A nation encompassing over 17,000 islands (only 922 of those are permanently inhabited), Indonesia has a diversity seen in few other places in the world. From a fascinating culture to astonishing geography, wildlife, and religion, Indonesia never fails to enchant those that visit. In fact, we could list a million reasons to travel to Indonesia, but we’ve plumped for five to get you started. Watch how quickly you fall in love…
The Volcanoes
Indonesia has the third most volcanoes in the world with a whopping total of 139 spread across its many islands. They can take anything from a few hours to multiple days to summit, but the view is always sublime. On Lombok island, majestic Mount Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, rising above vivid crater lakes and vast landscapes. It usually takes around two to three days to hike to the top; days are spent marvelling at the view and soaking in the hot springs, and nights are for camping under a blanket of stars. In East Java, Mount Bromo, surrounded by the iconic ‘Sea of Sand’, is one of Indonesia’s most iconic and accessible volcanoes, and a pre-dawn trek rewards hikers with ravishing sunrises, whereas Mount Ijen is most dazzling in the early morning when it lights up with blue flames caused by the rare ignition of sulfuric gas.
The Temples
Indonesia has a remarkable mix of religions and the countryside and coasts are peppered with ornate temples – sunrise or sunset is when they’re at their most splendid. On the island of Java is Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and among the most iconic religious structures in Southeast Asia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a striking design with nine wedding-cake-tiered platforms and over 500 statues of Buddha. Bali is known for its sea temples, which are perched on cliffs above the ocean. Sitting dramatically on a rocky outcrop, Tanah Lot is one of the island’s most famous and can be walked to at low tide (although only Hindu believers are allowed to enter), while Uluwatu Temple is one of the best places to watch traditional Kecak dancing. Located in Central Java, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, its walls adorned with intricate carvings.
The Wildlife
Across Indonesia, there is a wide variety of ecosystems, making it one of the world’s megadiverse countries – and there’s a plethora of unique wildlife to see. One of the most iconic sights is the Komodo dragon. Found in a national park of the same name, the dragon is the largest living lizard in the world and can grow up to an impressive 10 feet long. Over in Indonesia’s portion of Borneo (Kalimantan), are the rust-furred orangutan, known for their intelligence and proclivity for dangling from trees but sadly endangered and incredibly special to see in the wild. Other rare and endemic creatures include the Sumatran tiger and Javan rhino, one of the most secretive animals on the planet. Indonesia is also a twitcher’s paradise, with over 1,600 known species. Notable names include Birds of Paradise, the elusive Bali Myna, Javan hawk eagle and rhinoceros hornbill. Indonesia also forms part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world.
The Surfing & Snorkelling
Indonesia is known the world over for its impeccable surfing, ranging from world-famous spots for serious surfers to gentle breaks for anyone just learning to hang ten. For the former, check out the Bukit Peninsula or Uluwatu in Bali, or in East Java, head straight for G-Land, a legendary surfing location. You’ll also find a host of surf schools scattered around the islands, most often in the vicinity of easy waves for beginners. Across Bali and Lombok, try Kuta Beach, Jimbaran Bay and Medwei Beach. And the adventure continues beneath the surface of the water… Indonesia is home to 20% of the world’s coral reefs: don a snorkel and some fins and you’ll see everything from sea turtles and reef sharks to manta rays and dugongs. Just off Lombok, the Gili Islands are a real treat for both snorkellers and scuba divers, while the waters of the Nusa Penida region are known for their huge manta rays.
The Culture & Crafts
Indonesia has a rich tradition of handicrafts, influenced by centuries of intermingling ethnic groups. While they often vary from island to island, these crafts are deeply embedded in the culture, traditions and daily lives of the Indonesian people. You’ll find beautifully-crafted textiles using methods like Batik, Songket and Ikat and wood carving is another highly respected skill, with many temples and traditional homes adorned with intricate carvings. The making of fine filigree jewellery has become highly popular as well. Ubud is considered to be the cultural heart of Bali, and there are studios offering hands-on workshops in everything from Batik to Balinese painting. You can also visit the Sasak Villages of Lombok, known for their unique architecture, weaving and pottery making. In terms of the performing arts, Wayang is Indonesia’s traditional shadow puppetry where leather figures are used to tell stories, while there is an incredible array of dance styles, each with their own unique tale.
There are endless reasons to visit Indonesia, whether it’s the diverse and fascinating culture, crystalline waters and scrumptious beaches, storybook wildlife or epic volcanoes. So, if you’re raring to go and ready to plan a trip of your own, check out our guide on the best time to visit.
