Indonesia

When most people think of Bali, they think about its countless resorts, relaxing spas, or epic waves.  Although all of these things have something great to offer, there is nothing quite like trekking in pure darkness to see one of the most incredible sunrises unravel in front of your eyes.  Be warned, you will not be the only one with the Mt. Batur summit vantage point of an Indonesian sunset o...

The initial hike up from the start point to the rim of the crater takes 60 to 90 minutes at moderate pace to cover the 3km distance reaching an elevation of around 2,300m. The Paltuding Trailhead can be found at the Paltuding Trekking Camp, which is a good launching point as well as possible accommodations and last minute supplies.The path itself is in good condition and in most places is quite...

Hidden in the dense jungles of Northern Bali lies Sekumpul Waterfalls, a collection of picturesque waterfalls away from the crowds.From Kuta, you can organise a private driver to take you to the falls. Around $80 US will get you the entire vehicle, so the more people you have, the cheaper it will be. Most drivers are familiar with these falls so you should have no trouble finding a ride.Note: D...

Many hikes are available in the area, and most if not all of them can be completed without a tour guide (regardless of what the tour operators will tell you).Perhaps the most common hike can be completed in a morning and begins at the sleepy little town of Cemoro Lawang, descending down the caldera rim into the sea of sand, crossing this vast expanse of an almost moon-like surface, and then cli...

At a height of 3,142m above sea level, Gunung Agung is the highest volcano on the island and the 14th highest in Indonesia. The mountain last erupted in 1963 and 1964 and is still considered active with a large and deep crater. This mountain is the hardest on the island and is a true adventure, especially if you decide to go without a guide.Guides are available for all routes but with the recen...

Starting at Labuan Bajo's only public beach, Pantai Pede, it is best to leave around 7am when the current is calm and the tide is in. Paddling out from the beach to the North, you will work your way through the West end of the harbor. You are likely to encounter dolphins and sea turtles as soon as you cross the coral reef protecting the beach.You will paddle North for about 1 hour on your way t...

Nyang Nyang Beach is one of those secret-feeling beaches that we all want to find. Once you get to the parking area you walk down a steep dirt road for about a half mile. There aren't any warungs down at the beach so bring snacks and drinks, although there is one where you park to stock up on cold drinks. Do some good and bring plastic bags with you to clean up some of the trash that inevitably...

Gunung Api (translation fire mountain) is a 666m high active volcano in Indonesia's Banda Islands. To access the start of the trail leading to the top, speak with any of the local fishermen in the main port of Banda Naira, who will often gladly zip you over the straight. Expect to pay them a little for their effort, maybe 30k rupiah. The trail itself is easy to follow once you get to it althoug...