Indonesia Tourism

It’s difficult to describe Indonesia in one word. This melting pot island nation is a magnificent conglomeration of cultures, identities and exotica. Indonesia tourism will take you to all parts of the country – islands, cities, towns and villages that are imbued with colour, brimming with stunning sights and scenes and the chance to enjoy life at a different pace. An Indonesia tour might give you the mere highlights about this beautiful country and it will need more than one visit to fully scratch that travel itch.

Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands. Yes, you read that right. This archipelago is heavily populated with a population of 245.5 million. Indonesia tourism covers popular vacation spots such as Bali, Jakarta, Sumatra and Java among several other picturesque places. What you might find interesting is that every city and island is different in Indonesia, each bringing its own unique stamp of culture. The people are friendly and look forward to visits from tourists as Indonesia tourism is one of the biggest sources of revenue for them.

Indonesia Geography

Located in Southeast Asia, Indonesia lies between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This tropical country straddles the equator and only 6000 of its islands are inhabited. The largest of its islands are Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi and New Guinea. Several of the islands in Indonesia are volcanic islands and the presence of active volcanoes makes the island susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic activity. In fact, there are 400 volcanoes in Indonesia of which 130 are active. Due to the volcanic influence on its soil, Indonesia is home to very diverse flora and fauna and its land is considered very fertile. There are forests in 70% of the country and this adds to its tropical allure.

Indonesia Climate

Indonesia’s climate is equatorial and thus hot and humid all around. However, the coast and a few other areas receive heavy rainfall as well. Since the country is split by the equator, it experiences different kinds of climates such as tropical rainforest with heavy rainfall, tropical monsoon and tropical savanna. But it can all be narrowed down to two types of climates – wet and dry. Typhoons have been known to strike the islands every now and then between September and December which can bring heavy winds and rainstorms.

If you’re planning an Indonesia tour, you need to be aware of the kind of climate you’re getting into. It’s best to come prepared with light breathable cotton clothing and it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or raincoat with you in case there are rains suddenly. If you’re in the mountainous areas, then you will need a sweater. Despite this, be prepared for hot and humid weather at all times during your Indonesia tourism jaunt.

Indonesia Culture

Indonesia’s culture is varied and rich considering that there are six religions that are followed here along with at least 300 different ethnic groups. It’s hard to pinpoint just a few elements of Indonesian culture as a result. Apart from Islam, the people there follow Christianity, Buddhism and Hinduism to name a few.

While you are here on your Indonesia tour, do bear in mind that Indonesians have very definitive views on religion and take their religious practices very seriously. The Balinese for instance are very particular about their offerings. Elsewhere, you will see shop owners and employees rush out of their shops during the prayer time. This spiritual aspect of Indonesian life is reflected in everything they do and the way they lead their lives and even build their places of worship.

Indonesia Tourism

Indonesia tourism would be incomplete without a mention of the country’s natural beauty. From its mountains and volcanoes to its beaches to its modern cosmopolitan cities, Indonesia has much to offer the weary traveller. A significant part of the revenue of the people here depends on Indonesia tourism.

While Bali has its trendy beach resorts, smaller islands like Gili and Batam have their own charms. Jakarta is a metropolis in every possible way while Yogyakarta is known as the epicentre of Javanese fine arts. There are places to visit like Flores Island famed for the Kelimutu volcano caldera or Bukit Lawang with its rehabilitation centre for orangutans. There are several national parks such as Bromo Tengger Semeru with its view of a volcanic crater or the Tanjung Putting National Park in Borneo. One of the famed Indonesia tour spots is the Komodo National Park where Komodo dragons roam freely.