most famous islands in Indonesia. It is a diverse island that has many religious temples, beautiful beaches, inland rainforest, and party towns. The island attracts backpackers, remote workers, and all kinds of vacationers.

Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the largest of the Gili Islands. It also attracts the largest number of tourists and has long been popular with backpackers who stay at cheap accommodation and enjoy the nightly parties. In recent years there's been an increase in high end accommodation and the island has shifted a bit in who visits. Today there are frequently families and couples who come to enjoy the idyllic setting and world class scuba diving.

Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is often called "Jogja" by locals. It's located on the island of Java and it is a rich cultural city that is filled with temples, palaces, and night markets. Visitors often use it as a base for exploring nearby Borobudur Temple.

Bandung
Bandung is the capital of West Java. It is a cultural city with a wonderful culinary scene. It's also located near several volcanoes and scenic areas as well as sprawling tea plantations. There are a large number of university students around town, including study abroad and international students. The city is also cooler than much of Indonesia due to its higher elevation.

Sightseeing Tips

Some of the most picturesque locations in Indonesia include Bali, Lombok, and Mount Bromo. These incredibly beautiful destinations will create lasting memories, so don't forget to include them on your itinerary.

For those who love scuba diving, Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Lombok provide some of the best opportunities. Make sure to plan ahead, taking into account both the best season to visit and your overall budget.

Indonesia is full of terrific beach destinations. When the weather is nice, many visitors flock to the beach for a relaxing vacation as well as plenty of fun activities. A few of the best beaches are found in Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Lombok.

A nice way to explore destinations in Indonesia is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Ubud Tour - Ubud Highlight - Private Tour All inclusive for $83 details
  • Ubud Tour - Best of Ubud - All Inclusive for $90 details
  • Bali : Ubud Private Tours for $34 details
  • Tickets inclusive: Ubud Wonder-Full Day Tour for $40 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Indonesia, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.


  • Cooking School
    Rp450,000
  • Snorkelling Trip
    Rp200,000
  • Spa for Two
    Rp870,000


Nightlife Budget in Indonesia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $4.75 (Rp77,776) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Indonesia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $4.75
    Rp77,776
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Indonesia is a must-visit for nightlife lovers, as it attracts crowds from around the world eager to experience its legendary scene. Top nightlife cities include Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Yogyakarta.

Bali
The nightlife in Bali is quite popular. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Gili Trawangan
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Gili Trawangan. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Yogyakarta
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Yogyakarta. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Ubud
Nightlife in Ubud is not to be missed. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Bandung
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Bandung. There's a large student population and a number of bars around town. The nightlife has a laidback vibe and many people enjoy hanging out with friends a local pub.

Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is always fun, but if you cut down on alcohol, you'll see a noticeable difference in your travel costs.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Indonesia. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Sababay Winery Bali: Winery Tour with Wine Tasting for $18 details

Recommended


Travel Costs Last Updated: Dec 3, 2024
Bali Bali

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • The peak season in Indonesia is in the summer when it's buzzing with tourists, and with the surge in visitors comes an increase in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and finding affordable accommodation can be a bit of a challenge. If you want to keep things budget-friendly, visiting during the shoulder or low seasons is a great way to avoid the crowds and save some money.
  • Locations like Ubud, Bali, and Gili Trawangan are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • Some destinations see visitors staying for longer periods of time. In places such as Ubud, Bali, and Lombok, it's common for people to stay for a week or so while they enjoy their vacation. Many families also travel with kids, so staying at an apartment or vacation rental is a great option for saving money. You'll enjoy a more comfortable space, perhaps with a kitchen and other amenities.
  • This country is a hotspot for backpackers and young travelers on a budget. If that sounds like you, there are plenty of hostels and affordable or free activities waiting to be explored. If you're looking to connect with like-minded adventurers, Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Lombok are fantastic choices where you can find hostels or low cost hotels, meet other travelers, and have a blast.
  • Many couples love heading to Indonesia for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Ubud, Bali, and Lombok.
  • Many visitors seek out a restful vacation at a resort. They enjoy the simplicity of not having to plan their trip or travel between destinations. Luxurious resorts provide a mix of serene lodging, engaging activities, and fantastic food. If you desire a calming location where you can indulge yourself stylishly, make your way to Ubud, Bali, or Lombok. This is where you'll find some of the best resorts in Indonesia.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Scuba diving spots around Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Lombok are very popular, but this activity comes at a cost. Expenses like dive trips, equipment rentals, and boat tours can take a significant bite out of your budget. It's also important to confirm your travel insurance covers any potential accidents.
  • Transportation in Indonesia can be a bit tricky unless you're in Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Bandung, where public transit is more available. You'll likely want to rent a car or book a tour beforehand, but be aware that it might affect how much you end up spending.
  • If you have young children with you, using a private car or taking a taxi/Uber can make things smoother than dealing with public transport. That said, it does come at a higher cost.
  • For families, many hotels in Jakarta are not large enough to accommodate a family of four. Space can be tight, so be prepared to find a larger hotel or pay for two rooms.

Lombok Lombok
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Traveling in Indonesia
Indonesia Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Indonesia is a popular island country in Southeast Asia. The country has over 18,000 islands, about one third of which are inhabited. It's also the fourth most populated country in the world, and has the largest Muslim population. The country is intersected by the Equator and sits in both the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The fastest way to travel around Indonesia is by plane. Unfortunately this is also the most expensive. Your best airline options are domestic airlines such as Garuda and Lion Air. There are also a handful of discount airlines which offer cheap flights. Ferries are another popular way to travel around Indonesia. The main ferry company is PELNI and you can often choose between slow and fast boat options. Each boat also has several classes of tickets so you can select your price and comfort level.

Tourists come to Indonesia for a relaxing and beautiful island vacation which includes stunning beaches and exotic rainforests. The country's most popular destination is Bali, but there is so much more to Indonesia. The tropical forests are the second largest in the world, and unfortunately they are disappearing rapidly. The largest ethnic group in Indonesia is the Javanese and the most prevalent religion is Islam. The people are quite friendly and welcoming of both tourists and the tourist dollar. You may have to negotiate your prices down quite a bit.

Despite its popularity with travelers, Indonesia remains a budget travel destination. Destinations on the beach are often slightly more expensive than inland options. Transportation is likely to be your greatest expense, particularly if you plan on traveling around a lot. If you're looking for a more comfortable, luxury hotel, there are also plenty of options available to you, and many are more reasonably priced than their western counterparts. Whatever you goal in visiting Indonesia, you are likely to be impressed and thrilled with the experience you have there.

At A Glance
  • Most people take at least one flight while they're in Indonesia. Be prepared for scheduling delays as there are many. The safety records of some airlines are sub par so it is best to stick with companies such as Garuda and Air Asia, which are run within international standards. Adam Air, Lion Air and Mandala have all experienced fatal crashes in the last few years. Still, flying is more comfortable and safer than driving in most of Indonesia.

  • If you choose to travel by ferry you will have five different classes which you can choose from. First class offers cabins with two beds each, second class has four beds per cabin, third class has six beds and fourth class is dormitory style. Both first and second classes have shared washrooms. Ekonomi class is also an option but it is recommended you bring a mat and arrive early. Also watch out for pickpockets.

  • Scuba diving in Indonesia is excellent. Some of the best places to go for diving include Bunaken in Northern Sulawesi, Wakatobi in South East Sulawesi and Raja Ampat in Papua. There are plenty of diving opportunities in Bali, but these are generally mediocre at best. If you're an avid scuba diving you will do better to head elsewhere.

  • Many people enjoy going to spas in Indonesia. There really are options for every budget. The most low cost options are generally housed in small huts and are simple facilities. If you're looking for the most extravagant spas then head for the five star hotels, although these are anything but cheap.

  • ATMs are very prevalent in most touristy areas and all major cities. Do plan ahead however as many ATMs have incredibly low withdrawal limits (about US$55 per day). It's also trickier to find ATMs if you're traveling into more rural areas that aren't popular with tourists. In these cases it is best to carry money with you.

Related:

Looking for a hostel in Malaysia or Indonesia?

Traveling alone to Kuala Lumpur or Penang?

Looking for a party in Singapore or Bali?

Top Tourist Attractions

Borobudur: This is a beautiful Buddhist Temple that dates back to the 9th century. It is a common destination for many pilgramages and its Gupta style architecture highlights the Indian influence in the area.

Bali: With its beautiful beaches, thriving nightlife, and great opportunities to see flora and fauna, Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia. Many travelers choose to visit Bali exclusively, as it is a diverse and impressive island.

Lake Toba: On Sumatra, this beautiful lake is the largest volcanic lake in the world and offers some breathtaking views. The lake is an impressive one hundred kilometers long and thirty kilometers wide and at its deepest point it is 505 meters deep.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


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