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Jakarta, Indonesia
Starting your Indonesian adventure in Jakarta is more akin to being thrown into
the middle of the Pacific Ocean than the deep end of a swimming pool but it does
have some charms. As the capital, there are many important museums where you can
educate yourself on Indonesian history and culture. Unlike some other
destinations on the route, locals vastly outnumber tourists which means you are
likely to be something of a fascination to local residents.
As well as its cultural attractions, Jakarta also boasts possibly the most
raucous nightlife scene in the Islamic world with giant 24 hour night clubs and
bars, some of which are packed with ecstasy-fuelled ravers. The best tactic is
to accept the madness of the place and try to understand the day to day lives of
local people who for the most part are friendly and eager to engage with you.
However like most big cities, Jakarta does have its share of dangers, so take
good care of yourself and your belongings.
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Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Jogja, as locals call it, is in many ways the cultural capital of Java. A lively
city in its own right with a thriving arts scene and a busy little district that
caters for the hordes of travellers that come through these parts. The vast
palace known as the Kraton Complex is home to the fabulously named Sri Sultan
Hamengkubuwono and is the main attraction in the town.
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Bromo, Indonesia
A popular stopping point on the lengthy trip from Yogyakarta to Bali. Java is an
island full of highly active volcanoes and Mounts Bromo and Semeru are two of
the most accessible. Both volcanoes constantly spew out steam and smoke with
major eruptions not an uncommon occurrence.
The surrounding landscape is spectacular and at times truly unworldly. There’s
plenty of budget accommodation available around the park and it’s probably best
to base yourself in a village such as Cemoro Lawang or Wonokitri. Camping is
possible inside the park but it does get rather cold at night.
- Mount Bromo (Gunung Bromo)
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Banyuwangi, Indonesia
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Senaru, Indonesia
Senaru is a pleasant village on the fringe of the Mount Rinjani National Park
and has probably the best choice of budget accommodation in the area. Here you
can learn about the unique cultural beliefs on the island of Lombok. Close by
are beautiful waterfalls and for the brave you can take on the challenge of
hiking up Mount Rinjani which, as the second highest volcano in Indonesia, looms
large over the entire island.
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Gili Air Island, Indonesia
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Komodo Island, Indonesia
The Komodo national park consists of three islands just west of the main island
of Flores and is home to an abundance of animal life. As well as the famous
dragons, the area is home to wild horses, boar, deer, water buffalos, monkeys
and some very dangerous snakes. The tropical waters are inhabited by whales,
dolphins and various other forms of marine life so diving, kayaking and
snorkelling trips are also popular. The nearby town of Labuan Bajo is probably
your best bet for budget accommodation from where you can easily reach the
islands that make up the Komodo National Park.
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Jakarta, Indonesia