If you’re looking to hike Indonesia, then you are probably already aware of the notable hikes in the region. The most blogged about and advertised hikes such as Mt Batur, Mt Agung, Mt Rinjani and Ijen Crater leap out at you from any website about the subject. Including this one. However in a country as diverse as Indonesia there are hundreds of hikes that either don’t get the recognition they deserve, don’t feature in many hike Indonesia lists, or are just hidden behind the others.
I have decided to toss up a few notable hikes for your consideration next time you’re in the area.
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Table of Contents
Kelimutu Lakes
Any visitors to the Flores region tend to spend most of their time in the Komodo National Park in search of the Komodo Dragons, and anyone that is looking for a good hike will most likely end up on Padar Island. The tragic fact is that one of the best experiences in Indonesia can actually be found on the island of Flores itself. The three Kelimutu Lakes are miracles of nature due to the fact that they are constantly changing colors. This is caused by the oxidization levels in conjunction with the levels of iron and manganese. Hikers to the lakes will never know what color they are going to be when they arrive there, and even that can change hourly. The hike itself is only short, at about 30 minutes, but some thought needs to be put into actually getting to the trail head. In our opinion, though, it’s totally worth the effort!
Tumpak Sewu
Tumpak Sewu is located in the East of Java, and is literally translated from Javanese as “Thousand Waterfalls”. The origin of the name is readily apparent to any visitors. The river above that forms the waterfalls spreads itself out to pour over the edge of a natural sinkhole, forming dozens of small waterfalls that tumble over a hundred meters to the bottom. The size and power of the waterfalls is amazing, and the sight is something that is totally out of this world. For photographers, if the sight of the falls isn’t enough, the chance for an amazing shot is available from the viewpoint that will capture the falls with Mt Semeru presiding in the background. These falls are not the largest in Indonesia, or even Java, but are arguably the most impressive, and certainly not to be missed.
Devil’s Tears
The famous Devil’s Tears on Nusa Lembongan are often overlooked by visitors to the island. Indeed, there is so much to do in the area that I almost overlooked them myself on my first visit. Located along the Western tip of the island, visitors can find them by following the signs to Dream Beach. Devil’s Tears are only a short walk along the cliffs from the beach. If the swell is up, don’t venture too close as the raw power of the ocean smashes against the low cliff, exploding into the air with tremendous force and coming back to earth as hundreds of tiny droplets of salt water spray aka The Devil’s Tears. A little further around you can also find some pretty amazing tide pools that are able to be explored when the ocean is calmer. From there you can hike all the way back to Mushroom bay around the coastline. If you are there in the late afternoon, make certain to watch what may be one of the best sunsets in the the whole region.
Wae Rebo
Another hike that can be found on the island of Flores. The village of Wae Rebo is not to be missed if you are looking for the ultimate cultural experience. Not easy to get to, the trip involves a long drive with a guide, or a four hour motorbike ride that can best be described as an adventure in itself! Once the trail head has been located, the hike takes only a couple of hours. The best tip is to arrive in the afternoon and plan to stay the night in a quaint and unique traditional village. Get to know the locals and immerse yourself in the culture. If you’re willing to go to any length for a unique experience, then the hike to Wae Rebo village is for you.
Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is located in the far north of Sumatra, and is one of the only places that you can see the Orangutan in it’s natural environment. The village itself is almost a part of the experience. Surrounded by jungle, it features a raging river, suspension bridges and is teeming with wildlife. Once in your accommodation, it is easy to sign up to an Orangutan trek. These usually consist of a two day trek out into the jungle where you are guaranteed of encountering numerous Orangutan. It is an experience you will never forget and if you are seriously looking to hike Indonesia, this one has to be near the top of your list.
So there you have it. Five experiences that may not be the longest and hardest hikes in Indonesia, but certainly should make the lists of anyone in search of unforgettable experiences. Hike Indonesia today! You won’t be disappointed.
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