The Top 5 Scenic Routes to Take in Indonesia

A lush, mist-covered landscape in Indonesia at sunrise, featuring a long railway bridge stretching across dense green hills. Soft golden and pink hues from the rising sun color the sky, adding warmth to the tranquil scene. Overlay text reads, "The Best 5 Scenic Routes to Take in Indonesia" in a bold and playful font.
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Indonesia is a paradise for anyone who loves to be surrounded by nature’s raw beauty. From towering volcanic mountains to lush jungles and pristine beaches, the landscapes here are as diverse as they are stunning. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone simply looking for a peaceful escape, Indonesia offers something for everyone. With over 17,000 islands, it’s no surprise that the country is packed with scenic routes that are perfect for exploring by road, boat, or train.  Today, I’m going to take you through the top 5 scenic routes you can take in Indonesia, each offering its own slice of paradise. These routes aren’t just about getting from one place to another—they’re experiences that let you soak in the beauty of the country at every turn. So, if you’re struggling to decide where to go on your next trip to Indonesia, these scenic routes will inspire you to hit the road (or water) and start exploring.

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The beauty of Indonesia’s most scenic routes lies in their variety. You can cruise through bustling cityscapes and small villages, or unwind in the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re traveling overland or hopping between islands, each route has its own unique charm that makes it worth the journey.

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Indonesia’s top 5 scenic routes you shouldn’t miss

It’s not just about the destination—it’s about the adventure along the way. From the coffee-scented roads of Java to the turquoise waters around Bali, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping views that will make you want to stop and take it all in. Ready to get inspired? Let’s dive into the 5 must-see routes that’ll give you a fresh perspective on Indonesia’s natural beauty.

Jakarta to Bandung

The journey from Jakarta to Bandung offers more than just a connection between two cities—it’s a visual feast. As you head out of Jakarta (using whatever mode of transport), you’ll quickly be greeted by lush rice terraces and the stunning sight of volcanic mountains in the distance. The road winds through the beautiful Parahyangan mountains, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Tangkuban Perahu, a dormant volcano. Bandung itself is a mix of natural beauty and colonial charm, with its cooler climate providing a nice break from the heat of Jakarta. Don’t miss out on the Tangkuban Perahu crater and the Kawah Putih crater lake with its surreal turquoise waters—it’s like stepping into another world.

Volcanic crater at Tangkuban Perahu with rocky terrain, steaming vents, and a fenced lookout point.

What Transport to Take from Jakarta to Bandung

While you can get from Jakarta to Bandung by car or bus, I highly recommend taking the train. Not only is it a scenic ride that winds through lush countryside and picturesque villages, but it’s also a comfortable and efficient way to travel. The train journey takes about 3 hours and offers a smooth, stress-free ride—perfect for soaking in the views. Plus, it’s more eco-friendly and avoids the notorious Jakarta traffic jams. Private cars are an option if you’re in a rush, but with a similar travel time of around 3 hours, the train offers a much more relaxed, enjoyable journey. Buses are the budget option, but they can take a bit longer—around 3.5 to 4 hours—especially during peak traffic times.

Best Time to Travel from Jakarta to Bandung

Take this route between May and September – the skies are clearer and the mountain views are amazing.

Booking Tickets from Jakarta to Bandung

Booking a private car can easily be arranged through local travel agencies, car rental services in Jakarta, or check out Daytrip and do a load of sightseeing along the way. If you’re opting for a bus, tickets can be booked online or at the bus terminal. For train travel, you can book your tickets through Bookaway, the Indonesian Railways website, or at the station. It’s always a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times like public holidays or long weekends, to avoid last-minute hassle.

Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island:

Labuan Bajo, located on the western tip of Flores Island, is the gateway to the legendary Komodo Island. The journey by boat to Komodo offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views you’ll find anywhere in Indonesia. The highlight, of course, is the famous Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest lizards, that roam freely in their natural habitat. But it’s not just the dragons you’ll want to see. Komodo Island is also home to stunning beaches, including the unique Pink Beach, where the sand actually has a pink hue due to a mix of coral and white sand. Along the way, you’ll pass other nearby islands like Rinca, which also offers incredible wildlife and hiking trails, as well as crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Want to know what its like seeing Komodo Dragons? My guide is here.

Alt text: Close-up of a Komodo dragon lying on the ground, showing its rough, scaly skin and muscular forelimb.

What Transport to Take from Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island

To get to Komodo Island, your only option is to travel by boat from Labuan Bajo. There are daily boat services available, ranging from fast ferries to private chartered boats. The trip generally takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of boat. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can charter a boat with a crew, which allows for a more personalized and comfortable journey. These boats can take you not only to Komodo but also to other nearby islands, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Best Time to Travel from Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island

Travel between April and June when the sea conditions are much calmer, and it makes for an easier landing on the islands.

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Booking Tickets to go from Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island

You can book boat tickets at the Labuan Bajo harbor or through local travel agencies. To ensure that there’s a boat that meets your needs, you are best off prebooking, especially during the peak tourist season. There are also several tour companies that offer day trips to Komodo Island, which typically include transport, guides, and meals on the boat.

Medan to Lake Toba

The journey from Medan to Lake Toba is nothing short of spectacular. As you leave the bustling city behind, you’ll quickly enter a more serene, natural landscape. Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, is surrounded by lush green hills and the towering mountains of North Sumatra. The view is absolutely stunning. You’ll also want to check out Samosir Island, located in the middle of the lake, which is home to Batak villages, traditional homes, and unique cultural experiences. A visit to the ancient stone chairs in Ambarita, where traditional Batak ceremonies were once held, is a must. The area is steeped in history and culture, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.

Wide view of Lake Toba surrounded by rolling green hills and misty mountain ridges under a cloudy sky.

What Transport to Take from Medan to Lake Toba

To reach Lake Toba from Medan, you have a few options, but the most popular and practical method is by bus or private car. A bus ride takes about 5 to 6 hours, offering a chance to see the rural landscape along the way. However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable and flexible experience, a private car or driver is the best choice, taking about 4 to 5 hours. For a more adventurous option, you can also take a minivan or a shared taxi, which is faster but can be a bit crowded. Once you arrive in Parapat (the town by the lake), you can take a ferry to Samosir Island, which is about 30-45 minutes across the lake.

Best Time to Travel from Medan to Lake Toba

The weather between June and August is best for the most amazing views of Lake Toba.

Booking Tickets from Medan to Lake Toba

Bus tickets can be easily purchased at the Medan bus terminal or through bookaway. For a private car or driver, you can arrange bookings through local travel agencies or car rental services in Medan. It’s best to book your ferry ride to Samosir Island at the port, where there are regular departures throughout the day. During high season, it’s a good idea to book in advance to ensure you get a spot, especially on the ferry.

Makassar to Toraja

The journey from Makassar to Toraja is like stepping into a whole new world. As you travel inland, the landscape transforms from the coastal beauty of Makassar into the cool, mountainous terrain of Toraja. Toraja is famous for its unique culture, particularly its elaborate funeral ceremonies, traditional “tongkonan” houses, and the hauntingly beautiful cliffside tombs. The lush, green rice terraces and panoramic mountain views along the way are stunning. Don’t miss out on visiting the famous Kete Kesu village, where you can see the traditional burial sites and stone carvings. The breathtaking views of the Toraja highlands will make the long drive worth it.

Traditional Tongkonan houses in Toraja, Indonesia, with curved red roofs and wooden stilts.

What Transport to Take from Makassar to Toraja

The only way to travel from Makassar to Toraja is by road. Most people opt for private cars or minivans, which are available through local travel agencies. The drive takes about 8-10 hours, so it’s a long trip, but it’s one that’s filled with incredible scenery along the way. If you’re on a budget, there are also public buses that run this route, although the journey can be a bit less comfortable, taking around 10 to 12 hours. A quicker option is to fly from Makassar to Rantepao (the main town in Toraja), though flights are limited, and you’ll still need a car to get to the sights once you arrive.

Best Time to Travel from Makassar to Toraja

Enjoy the cooler weather between May and October for this route.

Booking Tickets to go from Makassar to Toraja

You can arrange a private car rental or tour package with a driver in Makassar, which will provide comfort and flexibility during the journey. If you prefer to take a bus, tickets can be bought at the Makassar bus terminal or through travel agencies. To book a flight to Rantepao, check with local airlines for availability, as flights are not frequent. It’s always best to plan ahead, as this route can get busy during peak seasons.

Lombok to the Gili Islands

The journey from Lombok to the Gili Islands offers a chance to experience some of Indonesia’s most iconic coastal scenery. Lombok itself is known for its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and the towering Mount Rinjani. But it’s the Gili Islands that steal the show. These small, car-free islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—are known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant underwater life. Snorkeling or diving here is a must, as the coral reefs are teeming with tropical fish, turtles, and even manta rays. On the islands, you’ll find a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after your journey. Whether you want to watch the sunrise over Mount Rinjani and then dive into the clear waters, the Gilis offer an unforgettable experience.

Volcanoes from Gili Air at Sunset

What Transport to Take from Lombok to the Gili Islands

Getting from Lombok to the Gili Islands is easy and can be done by boat.  You’ll need transport, of course, to get to the boat departure points.  I’ve written about this route in detail here. There are frequent speedboat services that run from Lombok’s Senggigi or Bangsal port to the Gili Islands. The journey usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on which Gili you’re heading to. If you prefer a more private experience, you can charter a private boat, which can take you directly to your chosen island and offers a more leisurely journey. The boats run regularly throughout the day, and you can choose from public ferries or faster, more expensive speedboats. For those staying on Lombok, a short drive to the boat terminal is needed before you set off.

Best Time to Travel from Lombok to the Gili Islands

You’ll get calm waters from April until October on this route.

Booking Tickets to go from Lombok to the Gili Islands

Boat tickets to the Gili Islands can be booked online or directly at the port. It is easiest to book your tickets from Lombok to the Gilis here.  You can opt for transport to the port, or just book from the port.  Many hotels and hostels in Lombok also offer boat ticket services, so you can easily arrange your transport once you’ve checked in. If you’re booking a private boat, it’s best to arrange it in advance to ensure availability. For regular boat services, tickets are available at the port, but it’s still a good idea to book ahead during the high season.

Popular Indonesian Routes to Travel

Want to know more about different forms of transport in Indonesia? Our guide to Indonesian transport is here. And here’s how to travel some of the popular routes around Indonesia, your options, and how we did it.

Types of Transport in Indonesia:

Indonesia offers a variety of transport options to help you explore its diverse landscapes, each with its own unique advantages. Whether you’re looking to journey through dense forests, drive along coastal roads, or sail to distant islands, the country has something for every traveler. Here are the main ways you can travel around Indonesia.

Indonesia By Car

Renting a car is one of the most flexible ways to explore the country. It gives you the freedom to stop at any scenic spot and take your time. Many travelers prefer hiring a car and driver for a more relaxed experience—especially in places like Bali or Java, where navigating the roads can be tricky.

Indonesia By Bus

If you’re on a budget (and face it, we all are!), buses are an affordable and practical choice. While they may not be the most comfortable option, they connect major cities and tourist hotspots, allowing you to travel overland with ease. Buses are perfect for long stretches, like the route from Jakarta to Bandung.

Indonesia By Train

Train travel in Indonesia is a fantastic way to see the countryside, but Java and some routes in Sumatra are all that are accessible by train. It’s a comfortable and scenic way to get from one city to the next while enjoying views of rice fields, mountains, and villages.

White and red Indonesian train stopped at a small tropical station with palm trees and a blue sky.

Indonesia by Boat

If you’re planning to hop between islands, and let’s face it, with 17,000 islands, you might not have a choice, then boat travel is essential. From ferries that connect nearby islands to private boat charters for remote destinations like Komodo Island, traveling by sea is an unforgettable way to see Indonesia’s coastal beauty.

Indonesia by Motorcycle

For the more adventurous traveler, renting a motorcycle is a popular choice, especially for exploring Bali, Lombok, or Sumatra. It’s the ideal way to get off the beaten path, explore hidden gems, and zip through scenic backroads.

No matter which transport you choose, each one offers a different way to soak in the stunning landscapes. So, let’s dive into the routes you won’t want to miss!

Travel Tips for Exploring Indonesia

Final Words on Indonesia’s 5 Best Scenic Routes:

Indonesia is a land of stunning diversity, and its scenic routes offer a perfect way to experience everything this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you’re driving through the mountains of Java, cruising to Komodo Island, or relaxing on the beaches of the Gili Islands, each journey promises its own set of breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. These routes aren’t just about the destinations—they’re about the journey itself, each one showcasing the natural beauty, rich culture, and unique charm that make Indonesia a must-visit country.  So, if you’re feeling stuck about where to go or what to do on your next adventure, I hope these 5 scenic routes have inspired you to hit the road (or water). With so much to see and explore, the only problem you’ll have is deciding where to go first!

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AUTHOR

Sarah Carter
Sarah Carter is an avid reader, writer and traveller. She loves hiking, sailing, skiing and exploring the world through food. She left a successful career in IT security and compliance in both the UK and US to travel the world with husband and partner in adventure, Nigel.

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