Best of Indonesia (15 destinations)

Far from ‘just another island getaway’, Indonesia is in many ways a whole world of its own, a sprawling constellation of islands all with something unique to offer. Spend 24 days exploring the diversity of this beautiful country, starting out in Indonesia’s wild west – on the island of Sumatra –and travelling east through Java and into Bali (everybody’s favourite island getaway for a reason). Move effortlessly from Christian Batak to Hinduism and Buddhism, remote jungles to vast beaches, volcano valleys to urban villages and streetside warungs to temple complexes. For the ultimate South East Asian adventure, take the dive – with a small group of like-minded travellers and an expert local leader! This trip involves a fair amount of hiking and cycling, including hiking in the jungle. A good level of fitness is required to make the most out of this trip.Sumatra is less developed than other islands of the Indonesian archipelago. Due to limited tourism infrastructure, expect there to be bumpy and windy roads, some longer drives and more basic hotels. On the plus side, there are less tourists. Java is one of the largest islands in Indonesia, and this trip covers a lot of ground. Travel times can be long and delays are common. Where suitable, you'll travel by train instead of drive, which will make the journey more comfortable.This itinerary spends one night camping in Gunung Lesuer National Park. Keep in mind this is jungle camping with twin share tents and no facilities. Which is of course all part of the adventure. Gunung Leuser National Park is located in Aceh province, which is governed by Sharia Law. There are strict Sharia laws to comply to. Your leader will explain more, but conservative dress is required for these days, (and is recommended for the rest of this trip).It's important not to make your bags too heavy, as you will be expected to carry them onto and off trains and walk them short distances. Porters are available in most stations at an extra charge.Accommodation at Seloliman Nature Reserve, and near Mt Bromo is in basic guesthouses. Set on the edge of a tropical forest the Seloliman Reserve embraces philosophies of environmental education, and we are sure you will get a good nights sleep. The next night close to the base Mt Bromo our guesthouse is selected for its location. Our stay is short, as we awake very early the next day for our sunrise hike.Dress standards in this part of Indonesia are more conservative than in other areas of Indonesia. Show your respect by covering your knees and shoulders when visiting temples. It's a great idea to bring your own sarong.This trip is a combination of two trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.