Where to Stay

Tip: Book your surf camp before your ferry — most arrange the port pickup for you.

Base yourself in Tuk Tuk or Tomok on Samosir Island, reached by ferry from Parapat — the most popular and scenic lakeside strip, walkable and dotted with guesthouses and lakeview cafes.

Tip: Stay on the east side for nightlife, the west/south side for quiet sunsets.

Stay the night before your trek in Sembalun or Senaru village — whichever matches your starting route. Most treks are 2–3 day/night packages with camping on the mountain itself.

On the mountain: tents and gear are provided by your registered trekking operator — camping is the only option above the trailhead.

Most visitors day-trip from Kuta Lombok (about 1 hour away) rather than staying at the beach itself, since Sekaroh has very limited lodging.

No lodging on Padar itself — nearly everyone bases in Labuan Bajo and visits on a day trip or multi-day liveaboard.

The signature experience here: an overnight stay inside one of the seven traditional Mbaru Niang (conical communal houses), sleeping on mats on the wooden floor, with meals prepared by the villagers.

There's only one accommodation option — the village itself, run communally. Book your visit and overnight stay through the village's official reservation system (often via your Labuan Bajo guide or driver).

Bring a warm layer — nights at 1,100m get cool, and there's no electricity after dark.

Stay in Moni, the small village at the foot of the volcano — nearly everyone bases here for the pre-dawn drive up to the crater rim.

Many visit as a day trip from Bali, but staying 1–2 nights avoids the crowded morning boat rush at the main viewpoints.

Stay in Cemoro Lawang, the village right on the crater rim — closest to the jeep departure point for the 2–3 AM sunrise convoy.

Book a room with a view or arrive the evening before — pre-dawn departures leave little room for a long drive first.

Most stay in Yogyakarta city, central to both temples and Yogyakarta's culture, food, and batik shopping scene. A few boutique hotels sit right near Borobudur itself for a sunrise view without the early drive.

Overnight stays are in a Baduy Luar family home — simple bamboo houses, sleeping on mats, no electricity or modern amenities inside Baduy territory.

Most travelers arrange this through a local guide or organized tour rather than booking directly, since there's no formal listing system.

Bring cash, a flashlight, and modest clothing — no soap, shampoo, or electronics are used inside the village out of respect for local custom.

Base in Rantepao, the region's main town — closest to the burial sites, markets, and highland villages.

Stay directly on Derawan Island for the easiest access to diving and snorkeling — Maratua and Sangalaki are quieter alternatives nearby.

Options are limited but characterful — several stays are in restored colonial-era spice trader houses, within walking distance of Fort Belgica.

Book accommodation first — many hosts also handle the hard-to-get flight or ferry tickets for you.

Two very different ways to stay: a local homestay (simple bamboo huts on islands like Kri, Gam, Arborek, or Mansuar, run by Papuan families, meals included) or a dive resort (more comfort, AC, hot water, professional dive operations).

Kri, Gam, and Mansuar islands sit closest to the best dive sites in central Raja Ampat — a good base for either budget.