Active Adventures in Indonesia
Stretching more than 4000km from east to west, Indonesia’s sprawling, island-packed jungle archipelago offers many opportunities for active and adventurous travellers. Superb diving and snorkelling showcase a diverse and colourful underwater seascape, while above the water, challenging surf breaks draw bold board-riders from around the world. On land, trekking, cycling, white-water rafting and wildlife watching all combine in a landscape of rugged peaks, tropical jungles, and surging rivers.
Indonesia is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, and earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are not uncommon and may affect travel to some regions. However, there is no shortage of adventure here for those willing to explore.
Hiking and Trekking
Indonesia’s location extending along the equator means that trekking conditions can often be challenging. This immense country offers everything, however, from multi-week expeditions across the mountains of central Borneo to gentle family strolls among the paddies of Ubud. Because of the hot, tropical climate, the most idyllic trekking is usually in the highlands. The rolling hills of Tana Toraja in Sulawesi offer perfect trekking conditions amid picturesque landscapes, even by Indonesian standards.
- Consider Bukittinggi in Sumatra, one of the world’s most underrated trekking bases.
- The mountains of Flores, ridged with more than 17 spectacular volcanoes, present great trekking regions that also take you through traditional villages.
- Even on Bali, it’s possible to get off the beaten track in the virtually unknown valleys around Sidemen Road.
Diving and Snorkelling
The Coral Triangle, spanning mostly Indonesian waters, contains about 75% of the world total of coral species, which means there is more than enough to explore below water. Nusa Lembongan’s manta rays and sunfish attract hundreds of Bali-based snorkellers each day, and the Gili Islands are also a haven for snorkellers.
- Diving the walls and reefs around little Menjangan Island on Bali’s northwest tip can surpass even the famous Maldives.
- While technical divers can test their skills, even casual snorkellers can enjoy spots like Komodo’s ‘Manta Alley’ where giant manta rays loom like spaceships.
- Raja Ampat has quickly gained a reputation for spectacular beauty and world-class diving experiences among whale sharks and an estimated 1427 species of fish.
Rafting and Kayaking
For an island renowned for its waves, Bali has a variety of tranquil waters for paddling. The entire north coast features turquoise reefs visited by dolphins, turtles, and even whales, along with mangrove-fringed inlets. It’s possible to rent kayaks from beaches at Lovina and Pemuteran as well as from many resorts.
- At West Bali’s Menjangan, paddle through an inlet inhabited by wild deer and over reefs swarming with tropical fish.
- For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, Ayung River near Ubud is the country’s most popular Grade II-III white water rafting haven.
- West Java’s Citarak River offers wilder Grade IV white water thrills, alongside options in Tana Toraja for those seeking multi-day experiences.
Volcano Climbing
Indonesia boasts more active volcanoes than any other country, with an estimated 127. Although eruptions can occasionally hinder access, many of Indonesia’s volcanoes offer excellent trekking opportunities. The early morning trek up Bali’s Batur volcano draws hundreds of hikers each day, and East Java’s dramatic Kawah Ijen is another popular destination.
- Stunning volcanic landscapes can be found in Tomohon, northern Sulawesi, and the highlands around Bandung, West Java.
- Gunung Batukaru is the second-highest peak on Bali, yet it rarely sees trekkers, providing incredible views.
Surfing
G-Land in Java, Uluwatu in Bali, and the Point at Lagundri Bay, Nias – Indonesia has been a surfing paradise since long before the term “surfari” was coined. The Bukit Peninsula in southern Bali, along with nearby Seminyak and Canggu, have become epicentres for recent surfing explorations. Any surfer complaining about crowded waves should remember that in a country with more than 50,000km of coastline, unsurfed waves are always to be found if you look for them.
- The Mentawai Islands off Sumatra have long attracted dedicated surfers.
- Emerging hotspots known as ‘the new Bali’ include the islands of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara and Krui in South Sumatra.
- Rote, south of West Timor, is also gaining a reputation for top-class waves.
Wildlife Watching
Wildlife enthusiasts will find countless opportunities to spot diverse species during their adventures in Indonesia. This country is the only habitat for two species of orangutans; Borneo orangutans thrive in Tanjung Puting National Park, while Bukit Lawang provides access to rarer Sumatran apes. Looking for Komodo dragons? Komodo Island has become synonymous with adventurous Southeast Asian safaris, but head to neighbouring Rinca for a more unpredictable experience.
- Explore West Bali National Park, home to various monkeys, deer, wild pigs, and incredible bird life, perfect for educational family outings.
- As you journey east of Bali, you’ll encounter unique wildlife patterns illustrating the diverse ecosystems of Indonesia.
- Kerinci Seblat National Park offers glimpses of elephants, clouded leopards, and the last viable population of Sumatran tigers.
Cycling
Depending on your stamina and dedication, the looming walls of Bali’s volcanoes could represent a challenge of Tour de France proportions or a delightful free-wheeling descent. Traffic can be heavy on Bali; however, cycling tour operators can transport you to the heights and guide you back down the peaceful roads that cut along the ridges and paddies. Car-free islands like the Gili Islands and Nusa Lembongan are perfect for family cycling adventures.
- For a memorable road trip, try the 666km Trans-Flores Highway.
- Bali’s flatter and less crowded north coast road presents unique communities few visitors ever see.
Sustainable Travel
While overtourism has contributed to numerous social and environmental problems in Indonesia, sustainable tourism is also providing viable solutions. Various initiatives and organisations have stepped in to address ecological and local community needs in critically impacted areas. Both global and local organisations work to prevent further eco-damage and raise awareness of indigenous tribes to help them thrive.
Indonesia’s growing fleet of liveaboard boats, especially traditionally-built pinisi (indigenous Bugis tall-ships), is paving the way for eco-friendly accommodation across remote areas. In lesser-known and culturally rich archipelagos like Alor and Maluku, these boats often serve as the sole accommodation available, sourcing local products and hiring local guides to support these communities and keep indigenous cultures alive.
