INDONESIA : A Tropical Paradise And 17,000 Islands to Choose

With more than 17,508 islands, Indonesia is a tropical paradise to discover.

Indonesia has 6,000 inhabited islands with a population of over 240 million people. The main islands of Indonesia are Java, Sumatera, Borneo, Sulawesi, and Papua. Aside from the Indonesia's most popular island  BALI, Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia's least explored countries in terms of Ecotourism.

The climate of most of the area is subject to a monsoon season spanning from October and April. Temperatures are consistently warm at 26-30 degrees with exceptionally humid conditions. To add to Mother Nature’s many challenges, the country is also host to over 150 active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.

For many, a holiday to Indonesia starts at Jakarta, the largest city in the country. Most travellers will find the heavy pollution and nightmarish traffic a holiday turn off, but there are many unique features of the city. Once in Jakarta, visitors looking to move to more picturesque destinations will find it easy to get around between the islands. Bali, of course, has become a popular tropical resort destination with many airline carriers offering special deals and cheap flights packaged with resort accommodations.

Boat travel is widely available between Java, Bali and Sumatra. Buses are the easiest way to get around on land and are readily available throughout most popular cities and towns. There are also a number of quirky local transport options including three wheeled bicycle powered cabs, horse drawn carts or rickshaws.

Indonesia's population is diverse mix of 300 ethnic groups, drawing much of its influence from Hindu culture. Meanwhile, Chinese, European and Arabic influences are also prominent. Traditional dance and sport are the favourite pastimes and rituals amongst the locals while the regional food also draws from Middle Eastern, Chinese, European and Indian roots. Indonesia is perhaps one of the most diverse melting pots of cultures and is quite an amazing area to discover a range of customs and traditions - or you might just appreciate it as a great ecotourism paradise.

Indonesia can be hard work to travel through properly — and the limiting 60-day tourist visa does not help those really wanting to explore the 17,000-island-strong archipelago fully, given how infrequently some ferries travel. But with a little good planning, a lot of energy and bundles of enthusiasm, Indonesia more than rewards those who make the effort to discover its secrets, and appreciate its culture and uniqueness.

PAPUA AND MALUKU : Ecotourism Sites in Papua and Maluku Islands

Ecotourism Sites in Papua and Maluku Islands

1. Ceram-Sawai

 

Ecotourism site Ceram-Sawai is located west of the island of Papua. The island is known as a source of spices in Indonesia. This location has a rich biodiversity such as Cendrawasih -birds of paradise-, thick misty forest , and pristine coral relief.

2.  Raja Ampat Island

Ecotourism site Raja Ampat Islands is  is one of the islands in the world that has richest biodiversity. This area consists of 600 islands which are unity together, with a unique biota, land, and sea. 

SULAWESI ISLAND : Ecotourism Site in Sulawesi Island

Formerly known as Celebes, Sulawesi is shaped like a tropical orchid. It is Indonesia's third-largest island with an area of 172,000 square km. The island of Sulawesi is divided into the provinces of North Sulawesi, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. Sulawesi has great topographical variety-spectacular mountains, scenic coastline, lakes, rice and dense jungles-and offer wonderful opportunities for travelers.


Sulawesi Weather
Sulawesi has warm tropical climate with wet and dry seasons lasting approximately six months each. The dry season is from April to October and the wet season is from November to May.

Best Time To Visit Sulawesi
The best time to visit Sulawesi is during dry season from April to October. June to October offers the best chance of witnessing a major Torajanese funeral.
Sulawesi
 
Ecotourism Sites in Sulawesi  
There are favorite ecotourism sites in Sulawasi Island : 


1. Bunaken ational Park

Ecotourism site Bunaken National Park is situated in the northern part of Sulawesi island. The National Park is known as 'paradise under the sea' because it has the most species-rich underwater world. Bunaken area covers an area of ​​808 hectares.

2. Tangkoko

 
Ecotourism site angkoko is located on the northern island of Sulawesi. This area is dominated by two volcanoes, and covers a stretch of forest with diverse species of plants. In this location there are hundreds of species of birds and  animals such as monkeys, possum, and tarsiers, which is the smallest primate in the world.

3. Togian Island

Ecotorism site Togian Island is located on the eastern island of Sulawesi and is an archipelago consisting of seven small islands. This location has a very rich underwater biota and is a favorite dive site following Bunaken.

4. Banggai Island

Bangai Island is located east of Central Sulawesi Province. This location has a very rich  underwater biodiversity. One of the rare species that exist in this location is the Mandarin fish which has a unique texture. This location also has a beautiful coral.

5. Wakatobi National Park

Wakatobi National Park is located in the southeastern part of the island of Sulawesi and is an area that consists of a series of islands that surround the national  park. This location has rich marine biodiversity.

6. Selayar Island 

Selayar island located in the southern island of Sulawesi. This location is the world's third largest corral atoll. This area covers an area of ​​more than 2,200 acres and includes 21 small islands. This location is also a gathering place for sea turtles.



7. Tana Toraja

Tana Toraja is located in the province of South Sulawesi. This location is home of the unique culture of animism.  Toraja houses is  unique, and you can also meet friendly local people. 

BORNEO ISLAND : Ecotourism Sites in Borneo Island

Borneo or Kalimantan  is the world's second largest island.  East Borneo, West Borneo, Central Borneo and South Borneo. Borneo is one of the most bio-diverse places on the earth. It has one of the world's largest tropical rainforests and is home to rare flora and fauna.

Climate of Borneo
Borneo has tropical climate and very high rainfall throughout the year. Average rainfall is around 3000 mm per annum. The temperature varies between 29º C and 34º C and the humidity is in the range of 95-98%.

Best Time to Visit Borneo
The best time to visit this fascinating island is during the months of September and March, when temperatures are much cooler-in the vicinity of 27°C with pleasant sea breezes.


Ecotourism Sites in Borneo
Favorite ecotourism sites in Borneo are :



1. Tanjung Putting National Park

Ecotourism site Tanjung Putting National Park is located on the island of Borneo. This location is an area of ​​protected tropical forest in the world's largest and is home to orangutans and some other sepesies.

2. Derawan-Sangalak 

Ecotourism site Derawan Sangalak located in the eastern part of Borneo island. This location consists of a small archipelago of islands consisting Derawan, Sangalaki, Maratua, and Kakaban. This archipelago is the location of residence for green sea turtles are the largest in Indonesia. At this location there are several dive spot that has beautiful scenery.

NUSA TENGGARA ARCHIPELAGO

Nusa Tenggara archipelago have wonderful beaches, volcano and varied landscape. It is an ideal place for those looking for a private holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a normal tourist spot. Nusa Tenggara is divided into 2 adminstrative area : East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. 

Climate of  Nusa Tenggara
East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara have tropical climate with average temperature ranging between 28°C and 34°C. There are two main seasons: wet (from October to April) and dry (from May to September). Humidity is high throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara
The best time to visit East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara is surprisingly during the rainy season (October - April) when humidity decreases and the landscape is lush and green. The dry season (May-September) can be particularly hot and dusty.


Ecotourism Sites in East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara

1. Mount Rinjani National Park

Ecotourism site Mount Rinjani National Park Lombok is located in East Nusa Tenggara Province. This national park covers an area of ​​41,330 hectares and reaches an altitude of up to 3726 above sea level. At this location there is a crater Segara with  great view.

2. Flores

Ecotourism site Flores is located in East Nusa Tenggara Province. This location covers an area of ​​5000 hectares and has the attraction of the famous crater that has three beautiful colors.

3. Komodo National Park 

Ecotourism site Komodo National Park covers an area of ​​603 square kilometers of land and 1,214 square kilometers of waters. Komodo National Park has three main islands : Komodo Island, Rinca Island, and Padar Island. Komodo National Park was inaugurated in the year 1980. In 1985 the national park is declared a Biosphere Conservation Centre and the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

BALI ISLAND : Ecotourism Site in Bali Island

Bali is a tropical island on Indonesian archipelago. It s often referred to as paradise on earth and correctly so. With sunny and sandy beaches, tropical jungles full of exotic wildlife, paddy fields tripping down the hills, active volcanoes soaring up in the sky, spirited festivals throughout the year, and a culture that makes everybody feel a part of it, one cannot ask for more. Apart from sightseeing, Bali offers a lot of opportunities for tourists, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, hiking, and golf.


Climate in Bali
Bali has tropical climate. Temperatures are even throughout the year with average temperature around 30º C. There are two seasons, dry from April to September and wet from October to March. But, even they do not follow any set pattern. It can rain continuously in the dry season while rain can pass quickly in the wet season.

Best Time to Visit Bali
May to August is the best time to visit Bali. Temperatures are a bit cooler at this time of the year and chances of rain are also less.

Ecotourism Site in Bali Island

1. West Bali National Park

Ecotourism site West Bali National Park has collection of bird species that can not be found in other locations. In addition to its birds collection, you can also find deers, and endemic underwater species.

SUMATRA ISLAND : Ecotourism Sites in Sumatra Island

Sumatra is a complete tourist destination-sunny beaches, rich flora and fauna, large rivers and great history. Sumatra has the richest wildlife in Indonesia and hence it is known as "Africa of Asia". It is full of tropical rainforests and if you are a wildlife lover then Sumatra is the ideal place for you. Trekking is another option that you can opt for in Sumatra. Sumatra attracts fewer tourists than its neighbors like Java and Bali. So if you are looking for a quiet holiday away from maddening crowds then Sumatra fits the bill perfectly.

Weather of Sumatra
Sumatra is located on both sides of the equator in equal halves; hence it is divided in two climatic zones. In north of equator October to April is the rainy season, while May to September is the dry season. In south of equator, rainy season is from December to February.

Best Time To Visit Sumatra Island
The best time to visit Sumatra is in September and October. It is the beginning of the rainy season and generally there are no torrential rains during this period. One can travel to inner countryside without much of a problem during this time.

Ecotourism Sites in Sumatra Island  

1. Gunung Leuser National Park

Ecotourism site Mount Leuser National Park is located in South Sumatra. Mount Leuser National Park has a combination of vegetation and topography that are rarely found elsewhere. Protected species in this region are the orangutans, elephants, rhinos, and tigers.

2. Bukit Lawang

Ecotourism site Bukit Lawang is the first orangutan rehabilitation center in Indonesia. This place is located in North Sumatra. In these place,  orangutans are bred and trained. Several educational programs have been created and disseminated to the visitors in order to increase the sensitivity of visitors on environmental issues.

3. Kerinci Seblat National Park

Ecotourism site Kerinci Seblat National Park is the largest national park in Sumatra, which includes four border provinces.  In this national park, you can see the Southeast Asia's highest crater. Protected species in this region are rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and bears.

4. Siberut National Park

 
Ecotourism site Siberut National Park is located on a small island near Sumatra, named Mentawai. in this national park,  the Mentawai tribe is  still living by their original tradition. This location is famous for its authenticity nature and local culture.


5. Way Kambas National Park

  Ecotourism site Way Kambas National Park is located in Lampung province. This location is the first elephant school in Indonesia. In this location,  the elephants are bred and trained. You can find huge population of elephants and also rhinos and tigers.

JAVA ISLAND : Ecotourism Sites in Java Island

Java is the most populous and the most developed island in the Indonesian archipelago. The island is politically divided into the provinces of West Java, East Java and Central Java. The capital city of Jakarta is also located on this island. Java is an epitome of rapidly changing society: beautiful countryside and filthy cities; tranquil rural scenes and streets congested with traffic.

Weather and Climate of Java Island
The temperature in Java doesn't vary much, ranging from a minimum of 23° C to a maximum 31° C. The rainy season is from April to October and the dry season is from May to September. Humidity is high throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Java Island
Dry season is also the best time to visit Java because weather is clear, roads in the interiors are open, and temperatures are at their best.

Ecotourism Site in Java Island :

1.      Ujung Kulon National Park

Ecotourism site Ujung Kulon National Park is located in Banten Province, on the western tip of Java island. This location is called “ the last heaven for Java rhinoceros”. In this location you can find Java rhinos, deers, wild bulls, and  water cats. In 1992, the site was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

2. Gunung Halimun National Park 

Ecotourism site Gunung Halimun National Park is located in West Java Province. This national park covers the largest forest of Java Island, and became the last heaven for 23 endangered species of mammals, 200 species of birds and 500 species of plants. In this location you can also meet the very authentic Sundanese local people.

3. Mount Merapi

Ecotourism site Mount Merapi is located in Central Java Province. Mount Merapi is the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. The scenery around the mountain is quite attractive to visitors.

4. Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park 

Ecotourism site Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park is located in West Java Province. Since the 19th century, this location has become a living laboratory for researchers. This location covers two mountains and tropical forest that is rich in species of plants and animals.


5. Candirejo Borobudur

Ecotourism site Candirejo Borobudur is located in Central Java Province. Candirejo Borobudur is the most complete Buddhist temple site in the World. This location is one of the the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Candirejo Borobudur has a unique building, and you can also meet unique Java local culture.


6. Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

Ecotourism site Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park is located in East Java Province. Here, you can see a unique culture of  Tengger.  This place  has a very beautiful scenery of mountain peaks and desert plateu.

7. Ijen Plateu

Ecotourism site Plateu Ijen is located at the east of Java Province. Ijen Crater is the center of this location. The Crater  has a very attractive colors. In this location, you can also see a very unique tropical landscape.

8. Baluran National Park

Ecotourism site Baluran National Park is located in East Java Province. This location covers a 25,000 hectares of a savannah ecosystem. Species that can be found in this area are  bisons, deers, and several species of rare birds.

9. Alas Purwo Nasional Park

Ecotourism site Alas Purwo National Park is located on a small island in the northeast of Java Island. In this location you can find savannah, mangrove, bisons, boa, sea turtles, and deers. This location is also famous for its beach, as a G-Land, the best place for surfing.

INDONESIA : Where to Go ?

Indonesia consist 5 big islands : Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, and Papua.

and more than 17.000 little islands.., including BALI.

for the travelers, it will be good starting their journey by visiting Bali or Java -where the capital city Jakarta is located-.