Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world and offers everything from relaxing on white-sand beaches, scuba diving in crystal clear warm waters, or surfing the waves to climbing and peering into active volcanoes, or just experiencing the diverse cultures and traditions across the many islands and regions.

SUMATRA

Sumatra is known for its strong cultural identity, with major ethnics such as Batak, Malay, and Minang, and minor ones such as Mentawai and Kubu. Sumatra, an island of incredible natural richness and cultural heritage, is the only place on Earth where tigers, elephants, rhinos, and orangutans coexist. It boasts the forest with the greatest vascular plant diversity of any lowland forest studied, highlighting its ecological significance. However, it faces challenges such as having one of the world's highest deforestation rates. The island's name itself has a story, derived from 'Samudra,' meaning ocean, reflecting its maritime history and importance. Be sure to visit Kerinci Seblat National Park to see wild tigers and elephants as well as the monstrous rafflesia flowers. Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and well worth seeing.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SUMATRA:

• Medan: Known as the culinary capital of Indonesia, Medan offers a rich cultural experience with attractions like the Sultan's Palace Maimoon and the grand mosque, Mesjid Raya.

• Lake Toba: The largest crater lake in the world, Lake Toba is a natural wonder resulting from a massive volcanic eruption, offering opportunities for swimming and boat rides.

• Bukit Lawang: A gateway to the dense rainforests of Sumatra, home to the endangered orangutans and a popular spot for jungle trekking.

• Berastagi: Famous for its two active volcanoes, Sibayak and Sinabung, Berastagi is a haven for hikers and those seeking hot springs.

• Padang: The heartland of the Minangkabau culture, known for its matriarchal society and delicious Nasi Padang cuisine.

• Banda Aceh: A city with a poignant history, it's the closest major city to the 2004 tsunami's epicenter, now rebuilt with sites like the Tsunami Museum.

• The Mentawai Islands: Renowned for their surf breaks and indigenous culture, these remote islands offer an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

• Gunung Sibayak: A dormant volcano in Berastagi, which visitors can climb for stunning views.

• Sipiso-Piso Waterfall: One of the tallest waterfalls in Asia, located near Lake Toba.

• Belitung Island: A remote paradise known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.

• Weh Island: Offers excellent snorkelling opportunities with rich marine life.

  
  

KALIMANTAN

Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of the island of Borneo, is a land of rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It's home to the Dayak tribes, known for their vibrant culture and traditional dances like the Manasai, which celebrates joy and gratitude towards nature. The island's diverse ecosystem includes rainforests, mountains, and endangered species such as the orangutans, found in Tanjung Puting National Park. Kalimantan's name, derived from Sanskrit, reflects its hot and humid tropical climate, meaning "burning weather island". This fascinating region is also set to host Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara, showcasing its growing significance within the country.

HIGHLIGHTS OF KALIMANTAN

• Tanjung Puting National Park: A renowned conservation area that offers a unique opportunity to see orangutans in their natural habitat.

• Derawan Islands: Known for their stunning underwater life, including sea turtles and diverse coral reefs.

• Martapura: Often referred to as the 'Land of Diamonds', this town is famous for its traditional diamond mining.

• Samarinda's Islamic Center: Features an ornate mosque and an observation tower providing panoramic views of the city.

• St. Joseph's Cathedral in Pontianak: A modern architectural marvel that replaced an earlier church built in 1908.

• Pasar Terapung Lok Baintan: Experience the authentic floating market life on the Martapura River.

• KWPLH Sun Bear Conservation Center: A center dedicated to the conservation of sun bears and educating visitors about the plight of Kalimantan's wildlife.

• Goa Beloyot: An adventurous site featuring a limestone cave set above the forest, accessible from Merabu village.

• Cempaka Diamond Fields: Witness traditional diamond mining methods where miners use water cannons to blast sediment in search of diamonds.

• Cultural Heritage: Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Dayak communities and their traditional longhouses deep within the rainforest.

• Biodiversity: Kalimantan's rainforests are home to a vast array of flora and fauna, offering incredible biodiversity for nature enthusiasts.

JAVA

Greatly underestimated, Java is a fantastic island to visit and has some incredible cultural treasures. Java is not only the world's most populous island but also a place of immense cultural and natural richness. It boasts over 30 active and inactive volcanoes, including the majestic Mount Bromo, offering breathtaking views and adventurous trekking experiences. Java's vibrant cities, such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Yogyakarta, are hubs of cultural diversity, reflecting a blend of traditional and modern lifestyles.

Not to be missed are Borobudur which is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world and the equally impressive Hindu ruins of Prambanan. Although not as easy to reach, Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park contains some of the scariest volcanic scenery on the planet and claims to be one of the best locations in the world to see the sunrise! One-day Bromo sunrise tours from Surabaya are easy to book but if you have more time a 3-day tour taking in both Ijen and Bromo might provide for a more relaxed experience.

We went DIY to see Bromo - read about our experience at Mount Bromo here and make up your own mind. Yet another jewel of nature, Ijen Crater in East Java, with its famous blue sulphur flames is well worth the midnight wake-up and steep hike - but it is probably easier to do with as part of a group.

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAVA

• Jakarta: The bustling capital city, offering a blend of cultures, cuisines, and architecture.

• Yogyakarta: Known as the cultural heart of Java, with attractions like the Ramayana Ballet and batik workshops.

• Borobudur Temple: The world's largest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 9th century.

• Prambanan Temple: A breathtaking Hindu temple complex, best viewed at sunset.

• Mount Bromo: An active volcano within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, known for its stunning views.

• Ijen Crater: Famous for its electric-blue flames and sulphur mining.

• Bandung: A city renowned for its Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant street life.

• Ujung Kulon National Park: A natural reserve home to the critically endangered Javan rhinoceros.

BALI

Bali, often referred to as the Island of the Gods, is a province of Indonesia and a major tourist destination known for its highly developed arts, including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking, and music.

The Balinese culture is a mix of Balinese Hindu-Buddhist religion and Balinese customs. It is perhaps most well-known for its dance and drama, which are also among the most diverse and sophisticated in Indonesia. The island is also home to the world's most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, and the sacred Monkey Forest of Ubud, which is inhabited by a band of grey long-tailed macaques.

Not just rich in culture and natural beauty, Bali also has a unique culinary heritage, where traditional meals are taken seriously, often involving a variety of spices, blended with the fresh vegetables, meat, and fish. A visit to Bali promises an unforgettable amalgamation of cultural and sensory experiences.

See our dedicated BALI TRAVEL PAGE here.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BALI

• Pura Tanah Lot: An iconic temple set on a rocky islet, known for its stunning seaside views and cultural significance.

• Mount Batur: Offers a trekking experience to see the sunrise from atop an active volcano.

• Uluwatu Temple: A beautiful sea temple that offers panoramic views and cultural performances.

• Ubud Monkey Forest: A natural forest sanctuary that is home to a troop of grey long-tailed macaques.

• Tegallalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Known for their scenic beauty and traditional Balinese irrigation system.

• Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: A picturesque water temple that sits on the shores of Lake Bratan.

• Seminyak Shopping: Offers a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and bars.

• Nusa Dua Beach: Renowned for its golden sand, clear waters, and luxurious resorts.

• Besakih Temple: Known as the 'Mother Temple' of Bali, it is the largest and holiest temple of the Hindu religion in Bali.

• The Nusa Islands: A trio of islands known for their stunning cliffs, clear waters, and marine life.

• Kuta Beach: A popular tourist destination known for its lively atmosphere and great surf conditions.

• Lempuyang Temple Complex: Offers an ancient pilgrimage site with a series of temples along a mountain slope.

• The Sidemen Valley: Features lush landscapes, traditional villages, and opportunities for trekking.

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Considered one of Bali's most beautiful waterfalls, with a natural pool for swimming.

• Tirta Empul Temple: A Hindu Balinese water temple famous for its holy spring water.

• Waterbom Bali: A world-class waterpark that provides fun and entertainment for the whole family.

SULAWESI

Sulawesi, an island in Indonesia, is a place of remarkable biodiversity and cultural heritage. It's part of Wallacea, a zone of deep-water oceans that has fostered a unique mix of both Indomalayan and Australasian species.

Makassar, the island's largest city, offers historical sites like Fort Rotterdam and the beautiful Losari Beach. For nature enthusiasts, the Wakatobi Islands provide some of the best diving experiences with their clear waters and abundant marine life. The highlands of Tana Toraja present a unique cultural landscape, famous for their traditional houses and elaborate funeral ceremonies. The Bunaken National Marine Park is a must-visit for its rich biodiversity, especially for those keen on snorkelling and diving.

The island is also known for its distinctive social customs, such as the elaborate funeral ceremonies of the Toraja people. Moreover, Sulawesi's geography is as diverse as its culture, with four peninsulas separated by three gulfs, creating a landmass that is both rugged and beautiful.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SULAWESI

• Makassar: Known as the gateway to Sulawesi, this capital city of South Sulawesi is famous for its historical Fort Rotterdam and the picturesque Losari Beach.

• Wakatobi Islands: A diver's paradise, these islands offer some of the best diving spots in Indonesia with remarkable marine biodiversity.

• Tana Toraja: A highland region renowned for its unique culture, traditional Tongkonan houses, and elaborate funeral ceremonies.

• Bunaken: Located off the coast of Manado, Bunaken is celebrated for its marine national park with exceptional biodiversity and wall diving opportunities.

• Togean Islands: Offering a serene escape, these islands are known for their beautiful coral reefs and a laid-back, untouched natural environment.

• Tangkoko National Park: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, this park is home to unique species like the Celebes crested macaque and the spectral tarsier.

• Lembeh Strait: The world's best muck diving destination, providing a unique underwater experience with its diverse and unusual marine life.

NUSA TENGARA

Nusa Tenggara, a captivating archipelago in Indonesia, is known for its diverse landscape that ranges from lush jungle in the north to arid savannah in the south and east. It's home to the famous Komodo dragons, the world's largest lizards, which are found only in this unique region.

The islands also boast stunning pink-sand beaches and vibrant underwater worlds, making it a haven for divers and adventurers alike. With more than 500 islands, including Sumba, Flores, and Timor, Nusa Tenggara offers a rich tapestry of culture, nature, and history waiting to be explored.

HIGHLIGHTS OF NUSA TENGGARA

• Kelimutu National Park: Home to the tri-colored volcanic lakes that change colours due to mineral and gas interactions.

• Komodo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for the Komodo dragons, the world's largest lizards.

• Weekuri Lagoon: A stunning saltwater lake on Sumba Island, known for its clear waters and picturesque setting.

• Pantai Mawun: A beautiful half-moon bay with white sand and crystal-clear waters, located in South Lombok.

• Pantai Koka: A double bay with white sands and a serene atmosphere, situated on Flores Island.

• Spider Web Rice Fields: Unique rice paddies that resemble spider webs, located near Ruteng on Flores Island.

• Pura Lingsar: This large temple compound in Lombok is a significant site of worship blending Balinese Hinduism and Wektu Telu Islam.

• Air Terjun Oehala: A refreshing waterfall in West Timor, offering a scenic spot for relaxation and picnics.

MALUKU

The Maluku Islands, historically known as the Spice Islands, are an enchanting archipelago in eastern Indonesia. These islands were the only place on Earth where the coveted spices of nutmeg, mace, and cloves were originally found, igniting European colonial interests in the 16th century.

The region's rich and diverse history is marked by a unique blend of cultures and a tumultuous past, including the Spice War and the Maluku Riots. Today, Maluku's landscape is dotted with mountainous terrain and active volcanoes, and its lush rainforests and spice-laden plantations continue to thrive in the islands' wet climate.

HIGHLIGHTS OF MALUKU

• Ambon City: Known for its Dutch colonial history, Ambon City is a developed area in Maluku with historical sites like Benteng Victoria fort. It's also home to beautiful mosques such as Mesjid Al Fatah and Mesjid Jame.

• Pulau Seram: Despite its name meaning 'scary' in Indonesian, Pulau Seram offers a serene experience with attractions like the Sangar Budaya Seram Museum and the picturesque bay of Teluk Sawai. Ora Beach is notable for its traditional stilt bungalows.

• Tanimbar Islands: These islands are part of a remote archipelago offering a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, including pristine beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkelling and diving.

• Historic Landmarks: Maluku is dotted with historic landmarks from the spice-trade era and World War II, which are significant for history enthusiasts.

• Diving and Marine Life: The region is renowned for its exceptional diving spots, with diverse marine topography and abundant marine life.

• National Parks: Maluku's national parks are less frequented, offering untouched natural landscapes and wildlife.

PAPUA

Papua, Indonesia, is a land of stunning contrasts and immense biodiversity. It's home to the majestic Puncak Jaya, the highest mountain peak in Indonesia, and a variety of unique wildlife, including tree kangaroos and the world's largest butterflies. The region's rich cultural tapestry is woven from hundreds of indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own language and customs. Despite its natural wealth, Papua remains one of the least developed areas in Indonesia, presenting a complex blend of challenges and opportunities.

Unlike the rest of Indonesia, visiting Papua requires considerable planning, a lot of money, and a tolerance for extremely challenging conditions! If you happen to possess all of the above, then Baliem Valley has superb trekking into the lands of the Lani, Dani, and Yali tribes. Lorentz National Park is the single largest national park anywhere in Southeast Asia and has a permanent glacier.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PAPUA

• Raja Ampat: Known for its stunning islands and premier diving spots with a rich variety of marine life and coral species.

• Goa Jepang: A historical site with a network of caves used by Japanese soldiers during World War II, now open for exploration.

• Cenderawasih Bay Marine National Park: A marine park with diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities for snorkelling and witnessing the vibrant underwater life.

• Baliem Valley: Offers cultural encounters with local tribes, trekking adventures, and the chance to join traditional festivals.

• Birdwatching: Papua is home to the exotic bird-of-paradise, among other rare species, making it a prime location for bird enthusiasts.

• Tribal Art: Discover ancient cave paintings and traditional tribal art, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Untouched Rainforests: Vast expanses of pristine rainforest, providing habitat for diverse wildlife and offering unique trekking experiences.

LOMBOK

Lombok is a popular island region just to the east of Bali and includes the tiny laidback Gili Islands which many people visit directly from Bali. The island is known for its unique blend of cultures and breathtaking natural beauty.

The island's name, which means 'chili' in the local language, reflects its spicy cuisine. Lombok is also home to the indigenous Sasak people, who are divided into two main groups: Wektu Lima, who are orthodox Sunni Muslims, and Wektu Telu, who practice a blend of Islam, Hinduism, and animism.

The island's landscape is dominated by Mount Rinjani, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, offering adventurous treks and stunning views. Lombok's weaving villages, such as Puyung, are renowned for their traditional textiles, which are cherished family heirlooms passed down through generations.

See our dedicated LOMBOK TRAVEL PAGE here.

HIGHLIGHTS OF LOMBOK

• Mount Rinjani: An active volcano that offers challenging treks and stunning views of a crater lake.

• Gili Islands: A group of small islands with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life for snorkelling and diving.

• Tiu Kelep Waterfall: A scenic waterfall located in lush jungle, perfect for a refreshing swim after a trek.

• Sasak Culture: Explore the traditional Sasak villages to experience the local culture and architecture.

• Surfing in Kuta: Kuta Beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions and less crowded than its Balinese counterpart.

• Pura Lingsar: This unique temple reflects the island's blend of Hindu and Islamic Waktu Telu cultures.

• Sembalun Valley: A peaceful valley with picturesque scenery, ideal for hiking and enjoying the rural atmosphere.

• Narmada Park: A historical park with a water palace, reflecting the Hindu influence on the island's culture.

• Diving in Sekotong: The lesser-known diving spots in Sekotong offer a chance to explore untouched coral reefs.

• Lombok Culinary Tour: Savor the local cuisine, including dishes like Ayam