Indonesia is quite an expensive destination for travelers and adventurers, but it's worth it. Only about 15 hours of flight and you are in a fairy tale. We have prepared an overview of the 9 best islands in Indonesia. Choose any of them and go to meet bright events, because here you can perfectly combine a luxurious beach holiday, and active entertainment, hiking and excursions, observing flora and hiking. Don't worry about visas, they are issued to tourists from Russia, or rather they are put in the passport right at the airport control.

Bali

If you have already been to the island of Bali, then you must have heard the legend that this island was originally created by the gods for their own needs and entertainment, and a little later, being generous or spending a lot on its maintenance, they condescended and decided to open it for mere mortals. There is nothing surprising in the fact that travelers have to pay an impressive “tax” for the opportunity to spend an unforgettable vacation here.

Local residents have long ignored the strange disposition and behavior of outlandish tourists. The Balinese greet everyone without exception with a warm smile. If you are going for nightlife and dancing until the morning, then you are in Kuta. If you prefer luxury holidays and first-class service, then welcome to Nusa Dua. If your children went with you for new emotions, then give preference to Jimbaran.

When to go to Bali

Since there are only two seasons in Bali – rainy and dry, we recommend planning a vacation in the most comfortable of them, namely from April to September. Although even those who arrive from October to March cannot hide their delight. Keep in mind that the southern beaches in the rainy season cannot boast of their cleanliness, as the current brings a lot of plastic “surprises” to the coast. Of course, the north and west cannot boast of white sand, here it is mostly black, but if you wish, there are exceptions. You just need to search.

What to do in Bali

The most popular activities on the island are, of course, surfing, diving and rafting. Surf fans prefer the south and east of the island. Here you can rent equipment and get training. In addition, if this is your only purpose of travel, then I recommend purchasing the Accommodation + Surfing package. So you can save money on your hobby. For diving, connoisseurs go to the east of the island and to the west, to the Barat National Park. The reefs there are simply breathtaking.

Rafting fans will not miss the opportunity and will not deny themselves the pleasure of rafting down the Ayung River and Telaga Vaja. For such adventures, of course, it is better to fly during the rainy season. “Yohoho” and “Why did I need all this? I would rather sit at home “- you are guaranteed. Also here you can meet people who are keen on kite and windsurfing, especially in the resort of Sanur. Do not deny yourself the pleasure, take part in a bicycle tour, fishing, kayaking, walking under water and elephant riding. Fans of something like that can safely be advised to descend into canyons, climb volcanoes and organized walks in caves.

As you understand, Bali is a truly unique island where dreams come true.

Lombok

Lombok seems to be specially created for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the world of peace and quiet, to be far from civilization. It beckons with the splendor of lakes and waterfalls. Here you will feel the harmony that is so lacking in everyday life with eternal worries and anxieties.

Once in Lombok, one cannot help but admire the beauty of the tropical island. Endlessly stretching beaches, soft white sand, shady palm trees and majestic mountains will help restore peace of mind. Rest in this place will be the dream of everyone who loves to spend time alone with nature. Near Lombok there are many small coral islands, most of which are uninhabited.

When to go to Lombok

The best time to visit Lombok is May-September. The weather at this time will be conducive to relaxation. There is no need to worry about the fact that due to heavy rains you will not be able to go to the mountains or soak up the beach. Naturally, there are weather “surprises”, but extremely rarely. When planning your trip, you should take into account that in different parts of the island the temperature and humidity levels can vary significantly. Therefore, you need to focus on the weather conditions of the particular region where you will be.

Things to do in Lombok

For those who are not used to idle time, Lombok will appeal to you. You should not be limited only to the delights of a beach holiday. The island is so original, amazing and not yet very “trampled” by tourists, which is of great interest to most visitors.

During the tourist season (from May to October), one of the highest volcanoes in Indonesia, Rinjani, is open. Adventure is not for everyone: it will take at least a whole day to conquer the summit. For tourists, trekking trips are organized everywhere, participation in which takes place under the guidance of a guide. You can use the services of a helpful porter. Climbing the mountain is worth the time and money spent. From the top there are breathtaking views. And when else will you have the opportunity to look into the real crater of the volcano?

Narmada Water Park is a place for seekers of the elixir of life. The water element is presented here in different guises: clean lakes, fountains and a pool will give new strength. Life-giving streams roll down from a high mountain, filling and renewing natural reservoirs. The Fountain of Youth is known for its healing properties. Washing under its jets, you should not worry about the condition of the skin of the face. Skilled textile workers still live in the village of Sukarare. Looking at their products is a real pleasure. Here you can watch how textile fabrics of incredible beauty are created by hand in stages.

Gili Meno Island

This inconspicuous island is located near Lombok and Bali. Silence is everywhere on Gili Meno. Therefore, this is not a place for lovers of fun. But the calm measured atmosphere of the island will be appreciated by the newlyweds, the elderly and those who are bored with the hectic city life.

When to go to Gili Meno

To fully enjoy a beach holiday on Gili Meno, it is better to travel from May to October. From November it starts to rain, and sometimes there are already showers.

With high humidity, the heat begins to be tolerated by tourists much harder. But it should be noted that the “wet season” is not an obstacle for tourists. Most of the precipitation falls during the winter months. The rest of the time it rains intermittently. If suddenly it starts to drip from the sky, then the pool will become your best friend at any time.

Things to do on Gili Meno

This island amazes with “doing nothing”. Everything that can somehow diversify a beach holiday is missing here. Therefore, one must prepare either to contemplate the serene expanse of water all day long and enjoy the local views, or to lie in a hotel. The only “entertainment” available is cycling and horseback riding. At times, boredom is hidden by gatherings in local cafes: they offer impressive views of the blue waves and the passing boats. In general, the rest on Gili Meno will be quiet and serene. It will bring harmony and allow you to feel like a part of nature untouched by man.

Gili Trawangan Island

Gili Trawangan is the exact opposite of Gili Meno. Trawangan has a large length, it is the busiest. Endless cafes stretch along the embankment. This island does not give the impression of detachment from everything earthly. It is noisy here and there are currently many buildings under construction that spoil the whole “picture”. But if you move away from the beach a few meters closer to the center of the island, you can find quite a lot of housing where wild screams and other people's laughter are not heard.

When to go to Gili Trawangan

Then same, when and on Gili Meno. These tropical Indonesian islands are located next door. Consequently, the weather conditions on them are not particularly different. The period from May to October is the “golden time” for visiting the island.

Things to do on Gili Trawangan

There are relatively few activities on Gili Trawangan, although this is not an island for solitude. Transport here is completely absent, which indescribably pleases many tourists. Bicycles and horses are used for transportation. Trawangan is a great place for snorkeling. In order to prevent snorkeling from becoming a usual viewing of the inhabitants of the sea, it is necessary to study in advance the types of local marine inhabitants. Then snorkeling is much more interesting, especially for beginners. For those who like gatherings by the sea, there are cafes where you can notably “dine”. You can relax and dream at sunset, each of which on Gili Trawangan stuns with its inimitable splendor. To capture a sunset that you will never see again in your life, do not forget your camera.

Mentawai Islands

The Mentawai Islands are wild and undeveloped. The locals were isolated from the rest of the world's population until the 19th century. As many as 70 small islands are still not particularly visited by tourists. Life on the Mentawai flows measuredly. There are neither youth parties here, nor the usual restaurants and fashionable hotels that can be found in every popular resort. The beauty of the Mentawai Islands lies in their isolation. Getting to them is not easy, but believe me, the journey is worth it. Once on the Mentawai, the same childhood dream comes true, when you wanted to become Robinson Crusoe even for a day. Anyone who ate the famous heavenly chocolate, on the wrapper of which there were palm trees and blue waves, obviously wanted to visit this “fairy tale” sometime.

When to go to the Mentawai Islands

To visit the islands, it is better to choose the time from May to June or from September to October. During these periods, the climate is most favorable for recreation. The weather is relatively constant. The rest of the time, some troubles are not ruled out, which can significantly affect the perception of the beauty of the Mentawai Islands.

Things to do in the Mentawai Islands

Surfers from many countries love to come to the islands. After all, here are the best conditions for surfing. Almost all thematic videos are filmed here. The waves in the Mentawai Islands are the most suitable for both professionals and beginners. Plus, there is a high probability that no one will interfere with conquering water heights. An ordinary walk around the island will seem fascinating. After all, there are many amazing animals and hitherto unseen plants. Diving and diving will not interfere with rest: fish are perfectly visible in clear water. And fishing will bring pleasure even from the very process of fishing, not to mention prey. Sitting with a fishing rod in the middle of the blue sea and looking at the horizon line going into the distance will appeal to every avid fisherman. The Mentawai Islands are still inhabited by tribes. They are definitely worth looking at. It's not every day that you meet people who are far from civilization. Their way of life and customs will surprise any sophisticated traveler.

Going to the group of Indonesian islands, do not forget to take care of mosquito repellents. It is better to take mosquito nets and protective sprays or creams with you. In order for the trip to go smoothly and without trouble, it is better not to rely on “maybe”.

Flores Island

The flower name of the island was due to the Portuguese in the 16th century. There are almost as many flowers in Flores as in other nearby tropical regions. The island develops only thanks to tourism. The indigenous population is engaged in agriculture and crafts.

When to go to Flores

You should not plan a vacation from November to March inclusive (rainy season). The rest of the time is perfect for holidays.

Things to do in Flores

There are several villages where local artisans live. They make quality fabrics. There are beautiful waterfalls on Flores, which are admired by almost all tourists. There is a lake in the Kelimutu National Park, which is colored in different colors due to the mineral salts released from the volcano. Whale catching has not yet been banned on the island. So you can hunt like ancient people.

Nusa Lembongan Island

It is located near Bali, half an hour away by boat. Nusa Lembongan is different from its well-known neighbor. The water is emerald, not sky-colored. There are two large beaches on this piece of land. There are also small ones that are the least visited.

When to go to Nusa Lembongan

The most suitable season is from April to the end of September. Like all Indonesian islands, Nusa Lembongan is dominated by two seasons. “Non-touristic” is characterized by a large amount of precipitation.

Things to do on Nusa Lembongan

The best pastime is surfing, diving and snorkeling. The beaches of the island are within relative reach. Therefore, on foot you can walk from one place of rest to another. The beaches have their own characteristics, which are worth a look to get the full impression of this tropical island.

Sumatra island

Its name is probably on everyone's lips. And no wonder, because it is the fifth largest island in the world. It is densely populated and remarkable in terms of attractions.

When to go to Sumatra

The island has high humidity. There are many rivers and lakes here. The most successful trip to Sumatra will be in May-October, when there is less rainfall.

Things to do in Sumatra

Sumatra has created many destinations for quality recreation. Few people manage to see all the sights of the island at once. Paradise Mosque, Maimun Palace, Military Museum, Toba Lake, National Parks, Krakatoa Volcano – these and other remarkable places make Sumatra one of the most curious islands in Indonesia.

Kalimantan Island

An interesting fact is that it belongs not only to Indonesia, but also to Malaysia and Brunei. Borneo has inspired many famous writers and even scientists. Ancient tropical forests, impenetrable jungles and endless mountains can inspire the most demanding traveler.

When to go to Borneo

Rain can fall on the island of code anywhere. Usually precipitation falls at night and is short-lived (to the great happiness of tourists). In autumn, the rains are prolonged. They begin to end by the end of January. Russians visit Borneo even in adverse climatic conditions, because the island deserves to be constantly visited by guests.

Things to do in Borneo

The size of the island allowed dozens of unusual sights to fit on it. An ethnographic museum, climbing Kinabalu (for more details in our article), getting to know the natives, reserves and a turtle farm – a meager list of what is required for inspection. In the Gunung Mulu park, a cable car hanging from the trees will beckon you. Walking along it can be compared with the coolest rides. Crazy landscapes open up to brave walkers from a height.