10 BEST places to visit in Indonesia in April

Planning a trip to Indonesia in April? You’re in for a treat. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s tropical islands, cultural cities, and hidden gems without the heavy crowds.

Whether you want to relax on a quiet beach, hike up a volcano, visit ancient temples, or dive into colourful coral reefs, Indonesia has it all.

From well-known spots like Bali to lesser-known treasures that feel like secret worlds, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 10 BEST places to visit in Indonesia in April, each one offering a mix of adventure, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

1) Bali

Bali, one of the most popular islands in Indonesia, is full of life, beauty, and variety. It’s known for its lush rice terraces, ancient temples, surf beaches, and a creative culture that you can feel everywhere—from local art to daily offerings placed around homes and shops.

In places like Ubud, you can walk through quiet forests, visit craft markets, and explore peaceful temples. Down by the coast, areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu are great for relaxing on the beach, enjoying sunsets, or trying delicious local and international food.

Bali also has waterfalls, volcano hikes, and small villages where life moves slowly and traditions are still strong. Whether you’re into adventure, relaxing by the pool, learning something new, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings, Bali has something for everyone.

It’s a place where you can have fun, feel calm, and discover a side of Indonesia that’s full of colour and culture.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bali

1. What is Bali best known for?

Bali is famous for its rice fields, beaches, temples, and artsy, spiritual culture that blends nature with tradition in a unique and beautiful way.

2. What are the best things to do in Bali?

You can visit temples, hike volcanoes, explore waterfalls, relax on the beach, take a yoga class, or shop at markets full of handmade goods.

3. Is Bali a good destination for all types of travellers?

Yes! Bali is great for families, couples, solo travellers, and adventure seekers, with something to enjoy whether you like exploring or just taking it easy.

2) Raja Ampat, West Papua

Raja Ampat, a group of islands in West Papua, Indonesia, is one of the most stunning places in the country, especially for people who love the ocean.

It’s known for its crystal-clear water, colourful coral reefs, and tiny green islands that pop out of the sea like something from a dream. This area is a top spot for snorkelling and diving, with hundreds of kinds of fish and sea creatures you might not see anywhere else.

You can also enjoy peaceful boat rides between the islands, visit quiet beaches, and explore small villages where local people live simply and close to nature. Raja Ampat feels far away from busy cities, which makes it a great place to relax, slow down, and enjoy the natural world.

Whether you're swimming with fish or just sitting on a wooden deck watching the sunset, Raja Ampat is the kind of place that stays in your memory long after you leave.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Raja Ampat, West Papua

1. Why is Raja Ampat so special?

Raja Ampat is famous for having some of the richest marine life in the world, along with unspoiled islands and calm, clear waters that are perfect for underwater adventures.

2. What can you do in Raja Ampat?

You can snorkel, dive, relax on quiet beaches, kayak through lagoons, and visit small local villages to learn about life in this remote part of Indonesia.

3. Is Raja Ampat good for people who don’t dive?

Yes! Even if you don’t dive, you can still enjoy swimming, island-hopping, nature walks, and the peaceful beauty of this incredible place.

3) Yogyakarta, Java

Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is a lively city on the island of Java that’s full of culture, creativity, and tradition.

It’s best known as the gateway to Borobudur and Prambanan, two of the most important ancient temples in Indonesia, where visitors can explore centuries-old carvings and learn about the island’s rich history.

In the city itself, you’ll find batik workshops, puppet theatres, street art, and bustling markets where locals sell handmade crafts and tasty snacks. The main street, Malioboro, is perfect for walking, shopping, and trying local food from tiny stalls.

Yogyakarta also has a strong connection to the royal family, and you can visit the Kraton, a palace complex where traditions are still kept alive through music, dance, and storytelling. With its mix of old and new, quiet temples and busy streets, Yogyakarta is a great place to discover a deeper side of Indonesia that’s full of colour, heart, and history.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Yogyakarta, Java

1. What is Yogyakarta famous for?

Yogyakarta is known for its temples, traditional arts, royal palace, and strong cultural identity, making it one of the most important cultural cities in Indonesia.

2. What can you do in Yogyakarta?

You can visit Borobudur and Prambanan, explore the Kraton, shop on Malioboro Street, try local dishes, and join workshops for batik or silver-making.

3. Is Yogyakarta good for cultural travellers?

Yes! Yogyakarta is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about Indonesia’s history, watch traditional performances, and experience local life beyond the usual tourist spots.

4) Komodo National Park, Flores

Komodo National Park, in eastern Indonesia, is a one-of-a-kind destination known for its rugged islands, turquoise waters, and of course, the famous Komodo dragons—the world’s largest lizards.

The park includes a group of islands where you can go trekking to spot these powerful reptiles in their natural habitat, guided by experienced rangers. But it’s not just about the dragons—Komodo is also home to some of the most colourful coral reefs and marine life, making it a top spot for snorkelling and diving.

You can swim with manta rays, relax on Pink Beach with its soft, rosy sand, or hike up to scenic viewpoints on Padar Island for amazing photos. The area feels wild and untouched, offering both adventure and peace in nature.

Whether you’re on land or underwater, Komodo National Park is full of exciting discoveries that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Komodo National Park, Flores

1. Why is Komodo National Park so famous?

It’s best known for being the natural home of the Komodo dragon, as well as having unspoiled islands, pink beaches, and incredible underwater life.

2. What activities can you do in Komodo National Park?

You can trek to see Komodo dragons, snorkel or dive in coral-rich waters, relax on unique beaches, and hike to stunning viewpoints on the islands.

3. Is Komodo National Park safe to visit?

Yes—when you follow the guides and stay on marked paths, it’s a safe and exciting place for travellers who want to explore nature and wildlife in a totally unique setting.

5) Lombok

Lombok, an island just east of Bali, is a peaceful and scenic place known for its quiet beaches, waterfalls, and towering volcanoes.

Unlike its famous neighbour, Lombok feels more relaxed and less crowded, making it perfect for travellers who want to enjoy nature and local culture without too much noise. One of the island’s highlights is Mount Rinjani, a huge volcano with a crater lake that hikers love to explore.

Along the coast, you’ll find beautiful spots like Kuta Lombok, with soft sand and clear water, great for swimming or surfing. You can also take a short boat ride to the nearby Gili Islands, which are known for snorkelling, turtles, and car-free streets.

The local villages in Lombok are full of traditional weaving, friendly smiles, and tasty local dishes. With its mix of adventure, calm surroundings, and real island charm, Lombok is a wonderful place to explore a quieter side of Indonesia.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Lombok

1. What makes Lombok different from Bali?

Lombok is quieter and less built-up, offering more untouched nature, fewer crowds, and a chance to enjoy island life at a slower pace.

2. What can you do in Lombok?

You can hike Mount Rinjani, relax on beaches, visit waterfalls, explore local villages, or take a boat to the Gili Islands for snorkelling and sunsets.

3. Is Lombok good for both adventure and relaxing?

Yes! Whether you want to climb a volcano or just chill on the beach, Lombok offers a great mix of fun and relaxation in a beautiful setting.

6) Tana Toraja, Sulawesi

Tana Toraja, located in the highlands of South Sulawesi, is one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in Indonesia.

This region is known for its unique traditions, traditional wooden houses with boat-shaped roofs (called tongkonan), and its incredible funeral ceremonies, which are important events filled with rituals, music, and family gatherings.

The Torajan people have a deep respect for their ancestors, and you can see this in the cliffside graves, stone tombs, and guardian statues placed high in the rocks. The green hills and rice fields surrounding the villages add to the beauty of the area, and local guides are happy to show visitors around and explain the meaning behind the customs.

Walking through Toraja feels like stepping into a place where time moves differently, and every detail has a story. If you’re curious about local cultures and want to see something completely different from the usual tourist spots, Tana Toraja offers a truly unforgettable experience.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Tana Toraja, Sulawesi

1. What is Tana Toraja most famous for?

It’s best known for its unique funeral traditions, cliffside graves, and tongkonan houses, all of which reflect a deep connection to family and tradition.

2. What can you do in Tana Toraja?

You can visit traditional villages, explore ancient burial sites, walk through rice fields, and learn about Torajan culture with the help of local guides.

3. Is Tana Toraja good for cultural travellers?

Yes! It’s one of the best places in Indonesia for travellers who want to experience a living culture, full of rituals, stories, and ways of life that have been passed down for generations.

7) Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, in East Java, is one of the most amazing natural places to visit in Indonesia.

The park is famous for its dramatic landscapes filled with volcanoes, craters, and wide sandy plains that look like something from another planet. The most well-known spot is Mount Bromo, an active volcano that you can visit by walking across the Sea of Sand and climbing a set of steps to the rim.

If you wake up early, you can watch the sunrise over the volcanoes from a viewpoint at Mount Penanjakan, where the sky slowly lights up the smoke rising from Bromo and the nearby Mount Semeru, the tallest mountain on Java. The park is also home to the Tenggerese people, who live in small villages and keep their old traditions alive.

Whether you're hiking, riding a jeep through the dust, or just taking in the views, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is full of exciting adventures and stunning sights.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java

1. What is the main attraction in this national park?

The most famous spot is Mount Bromo, an active volcano where visitors can walk to the crater and see the sunrise over a dramatic volcanic landscape.

2. How do people explore the park?

You can ride a jeep across the Sea of Sand, hike to viewpoints, or walk to the crater rim, often with a local guide to help you explore safely.

3. Is Bromo Tengger Semeru good for adventure seekers?

Yes! It’s a great place for volcano lovers, hikers, and photographers, with some of the most striking views and landscapes in all of Indonesia.

8) Belitung Island, Sumatra

Belitung Island, off the coast of Sumatra in Indonesia, is a peaceful paradise known for its white sandy beaches, giant granite rocks, and crystal-clear water.

The island’s coastline is full of quiet bays and picture-perfect spots like Tanjung Tinggi Beach, where huge boulders sit along the shore, creating natural pools and fun places to explore. You can take a boat trip to nearby tiny islands, stop at a lighthouse on Lengkuas Island, and go snorkelling in calm, blue seas filled with colourful fish.

Inland, there are blue lakes, small villages, and places where you can try tasty seafood and see local art and crafts. Belitung isn’t crowded, which means it’s great for relaxing and enjoying nature without lots of noise or tourists.

With its clean beaches, clear water, and friendly local vibe, Belitung Island is perfect for travellers who want a quiet escape that still feels special and full of beauty.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Belitung Island, Sumatra

1. What makes Belitung Island special?

Belitung is loved for its amazing beaches with giant granite stones, clear water, and peaceful atmosphere—great for a calm island getaway.

2. What can you do on Belitung Island?

You can swim, snorkel, explore nearby islands by boat, visit lighthouses, and enjoy local seafood in beachside cafés.

3. Is Belitung a good place to relax?

Yes! It’s perfect for travellers who want to slow down, enjoy nature, and avoid busy tourist spots while still seeing something beautiful and unique.

9) Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi

Wakatobi, a group of islands in Southeast Sulawesi, is one of the best places in Indonesia for anyone who loves the sea.

It’s part of a protected marine park, and the underwater world here is amazing—full of bright coral reefs, colourful fish, and clear, calm water. People from all over the world come to Wakatobi to snorkel and dive, because the ocean life is so rich and easy to see, even close to the shore.

But it’s not just about what’s under the water—the islands themselves are quiet and peaceful, with friendly villages, white sand beaches, and a slow, relaxing pace of life. You can take boat trips, explore small local markets, or simply sit by the sea and enjoy the view.

If you’re looking for a place that feels natural, quiet, and full of beauty, Wakatobi is the kind of destination where you can really unwind and connect with nature.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi

1. Why is Wakatobi famous for diving?

Wakatobi is part of a huge marine park with some of the best coral reefs in the world, making it a top destination for divers and snorkellers of all levels.

2. What else can you do in Wakatobi?

Besides diving, you can relax on quiet beaches, visit traditional villages, take island boat trips, and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings.

3. Is Wakatobi good for a quiet holiday?

Yes! Wakatobi is perfect if you want to escape the crowds, enjoy the sea, and spend time in a calm, beautiful place with lots of nature all around.

10) Karimunjawa Islands, Central Java

Karimunjawa Islands, off the coast of Central Java, are a quiet and beautiful group of tropical islands that feel like a hidden paradise in Indonesia.

These islands are known for their white sandy beaches, calm blue sea, and colourful coral reefs, making them a perfect spot for snorkelling, swimming, or just relaxing under a palm tree. The main island has small villages, local homestays, and friendly people who welcome visitors with a smile.

You can take a boat to explore nearby islands, stop at sandbanks in the middle of the sea, or enjoy fresh seafood grilled right on the beach. The pace of life here is slow, with no big crowds or busy streets—just nature, sunshine, and peaceful views.

Whether you're exploring underwater or simply enjoying the quiet, the Karimunjawa Islands are a great place to unwind and experience island life at its most simple and beautiful.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Karimunjawa Islands, Central Java

1. What are the Karimunjawa Islands known for?

They’re known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and peaceful atmosphere, far away from crowded tourist spots.

2. What can you do on the islands?

You can snorkel, visit small islands by boat, enjoy beach picnics, walk through villages, and relax in a quiet, natural setting.

3. Is Karimunjawa good for a peaceful beach holiday?

Yes! It’s the perfect place for travellers who want a simple, calm island experience with stunning views and clear, warm water.

There you have it! These are 10 of the best places located in Indonesia, perfect for your next adventure in April! Whether you plan to do a road trip around Indonesia in April or are visiting for a long weekend, you should definitely check out some of these places!

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!