Indonesia

Bali, Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, Wakatobi, Lombok, Komodo, Flores, Gili Islands, Banda Neira (Spice Islands) and Raja Ampat.

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Travel to Indonesia

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There’s hardly anywhere in the world as diverse as Indonesia in terms of culture, nature and landscape. It’s a fast-developing nation and visitors may be surprised to discover a high level of hospitality and service for all travellers. 

There is more than a life time of opportunities to explore this captivating archipelago known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

With over 350 languages and 17,000 islands, each island is like visiting a different country. Indonesia promises a diverse and immersive travel experience.

View over the Raja Ampat archipelago, which comprises 1,800 islands
View over the Raja Ampat archipelago, which comprises 1,800 islands

Because of its diversity and the daunting number of islands, at first glance it may seem to present a challenge but this shouldn’t stop you considering it for a holiday. After your first visit, you'll have the confidence to explore further in this remarkable country. 

Indonesia boasts over 350 languages and 17,000 islands, each offering a unique charm
Indonesia boasts over 350 languages and 17,000 islands, each offering a unique charm

Explore the iconic beaches of Bali, where azure waters meet golden sands, and soak in the rich cultural tapestry of Java with its ancient temples and lively markets. Sumatra beckons with lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, while Borneo offers thrilling encounters with orangutans in their natural habitat. Sulawesi's distinctive landscapes and traditional villages provide a glimpse into the country's cultural mosaic. Lombok entices with pristine beaches, and Komodo Island unveils the mesmerizing Komodo dragons.

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Marvel at the surreal landscapes of Mount Bromo and immerse yourself in the artistic haven of Ubud. The Gili Islands provide a tranquil escape, while Raja Ampat showcases unparalleled marine biodiversity. From the Spice Islands to Tana Toraja's unique traditions, Indonesia unfolds as a traveler's paradise, promising an unforgettable blend of natural wonders and cultural richness.

Plan your adventure with the experts and discover the magic of Indonesia.

Prambanan temple on Java was built in the 10th century and is the largest temple complex dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia.
Prambanan temple on Java was built in the 10th century and is the largest temple complex dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia.

Getting to Indonesia

Getting to Indonesia involves multiple options, typically starting with international flights.

Major airports like Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya are common entry points. Numerous airlines operate flights to Indonesia from major cities worldwide. Visitors can check for direct flights or opt for layovers depending on their departure location.

Once in Indonesia, domestic flights, ferries, buses, and local transportation networks facilitate travel between islands. It's advisable to plan transportation in advance, considering the archipelago's vastness and the language barriers.  However, since COVID, the regularity and reliability of flights has declined. It is best to take advice before travelling. We organise travel reservations via a local language partner, which guarantees resolution of any problems as they arise.

Top 12 things to do in Indonesia

  1. Explore Remote West Bali: Immerse yourself in a resort in west Bali, where the beaches are vast and life is peaceful, far from the maddening crowds of Kuta.
  2. Visit Borobudur Temple in Yogyakarta: Marvel at the world's largest Buddhist temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing intricate carvings and a serene ambiance.
  3. Luxuriate in Wakatobi: Take a trip to one of the most luxurious resorts in the world, situated in the heart of the Coral Triangle.
  4. Hike Mount Bromo at Sunrise: Experience the surreal beauty of Java by trekking to the viewpoint of Mount Bromo, where a dramatic sunrise unveils a lunar-like landscape.
  5. Encounter Komodo Dragons in Komodo National Park: Witness the prehistoric Komodo dragons in their natural habitat on Komodo Island, complemented by stunning landscapes and underwater wonders.
  6. Snorkel or dive in Raja Ampat: Explore one of the world's most biodiverse marine ecosystems, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life await beneath the turquoise waters.
  7. Trek in Tana Toraja, Sulawesi: Embark on a cultural journey in Tana Toraja, where unique funeral ceremonies, traditional houses, and lush landscapes offer an authentic experience.
  8. Witness Prambanan Temple Complex: Admire the stunning Hindu temple complex near Yogyakarta, featuring towering structures adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs.
  9. Visit the oldest primate research centre in the world: Take a boat trip upriver and convene with orangutans in southern Kalimantan.
  10. Discover Traditional Weaving on Flores and Sumba  : Uncover the intricate art of these islands where you can witness the traditional weaving processes.
  11. Relish Balinese Cuisine in Seminyak: Indulge in the diverse flavors of Balinese cuisine at Seminyak's renowned restaurants, offering a fusion of traditional and modern dishes.ity's modern vibe.
  12. Take a Traditional Phinisi Cruise: Sail through the stunning waters of the eastern Indonesia offering a luxurious and unique way to explore the archipelago.
Mt Semeru, Indonesia
Mt Semeru, Indonesia

The climate of Indonesia

There isn't any time of year that's bad to visit Indonesia but the weather systems do vary significantly from place to place. Knowing the climate, sometimes, can be essential to picking the right place to go.

Overall, climate across Indonesia is driest and least humid from about June to August, when most tourists travel to Bali. Shoulder periods (Apr-May and Sep-Oct) are popular for escaping crowds.

Rainfall

Annual rainfall decreases further southeast. The west (Sumatra & Java) are more influenced by monsoon than the east (Lesser Sundas, Bali) where it tends to be quite dry, even in the ‘wet’ season. The closer you go to the equator (North Sulawesi, Sumatra, Kalimantan), the less distinction between the seasons and the higher the overall rainfall.

  • Indonesia is not in the typhoon belt, so cyclones are exceedingly rare!

Temperature 

Temperature and rainfall also varies significantly with altitude.

  • Rainfall increases with altitude, so climbing volcanoes is best in the dry.
  • Similarly, the West Papua highlands can have 900mm of rain in the wet (which translates into heavy snowfall in the highest elevations). 
  • Average temperatures fall by between 6-10 degrees celsius for every 1,000m elevation.

This means that even in the warmest and most humid islands, such as Sumatra, a lot of highland experiences are comfortable and even during the most humid months, travel is possible and comfortable if you choose the right destination.

Temperatures are consistently in the high 20s to low-30s degrees celsius. Rainfall is most frequent from October to March, except east of the Moluccas, including West Papua where it’s opposite, from about mid-June to September.

A few simple rules

  • Temperatures are relatively consistent year-round.
  • The closer you go to the equator, the wetter it gets and the less distinction between the wet and dry seasons (N KALIMANTAN, N SULAWESI, PAPUA).
  • The further south-east you go, the drier it gets (EAST JAVA, BALI, KOMODO, FLORES).
  • The further south-east you go, the later the dry season gets
  • The wet season is the opposite in RAJA AMPAT (but WEST PAPUA highlands are very wet in the warmest months).
  • The higher in altitude you go, the wetter and cooler it gets.

Experiences