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Indonesia in black & white: 10 Photos we love and the stories behind them

Julie RASCOL — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 01:43:22 +0000

Indonesia in black & white: 10 Photos we love and the stories behind them

Through our travels across Indonesia, we’ve shared our favourite places, local discoveries and travel tips with you through the Stay In blog. Along the way, we’ve also captured countless moments through our lens.

From early mornings spent watching the sun rise over volcanoes to everyday scenes of local life, some photographs stay with us long after the moment has passed. There is something special about black and white photography: it draws attention to the details, the contrasts and the emotions that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Today, we’re sharing 10 of our favourite photographs taken across Indonesia. Each one captures a different side of the country we love, along with a little piece of the story behind it.

1. Mount Agung at sunrise

Mount Agung is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, but seeing it emerge above the clouds is a completely different experience from simply admiring it from a distance. In the early hours of the morning, the landscape feels almost otherworldly, with layers of mist drifting between the mountain ridges and the first light slowly revealing their shapes. In this photograph, a lone figure stands on the summit of a dark ridge, surrounded by an immense sea of clouds. The contrast between the small human silhouette and the vast landscape captures the feeling of standing somewhere remote, where the world seems to stretch far beyond what we can see. Black and white photography brings out the textures of the volcanic terrain and the softness of the clouds, creating a scene that feels both powerful and peaceful. It is a reminder that some of the most memorable moments in Indonesia happen when we wake up early, venture into the mountains and take the time to appreciate the landscapes around us.

2. A fishing boat in Lombok

Along the coast of Lombok, traditional fishing boats remain an important part of everyday life. Their distinctive wooden structures and long outriggers are a familiar sight on the water, connecting generations of fishermen to the sea that surrounds their island. This photograph captures two men aboard a small boat, one standing as he balances beside the long wooden mast while the other sits closer to the centre. The horizon is simple and uninterrupted, allowing the boat and its occupants to become the focus of the image. Without colour, the details of the wood, the movement of the water and the shape of the boat stand out more clearly. There is something timeless about this scene: a reminder that beyond Lombok’s beautiful beaches and growing tourism scene, daily life continues to follow the rhythms of the ocean. It is these quieter moments, often encountered while exploring the coastline, that reveal another side of the island and make us want to keep discovering it.

3. A day in the rice fields of Ubud

Ubud is often associated with its cafés, wellness retreats and beautiful rice terraces, but agriculture remains at the heart of the surrounding landscape. Walking through the villages beyond the centre, it is possible to witness the work that sustains these fields and the communities who care for them. This photograph captures a local worker carrying large baskets of crops balanced across a bamboo pole, surrounded by tropical vegetation. The composition highlights the physical effort involved in transporting the harvest, while the palms and dense greenery create a strong sense of place. It is an everyday scene, yet one that tells an important story about the relationship between people and the land. Rice cultivation in Bali is closely connected to community traditions and the subak irrigation system, which reflects the island’s long-standing approach to sharing water and managing agricultural land. Through this image, we are reminded that the beauty of Bali is not only found in its scenery, but also in the people whose work shapes it every day.

4. An offering to the Gods

In Bali, spirituality is woven into everyday life. Offerings, known locally as canang sari, are placed at temples, family shrines and other meaningful spaces as expressions of gratitude and devotion. This photograph captures a woman carefully tending to a shrine decorated with intricate carvings and ceremonial umbrellas. Her attention is directed towards the offering, creating a quiet moment within a setting filled with elaborate details. The black and white tones draw our eyes to the textures of the stone, the patterns of her traditional clothing and the delicate arrangement of the shrine. Rather than focusing on a large ceremony, the image offers a glimpse of a personal ritual, one that may be repeated regularly as part of daily life. These moments are easy to overlook when travelling, yet they reveal so much about Bali’s cultural identity. Observing them respectfully allows us to better appreciate the traditions that continue to shape the island beyond its beaches and landscapes.

5. A fisherman’s life in Lombok

The sea plays a central role in life across Lombok, providing food, livelihoods and a deep connection to the island’s coastal communities. This photograph shows a fisherman aboard his traditional wooden boat, surrounded by the calm waters and distant hills of the coastline. His conical hat and the simple structure of the boat create a striking silhouette against the sea, while the lines of the wooden poles guide the eye through the frame. There is a quiet sense of concentration in the scene, suggesting the patience and familiarity required to work on the water. Although Lombok is increasingly known for its surf breaks, turquoise bays and laid-back beach towns, its relationship with the sea extends far beyond tourism. Fishing remains part of the daily rhythm of many communities, and traditional boats are a visible reminder of this connection. Through this photograph, we wanted to capture a moment of coastal life that feels understated and authentic, where the landscape and the person within it are inseparable.

6. Stillness on Lake Batur

Lake Batur, nestled in the highlands of Kintamani, offers a quieter side of Bali, far from the busy southern coast. Surrounded by volcanic mountains and shaped by the island’s dramatic landscape, the lake is a place where the scenery feels vast and the pace of life slows down. This photograph captures a traditional wooden floating structure with a small thatched shelter resting on the calm waters of Danau Batur. A lone figure stands on the platform, while the distant shoreline fades softly into the background. The reflections on the water and the subtle contrasts between the sky, the lake and the surrounding hills create a feeling of stillness. In black and white, the details of the wooden structure and the landscape take centre stage, revealing the quiet beauty of this part of Bali. It is a reminder that beyond the island’s beaches and well-known attractions, places like Lake Batur invite us to slow down, look closer and appreciate a different side of Indonesia.

7. Chasing waves in Uluwatu

Uluwatu is one of Bali’s best-known surfing destinations, attracting surfers from around the world with its powerful waves, dramatic cliffs and open views of the Indian Ocean. This photograph captures a surfer walking towards the water with his board under one arm, while a wave rises and breaks behind him. The contrast between the movement of the ocean and the calm posture of the surfer creates a moment of anticipation, as if the next ride is only seconds away. Surfing is an important part of Uluwatu’s identity, but the experience is about more than the waves themselves. It is also about reading the conditions, waiting for the right moment and developing a connection with the ocean. The monochrome treatment emphasises the foam, the shape of the swell and the silhouette of the surfer against the shoreline. It captures the raw energy of Bali’s coastline and the simple appeal of spending a day by the sea, whether you are an experienced surfer or simply there to watch.

8. Into the forests of Sumatra

Sumatra is home to some of Indonesia’s most remarkable tropical landscapes, with vast stretches of forest that support extraordinary biodiversity. Seen from above, the forest appears almost endless, its dense canopy forming a textured landscape that extends towards the horizon. In this photograph, layers of mist drift between the trees, softening the distance and creating a feeling of depth and mystery. A few taller trees rise above the canopy, standing out against the softer shapes around them. The black and white tones highlight the richness of the vegetation through contrast rather than colour, revealing the different layers and textures of the landscape. Beyond its beauty, Sumatra’s forests are vital ecosystems that support wildlife, regulate water cycles and store carbon. They also face significant pressures from deforestation and habitat loss. This image invites us to appreciate the scale and complexity of these environments, while remembering the importance of protecting the natural places that make Indonesia so extraordinary.

9. Inside the rice terraces of Jatiluwih

The rice terraces of Jatiluwih are among Bali’s most recognisable agricultural landscapes, with green fields following the natural contours of the hills. Yet beyond their beauty, these terraces represent a living farming tradition maintained through generations of knowledge and cooperation. This photograph focuses on two workers moving through the rice plants, their conical hats standing out against the repeated lines and textures of the field. By framing the scene closely, the image shifts attention away from the wide panoramic views that Jatiluwih is famous for and towards the people who work within the landscape. The rice plants create an almost abstract pattern, while the figures give the photograph a sense of scale and movement. Jatiluwih is part of Bali’s UNESCO-recognised cultural landscape, associated with the traditional subak irrigation system. This photograph is a reminder that these beautiful terraces are not simply scenery to admire: they are working fields, shaped and maintained by the communities who depend on them.

10. A Balinese temple overlooking Mount Agung

Few places capture the spirit of Bali quite like Lempuyang Temple, with its iconic split gate framing the majestic silhouette of Mount Agung. In this photograph, the traditional temple gate stands in the foreground, opening towards the distant volcano as clouds gather around its slopes. Visitors move through the temple courtyard, adding a sense of scale to the architecture and the immense mountain beyond it. The scene brings together two defining elements of Balinese culture: its deep spiritual traditions and its powerful natural landscapes. Mount Agung, the highest volcano on the island, holds profound significance in Balinese Hinduism, making its presence behind the temple particularly meaningful. The monochrome tones emphasise the symmetry of the gate, the intricate details of the temple roofs and the layers of clouds surrounding the mountain. Beyond its iconic appearance, this view reflects the close relationship between spirituality, architecture and nature that makes Bali so distinctive.

We hope you’ve enjoyed discovering these 10 photographs as much as we enjoyed capturing them. Each image offers a glimpse into the landscapes, traditions and everyday moments that make Indonesia such a special place to explore. We hope they inspire you to look beyond the familiar, discover new places and create your own memories across the archipelago.

If you’d like to discover more of Indonesia, our Stay In physical travel guides are filled with photographs, local recommendations and carefully selected places to help you explore each destination at your own pace. From Bali to Lombok and the Gili Islands, they’re designed to be more than just guides — a little piece of Indonesia to take home with you.

The article Indonesia in black & white: 10 Photos we love and the stories behind them appeared first on Stay In.

Jimbaran Seafood Market: Fresh fish & local life in Bali

Julie RASCOL — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 03:27:40 +0000

Jimbaran Seafood Market: fresh fish & local life in Bali

Located on Bali’s southern coast, just a short drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Jimbaran is famous for its beautiful bay, traditional fishing culture and fresh seafood. The nearby Kedonganan Fish Market, at the northern end of Jimbaran Bay, offers a glimpse into local life, with fishermen bringing in their daily catch and vendors selling fresh fish, prawns, crabs, squid and shellfish.

Beyond the market, colourful fishing boats line the shore, while beachfront restaurants prepare fresh seafood against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Whether you visit in the morning to explore the lively market or in the evening for a sunset dinner by the sea, Jimbaran is a wonderful place to experience Bali’s fishing traditions, local flavours and coastal charm.

Read more: ‘5 Best markets in Uluwatu’

Kedonganan Fish Market: A taste of local life

For the most authentic experience, arrive early in the morning, when the market is at its liveliest. As fishing boats return and the night’s catch is brought ashore, vendors begin sorting and displaying their seafood while local buyers and restaurant suppliers come to select the best products. The atmosphere is energetic and wonderfully unpolished, with conversations between sellers, the sound of moving boats and the constant activity of a traditional working market. It is a fascinating place to observe a side of Bali that many visitors never get to see.

Inside, you will find an impressive variety of fresh seafood, depending on the day’s catch. Snapper, tuna and other local fish sit alongside prawns, squid, crabs, lobsters and shellfish. The selection changes with the season, weather and fishing conditions, making every visit slightly different. Seafood is generally sold by weight, so take your time to walk around the stalls, compare what is available and ask vendors about their products before making a choice. If you plan to buy something, bringing cash is a good idea.

Beyond the seafood itself, the market offers an insight into the community and traditions that shape life along this part of Bali’s coast. Fishermen, vendors, restaurant owners and local families all contribute to the daily rhythm of the market. The atmosphere is busy, sometimes messy, and full of character — a refreshing contrast to Bali’s more polished tourist spots. Wear comfortable shoes, be mindful of the wet floors and ask before taking close-up photographs of people. For travellers interested in local culture and food, Kedonganan Fish Market is well worth an early start.

Jimbaran Beach: Fishing Boats, Ocean Views & Golden Sunsets

Once you have explored the market, take some time to discover the coastline around Jimbaran Bay. The long stretch of sand, traditional fishing boats and views across the Indian Ocean create a relaxed atmosphere that feels different from Bali’s more surf-focused beaches. Near Kedonganan, you can often see boats resting on the shore and fishermen going about their daily routines. Watching the activity along the water is a reminder that this is not simply a tourist destination, but a place where fishing remains part of everyday life.

As the afternoon progresses, Jimbaran takes on a different mood. The light softens, the beach becomes a gathering place, and visitors and locals arrive to enjoy the sea breeze before sunset. Walking along the sand is a lovely way to experience the bay, observe the fishermen and watch the sky change colour over the ocean. The sunset is one of Jimbaran’s main attractions, with warm golden tones often spreading across the horizon as the fishing boats create silhouettes against the water. It is a beautiful setting for photographs, a quiet stroll or simply taking a moment to enjoy the view.

As evening approaches, the beachfront seafood restaurants begin to fill with diners, and the beach transforms into an open-air dining area. Tables are arranged directly on the sand, grills begin to smoke, and the smell of freshly cooked seafood drifts along the shore. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively, with the sound of waves providing the soundtrack to dinner. This combination of fishermen, local beach life and sunset dining is what makes Jimbaran so distinctive — and why so many travellers choose to end their day here.

Where to eat: beachfront restaurants or from the market?

The best way to enjoy Jimbaran’s seafood is to dine at one of the beachfront restaurants. Choose from fresh fish, prawns, squid and crab, grilled over charcoal and served with rice and Indonesian sauces. With your feet in the sand and the sunset over the ocean, it’s a classic Bali dining experience.

For a more local experience, visit Kedonganan Fish Market and choose your own seafood directly from the vendors. You can then pay a nearby warung or seafood stall to cook it for you. Some restaurants may also prepare seafood purchased at the market, so ask beforehand.

Whichever option you choose, check the price per kilogram and confirm any cooking fees before ordering. If you buy your seafood at the market, remember that not every restaurant will cook outside purchases. Either way, Jimbaran is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood and discover Bali’s coastal food culture.

Jimbaran Seafood Market offers more than just fresh seafood — it is a glimpse into Bali’s coastal traditions and the daily lives of the communities who depend on the ocean. From the lively stalls of Kedonganan Fish Market to the traditional fishing boats along the shore, the area offers a more authentic perspective on Bali beyond its well-known beach clubs and cafés.

Whether you explore the market in the early morning or settle down for a seafood dinner as the sun sets over Jimbaran Bay, this is a place worth adding to your Bali itinerary. Come for the fresh catch, stay for the ocean views, and discover a different side of the island through its food and fishing culture.

Read more: ’10 Things to do in Uluwatu’

The article Jimbaran Seafood Market: Fresh fish & local life in Bali appeared first on Stay In.

Mount Rinjani: Everything you need to know before the climb

Julie RASCOL — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 02:10:29 +0000

Mount Rinjani: Everything you need to know before the climb

An honest guide to climbing Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, from choosing your route and guide to surviving the summit push, and enjoying the mountain along the way.

There are mountains you climb for the view, and mountains you climb because the climb itself becomes part of the story. Mount Rinjani is very much the latter. Rising to 3,726 metres above sea level, Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and dominates the northern half of Lombok. From a distance, it looks almost impossibly large: a broad volcanic landscape of savannah, crater walls, dark ridges and, hidden inside its caldera, the blue-green waters of Segara Anak. The mountain is not simply a summit to tick off. It is an entire landscape, shaped by eruptions, forests, volcanic rock and changing weather. The enormous caldera was formed by a much larger prehistoric eruption, while the younger Mount Barujari, rising from the crater lake, remains volcanically active. The last significant eruption occurred in 2015, when ash and lava were emitted from Barujari.

What makes Rinjani particularly memorable is the contrast between its different environments. You begin in open countryside and golden savannah, climb towards the crater rim, spend a night looking over the island, and then, depending on your itinerary, descend into the caldera towards Segara Anak and its natural hot springs. The summit itself is only one part of the experience. The lake sits at roughly 2,000 metres, surrounded by enormous volcanic walls, with Barujari rising from its eastern side. The name Segara Anak translates roughly as “child of the sea”, referring to the lake’s resemblance to the ocean.

For us, this is what makes Rinjani different from a straightforward mountain hike: you are constantly moving through a new landscape. One moment you are walking beneath a harsh sun across an exposed ridge; a few hours later you are sitting beside a crater lake, surrounded by volcanic rock. It is beautiful, but it is also a serious trek, and the better you understand it beforehand, the more you can actually enjoy it.

Everything you need to know about Rinjani

Mount Rinjani reaches 3,726 m, making it the second-highest volcano in Indonesia. The classic summit route starts from Sembalun, on the eastern side of the mountain. The first part crosses open grassland with very little shade, so the heat and sun can make the first day harder than expected. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the crater rim, where campsites sit at around 2,600 to 2,650 m. From there, the summit is another 1,000 m higher. The final ascent usually starts around 2 a.m. to reach the summit for sunrise. This is the hardest part of the trek, with loose volcanic rock and steep sections that can reach around 45 degrees. With every step, your feet can slide backwards on the volcanic scree, making the final climb much slower than expected. Rinjani is an **active volcano**, with the volcanic cone of Barujari sitting inside the crater lake. Its last significant eruption was in 2015. Trekking routes can close because of volcanic activity, weather or other safety concerns, so check the official Rinjani National Park information before your trek. Even during the dry season, conditions on the mountain can change quickly, with strong wind, cold temperatures, clouds or rain.

Segara Anak is one of the highlights of Rinjani. The crater lake sits at around **2,000 m**, surrounded by volcanic walls, with Mount Barujari rising from the lake. Reaching it means descending steeply from the crater rim, but the lake and its natural **hot springs** make the effort worthwhile. If you have the time, we recommend choosing a three or four-day trek. The two-day itinerary is possible but very intense: you climb to the crater rim on the first day, sleep for a few hours, wake around 2 a.m. for the summit and then descend on the second day. With three or four days, you can take your time, descend to Segara Anak, enjoy the hot springs and explore more of the mountain. We travelled with Rinjani Lombok Indonesia and chose their Deluxe package, which we found to be a good balance between comfort and adventure. They offer two-, three- and four-day itineraries, with longer routes including the summit, Segara Anak, the hot springs and, depending on the itinerary, the Senaru or Torean side.

Choose your guide carefully, it changes everything

One of the biggest lessons from our trek is that choosing your trekking company matters more than you might expect. Your guide controls the pace, knows the route, understands the weather, helps during the summit push and communicates with the porters. Your camping set-up, meals, water, toilet facilities and equipment can also vary depending on the package you choose. We went with Rinjani Lombok Indonesia and chose their Deluxe package, which for us was a great balance between comfort and adventure. Their packages include different levels of service, with options for two, three or four days. We particularly appreciated having a more comfortable camp set-up after a long day of walking. When you arrive at camp exhausted, cold and covered in volcanic dust, having a proper place to sit, eat and sleep makes a real difference.

The other important decision is how many days to choose. The classic two-day, one-night summit trek is the most intense option: you hike from Sembalun to the crater rim on the first day, sleep for a few hours, wake around 1:30 to 2 a.m., climb to the summit for sunrise and then descend on the second day. The second day can mean 10 to 13 hours of walking, which is a lot after the summit push. With three or four days, you can slow down, descend to Segara Anak, spend time at the lake and hot springs, and continue through the forest instead of doing everything in one long day. We would recommend three or four days if you have the time. It does not make Rinjani easy, but it gives you more time to enjoy the mountain rather than simply focusing on reaching the top.

The trek: What the days actually feel like

The first day starts in Sembalun, crossing open grassland with almost no shade. The walk to the crater rim takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on your pace and breaks, and the heat can make it feel much longer. The trail becomes steeper towards the end, but arriving at camp is a reward in itself. After eating, there is time to rest and watch the sunset over Lombok. We were unlucky with strong wind that night, which made sleeping difficult, especially with an early start ahead. Around 2 a.m., we woke up for the summit push. The temperature had dropped, the trail was completely dark and the first hours were a steady climb towards the top.

The final ascent is the hardest part of Rinjani. It takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace, and the combination of steep terrain and loose volcanic rock makes every step difficult. The ground constantly gives way beneath your feet, so you can take one step forward and slide back almost half a step. The slope becomes particularly steep towards the summit, and by this point you are tired, cold and running on very little sleep. But reaching the top just before sunrise makes the effort worth it. As the sky starts to brighten, you can see Lombok, the crater and Segara Anak lake stretching out below you. The climb may be over, but depending on your itinerary, you still have a long descent ahead.

What to bring: Our Rinjani packing list

The most important thing is not to overpack. Wear layers: a breathable T-shirt, long-sleeve layer, fleece or warm layer, and a windproof or waterproof jacket for the crater rim and summit. Bring good trekking shoes, trekking poles or a walking stick, sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap, warm gloves, a beanie and extra socks. The summit is cold, dark and windy, so warm layers are essential. A headlamp is also essential for the 2 a.m. summit push, although equipment depends on your package, so check what is included before leaving.

Also bring a small first-aid kit, blister plasters, tissues, wet wipes, a small towel, lip balm, a reusable water bottle and a power bank. Keep your phone and camera protected from dust and moisture. Do not rely on buying things on the mountain. Confirm what is included in your package, especially water, meals, tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilet facilities and trekking poles. With our Deluxe package, having these essentials organised made the trek much more comfortable. And do not forget earplugs if, like us, you end up camping in strong wind. Finally, carry all your rubbish back down with you.

Before you go: A few things we wish we had known

Check the mountain, not just your booking. Rinjani’s opening status can change because of volcanic activity, weather, fire risk or trail conditions. Check the official park information shortly before departure.

Train, but don’t overthink it. You do not need to be an experienced mountaineer, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours and climbing continuously. The two-day summit trek is particularly demanding, so some long uphill walks beforehand will help.

Take the weather seriously. Lombok can be hot at lower elevations, while the crater rim and summit can be very cold and windy. Bring layers and proper protection from the wind.

Don’t underestimate the lack of sleep. On a two-day trek, you may arrive at camp after several hours of walking, sleep for only a few hours, wake around 2 a.m. for the summit and then continue descending for the rest of the day.

Altitude is not the only challenge. At 3,726 m, altitude can affect some people, but the steep terrain, heat, cold, loose rock, elevation gain and lack of sleep all add to the difficulty. If you feel seriously unwell or unable to continue safely, tell your guide.

Choose your guide carefully. Your experience can vary greatly depending on the organisation, guide, porter team, food, equipment and pacing. We chose Rinjani Lombok Indonesia and their Deluxe service, which offered a good balance between comfort and adventure. Their packages range from the intense two-day summit trek to longer three- and four-day itineraries including the lake and hot springs.

Rinjani is not an easy mountain, and the climb will test you in ways you may not expect. The heat, steep terrain, loose volcanic rock, cold, wind and lack of sleep all add to the challenge. But somewhere above 3,700 metres, when the sky begins to change and Lombok appears below you, the exhaustion becomes almost irrelevant. That sunrise is the moment you came for.

If you have the choice, we would choose three or four days rather than two. The longer itinerary gives you time to enjoy Segara Anak, the hot springs and the different landscapes instead of rushing from one stage to the next. Rinjani is not simply about reaching the summit. It is about everything you cross to get there.

If you have the choice, we would choose three or four days rather than two. The two-day itinerary is perfect for someone with limited time who is determined to reach the summit, but it is intense enough that much of the mountain becomes something you endure rather than something you experience. With more time, Rinjani becomes slower and more complete: the summit, the lake, the hot springs, the crater walls, the forest and the quiet moments around camp. And perhaps that is the best way to approach Rinjani in the first place. Not as a race to 3,726 metres, but as a few days spent moving through one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary volcanic landscapes.

Rinjani is not simply about reaching the top. It is about everything you cross to get there.

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Kintamani, Bali: A guide to the island’s volcanic highlands

Julie RASCOL — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 01:41:09 +0000

Kintamani, Bali: A guide to the island’s volcanic highlands

Kintamani is one of Bali’s most distinctive regions, shaped by volcanic landscapes, cool mountain air and dramatic views over Mount Batur. Located in the island’s northeast, the area feels very different from Bali’s southern coast, with a landscape dominated by mountains, crater lakes, traditional villages and farmland.

While many visitors come to Kintamani for the famous sunrise over Mount Batur, there is much more to discover beyond the volcano itself. From Lake Batur and local villages to hot springs, coffee plantations and unique cultural traditions, Kintamani is a place to slow down and experience a quieter side of Bali.

Discover the volcanic landscapes of Kintamani

The landscape is what makes Kintamani so distinctive. The region stretches around the vast caldera of Mount Batur, with Mount Batur and Lake Batur at its centre. But the volcano is only one part of the story. The highlands are shaped by fertile volcanic soil, cooler temperatures and a patchwork of farms growing coffee, citrus fruits, vegetables and spices. As you drive through the region, the landscape gradually shifts from busy viewpoints to small villages, plantations and winding roads overlooking the caldera.

Lake Batur is at the heart of this landscape and an important part of local life. Along its shores, you can still see small fishing boats and local fishermen going about their day, a reminder that the lake is more than a viewpoint for visitors. On the eastern shore lies Trunyan, a traditional Bali Aga village that has preserved customs and traditions distinct from those found in many other parts of Bali. The village is particularly known for its mepasah burial tradition, where certain deceased villagers are placed above ground beneath bamboo structures rather than being cremated or buried. The cemetery, located across the lake and reached by boat, remains a sacred and active burial site, so visits should be approached respectfully and with a local guide. Water is also central to the spiritual life of the region, reflected in Pura Ulun Danu Batur, one of Bali’s most significant temples. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and water, the temple reflects the importance of water in both the island’s agricultural and spiritual life.

Experience sunrise over Mount Batur

Watching the sunrise from Mount Batur is one of Kintamani’s most popular experiences. At 1,717 metres, the volcano rises from the centre of the vast Batur caldera, with Lake Batur and the surrounding mountains stretching out below. The hike usually begins during the night so that hikers can reach the summit before dawn, with the first light slowly revealing Mount Abang, Lake Batur and, on clear mornings, Mount Agung in the distance.

If hiking through the night is not for you, there are other ways to experience sunrise around Mount Batur. Sunrise jeep tours take you up the volcanic slopes before dawn, offering the chance to watch the landscape change without doing the full hike. For a slower start, you can also choose one of the cafés and viewpoints around the caldera, settle in with a coffee and watch the morning light move across the volcano and lake. Whichever option you choose, arriving early is worthwhile, as clouds and mist often gather around the mountains later in the day.

Where to go in Kintamani

Kintamani has become increasingly interesting for travellers who want to spend more time in the highlands rather than simply stop for a photograph. For a stay surrounded by the volcanic landscape, Toteme Glamping & Hot Springs offers mountain views and hot spring pools, creating an opportunity to experience the cooler side of Bali at a slower pace. Another option is Black Lava Camp Kintamani, where you can stay close to the volcanic landscape and wake up to views of Mount Batur.

For wellness, Amme Private Wellness Sanctuary can be incorporated into a more relaxed Kintamani itinerary, while the area’s growing café scene makes it easy to combine a mountain drive with a long coffee stop. Akasa is one of the best-known addresses along the caldera road, while Pahdi Specialty Coffee and Montana Del Cafe are other options for enjoying coffee and food while taking in the volcanic panorama.

Discover Kintamani’s coffee culture

Kintamani is one of Bali’s best-known coffee-growing regions, where volcanic soil, higher elevation and cooler mountain temperatures create ideal conditions for Arabica coffee. Coffee is part of a much wider agricultural landscape here, with orange and lemon trees, spices, vegetables and other crops growing alongside the coffee plants. The result is a diverse ecosystem that reflects the traditional farming practices of the highlands.

For a closer look at this side of Kintamani, Arca Coffee offers an experience that goes well beyond simply ordering a cup of coffee. Set within a 2.5-hectare plantation, the farm gives visitors the opportunity to discover where the coffee comes from, meet the people behind it and learn about everything from cultivation and harvesting to processing, roasting and brewing. The experience also highlights the wider plantation, where coffee grows alongside vanilla, ginger, turmeric, citrus and other local crops.

When is the best time to visit Kintamani & how to get there?

Kintamani can be visited throughout the year, but the dry season generally offers more favourable conditions for hiking and mountain views. April to October tends to bring clearer conditions, although weather in the highlands can change quickly. If seeing Mount Batur and Lake Batur is your priority, arriving early is usually worthwhile. The high altitude also means Kintamani is significantly cooler than coastal Bali, especially before sunrise and after sunset, so a light jacket is something you will be glad to have.

Kintamani is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Ubud, depending on traffic and your exact destination, while the journey from Canggu, Seminyak or Uluwatu takes considerably longer. A private driver is one of the easiest ways to explore the area, particularly if you want to combine several stops around the caldera. Experienced scooter riders can also travel independently, but the winding mountain roads and changing weather are worth keeping in mind.

Kintamani is a place to experience rather than simply pass through. Its volcanic landscapes, lake, villages and agricultural traditions create a side of Bali that feels worlds away from the beaches and busy streets of the south.

Come for the sunrise, stay for the mountain air, stop for coffee, explore the lake, or simply take the long way around the caldera. Kintamani rewards curiosity, and the further you look beyond the famous Mount Batur view, the more you begin to understand why this highland region is worth a place on your Bali itinerary.

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Toteme Glamping: A Mountain Escape in Kintamani

Julie RASCOL — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 03:26:23 +0000

Toteme Glamping: A Mountain Escape in Kintamani

There is a different pace to Bali in the mountains. As the roads climb north from Ubud, the air becomes cooler, the landscape opens onto volcanic slopes and the familiar sounds of the coast slowly disappear. In Kintamani, Mount Batur rises above Lake Batur, surrounded by a vast volcanic caldera and small villages scattered across the highlands.

It is here, among the mountains, that Toteme Glamping offers a quieter way to experience this part of the island. Set beneath Mount Batur, the property brings together canvas tents, a natural hot spring, a garden restaurant and wide mountain views. Rather than simply being a place to spend the night, Toteme makes a good base for discovering Kintamani at a slower pace, with mornings in the mountains, afternoons in warm water and evenings spent around the fire.

Kintamani: Bali at a different altitude

Kintamani feels remarkably different from the southern part of Bali. Sitting high above the rest of the island, the region is shaped by the volcanic landscape of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. The cooler temperatures are part of its appeal: mornings can be crisp, clouds often gather around the mountains and evenings call for a light jacket rather than the usual Bali heat. The landscape changes with the weather, too, sometimes revealing the entire caldera and sometimes disappearing into a layer of mist.

Mount Batur is naturally at the centre of the experience. The volcano rises to 1,717 metres and is one of Bali’s best-known sunrise hikes, with the traditional trek beginning in the early hours of the morning. For those who would rather stay off the trail, Jeep excursions offer another way to explore the volcanic landscape, including the black lava fields and viewpoints around the mountain.

Beyond Mount Batur, there is plenty of reason to spend more than a few hours in the area. Lake Batur sits inside the caldera, with small roads winding down towards its shores and villages around the water. The geothermal activity of the region also makes hot springs a natural part of a Kintamani itinerary, particularly after a morning spent exploring. You can combine a sunrise experience or Jeep ride with a soak in warm volcanic water, or simply spend the day moving between the lake, mountain viewpoints and local villages.

Toteme Glamping: sleeping beneath Mount Batur

Set in Batur Tengah, Toteme is made up of a small collection of tents surrounded by gardens, with Mount Batur visible from the property. The feeling is closer to a private mountain retreat than a traditional hotel. There are 25 tents in total, with two accommodation categories: Standard and Deluxe. Both are designed around the idea of sleeping close to nature while keeping the comforts of a proper stay.

The Standard tents have king-size beds, air conditioning, a private terrace and access to shared bathrooms on the property. The Deluxe tents add a private bathroom, a little more space and a private terrace facing the volcano. Towels, slippers, a hairdryer, minibar and safe are provided, while Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. The best part, however, is the setting: opening the tent in the morning to mountain air and a view of Batur makes the location feel very far removed from the busier side of Bali.

The heart of Toteme is its thermal spring. A large natural hot spring pool sits at the centre of the property, heated by geothermal activity rather than a conventional boiler, with temperatures maintained at around 40°C. For guests staying overnight, access to the spring is included, making it easy to slip into the water throughout the day. In the morning, the contrast between the cool mountain air and warm water is particularly beautiful; later in the afternoon, the pool becomes a place to slow down as the light changes across Mount Batur.

More than a stay: what to do at Toteme

Toteme is designed so that you do not necessarily need to leave the property all day. The restaurant sits beneath a large mango tree and serves a mix of European and Indonesian dishes, with the open-sided setting keeping the surrounding landscape part of the experience. It is open from morning through evening, so breakfast can follow an early Batur excursion, while dinner gives the day a much slower ending.

Treatments are also available in the comfort of your tent, with Balinese therapists bringing the spa experience directly to you. For something more active, the team can also help arrange experiences around Kintamani, including the Mount Batur sunrise experience. One of the particularly convenient details is that, for the sunrise trek, the Jeep can pick guests up directly from the property rather than requiring a separate transfer to a meeting point.

The rest of the day can be deliberately unplanned. Walk through the gardens, spend time on the terrace, return to the thermal pool or simply watch the mountain change as the clouds move across the caldera. This is perhaps what makes Toteme particularly suited to Kintamani: the property gives you enough to do without creating a schedule around it.

Getting there from Ubud

Kintamani makes a natural addition to a Bali itinerary, particularly if you are already staying in Ubud. The journey takes you from the greener landscapes around Ubud into the cooler highlands of Bangli, with the roads becoming increasingly mountainous as you approach the Batur caldera. Travel time depends on your exact starting point and traffic conditions, so it is better to allow some flexibility rather than relying on a precise journey time.

A private driver is the easiest option if you are travelling with luggage or want to stop along the way. The journey can also be turned into part of the day, with possible stops around Tegallalang or Tirta Empul before continuing north towards Kintamani. If you are travelling by scooter, the route is accessible, although the mountain roads, bends and cooler weather are worth taking into account.

Once at Toteme, the property can help arrange experiences around Mount Batur, including its sunrise Jeep experience. For guests planning the traditional sunrise hike, the property describes itself as particularly close to the trail and offers pickup directly from the tent, making an early start slightly easier.

Kintamani is a reminder that Bali is not only about beaches, beach clubs and tropical temperatures. Up here, the landscape is volcanic, the mornings are cool and the rhythm of the day is shaped more by the mountain than by the ocean. You can spend the morning exploring Batur, the afternoon in warm geothermal water and the evening watching the last light settle over the caldera.

Toteme fits naturally into that landscape. It offers a comfortable place to stay without taking away from the reason to come to Kintamani in the first place: the mountain, the spring, the lake and the feeling of being somewhere slightly removed from the rest of the island. For a couple of nights between Ubud and your next destination, it is an opportunity to slow down and experience a quieter, cooler side of Bali.

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Tegallalang Rice Terraces: What to know before you visit

Julie RASCOL — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 01:08:25 +0000

Tegallalang Rice Terraces: what to know before you visit

Located just north of Ubud, Tegallalang is one of Bali’s most recognisable landscapes, known for its layered rice terraces carved into the hillsides. The area has become increasingly popular over the years, with resorts, restaurants, swings and photo spots attracting visitors from all over the island. Yet beyond the more developed tourist areas, Tegallalang remains a working agricultural landscape, with local farmers still cultivating the rice fields and small warungs and shops scattered along the paths.

There are essentially two ways to experience Tegallalang. You can stay on the more tourist-oriented side, enjoying the resorts, restaurants and attractions such as Cretya, or head down into the rice terraces and explore them on foot. The second option offers a quieter and more local experience, allowing you to walk between the fields, discover small paths and see the traditional side of the area. The terraces are also part of Bali’s wider subak irrigation system, a centuries-old way of managing water between rice fields that remains an important part of the island’s cultural landscape today.

Resorts, restaurants & the tourist side

The most developed part of Tegallalang is home to a number of beautiful resorts, restaurants and cafés overlooking the rice fields. This is where you will find some of the area’s most photogenic spots, with infinity pools, tropical gardens and terraces designed around the surrounding landscape. For those looking for a more comfortable way to enjoy the scenery, spending a few hours at one of these places can be a great alternative to walking through the rice fields.

This is also where you will find some of Tegallalang’s most famous tourist attractions, including Cretya Ubud. With its large pools, rice terrace views, restaurants and highly photographed setting, Cretya is very much on the tourist side of Tegallalang. It can be a fun experience if you are looking for pools, music and a more polished atmosphere, but it is not the only way to experience the rice terraces.

Discover Tegallalang beyond the tourist spots

If your main reason for visiting Tegallalang is to see the rice terraces themselves, you do not need to book a restaurant, visit a resort or pay for one of the famous attractions. The rice fields can be explored on foot through several different access points around the valley. The main Ceking entrance is located along Jalan Raya Tegallalang, with parking nearby, and other smaller entrances lead into different sections of the terraces. There is no single entrance covering the entire area, so the price can vary depending on where you enter. The main entrance is currently around IDR 50,000 per person. It is worth carrying cash in small denominations, as some local paths and crossings may also have small additional contributions.

Once inside, the best thing to do is simply walk. From the entrance, paths lead down into the valley and between the different levels of the rice terraces. You can take your time, stop for photographs and follow the smaller paths rather than sticking to the busiest viewpoints. Along the way, you will find local warungs, small shops and places to stop for a drink or a snack. The paths can be narrow, steep and slippery after rain, so comfortable shoes with good grip are recommended. Allow around two to three hours if you want to explore at a relaxed pace rather than simply stopping for a quick photo.

Swings, local experiences & small warungs

Like many popular places in Bali, Tegallalang also offers plenty of activities aimed at visitors. You will find swings overlooking the rice terraces, photo spots and other small attractions along the paths. Some locals may also offer traditional outfits, hats or baskets that you can carry for photographs, or invite you to take pictures with them. These experiences are generally informal, and a small tip may be requested in exchange for photos.

As you continue walking, you will also find small local shops and warungs along the terraces. These are good places to stop for a fresh coconut, fruit, water or a simple snack while taking a break from walking. You may also come across small spots offering traditional Balinese coffee tastings, where you can try locally produced coffee and learn a little more about how it is made. While these experiences are somewhat tourist-oriented, they can be a nice addition to your visit if you are curious about local coffee. Bring some cash with you, as smaller local stalls may not accept cards.

When to visit & what to expect

Tegallalang is one of those places where timing can make a noticeable difference. The area is generally quieter early in the morning, before the main crowds arrive, and the softer morning light is also particularly beautiful over the rice terraces. If you want to walk around and take photographs without feeling surrounded by other visitors, arriving early is worth it. The weather can also become hotter as the day goes on, which makes walking through the terraces more tiring.

Keep in mind that the rice terraces are a working agricultural landscape rather than a perfectly maintained park. Some paths can be uneven, steep or muddy depending on the weather, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The exact appearance of the terraces also changes throughout the year depending on the planting and harvesting cycles. Even if you have already seen photos of Tegallalang, the landscape can look quite different when you visit.

Tegallalang is well worth adding to your Bali itinerary, especially if you take the time to explore beyond the main tourist attractions. The combination of dramatic rice terraces, local warungs and everyday life makes the area more interesting once you step away from the busiest spots.

For the best experience, come early in the morning when the light is softer and the temperatures are cooler, then take your time walking through the terraces. Whether you choose to spend a few hours at one of the area’s resorts or simply follow the paths through the rice fields, Tegallalang is a beautiful part of Bali to experience at your own pace.

Read more: ’10 Things to do in Ubud’

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Bali with kids: The family guide

Julie RASCOL — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 02:35:22 +0000

Bali with kids: The Family Guide

Bali with children can sound complicated at first. Long drives, unfamiliar food, tropical heat and the question every parent eventually asks: will they actually enjoy it?

The answer is yes. Bali is surprisingly easy with kids once you know where to go. Beyond the beaches and temples, the island is full of relaxed cafés with playgrounds, creative spaces, family pools, kids clubs and activities that adults genuinely enjoy too.

Here are a few of our favourite places to make travelling around Bali with children feel a little easier, and a lot more fun.

WHERE TO EAT WITH KIDS

Canggu and Seminyak have perhaps the widest choice of family-friendly cafés and restaurants. Milk & Madu is a reliable favourite for breakfast and lunch, with a menu that works well for both adults and children, while Sea Circus brings a more colourful, playful atmosphere. Around Berawa and Batu Bolong, places such as Mano Beach House are ideal when you want to combine lunch with a little beach time, while Tiny Healthy Family Cafe is a good option for simple, wholesome meals. The general atmosphere is relaxed enough that children do not need to sit still for an entire meal.

Ubud offers a different kind of family experience, with restaurants surrounded by greenery and plenty of places where a meal can become part of a slower day. Mana Earthly is a lovely choice for families looking for a relaxed setting and nourishing food, while Good Day is an easy stop for breakfast, lunch or a casual break. After a morning exploring the rice fields, visiting a temple or simply wandering through the centre, these kinds of places make it easy to slow down and recharge without having to plan a formal family outing.

For a slower family day, Sanur is one of the easiest areas to navigate, with a calmer beach and plenty of casual places to eat. Byrd House combines food with a kids’ splash area, while Splash Bistro offers a similarly relaxed setting. In Ubud, Mana Earthly and Good Day are good options for a family-friendly meal, with relaxed settings that make it easy to take a break between exploring the town and surrounding rice fields.

WHERE KIDS CAN ACTUALLY PLAY

In Uluwatu, Pangolin is one of the best dedicated play spaces for children, with a large indoor playground designed for different ages, climbing areas, sensory play and creative activities. It is particularly useful on very hot or rainy days, when spending hours outside is not always practical. With plenty of space to move, explore and play, it can easily become an activity in itself rather than just a quick stop between outings.

Around Canggu, Berawa and Seminyak, there are several options for children who need a proper break from sightseeing. Parklife combines play, food and outdoor space, while Mookiland offers a mix of semi-indoor and outdoor play, including water activities. Mai Main is another standout, with extensive indoor and outdoor play areas, a pool, animal feeding and activities for different ages. Smiley Playhouse and Zoneout are other options to consider depending on your children’s age and the area you are staying in.

Ubud has a smaller but increasingly interesting selection. Bali Family Hangout is a good option when children need some time to play between exploring the rice fields, temples and surrounding villages, while Titi Batu is more of an all-day family club, with a children’s playground, kids’ room, family pool and plenty of space to move around. PLAYFORT Ubud is another newer indoor option, particularly useful when you want somewhere air-conditioned for a few hours.

Sanur is another family-friendly base, especially for younger children. Kids SoHo Playground combines an indoor play space with a café and learning activities, while Clip ’n Climb Bali offers something different for children aged four and above, with climbing walls, challenges and interactive climbing games. With its slower pace, walkable beachfront and calmer atmosphere, Sanur makes it easy to alternate between playtime, lunch and the beach without planning every hour of the day.

HOTELS, KIDS CLUBS & POOL DAYS

For families who want a hotel where children can be entertained without leaving the property, Kuta and Nusa Dua are particularly convenient. The Bali Dynasty Resort has a kids’ club, children’s water areas and a large waterslide, while The Westin Resort Nusa Dua offers the Westin Family Kids Club, several pools and a children’s pool with a waterslide. These resorts are a good choice when the holiday itself is meant to include plenty of downtime.

Around Seminyak and the south-west coast, beach clubs can work almost like an extension of the hotel pool. KU DE TA, Mano Beach House and Le Bajo allow families to spend several hours between swimming, eating and relaxing rather than moving from one attraction to another. The important thing is to check the current children’s access and pool policy before going, as these can vary by day, age and venue.

Sanur and Ubud offer a different kind of family stay, with a slower pace and plenty of space to enjoy the hotel itself. In Sanur, Prime Plaza Suites is particularly well suited to families, with its Camp Splash kids’ club, pools, playground and waterslide, while Hyatt Regency Bali combines a dedicated kids’ club with several pools and direct beach access. In Ubud, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan and Padma Resort Ubud offer a more immersive experience surrounded by jungle and rice fields, with kids’ clubs and activities that allow children to enjoy the landscape as much as the pool.

THINGS TO DO TOGETHER

For a classic Bali family day, start with the water. Waterbom Bali is the obvious choice for older children who love slides and swimming, while Bali Safari & Marine Park and Bali Bird Park offer a different kind of day surrounded by animals and nature. Younger children may prefer a quieter morning at the beach, while older kids can add activities such as surfing or water sports around the south coast.

Bali is also a good place to introduce children to its creative and cultural side without turning it into a history lesson. Family-friendly cooking classes are a natural way to discover Balinese food, while batik, jewellery, painting and other craft workshops give children something tangible to make. Chocolate-making workshops are another fun option, while in Ubud especially, creative activities can be a welcome alternative to another temple visit, while still giving them a sense of the island’s traditions.

For something more active, there are plenty of options beyond the beach. Older children can try surfing, white-water rafting on the Ayung River, archery or the Bali Treetop Adventure Park, while horse riding and snorkelling offer a slower way to explore the island. For younger children, activities such as turtle releases, farm visits and gentle nature experiences can be just as memorable. The best approach is not to fill every day with activities, but to choose one main experience and leave enough time afterwards for a swim, an ice cream or simply doing nothing. That is often when Bali feels most enjoyable for the whole family.

Plan less than you think you need to. One beach, one lunch and one activity can already make a very full day in Bali.

Start early. The morning is cooler, beaches are quieter and children tend to have more energy.

Keep one indoor option in reserve for rain or very hot afternoons. Playgrounds such as Pangolin, Kids SoHo and Mookiland make this surprisingly easy. And finally, do not try to see the whole island in one trip. Bali is at its best when there is enough time for the children to swim, nap, eat ice cream and simply enjoy being somewhere new.

That is part of the holiday too.

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Bukit Lawang, Sumatra: Into the jungle to meet the Orangutans

Julie RASCOL — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 05:06:53 +0000

Bukit Lawang, Sumatra: Into the jungle to meet the Orangutans

Sumatra is one of those places that feels wonderfully far away from the Indonesia most travellers know. The island is vast, wild and incredibly diverse, with volcanoes rising above tropical forests, enormous lakes surrounded by mountains, remote islands, traditional villages and some of the richest wildlife habitats in Southeast Asia. From the Batak communities around Lake Toba to the forests of North Sumatra, travelling through the island feels less like ticking off destinations and more like slowly discovering a completely different side of Indonesia.

In the north of the island, there is a small riverside village that has become one of the most famous gateways to the Sumatran rainforest: Bukit Lawang. Sitting on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, Bukit Lawang is where you come to trade roads for jungle trails and spend hours walking beneath the canopy in search of one of the world’s most fascinating animals: the Sumatran orangutan. But the experience goes far beyond seeing orangutans. Between jungle trekking, river tubing, waterfalls, local handicrafts and nights spent beneath the sounds of the rainforest, Bukit Lawang is a place where the jungle becomes the centre of the journey.

Sumatra: one of Indonesia's last great wildernesses

Sumatra is Indonesia’s sixth-largest island and one of the most biologically important regions in the entire country. Running along much of the western side of the island is the Bukit Barisan mountain range, a volcanic spine that shapes Sumatra’s landscapes. The result is an extraordinary variety of environments, from lowland tropical rainforest and mangroves to mountain forests, volcanic lakes and remote coastal areas. North Sumatra alone offers an incredible concentration of experiences, from Medan and the traditional Batak lands around Lake Toba to the wild forests surrounding Gunung Leuser.

What makes Sumatra particularly remarkable, however, is what lives inside these forests. The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, a UNESCO World Heritage site made up of Gunung Leuser, Kerinci Seblat and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Parks, covers more than 2.59 million hectares. UNESCO estimates that the protected area contains around 10,000 plant species, more than 200 mammal species and approximately 580 bird species. Among them are some of the most endangered animals in Indonesia, including the Sumatran orangutan, Sumatran tiger, Sumatran rhinoceros and Sumatran elephant.

Bukit Lawang: the gateway to Gunung Leuser

Bukit Lawang is a small village built along the Bohorok River, approximately 90 kilometres northwest of Medan. Its location is what makes it so special: the village sits right at the entrance to the Gunung Leuser National Park, meaning that the transition from everyday life to rainforest happens incredibly quickly. Guesthouses, cafés and small local shops line the river, while just beyond the village the landscape becomes steep, muddy and completely green. From here, the only way deeper into the forest is on foot.

The easiest way to reach Bukit Lawang is by road from Medan, with the journey taking around three to four hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Public buses are available from the Pinang Baris area, while private cars and shared transfers are a more comfortable option, especially if you are travelling with luggage or arriving from Kualanamu International Airport. As you leave Medan behind, the busy city roads gradually give way to plantations, farmland and small villages, until the landscape becomes increasingly green. Eventually, you arrive in Bukit Lawang, a small jungle village along the Bohorok River where the rainforest begins just beyond the houses.

Orangutans and the incredible Gunung Leuser rainforest

The real magic of Bukit Lawang begins when you enter the Gunung Leuser National Park, one of Southeast Asia’s most important rainforest landscapes. Covering around 1.09 million hectares, the park is part of the UNESCO-listed Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra and protects an extraordinary ecosystem home to Sumatran orangutans, gibbons, macaques, elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, slow lorises and hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and insects. The Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) is perhaps its most iconic resident. Endemic to the island and critically endangered, these intelligent great apes spend much of their lives high in the canopy, moving slowly between trees, feeding on fruit and leaves and building nests where they sleep. Watching one appear between the branches, completely surrounded by rainforest, is one of those wildlife encounters that stays with you long after leaving Sumatra.

But the orangutans are only one part of what makes this forest so extraordinary. As you walk deeper into Gunung Leuser, you begin to notice the smaller details: the call of a gibbon somewhere in the distance, macaques moving through the canopy, hornbills flying above the trees or freshly eaten fruit scattered on the forest floor. The wider ecosystem is also home to some of Indonesia’s most endangered animals, including the Sumatran tiger, Sumatran rhinoceros and Sumatran elephant, although encountering these species in the wild is extremely rare and should never be expected on a short trek. Instead, experienced guides may sometimes spot tracks, footprints or other signs of their presence. This is what makes the experience feel so different from a traditional wildlife attraction: you are entering a genuinely wild ecosystem where animals are free to move wherever they choose.

Exploring the Sumatran rainforest with Sumatra Orangutan Explore

For our jungle experience, we chose Sumatra Orangutan Explore, a local trekking company based in Bukit Lawang that focuses on responsible wildlife encounters, rainforest conservation and community-based tourism. There are several ways to experience the rainforest, from a 3-hour ethical trek followed by tubing back to the village, to full one-day and multi-day expeditions lasting up to five days. The one-day trek takes around 6–7 hours of walking, while longer trips take you progressively deeper into the forest, with nights spent in simple jungle camps, river crossings, swimming, waterfalls, tubing and, on some itineraries, night walks. The longer you stay, the less the experience feels like a simple excursion and the more you become immersed in the rhythm of the rainforest.

Of course, the big question is whether you will actually see an orangutan. Wildlife can never truly be guaranteed in a natural environment, but Sumatra Orangutan Explore states that its three-hour trek has a 98% chance of observing semi-wild orangutans that have been rehabilitated into the forest. The idea is not to make the orangutans come to you, but to quietly observe them behaving naturally in their own environment.

Spending several days in the jungle takes the experience to another level. Beyond the orangutans themselves, this is what makes the experience so memorable: waking up surrounded by rainforest, following its trails for several days and experiencing Gunung Leuser not as a backdrop, but as a living ecosystem.

What to do in Bukit Lawang beyond orangutan trekking

Although the orangutans are undoubtedly the main reason people travel to Bukit Lawang, there is much more to do here than simply join a jungle trek. The Bohorok River is at the heart of the village and offers one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the landscape: tubing and rafting. After spending hours walking through the humid rainforest, floating downstream through the river is the perfect contrast. The surrounding jungle, rocks and fast-moving sections of water turn the journey back to the village into an adventure of its own. Indonesia’s official tourism board also highlights rafting as one of the area’s main activities.

Bukit Lawang is also a great place to slow down and discover local crafts. If you want something more creative than another day of hiking, you can join workshops in wood carving, bamboo weaving or coconut-shell carving. Wood carving is particularly interesting because local artisans can work with reclaimed wood collected from rivers and rice fields around the area, turning it into handmade souvenirs rather than using newly cut timber. Depending on the workshop, you can spend a few hours or even several days learning how to carve your own piece, from small animals to signs and decorative objects.

There are also opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside, visit caves, discover local villages and learn more about everyday life around Bukit Lawang. Cooking classes, village experiences and visits to small local farms can offer a different perspective on the region. The idea is not simply to use Bukit Lawang as a base for the jungle, but to understand the community that has developed alongside it.

Bukit Lawang is much more than an orangutan destination. It is a place where you can experience one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary rainforests while discovering the community that has grown around it. You can spend the morning walking through the jungle, the afternoon floating down the Bohorok River, learning traditional wood carving or swimming beneath a waterfall, before falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest. But Sumatra has another side to discover, one that takes you far beyond the jungle and deep into the traditions of the people who have called this island home for generations.

If the orangutans of Gunung Leuser offer a glimpse into the wild heart of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands offer a glimpse into its cultural soul. Far off the western coast of the island, on remote Siberut Island, the Mentawai people have preserved traditions deeply connected to the forest, rivers and land. After exploring Sumatra’s wilderness in Bukit Lawang, travelling to Siberut means continuing the journey in a completely different way: leaving the jungle trails behind to spend several days living alongside the Mentawai people, sharing their daily life, learning from their traditions and experiencing a side of Sumatra that few travellers ever get to see.

The article Bukit Lawang, Sumatra: Into the jungle to meet the Orangutans appeared first on Stay In.

Exploring Sumatra: Jungle, islands and ancient cultures

Julie RASCOL — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 01:02:33 +0000

Exploring Sumatra: Jungle, islands and ancient cultures

Far from Bali, across the Java Sea and towards the western edge of Indonesia, lies an island that feels like another side of the country. Sumatra is huge. The landscapes change constantly as you travel across the island, from tropical rainforest and volcanic mountains to enormous lakes, small villages, remote islands and some of the wildest parts of Indonesia.

It is also one of the places where you can still experience cultures that feel very different from Bali. From the Minangkabau villages of West Sumatra to the Batak communities around Lake Toba and the Mentawai people living deep in the forests of Siberut, travelling here is as much about meeting people as it is about exploring the landscape.

And then there is the jungle. Sumatra is one of the few places in the world where you can walk through rainforest and see wild orangutans moving through the trees. It is not an easy island to explore quickly. Distances are long, roads can be slow and some of the most interesting places take time to reach. But that is also what makes travelling through Sumatra feel so different.

Sumatra: A different side of Indonesia

Sumatra is huge. At around 473,000 square kilometres, it stretches for roughly 1,700 kilometres from north to south, crossing the Equator. The island is shaped by the Bukit Barisan mountains, with volcanoes, crater lakes, rainforest and highland valleys running through its centre. From one region to another, the landscape can completely change.

And getting there is already part of the adventure. From Bali, Padang is around 1,870 kilometres away as the crow flies, usually requiring a stopover. Once on the island, distances are long and some of the best places take time to reach. Roads give way to boats, jungle paths and mountain roads, making Sumatra feel much further from Bali than the distance on a map suggests.

What makes Sumatra even more interesting is how different its cultures are. Islam is the majority religion, while Christianity is particularly important in parts of North Sumatra. West Sumatra is home to the Minangkabau, the Mentawai have their own Indigenous culture, and the Batak people have their own traditions around Lake Toba. Travel across the island and the architecture, food, languages and traditions change with the landscape.

The Mentawai Islands

Around 150 kilometres off the western coast of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands sit in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago has four main islands: Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai and South Pagai, surrounded by dozens of smaller islands. The islands are known around the world for their surf. Sipora and the Pagai Islands are home to some of Indonesia’s most famous waves, while the coastline is made up of jungle, beaches and small villages. But the Mentawais are much more than a surf destination.

The Mentawais are mainly about nature, surf and getting away from everything. You can spend days surfing, exploring beaches by boat, walking through the jungle, fishing, snorkelling or visiting small coastal communities. For a more comfortable stay, La Isla Mentawai offers private boutique villas surrounded by jungle and designed around a more contemporary, natural style. It combines the remote island setting with a level of comfort that is quite different from the traditional surf camps found across the Mentawais.

Siberut is the largest of the Mentawai Islands and the best place to experience Mentawai culture. We travelled with Mentawai Tribe, staying with a family in a traditional uma, eating together, fishing, walking through the forest, learning about traditional hunting and meeting a Sikerei, the traditional shaman. The Mentawai have a deep connection with the forest, which provides food, medicine and materials, while their traditional belief system, Arat Sabulungan, is based on a balance between people, nature and the spiritual world. Their traditional tattoos, known as titi, are also closely connected to identity and community.

Village, people & culture

One of the best reasons to travel through Sumatra is to get away from the main cities. In West Sumatra, the Minangkabau culture is everywhere. The traditional houses, known as rumah gadang, are instantly recognisable with their dramatic curved roofs. Small villages and green valleys are surrounded by rice fields, mountains and forests. Places around Bukittinggi , Pariangan and the Harau Valley are a good starting point for exploring this part of the island.

The Minangkabau have one of the world’s largest matrilineal societies, where family descent and inheritance traditionally follow the mother’s line. Their culture is also deeply connected to Islam, with traditions and everyday life shaped by both. Further south, around Kerinci, the landscape becomes more mountainous, with tea plantations, forests and small villages set between the mountains. It is another part of Sumatra where you can slow down and explore the landscape by road, on foot or through the villages.

Sumatra is full of these smaller places where the landscape and culture are still closely connected. Travelling between villages, rice fields, forests and mountain valleys gives you a different perspective of the island, away from the main tourist routes.

Into the jungle

Then there is the reason many people come to Sumatra in the first place: the jungle. In the north, Bukit Lawang sits on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the most important rainforest areas in Southeast Asia. This is one of the few places where you can trek through the forest and encounter wild Sumatran orangutans. You never know exactly what you will see. Some days the forest is quiet, with only insects, birds and the sound of the river. Other days, an orangutan appears high in the canopy and moves through the trees above you.

The experience is very different from seeing animals in a sanctuary or zoo. You are walking through their environment, and encounters are completely unpredictable. For a deeper jungle experience, you can spend several days trekking with a local guide, sleeping in the rainforest and exploring further away from the village. The area is also home to other wildlife, including Thomas leaf monkeys, gibbons, macaques and, deeper in the park, elephants and the extremely rare Sumatran tiger.

Volcanoes & lakes

Sumatra is also a place for people who love mountains. The island follows the volcanic Ring of Fire, with volcanoes running along the Bukit Barisan range. Around Berastagi, you can climb Mount Sibayak, an accessible volcano surrounded by highland landscapes and geothermal activity. Further south, Mount Kerinci is the highest volcano in Indonesia and one of the most impressive places for serious trekkers.

For something quieter, Lake Maninjau is a volcanic lake surrounded by green mountains and small villages in West Sumatra. Not far from Bukittinggi, it is a place to drive around the lake, stop in the villages and take in the landscape. Further south, Lake Kerinci sits between mountains and forests, while Lake Ranau, on the border of South Sumatra and Lampung, offers another landscape of volcanic mountains and water.

And then there is Lake Toba. At more than 1,100 square kilometres, the lake is enormous. Mountains rise around the water and Samosir Island sits in the middle, creating a landscape that feels almost impossible to associate with Indonesia’s more familiar tropical coastlines. You can spend days exploring the lake, hiking, swimming, visiting Batak villages or simply following the roads around Samosir. .

Sumatra is not the easiest part of Indonesia to explore. The distances are big, transport can take longer than expected, and some places require boats, long drives or several different forms of transport. But that is exactly why it feels different. You can travel from a city to a traditional village, from a volcanic lake to a jungle where orangutans still live, and then cross the ocean to an island where people continue traditions that have existed for generations.

For us, that is the real reason to explore Sumatra. It is not one destination, but a collection of landscapes, cultures and experiences that feel completely different from Bali, and sometimes completely different from one another. Some places stay with you because they are beautiful. Others stay with you because of the people you met there. Sumatra is one of those places.

The article Exploring Sumatra: Jungle, islands and ancient cultures appeared first on Stay In.

Meeting the Mentawai Tribe on Siberut Island

Julie RASCOL — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 01:37:43 +0000

Meeting the Mentawai Tribe on Siberut Island

Far from the busy streets of Sumatra, across the ocean, lies a group of islands where life moves at a very different pace.

The Mentawai Islands are one of those places that feel far away from the moment you leave the mainland. There are no big resorts, no busy roads and very little connection with the outside world once you head deep into the jungle. But the real reason to come here is not only the landscape. It is the people.

On Siberut Island, you can spend several days living alongside the Mentawai people, sleeping in their traditional house, eating together, walking through the forest and learning about a way of life that has been passed down for generations. It is not the kind of trip where you simply arrive, take a few photos and leave. You become part of everyday life for a few days.

The Mentawai Islands: a remote part of Indonesia

The Mentawai Islands are an archipelago off the western coast of Sumatra, in West Sumatra province. The group includes more than 90 islands, although only a few of them are large and inhabited. The four main islands are Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai and South Pagai.

Each island has its own character. Sipora is home to the administrative capital of the Mentawai Islands, Tua Pejat, while the Pagai Islands are known for their beaches, small communities and surf spots.

But Siberut is the island to know if you are coming to discover Mentawai culture. It is the largest island in the archipelago and is covered by large areas of rainforest. It is also where traditional Mentawai culture remains particularly strong, including the presence of the Sikerei, the traditional shamans of the community.

Siberut is also famous for its incredible biodiversity. The island is home to several animals found nowhere else in the world, including endemic species of monkeys and gibbons. The deeper you travel into the island, the more the landscape changes. Roads disappear. Rivers become the main way of getting around. Houses become scattered between the forest and small gardens.

And this is where the journey really begins.

How to get to the Mentawai Tribe

Getting to the Mentawai tribe is not a simple day trip from Padang. The first step is reaching Muaro Padang, where the fast ferry leaves for Siberut. The ferry currently operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Depending on the service and route, the crossing takes roughly four to six hours.

This is important when planning your trip because the ferry schedule basically determines your whole itinerary. For example, a popular five-day trip runs from Tuesday to Saturday: you leave Padang on Tuesday morning and return to Padang on Saturday.

Once you arrive in Siberut, the journey is far from over. You still have to travel inland towards the community. Depending on the location, this can involve a car or off-road vehicle, followed by a small motorised canoe along the river. The last part is usually on foot, through the forest and often through very muddy paths.

It can take a full day to reach the community. And honestly, that is part of what makes the experience special. You slowly leave the modern world behind.

Go with a local guide

This is not a trip you can organise on your own.

The communities are remote, and reaching the traditional houses requires local knowledge, transport and contact with the families. You need to travel with a local guide or company, not only because of the logistics, but also to make sure the experience is respectful to the people you are visiting.

We travelled with Mentawai Tribe, a local team made up of guides from the Mentawai Islands themselves. They work closely with local families and Sikerei (traditional shamans) and focus on sharing everyday life rather than organising staged shows or performances for visitors. The idea is not to simply visit the Mentawai people as a tourist attraction. You stay with families, share their meals and take part in their daily activities, while learning about their culture through people who are part of the community themselves.

This makes the experience feel much more personal, and, importantly, more respectful.

Mentawai Tribe: Immersive Culture and Responsible Travel

Who are the Mentawai people?

The Mentawai are the Indigenous people of the Mentawai Islands. Their traditional way of life has been closely connected to the forest, rivers and surrounding land for generations. Traditionally, communities lived in small clan groups, often centred around a communal house called an uma. The uma is much more than a place to sleep. It is a shared home and an important social and cultural space where families eat, meet and take part in ceremonies.

Life here is strongly connected to nature. The forest is not simply somewhere to find food. It provides sago, fruits, plants, medicine and materials for everyday life. Rivers are used for travelling and fishing, while the jungle provides hunting grounds.This way of thinking changes the way you see the forest.

It is not simply a place you walk through. It is part of their life.

There is also a strong spiritual side to Mentawai culture. Their traditional belief system, known as Arat Sabulungan, is based on maintaining a balance between people, nature and the spiritual world. The Mentawai believe that humans, animals, plants and other parts of the natural world have a spiritual essence.

A different relationship with time. One of the things you notice very quickly is how different the rhythm of life feels.

There is no need to rush from one activity to another. If someone wants to go fishing, you go fishing. If the family is preparing food, you sit down and help. If someone finds fruit in the forest, everyone shares it. There is no strict timetable like the one we are used to. The day follows the river, the forest, the weather, the food that needs to be collected and the activities of the community. And after a few days, you start to slow down too.

The Sikerei. One of the most fascinating parts of Mentawai culture is the role of the Sikerei, the traditional shaman. The Sikerei are much more than spiritual figures. They are also healers and important members of the community, with extensive knowledge of medicinal plants, rituals and the forest.

Their role is connected to the balance between the physical and spiritual worlds. Meeting a Sikerei is therefore not simply meeting a traditional healer. It is meeting someone who holds an important place within the community and its traditions.

Tattoos and identity. The Mentawai are also famous for their traditional tattoos, known as titi.

Tattoos have traditionally been connected to identity, status, community and a person’s relationship with the natural world. The designs are not simply decorative. For the Mentawai, the body itself can tell a story.

What do you actually do during your stay?

You don’t just visit the Mentawai. You live with them. During the few days spent in the community, you follow their daily rhythm and take part in simple activities rather than following a fixed tourist itinerary. You eat together, walk through the forest, spend time by the river and sleep in the same traditional house as the family. There is no separate experience created for visitors. You simply become part of their everyday life for a few days.

Fishing with the women. One of the activities we joined was fishing with the women from the community. We followed them to the river and learned how they catch fish using traditional methods. It is a simple activity, but it gives you a real idea of how closely daily life is connected to the river and the forest.

Exploring the forest. The forest is where much of the food and knowledge of the community comes from. We walked through the jungle looking for wild fruits, including durian, and learning about the different plants and trees around us. What looks like an ordinary forest to us is a place where the local people know where to find food, medicine and materials they use in everyday life.

Learning about traditional hunting. We also had the chance to follow the men into the forest and learn more about traditional hunting. The Mentawai have a deep knowledge of the jungle and know how to move through it, track animals and use traditional hunting tools. We also learned how natural poison is prepared and used on the tips of hunting arrows.

Finding food in unexpected places. One of the most surprising experiences was looking for sago worms in the forest. They are found inside old sago palm trunks and are considered a source of food by the local community. After finding them, we cooked them and ate them together. It is definitely not something we would normally do at home, but being there makes you much more open to trying things you would never usually consider.

Meeting a Sikerei. We also had the opportunity to meet a Sikerei, the traditional shaman of the community. It was a chance to learn more about their role, their knowledge of medicinal plants and their connection to the spiritual side of Mentawai culture. Meeting someone who holds such an important place in the community makes the experience feel very different from simply learning about the culture from a book or a guide.

Eating and sleeping with the family. At the end of the day, we returned to the uma, ate together and spent the evening with the family. We also slept there, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. There is no luxury or comfort in the usual sense, but after spending the day outside, sharing a simple meal and sleeping in the same house as the people you have spent the day with feels like a natural part of the experience.

The experience is about more than the activities. Fishing, hunting, looking for food or meeting a Sikerei are all memorable, but the most interesting part is simply being there. You start to understand how the different parts of daily life are connected: the forest provides food, the river provides fish and a way to travel, and the community shares what it has. For a few days, you are not just observing this way of life. You are experiencing it alongside the people who live it every day.

Some places stay with you long after you leave. Our time with the Mentawai was one of them. For a few days, we left behind our usual routines and followed a completely different rhythm, sharing meals, exploring the forest, travelling by canoe and learning from the people around us.

Siberut is not the easiest place to reach, but that is part of what makes it special. If you are looking for an experience that goes beyond simply visiting a new place, spending a few days with the Mentawai offers a rare chance to slow down, connect with nature and experience everyday life from a completely different perspective.

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