One Month Backpacking Indonesia Itinerary for Solo Travelers

Indonesia Itinerary Map

One Month Indonesia Itinerary

You will likely begin your journey in Jakarta, which is one giant city that is crowded yet charming. However, since we only have a month, I recommend staying one night to overcome the jet lag and familiarize yourself with the culture before taking an early morning train to Yogyakarta the next day. The train journey should take around 7 hours, so the earlier train you take, the better. For more information on this train, check out the train timetable, price, and route on Seat 61.

If you have more time, you can spend an extra night in the capital city and visit the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, the Kota Tua market in the evening, and the Old Harbour at night.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

For more things to do in Jakarta, check out:8 Best Things To Do in Jakarta

Yogyakarta, Java (2 nights)

Yogyakarta is known for its cultural heritage, and I recommend that you stay here for at least 2 nights to truly experience the city’s vibe. When you arrive at Lempuyangan train station, drop your bags at your hostel and head to Malioboro tourist street to rent a scooter for tomorrow. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the scooter before renting it. The price should not exceed 50,000 IDR per day.

The next day, wake up as early as possible and ride your scooter to the Borobudur complex for an amazing morning stroll around the temple. Borobudur is possibly one of the most well-known landmarks in Yogyakarta, and it gets really crowded during the day, so the earlier you go, the better.

With a scooter, you can also explore the city and visit places such as Prambanan Temples, the largest Hindu compound in Southeast Asia, the Chicken Church viewpoint, and Parangtritis Beach. Afterwards, return to Malioboro Street and find a good local restaurant to indulge in. Chicken Satay is a must-try dish here.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

For more things to do in Yogyakarta, check out:9 Best Things To Do in Yogyakarta

Surabaya, Java (1 night)

From Yogyakarta, you can catch an early morning train to Surabaya, which should take around 5 hours. Spend a night in Surabaya to organize your transportation to Mount Bromo the next day. You have two options: either organize a taxi through the guesthouses in Surabaya or do it independently.

To do it independently, you need to start early and take a train to Probolinggo, which should take no more than 2 hours. Upon arrival, take an o-jek to the bus station, from where you can continue your journey to Cemoro Lawang, a town on Mount Bromo’s caldera. You can choose between taking a bus or riding a motorbike, which takes approximately 1 hour.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

Mount Bromo – Cemoro Lawang, Java (1 night)

From Surabaya, it’s important to arrive in Cemoro Lawang before dark to have some time to explore the town and make arrangements to visit the crater the next morning. Your guesthouse should be able to organize a sunrise trip for you, which typically costs around 400,000 – 500,000 IDR. Additionally, the Cemara Indah Hotel offers one of the best views of Mount Bromo, so be sure to visit and check out the scenery.

The view of Mount Bromo at sunrise is undoubtedly one of the best views one can experience in Java. Despite the crowds during sunrise, I assure you it is truly worth it. If you venture slightly off the trail, you should have no trouble finding a serene spot to witness the breathtaking sunrise behind the crater. It’s an experience like no other. If you have arranged for a shared jeep at sunrise, they should pick you up around 3:30 AM and take you to the sunrise spot, down to the crater, and back.

After witnessing the sunrise, the jeep should take you down to the barren land near Mount Batok, where you can explore on foot. It is recommended to spend a few hours here and walk all the way up the crater and around it to truly appreciate the scale of the volcano. If you prefer, you can walk back to Cemoro Lawang instead of taking a jeep.

Banyuwangi – Kawah Ijen, Java (1 night)

After exploring Mount Bromo, take a bus to Probolinggo. From there, you can catch a minibus to Banyuwangi, which takes approximately 4 hours and costs around 25,000 IDR.

Banyuwangi is an excellent base for your upcoming hiking adventure to witness the mesmerizing blue flame of Kawa Ijen. Please note that the last bus from Probolinggo departs at 7 PM, so make sure to descend from Bromo before then to catch your transportation.

While in Banyuwangi, you can arrange a sunrise hiking trip with your guesthouse to take you to Kawah Ijen at night (400,000 – 600,000 IDR). This excursion allows you to hike up and witness the breathtaking blue flame of the Ijen crater lake.

The blue flame typically disappears around 5 AM, and the hike begins from Pos Paltuding, requiring approximately 1.5 hours of walking. Calculate your time carefully to ensure you don’t miss this unique experience. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the sunrise at Kawah Ijen.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

Ubud, Bali (3 nights)

After you visit Kawah Ijen, if you are on a tour, they should provide transportation back to Banyuwangi town. From there, you can take a ferry to Gilmanuk, which departs every 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Gilmanuk, you can take an executive bus to the Mengwi bus terminal. From the Mengwi bus terminal, you can either call a Grab or get a taxi to take you to your guesthouse in Ubud.

Personally, I think Bali is too crowded, and I believe that the best of Indonesia lies beyond it. Indeed, the stunning beaches of Lombok and Flores offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors. However, one aspect of Bali that stands out is its breathtaking architecture. If architectural beauty is of particular interest to you, then I recommend stopping in Bali to appreciate its unique architectural wonders.

Ubud is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in stunning Balinese architecture. You can explore notable sites such as the Water Palace, Tirta Empul complex (known for its freshwater pools where people cleanse themselves spiritually), and the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), all of which are well worth visiting for their architectural beauty and cultural significance.

Another delightful Ubud experience is leisurely walking through the Tegalalang rice terrace. I recommend arriving at the Tegalalang rice field around 7 AM to avoid the crowds. By doing so, you can enjoy the area’s serene beauty and have the whole place to yourself, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

For the best places to visit in Bali, check out:10 BEST Places To Visit In Bali

Gili Islands (2 nights)

After enjoying 2 days in Ubud, you have three options for your next destination: the Gili Islands. Gili Trawangan is the most budget-friendly option if you’re on a tight budget. However, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, you can choose between Gili Meno or Gili Air.

Regardless of which island you choose, you must go to Padang Bai Port to catch a ferry. Make sure to ask your guesthouse for the boat schedule, as it can vary depending on the weather forecast.

The Gili Islands, located off the coast of Lombok, offer a perfect escape for relaxation by the beach, snorkeling trips with sea turtles, and leisurely walks around the islands.

This is precisely why I agree with your sentiment. Instead of staying at crowded Bali beaches, you can discover numerous beautiful and serene beaches in other destinations. The Gilis provide a wonderful alternative with their tranquil surroundings and picturesque settings, allowing you to enjoy the beach in a more peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

Read more about my experience visiting Gili islands here:Paradise on Earth – Exploring the Gili Trawangan

Senggigi, Lombok (2 nights)

After spending a day on one of the Gili islands, you can take a boat to Senggigi in Lombok. Once there, you can rent a scooter and embark on a scenic drive along the coastal road of Northwest Lombok. This route offers stunning coastline views and allows you to explore the area’s natural beauty at your own pace.

Indeed, riding a scooter provides the freedom to stop and capture photos at any moment, and with a picturesque road like this, you’ll want to pause and take it all in. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning beaches near Senggigi while riding your scooter. Setangi Beach, Kerandangan Beach, and one of my personal favorites, Pandanan Beach, are all worth exploring. These beaches offer a tranquil and idyllic setting where you can relax, unwind, and appreciate the natural beauty of Lombok’s coastline.

I spent almost half a day at Pandanan Beach, simply relaxing in a small shack by the white sandy beach that overlooked the Gili Islands, and I had the beach all to myself.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

Mount Rinjani, Lombok (3 nights)

After enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, it’s time to venture into the mountains of Lombok, and one of the most prominent peaks on the island is Mount Rinjani. Rising majestically to a height of 3,726 meters above sea level, Mount Rinjani offers a thrilling adventure for hikers.

If you are passionate about hiking, I highly recommend embarking on this journey. The view from the summit is absolutely breathtaking. As a volcano within an island situated within another island, the scenery is nothing short of mind-blowing.

There are multiple trekking options for Mount Rinjani, but the recommended choice is the 4-day, 3-night trip. This itinerary allows you to summit the volcano on the second day, proceed to the lake, traverse the crater, and ascend towards the ridge on the other side more comfortably. If you opt for a guided tour, the accommodation for the night before the trek is usually included in the package, so there’s no need to make a separate booking.

If you have limited time, you can also go for a 3-day 2-night trip, but make sure that you have some experience hiking and trekking mountains. I did the 3-day 2-night trip, and it was tough, even for me. If you are fit and only have 3 days to spare, you can reserve the tour in advance here.

It’s important to remember that Mount Rinjani is a volcano, which means it presents challenging terrain, including sandy slopes and uneven grounds that can make climbing difficult. Therefore, ensuring you are in good physical condition before attempting the trek is crucial. Being adequately prepared and physically fit will enhance your overall experience and make the ascent more manageable.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

For more details on how to hike Mount Rinjani, check out:How to Climb Mount Rinjani

Komodo Islands Cruise, Lombok to Flores (4 nights)

After your Mount Rinjani trek, you can request the tour company to drop you off at Senggigi. From there, you can stroll along the tourist street and visit a travel agency to inquire about “Liveaboard” cruises to Labuan Bajo in Flores. They will be able to assist you in finding a suitable cruise that allows you to explore the beautiful region of Labuan Bajo and its surrounding islands.

The cruise will take you through the mesmerizing Komodo National Park, eventually arriving at Labuan Bajo in Flores. This scenic journey typically spans 4 days and 3 nights, allowing you to witness the captivating highlights of the national park.

You’ll have the opportunity to observe the legendary Komodo dragons on the Komodo and Rinca islands, witness the stunning sunrise at Padar Island, and even swim with majestic manta rays at Manta Point. It’s an incredible adventure that combines several remarkable experiences into one unforgettable trip.

If you’re not particularly keen on spending four days on a boat, an alternative option is available. You can take a cheap flight from Lombok to Bali in the early morning. From Bali, you can then catch another flight on the same day to Labuan Bajo. This way, you can save time and have a more convenient and efficient journey to reach Labuan Bajo and explore the area’s wonders without the extended boat trip.

From Labuan Bajo, you have more options, including a 1-day speedboat trip and a 2-day, 1-night Liveaboard cruise. These options will take you to all the previously mentioned highlights but at a faster pace and a more affordable price.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

You can find more detailed information here:backpacking guide to the Komodo Islands

Labuan Bajo, Flores (1 night)

If you take a Liveaboard cruise from Lombok, you can expect to arrive in Labuan Bajo in the evening after a 4-day journey. Therefore, you will need to spend a night in Labuan Bajo. Before you retire for the night, ask your hostel to assist you in booking a Gunung Mas bus for your trip to Ruteng the following morning.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

For a complete Flores itinerary, check out:A 10 Days Backpacking Itinerary for Flores

Ruteng, Flores (2 nights)

Ruteng is a peaceful small town nestled in the hills of Flores. While there, you can explore several attractions, such as the Spiderweb rice fields and the Hobbit cave, where the remains of the real-life hobbit (Homo Floresiensis) were discovered. To make the most of your visit, renting a scooter for the day is recommended. You can easily rent one at Kopi Mani Inspiration cafe, located at this location.

You will be pleasantly surprised by the warm and friendly nature of the people in Flores compared to Bali and Lombok. This can be attributed to Flores receiving fewer tourists, resulting in a more authentic and immersive experience of Indonesian tourism. It’s a wonderful aspect of visiting Flores, where you can truly connect with the local community and appreciate the people’s genuine hospitality.

Bajawa, Flores (2 nights)

After enjoying your time in Ruteng, you can catch an early morning bus to Bajawa, another charming town in Flores renowned for its traditional villages. One of the most notable villages is Beno, known for its size and informative boards that provide insights into its inhabitants’ history and unique culture.

To reach Beno, you can rent a scooter once again or arrange an o-jek (motorcycle taxi) through your guesthouse to conveniently explore the area.

If you have extra time, you can also go hiking up Gunung Inerie, a cone-shaped volcano that reaches a height of 2,245 meters. It stands tall and dominates the entire surrounding area, offering spectacular views to those who embark on the hike.

Ende, Flores (1 night)

From Bajawa, you can take a bus to Ende, which typically takes around 5 hours. You will spend a night in Ende, although there aren’t many attractions in the town. However, if you’re interested in trying the best Nasi Ayam (chicken rice) of your life, I recommend visiting Sari Rasa restaurant. The restaurant owner is a colorful individual who will gladly explain the menu to you and provide an exceptional dining experience.

Kelimutu – Moni, Flores (1 night)

Here comes the highlight of East Flores: Kelimutu, also known as the tri-colored volcano lakes that change their colors throughout the day. One lake appears blue, another green, and the last one black, originating from the same volcano. The best time to witness the vibrant colors is after sunrise. So make sure to stay until the sunlight illuminates the lake and marvel at the vividness of the colors.

To reach Kelimutu, you must catch an early morning bus from Ende to Moni. Once in Moni, you can arrange a sunrise trip with your guesthouse the following morning. There are two options for reaching the mountain: you can either rent your scooter and drive up the mountain at 4 AM or hire an o-jek to transport you up and down the mountain.

Looking for a complete guide to Kelimutu Lake? Check out:A Guide on How to Get to Kelimutu

Maumere, Flores (2 nights)

Last but not least, you can board a bus from Moni to Maumere, a coastal town renowned for its beautiful beaches and excellent scuba diving spots. This destination offers a delightful contrast to the mountainous regions of Ruteng, Bajawa, and Moni, as you’ll experience a warm tropical climate in Maumere. It’s the perfect place to conclude your remarkable journey.

Take a day to unwind on the sunny beach, and the following day, you can fly back to Bali from Maumere.

Denpasar, Bali (1 night)

Depending on your destination, you may need to spend a night in Bali before your onward flight. In such a case, it would be convenient to stay near the airport. Personally, I recommend considering the Manggar Indonesia Hotel, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the airport.

It offers affordable rates, features a pool, and provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening before you depart from Indonesia. You can find more information and book your stay at the Manggar Indonesia Hotel.

If you are looking for more activities to do here, be sure to check out some of the available tours and day trips.

Why Go to Indonesia?

Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in Southeast Asia, with over 17,000 islands, each with its own unique culture, beliefs, and way of life. There are countless reasons to visit Indonesia, as it offers many experiences.

From the Islamic and Hindu architectures of Java and Bali to the stunning beaches of Gili and Flores, and the breathtaking volcanoes scattered throughout the country, Indonesia has something for everyone. Indonesia is an ideal destination if you have a month-long holiday and are seeking a unique adventure that encompasses both beaches and mountains.

When to Go to Indonesia?

The best time to visit Indonesia is from May to September, which falls during the dry season. During this period, the weather is generally more predictable, and you can expect clear blue skies, making it ideal for exploring mountains and enjoying the beaches. If you’re interested in diving, it is also recommended to travel during this time, as the sea tends to be calmer compared to the off-season.

Which tourist SIM card is best for Indonesia?

Update: If your phone supports eSIM, I highly recommend checking out Airalo, a global eSIM marketplace. It allows you to stay connected affordably while traveling in Indonesia without having to switch out your physical SIM card.

Gone are the days when you needed to scramble to find a local SIM card at an airport upon arrival. You can purchase an eSIM before your arrival, and you’ll be good to go. If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, here is how you can get a local SIM card in Indonesia:

The availability of WIFI may vary depending on the region you are traveling in. While traveling in Bali and Lombok, I relied on WIFI without any issues. However, in more remote and mountainous regions like Java and Flores, purchasing a local SIM card for reliable internet access is advisable.

Personally, I used the Telkomsel SIMpati card and found it to work well in 99% of the places mentioned in the itinerary (except while on a cruise). If you are interested in obtaining a SIM card, you can find more information about data and SIM cards in Indonesia here.

Tips: To stay connected with people at home, be sure that you have a VPN, such as ProtonVPN, installed before traveling. It’s FREE, and you can gain access to services that may be blocked in certain countries.

What to Pack for Indonesia?

As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Indonesia:

Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.

Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.

Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi’s jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.

Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It’s lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.

Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker’s towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.

Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Indonesia in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.

Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.

Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.

Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It’s a total game-changer.

Universal Adapter: You’ll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.

Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.

Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It’s large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it’s stylish as hell!

Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can’t go wrong with Osprey.

For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.

How to Get to Indonesia?

For this itinerary, flying into Jakarta is recommended as a starting point for traveling by land through Java all the way to Flores. To find the best flight options and the fastest route to Indonesia, I personally recommend using either Skyscanner or Expedia.

How to Get Around Indonesia?

Traveling within Indonesia, despite consisting of many islands, has become considerably easier due to the influx of tourists in recent years. Various transportation options are available, depending on the distance and location to which you are traveling.

For short distances, you can rent a motorbike to travel at your own pace or hire an o-jek (motorbike taxi) for the day. You can use ride-hailing services like Grab in some areas like Java, Bali, and Lombok. Alternatively, metered taxis, such as Blue Bird, are also available but be prepared to negotiate the fare with regular taxis.

For long-distance travel, the options vary depending on the region, as follows:

How to Get Around on Java

On Java, taking a train is recommended for its reliability, speed, comfort, and affordability. With the suggested itinerary, you can travel by train from Jakarta to all the listed destinations, including Banyuwangi. Train tickets can be booked online through websites like Tiket.com. For more information on train travel in Indonesia, you can refer to the Seat61 guide.

How to Get Around on Bali

Bali has limited public transportation options for tourists. You can use Grab taxis or hire a driver for the day through your hotel or local tour agencies. However, be aware of the taxi mafia in Bali, especially in the city center. It is recommended to be discreet when using Grab services to avoid confrontation. Renting a scooter or exploring the area on foot is also an option, particularly in one specific area like Ubud.

How to Get Around on Lombok

Buses are the most affordable option for traveling around Lombok and can be easily flagged down. Renting a scooter is a convenient way to visit attractions in the area. Grab and Blue Bird taxis are also available on the island.

How to Get Around on Flores

In Flores, buses are the main mode of transportation for traveling around the island. Gunung Mas is a reliable bus service that can be booked through guesthouses or hotels. Bemos (minibuses) are another option, as are shared taxis where you share a Toyota Kijang with locals and split the cost. For shorter distances, renting a scooter or hiring an o-jek for the day is a convenient alternative.

Further Reading for Indonesia

I hope this travel guide will help you plan your trip to Indonesia. I have visited Indonesia more times than I can count and have written numerous articles about the country.

If you are looking for more articles about Indonesia, here are some articles that might help you plan your trip to Indonesia even more.

Are you planning to travel to Indonesia as part of a big Southeast Asia trip? Check out our 3-month backpacking itinerary for Southeast Asia.
If you are visiting Bali for the first time, here is a travel guide to get you started: 10 BEST Places To Visit In Bali.
Jakarta is a massive city unlike any other, and there is much to do here if you know where to look. Here are the 8 Best Things To Do in Jakarta.
Yogyakarta is a great cultural and historical place to visit in Indonesia, and there are plenty of things to see and do there. Here are the 9 Best Things To Do in Yogyakarta.
Did you know that there is an island in Indonesia that is free of tourists? One of them is Karimunjawa, a true hidden gem island of Java. Here’s a complete guide on how to travel to Karimunjawa Island.
Looking for an article that summarizes a trip through the Java island? Check out my photo essay of Java, Indonesia.
Lombok is now gaining in popularity, but one of the best things you can do on the island is to trek Mount Rinjani, a volcano on a lake in another volcano on an island. Here’s a complete guide on how to trek Mount Rinjani.
Gili Trawangan is one of the most popular Gili islands in Lombok, and even though it’s crowded, you can often find solitude if you know where to look. Plus, it’s cheap. Here’s an article about exploring Gili Trawangan.
Komodo Island is one of the most unique experiences you can never experience anywhere. Here’s a backpacking travel guide on how to explore the Komodo Islands (what to do, which cruise to pick, and more).
Flores is another great island that deserves way more credit than it receives. There are the Komodo islands, Kelimutu tri-colored lakes, and so much more. Here is a 10-day travel guide for Flores and Komodo Island.
Talking about Kelimutu, here’s a complete travel guide on how to get to Kelimutu lakes in Flores.
Watch a travel video I made about Bali, Lombok, and Flores here: Nusantara, a journey through Bali, Lombok, and Flores, Indonesia.
Not convinced by my words about Indonesia and Southeast Asia? Check out my photographic journey through the subcontinent: 64 photos that will inspire you to visit Southeast Asia.
Wondering where you want to go next? How about Timor Leste? Visit the Timor Leste Travel Guide page for more travel guidance about Timor Leste.
To see all articles about Indonesia, visit the Indonesia Travel Guide page.
Looking for more travel guides for Southeast Asia? You can find more on my Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
For more of my travel guides, visit my Destinations page.