10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Indonesia
With its peaceful culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Indonesia has become a top destination for many travelers. On my two-month trip to Indonesia, I swam with turtles, hiked mountains under the stars, and practiced yoga among the rice fields. The possibilities for adventure and wonder are endless.
There are so many incredible sights and experiences that it can be easy to get lost or overwhelmed. This is why I wanted to share some of the tips I wish I knew before setting off on my Indonesian adventure. From essential packing tips to cultural insights, this guide will ensure that your trip to Indonesia is not only unforgettable but also smooth and straightforward.
Let's dive into everything you need to know to navigate this tropical paradise like a professional traveler.
1. How to apply for the Indonesian visitor visa
If you plan on staying for more than a month, apply for your visa online. You can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) which lasts for your first 30 days, but it’s a painful process to extend it. When I extended my physical visa, it cost twice as much as if I had a virtual one. Plus I had to send my passport away for a few days and make several appointments. The online visa is way more straightforward, but you just have to submit your request at least 48 hours before your trip. Apply for your visa directly on the Indonesian e-Visa Website.
2. Top guided tour and backpacker recommendation in Indonesia.
The top backpacker attraction is undoubtedly the Komodo Tour. You can take the tour from Lombok to Flores or the other way around. It’s a four-day trip and activities include swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling, and visiting Komodo National Park. Keep in mind that you will be staying on a boat with a random group of people, but people often get very close with their group and love the experience. I recommend booking with Wanua Adventure.
3. Traffic in Bali is as crazy as they say.
I’m from LA and even I was shocked. If you are looking to save time, remember that Grab bikes will always be faster than cars, try to avoid driving during rush hour, and always check if there’s a ferry option in lieu of a car.
4. Bali belly is real, but don’t let it stop you from experiencing local warungs.
There are avoidable risks, of course. I opted to brush my teeth with bottled water and I avoided street food as much as possible (the one time I ate it, hungry and desperate on a long taxi ride, is what eventually got me sick), but there are also risks worth taking. You can learn more about balancing cultural immersion with the risks here.
If you’re nervous, check Google reviews and carry around meds like Imodium. I also started taking probiotics a few weeks before my trip and made sure I had my Hepatitis A vaccine.
5. You may need to learn how to motorbike.
Motor biking is the main (and only) way to get around Lombok, Amed, and other areas that don’t have Grab or Gojek. There may be taxis, but they are far more pricey and inconvenient. Plus, driving is fun and gives you a lot more autonomy to explore things the way that you like. If you learn how to drive, wear a helmet, carry your license on you, and never drive under the influence.
6. The travel days are insane.
Of every country I visited in Southeast Asia, Indonesia probably had the most chaotic travel days. I once watched a group of grown men get into a fistfight on a pier because the ferry was so delayed. I booked most of my ferries or buses with 12Go Asia, but I am always prepared for my transportation to take longer than it says. Bring snacks and water on travel days to stay sane.
7. Sketch out your route in advance.
Even if you just focus on the area between Bali and Lombok (which I’d say is the most popular), it’s huge with very long travel days. Try to plan your route intentionally to save yourself travel time. I did not do this and I ended up wasting a lot of time on manic travel days. You especially want to bear in mind your travel time to the airport for both of your flights.
8. Pack modest clothing.
Due to many of Indonesia’s cultural norms and religious beliefs, you may want to pack more conservative clothing. This especially includes your swim and beachwear. It’s a pretty safe country so I wouldn’t worry too much, but you’ll feel more comfortable and safe if you're more covered up in certain areas. You don’t need to worry about it too much in Canggu or Uluwatu, but I’d advise bringing a one-piece on an island like Lombok or Gili Air.
9. There is so much more to see than Bali!
Indonesia is the fourth most populated country in the world with over 17,000 islands. If you’re looking to stay near Bali out of convenience, Nusa Penida has some beautiful sights and cultural history and the Gilis are such a unique experience. Either way, I strongly recommend getting off Bali at least once.
10. There's an island for everything.
If you are interested in checking out some places other than Bali, there’s a great island for every type of travel. Here are some quick recommendations based on popular activities:
Surfing - Lombok, Sumbawa
Scuba diving - Nusa Penida, Flores
Yoga - Gili Air
Doing the Banana Pancake Trail?Check out more recommendations from around SouthEast Asia:)
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