Cheap flights to Indonesia

Indonesia Travel Guide

Made up of thousands of islands, Indonesia is a large and varied archipelago. Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, New Guinea and Sulawesi are the largest of the islands. Java, where Jakarta is situated, is the most developed of the islands and boasts some awe-inspiring volcanoes. The combination of varying cultures and religions alongside an altering infrastructure keeps Indonesia at the top of must-see destination lists. Whether the flight to Indonesia lands you in exotic Bali, or rustic Lombok, a new world awaits you.

Find a cheap flight to Indonesia and start your journey in Jakarta. Brave the congested streets and massive traffic and head straight to the National Monument in Merdeka Square. The marble column is topped with a gold-covered flame and symbolizes Indonesia’s independence. Enjoy a bit of Indonesia’s bustling nightlife before boarding the next Indonesia flight to Lombok.

Go snorkeling in the crystal-blue waters off one of Lombok’s glorious beaches or be adventurous and climb Mt. Rinjani, Indonesia’s second largest active volcano. Don’t leave Lombok without purchasing some Indonesia artifacts from the surrounding villages – the area is known for its pottery, baskets, and woven textiles. End your Indonesia trip on the tranquil island of Bali. A peaceful Indonesia is captured on Bali’s beaches and in the island’s hospitable citizens. One of the best reasons to book a flight to Indonesia destinations is for an Indonesian festival, but plan ahead – many areas are booked solid months ahead of time and finding Indonesia flights and accommodations can be complicated.

Adventure seeking travelers booking flights to Indonesia should plan a climb up Gunung Bromo, the active volcano. Most of the tourism is concentrated in the tiny island of Bali, which has some of the best beaches and resorts in the country.  Its cultural capital, Ubud, is renowned for art galleries and festivals. For a real off-the-beaten-track holiday travelers should head to Sumba, where the annual pasola (ritual war) takes place and outsiders are encouraged to partake in a rite of passage-style ritual of sharing betel nut (a euphoric stimulant) with the village headman and his hosts.

While there is much to do and see here, travelers booking flights to Indonesia should check security updates before boarding Indonesia flights. Tourism remains Indonesia’s biggest cash cow, and the Indonesian government has taken every step to make travelers booking flights to Indonesia feel at home.

Tips for your stay in Indonesia

• Borobudur:For the religiously-intrigued traveler, the Borobudur is the perfect introduction to Hindu influences in Indonesia. This Buddhist monument holds 504 Buddha statues, and has survived more than a few disasters, which makes its presence even more incredible. Standing tall through ash flows, terrorist bombs, and many a traveler, the 1200-year-old relic was built from 2 million block stones to form a symmetrical stupa (a small hill or mound, which Hindus believe to be grounds of worship). Six square terraces, four stairways, and elaborate gateways ornament the sacred sight which is definitely worth your time.
• Kelimutu:Sometimes, nature’s wonders can downright mystify. As you entire the Kelimutu area, you’ll spot three lakes, but something may not seem quite right. Set in the deep craters at the bottom of a volcano, the trio of lakes each has its own unique color that changes at will. At any given time, one could be turquoise, another brown, and another green. Not artificial in any way, the color change is due to the dissolving minerals that are activated by the rainy season. So to experience something you’ve surely never seen before, book flights to Indonesia and head straight to Kelimutu.
• Nyepi Day:If you happen to visit Indonesia during their New Year holiday, you’ll need to be mindful of the ritual and respect behind the meaning of it. As a visitor, you’ll be expected to respect the traditions as well, so educate yourself before you book a flight to Indonesia. The days before are loud and boisterous, filled with cleaning the villages, cooking food, and making as much noise as possible to scare away devils. However, the tone changes dramatically on Nyepi day itself, especially in Bali. On that day, no one is allowed to leave their house (or hotel!). Referred to as the day of silence, no one speaks, leaves their houses, cooks, or engages in any activity, and while tourists are allowed to occupy themselves inside their hotels, they are not allowed to come outside.
• Lore National Park:If you’re looking for a place that’s tourist-friendly, but not tourist-saturated, Lore National Park will satisfy your solitude needs. Incredibly remote, the park is perfect for trekking up and down hill and observing both exotic plant and animal life. Some butterflies are larger than human hands, and the bird watching it phenomenal. Wildlife isn’t the only sight to be seen, though: Many indigenous tribes live among the trees, and you may spot them in colorful garb performing their daily rituals. When you do need help navigating around things like waterfalls and hot springs, rangers are there to guide you but allow you to move on your own.
• Jakarta, the country’s capital city, on the island of Java has a host of things to do: museums, shops, restaurants and bars. Many of the backpackers’ hostels and hotels are in Jalan Jaksa, a cheap and cheerful road in the downtown area. Similar to the Khao San Road in Bangkok, this is where people come to stay for bargain rates and meet other travelers.
• Yokyakartais the name of both a province and its capital city on the island of Java. The city is known as the center of culture and the arts. Batik, fine art, music and dance are specialties. To see dancers performing to the traditional gamelan music, head to Bangsal Srimanganti in Kraton on a Sunday or Thursday morning.
• Bali: In addition to the stunning beaches and warm sea, the island has a backdrop of forests, volcanoes and rice paddies.
• Visit Borobodur, the Buddhist monument in central Java. The best times to see the amazing monument and its many statues of Buddha are at sunrise or sunset. Many tours head here from Jakarta, and you can join one of them or hire a car and drive there.
• The island of Lombokis east of Bali and boasts similarly beautiful beaches. Snorkeling and diving are very popular here, but there are also various attractions inland away from the beach, such as the floating palaces of justice.

Finding Flights from Indonesia

Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves the major U.S. and international airlines around the world, so it’s easy to book a ticket if you’re in need of an outbound flight from Indonesia. Cheapflights can help you with finding a flight to suit your travel needs, as well as point you in the right direction for some great deals.

When you need transportation to Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, there are several options available. Damri Airport Buses offer convenient airport service from Jakarta City Centre and several other cities with drop offs at Terminal 3. Many hotels offer their own taxi service directly to the airport, and you can also reserve with multiple taxi companies throughout the city, including Blue Bird Taxi, Silver Bird Taxi and White Horse Premium Cab. When booking a taxi or airport shuttle van in Indonesia, it’s important to make your reservations at least 24 hours prior to your departure to ensure you get to the airport with plenty of extra time to go through security and check your luggage.

If you need some more information on the ins and outs of the Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, our online guide can help:

Airport Guide to Soekarno-Hatta International (CGK)

Overview

Made up of thousands of islands, Indonesia is a large and varied archipelago. Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, New Guinea and Sulawesi are the largest of the islands. Java, where Jakarta is situated, is the most developed of the islands and boasts some awe-inspiring volcanoes. The combination of varying cultures and religions alongside an altering infrastructure keeps Indonesia at the top of must-see destination lists. Whether the flight to Indonesia lands you in exotic Bali, or rustic Lombok, a new world awaits you.

Find a cheap flight to Indonesia and start your journey in Jakarta. Brave the congested streets and massive traffic and head straight to the National Monument in Merdeka Square. The marble column is topped with a gold-covered flame and symbolizes Indonesia’s independence. Enjoy a bit of Indonesia’s bustling nightlife before boarding the next Indonesia flight to Lombok.

Go snorkeling in the crystal-blue waters off one of Lombok’s glorious beaches or be adventurous and climb Mt. Rinjani, Indonesia’s second largest active volcano. Don’t leave Lombok without purchasing some Indonesia artifacts from the surrounding villages – the area is known for its pottery, baskets, and woven textiles. End your Indonesia trip on the tranquil island of Bali. A peaceful Indonesia is captured on Bali’s beaches and in the island’s hospitable citizens. One of the best reasons to book a flight to Indonesia destinations is for an Indonesian festival, but plan ahead – many areas are booked solid months ahead of time and finding Indonesia flights and accommodations can be complicated.

Adventure seeking travelers booking flights to Indonesia should plan a climb up Gunung Bromo, the active volcano. Most of the tourism is concentrated in the tiny island ofBali, which has some of the best beaches and resorts in the country. Its cultural capital, Ubud, is renowned for art galleries and festivals. For a real off-the-beaten-track holiday travelers should head to Sumba, where the annualpasola(ritual war) takes place and outsiders are encouraged to partake in a rite of passage-style ritual of sharing betel nut (a euphoric stimulant) with the village headman and his hosts.

While there is much to do and see here, travelers booking flights to Indonesia should check security updates before boarding Indonesia flights. Tourism remains Indonesia’s biggest cash cow, and the Indonesian government has taken every step to make travelers booking flights to Indonesia feel at home.

What’s the weather like in Indonesia?

Indonesia is hot all year round, with average temperatures of 88 degrees. It cools down a bit during the wet season, but muddy roads make travel very difficult. The coasts are hotter than the inland areas, but not by much.

When is the best time to fly to Indonesia?

Peak Season:The peak season for flights to Indonesia is its dry period, lasting from June to September. Many Indonesian festivals occur during the summer, especially if you book flights to Indonesia in July and August, when you’ll likely be able to observe the locals perform sacred rituals and celebrate with one another. Things cool down a bit, but temperatures are still warm enough to stroll main roads and cities on foot.

Off-peak Season:Although there’s no bad time to book flights to Indonesia, you might want to take weather into consideration if you’re sensitive to wetter climates. The span of time between October and April are still hot, but produce more rainfall and more humidity than the summer season. You’ll also have to think about location, because the northern side of the country is normally wet year-round, but this might also be the best time to book cheap flights to Indonesia.

When is the best time to book a flight to Indonesia?

The most popular tourist season in Indonesia is between June and September, as the weather is cooler. A good rule of thumb when booking international flights is to book anywhere between two to five months before your departure date in order to lock in the best deals. While you still may be able to arrange a flight on short notice, the cost for a last-minute international flight is significantly higher than if you booked at an earlier date. If you’re traveling within Indonesia, the general rule when booking locally is to purchase a ticket 54 days prior to your departure date, as this is the peak time for the lowest rates. Keep in mind when traveling into Indonesia from another country, your passport must be valid for at least six months prior to your departure.

How long is the flight to Indonesia?

Flight times to Indonesia can vary depending on your starting point, and most flights from the U.S. take anywhere between 15 and 20 hours. If you’re flying to Indonesia from New York City, expect a flight length of approximately 20 hours. When traveling in from Los Angeles, flights take around 17 hours, while flights from Washington last approximately 16 hours. Flights from the U.K. are also around 16 hours, and flights from Japan take just six hours.

Which airlines fly to Indonesia?

Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and home to Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Indonesia’s main airport and central travel hub. The airport serves carriers from around the world, both U.S. and international, so booking a flight to Indonesia should be quick and easy. Airlines served by Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport include Air American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, United and Virgin America. International airlines served include Virgin Australia, British Airways, Asiana Airlines and Air China.

When you land in Jakarta, Indonesia, make sure to have your passport and identification readily available to ensure you pass through the security checkpoints without any issues.

What should you pack for a flight to Indonesia?

Indonesia is a humid climate year-round, so it’s important to pack loose, breathable clothing that you’ll feel comfortable in when walking around outdoors. Comfortable yet breathable shoes are also recommended, as many of the tourist attractions and historic areas require travel by foot. Locals tend to dress in casual attire, but certain types of clothing are frowned upon, so it’s a good idea to avoid wearing shorts or short skirts outside of your hotel or resort, and refrain from wearing overly-bright colors. To protect yourself from the sun and keep mosquitoes at bay, you’ll also want to pack plenty of sunscreen, bug repellent, a sun hat and sunglasses.

When packing toiletries, keep in mind that Indonesian stores may not carry specific brands of beauty and hygiene products, so you’ll want to make sure to include a supply of shampoo, soap, makeup, and any other personal care product you may need on your journey. In your carry-on bag, pack reading materials for your flight, along with travel-sized items such as hand sanitizer and baby wipes to freshen up with prior to landing. Additional items you may wish to include in your carry-on bag include any prescription medications you’ll need during your trip so you don’t have to worry about refilling at a local pharmacy, and a translation dictionary to ease communication between yourself and locals.

Getting to and around Indonesia

The Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) is Padang’s airport (off Jl Adinegoro), 12.4 miles north of the center of town. Airport taxis are available for transfer to the town. It may be cheaper to take a Damri bus that does a loop through the city. But just ensure that you get into the correct bus.

City buses and mini buses are available for transportation within the city but public transportation may not meet international standards. It’s better to use metered taxis or car rentals for travelling around the city. Car rentals are convenient as they include the driver who also acts as a guide.

Once your flight to Indonesia lands, you may want to travel within the country. If so, book cheap Indonesia flights on domestic airlines to get from one city to another. For the budget-minded traveler, it’s a good idea to wait until you are in Indonesia to book domestic Indonesia flights, because 50 percent is added to the price if purchased in the United States. There are a number of airlines that offer domestic flights, primarily between Jakarta, Bali, Yogyakarta and Surabaya. Make sure to reconfirm your flight plans even after you’ve made them, because overbooking can occur.

The well-preserved main roads make Indonesia travel easy to navigate. A few bus companies ranging from very cheap to relatively expensive will get you from one place to another, no matter the destination. Ekonomi buses (pronounced like “economy”) have cheap fares and welcome animals (when the locals happen to be traveling with their respective pigs and chickens). Express Buses are a bit more expensive and hold less cargo, but are much faster. Lastly, luxury air conditioned buses have all the amenities as a coach bus would have in the United States.

If rail is your transportation of choice, you must be willing to deal with irregularity and slowness. Railroad travel is restricted between Java and Sumatra, and you certainly get what you pay for. If you find a cheap rate, it’s likely to be crowded and slow, and if you pay a little more, you may have a comfortable, quick ride. Book your train seats in advance to ensure you have one.

Cars, motorbikes, and bicycles can be rented in main cities and touristy places, and there are myriad local transport options from which to choose. Bemos are pickup trucks with rows of seats on each side; dokars are horse drawn carts; and taxis are cheap, but inconsistently prices so be sure to confirm rates before entering.

Ferries operate between the islands and standards are high.

What are some things to do in Indonesia?

Indonesia has over 13,000 islands, 8,000 of which are active and ready to explore. Ferry boats are readily available to take you island hopping from Jakarta, and overnight buses make it easy to visit various regions during your stay.

For some fun in the sun on one of the world’s most famous beaches, spend the day at Kuta Beach in southern Bali. Known for its amazing waves, travelers from all around the world visit this beach just to get some surfing time in. If you’re new to surfing, sign up for surf lessons with one of the many guides at the beach, or rent a sponge board and float along the water in your own time. Make sure to stay for the sunset and take plenty of photos.

For a taste of history and a day of peaceful reflection, visit the Borobudur Buddhist temple in Central Java. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site that welcomes thousands of visitors each year, who come to gaze at this lavish structure built in the 9th century. The temple is the largest of its kind in the world, and houses over 72 Buddha sculptures with intricate designs and extremely detailed craftsmanship.

If you’re hoping to enjoy some authentic Indonesian cuisine during your travels, make the first item on your menu a traditional Padang meal. Padang is the capital of West Sumata in Indonesia, but you’ll find Padang eateries throughout several regions. To determine that you’re eating authentic Padang, make sure the windows of the restaurant you visit display stacked towers of dishes. Once inside, dine on delicious items such as spicy Padang beef, sour and spicy fish stew, or coconut curry over rice.

Tips for your stay in Indonesia

• Borobudur:For the religiously-intrigued traveler, the Borobudur is the perfect introduction to Hindu influences in Indonesia. This Buddhist monument holds 504 Buddha statues, and has survived more than a few disasters, which makes its presence even more incredible. Standing tall through ash flows, terrorist bombs, and many a traveler, the 1200-year-old relic was built from 2 million block stones to form a symmetrical stupa (a small hill or mound, which Hindus believe to be grounds of worship). Six square terraces, four stairways, and elaborate gateways ornament the sacred sight which is definitely worth your time.
• Kelimutu: Sometimes, nature’s wonders can downright mystify. As you entire the Kelimutu area, you’ll spot three lakes, but something may not seem quite right. Set in the deep craters at the bottom of a volcano, the trio of lakes each has its own unique color that changes at will. At any given time, one could be turquoise, another brown, and another green. Not artificial in any way, the color change is due to the dissolving minerals that are activated by the rainy season. So to experience something you’ve surely never seen before, book flights to Indonesia and head straight to Kelimutu.
• Nyepi Day: If you happen to visit Indonesia during their New Year holiday, you’ll need to be mindful of the ritual and respect behind the meaning of it. As a visitor, you’ll be expected to respect the traditions as well, so educate yourself before you book a flight to Indonesia. The days before are loud and boisterous, filled with cleaning the villages, cooking food, and making as much noise as possible to scare away devils. However, the tone changes dramatically on Nyepi day itself, especially in Bali. On that day, no one is allowed to leave their house (or hotel!). Referred to as the day of silence, no one speaks, leaves their houses, cooks, or engages in any activity, and while tourists are allowed to occupy themselves inside their hotels, they are not allowed to come outside.
• Lore National Park: If you’re looking for a place that’s tourist-friendly, but not tourist-saturated, Lore National Park will satisfy your solitude needs. Incredibly remote, the park is perfect for trekking up and down hill and observing both exotic plant and animal life. Some butterflies are larger than human hands, and the bird watching it phenomenal. Wildlife isn’t the only sight to be seen, though: Many indigenous tribes live among the trees, and you may spot them in colorful garb performing their daily rituals. When you do need help navigating around things like waterfalls and hot springs, rangers are there to guide you but allow you to move on your own.
• Jakarta, the country’s capital city, on the island of Java has a host of things to do: museums, shops, restaurants and bars. Many of the backpackers’ hostels and hotels are in Jalan Jaksa, a cheap and cheerful road in the downtown area. Similar to the Khao San Road in Bangkok, this is where people come to stay for bargain rates and meet other travelers.
• Yokyakarta is the name of both a province and its capital city on the island of Java. The city is known as the center of culture and the arts. Batik, fine art, music and dance are specialties. To see dancers performing to the traditional gamelan music, head to Bangsal Srimanganti in Kraton on a Sunday or Thursday morning.
• Bali: In addition to the stunning beaches and warm sea, the island has a backdrop of forests, volcanoes and rice paddies.
• Visit Borobodur, the Buddhist monument in central Java. The best times to see the amazing monument and its many statues of Buddha are at sunrise or sunset. Many tours head here from Jakarta, and you can join one of them or hire a car and drive there.
• The island of Lombok is east of Bali and boasts similarly beautiful beaches. Snorkeling and diving are very popular here, but there are also various attractions inland away from the beach, such as the floating palaces of justice.

Finding Flights from Indonesia

Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves the major U.S. and international airlines around the world, so it’s easy to book a ticket if you’re in need of an outbound flight from Indonesia. Cheapflights can help you with finding a flight to suit your travel needs, as well as point you in the right direction for some great deals.

When you need transportation to Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, there are several options available. Damri Airport Buses offer convenient airport service from Jakarta City Centre and several other cities with drop offs at Terminal 3. Many hotels offer their own taxi service directly to the airport, and you can also reserve with multiple taxi companies throughout the city, including Blue Bird Taxi, Silver Bird Taxi and White Horse Premium Cab. When booking a taxi or airport shuttle van in Indonesia, it’s important to make your reservations at least 24 hours prior to your departure to ensure you get to the airport with plenty of extra time to go through security and check your luggage.