School holidays are often a highly anticipated time to unwind and create beautiful memories with family. However, beyond recreation and relaxation, vacations can also be a powerful educational tool to instill and strengthen nationalism in children. Visiting destinations rich in history, culture, and Indonesia’s natural beauty can help children develop a deeper appreciation for our country’s wealth and diversity.
Here are 4 recommended family vacation destinations that are not only fun but can also strengthen a child’s love for their country:
1. Mount Bromo, East Java: Enjoying Nature’s Charm
At Mount Bromo, you can take your family to witness the iconic sunrise from Penanjakan, with the breathtaking backdrop of a caldera, sea of sand, and the silhouette of Mount Semeru. Continue the journey by crossing the vast desert and climbing the stairs to the smoking Bromo Crater. These areas are perfect for taking photos, capturing the stunning natural scenery and unforgettable memories. Additionally, kids can also engage in other activities like horse riding. This adventurous experience can foster a sense of wonder toward Indonesia’s extraordinary geological beauty.
You can purchase Bromo tickets for Rp 54,000/person on weekdays and Rp 79,000/person on holidays. If you bring a private vehicle, there’s an additional fee of Rp 10,000 for four-wheeled vehicles and Rp 5,000 for two-wheeled vehicles. However, automatic transmission two-wheeled vehicles are not recommended, and non-4WD four-wheeled vehicles are required to rent a Jeep when entering the Mount Bromo area. Jeep rental prices start from Rp 600,000 to Rp 1,450,000, depending on the location and package.
2. Komodo National Park, NTT: Rare Animal Conservation and Marine Wonders
Take your family to Rinca Island or Komodo Island to see the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, directly in its natural habitat, guided by the professional rangers. After that, visit the famous Pink Beach for snorkeling and witness the breathtaking beauty of the coral reefs and diverse marine life. This trip will instill awareness in children about the importance of conserving rare animals and preserving Indonesia’s rich marine natural wealth. It will also cultivate a sense of national pride in the Indonesia’s unique natural treasures.
Day tour packages to Komodo Island start from around Rp 1,300,000/person. Multi-day tours with accommodation and additional activities like snorkeling and Pink Beach visits are also available.
3. Borobudur Temple, Central Java: Exploring Philosophy and Historical Grandeur
Borobudur Temple, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, is not just a tourist site but also a profound center for historical, artistic, and spiritual learning. Visiting Borobudur with family offers an unforgettable experience that can foster admiration for the greatness of Indonesia’s ancestors and enrich historical understanding. Take your children to explore the temple which narrates ancient teachings and life, and understand the philosophy of life stages depicted in the temple’s structure. The sunrise moment at Borobudur can also be a magical spiritual experience.
There are 2 types of Borobudur Temple entrance tickets: regular tickets without going up the temple for Rp 50,000 for adults and Rp 25,000 for children, and tickets to go up Borobudur Temple for Rp 120,000 for adults and Rp 75,000 for children. Tickets can be purchased through the official website: ticketcandi.borobudurpark.com.
4. Lake Toba & Samosir, North Sumatra: Geological Wonders and Batak Culture
Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world, and in its center lies Samosir Island. You can rent a boat to explore the lake and stop by traditional villages on Samosir such as Tomok or Tuk Tuk. There, children can see Batak traditional houses, King Sidabutar’s Tomb, or even learn about Tor-Tor dance and play traditional Batak musical instruments. The lake’s natural grandeur, now part of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network, will foster awe for Indonesia’s natural wonders, while the bold Batak culture will offer children with a deep introduction to one of the rich cultural identities in the Nusantara archipelago.
Visiting Lake Toba is free of charge. However, if you wish to visit Samosir Island, you can take a ferry for Rp 10,000/person, with additional Rp 15,000 to Rp 25,000 for two-wheeled vehicles and Rp 170,000 for four-wheeled vehicles.
Family vacations are not just about having fun, but also about creating meaningful memories and learning momments that will shape a child’s character. By choosing destinations that introduce them to Indonesia’s history, culture, and natural beauty, families can nurture a genuine love for the country – built not just through words, but through real experiences and unforgettable emotional bonds.
REFERENCES
- Explorebromo.com. (2020). Harga Sewa Jeep Wisata Bromo. Retrieved June 20, 2025, from https://www.explorebromo.com/2020/08/harga-sewa-jeep-wisata-bromo.html
- Explorebromo.com. (2025). Harga Tiket Masuk Gunung Bromo untuk Wisatawan Domestik dan Mancanegara. Retrieved June 20, 2025, from https://www.explorebromo.com/2019/02/tiket-wisata-gunung-bromo.html
- greatkomodo. (2024). Shared Full Day Trip with Speed Boat: Padar Island, Pink Beach …. Retrieved June 20, 2025, from https://www.greatkomodo-tour.com/join-full-day-trip-padar-island-pink-beach-komodo-island-taka-makasar-manta-point-and-kanawa-island/
Sari, K. (2023). Jadwal dan Harga Tiket Penyebarangan Danau Toba Ambarita-Ajibata Maret 2023. Detik.com. Retrieved June 20, 2025, from https://www.detik.com/sumut/bisnis/d-6600285/jadwal-dan-harga-tiket-penyebarangan-danau-tobaambarita-ajibata-maret-2023
