10 Best Things to do in and around Malang, Indonesia 2023
Are you planning a trip to Malang? Great choice! It’s a unique city with a vibrant culture that you shouldn’t miss if you’re in the area. Malang is located in the East Java province of Indonesia. Unlike some other parts of the country, Malang is known for its chilled weather and being the hub to visiting many adventurous hotspots around it. If you are looking for a place packed with day trip adventures, authentic eateries, and stunning landscapes, look no further.
There are enough activities to keep you busy for days on end. So, we put together a highlight reel of the best things to do in Malang. Let’s check them out!
1. Mount Bromo Tour
Just outside Malang is Mount Bromo – an active volcano known for its jaw-dropping sunrises. From Malang, you can book a guided tour that will take you to the perfect spot to watch the gorgeous purples, yellows, and reds rise from the horizon. Some people might be disinclined to use a tour guide, but in this case, it will make your life a lot easier. Keep in mind that you’ll have an early wake-up call since it takes about 2 hours and a half to get there.
After you enjoy the sunrise, you’ll have the chance to climb the volcano – it’s easier than it sounds! Even though it stands over 2,300 meters tall, it only takes about 30 minutes to hike it (depending on your fitness level). Having experienced it first hand, we wrote an article on everything you need to know about this Tour.
2. Visit the Rainbow Village
If you are wondering what to do in Malang, check out Jodipan, known as the Rainbow Village. It’s one of the most visited places, as it sits in the heart of Malang and has a great backstory.
Jodipan use to be a poverty-stricken town that was quite literally falling apart. Living conditions were becoming so bad that the government considered relocating all Jodpian’s residents. But then, a group of university students stepped in and provided a solution: paint the town like a rainbow! In 2016 the air force did exactly that.
Ever since, Jodipan has turned into a colorful town and is one of the top Malang tourist attractions. Although it is a site to see when in Malang, it still feels like it needs more restoration and maintenance to keep the village bright and alive.
3. Batu Day Tour
Take a trip to Batu to experience the scenic mountains and all the activities it has to offer. In the town, you’ll be a stone’s throw away from the famous Coban Rondo waterfall and hedge maze, where you can go paint-balling and zip-lining.
Once you have made it out of the maze, head over to one of the farms to pick apples, strawberries, and all the other fruits which are in season. Batu is also home to several waterfalls, so bring your bathing suit!
4. Goa Tetes Waterfall
For waterfall lovers, Goa Tetes Waterfall is an absolute must! It’s located in Lumajang – about two hours southeast of Malang. Pay the IDR 10,000 (Approx $0.70) entrance fee and take a gorgeous 20-30 minute hike through the forest, and experience the breathtaking waterfall that trickles over gaping caves.
They say you can't do it in sandals, but to be honest it wasn't that bad, as our Havaianas got us through the climb. The terrain is slippery, and you will end up having to get your feet wet and dirty, so don't bring your favourite footwear for this trip. If you’re thinking, ‘that seems like a far drive for one waterfall,’ don’t worry. There is still more to see.
5. Air Terjun Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls
From Goa Tetes, there is another must-see waterfall – Tumpak Sewu. It’s known as the Niagara Falls of Indonesia for the way it curves around the cliff. While the Tumpak Sewu might not flow as strong as the Niagara, its background of a lush forest and volcano puts it in a class of its own.
From Goa Tetes you will hike another 15 minutes through uneven terrain and walk through a stream of water thats about hip waist to then be greeted by the impressive Tumpak Sewu waterfall. There is another entrance fee of IDR 20,000 (Approx $1.40), so make sure to have some cash with you (card not accepted).
This honestly is one of best waterfalls we have seen in Indonesia, maybe even in Asia!!! From the bottom you can then hike up another route to see Tumpak Sewu waterfall from above. This will only take you around 20 minutes.
If you still haven’t scratched your waterfall itch, check out the Kapas Biru waterfall, located just before or after Tumpak Sewu, depending on which way you’re hiking the waterfall, as there are different routes.
6. Eat and Drink Like a Local
In Malang, there’s no shortage of tasty restaurants that will leave you beyond satisfied. Indonesia is recognized for its delicious meat skewers, fried rice, noodle bowls, and much more. Whenever you can, you should always eat at local restaurants and cafés. Here’s a list of some of the best spots to stop at, you won’t regret chowing down at any of these locations!
- Ronde Titoni 1948 (Best dessert in town)
- Nasi Goreng "Bang Joni" (street food)
- Wood Eatery
- Kanghut Ayam Bakar
- Cita Rasa Rumah Makan
7. Wonosari Tea Plantation
The Wonosari Tea Plantation is a great place to spend the morning or afternoon. Explore the endless greenery, sip on cups of local tea, and relax after all the intense travelling you've been doing. It’s one of the top Malang tourist attractions and for good reasons.
The area consists of over 1,000 hectares, so you’ll have no trouble finding a quiet spot to unwind. If you’re up for more activities, you can go on a tea factory tour, rent ATVs and bikes, or sign up for a sunrise jeep tour.
8. Pasar Oro Oro Dowo Market
Of all the things to do in Malang, visiting the Pasar Oro Oro Dowo Market is a must. The market first opened in 1932 and has been the hub where locals set up traditional food stalls, buy and sell produce, and offer a range of other goods.
No matter which country you end up in, local markets are a sure way to get a true, authentic experience. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, take the time to walk around and soak in the culture around you.
9. Walk Down Jalan Ijen
Take a walk down Jalan Ijen, a street where you can witness the leftovers of Dutch colonization. The Dutch began officially colonizing Indonesia in the 1800s. However, they had already occupied some parts of the region since the 1600s. Malang’s comfortable climate and beautiful scenery made it an attractive destination to the Dutch. Old, luxurious homes and a cathedral can still be seen on Jalan Ijen.
10. Summit Mount Semeru
One of the most adventurous things to do in Malang is to summit Mount Semeru Volcano. Also known as The Great Mountain, it is the tallest peak in Java. Summiting the volcano takes two to three days, so hikers need to be prepared. You’ll trek through a gorgeous meadow, camp by a pristine lake, and climb up rocky terrain. For hikers, Mount Semeru has it all.
A three-day hike is not to be taken lightly. If you don’t have the proper equipment or physical health, it can be a dangerous experience. Never hesitate to hire a guide who will relieve the stress of planning so you can soak up the beautiful scenery.
Where to Stay in Malang
Being a main hub to adventure from, there is a wide array of accommodations in Malang to choose from, no matter your budget. We had opted to stay at Mador Hostel as it had amazing reviews and they planned out our Mount Bromo and Ijen tour. Having stayed there, we definitely would recommend it. Below are a list of hotels from low-range to luxury stays that you can choose from.
Budget friendly hotel
Super clean and hygienic, safe, offers private bedrooms, friendly staff, perfect location, 5 minutes walk from Rainbow Village.
Mid-range priced hotel
Welcoming staff, value for money, close to downtown, great WiFi
Luxury Stays
Great location, clean, quite and comfortable rooms, amazing breakfast, amazing in-house spa and facilities.
Final Thoughts
From visiting local markets to hiking volcanoes, Malang tourist attractions make for an unforgettable experience. The city is in the perfect location to be your home base while you explore all that East Java has to offer. If Malang wasn’t already on your travel list, it hopefully should be now.
