Indonesia

Indonesia is a beautiful, exciting and diverse country located in Southeast Asia. It comprises approximately 17,000 islands, which are home to some of the world’s most stunning scenery and incredible geographical features, such as steaming volcanoes, lush jungles and breathtaking beaches. It’s also a country as rich with history and culture as it is with natural beauty. From cliffside temples to volcanic lakes to beach parties and vibrant cities, Indonesia offers a delicious blend of adventure, excitement and relaxation.

Language: Indonesian
Currency: Rupiah
Government: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic

Did you know?

• Indonesia is the largest Islamic country. Approximately 87% of the population is Muslim.
• Indonesia is home to the Javan Rhino, which is not found anywhere else in the world.
• There are more than 580 languages and dialects spoken in Indonesia.
• Like nutmeg? Indonesia produces most of the world’s supply.

Climate

Indonesia is almost entirely a tropical climate without significant temperature change by season or location. Since there is no real differences in temperature, the way to differentiate between seasons is whether they are wet or dry; during the wet season there is a regular risk of typhoons and large storms. The year-round temperature averages 27 degrees Celsius, no matter the location.

• Dry Season: April – October
• Rainy Season: November – March

History

Fossils of the homo erectus have been found in Indonesia dating back more than one million years ago. Modern man reached Indonesia about 45,000 years ago and, by the 1st century, the country had a flourishing array of villages, towns and small kingdoms. By the 16th century, Islam was widely adopted in most of Indonesia. During World War II, Indonesia was occupied by Japan in what was sadly one of the most oppressive regimes in Indonesian history. It’s said that four million people died of starvation during this time. Indonesia was formally recognized as a independent in 1949 after being ruled by the Dutch prior to the war. Today, Indonesia battles with political and economic instability; yet, despite all of the different religious and ethnic groups, Indonesians live for the most part quite harmoniously.

MUST SEE

KOMODO NATIONAL PARK
This park is home to, and named after, the Komodo dragon – the world’s largest living reptile. Komodo dragons can grow to be three meters or more in length and weigh more than 70kg. The dragons eat mostly dead animals, however they are great predators and will hunt birds and mammals. Not to worry, however, as attacks on humans are very rare. Besides being home to the dragons, the park is also a refuge for various other land mammals and also features a rich marine environment of coral reefs, mangroves and submarine mountains. The park is committed to protecting its biodiversity, and in 1986, was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.