If serene temples, epic volcanoes and surf beaches are your thing – then Indonesia is for you. Envision an incredible archipelago, popping with traditional culture, amazing food and new experiences every time you switch an island.
You’ve got Bali, a true paradise with perfect waves and smiling faces. Climb Mt Batur for sunrise, wander through rice paddies in Ubud and get a massage or ten in Sanur. On the beaches of Lombok, snorkel tropical reefs and walk through villages humming with day-to-day traditional life. There are so many experiences to be had in Indonesia.
READ MORE: 8 REASONS TO TRY AN ADVENTURE CRUISE IN INDONESIA
Not far over the waves kick back on the neighbouring twin isles of sun and sand perfection – known as the Gilis. Then there’s Java, adorned with ancient temple ruins and more impressive volcanic landscapes waiting to be explored. Here’s why a trip to Indonesia should be on the cards.
Our 10 reasons to travel to Indonesia
1. There’s smokin’ hot trails to hike
Image by Dudarev Mikhail
There are more than 150 volcanoes in Indonesia. 127 of these are active. There are hiking trails in and around most of the islands. Mt Bromo (East Java), Mt Agung and Mt Batur (Bali) and are some of the best-known volcanoes you can hike that’ll give you out of this world views.
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2. Indonesia is home to world’s largest (and smelliest) flower
Random, we know. The world’s largest flower, appropriately dubbed ‘the corpse flower’, is found in the jungles of Indonesia and holds a distinct aroma that lures in insects to make its meal.
3. It’s the perfect place for the ultimate island-hopping adventure
Image by iunewind
There’s around 17,500 islands (the exact number is debated) in Indonesia. It’s easy and relatively cheap to get around by boat or to take a flight between cities.
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4. The archipelago is a snorkeler’s paradise
Image by Dudarev Mikhail
Indonesia has the second longest coastline in the world and is home to a host of snorkelling hot spots throughout the country.
5. You can visit both hemispheres in one country
Indonesia sits on both sides of the equator. You can expect a tropical climate throughout Indonesia with more rain and temperate conditions found in the highlands.
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6. The capital is in the Top 10 of most Instagrammed cities
Jakarta falls into the Top 10 of most featured cities on Instagram world-wide. The city’s impressive skyline, tantalising cuisine and urban lifestyle are some of the most frequent shots posted on social.
7. You can meet a real dragon
Image by Richard Susanto
Komodo dragons are the biggest lizards on the planet with a recorded length of more than three metres! They can be found on the islands of Komodo, Flores and Gili Motang.
8. Indonesian food is really tasty
Image by Kzenon
The national dish of Indonesia is a bowl of spicy fried rice goodness called nasi goreng. It’s no coincidence you’ll find Indonesian restaurants so popular around the world – being home to beef rendang, nasi uduk (another delicious mixed rice dish) and the infamous sate skewers. Plus, there’s lots of markets to explore.
9. Indonesia is full of adventure
You can hike, bike or raft your way around most of the country. And it’s easy to get away from the tourist trail – even in Bali.
10. And it’s most likely within your reach
Let’s face it. Not all of us have pockets deep enough for a luxury holiday. Indonesia is relatively affordable and offers friendly vibes, outdoor adventure and a cultural buzz travellers can’t get enough of.
Explore Indonesia now on a small group adventure with Intrepid. Check out our range here!
Feature image by Patrick O’Neil
