Flights from South Africa to Indonesia

Discover Indonesia

Discover Indonesia

Why visit Indonesia?

Indonesia offers a blend of lush islands, active volcanoes, vibrant cities, and welcoming coastal communities spread across more than 17,000 islands. You can balance beach time, culture, and nature in one journey.

What to expect

Expect lively urban energy in Jakarta, temples and beaches around Bali, and greener, slower-paced cities such as Medan and Surabaya. Each island has its own rhythm, landscapes, and traditions to explore.

Plan your trip

Most trips start in Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Medan, or Surabaya, which connect on to other islands by domestic flights or ferries. Indonesia also works well as part of a wider Southeast Asia itinerary, linking easily via Singapore.

Top experiences in Indonesia

Explore Jakarta's historic quarters

Walk through Kota Tua's colonial streets, museums, and harbourside cafés to see how Indonesia's capital blends old trading heritage with modern city life.

Unwind on Bali's beaches

Head to the sands around Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua to surf, swim, or simply relax with sunsets, beach clubs, and a wide choice of resorts.

Discover Ubud's rice terraces

Venture inland from Bali's coast to Ubud for emerald rice fields, art galleries, and craft villages set among cool, green hills.

Visit Borobudur and Prambanan

From central Java, take a day trip to the ancient Buddhist and Hindu temple complexes of Borobudur and Prambanan, known for detailed stone carvings and sunrise views.

Chase waterfalls in North Sumatra

From Medan, day trips take you to forested highlands, coffee country, and scenic waterfalls, with cool air and quieter rural landscapes.

Walk the streets of Surabaya

Explore Surabaya's riverfront, Arab Quarter, and old town districts for a sense of Indonesia's trading past and strong maritime character.

Island-hop around Lombok and the Gilis

From Bali, travel onwards to Lombok and the Gili Islands for quieter beaches, snorkelling, and clear waters with laid-back island stays.

Experience volcano views

Join early-morning trips to viewpoints near Mount Bromo or other Javanese peaks for sunrise panoramas over mist-filled volcanic landscapes.

Experience Indonesia's way of life

Getting around

Domestic flights link major hubs such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Medan, and Surabaya with smaller islands and regional cities. In and around towns, you can combine taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and boats or ferries for shorter hops.

Local life & culture

You will find lively neighbourhood streets, traditional arts, and local festivals, often centred on town squares or coastal promenades. Each island reveals its own blend of music, crafts, and daily rhythms, from city business districts to fishing villages.

Where to unwind

Slow down in Bali's spa resorts, coastal retreats, and yoga centres, or head to highland towns in Java and Sumatra for cooler air and mountain scenery. Beach walks, gentle hikes, and boat trips let you enjoy Indonesia's tropical outdoors at your own pace.

A taste of Indonesia

National dishes & specialties

Classic favourites include nasi goreng, satay skewers, and rendang, often with regional twists from Sumatra, Java, and Bali. Jakarta and Medan are known for bold, spicy plates, while Bali offers lighter, aromatic specialities.

Casual & modern dining hubs

In Jakarta and Surabaya you will find everything from humble warungs to sleek cafés and contemporary restaurants. Bali and other resort areas offer casual beachfront spots and international menus alongside Indonesian staples, ideal for relaxed evenings.

Signature & scenic dining

Try clifftop and beachfront restaurants in southern Bali, rooftop spots in Jakarta, or intimate venues overlooking rice fields around Ubud. Many places pair Indonesian flavours with creative plating and memorable views.

Retail therapy in Indonesia

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Jakarta is home to large malls that mix international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining in one place. Surabaya and Medan also have modern shopping centres where you can pick up fashion, electronics, and daily essentials.

Markets & local crafts

Look for batik textiles across Java, carvings and handmade décor in Bali, and traditional crafts in markets around Jakarta and Medan. Smaller town markets often sell woven goods, homeware, and keepsakes made nearby.

Evening retail scene

After dark, city malls stay busy and some streets host night markets with clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. In Bali, beachside areas and resort strips offer small boutiques and stalls that stay open into the evening.

Best time to visit Indonesia

Dry season (peak season): From June to September, much of Indonesia, including Jakarta and Bali, enjoys lower rainfall, with daytime temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F). This is popular for beach holidays and outdoor activities. Wet season (low season): From November to March, rain showers are more frequent and can be heavy but often short, with temperatures around 26–30°C (79–86°F). Landscapes are lush and there are fewer crowds. Shoulder months (shoulder season): April, May, and October can offer a good balance of sunshine and showers, with temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F), and a more relaxed atmosphere in major resort areas.

Frequently Asked Questions