Indonésie and its tropical islands form a little paradise on earth. Each island holds wonders that will surely amaze you. Beaches, ancient volcanoes, temples with unique architectures and many other attractions await you on the archipelago. With the range of activities available in the country, your days in Indonésie will always be full, rest assured! To make the most of your vacation, here are the 10 best things to do and see on a trip to Indonésie.

10. Visit Balinese temples

Pura Besakih Temple in Bali, photo © Igor Tichonow via Shutterstock

To start, visiting Hindu temples in Bali is among the must-do activities during a stay in Indonésie. Indeed, the Island of the Gods boasts no fewer than 10,000 pagodas as fascinating as each other. From these sacred places emanate pronounced serenity and spiritual energy. Visitors can sometimes take part in the various rituals organized there. Among the most popular temples, you will find: Tirta Empul, Besakih, Ulun Danu and Gunung Kawi.

9. Discover beautiful Indonesian beaches

Gili Air Island beach, photo © Timisimages via Shutterstock

The Indonesian islands offer many beautiful fine sand beaches washed by turquoise blue waters. They are thus true havens of peace for travelers wishing to enjoy the tropical sun and exotic cocktails. Among them, the beaches of Kuta in Bali, of Papuma in Java, the Gili islands, the Banda islands and Pulau Bintan in Sumatra stand out particularly.

8. Try snorkeling

Snorkeling in the Gili islands, photo © Dudarev Mikhail via Shutterstock

With its paradisiacal beaches, Indonésie offers many diving spots. Many tourists visit the archipelago to enjoy snorkeling, explore coral reefs and discover local marine fauna. You too can experience the joys of this water activity at Pulau Menjangan (Bali), in the reefs of the Flores and Komodo islands, on Derawan island or on Wakatobi island (Moluccas), etc.

7. Learn to surf

Surfing in Sumbawa, Sumatra, photo © Trubavin via Shutterstock

Still in the "water sports" category, several Indonesian beaches are suitable for surfing: Batu Karas in West Java, Teleng Ria Beach in East Java, Kuta Beach in Bali, Sunset Beach, Pelabuhan Ratu, etc. Spice up your stay by trying this extreme sport. On-site, professional surfers offer basic lessons. Beginners and experienced surfers will easily find their satisfaction!

6. Taste Indonesian cuisine

Indonesian cuisine, photo © Ariyani Tedjo via Shutterstock

Furthermore, Indonesian cuisine is spiced but nonetheless delicious. Also, most recipes come accompanied by rice, locally called nasi. Take advantage of your getaway on the archipelago to taste mie goreng (fried noodles), nasi goreng (fried rice) or nasi campur (rice dish topped with spiced ingredients). Also try gado-gado, a dish made of potatoes and peanut sauce.

5. Go trekking

Landscapes around Ubud, photo © Christophe Faugere via Shutterstock

Do you love trekking? Then rejoice, because Indonésie unfolds vast expanses of wild lands and lush forests. Indeed, different activities are possible depending on preferences and levels: volcano climbing, nature reserve exploration, discovery of zoos, hiking through rice paddies, etc.

4. Discover the most beautiful volcanoes of Indonésie

Mount Bromo, Java, photo © Galyna Andrushko via Shutterstock

While some travel to Indonésie to enjoy beaches and temples, others come to climb volcanoes. The archipelago contains over four hundred, of which seventy are still active. These delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It would be a shame not to visit a few during your stay. Among the most popular sites, you have the Kawah Ijen volcano, Mount Kerinci which stands as Indonésie's highest volcano and Mount Batur renowned for its view and magnificent sunrise.

3. Explore Ubud's Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest, photo © Shutterstock

The Ubud Monkey Forest is among Bali's main tourist sites. Located in the village of Padangtegal, this gigantic nature reserve is home to over six hundred crab-eating macaques spread across five territories. The ruins scattered throughout the jungle give it the appearance of an ancient sanctuary where you will find old monuments adorned with sculptures and small statues.

2. Explore Komodo National Park

Komodo Island, photo © Luke Wait via Shutterstock

Along with the Sacred Monkey Forest of Ubud, Komodo National Park proves to be a very renowned Indonesian reserve. This nature jewel is located in the Lesser Sunda Islands. Within its territory of 1,817 km², you will encounter the legendary Komodo dragons, as well as many cetacean species. Protected as a reserve for over thirty years, the park has been part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1991.

1. Discover Indonesian fauna and flora at Ragunan Zoo

Zebra at Ragunan Zoo, photo © Teguh Jati Prasetyo via Shutterstock

Finally, Ragunan Zoo is located on the island of Java, in the southern part of Jakarta. This 140-hectare zoological park is home to approximately 3,000 animals and over 170 plant varieties. Among its residents, count several species of reptiles (king cobras, turtles, reticulated pythons...), mammals (macaques, gorillas, beavers...), birds (swans, Java eagles, cockatoos...), etc.