How to Enjoy Your First Trip to Indonesia: Best Inter-Island Transportation Tips!

Essential app in Indonesia: Gojek is a versatile tool that lets you ride buses in Bali, hail cars and motorbikes across various islands, and even pay by scanning codes at convenience stores.

First, it’s important to understand that the following islands are similar to different provinces in China:
Java, Bali, Nusa Penida, Lombok, and Komodo Island are all popular tourist destinations.
🌋Java: This island is home to major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Semarang, Banyuwangi, Malang, and Jember.

The iconic twin volcanoes, Ijen and Bromo, are located here. You can reach these stunning natural wonders by train or car. From Banyuwangi, you can head to Bromo, from Malang to the breathtaking Savu Waterfall, and from Jember to the awe-inspiring Ijen crater.
🚢From Banyuwangi, take a boat to Gilimanuk on Bali, then transfer to a car to explore the vibrant cities of Ubud or Kuta.

🏄🏻‍♀️Bali and its affiliated islands (Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan): Discover the beauty of Denpasar, Kuta, and Ubud, and marvel at the majestic Mount Agung. 🌋
✈️If you fly directly to Bali, take a bus from Denpasar airport to Kuta or Ubud. After enjoying the sights, head to the pier and catch a boat to the enchanting Nusa Penida.

🏝️🚢: Nusa Penida has four piers. Upon arrival, rent a motorcycle, hail a car on the roadside, or hire a private car. If you choose to take a car, always have small change ready and agree on the price beforehand. If the driver asks for more upon arrival, stick to the agreed amount and firmly state your case before leaving.

There is no public transportation on this island, so planning your transportation in advance will save you money. It’s not recommended to join a tour from Bali, as you’ll likely end up rushing through attractions under the scorching sun with daredevil drivers.
🏖️🤿Lombok and its affiliated Gili Islands: Explore Mataram, Senggigi, and the idyllic Gili A-M-T, and don’t miss the magnificent Mount Rinjani.

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There is a speedboat from Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands, costing 200-300k, but it’s unreliable, running only once a day. If unavailable, return to Bali and take a boat. The Gili Islands are small, with boats available daily from Lombok. There are also 24-hour public ferries from Bali to Lombok.
To Lombok 🚢 Komodo Island: Part of the Komodo National Park, this island is famous for its Komodo dragons and stunning pink beaches.