
The sprawling Indonesian archipelago encompasses more than 17,000 paradise islands and offers travellers a variety of memorable adventures and experiences, be that lazing on a blissful beach or two, searching for dragons, exploring culturally-significant landmarks or admiring awesome volcanic scenery.
Those that crave the beach life will find a rich assortment of sands on Bali. The southern shores entice with family-friendly Sanur, exclusive Nusa Dua and the fun-filled watersports of Benoa. Further east is tranquil Candidasa with its volcanic sands, while on the north west coast is Menjangan which lies within the unspoiled West Bali National Park.
Just a hop inland from Bali’s southern beaches is Ubud, which as the island’s cultural and artistic heart, oozes creativity. Craft shops and galleries crowd the central marketplace, while in the surrounding countryside spectacular rice terraces overlook river valleys and intricately carved temples are concealed within lush forests.
Travel across the Lombok Strait to neighbouring Lombok for secluded beaches, great dive spots, tumbling waterfalls, verdant forests and an active volcano, Mount Rinjani. Lombok is also gateway to the celebrated Gili Islands - Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air - three exquisite droplets of white sands encircled by teeming coral reefs.
Beyond the beaches, Java is the heart of the nation and jam-packed with smoking volcanoes, mesmerising temples and pea-green paddy fields. At its centre is Yogyakarta, a distinctive town and fascinating stronghold for tradition and culture. Other highlights include the majestic Borobudur temple complex and watching the sun rise over the lunar-like landscapes of the volcanic Bromo region.
At Rinca Island wildlife watchers are also in for a treat. Part of Indonesia’s Komodo National Park it’s one of very few places to spot ferocious Komodo dragons in the wild.
Consider also combining a stay in Bali, or one of its neighbouring islands, with other Far East or Middle Eastern destinations.
GMT + 8 hours
Indonesian Rupiah
There are no non-stop flights between the UK and Bali, travel is usually via Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur and the total travelling time including a 90 minute stop is approximately 17 hours. Lombok is 2 hours from Bali by ferry or a short 35 minute flight. Gili Meno is around 30 minutes by boat from Lombok. Flights to Java from Bali are approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to Jakarta; 1 hour 10 minutes to Yogyakarta and 40 minutes to Surabaya.
While April to October is considered the best time, there is never a bad time to travel to Bali, Lombok or Java, as it’s generally warm throughout the year. Although more rain tends to fall from November to March, it’s usually a short, tropical downpour.
On this half day tour of Bali’s largest city, see the attractive main square which houses the Bali Museum, visit the colourful pasar – Indonesian market and stop at the Bali Arts Centre.
From £35
A full day tour which includes a colourful market, scenic views of the Gili Islands from Pusak Pass and a walk through tropical rainforest to see Sendang Gile Waterfall.
From £35
A half day tour offering an introduction to Bali’s arts and crafts. At Celuk see skilled artisans creating silver jewellery and ornaments; at Mas watch fine woodcarvers; and in Ubud view paintings.
From £39
A chance to see real Bali in a day. Experience traditional dances, picturesque rice fields, fascinating handicrafts and villages. View Mount and Lake Batur, the Holy Springs and Ubud.
From £45
A full day tour which includes a walk through scenic terraced rice fields, the Royal Temple of Menegwi, the sacred Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot, famous as the sunset temple.
From £45
Enjoy fabulous cycling amongst fields of local fresh fruit and vegetables, while higher altitudes offer scenic views of the hauntingly beautiful mountains and terraced rice fields.
From £55
This full day tour (including lunch) offers you the opportunity to explore the culture of Bali and gain a true understanding of the traditional way of life here. Begin with a visit to a market before travelling on to a Balinese village where you spend time with the villagers and learn how their houses are built, the tropical plants grown here and can also visit the school. After lunch, trek to a rice field for an insight to farming and irrigation methods.
From £59
A full day tour which gives you the chance to discover the secrets of authentic Balinese cuisine. The cooking class starts with a visit to a traditional market before you travel to Rumah Desa cookery school. Here, the team offer a real insight to Balinese food in terms of tradition, culture and religion, before you have the chance to cook and enjoy a delicious lunch (included in price).
From £65