Indonesia

By far the most popular island in Indonesia, Bali is home to an ancient culture famed for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional temples fringed by world class beaches and dense rainforests. Spend your days catching waves at sunrise, get a freshly made smoothie bowl for breakfast, stroll through rice paddies in the afternoon, and end the day at the beach with a Bintang in your hand watching an unforgettable sunset with your friends. If surfing isn’t your thing, head inland to Ubud and swap your morning surf session with a sunrise hike up one of the active volcanoes like Mt. Batur instead. Make sure to have your camera ready as you will feel like you are literally above the clouds watching the sunrise. Ubud is home to wonderful sights like waterfalls, rice paddies, rainforests and temples, that make you feel like you are in a different world to the beaches of Bali. Definitely an island for every type of traveller.

Hidden beaches, countless waterfalls, and epic hikes are awaiting you on Lombok. You can easily get there by speedboat/ferry. Lombok has become an increasingly popular destination as it is less touristy than Bali and has a more laid-back vibe to it. It also has epic surf breaks for both beginners and experienced surfers. On top of that, if you are on Lombok between approximately April – January, you have the chance to go on a 3-day trek up Mount Rinjani. Be aware that this trek definitely requires you to be in good physical condition as it is full of long and difficult hikes but if you do it, you will find yourself potentially camping right at the crater’s edge watching the sunrise, overlooking Mt. Agung and the island of Bali in the distance.

About a 30 minute ferry ride from Lombok, you will find the world-famous Gili Islands. The Gili Islands consists of three islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. Gili Meno is the quietest of them all and, therefore, known as a popular honeymoon spot. If you’d rather be looking for some adventure, Gili Air is your best bet as it is known to have some of the most remarkable diving and snorkelling sites. If you are looking for the ultimate party experience, Gili Trawangan, also referred to as Gili T, should be on your bucket list. Here you are pretty much guaranteed to have some memorable night outs partying with countless fellow backpackers.

Sixth largest island in the world and one of the most captivating, Sumatra boasts a mesmerising blend of natural wonders, cultural diversity, and wildlife encounters. Dense rainforests and rugged mountains meet pristine beaches with an incredibly clear sea. Sumatra offers a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The island is home to several national parks, including Gunung Leuser National Park, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan. Visitors can trek through lush jungles, spot exotic wildlife, and witness stunning volcanic landscapes, such as the iconic Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. Sumatra also holds a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant indigenous communities, traditional villages, and ancient temples scattered across the island. Sumatra is perfect for off the beaten track adventures.

Komodo, Flores, and the surrounding islands are jewels of the Indonesian archipelago, which offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Flores, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, enchants visitors with its lush rice terraces, traditional villages, and rugged coastlines. From the emerald rice fields of Ruteng to the tranquil shores of Maumere, travellers can explore its diverse terrain and immerse themselves in its unique heritage.

Neighbouring Komodo Island, part of Komodo National Park, is absolutely otherworldly – with unique landscapes and legendary inhabitants, the Komodo dragons. Visitors to Komodo can embark on thrilling treks through rugged terrain, snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the Komodo archipelago. Together, Komodo and Flores offer an unforgettable journey of discovery, where adventure awaits at every turn amidst stunning natural wonders and ancient traditions.

Known as the beating heart of Indonesia, Java is a captivating fusion of ancient vibes, buzzing cities, and jaw-dropping nature. As the hippest island in Indonesia, Java is like a melting pot of diverse cultures and landscapes. From the lively streets of Jakarta, the city that never sleeps, to the chill vibes of Borobudur’s rice fields, Java lights up with experiences for adventurers. Check out the chill Javanese scene in Yogyakarta, where you can vibe with ancient palaces and epic temples like Prambanan. Get your adrenaline pumping with volcano hikes on Mount Bromo and Mount Merapi, offering epic views and killer Instagram shots. Whether you’re vibing at bustling markets, munching on street food, or chilling in rural villages, Java is the ultimate playground for explorers seeking culture and adventure.