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3 weeks round trip - September 2018

Of Indonesia's 17,508 islands, we visit Java, Sumatra and Karimunjawa. On the main island, we visit the impressive temples. On Sumatra, we explore the jungle with its exotic animals. And on Karimunjawa we enjoy the beach life.

Indonesia as a travel destination

There is very little crime in Indonesia and no special vaccinations are required.

However, there are a few things to bear in mind: The country is very large and very varied. It stretches approximately 1,870 km from north to south, with the largest east-west stretching over 5,000 km. The distances are almost impossible to cover without an airplane. Islam is practiced very strictly on Java and the island is very densely populated, which leads to traffic problems. The situation on Sumatra is completely different - at least outside of Medan. And the Karimunjawa Islands offer pure relaxation.

Flag of Indonesia
Perforated stupa on Borobudur
Pyamide of Borobudur
Ganesha statue in Prambanan
Temple complex of Prambanan
Pointed Hindu temple
Gargoyle on Borobudur

Temples on Java

The main island of Java has two important temples. One is Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple complex with its stepped pyramid structure. The other is Prambanan, with high, ornately decorated towers dedicated to the gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. These testimonies to Buddhist and Hindu architecture from the 8th and 9th centuries are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Canal in Yogyakarta
Water basin in the palace of the Sultan
Pavilion in the palace of Yogyakarta
Main building of the Sultan of Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta

The city is the cultural center of Java and serves as the starting point for the famous temples. The Sultanate of Yogyakarta still plays an important role in Indonesia today. The sultan's old palace can be visited.

Excursion boat on Karimunjawa
Beach with palm trees on Karimunjawa
Small forest on Dream Island
Palm beach with white sand
Sunset on Karimunjawa
Mangroves in Indonesia

Karimunjawa Islands

The Karimunjawa Islands are a tropical paradise around 80 km off the north coast of Java. They are known for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and species-rich coral reefs. The archipelago is part of a protected national park.

Fresh fish on Karimunjawa
Beach bar in Indonesia

Relaxed atmosphere far away from the capital

In contrast to Java, things are very relaxed on the archipelago. Drinks are available at a small beach bar and fresh fish is grilled in the evening.

Bukit Lawang on the river
Orang- Utan in the jungle
Close-up of Thomas langur
Southern hog monkey in Bukit Lawang
Southern hog monkey in the trees
Macaque monkey in Bukit Lawang

Sumatra - Bukit Lawang

From the small town of Bukit Lawang, we head straight into the jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park. A short hike gives you the chance to spot orangutans in the wild.

Marina Bay Sands Singapore
Super tree in Gardens by the Bay
Spectacle of light in Singapore
Several super trees Gardens by the Bay

Singapore

At the end of the trip, we still had some time left in Singapore. The light spectacle in the Gardens by the Bay directly behind the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel was truly impressive.