Best Indonesian destinations for nature lovers

Comprising more than 17,000 islands with a great range of habitat types, Indonesia is a nature lover’s paradise. From volcanoes to tropical rainforests and coral reefs, many Indonesian islands are havens of nature.

They are home to iconic species like orangutans, Komodo dragons, and Sumatran tigers, as well as boasting incredible species richness in the seas and skies. Indonesia’s islands should be on the bucket list of any travelling nature lover. In this article, we explore some of the top destinations with nature lovers in mind.

1. Komodo

Renowned for being home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, Komodo is an Indonesian island with extraordinary biodiversity. The untouched landscapes make for beautiful, scenic hiking holidays sure to deliver breathtaking views. Beyond its dragons, the Komodo National Park is home to tonnes of unique wildlife and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the whole ecosystem.

Thanks to the sand’s high mineral content, Komodo has stunning pink beaches, and the surrounding waters offer spectacular spots for snorkelling and diving.

2. Mount Bromo

Part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Mount Bromo is an iconic volcano, popular with nature enthusiasts. The surreal volcanic landscape with towering cliffs and a smoking crater draws visitors from afar.

The sunrise views are among the best on the planet, with vivid oranges and pinks colouring the unusual landscape - many consider it a spiritual experience. The national park is home to an array of animal species, including many bird species and the Javan langur.

3. Mount Merbabu

A dormant volcano in Central Java, tourists can embark on the unforgettable experience of camping on the volcano overnight and watching the sunrise over the neighbouring mountains. The panoramic views even stretch to the Java Sea in the background of the sprawling surrounding landscape.

The area is renowned for its ecological diversity. From forests to meadows, the mountainous region is home to a great array of life, from rare orchids to colourful butterflies and birds.

4. Way Kambas National Park

Situated in South Sumatra, Way Kambas National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. The park is famous for its population of Sumatran elephants - a critically endangered species that can be seen roaming freely in the park thanks to the ongoing conservation work in its native habitat.

Jungle treks in Way Kambas National Park provide the opportunity to experience a whole range of wildlife, from insects to large mammals. You might even be lucky enough to spot an elusive Sumatran tiger or tapir on your Sumatran nature adventure.

5. Borneo

The list wouldn’t be complete without including the world’s third-biggest island, and home to the Bornean orangutan. Borneo is a lush natural paradise, home to a great range of biodiversity and famous for its eco-tourism efforts. A nature lover’s trip to Borneo could involve observing the charismatic, endangered orangutans in their natural habitat.

Among other incredible animals, Borneo is home to proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and elusive clouded leopards, and there are plenty of options for jungle safaris and river cruises to boost your chances of spotting members of the unique Bornean biodiversity.

6. Lake Toba

A second feature in Sumatra, nestled in the highlands, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world. 74,000 years ago, a cataclysmic volcano eruption created the basis for the enormous lake visible today. The breathtaking lake is a geographical wonder, surrounded by picturesque fields and villages. Visitors can rent kayaks and spot plenty of other wildlife while exploring the lake peacefully. The area is particularly popular with birdwatchers, allured by the native species like kingfishers, eagles and hornbills.

7. Sulawesi

The island of Sulawesi is rich in endemic species, which aren’t found anywhere else in the world. From the rainforests to highlands and vibrant coral reefs, Sulawesi has a great array of ecosystems to explore. The forests are home to primates, including the Sulawesi crested macaque and the world’s smallest primate - the tarsier - as well as an incredible diversity of bird life. The Togian Islands in the Molucca Sea are the perfect diving-off point for experiencing the coral reefs teeming with marine life.

8. Papua

An unspoilt wildlife haven in eastern Indonesia, Papua is a remote destination with lots to offer for nature lovers. The island offers the unique opportunity for visitors to trek through ancient, untouched rainforests with thriving biodiversity and tonnes of endemic species.

The island is a must-visit destination for birdwatchers: it is a hotspot for spectacular birds of paradise. The surrounding marine ecosystems are rich in biodiversity, too, with some incredible coral reefs.

9. Raja Ampat

For people who feel the pull of the underwater world, Raja Ampat is an Indonesian archipelago not to be missed. Hundreds of jungle-covered islands comprise the Raja Ampat Regency at the heart of the Coral Triangle.

The surrounding crystal waters are bursting with marine life; they are particularly famous for their pygmy seahorses and manta rays. The coral reefs are some of the most colourful left on Earth, making snorkelling and diving popular activities around these islands.

Only the most beautiful destinations

From the sunrise views from Mount Bromo to the underwater marvels of Papua and Raja Ampat, a nature-inspired trip to Indonesia is guaranteed to leave visitors with memories that will last a lifetime. The region has unparalleled biodiversity, with lots of species that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth, including many animals and plants.

If you’re looking for a place to discover the wilds and reconnect with nature, Indonesia might be the perfect choice. Thanks to the sheer number of islands, the country really does have something to offer for everybody - from comfort-driven holidays with arranged nature tours to back-to-basics wild adventures.