Broke Backpacking In Indonesia: The Ultimate Guide

Indonesia is the land of incredibly rich culture, magnificent landscapes, and renowned hospitality that draws adventurers and travelers from all over the world. With more than 17,000 islands to explore, this Southeast Asia gem offers endless opportunities for discovery. From untouched beaches and coral reefs to ancient temples and vibrant cities, Indonesia is a treasure cask of experiences that can be explored and unfolded one by one.
What if you are on an extremely tight budget? Can one even have a taste of Indonesia without making a hole in the wallet? Yes, one can! Knowledge and planning, with an insider’s touch, can get you through the breathtaking sceneries and landscapes of Indonesia, enjoy its culture with the locals, and have great food without breaking a bank.
In this blog, we’ll be sharing expert tips on affordable accommodations, delicious street food, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and budget-friendly transportation. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting to plan your Indonesian adventure, we’ll walk you through the essentials of traveling Indonesia on a budget to make the most of your time and money in this incredible archipelago.

How to get there:

From Malaysia

  1. Bus and Ferry: Take a bus from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to the Malaysian-Thai border town of Kota Bharu, then transfer to another bus to Kuala Perlis. From Kuala Perlis, catch a ferry to the Indonesian island of Sumatra (specifically, the city of Medan).
  2. Flight: Fly from KL to Medan or other major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Bali with budget airlines like AirAsia or Malindo Air.

From Singapore

  1. Ferry: Take a ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Batam, Indonesia. From Batam, connect to other Indonesian islands via domestic ferries or flights.
  2. Flight: Fly from Singapore Changi Airport to major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Bali or Surabaya with Singapore Airlines, Garuda Indonesia or Lion Air.

From Papua New Guinea

  1. Flight: Fly from Port Moresby to Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia with Papua New Guinea Air or Garuda Indonesia.
  2. Land and Sea: Take a bus or taxi from Port Moresby to the border town of Vanimo, then cross into Indonesia and continue to Jayapura by bus or taxi, followed by a ferry ride.

From East Timor

  1. Land and Sea: Take a bus or taxi from Dili to the border town of Mota’ain, then cross into Indonesia and continue to the city of Atambua by bus or taxi, followed by another bus to Kupang.
  2. Flight: Fly from Dili to Kupang with Nam Air or Garuda Indonesia.

When to go:

Dry Season (May-September)

Pros:

  • Pleasant weather (average temperature: 25-30°C/77-86°F)
  • Low humidity
  • Ideal for island-hopping and outdoor activities
  • Peak tourist season, vibrant atmosphere

Cons:

  • Higher prices for accommodations and tours
  • Crowded popular destinations

Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October)

Pros:

  • Fewer tourists, lower prices
  • Comfortable temperatures (average: 20-25°C/68-77°F)
  • Rainfall decreases

Cons:

  • Some attractions might be closed

Wet Season (November-March)

Pros:

  • Lush landscapes
  • Lower prices
  • Fewer tourists

Cons:

  • Frequent rain showers
  • Flooding and landslides possible
  • Some islands and roads inaccessible

Special Events and Festivals

  1. Nyepi Day of Silence (March): Bali’s Hindu New Year, a unique cultural experience.
  2. Eid al-Fitr (May/June): Celebrate Ramadan’s end with locals.
  3. Independence Day (August 17th): Witness patriotic parades and festivities.
  4. Baliem Valley Festival (August): Papua’s traditional tribal festival.

Best Time for Specific Activities

  1. Surfing: Dry season (May-September)
  2. Diving: April-October
  3. Hiking: Dry season (May-September)
  4. Festival-hopping: March-August

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary: Jakarta and Surroundings

  1. Day 1: Jakarta
  • Explore Old Batavia, Jakarta Cathedral and National Monument
  • Visit Istiqlal Mosque and Glodok (Chinatown)
  • Enjoy street food at Jalan Jaksa
  1. Day 2: Bogor
  • Visit Bogor Palace and Botanical Gardens
  • Explore Bogor’s traditional markets
  • Take a train from Jakarta
  1. Day 3: Bandung
  • Drive to Bandung
  • Explore Trans Studio Bandung
  • Visit Bandung’s Factory Outlets

1-Week Itinerary: Java Island

  1. Day 1-2: Jakarta and Bogor
  • Explore Jakarta’s landmarks
  • Visit Bogor Palace and Botanical Gardens
  1. Day 3-4: Yogyakarta
  • Take a train to Yogyakarta
  • Explore Borobudur Temple
  • Visit Sultan’s Palace
  1. Day 5-6: Malang
  • Drive to Malang
  • Explore Malang City
  • Visit Bromo National Park
  1. Day 7: Return to Jakarta

2-Week Itinerary: Bali and Lombok

  1. Day 1-3: Bali
  • Explore Ubud
  • Visit Uluwatu Temple
  • Relax on Kuta Beach
  1. Day 4-6: Lombok
  • Take a ferry to Lombok
  • Explore Taman Sangaw Beach
  • Visit Rinjani National Park
  1. Day 7-10: Gili Islands
  • Take a ferry to Gili Islands
  • Snorkel and dive
  • Relax on Gili Trawangan
  1. Day 11-14: Return to Bali

1-Month Itinerary: Indonesia Highlights

  1. Week 1: Java Island (Jakarta, Bogor, Yogyakarta, Malang)
  2. Week 2: Bali and Lombok
  3. Week 3: Flores Island and Komodo National Park
  4. Week 4: Sumatra (Medan, Lake Toba, Bukit Lawang)

3-Month Itinerary: Indonesia Extensive

  1. Month 1: Java, Bali and Lombok
  2. Month 2: Flores, Komodo and Sumatra
  3. Month 3:
  • Sulawesi (Makassar, Toraja Land, Bunaken National Park)
  • Papua (Jayapura, Raja Ampat)
  • Moluccas (Ambon, Banda Islands)

Transportation:

Indonesia’s vast archipelago boasts diverse public transportation options, making exploration accessible and affordable. Here’s an exhaustive guide:

Land Transportation

Bus

  • Inter-city buses (PO Bus, Primajasa): ~ $5-$20
  • Provincial buses (Angkutan Kota): ~ $1-$5
  • Luxury buses (Damri, Primajasa): ~ $20-$50

Train

  • Java and Sumatra: ~ $10-$50
  • Executive, Business and Economy classes available

Taxi

  • Starting fare: ~ $2
  • Ride-hailing apps (Gojek, Grab): ~ $3-$10

Sea Transportation

Ferry

  • Inter-island ferries: ~ $10-$50
  • Pelni ships: ~ $20-$100

Speedboat

  • Island-hopping: ~ $20-$50

Air Transportation

Domestic Flights

  • Budget airlines (Lion Air, Garuda): ~ $20-$100
  • Full-service airlines (Garuda, Sriwijaya): ~ $50-$200

Public Transportation Options

Jakarta

  • TransJakarta bus rapid transit: ~ $0.50
  • Jakarta MRT: ~ $1
  • Angkot (minivan): ~ $2

Bali

  • Perama bus: ~ $5
  • Bemo (minivan): ~ $3

Yogyakarta

  • Trans Jogja bus rapid transit: ~ $0.50
  • Andong (horse-drawn carriage): ~ $5

Top things to do:

Jakarta

  1. National Monument (~ $1)
  2. Istiqlal Mosque (free)
  3. Glodok (Chinatown) (free)
  4. Old Batavia (~ $5)
  5. Jakarta Cathedral (~ $5)
  6. Museum Nasional (~ $2)
  7. Monas (~ $1)
  8. Sunda Kelapa Harbour (~ $5)
  9. Ancol Dreamland (~ $20)
  10. Ragunan Zoo (~ $10)

Yogyakarta

  1. Borobudur Temple (~ $20)
  2. Sultan’s Palace (~ $10)
  3. Water Castle (~ $10)
  4. Ramayana Ballet (~ $20)
  5. Malioboro Street (free)
  6. Keraton Yogyakarta (~ $10)
  7. Taman Sari (~ $10)
  8. Ullen Sentalu Museum (~ $10)
  9. Prambanan Temple (~ $20)
  10. Merapi Volcano (~ $30)

Bali

  1. Uluwatu Temple (~ $10)
  2. Kuta Beach (free)
  3. Ubud Monkey Forest (~ $10)
  4. Tegalalang Rice Terrace (~ $10)
  5. Mount Batur (~ $50)
  6. Seminyak Beach (free)
  7. Nusa Dua Beach (free)
  8. Gili Islands (~ $30)
  9. Tanah Lot Temple (~ $10)
  10. Amed Beach (~ $10)

Lombok

  1. Rinjani National Park (~ $30)
  2. Taman Sangaw Beach (~ $10)
  3. Gili Islands (~ $30)
  4. Kuta Beach (free)
  5. Mount Rinjani (~ $50)
  6. Waterfall Tiu Kelep (~ $10)
  7. Pusuk Monkey Forest (~ $10)
  8. Senggigi Beach (free)
  9. Batu Bolong Temple (~ $10)
  10. Ekas Beach (~ $10)

Flores

  1. Komodo National Park (~ $50)
  2. Kelimutu National Park (~ $20)
  3. Pink Beach (~ $20)
  4. Rinca Island (~ $30)
  5. Batu Cermin Cave (~ $10)
  6. Wae Rebo Village (~ $20)
  7. Labuanbajo (~ $10)
  8. Maumere (~ $10)
  9. Ende (~ $10)
  10. Moni (~ $10)

Sumatra

  1. Lake Toba (~ $10)
  2. Bukit Lawang (~ $20)
  3. Gunung Leuser National Park (~ $30)
  4. Medan (~ $10)
  5. Berastagi (~ $10)
  6. Danau Kawah Putih (~ $10)
  7. Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre (~ $20)
  8. Samosir Island (~ $20)
  9. Parapat (~ $10)
  10. Sibolga (~ $10)

Sulawesi

  1. Bunaken National Park (~ $30)
  2. Toraja Land (~ $50)
  3. Makassar (~ $10)
  4. Fort Rotterdam (~ $10)
  5. Raja Ampat (~ $100)
  6. Tangkoko Nature Reserve (~ $20)
  7. Manado (~ $10)
  8. Tomohon (~ $10)
  9. Bitung (~ $10)
  10. Gorontalo (~ $10)

Papua

  1. Raja Ampat (~ $100)
  2. Jayapura (~ $20)
  3. Sentani Lake (~ $10)
  4. Baliem Valley (~ $50)
  5. Wamena (~ $20)
  6. Dani Tribe Village (~ $30)
  7. Sorong (~ $10)
  8. Manokwari (~ $10)
  9. Biak (~ $10)
  10. Merauke (~ $10)

Moluccas

  1. Ambon (~ $10)
  2. Banda Islands (~ $20)
  3. Ternate (~ $10)
  4. Tidore (~ $10)
  5. Morotai (~ $10)
  6. Halmahera (~ $10)
  7. Kei Islands (~ $20)
  8. Aru Islands (~ $20)
  9. Seram (~ $10)
  10. Buru (~ $10)

Nusa Tenggara

  1. Sumbawa (~ $10)
  2. Dompu (~ $10)
  3. Bima (~ $10)
  4. Rinjani National Park (~ $30)
  5. Moyo Island (~ $20)
  6. Satonda Island (~ $20)
  7. Komodo National Park (~ $50)
  8. Alor (~ $10)
  9. Kupang (~ $10)
  10. Atambua (~ $10)

Food:

Indonesia, a country famous for its multiculturalism and rich cultural tapestry, is also synonymous with diverse and mouthwatering food. Its archipelago location easily allows food from different parts of the country to merge into a unique fusion that tingles the taste buds. Indonesian cuisine is bold in flavor, aromatic in spices, and fresh in ingredients, reflecting the cultural diversity of the country.
In Indonesia, rice or nasi is the staple food and has lots of accompanying foods or dishes. At the same time, this is considered a leading dish-the fried rice called nasi goreng, which can be served with vegetables, meat, or seafood. Another staple dish is gado-gado, which is a refreshing salad composed of mixed vegetables, tofu, and tempeh, topped with peanut sauce. The available street food stalls or warungs or kaki lima offer affordable yet delicious options such as satay, soto, and siomay.
Regional delicacies are galore: Sumatra has its spicy sambal and spicy fish dishes such as ikan bakar. Java has gudeg, which is a stew of young jackfruit, a favorite dish in the region. Bali has an extraordinary version of rice and meat/vegetable dishes called nasi campur. Sulawesi has seafood-filled cuisine and tinutuan, or vegetable and fish porridge. Papua has exotic dishes, traditionally, with crocodile and snake meats.
The cultural influences of Indonesian cuisine reflect the Dutch, Chinese and Arabic flavors in abundance. Martabak, with its Middle Eastern flavors of a stuffed pancake filled with savory ingredients, bakpia-pastry filled with mung bean paste-showcases Chinese influence, while semur jawa, a kind of beef stew, underlines the Dutch legacy. Other international influences include Indian, Malaysian and Portuguese.
Food intake is often a social activity. In dining, it is considered correct etiquette to use one’s right hand because using the left hand is found impolite. Food is served in family portions, fostering a sense of familial sentiment. Indonesians embrace receiving guests as an act of great honor and manners.
It’s an ideal destination for adventurers offering a variety of fruits, such as durian, rambutan, and mangosteen. Colorful vegetables line local markets, or pasar, as an invitation to discovery. Night markets, or pasar malam, offer chances for tasting street food and experiencing local culture. A few famous night markets include Jakarta’s Ancol Night Market and Bali’s Ubud Night Market.
Indonesia’s diverse regions boast unique culinary traditions. Sumatra’s Padang cuisine is famous for its spicy dishes, while Java’s Solo city is renowned for its traditional dishes like nasi liwet. Bali’s culinary scene features innovative fusion cuisine, blending local flavors with international techniques.
Street food plays an important role in Indonesian cuisine. From crispy fried snacks, to hearty noodle soups, everything is sold through warungs and food stalls. A favorite among all kinds of street foods includes krupuk (shrimp or fish crackers), siomay (steamed dumplings), and bakso (meatballs).
Indonesian desserts are just as tempting: martabak manis or sweet pancake, es teler or shaved ice dessert, and kue lapis or layer cake. For snacks, there’s krupuk, rempeyek or peanut crackers, and emping or melon seeds. Beverages also abound in Indonesian cuisine. Local beverages such as jamu or herbal tea, gado-gado or fresh coconut drink, and sekoteng or ginger drink provide a refreshing alternative to Western-style sodas.
Food festivals and celebrations are identified with Indonesian culture. The traditional foods to be served during the Eid al-Fitr festival include ketupat and opor ayam, while Christmas is celebrated with sweets like stollen and spekkoek influenced by the Dutch.
Food in Indonesia is more than just nourishment; it signifies hospitality, community, and cultural heritage. With every taste, one discovers different elements of the country and creates unforgettable memories.
Indonesian cuisine boasts such diversity that something more often than not is to be learned about it. Whether in bustling streets, visiting a local market, or home-cooked meals, Indonesia’s culinary landscape promises a magical journey for the taste buds.

Culture:

The culture of Indonesia is a bright fabric of various influences, which stems from its position at the crossroads of Asia. On more than 17,000 islands and with over 300 ethnic groups, Indonesian culture radiates warmth in hospitality, respect for tradition, and strong attachment to community.
The Indonesian ideal of “gotong royong,” or communal solidarity, is one of mutual aid and cooperation. This spirit of harmony can be clearly seen in the communal activities customary in traditional village life, such as in rice cultivation and in celebrating festivals. Great respect is reserved for elders and for tradition in general, as shown by etiquette customs such as “salam” (greeting) and “sopan santun” which show respect to the notion of authority.
Centuries of international exchange have shaped Indonesia’s cultural identity through the influences of Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Confucianism. The strategic location of the country for trade transactions has easily enabled the process of cultural transfer in the realms of architecture, art, and food. Islamic influence, coming from the 13th century, has notably contributed to Indonesian culture, particularly within Java and Sumatra.
Traditional Indonesian arts possess a high value of beauty and symbolism. Batik is a very intricate textile art that represents Indonesian cultural heritage, while wood carvings and sculptures decorate temples and palaces. Music and dance are an essential part of Indonesian culture; the sounds from instruments such as the gamelan and angklung create magical effects. The Legong and Ramayana Ballet are examples of classical dances that have beautiful movements and storytelling.
Vibrant festivals and celebrations mark the expression of Indonesian culture. Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, and Nyepi Day of Silence are examples of the diverse religious traditions celebrated in Indonesia. Galungan and Ogoh-Ogoh festivals in Bali show Hindu influences, while Java’s Sekaten festival honors the Islamic heritage. Traditional wedding events and harvest festivals round off the communal activities.
Indonesian etiquette is all about respect and courtesy. There is a warm reception with guest gestures such as “salam” and offering refreshments. Removing shoes when entering homes or temples shows respect. Table manners feature using the right hand and lots of sharing.
Family is paramount in Indonesian culture. Extended families share the same residence, promoting close relationships among members. Traditional roles involve respect for elders, and grandparents are often highly involved in childcare and cultural transmission.
Highly appreciative, the Indonesian population shows a literacy rate above 90%. Traditional schools would include pesantren and sekolah dasar, teaching Islamic studies and basic education. Modern education embraces science and technology, along with critical thinking.
Modern urbanization and globalization shape Indonesia’s contemporary culture. Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya have become hubs for modern art, music, and fashion. Indonesian cinema has become more globally popular with themes of social justice and culture identification.
Despite rapid modernization, Indonesian culture is still very traditional. The communities work to preserve it through cultural festivals, language programs, and handcrafts. Safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia, such as wayang puppetry and batik-making, ensures that the country’s rich cultural heritage endures into the future.
The Indonesian cultural tapestry continuously evolves, weaving together eclectic influences and traditions. This dynamic country is a nation that steadfastly inspires curiosity, creativity, and connection in a bid to explore and understand its richly different cultural heritage.
Indonesian values stand for harmony and balance, with concepts like “rukun” meaning social harmony, and “keseimbangan” meaning balance. Community cohesion is nurtured through shared activities and mutual support.
Traditional Indonesian medicine, called “jamu,” incorporates herbal treatments with spiritual practices. This is a holistic treatment that intends to create balance and harmony within the body and the environment.
Indonesia’s vibrant cultural landscape encompasses diverse traditional clothing, such as batik, tenun and songket. These intricate textiles symbolize regional identities and cultural pride.
Regional cultures showcase unique characteristics, like Sumatra’s strong Islamic influences and Bali’s Hindu traditions. Java’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its majestic temples and vibrant arts scene.
Indonesia’s cultural exchange with neighboring countries has fostered a shared Southeast Asian identity. Cultural collaborations and festivals celebrate regional unity.
Globalization has introduced Western influences, shaping modern Indonesian culture. Contemporary music, fashion and art reflect international trends.
Indonesia’s cultural resilience is evident in its response to challenges like natural disasters and social change. Communities rally together, demonstrating strength and solidarity.
As Indonesia modernizes further, its rich heritage continues to be a guiding force in its tradition-meets-innovation manner. Indonesia’s culture will hence always be dynamic and excitingly reflective of its diverse people.
The story of Indonesia is one of cultural fusion, where ancient traditions have been woven together with modern influences. This enchanted archipelago opens its arms for a journey of exploration, discovery, and communion with its vibrant cultural heritage.

Accommodations:

Indonesia is a haven for budget travelers, and its hostels offer an unparalleled balance between affordability and adventure. Those who would take the road less traveled may find that booking the cheapest option frequently gets them some of the most unique, crazy, and amazing experiences.
Venture into Indonesia’s hostels, and you’ll come to realize that you can easily find budget accommodations beginning for as low as $5 per night. Simple, somewhat Spartan in appeal, these low-budget hostels offer a semblance of authenticity you rarely find.
You will discover that many of the cheaper hostels are found in small alleys, on top of family-run eateries, or amid bustling markets. These are the places that will become the surprise entryway to very real cultural interactions: sharing with locals and other travelers alike.
In Indonesia, the line between lodging and community hubs often gets blurred in many of the budget hostels. On-site rooms become makeshift gathering spaces where travelers share tales of adventure and swap suggestions. In these casual settings, strangers often become friends.
Indonesia’s hostels reflect eclectic decor that reflects the diversity in cultural heritage. Bright colors, intricate patterns, and quirky bits of art hang off walls, creating visually stunning spaces that lead to curiosity.
To maximize your Indonesian hostel adventure, embrace spontaneity and flexibility. Be prepared for unexpected encounters, impromptu outings and shared meals that foster lasting connections.
While amenities may be basic, Indonesia’s budget hostels prioritize what truly matters: hospitality, camaraderie and access to uncharted experiences. From rooftop jam sessions to impromptu cooking classes, every moment becomes an opportunity for connection and growth.
In Indonesia’s hostels, the phrase “rough around the edges” translates into charm and character. Don’t be surprised if your accommodation morphs into a makeshift party space or hot spot for impromptu game nights.
Taking advantage of Indonesia’s budget hostels involves an open mind and adaptability. Only when you let go of the known can you discover the secrets of Indonesian culture, create some unforgettable moments, and enjoy what backpacking is all about.
For the bold and budget traveler, Indonesia’s hostel landscape beckons an adventure unlike any other. Book that room for $5, and get ready to be plunged into the unpredictable, exciting world of hostels in Indonesia.
As you weave your way through Indonesia’s hostel scene, expect surprises around every corner. Hostel owners may invite you to join family gatherings or traditional ceremonies, offering glimpses into authentic Indonesian life.
Social connections forged in hostels often extend beyond your stay. Travelers exchange contact information, planning future reunions or spontaneous meetups.
Indonesia’s hostels become incubators for creativity, inspiring artistic expression and collaboration. Musicians jam together, writers share stories and artists showcase their talents.
Budget-friendly hostels encourage exploration, providing insider tips on off-the-beaten-path destinations and local secrets.
The richness of Indonesia’s culture seems to spill over into the food served in hostels-communal kitchens serving up regional delicacies and family recipes. Often, hostel employees may moonlight as unofficial tour guides who know insider information on local sights and secret spots. From bustling cities to idyllic islands, Indonesia’s network of budget hostels extends across the archipelago, offering affordable accommodation wherever your journey may take you. Be it adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Indonesia’s budget hostels have different traveler tastes covered.
Embrace Indonesia’s hostel scene, and discover a world where budget-friendly accommodations unlock unforgettable experiences.
In this vibrant nation, hostels transcend mere lodging, embodying community spirit and cultural connection.
Indonesia awaits, ready to welcome broke backpackers seeking the ultimate adventure.

Nightlife:

Nightlife in Indonesia is coloured with the vibrant hues of the country’s diversity in culture, ranging from traditional rhythms to modern beats. Starting from dusk, the Indonesian towns turn into spirited centres of entertainment that cater to diverse tastes and preferences of people.
Mixing the chimes of traditional instruments, such as the gamelan and angklung, with electronic dance music, this is infectious energy that drew both locals and travelers in. Elsewhere, in cities such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya, rooftop bars and clubs show breathtaking city skylines, while beachside bars in Bali and Lombok provide stunning sunsets.
Bali’s nightlife is as legendary as anything on the island, with beachside bars and clubs pulsating to the rhythm of international DJs. Yet there’s something intrinsically laid-back about the island that keeps even the most frenetic parties relaxed and friendly. Java’s nightlife ranges from intimate live music venues to places showcasing local talent.
Sumatra’s cities provide an eclectic mix of traditional and modern entertainment, from cultural performances to night markets-one can just dive right in. The strong maritime culture of Sulawesi shapes its nightlife: beachside bars, seafood restaurants.
Indonesia’s nightlife is also reflective of its rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals like Galungan and Ogoh-Ogoh featuring vibrant night-time processions. Modern events like the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta show off the country’s thriving music scene, showcasing global musicians.
Equally posh cocktail lounges to dance clubs with frenetic energy, Indonesia has it all for nightlife. From glamorous rooftop parties to the underground music scenes to small and cozy jazz clubs, tourists will experience it all.
The local DJs and musicians perform alongside the international ones, which makes the nights really dynamic in style. Nightlife in Indonesia is essentially the communal spirit of Indonesia, nurturing connections between residents and visitors alike.
Social connections forged in the nightclubs and bars often extend beyond the night into the travel stories and recommendations shared by travelers. Indonesian hospitality ensures visitors feel welcome, sharing in the joy and enthusiasm.
Going out in Indonesia’s nightlife demands an open mind and adaptability from a tourist. Be prepared to bump into some unexpected surprises, impromptu performances, and shared moments that turn lifetime memories.
As Indonesia proceeds through times of continuous growth, its nighttime scene is one crucial reflection of the nation’s creativity, diversity, and infectious energy. Dive into Indonesia’s nocturnal world and find out why it’s magical under the stars.
After dark, Indonesia’s cities pulse to an irresistible rhythm, inviting exploration and connection. Abandon yourself to the night as Indonesia’s vivid nightlife whisks your senses on an unforgettable odyssey of discovery.
Every successive night, Indonesia’s cities unfold new secrets-gems waiting behind every secret place and unexpected delights. From a hidden speakeasy to a rooftop pool, every nook and cranny holds a surprise in store to make nights unforgettable.
Indonesia’s nightlife creates a magic spell across borders, which unites travelers and locals together in celebration. Join the rhythm, let go of inhibitions, and indulge in Indonesia’s fascinating nightlife.
At first light, the memories of this night stick around to remind one of the timeless beauty of Indonesia. Be it serenity or excitement, Indonesia’s nightlife will give an experience that echoes deep within.
Diversity, harmony, and shared joy- Indonesia’s nightlife is a rich tapestry of cultures. Step into the night and let Indonesia’s vibrant spirit embrace you.

Backpacking Indonesia costs:

Accommodation

Hostel dorms are the cheapest option, costing between $6-13 per night, with an average cost of $6 per night ¹. You can also find budget guesthouses and hotels for $27 per night on average.

Transportation

Transportation costs around $5 per day. Local buses are the cheapest option, with prices starting from $1 for a one-way ticket from Jakarta to Yogyakarta. Trains are another affordable option, with prices ranging from $15.22 to $21.50 for a one-way ticket.

Food

Eating out is cheaper than cooking your own meals, with street food starting from $1.20 for a bowl of soto ayam or $1.50 for nasi goreng. Breakfast typically costs between $1-3, while lunch and dinner options range from $2-4.

Daily Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: $6-13 (hostel) or $27 (budget hotel)
  • Transportation: $5
  • Food: $10-15
  • Total: $21-38

Weekly Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: $42-91 (hostel) or $189 (budget hotel)
  • Transportation: $35
  • Food: $70-105
  • Total: $147-321

Conclusion:

As you travel through Indonesia, remember that being a Broke Backpacker is not just about the pennies; it’s also about freedom, spontaneity, and cultural interaction. Indonesia’s vibrant streets, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality await your arrival to impress your senses and inspire your soul.
With daily budgets starting from $20-30, Indonesia offers an unparalleled backpacking experience. From bustling cities to idyllic islands, every moment becomes an opportunity for connection, growth and discovery.
By embracing the unknown, you will find your hidden treasures, create memories that will last, and find the real Indonesia. Take the plunge, therefore, and let Indonesia’s irrepressible energy sweep you away on an unforgettable journey.
Indonesian beauty is not only in the landscapes but also in its people, food, and culture. As one travels through this magical archipelago, remember to respect customs, taste different flavors, and make useful connections.
Broke backpacking Indonesia is more than an affordable adventure; it’s a journey into self-discovery, cultural exchange, and limitless exploration.