As a Licensed Tour Guide Indonesia, I ensure an authentic experience for every traveler.

Sampurasun! I am Ridwan.

Your Local Friend, Storyteller, and Guide to the Real Indonesia.

From a Local Boy to International Guide

I was born and raised in Bogor city, while my father grew up in the foothills of Mount Salak. From childhood through my teenage years, almost every weekend my father would bring our family back to the villages in those foothills to visit my grandparents.

As a child, the rainforest became my playground. I spent my days exploring hidden waterfalls, rice paddies, and village trails that you won’t find on Google Maps. Those childhood memories shaped my deep love for nature.

My journey as a professional guide started in 2012. I realized that many travelers only see the “tourist version” of Indonesia from a bus window. I wanted to change that. I wanted to show the Real Indonesia—the smell of wet earth after rain, the taste of authentic Sundanese food, and the warmth of local smiles.

📚 The “Stefan Loose” & “Lonely Planet” Story

One of the proudest moments in my career was when my guests—writers for the legendary Stefan Loose (German) and Lonely Planet guidebooks—featured my services in their books.

They didn’t recommend me because I have a fancy office. They recommended me because I showed them the heart of Java with passion and honesty. Today, I carry that same standard for every single guest.

Why I Built “The Expert Team”

As years went by, I received more requests than I could handle alone. I had to make a choice: Say “No” to travelers, or build a team that I trust.

I chose to build a family.

Today, Ridwan Guide Bogor is not just one person. It is a collective of the best licensed guides and safest drivers in West Java. I personally train and brief my team to ensure that even when I am fully booked, you still get the “Ridwan Standard” of safety and hospitality.