Indonesia is famous for its lush beaches and vibrant nightlife, so potential visitors may be led to think that it’s best enjoyed by adults only. However, children of all ages need not be left out of a holiday to Jakarta; there’s plenty to see in the Big Durian, and a wide variety of things tailored specifically for kids to do. From educational attractions where they’ll learn and have fun, to whimsical experiences for the whole family to enjoy, read on for our top picks:
- Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Expose your children to the wonders of Indonesian culture by visiting Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, or Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park. Known to locals as Taman Mini, this East Jakarta attraction is a fun way to see the entire country without ever leaving the city you’re in! The park was one of the initiatives of the late former first lady of Indonesia, Raden Ayu Siti Hartinah, known to Indonesians as Ibu Tien or Mrs. Tien Soeharto, who conceived of it during a trip to Disneyland.
It covers 250 acres of hilly land that can be explored by foot, by bicycle, by mini shuttle bus, or by sky lift. Divided into 6 areas that each represent a main island of the archipelago, families can explore regional pavilions, museums, and gardens that have been meticulously modelled after the represented region, down to the plant life. Visitors can view traditional costumes and other ethnographic artefacts such as tools and weaponry, or catch a traditional dance or music performance. Make sure to spare an entire day to see the whole park, and bring sun protection!
- Snowbay Waterpark
Officially a part of Taman Mini, Snowbay Waterpark’s odd choice of incorporating a snowy mountain as its theme doesn’t take away from the hours of fun and enjoyment you can have here as a family. It’s a blessed respite from the heat and humidity, featuring several pools, water slides, and other water-related attractions that’s sure to delight both children and adults.
Laze along the Typhoon River on your very own water tube, ride the exhilarating Cool Running slide on a sled, or simply relax at the Spa Zone, a circular Jacuzzi pool divided into 4 smaller pools: 1 with hot water and 3 with cold water. We recommend checking into a nearby hotel if you’d like to experience TMII to the fullest: Banggalawa Hotel is just 13 minutes away from the expansive park, making it an accessible and convenient home base for the duration of your stay.
- Ragunan Zoo
This 363-acre zoo in South Jakarta is one of the most popular destinations in the region for locals and tourists alike, easily accessible by public transportation and a great place to have a lunchtime picnic. It is home to over 3000 animals, many of which are threatened or endangered.
If your children are animal lovers, they will surely enjoy seeing African lions, Sumatran tigers, elephants, crocodiles, orangutans, and gibbons in the flesh. Those who wish to see the Komodo dragon but cannot make the trip to the island can also see one here. The grounds are well-maintained and kept clean, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely outdoor picnic. Families can also catch animal shows, ride bikes, or board boats to explore Ragunan Lake. The highlight of the zoo is the Schmutzer Primate Center, a 32-acre enclosure for gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and other primates.
- Ancol Dreamland
This massive recreational complex is part of Ancol Bay City, a resort destination located along the waterfront in North Jakarta. Among the attractions are an oceanarium called SeaWorld, a zoo called Faunaland, a water park called Atlantis Water Adventure, and an amusement park called Dunia Fantasi. Your family will be absolutely spoiled for choice in terms of activities! Gondolas drift above the beach, giving you a bird’s eye view of the entire area; those who wish to remain firmly on land can explore by hopping onto a Wara-Wiri bus instead. There are stops all around the area and buses depart every 5 minutes.
Check out SeaWorld Indonesia and get up close and personal with creatures from the deep as you walk through a scenic underwater tunnel, or take in a dolphin show at Ocean Dream. Keep the excitement going with a visit to Atlantis Water Adventure, a water park replete with slides and other attractions, including a wave pool and a waterfall pool. Those looking to stay dry will find similar thrills over at Dunia Fantasi, fondly dubbed DuFan by the locals.
Jakarta’s answer to Disneyland is the biggest outdoor amusement park in the country; not to be missed are rides such as the Halilintar roller coaster, the Turbo Drop, which offers guests a 360-degree aerial view of the entire park before it plunges them back to earth, and the Niagara-gara, an exciting log flume ride.
A City for the Whole Family
Jakarta has no shortage of attractions that the entire family can enjoy. The sights and sounds of the city will delight children and adults alike, and these 4 child-friendly destinations offer endless opportunities for families to make happy memories together.
