17 Best Outdoor Activities You Can Only Do in Indonesia

Welcome to Indonesia, a captivating archipelago renowned for its extraordinary blend of natural wonders and vibrant cultural heritage!

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Indonesia boasts an array of best outdoor activities set against breathtaking landscapes. From the renowned surf breaks and the vibrant coral reefs to exploring lush rainforests and volcanic peaks through hiking trails that unveil spectacular vistas, Indonesia has something for everyone.

Get ready for an adventure in Indonesia that celebrates the unique fusion of nature and culture found nowhere else but here!

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Surfing in Nias or Lombok

Surfing in Nias or Lombok is a thrilling experience that attracts surf enthusiasts from around the globe.

Nias, located off the western coast of Sumatra, is famous for its powerful waves, especially at spots like Lagundri Bay. Surfers flock here to ride the legendary barrels and enjoy the consistent swell. The island’s rugged beauty and laid-back atmosphere add to its allure. 

Lombok, situated east of Bali, offers a more tranquil surfing experience than its bustling neighbor, Bali. You can explore breaks like Desert Point, Gerupuk, and Seger Beach, which cater to different skill levels. Lombok’s pristine beaches and scenic landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for your memorable surfing adventure in Indonesia!

Ayung River Rafting in Ubud

Ayung River rafting in Ubud, Bali, is your go-to option for an exhilarating experience that combines adventure and stunning natural surroundings. You’ll encounter thrilling rapids suitable for beginners and experienced rafters as you navigate the river’s twists and turns.

The Ayung River offers a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility, with moments of adrenaline-pumping rapids interspersed with calm stretches where you can admire the verdant jungle and wildlife. Enjoy Bali’s breathtaking landscape as you rush your adrenaline in one of these best outdoor activities in Indonesia for the daredevils!

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VW Safari

Embarking on a VW Safari outdoor adventure is a unique and nostalgic way to explore Indonesia’s diverse landscapes and cultural gems. These vintage Volkswagen tours, often based in Bali, offer a fun and memorable way to traverse the island’s scenic roads, lush rice terraces, and quaint villages. As you ride in a classic VW convertible or buggy, you’ll discover hidden corners of Bali, stopping at iconic landmarks, traditional markets, and picturesque viewpoints along the way.

Feel free to soak in the island’s beauty while cruising retro-style as you create lasting memories of an outdoor adventure in Indonesia!

Trekking to Padar Island

Trekking to Padar Island is a rewarding adventure that offers one-of-a-kind panoramic views. Padar Island, located within the Komodo National Park, is known for its rugged terrain, diverse landscapes, and stunning vistas overlooking turquoise waters and pristine beaches.

The trek to the island’s summit involves a moderate hike up dusty trails and rocky paths, but the effort is well worth it. Upon reaching the peak, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of three distinct bays with contrasting colored sands and the surrounding island. Let this trekking experience encapsulate you in the natural beauty and rugged charm that enchant Indonesia’s landscapes!

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Sailing (Live on Board) Komodo National Park

Explore the pristine beauty of Komodo National Park, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, by sailing on a liveaboard vessel. Setting sail from Labuan Bajo, this marine adventure offers a comfortable and immersive experience, allowing you to discover remote islands, secluded beaches, and vibrant underwater ecosystems.

As you cruise through the park’s turquoise waters, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel among colorful coral reefs, encounter Komodo dragons on Rinca and Komodo Islands, and witness the mesmerizing sunsets from the deck. The liveaboard experience in Komodo National Park promises you a dream getaway!

Snorkeling at Bunaken

Do you need more recommendations of best outdoor activities in Indonesia? Let’s discover Bunaken’s crystal-clear waters with vibrant coral reefs and marine life with your own eyes!

Explore the underwater world just a few meters offshore, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and intricate coral formations. The island’s protected marine park offers numerous snorkeling sites with varying depths and currents, catering to snorkelers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned snorkeler, Bunaken promises an unforgettable aquatic adventure in one of Indonesia’s most pristine and biodiverse marine environments!

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Hiking to Mount Bromo, Mount Rinjani, and Mount Semeru

Did you know hiking in Indonesia offers a thrilling journey through diverse landscapes and volcanic terrain? We do believe that this one of the best outdoor activities in Indonesia won’t disappoint you.

Well, it’s just about time you put Mount Bromo, Mount Rinjani, and Mount Semeru on your hiking list!

Mount Bromo in East Java offers a relatively accessible trek with stunning sunrise views from its crater rim, overlooking a lunar-like landscape dotted with smoking volcanic cones.

Mount Rinjani on Lombok Island presents a more challenging ascent, rewarding you with panoramic vistas of lush forests, crater lakes, and even neighboring Bali on clear days.

For the most adventurous, Mount Semeru, also in East Java, is Indonesia’s highest volcano and requires a strenuous multi-day trek to reach its summit.

Scaling these iconic peaks allows you to experience Indonesia’s volcanic wonders firsthand, surrounded by dramatic scenery and natural beauty that showcase the country’s geological diversity!

Watch the Sunrise Over Borobudur Temple

Experience a magical and spiritual moment as you watch the sunrise over Borobudur Temple. When the dawn breaks and the first light illuminates the ancient stone stupas and intricate carvings of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you are treated to a panorama of mist-covered valleys and distant volcanoes.

This tranquil ambience, combined with the temple’s grandeur, creates a sense of awe and reverence. Observing the sunrise from Borobudur is a visual delight and a deeply contemplative moment, offering a profound connection to Indonesia’s rich history and cultural heritage!

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Chase the Blue Flames at Lake Ijen

Lake Ijen holds an otherworldly adventure that unveils Indonesia’s mysterious natural wonders. Located in East Java, the Ijen volcano complex is renowned for its mesmerizing phenomenon of blue flames emanating from its crater.

To witness such a heavenly spectacle, it’s recommended that you embark on a pre-dawn hike to the rim of the crater, navigating rugged terrain under starlit skies. As dawn approaches, the surreal sight of electric-blue flames dancing amidst sulfuric gases creates a surreal and captivating scene.

Chasing the blue flames at Lake Ijen promises you a rare opportunity to witness a natural marvel that is as intriguing as it is unforgettable!

We can guarantee that this is one of the best outdoor activities in Indonesia you’re gonna love!

Go Caving in Jomblang

Let’s dive into the depths of the earth! Jomblang Cave —one of the best outdoor activities in Indonesia, specifically in Yogyakarta— is famous for its vertical shaft and mystical “light from heaven” phenomenon. As you descend into the cave, rappelling down a 60-meter vertical drop, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking underground world filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

The highlight of the adventure is witnessing the surreal beam of sunlight that penetrates the darkness, creating a mesmerizing spectacle like no other. Exploring Jomblang Cave is a thrilling escapade worth a rare glimpse into the mysterious subterranean landscapes of Indonesia!

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Klotok Boat Tour and See Orangutans

Immerse yourself in a wildlife experience by going on a Klotok boat tour to see orangutans in their natural habitat in Tanjung Puting National Park, Borneo. The journey along the park’s meandering rivers aboard a traditional wooden boat (klotok) allows you to observe the lush rainforest and spot diverse wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, macaques, and exotic bird species.

The tour’s highlight is visiting orangutan feeding stations, where these intelligent primates swing through the trees and interact with their surroundings. Pamper yourself in a lifetime moment of witnessing orangutans up close in their native environment as a poignant and unforgettable encounter with wildlife!

Hike Through Lake Toba and Samosir Island

When you enter North Sumatra, make the most of your outdoor activity in Indonesia by hiking through Lake Toba and Samosir Island. The journey will take you on a captivating adventure that unveils stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

Lake Toba, one of the largest crater lakes in the world, provides a scenic backdrop for exploration. On Samosir Island, nestled in the middle of Lake Toba, you can trek through lush forests, visit traditional Batak villages, and admire panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The hiking trails offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion, with opportunities to learn about the local Batak culture and witness ancient stone tombs and traditional architecture. Reward yourself with an outdoor exploration with insights into Indonesia’s rich heritage!

Also Read: 5 Best Solo Hiking Tips for Beginners

Diving in Raja Ampat

Are you sure that you don’t want to visit one these best outdoor activities in Indonesia? Papua is a gem waiting to be explored. Discover the ethereal beauty of Raja Ampat as you dive into its underwater treasure!

This marine paradise boasts some of the world’s most biodiverse and pristine coral reefs. Witness the vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful fish as you encounter majestic manta rays and unique marine species like pygmy seahorses and walking sharks.

The underwater landscapes of Raja Ampat are as diverse as they are breathtaking, with dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and bustling fish aggregations.

Lovina Dolphin Tour

Picture this: you bask in the warm touch of the sun rising in the east as you witness the playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

The Lovina Dolphin Tour in Bali will bring you into this captivating experience as you set out early in a traditional outrigger boat. Cruise along the calm waters of the Bali Sea off the coast of Lovina Beach onward to the leaping and frolicking dolphins near your boat.

This enchanting encounter allows you to observe these gentle creatures in their element and capture memorable moments against the backdrop of a stunning sunrise. There is no better way to start your day than this serene scene of a magical moment!

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Dive in Tulamben and See the USS Liberty Shipwreck 

This is one of the best outdoor activities in Indonesia we want to highly recommend.

Explore the iconic USS Liberty Shipwreck submerged just off the coast as you dive into Tulamben, Bali. To reach this World War II relic, the historic dive site is easily accessible from the shore, making it suitable for novice and experienced divers.

Descending into the crystal-clear waters reveals the impressive remains of the ship, now adorned with colorful corals and bustling marine life. You can swim through corridors and around structures covered in coral growth, encountering schools of fish, reef sharks, and occasional sightings of turtles. Diving in Tulamben is a must-do for history enthusiasts while you’re on an adventure in Indonesia!

Swim or Dive at Paisu Pok Lake

Situated in the heart of the jungle near the Baliem Valley, Papua, Paisu Pok Lake is a hidden gem home to a crystal-clear, turquoise lake surrounded by lush forests and towering limestone cliffs. The lake’s waters teem with unique aquatic life, including colorful fish and freshwater eels. 

In this one of the world’s most remote and pristine diving locations, feel free to snorkel or dive to explore the underwater world, marveling at this secluded paradise’s visibility and natural beauty. If you’re up to an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Paisu Pok Lake is the right place for you!

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See Toraja Funeral Celebration

For those seeking a culturally rich experience, the Toraja funeral celebration in North Sulawesi is your answer! The Toraja people are known for their elaborate and unique funeral rituals, which can last several days and involve intricate ceremonies and traditional customs.

These ceremonies are a way to honor and bid farewell to the deceased and a reflection of the Torajan belief in the importance of the afterlife and ancestral spirits.

Immerse yourself in this celebration of Torajan traditional music and dance performances, sacrificial rituals, and the slaughtering of water buffaloes, all of which play significant roles in the funeral process.

Exploring the outdoor adventures of Indonesia unveils a world of scenic landscapes, vibrant cultures, and thrilling experiences. From trekking volcanic peaks to diving in pristine waters, Indonesia offers something for every adventurer.

To embark on your Indonesian adventure, consider booking with Bobocabin, a tech-integrated cabin hotel that transcends the ordinary. Savor the authentic glamping experience that reconnects you with the essence of the great outdoors in the most stunning and captivating destinations across Indonesia.

Whether you dream of hiking through lush jungles, encountering wildlife, or diving into vibrant coral reefs, Bobocabin provides your home away from home. Take the leap and discover the wonders of Indonesia through the Bobobox App today!

 

Writer: Ratna Asih Setyaningrum