Things To Do
in Bogor
Bogor is a verdant city just southeast of Jakarta, set in a lush highland valley. Its temperate climate, thanks to its elevation, offers a welcome respite from the capital's heat. The city is famed for the Bogor Botanical Gardens, rain-soaked markets, and a mix of colonial-era architecture and modern cafes.
It's a convenient base for day trips to tea plantations in the Puncak region and waterfalls in the surrounding hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through the expansive Bogor Botanical Gardens, home to over 15,000 plant species. As the sun rises, the gardens come alive with the sound of chirping birds and the fragrance of blooming flowers. Don't forget to take a moment to admire the iconic Presidential Palace that borders the gardens.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, delve deeper into the gardens by visiting the Orchid greenhouse, showcasing a stunning array of orchids and exotic plants. Spend some time relaxing by the lake, where you can rent a small boat to paddle around and take in the beauty of your surroundings. As the afternoon sun begins to set, capture stunning photographs of the lush landscapes that Bogor is famous for.
As night falls, head to the local night market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with the aroma of traditional Indonesian street food. Savor local delicacies such as sate, fried tofu, and sweet martabak while mingling with locals and other travelers. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the lit-up gardens, enjoying the serene ambiance.
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring dishes like Nasi Goreng or Bubur Ayam. Engage with the friendly locals as they share stories about their favorite dishes and the rich culinary heritage of the area. After breakfast, visit the Bogor Culinary Center to learn about local ingredients and spices.
Join a cooking class where you'll prepare authentic Indonesian dishes using fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. Experience the joy of cooking while learning techniques passed down through generations. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by sharing a meal with fellow participants, exchanging stories and laughter.
End your culinary adventure with a visit to a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy a stunning view of Bogor while sampling a fusion of traditional and modern Indonesian cuisine. Sip on refreshing local beverages as you reflect on your day’s experiences. The evening sky will provide a beautiful backdrop as you wind down your night with delightful conversations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short trip) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🍜Three-course meal for two | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to nature retreats and tea plantations near Jakarta
- Pleasant year-round temperatures and lush scenery
- Affordable food and easy transport within Bogor city
- Traffic congestion during peak hours and weekends
- Heavy rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- Limited nightlife compared to Jakarta
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Tolong" - Please
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand
- "Rekomendasi tempat makan yang enak?" - Any good places to eat?
Places to Visit in Bogor
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic gardens with lotus ponds, historic glasshouses, and lush greenery—great for wide landscapes and macro shots.
Colonial-era architecture and formal grounds; best captured from public park areas around the palace.
Rolling green hills and terraced tea fields with dramatic sunrise and misty cloudscapes.
A scenic waterfall along forest trails; mist, rocks, and lush backdrop for dynamic images.
Food in Bogor
Bogor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef (or sometimes pork) satay with a sweet-savory soy glaze; best enjoyed with steamed rice and chili sauce at a street stall.
Must-Try!
A pickled vegetable or fruit salad tossed with a tangy peanut-sugar dressing; refreshing and tangy.
A coconut-based noodle soup with lemongrass, herbs, and a choice of shrimp or chicken.
Steamed rice wrapped in banana leaf served with fried chicken and vegetables for a comforting meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market hub for fresh fruit (rambutan, salak), vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling local flavors.
A string of stalls offering fried snacks, grilled skewers, and tropical fruits; ideal for late-afternoon bites.
Morning market with produce, prepared foods, and local specialties; perfect for authentic day-to-day eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet elders with politeness; remove shoes when entering homes or some temples; avoid touching someone's head.
Dress modestly in temples and sacred sites; markets are lively but modest clothing is appreciated; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bogor
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and hotels; service charge may be included; small tips for taxi drivers or guides are common but not expected.
Cash (IDR) is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards and popular digital wallets (e.g., Gojek, OVO).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Most days are clear and comfortable for outdoor activities; mornings can be cool, and some trails are drier and easier to navigate.
Frequent rain and higher humidity; plan for waterproof gear and flexible plans to avoid downpours.
Bogor at Night
Hiking in Bogor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned park near Bogor with forest trails, diverse flora and a challenging summit hike.
Accessible waterfall hike from the Cibinong/Cisarua area; easy-to-moderate hike through forest.
Airports
How to reach Bogor by plane.
Jakarta's primary international gateway; ~60-90 minutes drive from central Bogor (depending on traffic)
Jakarta's smaller airport; useful for domestic flights and closer than CGK under some routes
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents come from Sundanese and Javanese backgrounds, with a mix of smaller ethnic groups including Chinese Indonesians and others.
A sizeable student and family population due to universities and schools in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Indonesian culture; many courts and clubs in Bogor.
Common among locals; informal matches and leagues in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bogor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian options; look for gado-gado, sate jamur (mushroom satay), and vegetable dishes; ask for no meat or fish; ensure sauces do not include meat stock.