Five Best

Mount Bromo is Indonesia’s best-known volcano; it is a natural wonder that stands 2,329 meters above sea level on the Eastern side of Java. The mountain sits in the midst of vast plain called the “Sea of Sand” or “Segara Wedi”, a protected nature reservation since 1919. Although thousands of tourists climb its peak daily, Bromo is a very active volcano, and has erupted three times since 2000. Depending on the degree of volcanic activity, the Indonesian Centre for Volcanology and Disaster Hazard Mitigation sometimes issues warnings against visiting Mount Bromo. The most common way to visit Bromo is via a village called Cemoro Lawang. Walking to the mountain area will take about 45 minutes, but visitors can also arrange an organized jeep tour for the trip.

Rising up like a monolith from the Jurassic era Mount Kinabalu stands 4,096 meters above sea level. It is the highest peak in Borneo’s Crocker Range as well as the highest mountain in Malaysia. In topographic prominence, Mount Kinabalu is the 20th most prominent mountain in the world and considered among the most important biological sites in the world, having accorded a World Heritage Status by UNESCO. Mount Kinabalu contains thousands species of plants, hundred species of birds and mammals, including the rare Rafflessia flower and the endangered orang-utan. The lowest peak of Mount Kinabalu can be climbed quite easily by a person in good physical condition and there is no need for equipment at any point on the main route, however other peaks along the massif require at least basic ...

Bali like so many of Indonesia’s islands has been formed as a result of volcanic activity. The mountainous chain that runs through the middle of Bali is a result of this activity and in the case of Mt. Batur, activity that is not quite over. Mount Batur is located in Batur Village, Kintamani and is an active volcano standing 1,717 meters above sea level well known as a gorgeous sunrise spot. The area around the volcano is a deep crater lake and the site of a massive explosion many years ago. Bubbling hot springs also feature around the base of this volcano that attracts both trekkers and viewers alike to its surrounds. Mount Batur’s peak provides a fantastic platform for sunset watchers. Almost a century ago, Mount Batur erupted. Although it was not as massive as the one happened a...

Situated close to the small town of Moni in central Flores Island, Kelimutu is a volcano that rises 1,639 meters above sea level. This volcano is famous for its three striking summit crater lakes each containing their own distinct colours of red, blue and green water. The reason for this strange coloration is not precisely known but it is thought that various gases reacting with different minerals are the main cause. The scenic panorama of the said lake is what makes Kelimutu a noteworthy hiking destination. To get to the mountain one must go through to the town of Moni located 50 km away from the capital city of Ende, East Nusa Tenggara. There are frequent flights scheduled from Bali to Ende.

Formally known as the Celebes, Sulawesi is the world’s 11th largest island and one of Indonesia’s main islands. Shaped a little like a lowercase k, Sulawesi has areas areas of unique culture, an abundance of spectacular scenery and some of the best world-class diving spots in the world. Bunaken is one of Indonesia’s most famous diving and snorkelling areas and it draws many visitors from all over the world. Situated on the northern tip of Sulawesi, Bukaken Island is part of the Bunaken National Park, a marine park covering 890 sq. km. More species of marine life are concentrated about the reef just a few kilometres off shore than anywhere else in the Indo-Western Pacific. The different genera of coral here are seven times that of Hawaii. Seven of the eight species of giant clams t...

The name here is derived from tiny puka shells that are found in the white sand. This quiet beach, located in the northern part of Boracay is a great place to have a lazy day trip while at the same time savouring the excellent seafood provided by small restaurants around the beach. The 800-meter-long stretch of shining white sand on this tiny island’s northern tip is a major draw for visitors. At certain times of the year the beach is not suitable for swimming as the water is deep and sometimes rough. However, Boracay is a lovely picture postcard island full of gentle attractions. It is a perfect place to soak up the sun and unwind in a tranquil atmosphere. The beach is also known for its astonishing sunsets.