One of the most popular spots for backpackers searching for adventure and looking to step into the unknown and Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands, many of which remain largely unexplored.
Island hopping in this remote paradise offers many pleasures including innumerable immaculate beaches perfect for diving and snorkelling, tropical jungles ideal for trekking and colourful cities to party in.
Indonesia’s history and cultural blend makes it a great place to spend a gap year.
Top Rated Opportunities
Best Gap Year Programs in Indonesia
• Island Hopping
• Volunteering
• Teaching
Highlights
Bali: Perhaps best known for its monkey villages, age old volcanoes, dazzling beaches and historic temples Bali delivers on all its promises and is a mecca for travellers looking for a little piece of paradise. Keep your eyes open for playful dolphins which inhabit Bali’s waters. For a rewarding experience you might like to volunteer in Bali.
Lombok: A true surfers’ paradise Lombok is popular with water sports enthusiasts and has been rated one of the world’s best spots for diving, snorkelling and surfing. Less developed than Bali, and some say less spoilt, Lombok is generously scattered with paradise beaches and picturesque scenery including the impressive active volcano; Gunung Rinjani.
Krakatau Volcano: Better known as Krakatoa, this group of volcano-islands are located between Java and Sumatra. Probably one of the world’s most infamous volcanoes Krakatau killed 30,000 in an eruption in 1883. A stunning historical sight to behold, Krakatau puts into perspective the immense power of nature, definitely worth a visit.
Bohorok Orang-utan Viewing Centre: Very popular with visitors this prominent wildlife centre is dedicated to rehabilitating Orang-utan’s coming out of captivity and preparing them for life in the wild. The centre offers visitors the once-in a life time opportunity to get up close to these charming creatures. Some operators offer volunteer programs with organutans if this appeals to you.
Indonesia Backpacking Tips
• Climate and Best Time to Visit: Indonesia’s climate can be summed up in one word: HOT. Practically located right on the equator Indonesia’s tropical location means it has a wet and dry season, both of which are hot. Temperatures usually reach around 31 degrees Celsius on the coast. The best time to visit is the dry season between April and October.
• Currency: Rupiah (Rp)
• Religion: 88% Muslim, 8% Christian, 2% Hindu.
• Language: Indonesian (official) and English, Javanese and Sudanese in some parts.
• Budget: Accommodation is cheap and the people are friendly & welcoming so you’ll find that your budget stretches further here but cost of living can vary from place to place given the size of this country.
• Health Conditions: Dengue fever, giardiasis, hepatitis, Japanese B encephalitis, malaria, rabies and typhoid. Consult your GP about recommended inoculations.