In the southeast of Asia lies Indonesia, an archipelago that consists of some 17.000 islands. Deciding on which of those islands to visit depends on what it is you want to see. As I wanted to explore a bit of wildlife, nature, and the cultural side of the country, I narrowed it down to the islands of Sumatra, Java, Komodo and Bali, spending a total of 3 weeks.
The orangutans of Sumatra
Deep in the jungles of Sumatra, one of Indonesia’s biggest islands, is where you can spot one of the most interesting of the ape species…the orangutan. Here, with the help of a guide, you can observe them in their natural environment as the gently swing from tree to tree, some carrying their young with a firm grip. They are very curious animals and it’s not unusual to be caught in a staring contest.
After spending a couple days with these magnificent creatures, it made me realize how important it is to protect them and their habitat. Unfortunately, their habitat is slowly disappearing due to the encroachment of farming or palm oil plantations onto the jungles that once thrived. In the Gunung Leuser National Park, the locals are currently doing their best to protect the orangutans from disappearing for good.
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Ancient temples and volcanos of Java
On the island of Java, you can appreciate a bit of history by stopping at the ancient Buddhist temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. At Borobudur, you can stand alongside the massive bell-shaped stone structures that decorate this temple. This place is best visited at sunrise, when the sunlight just begins to come through and the temple transform into a mysterious place.
The next highlight of Java is the impressive Bromo volcano. Located in East Java, it’s one of the most iconic and active volcanoes in the country. Bromo often emits white smoke from its crater, creating a perfect photo-op, especially at sunrise when the surrounding mountains are illuminated in golden light. Get there before dawn to give you enough time to climb the mountain across from Bromo and wait for sunrise.
Komodo island, home to the Komodo dragon
One group of islands that’s usually overlooked by tourists visiting Indonesia are the Komodo Islands. Because of its remoteness and difficulty to get there, most people skip this area. But as a wildlife enthusiast, I couldn’t pass on exploring this region known for the Komodo dragons. These are the world’s largest lizards with muscular bodies, powerful tails, and sharp claws. They are notoriously known for having lethal venom in their saliva, capable of killing large prey such as deer and water buffalo. In the good hands of a guide, I explored these islands on foot to see these magnificent animals relatively close and always at a safe distance, respecting their boundaries. I encountered Komodo dragons deep in the thick bush but also on the beaches early in the morning as they searched for food. This was truly one of the highlights of visiting Indonesia.
The temples and rice fields of Bali and Nusa Penida
My last stop in Indonesia was the island of Bali. The lush and tropical natural settings of Bali combined with Buddhist temples is what makes this island the most popular for visitors to Indonesia. Spend some time wandering through the terraced rice fields at sunset for an unforgettable experience.
On nearby Nusa Penida, I rented a scooter and spent two full days exploring this small island as well as squeezing some great scuba diving, if that’s your thing. Nusa Penida is a very spiritual island and the friendly locals welcome you into their temples and shrines. The view over Kelingking beach where the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches meet is spectacular.
Spending time on these last islands was the great way to end a beautiful trip to Indonesia. Hopefully one day I will be back to explore more of the beauty this island nation beholds!
