Can you envision yourself driving through a country with mesmerizing beauty, countless islands, endless beaches, and delicious cuisine? A place where you can see the Komodo dragon. What if in the same country you could get a close view of Rafflesia Arnoldi, the world’s largest flower while road tripping? Sounds too good to be real, but Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, according to World Vision International, is a popular destination in the world. It promises both beauty and adventure and traveling by car gives you the freedom to grasp the country’s charm of lush forest, captivating beaches, remote villages, and magical volcanoes. You can also check out historical temples, have breakfast in the company of orangutans, marvel at jaw-dropping architecture, go for scenic hikes, and enjoy deep sea diving. Ready for an incredible road trip experience? In this post, we’ll discuss 3 road trip routes to explore in Indonesia.
Bandar Lampung to Sabang, Sumatra
Covering 2,700 kms, this route presents opportunities to see unique wildlife, learn about indigenous cultures, and enjoy the thrill of jungle trekking. Your journey on this road starts from southern Sumatra, with your first stop being at the Way Kambas National Park. The park is home to marbled cats, Sunda clouded leopards, the flat-headed cat, and endangered Sumatran elephants, tigers, and rhinos. Once you’re back on the highway, drive to the river city of Palembang. Here, you can visit the richest archeological site in Muaro Jambi, and explore the ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples around. From Muaro Jambi, leave the highway and take a detour along the beautiful Batanghari River to Padang. If you’re a foodie or love sampling different cuisines, make sure you try rendang, the nation’s famous Padang food.
Your journey continues northwards along the highway, through Bukittinggi to Lake Toba. At Bukittinggi, you’ll get distant views of volcanic mountains, Mt. Merali and Mt. Singgalang. You could also visit historic sites, like the underground tunnels built by the Japanese during World War 2, see the world’s largest flower, or hike in Sanok Valley. When you reach the mythical ocean-blue volcanic Lake Toba, take a dip in the cool water, explore Samosir Island, and interact with locals who will educate you about Batik culture. Back on the road, head north to Medan, shop and taste colorful street food before driving to Banda Aceh, where you’ll take a ferry to cross to Sabang and have fun diving or relaxing at the beach. When planning your trip around Sumatra, find a sturdy vehicle, like an SUV, to have a stress-free trip.
Drive to Banyuwangi from Jakarta
Do you love long scenic drives filled with adventure? Explore Java Island, from Jakarta to Banyuwangi by car to see dazzling landscapes, meet friendly locals, discover the diversity of Indonesia, and explore beautiful urban escapes, including Jakarta. Your adventure begins at the capital city, Jakarta, where you can check out Monas, a National Monument or visit the old city. Then you’ll head to Bandung or the ‘Paris of Indonesia’. Along the way to Bandung, you’ll pass rice fields before taking a 30 minute side trip outside the city and drive up Tangkuban Perahu, an active volcano. Don’t forget to grab a snack at the floating market Lembang. From Bandung, drive to Pekalongan and savor the panoramic views surrounding the city. For instance, you could take a detour to Bajing Waterfall, see the cascading water drop over a rocky edge. Also, visit Museum Batik Pekalongan, where you’ll learn about the region’s history of authentic batik fabric patterns.
Your next city from Pekalongan is Borobudur, where you can’t leave without visiting the fascinating Borobudur Buddhist temple. The temples of Pawok and Mendut are other notable sites you should explore. You’ll then drive to Solo along a mountain road bordered by two volcanoes, Merbabi and Merapi. Something you can’t miss doing here is climbing up Merapi, an active volcano that’s sacred in Javanese culture. Your drive from Solo continues to Madiun where you can visit the foggy highlands where berries, including strawberries, grow. You’ll then pass through Surabaya to Banyuwangi, where you can get a ferry to Bali. At Surabaya, visit Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to witness piles of mountains puffing volcanoes in cone shapes. If you have extra days to spare, climb the highest mountain in Java, Mount Semeru.
Toraja Highland Drive, Sulawesi Island
Are you thinking of exploring Sulawesi Island? Consider the Toraja Highland drive to be your first route to explore. A drive through Toraja helps you understand why it’s famous for its intriguing funeral rituals. You’ll also notice amazing architecture, landscapes worth marveling, and rice fields, where you can go for walks. Using Rantepao, as your starting point, visit notable attraction sites, like Londa ancient graveyard, buffalos market, Toraja village, and Kete Kesu village. You’ll then drive along a narrow road that takes you to Lolai. Dubbed the Country Above the Clouds, Lolai provides a clear view of the entire valley wrapped by mist and fog, creating a bizarre feeling.
Continue driving to Bittuang, and go off-road to see the Dutch colonial period coffee plantations linked to the renowned Toraja coffee. Back on the road, you’ll encounter a challenging drive southwest of Toraja to Ollon Valley. To get to the hill, pass along the Sadan River, which winds up at Massapu River. You can enjoy rafting at Sadan River before or after going to Ollon hills, where you’ll enjoy beautiful sightings of butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
Is there a better way to savor the beauty and outdoor adventures Indonesia offers than road tripping? Exploring Indonesia by road lets you connect with nature and the people, and explore historical sites. While there are many routes you can take, consider starting with Bandar Lampung to Sabang in Sumatra Island. Or Jakarta to Bali in Java and Toraja Highland drive in south Sulawesi.
