Indonesia is a wonderful country with a diversified species and breathtaking natural beauty. A scenic drive around Indonesia is a wonderful way to appreciate the country’s beauty while immersing yourself in its culture. Here are the top five scenic drives in Indonesia:
Bali’s North Coast Road: Bali is one of the Indonesia’s most popular tourist attractions, and the North Coast Road is one of the country’s most gorgeous drives. This route travels along Bali’s northern shore, providing breathtaking views of the sea, lush trees, and traditional Balinese villages. Along the journey, you can stop to see the gorgeous Gitgit Waterfall, the old Singaraja town, and the famous Lovina Beach. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours and is best completed early in the morning to avoid traffic.
Trans-Sumatran Highway: This is one of Indonesia’s longest highways, stretching from Banda Aceh in the west to Medan in the east. The highway passes through dense forests, rugged mountain ranges, and traditional villages, offering a unique glimpse into Sumatra’s diverse cultures and natural beauty. Along the journey, you can visit the beautiful Lake Toba, the Bukit Lawang orangutan sanctuary, and the ancient city of Banda Aceh. Depending on how many stops you make, the drive takes about 2-3 days.
Lombok’s Coastal Road: Lombok is an island immediately east of Bali noted for its magnificent beaches, mountainous scenery, and traditional Sasak culture. The coastal route that round the island provides breathtaking views of the sea, undulating hills, and quaint settlements. Along the journey, you can visit the famed Mount Rinjani, the lovely Pink Beach, and the ancient Sasak town of Sade. The trip takes about 4-5 hours and is best done early in the morning to avoid traffic.
Puncak Pass: Puncak Pass, located on the island of Java, is a favourite weekend escape for Jakarta residents. The pass provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and tea fields, especially around sunrise and sunset. Along the trip, you can see the famed Taman Safari Indonesia, the lovely Botanical Gardens, and the old Cibodas Palace. The travel from Jakarta takes about 2-3 hours and is best done early in the morning to avoid traffic.
Baliem Valley: Located in the central highlands of Papua, the Baliem Valley is home to the Dani tribe, one of Indonesia’s most traditional and secluded tribes. The valley provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, dense forests, and traditional Dani settlements. You can visit local markets, experience a tribal ceremony, and climb to the magnificent Baliem Gorge along the way. The travel from Jayapura takes about 4-5 hours and is best done with a local guide.
In conclusion, Indonesia is a country with numerous magnificent and unique scenic drives for visitors to explore. There are numerous options for travelers to choose from, including Bali’s North Coast Road, the Trans-Sumatran Highway, Lombok’s Coastal Road, Puncak Pass, and Baliem Valley. Each drive has a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and historical significance. A scenic drive in Indonesia is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, meet locals, and see the breathtaking scenery that make it such a unique destination.
