Jakarta tours

Things to do in Jakarta

Welcome to Jakarta, where the city seems to have a life all its own, buzzing and evolving at every corner. As you wander through its lively streets, the sizzle of satay from street vendors will tempt you, blending seamlessly with the swift pace of modern city life. A tour here, led by a local guide, turns this vast urban sprawl into something more intimate, almost like a personal escapade. You'll find yourself walking through the history of Old Batavia, where each step seems to echo tales from a bygone era. It's not just about seeing the sights; it's about experiencing them in a way that only a local can reveal. And when it comes to food, Jakarta doesn’t just offer a meal—it offers a journey. Dive into the culinary diversity that its neighbourhoods promise, where each dish is a story waiting to be told. Your guide will navigate you past the usual queues, opening doors to experiences that go beyond the standard tourist fare. It's about getting to the heart of Jakarta, understanding it, and perhaps even feeling a part of it. With their wealth of insider knowledge, you'll find yourself not just visiting, but living Jakarta, if only for a little while. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Jakarta. Explore Jakarta your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Jakarta tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Jakarta for every interest, including: Layover tours: Meet your guide at Soekarno-Hatta for a timed route that fits your 4–8 hour window: head to Kota Tua for Fatahillah Square, a quick look inside the Jakarta History Museum, and a warm kerak telor from a favourite street cart, then a photo stop at Monas or a visit to Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral across the road. With a shorter layover, you can walk the Angke Kapuk mangrove boardwalk or grab noodles at Pantjoran PIK before returning to your gate. Nature and Wildlife tours: Glide by small boat through Muara Angke’s mangroves spotting egrets and kingfishers, then stretch your legs on the shaded paths at Hutan Mangrove PIK. Or take a day trip by fast boat to the Thousand Islands for snorkelling over reefs near Pramuka Island and a visit to a small sea turtle conservation centre when in season. History tours: Explore Sunda Kelapa harbour’s wooden schooners and the Museum Bahari, then circle Fatahillah Square for the Wayang Museum and colonial-era details your guide helps bring to life. In Glodok, trace Chinese-Indonesian heritage at Dharma Bhakti temple and Petak Sembilan market, tasting snacks like kue keranjang and fresh soy milk from a long-running stall. Central pockets like Kota Tua are walkable, and the MRT, LRT, and TransJakarta BRT cover key corridors, but distances are long and traffic can eat time; your guide can arrange chauffeured tours with private transportation to minimise transfers, especially on a tight schedule. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Jakarta inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover Jakarta through a private walking tour, where your local guide will lead you through the city's diverse neighborhoods. This is your chance to see Jakarta from a local's perspective, understanding its vibrant culture and dynamic life. - Kota Tua: Step into Jakarta's history in this area, ideal for cultural tourists. The old town's colonial architecture and museums provide a glimpse into the city's past. - Glodok: Explore Jakarta's Chinatown, perfect for foodies and those seeking cultural experiences. The vibrant markets and traditional eateries offer a taste of authentic local flavors. - Kemang: Known for its expat-friendly vibe and artistic flair, this neighborhood is great for multi-generational groups. Enjoy the galleries, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. - Menteng: A leafy, upscale neighborhood that families will appreciate. The area's parks and historic homes offer a pleasant escape from the bustling city. - Thamrin: Jakarta's commercial heart, ideal for those interested in shopping and modern city life. Experience the mix of high-end malls and local markets, all within a bustling urban setting. Day trip ideas from Jakarta Break up your time in Jakarta with day trips to nearby cities, highlands, and islands that match your interests, and shape your tour around food, nature, or history. - Bogor: cooler air, the vast Botanical Gardens, and old neighbourhoods make an easy change of pace, and your tour can lean into plant life, quiet garden walks, or street snacks around the square. - Puncak Highlands: tea fields, valley views, and farm stops suit anyone who likes fresh air and simple scenery, and your tour can include short hikes, tea tasting, and photo stops without rushing. - Thousand Islands (Pulau Seribu): a quick boat ride gets you clear water, reefs, and village life on islands like Pramuka, and your tour can focus on snorkelling, a slow beach lunch, or a loop through local markets. - Bandung: art deco streets, creative shops, and strong coffee keep city fans busy, and your tour can cover heritage buildings, textile outlets, and a food crawl that fits your pace. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Jakarta most travellers miss.