
Bali Explorer
Explore the beach-fringed island of Bali taking in its culture and natural beauty beyond the well-trodden path.
An intoxicating land of seemingly endless exploration, Indonesia’s islands have something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill seeker, culture connoisseur or nature lover. The scenery is gorgeous with a stunningly beautiful archipelago and an amazing array of differing holiday experiences.
To name a few of the well-known islands, we have the ever-popular Bali, the even prettier Lombok, volcano-covered Java and the horse-filled grasslands of Sumba. Lesser known islands such as Sulawesi and Raja Ampat offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world, while you’ll feel on the edge of the world exploring the Maluku Islands. Of course, with over 17,000 islands, we simply can’t list them all here, but our knowledge is extensive if you’d like to call us for a chat.
Where do you start with a holiday to Indonesia – a country which spans over 3000 miles? Many visitors begin with Bali and with good reason. It is famously hospitable, and it has so much to offer the modern traveller. While there is some over-tourism, the issues are on a limited area of the island (the beaches in the south and Ubud specifically) and much of the rest of the island remains unspoilt. Nearby Lombok is an incredible island, particularly for those Robinson Crusoe beach fantasies.
Further on, Java has world-class cultural/historical sites, including the Borobudur Temple Complex and outstanding volcanic scenery. Sumatra and Sulawesi remain superb ‘off the beaten track’ islands with so much to discover in terms of wildlife, scenery and culture. Surfing, cultural exploration and glorious beaches mean Sumba is on the radar for those looking for an accessible but distant dream destination. Flores is home to the famous Komodo dragons and a base for wonderful yachting trips to deserted coves and islands!
Indonesia is brimming with wonderful wildlife that you can witness ethically, in its natural habitat.
Indonesia is brimming with wonderful wildlife that you can witness ethically, in its natural habitat.
Indonesia is brimming with wonderful wildlife that you can witness ethically, in its natural habitat.
The weather in Indonesia broadly follows a tropical seasonal pattern, with the dry season running from April till October and the monsoon season from November through to March. It is hot, and the humidity is high year-round, but the best time to visit varies from island to island. The weather in the rainy season is variable; while Bali is usually relatively dry in February, nearby Java can be very wet. See our Weather & Best Time to Visit Indonesia page for more.
Where do you start with popular holidays in Indonesia? From beach holidays in Bali and Lombok to a thrilling close encounter with wildlife in Sulawesi, or cultural explorations in Java, there is an incredible variety of experiences on offer.
Most people would at least consider Bali and Java as part of their trip. Still, Lombok, Sulawesi, Sumatra, The Maluku Islands, Sumba, Flores and West Papua and Sumbawa all have their various charms. Parts of your trip will likely cover wildlife, volcanic scenery and a glorious beach – as you’ll never be far away from these. But there’s so much more to Indonesia.
Explore the beach-fringed island of Bali taking in its culture and natural beauty beyond the well-trodden path.
Combine the cultural and natural wonders of Bali with the idyllic white-sand beaches of Lombok.
Experience the cultural highlights of Java & Bali with relaxation on some of Indonesia's most beautiful beaches.
Combine the wildlife and natural splendour of Komodo National Park, with the timeless, atmospheric beauty of Bali.
Luxury combined with wonder and adventure in some of the most breathtaking surroundings on earth.
An extraordinary chance to explore several fascinating cultures, some incredible scenery and diverse native wildlife.
We love crafting distinctive holidays, unique to you. Our in-country presence means we offer up-to-date knowledge and fantastic on the ground support and guidance. We work closely with our partners to source the best local guides so your holiday is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Pick up the phone and find out why our customers say it’s a pleasure to deal with our consultants.
Even on popular islands like Bali, we know where to find pockets of untouched and authentic beauty.
Volcanic views and evocative temples are two hallmarks of an Indonesian holiday; the 'Stairway to Heaven' encompasses both.
Indonesia was the birthplace of the boutique hotel, and it still has some of the best in the world. More recently, this style has spread to islands such as Java and Flores too – with a similar understated hospitable charm but in the local vernacular.
On islands where tourism is less developed, there is the occasional gem and some options which ‘do a job’. Experience Travel Group can help ensure you find those gems and that you know what to expect if you need to stay in a place with less than stellar options when the location or experience is essential to your holiday.
What you are unlikely to find on an ETG holiday though, is bland or corporate. We feature Indonesian hotels that speak to the destination and that are part of the local community.
Fantastic off the beaten track eco beach camp surrounded by acres of forest on Lombok.
Beautiful resort with outstanding views of Ubud's Campuchan River Valley and its sloping rice paddy fields.
Recuperate in luxury and style at this stunning wellness retreat surrounded by the volcanic peaks.
Nihi is an intimate island retreat, eco-friendly, sustainable hotel and barefoot luxury beach getaway.
A tranquil and comfortable base from which to explore Komodo National Park.
Get back to nature and unwind in this peaceful Bali beach hotel surrounded by paddy fields and mountains.
While we develop our full guide to Indonesia (with 17,000 islands, it takes some editing!), why not take a look at this inspiring guide to Sulawesi and the Spice Islands? These lesser-known and boundlessly captivating islands are a must for curious travellers looking to push the boundaries and experience something utterly new.
Sulawesi and the Spice Islands. The very names promise romance and adventure. They seem to be islands many have heard of, but few can place. Download our complimentary guide to these lesser-known islands of Indonesia, and discover why it's worth taking the path less trodden.
Before you travel to a country like Indonesia, you'll want to be sure that you have all the required information necessary for staying safe and healthy, ensuring you have the correct visa information and relevant travel insurance.
Experience Travel group have a wealth of information for our customers on our website and also once you confirm your holiday, as part of our ‘journey’ on our app, customer portal and sent in our exciting pre-departure packs and email.
The consultants are always up to date on the latest travel advice, and while trips are not listed, but tailor-made, they all have protection and the ATOL license. Through the ATOL scheme, customers would receive the ATOL certificate then the booking details.
We offer 100% protection and bonding on all of our holidays.
Exceptional, ethical experiences that impact positively; sustainable, mindful travel is at the heart of all we do. So, you can tread gently, knowing every step of your journey counts.
Unforgettable journeys where you realise you don't need the same language to laugh, commune and connect. Come join our travel collective and share the extraordinary world we know.
Imaginative, immersive adventures; our individually created holidays are your guaranteed passport to a life less ordinary. Embrace the unexpected; travel curiously; discover a new you.
Bespoke itineraries designed to suit you, and only you. With full financial protection and 24/7 support; we'll ensure you travel seamlessly, safely and responsibly, too. We're with you all the way.
Each journey with ETG is different. Let us know your needs, hopes and fears, and our friendly travel team will help you discover your ideal holiday.
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