Indonesia is a renowned tourist destination recognised for its stunning beaches, diverse cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. It also features some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, ranging from lush tropical rainforests with incredible wildlife to towering rocky hills and coves with sandy beaches. Here are five places in Indonesia where you can go on a trek in Indonesia, each with its own unique characteristics.
Gunung Muria, a dormant volcano in Indonesia, dominates the Muria peninsula on Java's north coast. The Muria mountain range actually consists of several peaks, the highest of which is Songolikur. Gunung Muria is a popular short weekend walk that offers beautiful views of the Central Java mountains and northern shoreline from the summit. It can be ascended from the south at Semliro, Rahtawu (30km north of Kudus) or from the Jepara side via Tempur, north of the top, but the former is the more popular path to the highest peak. There are other paths up surrounding peaks.
Mount Ijen is located at the far eastern edge of Java. The hike to the location is rather steep, but the trail is well-defined and safe. But it is worthwhile because this is supposed to be the world's largest acid lake and is famous for the strange 'blue fire' phenomenon, in which you can see intense blue flames burning like lava in the dark.
Located between the Pronojiwo District and the Lumajang Regency in East Java, Iapproximately 2-3 hours from Malang, Tumpak Sewu translates to "one thousand waterfalls," which is a suitable name given that the water cascades into the basin in flowing ribbons. These falls crash down into a horseshoe-shaped rainforest ravine. After watching the waterfall from above, there is a trekking route that leads down to see it up close. The route to the destination is also intriguing, with roadside 'warungs' (casual food shops).
Padar is one of Komodo National Park's must-see islands known for its breathtaking views from green-capped hills. The sunset from Padar's highest elevations is spectacular, as the hills overlook several stunning beaches. Apart from impressive rocky cliffs, the island features three bays with white, black, and pink beaches. The walk to Padar's top is a must-do for the adventurous, taking you through gorgeous vistas on your way up.
Bukit Lawang is located at the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the few sites in the world where you may see the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan in its native environment. A walk here provides a unique rainforest experience in one of the world's last surviving tropical paradises. Try the short Batu Baginda hike, with extraordinary views from a giant boulder.