Indonesia attracts both tourists and athletes from around the world. Its geography and landscapes lend themselves to all kinds of physical activities. So, if you enjoy exerting yourself while discovering new things and a new culture, set your course for the archipelago! Find in this article a top 5 of sports activities in Indonesia.

5. Snorkeling

Snorkeling in the Bunaken islands in Sulawesi, photo © by Dudarev Mikhail via Shutterstock

Snorkeling is one of the most common sports activities in Indonesia. It tests your physical performance in aquatic environments while giving you the chance to admire Indonesian marine wildlife. Your equipment typically includes fins, a mask, and a snorkel. Moreover, with over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers you a wide array of dive sites. You can fully enjoy this activity by visiting:

• Bali : Secret Bay, Seraya Secret, Crystal Bay, and Manta Point
• The Gili Islands
• The Komodo National Park
• The Moluccas archipelago
• Alor Island

4. Whitewater Rafting

Rafting at Songa Probollingo, East Java, photo © by INDONESIAPIX via Shutterstock

Do you love thrills and adrenaline? Try rafting in Indonesia. Armed with courage, a life jacket, a protective helmet, and a paddle, navigate through the jungles and rice fields of the country aboard an inflatable raft, through white waters.

Furthermore, you can enjoy rafting in Bali, on the rivers Telaga Waja and Ayung, in Flores, Java, and Sumatra. This activity is suitable for everyone, from age seven onwards. For greater safety and information, contact professionals to benefit from proper supervision. Some courses are reserved more for experienced rafters, but you'll always find a route that suits all levels!

3. Trekking

Sunrise at Mount Rinjani in Lombok, photo © by Soft_Light via Shutterstock

Trekking is the most sought-after vacation activity in Indonesia. Practicing it allows you to push your physical limits while embarking on a discovery of Indonesia's wild landscapes. On the archipelago, several trails are available to trekkers seeking new experiences:

• The terraced rice fields of Bali and Nusa Penida
• The most beautiful volcanoes of Indonesia such as Mount Bromo in eastern Java, Mount Batur in Bali, or Mount Kerinci in Sumatra
• The Baliem Valley in Papua
• The Toraja mountains in Sulawesi, etc.

2. Surfing

Surfing a wave in Bali, photo © by Trubavin via Shutterstock

Moreover, more and more surfers are coming to Indonesia. Indeed, the archipelago boasts several surfing sites, and these breaks are suitable for both beginners and professional training. Before diving in, beginners have the opportunity to take basic lessons from more experienced surfers. Furthermore, seasoned athletes can directly take on the swells after gathering some tips from those familiar with Indonesian waves. If this extreme sport tempts you, here's a very short list of the best surfing spots in Indonesia:

• Kuta Beach in Bali
• Batu Karas in West Java
• Teleng Ria Beach in East Java
• Gerupuk in Lombok
• Pulau Nias in Sumatra

1. Canyoning

Sekumpul Falls in Bali, photo © by Lukas Uher via Shutterstock

Finally, it's the preferred activity of thrill-seekers. Thus, canyoning is defined as a combination of climbing, hiking, and whitewater sports. In Indonesia, test your abilities by engaging in this extreme sport that requires agility, strength, and precision. Your efforts are rewarded by discoveries and unique views through Indonesian nature. Also, to practice this activity safely, it is strongly recommended that you do your research beforehand. The best canyoning sites in Indonesia are located in Bali, particularly around Ubud and Sanur.