Indonesia, the world’s largest island nation, is home to an astonishing array of natural wonders. From pristine beaches to active volcanoes, lush rainforests to crystal-clear lakes, Indonesia’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. One of the best ways to experience the country’s raw beauty is by exploring its numerous national parks and reserves on foot.
Sumatra’s Gunung Leuser National Park
Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts an impressive array of ecosystems, including lowland rainforests, montane forests, and peat swamp forests. The park is home to some of the world’s most endangered species, such as the Sumatran tiger, orangutan, rhinoceros, and elephant. Trekking through Gunung Leuser allows visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s dense jungle environment and catch glimpses of its wildlife.
A trek into the heart of Gunung Leuser typically begins in the village of Bukit Lawang. Here, experienced guides can be hired to lead visitors along well-established trails that wind through the lush vegetation. Along the way, trekkers may spot a variety of bird species, such as the colourful hornbill and the elusive Sumatran peacock, as well as monkeys, gibbons, and other primates.
One of the highlights of a trek in Gunung Leuser is the chance to observe orangutans in their natural habitat. These intelligent apes are critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. With the help of a guide, visitors may be able to spot wild orangutans feeding on fruits or resting high up in the canopy.
Java’s Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park
Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park in East Java is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The park features a vast caldera, known as Tengger, which is dotted with several volcanoes, including the iconic Mount Bromo.
Trekking in Bromo-Tengger-Semeru offers visitors a challenging but rewarding experience. The most popular route takes trekkers from the village of Cemoro Lawang to the edge of the caldera, where they can witness the otherworldly sight of Mount Bromo’s towering ash cone rising above the sea of sand.
The trek typically begins at night, with trekkers ascending through the darkness towards the viewpoint known as Pananjakan. As dawn approaches, the sky transforms into a breathtaking display of hues, reflecting off the caldera below. The sight of the sun rising over the silhouette of Mount Bromo is truly unforgettable.
From Pananjakan, the trek continues down into the heart of the caldera, where trekkers can walk across the vast expanse of sand and ash. Along the way, they may spot the Tenggerese people, an ethnic group who have lived in the caldera for centuries, tending to their crops amidst the volcanic landscape.
Borneo’s Danum Valley Conservation Area
Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, is home to a vast expanse of primary rainforest, much of which lies within protected areas. One of the most renowned is the Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo.
The Danum Valley is one of the few remaining pristine examples of lowland dipterocarp forest and is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal species. Trekking through this lush environment allows visitors to experience the rich tapestry of life that thrives here.
Danum Valley offers a range of trekking options, from short nature walks to multi-day expeditions deep into the jungle. One popular trail leads to a canopy walkway, a 30-meter-high suspension bridge that provides a unique perspective on the forest ecosystem. Here, trekkers may spot colorful birds, butterflies, and even primates such as proboscis monkeys.
Another highlight of trekking in Danum Valley is the opportunity to observe the elusive Bornean pygmy elephant. These small elephants are critically endangered and rarely seen by humans. With the help of a skilled guide, visitors may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants as they forage for food along the forest floor.

Flores’ Komodo National Park
Flores is an island in eastern Indonesia that is perhaps best known for being home to the world’s largest lizards – the komodo dragons. The Komodo National Park, which encompasses several islands including Komodo and Rinca, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique trekking experience.
The most popular trek in Komodo National Park is on the island of Komodo itself. Trekkers typically begin at Loh Liang village on the western side of the island and set out with an experienced guide to explore the park’s interior.
As the trail winds through dry savanna and lush forest, trekkers may spot a variety of bird species, including the distinctive komodo dragon monitor lizard. The real excitement comes when visitors catch their first glimpse of a wild komodo dragon. These fearsome creatures can grow up to 3 meters in length and possess a venomous bite that has proven lethal to humans.
The trek continues through the park’s diverse ecosystems, with opportunities to spot other wildlife such as wild pigs, deer, and water buffalo. Trekkers may also visit a nesting site for the endangered komodo dragon, where they can observe the impressive hatchlings up close (with appropriate safety precautions).
Papua New Guinea’s Hiking Paradise
Papua New Guinea is an island nation that lies to the east of Indonesia and shares many cultural and linguistic ties with its neighbor. This wild and rugged land is a paradise for hikers, offering a range of challenging treks through stunning landscapes.
One of the most famous hikes in Papua New Guinea is the Kokoda Track, a 96-kilometer trail that follows the route taken by Allied soldiers during World War II as they fought to defend Port Moresby from Japanese invaders. Today, the track passes through lush tropical rainforests, mist-shrouded mountains, and fast-flowing rivers.
The trek typically takes between 5-9 days to complete, with trekkers carrying their own gear and supplies. Along the way, they will encounter local villagers who live in traditional communities along the trail, and may have the opportunity to witness ancient customs and try local cuisine.
Another highlight of hiking in Papua New Guinea is the opportunity to explore its many remote villages and tribes. The highlands of PNG are home to a remarkable diversity of linguistic groups, each with their own unique traditions and practices. By trekking through these areas, visitors can gain insights into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
From the mist-shrouded peaks of the highlands to the lush jungles of the lowlands, Papua New Guinea offers an unparalleled hiking experience that combines physical challenge with cultural immersion and natural beauty. It is a destination that will leave even the most seasoned trekkers awestruck by its raw power and untamed wilderness.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s national parks and reserves are home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. From the lush rainforests of Sumatra and Borneo to the volcanic wonders of Java and the komodo dragons of Flores, there is no shortage of incredible trekking experiences to be had in this diverse and captivating nation. With the right preparation, a sense of adventure, and a deep respect for the natural world, visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of Indonesia’s wild places and create memories that will last a lifetime.