Indonesia Vacation

With heavenly tropical beaches, pulsating cities, breathtaking natural landscapes and a fusion of fascinating cultures packed into more than 18,000 islands, the Republic of Indonesia is a truly diverse destination. Explore Indonesia’s cultural heartland in Java, traverse dense jungle in Sumatra and relax on a beautiful palm-lined beach in Bali. Sail around this magnificent archipelago and discover the wealth of culture in each region. See magnificent Islamic mosques, Hindu temples and sultans’ palaces or enjoy a unique gong-like Indonesian gamelan and a shadow puppet performance.

For a tropical beach paradise, visit the tiny island of Bali in Indonesia’s central south. Swim in the warm waters or surf the rolling breaks on Bali’s beautiful beaches. Rejuvenate your senses at a beachfront wellness center with a spa or massage treatment. Hike along mountain ridges to Mount Batur for breathtaking volcano views. Wander through Ubud Monkey Forest to see the rainforest’s scenic greenery, sacred stone carvings, ancient temples and playful monkeys. See magnificent Hindu temples amid lush rice terraces and water gardens, such as Gunung Kawi, Saraswati and Klungung.

Indonesia is a world-famous scuba diving destination. Explore brilliantly varied hues of the reefs and see tropical underwater life at Bunaken, Wakatobi and the Gili Islands. For the archipelago’s best surf spots, charter a private boat tour across the Mentawai Islands, off Sumatra’s west coast.

Explore Java and the capital city of Jakarta, a bustling metropolis, filled with fantastic shopping, arts institutions and cultural treasures. See traditional puppet and dance shows in Yogyakarta, explore the ancient Buddhist monument at Borobudur and admire the stunning spires of the Prambanan Hindu temples.

Try regional Indonesian cuisine. Sample delicious gado-gado, seasonal vegetables with peanut sauce, or traditional nasi goreng fried rice. Street vendors (warung) and eating houses (rumah makan) sell simple, authentic meals and drinks. Indonesian etiquette requires eating with only your right hand if utensils are unavailable.

Reach Indonesia by plane or boat. Explore the archipelago by air, ferry, bus or rented car or scooter. Passenger trains also operate on Java and Sumatra. Indonesia has a warm climate year-round with a wet season between October and April.