The first human inhabitants of the island are believed to have arrived about 5000 years ago, as they traveled from the Asian mainland on their way to dispersing throughout the Indonesian islands. Tools made from stone have been uncovered in Bali that experts believe date back to the times of these ancient immigrants, the first Indonesians. A second influx arrived in about 100 BCE, bringing important technological advances in agriculture with them from India. Their methods of irrigation allowed rice to be cultivated on Bali. These new arrivals left a lasting trace on the island. Visitors today can still see the influence they had, both culturally and religiously, on Bali.

The natural beauty of Bali is as much of a draw for tourists as the unique culture of this tradition-rich island. Bali measures only about 150 km by 100 km, but packed within this compact space is a wealth of varied and stunning landscapes, including vast mountains of more than 10,000 feet. The volcanic history of the island has left its mark on the landscape. The volcanic mountain, Batur, is believed to have been the source of one of the worst catastrophes in history, when it exploded many hundreds of years ago, while even the tallest mountain, Agung, is a volcano that apparently last erupted during the sixties.

Visitors of a less active disposition may prefer to view the mountains from a distance, and spend their time exploring the beautiful and serene coast. There are many excellent beaches to relax on, from the pure white sands of the south to the exotic black beaches in western Bali. The island is circled by coral reefs and shallow waters that make it an ideal spot to enjoy the sea. The bright blue of the lagoon at Padangbai among the warm, clear waters is particularly stunning.

The capital city, Jakarta, retains traces of the European colonists who settled here. Visitors with an interest in architecture will find that they can still see buildings in the Dutch and British styles scattered around the city, while there is also an excellent museum here where you can discover more about the varied history of Indonesia, from the first humans who arrived in the prehistoric age to the modern day. A visit to Jakarta wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the National Monument, which rises more than four hundred feet above the streets.

Bali has a population of about two and a half million people, and the northern part of the island is one of the richest agricultural regions in the country. This island offers the chance to experience the Hindu culture in a stunning setting where vast mountains reach more than ten thousand feet into the sky, and the beaches offer the perfect setting to spend some time relaxing and enjoying the view of the calm water. Sanur is one of the best destinations if you want to experience the best that Indonesian beaches have to offer.

The natural beauty and wildlife of Indonesia can best be experienced on a trip to Sulawesi or Sumatra. To get an idea of the wide range of habitats within the borders of Indonesia you would really have to spend some time on both of these very different islands, and even then you would have more to discover around the rest of the archipelago. Sulawesi offers a chance to explore the lush vegetation and bountiful wildlife of mountain valleys and cleat lakes. There are many volcanic springs and spectacular geysers too. The butterfly reserve at Bantimurung is a spectacular chance to see some of the native wildlife, with many species making their homes here. The wildlife of Sumatra is very different. Anyone who has already been on an African safari will find this to be a familiar environment, although with its own unique sights and experiences. Guides will be able to show you rhinos and elephants, as well as the shy tapirs and tigers that hide among the thick jungles and forests.

The sort of vacation you are looking for will determine which of the Indonesian islands you should choose to visit. Each has its own particular nature that will appeal to particular interests.