40 Most Popular Things to Do in Indonesia

mahliani (25)in #travel • 7 years ago

Holiday is the best way to get re-energized after being beaten by weary routines and daily works. Put back your passport and visa, stay away from spending cash on an expensive shopping center, buckle on and let's see what Indonesia has to offer.
From the low ocean shore and lakes, waterfalls, and rainforests, to the high peak of the mountains, all are waiting to be discovered in our beloved archipelago. Starting from the western border, cruising to the east end, here are the lists you may find interesting to check.

Sumurtiga Beach – Sabang
Let’s begin from the farthest east of Indonesia—Sabang, in Aceh Province. The city consists of several small islands with many gorgeous seashores. One of them is Sumurtiga Beach.
The white sand beach has a long-stretched coastline framing the turquoise-blue ocean, adorned with scattered coconut trees. No wonder this place is referred as ‘Hawaii from Sabang’.
The tide breaks and beach formation are perfect for surfing, or you can also enjoy its underwater beauty by snorkeling. Don’t worry about lodging. Many cottages are available around the beach, easy and convenient.
Toba Lake – North Sumatera
This place is very famous for Indonesian people; almost everybody knows its name. Indeed, the beauty of Toba Lake and Samosir Island has been successfully attracting many visitors for ages, both local and international.
Initially, the lake was a giant crater, formed as a result of volcanic activity. Spanning with 100 km length and 30 km width, this lake is referred as one of the most magnificent volcanic lakes in the world. Not only the lake itself which attracts visitors, but also the pine forest around it. Travelers are free to wander into green nature, watch the splashing waterfalls, and finally, relax in the warmth of hot spring water.
That’s all? Hold on. Delving into the center of Samosir Island, you will find two rustic villages deserving a visit, namely Tomok and Tuk-tuk. In Tomok, there lies the tomb of mighty King Sidabutar. You can also observe some historical heritage at Batak Museum, or watch the Sigale-gale puppet show. And, if you are interested in staying overnight, many inns are available in Tuktuk village.
Sianok Valley – Bukittinggi
From North Sumatra, let’s head counterclockwise into the western part. We will take a stroll in Bukittinggi. As its name implies, this place is famous for its hilly contour (bukit: hills). However, it offers natural beauties beyond the green hills. One of them is Sianok valley.
Sianok valley is a deep narrow valley surrounded by steep cliffs. Cutting through the bottom of the vale, a small, thin river blissfully flows amidst the stunning landscape.
Here, travelers can enjoy the scenery while riding a bike, trekking, or taking a walk. The most important thing Sianok has to offer is tranquility. That’s why this place is called as The Silent Valley. If you happen to visit Bukittinggi, don’t forget to experience this serenity.
Kampar River – Riau
Ever wonder how is it like to surf on the river? Most of us consider surfing as a water sport which needs specific beach formation and tide calculation. Try visiting Riau, and such assumption will start to crumble.
Here in Riau lies a tremendous river where you can surf along. Famous with its Bono tide reaching to 6 meters of height, Kampar River which is located in Teluk Meranti, Pelalawan District, Riau, is a perfect destination to satisfy your surfing lust.
Foreign surfers from all over the world have been crossing the globe for the sake of taming this Bono tide. Situated right on the equator, this extraordinary surfing spot definitely will create a rush of adrenalin.
Anambas –Riau Archipelago
Located in Riau Archipelago, this area is a must-go for pristine beach seekers. Anambas, consisting of several islands, holds a wonderful beauty barely touched by human hands.
Similar to Raja Ampat, this place has been awarded by CNN as The Best Tropical Islands in Asia. The crystal clear blue sea and soft, powdery white sand, combined with colorful coral reefs and fishes certainly will charm every eager traveler coming to this place. Some say Anambas is on par with Maldives, and even better! Care to prove it yourself?
Muaro Jambi Temple – Jambi
Prambanan and Borobudur are the most well-known Temple in Indonesia; both are located in Java. But Sumatra also has several elaborate temples embracing hundreds of years of history. One of them is Muara Jambi, a Hindu-Buddhist temple located in Jambi.
This historical place is dated to Sriwijaya and Melayu Kingdom era, around the 11th century. The valuable monument has been established as a part of Integrated Historical Tourism Area on 2012 by Indonesia’s former president, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
Not only domestic visitors, on the recent years this cultural site has been attracting international tourists as well. Built as a religious sanctuary for Tantri Mahayana Buddhist, the temple is sure worth to visit.
Fort Marlborough – Bengkulu
Still venturing the historical sites of Indonesia, let’s take a couple of hours from Jambi to Bengkulu. Here, Fort Marlborough stands mightily in Teluk Segara, Kebun Keling district, Bengkulu.
This building was a relic from British colonialism. The British extended their hands in Indonesia through EIC, their trade company, around the 18th century. On 1713, they built the fort for defense in the time of war. Later, it has been referred as one of the sturdiest fort ever made by the British in its Eastern territory.
Fort Marlborough has been changing hands several times, from British to Dutch, Dutch to Japan, Japan to Indonesia, Dutch again, until finally it was being taken care of by Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture in the recent year. Now the fort is established as one of Indonesian cultural heritage and opened for public visits from 08.00 am to 05.00 pm every day.
Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Museum – Palembang
Are you fond of Pempek Palembang? This delicious dish is not the only thing Palembang has to offer. History is recorded very well here, in Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Museum, to be exact. This historical tourism site is located near Benteng Kuto Besak area.
The two-story museum was built in the Dutch colonial era, with many windows and curved gates. Here, you can find a vast collection from different fields: archaeology, biology, ethnography, art, pottery, and numismatics; all are fairly well-kept.
Their collections also include ancient coins, traditional clothing, Limas house miniature, songket garment, and various traditional musical instruments. The place is open from 08.00 a.m. to 16.00 p.m.
Parai Tenggiri Beach – Bangka Belitung
When the movie “Rainbow Troops” by Andrea Hirata hit the cinema, viewers were mesmerized by the setting where the movie took place. Yes, that was Belitung.
Here in Belitung (the locals call it Belitong), wonderful beaches with giant boulders the size of a house are common sights. Parai Tenggiri is one of them. Unlike other beaches, Parai Tenggiri has a fairly flat shore with extremely fine white sand. The shimmering turquoise-green water has been enchanting lots of visitor, especially those who fond of swimming.
You can also try fishing, parasailing, diving, or snorkeling. It is a perfect place for beach activities.
Way Kambas National Park – Lampung
What comes to mind when you hear the word Lampung? Is it the unique scent of coffee or the famous elephant reservation site? That’s quite right, Lampung is a proper place for those who are interested in the propagation of this large mammals.
The Way Kambas National Park, operating under Indonesian Ministry of Forestry and Environment is located in Labuhan Timur district, Lampung. Built in 1985, this animal reservation is the first elephant training center in Indonesia.
Other than elephant training and conservation, in Way Kambas you can also find Rhino Foundation. This place was built for rhinoceros’ conservation, protecting them from extinction. To gain access, you only have to pay 30k IDR. It doesn’t cost a pretty penny, does it?
Pulau Peucang – Banten
From the magnificent Sumatra, let’s fly to the south, in the direction of Java Island. On the western border of Java lies a small island you wouldn’t want to miss. It is called Pulau Peucang, or Peucang Island.
Located slightly to the east of Ujung Kulon National Park, the island holds an enthralling beauty. Established as one of UNESCO cultural heritage, Pulau Peucang owns many exotic floras and faunas. Most of them are endemic to Java Island, such as deer, Javanese bull, green peacock, Javanese lutung (monkey), and many more.
To enjoy its white sand beach and sparkling blue ocean, you need to depart from a small harbor in Sumur District (about 9 hours from Tangerang). However, the long journey will be paid off, once you step foot on this hidden paradise of Banten.
Kepulauan Seribu – DKI Jakarta
Tired of a big city? Planning to escape anywhere but Jakarta? Wait. Jakarta is not only about the traffic jam, skyscraper, hotels and luxurious shopping center. If you shift to the north, to Kepulauan Seribu (also known as Seribu Archipelago or Thousand Islands), you will find a paradise, still under the roof of Jakarta.
Beyond the magnificent coastal scenery, Kepulauan Seribu National Park is also famous for its nature conservation. Your weekend getaway won't cost a fortune but remain extraordinarily awesome. Try island hopping by boat, for example. This small archipelago provides several beautiful islands such as Kahyangan, Pabelokan, Bidadari, Onrust Island, and many more.
The crystal clear blue sea creates a perfect spot for snorkeling and enjoying underwater scenery. Diving is also possible. Or you can leisurely watch the sunset while bathing in the warmth of its white sand. To get there, you should depart by boat from Ancol Harbor. The journey lasts only 3 hours, and you will be far away from the bustling city.
Kawah Putih – Bandung, West Java
If the harsh sunshine on the beach is too much for you, let’s try a cooler shade. Heading to the soothing breeze of Ciwidey, in the southern part of Bandung, your weekend getaway will be a tranquil one. Surrounded by greeneries on a higher altitude, Kawah Putih is a perfect place to calm your mind.
Located about 50 km from the flamboyant city, this place was actually a crater, formed as a result of volcanic activity of Mount Patuha. The land around this volcanic lake is completely white because of its sulfur content. Interestingly, the lake itself could change color, depending on the sulfur concentration, temperature, and climate.
Because of its high altitude, around 2.400 above sea level, visitors are suggested to wear warmer clothing to fight chilly temperature. The entrance ticket only costs you 15.000 IDR, and it includes several facilities around the lake, such as prayer room, toilet, and parking lot. There are also restaurants and small food stalls. As the road is quite steep and narrow, transportation from the gate up to the lake is provided by the administrator, complete with experienced driver.
Pelabuhan Ratu – Sukabumi
Ever heard of the legendary figure Nyi Roro Kidul? Rumor has it that the mystical queen of southern beach dwells here, in Pelabuhan Ratu Beach, Sukabumi.
The beach itself is very famous among locals, thanks to the folklore. As it is located on the southern side of Java Island, the waves are quite harsh, and giant rocks are common along the coast.
Here you will find a historical building, namely Samudra Beach Hotel, which was built by the help of Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno.
Old Town of Semarang – Central Java
Now, let's venture to the center of the island, right into the capital city of Central Java Province, Semarang. The city offers a complete package, consisting of various tourist spots. You can choose practically anything, from historical, cultural, culinary, or nature. One of the famous and stunning tourist spots is the Old Town (or Kota Lama according to the locals).
In the Dutch colonial era, this 31-ha area was built as a trade center. Various historical buildings are scattered around, such as Tawang Train Station, Tawang water reservoir, dome-shaped Blenduk Church, and Mberok Bridge. This place was also called Little Netherland, for its design which resembles the characteristics of Dutch cities in their original land.
Karimun Jawa Archipelago – Jepara, Central Java
Still in Central Java, after a couple of hours driving from Semarang, you will arrive in Jepara. Not only famous as the birthplace of Indonesian national heroine Kartini, but the humble city also hides a magnificent natural beauty. A journey to the north, about 1,5 hours by boat, will lead you to Karimun Jawa Island.
It has been long recognized as a popular snorkeling spot for international travelers. Several islands in this place remain uninhabited, resulting in pristine beaches, housing more than 90 varieties of coral reefs and 240 species of marine fish.
On the interior of the main island, you can find mangrove forest with various animals, such as deer, ape, and birds. No wonder this place is referred as Javanese Carribean by the tourists.
‘Chicken Church’ – Magelang, Central Java
Rangga and Cinta apparently hit several nice places for their romantic journey in AADC 2. After trekking through a thick forest in one scene, they arrived at an old abandoned building. Later when the sunray illuminated, the building revealed itself as a colossal chicken-shaped church.
Although the locals call it “Chicken Church”, originally it was meant to be a giant dove. In its early years, the church served rehabilitation program, among other charities. However, it was abandoned in 2000, when the fund was scarce.
From the rooftop, you can see the monumental Borobudur Temple silhouetted against the sky, more magnificent if you watch it when the sun rises through the wafting mist.
Siung Beach – Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is not only about history and culture, but also nature. One of the wonderful beaches you will find here is Pantai Siung in Gunungkidul.
Located in Tepus district, the beach spreads its white sand and exhibits turquoise blue sea. The atmosphere tends to be tranquil and serene, not so many people know this place. Faraway from the hustle and bustle of big cities, the beach is perfect for a quiet getaway.
It takes two hours to reach the place from Yogyakarta city center, passing through small roads surrounded by limestone hills and crop fields.
Canting Mas Puncak Dipowono – Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta
Still in Yogyakarta, let’s head to Kulon Progo district, where you will find fascinating scenery called Canting Mas Puncak Dipowono. Located in Hargowilis Village, Kokap, the place is considered an integral part of the famous Kalibiru tourist attraction.
Canting Mas Puncak Dipowono offers the gorgeous scenery of Waduk Sermo, the extravagant water reservoir in Central Java. You can also get picturesque scenery of Yogyakarta, Bantul, and Wates, from high above. And finally, cap your day by watching the sunset from Dipowono peak. For those interested in photography, this place is a must-go.
Air Terjun Kedung Pedut – Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta
If you are still in the mood of a quiet getaway, stay a bit longer at Kulon Progo. Explore another attraction it has to offer: the impressive Kedung Pedut Waterfall. Located in Girimulyo Kulon Progo, this natural wonder boasts an awe-inspiring beauty.
The rustling sound, splashing water, and the light breeze surely will calm any wandering soul. Another interesting part is the water pool beneath which displays two shades of colors: blue and white.
To reach the waterfall, you need to tread along a narrow trail for 15 minutes. However, the spectacular sight is worth the effort.
Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park – East Java
Proceeding to East Java, we will start the journey from Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. This tourist attraction spans across four regencies in the province, providing various choices of astounding scenery—from the mountain itself, Bromo and Semeru; sand field; Madakaripura Waterfall; lakes (Ranu Pane and Ranu Kumbolo); to the beach called Pantai Berbisik, or Whispering Beach.
The access to most of the places is quite straightforward. As you follow the route to Mount Bromo, you will encounter other attractions along the road. However, the road uphill normally needs a skillful driver.
Kawah Ijen – Banyuwangi, East Java
The exoticism of East Java doesn’t stop at the boundary of Mount Bromo. Rather, it extends along the mountain range. In Banyuwangi, you will find stunning scenery called Kawah Ijen.
Kawah Ijen is the biggest sulfur lake in Java, formed initially as a mountain crater. Visitors are recommended to observe the breathtaking view early before dawn when the crater emits rivers of light streaming down the mountain. This dazzling blue and the turquoise flame are resulted from combustion of sulfuric gasses. The gasses condense into liquid sulfur as they come in contact with cold air, and continue sparkling as they flow down the slopes.
To view this wondrous nature, you will need to climb uphill as far as 3 km, at the slope of 25-30 degree. Such great effort will be paid off in an instant when you encounter the astonishing sight.
Tugu Khatulistiwa – Pontianak, West Kalimantan
We could go on and on with the attractions in Java. But let’s hop on to the next Island, Kalimantan or Borneo. In the western part of the islands, Pontianak, there is one monument marking the zero latitude of our globe. The place is called Tugu Khatulistiwa (The Equator Monument). On the weekend, this place will be crowded by a pack of tourists.
If you happen to visit on 21-23 of March or 2– 23 of September, you’ll have the opportunity to see all shadows vanishing beneath the sun for a couple of seconds. It was the time when the sun is exactly above the equator. This phenomenon has always been an interesting view both for the locals and tourists.
Located on the main road Jalan Khatulistiwa, this place also gives you a certificate as a memento of your visit. It mentions your name and the exact time of your visit to Tugu Khatulistiwa. Interesting, isn’t it?
Derawan Islands – East Kalimantan
Still venturing Kalimantan, now let’s sail across the strait to Derawan Islands. Famous for its underwater scenery, this place has been established as the third most beautiful place for diving in the world.
As the nesting site for endangered hawksbills and giant green turtles, Derawan provides an interesting sight of those animals laying eggs or swimming into the sea. The conservation area occupies quite a large part of the main island. But, cottages and restaurant are also very easy to find.
To reach Derawan, you need to take a flight to Tanjong Redep with one of these airlines: DAS, Deraya, or KAL Star. From Tanjong Redep harbor to the island, you can take motorboats.
Barito Bridge – South Kalimantan
Now, reaching to the southern part of Kalimantan, we arrive at Banjarmasin. One of the most visited places in the city is the famous Barito Bridge.
The stupendous bridge stretches 1.082 meters long above Barito River, connecting South and Central Kalimantan. Officially introduced by President Soeharto in 1997, the bridge now becomes the icon for Banjarmasin. Locals and tourists visit the bridge mostly in the afternoon, to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Barito River and Bakut Island beneath the bridge.
Batu Lamampu Beach – Nunukan, East Kalimantan
Although there are plenty of Kalimantan unexplored attractions, let it be the last one before we proceed to the next island. Now, on the eastern part, the journey through Kalimantan will be capped by the peaceful scenery of Batu Lamampu Beach. Located in Sebatik district in Nunukan regency, the beach offers serenity with its clean, pristine white sand adorned with giant reef, suitable for a quiet weekend vacation.
Nusa Dua - Bali
Indonesian tourist attractions wouldn’t be complete without Bali. Thousands of tourists flood into the island every year, charmed by its culture as well as nature. Bali provides a perfect escapade, for those who seek common popular destinations, and also for those interested in the less mainstream attractions. One of the popular destinations is Nusa Dua.
The beach is a typical Indonesian tropical beach, with soft white sand and clear-blue water. Many people love surfing in Nusa Dua. This tourist spot is convenient because of its accommodating facilities: resorts and hotels with international standard, restaurants, shopping center, and many more. Nusa Dua is a perfect place for leisure.
Luhur Uluwatu Temple – Bali
Another name for Bali is The Island of Thousand Temples, owing to the number of shrines built on the island. One of its famous temples is Pura Luhur Uluwatu, located in Pecatu Villages, Kuta districts, Badung.
What attracts the tourist is its location. Perched atop a highly-wedged rock, approximately 97 meters above sea level, the shrine provides an astounding view of the seemingly endless Indian Ocean. Situated in the western end of Bali, this shrine was also considered the best spot to watch the sunset.
On 18.15, right about the time of sunset, visitors are offered the opportunity to observe Tari Kecak, completing the wonderful experience of this place.
Gili Trawangan – West Nusa Tenggara
If you prefer less crowded vacation, let’s cruise to Gili Trawangan. Although not significantly quiet, Gili Trawangan in West Nusa Tenggara is less packed with tourists and offers equal charm as Bali.
The most appealing spot of Gili Trawangan is its underwater beauty, besides its clear, shimmering water, framed with white sand beach. You can head to the west side of the beach to get the calmer atmosphere. The eastern coast is busy with beach activities both from the locals and tourists.
Gunung Rinjani – Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara
The interior of West Nusa Tenggara holds a more appealing attraction for adventurous souls. Mount Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia, stands tall with its peak at 3.726 meters above sea level.
Every year, thousands of mountaineers struggle to reach its peak, especially when the 17th of August is approaching. Claimed as the mountain with the most beautiful scenery in Asia, from the peak you can see a field of Edelweiss stretching before your eyes, and the lake Segara Anakan spreading out beneath. Around the lake is the place for erecting tents and camp, and sometimes also fishing.
Before deciding to climb, make sure you are well-prepared. Be ready to embrace nature on your long journey.
Gunung Kelimutu National Park – Flores, East Nusa Tenggara
From West Nusa Tenggara, let’s continue to the east. The East Nusa Tenggara exhibits a range of mountains in equal charm with its western part. It was called Mount Kelimutu National Park.
Consisting of sloping hills and several mountains, the highest one is Mount Kelibara with 1.731 meters of height. Mount Kelimutu is not the highest, but it has a lake on top of its peak, namely Lake Kelimutu. Displaying 3 different colors of water, this lake is believed as sacred by the locals. They still hold various rituals and ceremonies complete with offerings for their ancestors to plead blessings and avoid wrath.
Losari Beach – Makassar, South Sulawesi
Losari beach is famous among Indonesian people. Even though most of us only heard its name and never get the opportunity to set foot on the wonderful beach, but surely, we all know it is located in Makassar, South Sulawesi.
It is the main attraction for travelers visiting Makassar. The soft, light breeze around the beach provides a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the evening. Meanwhile, you can also taste Pisang Epe, the famous treats sold around this place. Losari is the best place to enjoy the fascinating sunset.
However, don’t expect white sand beach or people swimming around, as the depth of sea around it is quite profound.
Wakatobi – Southeast Sulawesi
Cruising along the coastline to the southeast, we will find several islands are scattered near the foot of Sulawesi. Those islands were named Wakatobi, as an acronym for their main islands: Wanci, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko.
Besides wonderful beaches on each of the islands, Wakatobi was famous for their blacksmith. Cleavers, knives, and other iron equipment made by the residents of Wakatobi are sharper, stronger, and resistant to rust. That’s why initially this archipelago is referred as Blacksmith Archipelago.
One of the most favorite tourist spots is Hoga Island. The beach exhibits extraordinary beauty with rows of pines and palm trees, offering a cooler shade for the visitors while enjoying the sea-side scenery. Cottages are designed in the shape of Buton traditional house. Wakatobi is perfect for those newlyweds seeking a place for a honeymoon.
Togean Archipelago National Park – Central Sulawesi
Apparently, not many people are familiar with its name—Togean Archipelago National Park. Located in Central Sulawesi, the National Park is rich in biodiversity, being a home to hundreds of protected and endangered marine biotas. It is a perfect spot for diving or merely snorkeling, especially in Kadadiri Island.
Exploring into the interior of the island, travelers will be greeted by dense vegetation and green hills.
Those are several appeals attracting visitor to venture into the beautiful Wakatobi, to experience pieces of paradise in Sulawesi. Are you interested to see it yourself?
Dato Majene Beach – West Sulawesi
Sulawesi still holds various tourist attractions barely explored by travelers. One of them is Dato Majene Beach, located 7 km from Majene city center, South Sulawesi.
The enchanting beach with its crystal clear blue sea charms many visitors, providing a convenient spot for many beach activities, such as swimming, building a sand castle, snorkeling, fishing, and watching the sun falls from behind the hills. Accommodations are available and easy to find if you want to stay overnight.
Bunaken Marine Park – Manado, North Sulawesi
Located in coral triangle, Indonesia definitely has a rich marine biodiversity. One of its largest marine parks displaying a vast diversity of marine biota is Bunaken Marine Park in North Sulawesi Province. It is a conservation site for more than 390 special of coral and other coastal ecosystems.
Stretching roughly 890,65 km, Bunaken Marine Park is open for public. Visitors can enjoy colorful corals and more than 90 species of fish, reptiles, marine mammals, and mollusks, by snorkeling in the clear blue sea.
This National park is the main destination for those who visit Manado. It is recommended to visit the place during May to August, due to the nice and warm weather in those months. Its water is also in the clearest state at that time of the year.
Pantai Ora – Maluku
For the newlyweds seeking a romantic place for a honeymoon, let’s head to Ora Beach in Maluku. The exotic beach offers exotic scenery. Your typical tropical beach with white sand and sparkling blue sea is emblazed with a mighty limestone cliff background. Adorned with tropical forest on the interior near the shore, it creates a cooler shade which is comfortable for relaxing.
Away for hustle and bustle of the busy city, this beach is quite deserted. However, lodgings are available in several choices. Don’t forget to stack your wallet with enough cash, because there is no ATM around Ora Beach. Culinary is also limited, only one restaurant is available. You may bring your own snacks or light meals if you plan to stay longer on the island.
Halmahera – North Maluku
Besides Bunaken National Park, there is another splendid place to view an exquisite underwater beauty. It is located in Halmahera. The rich nature is well-preserved and protected. That’s why Halmahera is considered one of the best diving spot in the world.
From the total 450 species of coral reef in the world, 56% of them are concentrated in Halmahera. Fascinating, isn’t it? No wonder this place becomes a must-see for those who are interested in marine biodiversity. It is a dream land for researchers, fanatic travelers, photographers, and many others.
One of the beautiful islands of Halmahera is Bobale Island. Surrounded by white sand beach and turquoise blue sea, the small island becomes a favorite location for travelers. Officially managed by Halmahera Tourism Department, the island is a home to several unique terrestrial faunas. It is also a famous spot for diving, snorkeling, and other beach activities.
For those who are interested in diving, it is recommended to come during October to May. While for surfers, it is suggested to come around November to December, when the tide breaks are perfect for surfing.
Raja Ampat – West Papua
Raja Ampat archipelago in West Papua holds an extravagant number of unexplored tourist attractions. This place is considered one of the best diving spots in the world, along with Bunaken and Halmahera. The rich biodiversity of its marine biota is dumbfounding. According to researchers, 75% of total coral reef species in the world is located in Raja Ampat.
It is not exaggerating to say that many travelers are obsessed with this place. If you happen to visit Raja Ampat, try to stay overnight at Pinisi ship lodging which is available along the shore. Even though it quite costly (the rate is 100 million for 14 persons per week), but you will find an extraordinary experience that makes your visit unforgettable.
Raja Ampat is fairly accessible from the main airport, Domine Eduard Osok in Sorong. From the airport, you need to take public transportation to the harbor. Here, you are required to register yourself as a visitor, in order to gain access to Raja Ampat.
From Sorong Harbor, you can take a small boat to the capital city of Raja Ampat and seek affordable inn in the city. To reach the diving spot, you need to rent a speedboat around the location.
Danau Sentani – Papua
Besides Raja Ampat, Papua has another wonder located inside its land mass. It is called Sentani Lake. The most appealing attraction of this lake is the 22 islands scattered above the lake.
Albeit being officially established as a tourist destination, the nature is still clean and well-preserved. This is one of many factors which increase tourist interest to visit the 9.360 ha lake.
Due to the mangrove forest and marine biota, Sentani Lake also becomes one of the favorite places for diving.
If you are interested, it is recommended to come in June, since the locals hold Sentani Lakes Festival in that month. You can watch Papuan traditional war dance during the festival.

Those are 40 appealing tourist destinations in our beloved Indonesia, definitely perfect to satisfy your wanderlust without going abroad. Are you ready for more adventure?

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