Indonesia Beyond Bali

Being an island nation, it’s no surprise that one of the best ways to explore Indonesia is by boat.

Cruise between islands in Komodo National Park’s protected waterways, dropping anchor to swim and snorkel from the boat, or venture further east (depending on the season) to the wilder reaches of Raja Ampat and West Papua. Whether on a shared cruise or private charter, there’s nothing like the feeling of setting a course across these azure waters, with just a dash of on-board luxury to elevate the experience.

This kind of route makes a phenomenal family trip to Indonesia, especially for those travelling with teenagers, as Selective Asia’s Karl discovered on his own Indonesia family sailing adventure. Swim with whale sharks, snorkel with turtles, get hands-on with coral conservation and pause to see the sun set from secluded beaches. Be inspired with our Sailing Indonesia route and take your pick of the various vessels cruising through the archipelago.

We’re as guilty as the next travel enthusiast for using the phrase “just like Bali was 20 years ago” to describe some of Indonesia’s less-visited islands, but although the phrase is a little naff, there is something true in the sentiment. Lombok and Sumba are both distinctive islands in their own right, with rich traditions and unique character, but in many ways they offer a similar vibe to what Bali is famous for. However, they both have a more relaxed, less frenetic atmosphere than some of Bali’s busier parts, and there is a determination that overtourism won’t take hold.

Lay back on soft sands, with the sounds of the waves lulling you to sleep, or (at the other end of the energy spectrum!), venture out on a hike up the volcanic slopes of Mount Rinjani. For a taste of the really remote, sail out to traffic-free Gili Meno to snorkel in clear waters over vibrant reefs and sit in stillness on the beach

Nicknamed the ‘forgotten island’ in some travel circles, Sumba exemplifies slow travel, having somehow stayed outside of the well-trodden travel routes for many years. Get a glimpse into traditional Kodi culture in the island’s small village communities, watch surfing breaks crash against Nihiwatu beach and trek through swathes of untouched rainforest.

Indonesia’s rich history touches every corner of the world, with everyone from traders and artists to scoundrels and pirates crossing paths between its islands over the centuries. The country’s spectrum of culture and heritage is truly kaleidoscopic, with each island having different identities, traditions, customs and legends; everything from ancient spiritual enlightenment to cutting-edge technical revolution is represented in full colour. The saying that it’s like a dozen different countries in one really rings true, and if you love a good story, Indonesia offers them by the hundred.

Java’s magnificent temples stand proud against the skyline, and you can wander serenely between decorative stupas from Borobudur to Prambanan and beyond. The wide-eyed wonder of the region’s spice trade lives on in the fragrant fields of West Papua and the Moluccas, and Sulawesi’s unique funeral ceremonies really stand out. Cycle through Ambon’s markets and drift between the remote reefs and stilt houses of Seram on our Hint of Spice journey, or glimpse the depths of Sulawesi’s culture, from the boat-roofed Tongkonan houses to the striking memorial displays, with our Ritual Union route.

Despite its famed temples, and being home to the nation’s glittering capital city, Java as a whole can sometimes get a little overlooked, and treated as simply a hop-in-hop-out point for visitors heading to Indonesia’s wider reaches. We recommend giving Indonesia’s crowning island a closer look, exploring its subtleties and details.

Selective Asia specialist Andrew took a fresh look at Java, from the contrasts of Jakarta’s glass-and-neon meets ancient stone, to the artisan energies of Yogyakarta, chilly sunrises over volcanic plains and (of course!) eating plenty of outstanding food along the way.

Java is also one of the best places to see that Indonesia’s islands are far from silent terrain! Formed over thousands of years, and changing with each shift of the Earth’s plates, the whole archipelago is made of volcanic giants, forming its past, present and future. Java is home to two of the finest: Bromo and Ijen. Compare these Smoking Gunungs rising over the landscape on a Java-centric journey, or contrast Java’s high contemporary energy with laid-back Lombok on a route exploring a fascinating Tale of Two Islands.

Indonesia’s wildlife diversity is unsurpassed, with several species not found anywhere else in the world. Protecting their habitats is vital to these species thriving, and responsible wildlife tourism plays a huge part in ensuring these natural environments are preserved, treasured and, crucially, that conservation efforts are well funded. Indonesia’s most famous species is, arguably, the orangutan, found solely on the island of Borneo, including the Indonesian region of Kalimantan, and further west on Sumatra. Take a traditional klotok boat along the waterways of Tanjung Puting National Park, looking out for glimpses of russet fur along the riverbank.

Coming in a close second for the title of ‘Indonesia’s most well-known unique species’ is the Komodo Dragon. These giant, sleepy, venomous members of the monitor lizard family are found living wild within Komodo National Park, and their habitats are fiercely protected. Visitor numbers to Komodo and Rinca are tightly controlled, and these islands are sometimes closed for a time if the landscape needs a break. Visit with care as part of a sailing journey through Komodo National Park, and see the dedicated conservation in action.

The wildlife beneath Indonesia’s waves is nothing short of phenomenal, and a big reason many head for these shores. Keen divers and snorkellers can spend many happy hours drifting through crystal waters in the company of turtles, manta rays, whale sharks and octopuses, along with hundreds of smaller reef-dwelling creatures such as seahorses and angel fish. You can even get hands-on with coral conservation, to help preserve and regenerate these delicate environments.

Hopefully the above has made it pretty clear that, while avoiding sounding like too much of a cliche, the vast variety of experiences, landscapes and cultures mean that Indonesia really can be your oyster. Whatever vision you have for your trip, Indonesia pretty much has an answer somewhere across its wide and diverse scattering of islands.

Putting these elements together into a hitch-free itinerary is, however, a little more tricky, as things are widely spaced apart, but our specialists are dab hands at creating tailored and individual routes with super-smooth logistics. If you’re lucky enough to have a month or more to spend exploring the country, get a little inspiration for how to start imagining your own Indonesian Odyssey.

And we’re not writing off Bali, by any means! Its legendary reputation comes from excellent grounding, and despite its recently over-visited parts, there are still many ways to weave a little Bali magic into an Indonesia trip. You just have to know the secrets to where to go on this gem of an island to avoid the crowds.

Step aside, Ubud – it’s time to showcase Another Bali. Stay in Sidemen’s serene surroundings, see local farming life in Umabian, and discover stretches of sand that deliver the full picture postcard experience from Pekutatan to Tulamben.

Sidemen has been the lesser-known little sibling to Ubud for ages, and it’s a great alternative if you’re looking for pleasantly bustling markets, relaxing retreats and beautiful surroundings. From the many excellent resorts scattered through the surrounding hills, we do especially love the Wapa di Ume. Unwind in rather blissful suites, and cycle out between the rice field for a breath of fresh air.

Get in touch with our Indonesia Specialists to plan your trip.