Choosing between Indonesia and Thailand for travel is hard. Both these Southeast Asian gems boast a range of experiences that cater to different tastes, from bustling city life to serene beachside escapes. So is it even possible to settle this debate?
Yes, after traveling in Thailand and Indonesia for 14 years, and even living in Bali and Lombok, I have an idea of which one is my favorite. But I want to do a side-by-side comparison so you can make up your own mind.
So in this article, I’ll compare Indonesia vs. Thailand looking at the cost of travel, beaches, top attractions, food, accommodation, nature, wildlife and safety.
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Article overview
- Indonesia vs. Thailand
- Let the weather decide
- Culture and temples
- Indonesia vs Thailand: Nature
- Which country has the best beaches?
- Indonesia vs Thailand: Wildlife
- Indonesia vs. Thailand: Snorkeling & diving
- Is Indonesian or Thai food better?
- Indonesia vs. Thailand: Accommodation
- Cost of travel in Indonesia vs Thailand
- How easy is it to get around?
- Which country is safer?
- Conclusion
- More popular guides
Indonesia vs. Thailand
Indonesia and Thailand share many drawcards such as spectacular beaches, exotic wildlife, palm tree jungles and turquoise water. But the two countries are also very different in many ways.
Thailand was the first Southeast Asian country I ever heard of when some of my friends in the 5th grade visited with their families. Let’s just say I was jealous and couldn’t wait until it was my turn.
Little did I know that I would visit Thailand 10 years later. My then boyfriend suggested we also visit Bali during our around-the-world trip, and I’m so grateful for that. I got to experience the Island of Gods before Instagram and before it skyrocketed into popularity.
Bali and Lombok have since become like a second home to me. I have visited around 15 times, and Thailand isn’t far behind. So let’s begin with a quick overview of both countries.
Indonesian archipelago
Indonesia’s geography is defined by its expansive archipelago, consisting of over 17,000 islands. It stretches between two continents, Asia and Oceania, and spans more than 5,000 kilometers east to west. This gives Indonesia a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to volcanic landscapes.
✅ Still great value for money
✅ Variety in culture, nature and wildlife
✅ Excellent snorkeling, diving and surfing
✅ Easy to get off the beaten path, many islands are waiting to be explored
❌ Unsafe planes and ferries
❌ Less developed infrastructure
❌ Waste management issues
❌ Bali is getting too crowded with lots of focus on commercial Instagram spots
Mainland and islands of Thailand
In contrast, Thailand combines both a mainland section connected to the Asian continent and over 1,400 islands in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Its geography includes extensive coastlines, a central plain known as the Rice Bowl of Asia, and the mountainous North.
✅ It’s easy to get around
✅ Cosmopolitan big cities and paradise islands
✅ Big focus on street food, easy-to-eat healthy
✅ Beautiful temples and colorful culture
❌ Tiger and elephant tourism
❌ Still great value, but has become more expensive
❌ Many places feel very touristy
❌ Lacks the adventurous vibe of Indonesia
Key takeaways
In short, Indonesia is the winner for me. You should go to Indonesia if you’re looking for incredible nature, majestic temples, surfing, snorkeling or diving.
Indonesia is great for both off-the-beaten-path adventures and relaxing beach holidays. There are still so many islands to explore.
If you’re all about boho accommodation, hip Instagram cafés and trendy boutiques, then Bali is the place for you. Be sure to check out my popular 2-week Bali itinerary.
I think you should choose Thailand if you want a relaxing holiday with time on the beach, shopping and nightlife. Most places in Thailand are easy to access, you have more options for transportation and the infrastructure is better developed.
Let the weather decide
If you have set vacation times, you should let the weather decide between Indonesia and Thailand. Both countries offer tropical climates but with distinctly different seasons.
Indonesia has the best weather from May to September and Thailand from November to February.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Indonesia is located on the equator, leading to a generally warm and tropical climate year-round with just two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season traditionally runs from May to September, offering less rainfall and lower humidity. This period is commonly considered the best time to visit Indonesia for favorable weather conditions. However, there are regional exceptions such as Maluku and Raja Ampat.
My personal favorite time to visit Bali and Indonesia is from February to April, when it’s still green after the rainy season, with mostly clear weather but fewer tourists.
- Dry Season (May – September): Ideal for beach activities and exploring.
- Rainy Season (October – April): Higher humidity and rainfall; suitable for indoor and cultural experiences.
Best time to visit Thailand
Thailand, too, has a tropical climate but it’s marked by three distinct seasons. The cool season, lasting from November to February, is generally the most comfortable time to visit, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity levels.
I have visited Thailand several times during the rainy season, and I’ve never experienced more than a few days of rainfall.
- Cool Season (November – February): Pleasant weather, great for outdoor sightseeing and festivals.
- Hot Season (March – May): Higher temperatures, perfect for island visits and water activities.
- Rainy Season (June – October): Intermittent showers with lush landscapes; ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Culture and temples
Indonesia’s cultural landscape is incredibly diverse, with Islam as the main religion and influences from Hinduism, Buddhism and European colonialism.
Temples in Indonesia are primarily influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple in Central Java, is famous for its bell-shaped stupas and detailed relief panels. Prambanan, Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex, is celebrated for its tall and imposing architecture.
I especially love the magical temples of Bali, such as my favorite Pura Gunung Kawi in Ubud and the popular Pura Lempuyang in East Bali. You will also encounter colorful funeral processions, festivals, ceremonies for every occasion and daily offerings.
Thai culture is deeply influenced by Buddhism, which is reflected in the country’s numerous temples, festivals, and the prominent practice of merit-making. The emphasis on sanuk (fun) and kreng jai (consideration for others) is evident in their customs. Thailand is the land of smiles after all.
Thai temples, or “wats”, are known for their steeply pitched roofs, ornate and colorful decorations, and often gold-encrusted facades. The Royal Palaces of Bangkok and the temples of Chiang Mai are among the most popular. The style often varies from region to region, with Lanna-style temples in the north and Khmer-influenced designs in the east.
🏆 In terms of Indonesia vs. Thailand for culture and temples, Indonesia is the winner for me. Even though I love the colors of Thailand, Indonesia feels ancient and spiritual, a magic that can’t be put into words.
Indonesia vs Thailand: Nature
When it comes to nature, Indonesia and Thailand both offer incredible stunning landscapes. While Indonesia gives me the feeling of boundless exploration, Thailand offers a more compact and accessible experience.
Indonesia is known for its volcanic landscapes, rich marine biodiversity, thick jungles, the iconic rice terraces of Bali, and even a snowcapped peak called Puncak Jaya.
Indonesia is located in the Ring of Fire and has more active volcanoes than any other country. So it’s no surprise that crater hikes are one of the most popular activities in Indonesia, with Mount Batur in Indonesia often considered the easiest hike.
Thailand, on the other hand, captivates with its lush mountainous regions in the north and the islands and crystal-clear waters of the south. National parks, such as KaengKrachan and Khao Sok, offer a chance to experience waterfalls and trekking trails.
🏆 For me, Indonesia is the winner again, but it all depends on what kind of holiday you’re after.
Which country has the best beaches?
🏆 Both Indonesia and Thailand boast equally beautiful beaches, so I’m calling this category a draw.
The difference is that you can easily find mile-long white sand beaches that you can have all to yourself in Indonesia. When I was staying at Whales and Waves Resort in Sumbawa, I never met another person on the beach. In Thailand, however, most of the beautiful beaches are crowded.
On the other hand, Thailand’s Andaman Sea and Gulf Coast beaches are generally calmer, making them suitable for water sports and family-friendly activities. In Indonesia, the beaches are often more rugged, with steep cliffs and waves perfect for surfing.
Best beaches in Indonesia
- Tanjung Bira Beach: Nestled on the southern tip of Sulawesi Island, Tanjung Bira Beach mesmerizes visitors with its stretches of soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and stunning turquoise waters.
- Pink Beach (Pantai Merah): Named for its unique pink sand, Pink Beach in Komodo National Park offers stunning vistas of turquoise waters, rugged hills, and vibrant coral reefs.
- Ngurtafur Beach: A paradise-like white-sand beach and sandbar stretching 2 kilometers into the ocean from Warbal Island in Southeast Maluku.
- Tanjung Aan Beach: My favorite beach in Lombok consists of two white sand coves lined by palm trees and rustic warungs.
Best beaches in Thailand
- Railay Beach: Renowned for its towering limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and soft white sand, Railay is one of the best tours from Krabi.
- Maya Bay: Made famous by the movie “The Beach,” Maya Bay is a picturesque cove on Koh Phi Phi Leh.
- Koh Nang Yuan: Just off the coast of Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is an idyllic trio of tiny islands connected by sandbars surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.
- Koh Lipe: Known as the “Maldives of Thailand,” Koh Lipe boasts pristine beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life. Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach are particularly popular for their breathtaking views.
- Phra Nang Beach: Located in Krabi, Phra Nang Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and golden sands.
Indonesia vs Thailand: Wildlife
Indonesia is home to a multitude of primates, including orangutans, langurs, macaques and gibbons. You will see them on every island, keep your valuables hidden from cheeky long-tailed Macaque monkeys in Bali.
While Thailand has its fair share of primates, including macaques and langurs, no wild orangutans exist.
Thailand and Indonesia both have populations of wild tigers and elephants. Thailand is home to the Indian elephant, while Indonesia has the smaller and critically endangered Sumatran elephant, both sub-species of the Asian elephant.
In Thailand, the Indochinese tiger can be found in the country’s remote forests, with conservation efforts such as those in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary. Similarly, in Indonesia, the critically endangered Sumatran tiger roams the dense lowland and montane rainforest mainly on the island of Sumatra.
🏆 In this category there’s a clear winner. Indonesia is not only the best place for wildlife in Southeast Asia, but one of the best in the entire world. Here are just some of the examples of animals you can see in Indonesia:
- Sumatra: Orangutans, Sumatran tigers, clouded leopards, rhinos and elephants.
- Borneo: Pygmy elephants, orangutans and proboscis monkeys.
- Java: Javan leopards, rhinos, mangrove cats, deer, buffalo, peacocks.
- Papua: Bird-of-paradise, tree kangaroos.
- Sumbawa: Whale sharks, wild horses, various primates.
- Sumba: Wild horses.
- Raja Ampat: Bird-of-paradise, Coconut crab, Dugong, Green Sea turtles.
- Komodo National Park: Komodo Dragons.
Indonesia vs. Thailand: Snorkeling & diving
When speaking of aquatic adventures, let’s take a closer look. Thailand boasts beautiful and easily accessible spots for snorkeling and diving, but not on the scale of Indonesia.
Indonesia forms part of the Coral Triangle with incredible marine life. Raja Ampat is home to the world’s highest marine biodiversity, with around 600 types of corals, more than 1,000 types of coral fish and 700 types of mollusks.
But you don’t have to travel that far. In the waters surrounding the Nusa Islands, just off the coast of Bali, you can experience colorful coral, turtles, dolphins, Manta Rays and even the elusive Mola Mola. I usually recommend Nusa Penida for snorkeling, you can easily go there on a day trip from Bali.
On the other hand, if you are planning to get your PADI certification, Thailand is probably a cheaper place to do so. Thailand’s best diving is at Hin Daeng & Hin Muang, the islands around Koh Haa and Koh Bida.
🏆 In the race of Indonesia vs. Thailand, Indo wins again.
Is Indonesian or Thai food better?
Okay, so this one is almost impossible for me to decide. As a foodie, I love both cuisines, and I don’t think Indonesian food gets enough credit on the world stage.
Rice is the staple food in Indonesia, often served with a variety of side dishes made of meat, fish, vegetables, and legumes. Indonesian food also includes various sambals, a spicy chili-based condiment ranging from mild to extremely hot.
Some of my favorite Indonesian dishes include Mie Goreng (you have to try this recipe), Nasi Campur, Rendang, Gado Gado and Sate (satay). I also find seafood to often be fresher and cheaper in Indo.
But we all know and love Thai food, right? Signature dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, curries and, of course, the mango sticky rice. With its fresh ingredients and balance of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy flavors, you can’t go wrong.
I also love the street food culture in Thailand, there are just so many fun things to taste. Street food tours and cooking classes are some of my favorite things to do in Bangkok.
🏆 I’m giving the food category to Thailand, but please try Indonesian food if you ever have the chance!
Indonesia vs. Thailand: Accommodation
Both countries have long been favorites among budget backpackers from all over the world. I have stayed on a mattress in a warung on Balagan Beach in Bali, and I have slept on a bamboo cot in the Phi Phi Islands.
If you had asked me ten years ago, I would have given the win to Thailand, however, with Indonesia’s popularity skyrocketing in recent years, so have the accommodation options.
In Indonesia, you will find absolutely anything. From mats on the floor close to popular surf spots and quirky treehouses to big resorts and the most spectacular private villas.
For a more local experience, look for “homestays” that allow you to live with local families. North and East Bali do these kinds of stays very well. On the luxury side of things, my all-time favorite places to stay are Goya Boutique Resort in Ubud and The Luxe Bali in Uluwatu.
Thailand’s accommodation options are equally as diverse, and they do the $10 a night hostels very well. In Bangkok, my absolute favorite is The Siam Hotel, it doesn’t get much better than this modern colonial gem! The unique boutique experiences have also come a long way in recent years, yet I still feel Indonesia inches in front.
🏆 Because of Bali’s incredible accommodation options, I’m giving the overall win to Indo.
Which country has the best retreats?
When on the topic of accommodation, why not combine it with wellness and activities? I love retreats, there’s no better way to invest in yourself. Wellness, surfing, yoga, detox, you name it. It is such a great place to meet like-minded people while becoming a better version of yourself.
Bali has some of the best surfing and yoga retreats in the world, while Thailand is big on rejuvenation. Both offer retreats in every price range, but I do think Thailand takes the win here with a better selection of retreat venues.
I book all my retreats through Tripaneer, click below to check out their offerings.
Cost of travel in Indonesia vs Thailand
As mentioned above, both Thailand and Indonesia are relatively affordable destinations. You can stay in a beautiful 4-star hotel on the beach in Bali for the same price as a campground in Norway. And eat out for about a week in Thailand for the same price as a restaurant visit in Los Angeles.
Yes really, I’ve done it. Of course, there are more expensive places in Indonesia and Thailand too. So if you’re loaded, you won’t have any trouble spending your money.
But overall, Thailand tends to be slightly more expensive than Indonesia, especially for accommodation and transportation. I just compared 5-star resorts in Lombok with similar 5-star resorts on Koh Samui, and the resorts in Thailand cost 15-20% more.
The only exception is that domestic flights in Thailand are cheaper and much more readily available.
On average, here’s what I usually spend per day in Indonesia. I have written about this in more detail in my two-week Bali budget.
- Accommodation: I spent $20 to $50 per night for 4-star hotels.
- Food: Local meals typically cost around $2 to $5.
- Transportation: Scooter rental $5 per day, private driver $50+ per day.
- Activities: Entrance fees for attractions are usually under $10, and organized tour tours are anywhere from $20 to $500.
Thailand’s travel costs are slightly higher but still affordable. My expenses in Thailand looked something like this:
- Accommodation: Hostels start around $10 per night, I spent between $30 and $70.
- Food: Street food can be as cheap as $1 to $5, with restaurant meals averaging $5 to $20.
- Transportation: Scooter rentals are around $8 to $15 per day, and taxis or tuk-tuks have minimum fares starting at about $1. Private driver $120+.
- Activities: Temple visits often have a small donation of $1 to $3, whereas guided tours start at around $30 and can go upwards for premium experiences.
🏆 Indonesia is the winner of the travel cost category, it tends to be just that little bit more affordable.
How easy is it to get around?
In Indonesia, the archipelago’s geography means I often rely on domestic flights to move between islands efficiently. The most prominent airlines include Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and AirAsia. Ferries and fast boats are also common for travel between islands such as Bali to Lombok.
On larger islands like Java and Sumatra, train services are an option for land travel. In Bali, public transportation is non-existent, but it’s easy to rent a scooter and private drivers are common.
For short distances on most islands, I use a range of options from scooters, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab, to traditional bajaj (auto-rickshaws) and ojeks (motorcycle taxis).
Thailand’s transportation infrastructure is relatively developed, with Bangkok serving as a hub for travel across the country. I prefer to use domestic airlines such as Thai Airways and AirAsia for longer distances or take advantage of the extensive bus network for a cost-effective solution.
Bangkok has a modern and efficient mass transit system, including the BTS Skytrain and the MRT Subway, which are ideal for avoiding traffic.
Outside the capital, I find that buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks are the most common ways to get around. For regional travel, the State Railway of Thailand offers convenient train services, especially scenic routes to the Northern regions. Here’s a breakdown:
- Domestic flights for speed and convenience
- Buses for affordability
- BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway in Bangkok
- Scooter, taxi, Tuk-Tuk and Grab for local trips
- Trains for longer journeys
- Ferries, speed boats and long-tail boats to access the islands.
🏆 Infrastructure in Thailand is more developed and you generally have more options for getting around, so Thailand takes the win.
Which country is safer?
As a solo female traveler, I find that I still get a lot of attention in more remote places in Indonesia. Everyone wants a photo with the super pale girl. Above you can see what it looked like when I first came to Lombok 8+ years ago. I have never experienced this in Thailand.
In Indonesia, you should also be mindful of petty crime, especially in tourist hotspots like Bali and Jakarta. According to several different crime reports, petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is common, while violent crime rates are relatively low.
My phone was stolen by a gang of children in Legian, Bali even though my small crossbody bag was closed with a zipper that barely worked and I had my hand over the bag. So these pickpockets are skilled!
Additionally, Indonesia is situated in the “Ring of Fire,” an area with a high potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. During the rainy season, mudslides and flooding are also common.
Thailand, on the other hand, generally has a reputation for being safe for tourists. However, similar to Indonesia, petty theft and scams can occur, particularly in very touristy areas, like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. Floods are also common in Thailand during the monsoon season.
🏆 Thailand takes the win in the safety category.
Conclusion
As you already know, I personally prefer Indonesia to Thailand. But as always, the choice depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Indonesia offers a vast archipelago rich in diverse cultures and nature, from volcanoes to tropical rainforests. Notable for its world-class surf spots and rich marine biodiversity, it’s a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.
In contrast, Thailand presents a blend of bustling city life, beaches, culinary delights and thriving nightlife. Its well-developed tourism infrastructure means a more structured and comfortable travel experience.
🏆 Nature: Indonesia
🏆 Wildlife: Indonesia
🏆 Food: Thailand
🏆 Cost of travel: Indonesia
🏆 Safety for travelers: Thailand
🏆 Beaches: It’s a tie
🏆 Attractions: Indonesia
🏆 Transportation: Thailand
🏆 Accommodation: Indonesia (but it’s close)
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