This vibrant country in Southeast Asia is the world's largest archipelago, comprising over 18,000 islands and islets. It's the 14th largest and 3rd most populated country in the world and home to an incredibly diverse range of landscapes and cultures. Indonesia is a fascinating place to travel, whether you love exploring beautiful scenery, learning about other ways of life, searching for rare wildlife, or simply relaxing in stunning surroundings.
The most famous island in Indonesia is undoubtedly Bali. The 'Island of the Gods' is the ultimate holiday destination, and many thousands of visitors flock there yearly, drawn to its beautiful coastline, world-class surf, jungled interior, and distinct culture. The neighbouring Nusa Islands, famed for their crystal clear waters and fabulous beaches, attract plenty of visitors too. But they are far from the only places worth visiting in Indonesia!
The country's largest island, Sumatra, is home to the rare Sumatran tiger, abundant volcanos and the world's largest volcanic lake. Kalimantan lets you discover indigenous cultures and eco-tourism initiatives while looking out for orangutans in the wild. Java, the most populated island, has Indonesia's bustling and vibrant capital city, Jakarta, where you can immerse yourself in modern Indonesian life and the incredible culinary scene. It's also home to Yogyakarta, the country's cultural capital, where you'll find many ancient temples, including majestic Borobudur and Prambanan.
But make sure to visit some of the smaller islands too! Like peaceful Lombok or Sumbawa, with their untouched beaches, pristine beauty and excellent surf. Or the spectacular Gili Islands, which offer a destination for every vibe, from tranquil honeymoon romance to raucous nightlife. Komodo Island National Park is the place to seek out the world's largest lizard, the deadly Komodo dragon, and maybe dive with whale sharks! And how about Raja Ampat? A paradise comprising over 1,500 islands and incredible marine biodiversity. In short, Indonesia is an intoxicating place to visit, filled with endless opportunities for creating fantastic memories and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.