Published on February 19, 2021
No matter how you choose to explore the natural world, Indonesia has you covered. In our latest nature coverage in Southeast Asia, we explore the natural wonders that make Indonesia such an incredible destination to visit. Animal lovers can get up close with stingless jellyfish while diving at Kakaban Island and stroll alongside the Sumatran elephant at Way Kambas National Park. Serenity seekers will find what they’re looking for while camping at Ngitun Beach, overlooking the Raja Ampat archipelago, and when taking in Lake Toba, Indonesia’s largest lake, thanks to its status as a crater. A visit to Tetebatu allows travelers to see the delicate ways Indonesians connect and live in balance with nature. As for adventurers, Mount Bromo Surabaya and Gunung Kerinci are incredible hikes. The latter holds the title of the tallest volcano in Southeast Asia, no small feat. Here are some of the nature spots you won’t want to miss on your next visit to Indonesia.
Kakaban Island
As part of the 31 Derawan Islands, Kakaban draws sea lovers to its shores. One of its most mesmerizing attractions for snorkelers and divers are the stingless jellyfish that call these waters home. Their evolution provides a captivating opportunity to take in these sea creatures up close without fear of injury. Visiting Kakaban Island will undoubtedly be an experience you’ll never forget!
Ngitun Beach
Two hours outside of the city of Yogyakarta is Ngitun Beach. Nestled between two hillsides, Ngitun is a beautiful spot to feel alone with nature. Visitors are known to camp on the lush greenery above it for an incredible view of the beach and the ocean’s waves to rock them to sleep. Grab a cozy blanket and experience it for yourself.
Raja Ampat
Off the northwest coast of West Papua is the Raja Ampat archipelago, a serene escape welcoming explorers and relaxation seekers alike. Commonly accessed by the city of Sorong, visitors to the islands have access to striking panoramic views and incredible flora. As for animal lovers, Raja Ampat is a diver’s paradise with almost 1,000 tropical fish species to discover.
Mount Bromo Surabaya
At 7,487 feet and surrounded by other peaks, Mount Bromo stands out in the East Java landscape. The active volcano is a popular hike for locals and visitors alike, accessible by a two to three-hour drive from Surabaya. The mountain is considered a holy spot by Hindus, with an annual Kesodo festival held at its peak.
Lake Toba
It’s hard to imagine given how peaceful you feel while visiting Lake Toba, but 75,000 years ago, it was the site of an immense volcanic eruption. As the biggest lake in Indonesia and the world’s largest crater lake at 436 square miles, Lake Toba is about 1.5 times the size of Singapore. The volcanic crater reaches a depth of 1,476 feet in some places across the lake.
Tetebatu
A land with rich volcanic soil, Tetebatu that has become a hub for rice and tobacco farming. Across tiered fields, farmers keep crops irrigated while creating a spectacular sight for visitors to take in. Visit this quiet countryside to look into the ways Indonesians work in beautiful synchronicity with the nature around them.
Way Kambas National Park
In Indonesia’s Lampung Province, Way Kambas National Park is home to 406 bird species and 50 mammals, including the Sumatran elephant. Visiting the ASEAN Heritage Park is an incredible opportunity to see the biodiversity of Thailand up close, as well as this majestic animal.
Gunung Kerinci
Standing as the tallest volcano in Southeast Asia, Gunung Kerinci is a beautiful sight to behold. Hikers can embark on a two-day trek, starting the second morning with sunrise at the summit. Visit the volcano at the north end of Kerinci Seblat National Park in Indonesia.
Whether you hike to the top of a volcano or calmly admire a crater lake, Indonesia will leave you with a new appreciation for nature and the other animals who call Earth home.
