Indonesia is made up of 17,000 islands stretching from Sumatra in the west, covered by dense jungle and home to the endangered orangutan, to largely unexplored Papua New Guinea in the east which was once home to headhunting tribes.
Indonesia is unique in its diversity with a range of peoples, cultures, customs and animals like nowhere else. For those who search for the truly exotic, who challenge themselves with experiences that are rare and magical yet appreciate service and quality, Indonesia presents an opportunity for the ultimate travel experience.
Java is home to Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta, the old royal capital and the centre of Javanese culture. The nearby Prambanan temple complex is a fascinating Hindu temple built between the 8thand 10th centuries, while Borobudur is an awe-inspiring Buddhist structure which was buried under layers of volcanic ash from the nearby volcano Gunung Merapi until it was unearthed in 1815, 1,200 years after it was first constructed. Many volcanoes remain active on the island, with Bromo in the south being the most beautiful.
The rich culture of Bali is at once enthralling and hypnotic, and it has been called the Island of the Gods because of the thousands of Hindu temples and shrines that can be seen. Bali is known also for its natural beauty, from the coral reefs and sandy beaches to the mountains, volcanoes, hidden valleys, terraced rice fields and rivers. Ubud in the centre of the island is now considered the cultural capital of Bali and is famous as an arts and crafts hub where numerous galleries and artists workshops can be found.
Lombok is the quieter neighbour of Bali with a laid back lifestyle, stunning beaches and snorkelling amongst its coral reefs. From the Gili islands off Lombok all the way east to the shores of Papua, there is an island experience perfect for everyone. Moyo has most of its 350 sq km as a nature reserve with varied flora and fauna including macaque monkeys, deer, kites and sea eagles which make it a perfect haven for both hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The remote island of Sumba has some of the richest tribal culture in the region with Stone Age sites and traditional villages that have remained unchanged for centuries, alongside lush jungle, pristine beaches and crystal clear sea. Komodo to the east of the archipelago is home to the Komodo Dragon, a large reptile from prehistoric times whose docile look belies its fearsome nature.
Far to the east close to Papua lie the Raja Ampat islands, a magical a paradise for divers, snorkellers and underwater photographers offering enormous biological diversity, amazing marine life and beautiful landscapes both below and above the water. Each of these islands has special places in which to stay or they can be explored aboard one of the luxury yachts which sail through the beautiful waters.
The best time to travel to Indonesia depends on the region you plan to visit and the type of experiences you desire.
Indonesia has two main seasons:
Dry Season (April to October): The dry season is generally the best time to visit Indonesia, as most regions experience sunny and pleasant weather. During this period, from April to October, rainfall is minimal, and the humidity is lower, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach vacations. Popular tourist destinations such as Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are particularly enjoyable during the dry season, with clear skies and warm temperatures inviting travelers to explore their natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Wet Season (November to March): The wet season in Indonesia spans from November to March and is characterized by higher rainfall and increased humidity. While some areas can experience heavy rains and occasional floods, the wet season also offers its unique charm. The wet season can be a great time for surfing in regions like Bali, which receives larger swells.
Ultimately, the best time to travel to Indonesia depends on your preferences and priorities. If you seek dry and sunny weather for beach vacations and outdoor activities, the dry season from April to October is the ideal time to visit. On the other hand, if you are interested in exploring lush rainforests and witnessing unique wildlife, the wet season from November to March can offer a different but rewarding travel experience.