Indonesia

Language: Bahasa Indonesia)

Currency: Rupiah

Religion: Islam, Hinduism (Bali)

Timezone: GMT+7 to +9

Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, is a staggering tapestry of over 17,000 islands that stretch across the equator like a string of pearls. Smoking craters of volcanic peaks can be found near ancient Hindu and Buddhist monuments, and primeval jungles and jaw-dropping coral reefs are still home to some of the world’s most charismatic species.

Whether you are seeking a deep spiritual retreat in the popular backpacker centre of Bali, an encounter with prehistoric giants in Komodo, or a dive into the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs, Indonesia offers an intensity of experience that is hard to match. Heritage and religion are celebrated through festivals, rituals and intricate arts and crafts, all underpinned by the genuine, warm hospitality of its diverse ethnic groups.

Highlights and hidden gems

Step into a world of ancient grandeur in Yogyakarta at Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, and the towering Hindu spires of Prambanan, both of which showcase the cultural history of Central Java.
Ubud, Bali’s artistic and spiritual soul, may be chaotically busy, but it’s still well worth a trip to hike through stunning emerald green rice terraces, explore cultural museums and art galleries, and retreat to holistic wellness centres.
Hop on a boat through the rugged volcanic landscapes of Komodo National Park for a rare face-to-face encounter with the world’s largest and most prehistoric lizards.
Trek through the dense, primeval rainforests of Gunung Leuser National Park in search of wild orangutans in one of their last remaining natural strongholds.
Kick back on the car-free Gili Islands off Lombok where cycling past palm groves to find the perfect sunset spot and snorkelling in turquoise waters teeming with sea turtles is the norm.

Roam over to West Bali National Park, a peaceful wilderness of monsoon forests and mangroves that offers world-class snorkelling around the secluded reefs of Menjangan Island.
Challenge yourself with a trek up mighty Mount Rinjani on Lombok, where a gruelling ascent is rewarded with a spectacular sunrise over a turquoise crater lake and steaming hot springs.
Venture off the beaten path to Sumba, a remote island where ancient megalithic tombs, traditional high-roofed villages, and wild, empty beaches offer a glimpse into an Indonesia unchanged by time.
Explore the unique cultural landscapes of Sulawesi, from the elaborate ship-shaped houses and fascinating funeral rites of Tana Toraja to the bizarre endemic wildlife found in its steamy jungles.
Journey to the far reaches of West Papua to experience Raja Ampat, an archipelago of limestone karsts and sapphire lagoons that holds some of the planet’s best diving and most diverse marine life.

Where to stay

Top stay

Misool Eco Resort

Misool Eco Resort was established to conserve the region’s rich marine biodiversity. This paradisical stay is situated within a 300,000-acre Marine Protected Area, among an archipelago of uninhabited islands in the remote southern region of Raja Ampat, Indonesia. Accommodation features Balinese-style open-air bathrooms with breezy views and easy access to nearby dive sites. Diving is the main draw here. It’s the best in the world. The House Reef is even just a few fin kicks away from Misool’s accommodation.

Indonesia

Highlights and hidden gems

Where to stay

Top stay

Misool Eco Resort

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