I’m in my happy place when I’m traveling around Indonesia. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been, but somehow, I always find my way back.
My first trip was the standard Indonesia itinerary with a focus on Bali and Lombok. I quickly discovered that there’s so much more to Indo, and started planning my next adventure to the country.
Since then, I’ve traveled overland from Java to Flores and gone completely off the beaten track in Sumba Island.
But with only 3 weeks in Indonesia, you won’t have enough time to do everything!
So, to help you plan the perfect trip, I’ve shared all my favorite islands to explore. It’s a great balance of adventure and culture, and can be easily customized into a 2-week or 1-month itinerary for Indonesia.
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How many days in Indonesia
With all the islands to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning your Indonesia trip – especially when time is not on your side.
The key is to stick to a few islands and explore them thoroughly, rather than trying to see them all.
Ideally, you’ll need at least 3 weeks in Indonesia. If you have less than that, I suggest sticking to a Bali and Lombok route, as these islands are next to each other.
Got more time? Add Flores Island to your itinerary. This is my favorite place in Indo and is home to the famous Komodo Islands and Kelimutu National Park.
3 week Indonesia itinerary
Day 1-6 | Bali (Ubud, Uluwatu)
Day 7-10 | Lombok (Gili Islands, Kuta)
Day 11-18 | Flores (Komodo Islands, Ruteng, Bajawa, Moni)
Day 19-21 | Exatra time and departure
Day 1-3: Uluwatu
Nights | 3 nights
It’s best to start your Indonesia itinerary in Bali, as this is a transport hub with the cheapest fares into Indonesia.
You could easily spend your entire 3 weeks in Bali, but this will only give you a small glimpse into what Indonesia has to offer.
Stay on the island for a max of 7 days, basing yourself in two different locations in Bali.
The first stop should be a coastal town. I suggest either Uluwatu or Seminyak.
I love Uluwatu, so it’s where I’d go.
Don’t plan any activities for your first day. After a long flight, the last thing you’ll want is to spend more time in a car driving around.
Instead, beat the jetlag by exploring the area around your hotel or by sipping on cocktails on the beach.
Where to stay | I always stay in Bingin Beach in Uluwatu. It has a relaxed vibe and is near cafes, shops, and bars. Hari Indah Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of Bingin Beach, and its rooms are stunning. Here’s my guide to all the areas in Uluwatu.
Things to do in Uluwatu
Here are my top recommendations for things to do in Uluwatu over the next two days.
Beach hop | The beaches in Uluwatu are the best you’ll find in Bali. My favorites include Bingin Beach, Dreamland Beach, and Padang Padang.
Watch the surfers at Uluwatu surf break | This is a world-famous wave. Go have a drink at Single Fin or one of the many warungs on the cliffside.
Go to a beach club | I love Sunday’s Beach Club, Karma Kandara, and Palmilla.
Uluwatu Temple | This famous temple sits on the edge of a cliff with dramatic views of the crashing waves. Pair this with the Kecak Fire Show, a local dance and musical performance.
Day 4-6: Ubud
Nights | 3 nights
Today you’ll head to Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali.
Unlike the popular areas along the coast, Ubud’s main attraction lies in its lush surroundings that ooze tranquility and peacefulness.
Where to stay | Ubud has beautiful accommodation amongst the rice fields – and this is where you want to stay (not in the chaotic centre). I stayed at Byasa Ubud and loved it here.
Quieter Alternatives | Ubud is touristy and busy. If you’re looking for a more remote escape amongst the ricefields, take a look at Sidemen and Munduk.
Things to do in Ubud
It’s best to rent a scooter for the day, as you need to drive to these attractions. If you don’t feel comfortable driving a scooter, this is an excellent day tour option where you’ll have a private driver to show you around.
Take the Campuhan Ridge Walk | Campuhan Ridge Walk starts in the heart of Ubud and passes through rice fields and villages.
Visit Ubud Monkey Forest | Home to over 600 mischievous monkeys and 120 different species of trees, you’ll find the Ubud Monkey Forest right in the center of bustling Ubud.
Hike Mount Batur | Mount Batur is an active volcano and a popular sunrise hike. Read all about my experience climbing Mt Batur here.
Visit a rice field | Tegalalang Rice Terrace is the most famous of all rice fields in Bali, if not the whole of Indonesia. Jatiluwih Rice Field is slightly further from Ubud and not nearly as crowded.
Explore a waterfall | Leke Leke is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Bali and is close to Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. If you’re looking for something closer to Ubud, Tegenungan is also a popular choice.
Visit a temple | There are several temples near Ubud. The Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple is one of the most famous, but you may also want to check out Goa Gajah (The Elephant Temple).
Day 7-8: Gili Islands
Nights | 2 nights
Today, you’ll be heading to the Gili islands, a trio of spectacular islands located off the coast of Lombok. It’s time to soak up the sun and relish in the island vibes!
To get to the Gili Islands, you’ll hop on a 2-hour fast ferry from Padang Bai (Bali). Find out more about the ferry here.
Where to stay | If you want to be close to all the action, stay near the Gili Trawangan pier. Pearl of Trawangan is located on the south side and is a great accommodation option if you want to be a short walk from everything but not in the thick of it all.
Things to do on Gili Trawangan
Cycle around the island | The only way to get around Gili T is by foot or bicycle. There are many hidden paths leading to untouched corners of the island, and you can visit all of them in less than an hour.
Find a sunset spot | The best way to end your first day on Gili T is by watching the sunset from the western side of the island. This is also where you’ll find the famous Gili T swings.
Find underwater statues | The 48 life-size human sculptures are without a doubt the biggest attraction near the Gili Islands. You’ll need to join a snorkeling tour like this to check them out.
Visit the Night Market | This Gili T night market is located off the main road near the harbor. The food is absolutely delicious, and great value for money. The market is open daily from 6 pm.
Go snorkeling with turtles | Turtles are often seen in the shallow waters close to Turtle Point. Snorkeling equipment can be rented from one of the many vendors near the beach.
There’s a lot more you can do around the Gilis! For more activities, check out my post on the best things to do in Gili Trawangan.
Day 9-10: Lombok
Nights | 2 nights
And so, your 3 week Indonesia itinerary continues. This time you’re on a quick ferry ride from the Gili Islands to Lombok.
Lombok is one of the most underrated islands in Indonesia and offers a good mix of untouched beauty and creature comforts.
To get from the Gili Islands to Lombok, you’ll hop on a 15-minute fast ferry to Bangsal Harbour, Lombok.
After reaching Lombok, find a driver and make your way down south to Kuta, Lombok, with a few exciting stops along the way. But don’t confuse Kuta in Lombok with Kuta in Bali. They are two very different places.
Where to stay | Many people choose to stay in Sengiggi on the west coast of Lombok. I recommend heading straight to Kuta, which is the main tourist hub. Rascals Hotel is hard to beat!
Tip: I haven’t included Lombok’s iconic Mount Rinjani hike in this guide. Why? Because it’s a 3D 2N hike and quite expensive. If you’re an adventure traveler who’s up for the challenge, I recommend you head to Senaru after arriving in Lombok. This is the starting point of the Mount Rinjani hike.
Things to do in Lombok
Visit Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls | These are the most incredible waterfalls I’ve ever seen! You’ll pass them on the way from the harbor to Kuta, so there’s no excuse not to see them.
Laze on Tanjung Aan Beach | After you’ve checked into your accommodation, rent a scooter and head to Tanjung Aan Beach, one of the best beaches in Lombok.
Sunset at Merese Hill | Alongside Tanjung Aan Beach lies Merese Hill, which is a great place to watch the sunset.
Go beach hopping | My faves are Mawun Beach and Selong Belanak, which are both west of Kuta, Lombok. Here you’ll find the bluest water and soft white sand!
Learn to surf | Selong Belanak is a great beach to learn how to surf. There are also sunbeds to laze on, and several warungs where you can buy fresh coconuts, beer, or food.
Day 11-13: Komodo Islands
Nights | 3 nights
Today, we’re heading to Flores Island. I spent 2 weeks doing this Flores overland trip, and it was the highlight of my travels through Indonesia.
To get from Lombok to Flores, you’ll take a short flight from Kuta, Lombok, to Labuan Bajo in Flores, which is the gateway to Komodo National Park.
You’ll then need to spend the night in Labuan Bajo before joining an overnight liveaboard, which will take you through the heart of the Komodo Islands.
After 2 full days on the water, you’ll return to Labuan Bajo at 5 pm. This is where you’ll spend the night before setting off on your overland journey the next day.
Top tip: Don’t do a day trip to Komodo National Park, as it doesn’t give you much time to see everything. It’s a long boat ride to the park, and there’s plenty to do. You need 2 days (at a minimum).
Where to stay | It’s best to stay somewhere close to the Labuan Bajo harbor. The town itself isn’t much to write home about, so don’t spend more time here than you have to. I stayed at Seaesta Komodo Hotel – the views from the rooftop pool are also pretty epic.
Things to do in Komodo Islands
I did a 3-night scuba diving liveaboard, which you can read about here.
Below are a few things that will be included in your liveaboard trip.
- Komodo Dragon sighting at Rinca Island
- Climbing Padar Island
- Snorkeling at Pink Beach
- Swimming with Manta Rays at Manta Point
- Sunset from Gili Lawa
Day 14: Ruteng
Nights | 1 night
For the next part of your trip, I suggest hiring a driver who will take you overland from Labuan Bajo to Moni.
A four-hour drive from Labuan Bajo lies Ruteng, a small village hidden amongst the hills of Flores Island.
There are two main attractions here: The Spider Rice Fields and Liang Bua Cave, which is where skeletal remains of hobbit humans have been found.
Where to stay | Sun Rice Homestay offers a gorgeous setting nestled amongst the rice fields. The overall experience is hard to beat, especially given the affordable price.
Day 15-16: Bajawa
Nights | 2 nights
After Ruteng, it’s time to continue east to Bajawa. I loved it here!
We started our trip at Malanage Hot Springs, which are the most incredible natural hot springs I’ve ever been to.
Next, we stopped by Bena Traditional Village before tackling the 2 am hike up Mount Inerie the following morning. It’s a tough climb, but the views are worth every step.
If hiking’s not your thing, head to Wolobobo viewpoint for sweeping volcano views, or check out Mangeruda Hot Springs and Ogi Waterfall instead.
Here’s my guide to visiting Bajawa.
Where to stay | I stayed at Cinnamon Guest House, which is right in the heart of Bajawa. The large, comfortable rooms are well-priced, and the wonderful owner assisted us with scooter rentals and other logistics.
Day 17-18: Moni
Nights | 2 nights
Moni is home to the stunning Kelimutu Lakes. These lakes are picture perfect, and their bright colors are even better in real life.
Many people stay for a night only, but if you enjoy a raw and real experience, try to stay for two if possible. The village is surrounded by rice fields, and the entire area is off the beaten track.
Where to stay | I stayed at Rago’s Homestay and loved it. It’s a local spot just outside of town.
Day 19-21: Extra time
Nights | 2 nights
After Moni, drive an hour to Ende, which is where you’ll find an airport that services flights to Labuan Bajo or Bali.
I’ve left a buffer at the end of this itinerary so you have a few options for what with your last 2 days.
Option 1: Travel slower
If you prefer to travel slower through my itinerary (Bali/Lombok/Flores), here are a few suggestions. This would be my preference.
- Spend an extra day in Kuta, Lombok, as there’s a lot to do.
- You should also consider spending more time in the Komodo Islands, as a 1-night liveaboard is the bare minimum.
- Add Riung to your Flores route. It’s a slight detour, and you’ll need two nights, but I loved it here.
Option 2: More time in Bali
If your international departure flight is out of Bali, you will need to return to the island anyway.
You could easily spend your last few days here and explore Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, or Seminyak.
Option 3: Mount Bromo in Java
Mount Bromo is located in East Java and is one of the best-known peaks of Indonesia. This addition makes sense if you are departing Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, which is also on Java Island.
To get to Mount Bromo, you will need to fly to Surabaya in East Java.
You then have the option of joining a day tour like this from Surabaya to Mount Bromo, which is a 2-hour drive away. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train and stay at Probolinggo, which is a longer route (that you won’t have time for).
What to pack for Indonesia
Bali has a tropical climate, and you’ll want to pack lightly. If you’re following my recommended Indonesia travel route, you’ll be moving around quite a bit. here are a few must-haves
- A backpack: Don’t bring hard luggage if you’re traveling between islands.
- Trainers: Hiking shoes aren’t necessary, but be sure to bring a good pair of trainers for all the walking you’ll be doing.
- A light jacket: Although it will be hot, bring a light jacket to wear in the mornings, on boat trips, and for your flight.
Here’s my comprehensive Indonesia packing list, which includes everything you need to pack (and leave at home)!
Best time to visit
April to October are the best months to visit Indonesia. This is the dry season, so you can expect warm sunny days with little to no rain.
The peak tourist season runs from July to September. There are larger crowds and higher prices during these months.
If you’re planning your Indonesia itinerary for December to March, you can expect a fair bit of rainfall. This is the rainy season after all, and it also gets extremely humid during these months.
If you’re backpacking Indonesia or doing lots of hiking, island hopping, and outdoor activities, I recommend avoiding travel during the rainy season.
Final thoughts on 3 weeks Indonesia itinerary
Planning the perfect Indonesia itinerary is no easy task! With so many amazing attractions (like these ones), you’re going to have to make a few compromises.
From my personal experience, this guide includes the best of Indonesia, and I have no doubt that after your visit, it won’t be long before you return.
Have you traveled to South East Asia? What destinations would you recommend for the perfect Indonesia itinerary for 3 weeks? Let me know in the comments section below!
Looking for more Indonesia travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!
- Sumba Island Travel Guide
- Living in Bali: Pros And Cons of Island Life
- Comprehensive Guide to Renting a Scooter in Bali
- 7 Incredible Bali Hidden Gems
- The Ultimate Bali Packing List
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Hello Carryn,
Thank you for this itinerary! it has been super helpful for me, I am planning my first solo trip, but I have a few questions for you:
– Did you book all your hotels before arriving there or can we do it there last minute?
– Did you have to book any of the attraction with anticipation?
– How is the security there (considering we are both females and I will be by my own)
I really hope to hear from you soon,
Best Regards,
Fernanda
Hi Fernanda, I’m so excited for your trip!
– I booked accommodation last minute (a day or 2 prior) through Booking.com. I recommend you do the same as you may have slight changes to your itinerary, depending on the people you meet (or the weather). If you’re short on time and you have a fixed itinerary, you could book in advance, but it’s not necessary (unless you’re really particular about where you stay)
– Yes, I booked my Komodo islands boat trip about a week before, but for other tours, such as Mount Batur, Kelimutu Crater Lakes, day trips etc, I booked a day or two in advance.
– I felt very safe in Indonesia and never had to watch my back. The locals are so friendly and helpful. Of course, there’s always the chance of petty theft, especially in Bali. So keep your valuables close, but you don’t have to worry about violent crime in the country.
Let me know if you have any more questions. Enjoy your trip!
Carryn