BEYOND BALI: MORE THAN BEACHES AND BINTANGS

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or consider yourself more of a first-timer, odds are a visit to Indonesia ranks high on your list. This beautiful archipelago has beguiled people for decades and is drawing more visitors each year with its radically diverse landscape and friendly locals. The islands are home to a vibrant, rich culture; not to mention the tropical beaches, volcanoes and jungles you’ll find at every turn.

If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ll have seen most of your mates travel to Bali to spend blissful holidays in the likes of Kuta & Seminyak, bintang in hand and watching some epic sunsets. But we’re telling you, when it comes to planning your visit to Indonesia? There’s a whole host of adventure further out there.

So without further ado, we’ve done the work for you: here’s our absolute BUCKET LIST for travel to Indonesia!

UBUD, INDONESIA

Tucked away in the jungles of Bali, Ubud is a foodie’s paradise. Remember Eat, Pray, Love? Channel your inner Julia Roberts and don’t miss this out on your Bali itinerary. Ubud is one of those places where people only intend to stay for a few days, but end up extending to a few weeks, months, and sometimes even years. Explore the incredible Tegallalang Rice Terraces, make an offering at a stunning Hindu temple, enjoy one of the many yoga classes on offer and of course, do not leave without trying the famous crispy duck.

CANGGU, INDONESIA

Canggu is another of Bali’s gems! The perfect jumping off spot for any of your travels around the island, from here you can surf at Berawa beach, take short trip south to see the famous sunset from Uluwatu or even hop on a boat and take a day trip to the Nusa islands, a remote rocky paradise. Canggu is known for its relaxed travellers vibe, with plenty of beaches, surfing, local markets, shopping and delicious cafes – you will not regret spending a day or two here.

MENJANGAN ISLAND, INDONESIA

Off the rarely visited northwest coast of Bali is Menjangan Island, another one of Indonesia’s many slices of paradise. This beautiful island, aptly named after the many deer that you can spot here, is protected within the Bali Barat National Park and enjoys a thriving and diverse marine life with vibrant reefs and towering coral walls. If you love snorkelling and swimming, this will no doubt be a highlight of your trip. Don’t miss out on visiting the Biorock Project either, the largest coral planting project in the world. You can even sponsor a baby coral yourself!

GILI T, INDONESIA

Just a hop, skip and jump away from Bali lies Gili T, the largest of the famous Gili Islands. Located just a short boat ride from both Lombok and Bali, Gili T is a great location to base yourself if you’re wanting to visit the beautiful surrounding islands like Lombok or Gili Air. Of course it didn’t get its reputation for no reason, it’s got tons of things to do! Popular with backpackers, you can island hop, dive, swim with turtles and check out underwater statues – all in the pristine turquoise waters a stone’s throw from the island. Gili T, Indonesia is a tropical dream for anyone who likes diving, catching a gorgeous sunset and cycling! (Yes, there’s no cars allowed!)

MOUNT BROMO, INDONESIA

Much beyond our beloved parts of Bali, is East Java. Another entire region in Indonesia, so different that it has its own language! This country is certainly famous for its volcanoes, there’s 127 active ones! But Mount Bromo is definitely one of the most famous and beloved volcanoes in the archipelago. This fiery peak belongs to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java and sits on a plane called the Sea of Sand. Your journey towards the peak will have you feeling like you’re on Mars, and your climb to the crater will reward you with a gorgeous, uninterrupted, panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. You can’t visit Indonesia without hiking up this famous volcano, and ideally catching a sunrise from the very top. Trust us, it’s worth the early start!

RED ISLAND, Indonesia

After expending all your energy hiking volcanoes, the natural next stop is Red Island. Situated perfectly on the way back to Bali, this spot is why East Java is such a hidden gem. A stunning, long beach, breath-taking scenery and the quietest waves you’ll ever surf. Yes, you heard us right! Waves in Indonesia that AREN’T crowded with people! We actually spend 2 days here on our 12 day tour, hanging out at the beachfront surf camp with the legends at Mojo Surf.

If this sounds like the trip of your dreams, it’s all included in our 12-Day Bali and East Java tour! Click hereto book now and read more about our adventures in Indonesia.