Indonesia may be best known for Bali, but a new travel-trend outlook suggests that the country’s appeal extends far beyond the island.
In its late-September 2026 report, Euro News Travel explored the theme “Indonesia, So Much More Than Bali,” turning attention to destinations that remain less crowded yet offer equally compelling experiences.
This does not mean Bali has lost its charm. Instead, the report reflects a growing interest in discovering other parts of Indonesia, where travellers can find different landscapes, cultures, and travel experiences beyond the island’s established tourism hubs.
Why Travellers Are Looking Beyond Bali
Euro News Travel noted several challenges facing Bali’s tourism sector, including rising accommodation and food prices, as well as concerns about how rapid development in popular areas may affect local businesses.
These issues have sparked a wider conversation about how a destination can continue to grow without losing the character that made it attractive in the first place.
For travellers seeking a change of pace, Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara is presented as a natural next stop. The island offers beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and hiking routes, including the trail to Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and mountain.
Nature, Wildlife, and Marine Escapes
For those drawn to nature and wildlife, Komodo National Park offers another distinctive experience. The UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its Komodo dragons, island landscapes, and rich wildlife, including birds, deer, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Raja Ampat, located in Southwest Papua, is highlighted for travellers seeking a more remote escape. The archipelago is celebrated for its exceptional marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, clear waters, and hundreds of jungle-covered islands.
Together, these destinations show the breadth of Indonesia’s natural attractions, from conservation areas and volcanic landscapes to some of the world’s richest marine environments.
A New Approach to Staying
The trend is also expected to extend beyond famous islands and into smaller cities and lesser-known destinations. Euro News Travel cited Skift research showing that 42% of travellers actively avoid overcrowded places and prefer more relaxed, slower-paced holidays.
Social media is expected to play a role in this shift by introducing travellers to places that have not yet become mainstream. As more people seek authentic and less crowded experiences, destinations that were previously overlooked may gain greater visibility.
The way travellers choose accommodation may also change. Rather than prioritizing familiar luxury facilities, more visitors are expected to look for stays that offer a distinctive sense of place and a more authentic local experience.
The outlook suggests that Indonesia’s tourism potential lies in its diversity. Bali will continue to hold its own appeal, but Lombok, Komodo, Raja Ampat, and many other regions can offer travellers a different way to experience the archipelago.
Ultimately, this variety may become one of Indonesia’s greatest strengths: allowing the country to welcome visitors seeking everything from beach holidays and mountain adventures to marine exploration and quieter, more immersive journeys.
Sources: RRI
