Indonesia is an interesting and complicated country. Made up of more than 17,000 islands, it is located between the Indian and Pacific oceans in both Southeast Asia and Oceania. That unique geography is what makes this such a beautiful place.
As such, the government has done a lot to protect that irreplaceable natural resource. Indonesia is one of the countries in the world with the most national parks. If you're heading to Indonesia, try to make some of them part of your trip. You won't regret it.
Tanjung Puting National Park
Located along the banks of the Sungai Sekoneyer River, this heavily forested expanse is best known for its connection to country's orangutans. Park outposts care for orphaned orangutan infants, the goal being to release them into the local wild population. Tanjung Puting offers an unique experience to connect with these animals but you still need to be respectful and cautious.
Bunaken National Marine Park
The beauty of the Indonesian national parks system is that it's not restricted to land. Parks like Bunaken protect the country's natural resources in the oceans. This park contains one of the densest areas of marine life on the planet, making diving experiences here life changing. The coral in Bunaken is absolutely stunning and the reefs are teeming with wildlife.
Komodo National Park
If there is an animal on Earth that could best be described as a modern dragon, it would be the Komodo. They can grow to nearly ten feet in length and way up to 330 pounds. And you can go to the national park where they live. While they do live on other islands, those areas are protected. Komodo National Park is the best place to experience these massive lizards safely.
Way Kambas National Park
Many of Indonesia's parks protect specific species on various levels of the endangered list. In the case of Way Kambas, the main species being protected are Sumatran elephants and rhinos. It offers you the best chance to see them. Additionally, the park is home to a borderline ludicrous number of birds. You may even spot the occasional tiger. From a safe distance, of course.
Ujung Kulon National Park
The explosion of the Krakatoa Volcano was incredibly destructive but it also created something special. It is at the foundations of the Ujung Kulon National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Vistiors to this park could spot some incredible wildlife including black panthers. leopards, crocodiles, gibbons, and the ultra rare one-horned rhino. There are only 70 left