Things To Do
in Bengkulu
Bengkulu is a coastal city on the southwest coast of Sumatra known for its relaxed pace, seafood-forward cuisine, and historical sites. The city sits between palm-fringed beaches and green hills, offering a balanced mix of culture and nature. Notable attractions include the colonial Fort Marlborough and the Bung Karno House Museum, which provide windows into Indonesia’s colonial and independence-era history.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, stroll along Panjang Beach, and explore nearby nature reserves within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Bengkulu with a visit to the iconic Fort Marlborough, where you can explore the remnants of British colonial architecture. As you wander through the fort, take in the sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a local warung, sampling dishes such as Nasi Goreng and Pisang Goreng.
In the afternoon, visit the historic Rumah Pengasingan Soekarno, the house where Indonesia's first president was exiled. This museum provides insight into Indonesian history and the struggles for independence, along with well-preserved artifacts. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Botanical Garden, surrounded by lush greenery and exotic plants.
For dinner, indulge in local seafood delicacies at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day. As the sun sets, take a walk along the coast, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café, sipping on traditional Indonesian coffee while mingling with friendly locals.
Kick off your day with a relaxing breakfast overlooking the ocean, savoring local fruits and pastries. Head to Pantai Tapak Paderi, where you can choose from a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, snorkeling, or banana boat rides. The warm sun and clear waters promise an exhilarating start to your day.
After lunch at a beachside café, spend the afternoon exploring the underwater beauty of Bengkulu by snorkeling or diving at the nearby reefs. Marvel at the vibrant marine life and colorful corals, which make for an unforgettable experience. If you prefer, simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle sea breeze.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Afterward, treat yourself to a beach barbecue, where freshly grilled seafood is served under the stars. Engage in lively conversations with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| 🚕Taxi within city | $1-3 per ride |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly essentials) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery and seafood
- Friendly locals and historical sites
- Low-cost travel and accommodation
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Less English widely spoken in rural areas
- Seasonal weather can affect outdoor plans
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Dimana kamar kecil?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tolong, bisa bantu saya?" - Please help me?
Places to Visit in Bengkulu
Visit one of these nice places.
A well-preserved colonial fortress with red masonry, ideal for daytime architecture shots and sunset silhouettes.
The former residence of Indonesia's first president, offering interior and exterior photography with historical context.
A long stretch of coastline perfect for wide-angle sunset shots, palm trees, and fishermen at work.
Food in Bengkulu
Bengkulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Bengkulu specialty of fish and grated coconut wrapped in banana leaf and steamed to a fragrant, tender finish.
Must-Try!
Patin fish curry enriched with tempoyak (fermented durian), a distinctive Bengkulu flavor.
Grilled fish served with bright, spicy sambal and rice.
Local bread or pancakes often enjoyed with coconut milk and sweet sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market in Bengkulu City where you can sample fresh seafood, produce, and street snacks.
Evening stretches near the waterfront where vendors serve grilled fish, satay, and fried snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or religious areas.
A polite 'Selamat pagi/siang/sore' is commonly used; eye contact shows courtesy.
Always ask people before taking their photos, especially in markets or private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Bengkulu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5-10% at nicer restaurants; small tips for casual service are common.
Cash is widely accepted; many urban businesses also accept debit/credit cards, and mobile payments are increasingly popular in larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with clear skies; ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities, but expect higher heat during peak afternoons.
Frequent rainfall and high humidity; great for lush scenery, fewer crowds, and dramatic skies, but plan for rain gear and slippery trails.
Intermittent rain and pleasant temperatures; good for city exploration with lighter rainfall and fewer tourists.
Bengkulu at Night
Hiking in Bengkulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sumatra’s highest volcano offering challenging treks and dramatic crater views.
Dense rainforest trails with wildlife, waterfall viewpoints, and river crossings.
Gentle to moderate hikes through pine forests with scenic waterfalls.
Airports
How to reach Bengkulu by plane.
Domestic flights connect Bengkulu to Jakarta, Palembang, Medan, and other Indonesian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Malay-speaking community with strong coastal traditions.
Migrants and residents contributing diverse cultural influences.
A small but established community with business and cultural contributions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Indonesia, with local matches and informal games in parks and schools.
Widely played in communities and clubs; easy to pick up for travelers.
Common in city parks and school grounds; casual street games are frequent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bengkulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are seafood-based; you can ask for vegetable sides and rice. Look for tempeh and tofu options, and request dishes without fish stock or shrimp paste.