A Traveler's Guide to Visiting All 34 Provinces of Indonesia
Indonesia is a geographically vast and culturally rich archipelago country consisting of over 17,000 islands. With 34 provinces stretching across the islands of Sumatra, Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua, exploring the entirety of Indonesia can seem like a daunting task. However, by planning multi-leg trips focused on geographical regions, one can efficiently visit each province and experience the diversity this remarkable nation has to offer.
Finding the Right Approach
Given its size and geographic complexity, traveling to all 34 provinces require significant preparation in terms of time commitment, budget and strategy. A balanced itinerary dividing Indonesia into logical regions makes the exhaustive endeavor realistic within 1-2 years. By dedicating 2 weeks minimum to each province and utilizing affordable local transportation, one can deeply immerse in the locales while keeping costs reasonable. Flying between major destinations help maximize coverage while minimizing time spent on lengthy overland journeys. Additionally, separating Indonesia into 5 distinct multi-province trips allows appreciating cultural differences between areas like Sumatra, Java/Bali, Kalimantan, Sulawesi/Maluku and Papua. With diligent planning, even those on a budget can experience a diversity of landscapes, peoples and traditions across the entire archipelago.
Trip 1: Java and Bali’s Cultural Heartland
Kicking off the discovery of Indonesia’s regions, this initial excursion efficiently covers western Java, central Java and Bali via efficient transportation links. Starting in the capital Jakarta, travelers can experience its buzzing modern city life before embarking southwards. After a short train ride, Bandung offers respite in its cooler highland climate and popular dining scene. Further south, the academic city of Yogyakarta with its iconic sultanate palace is a highlight. Not missing Surabaya’s role as East Java’s economic powerhouse, the journey ends in the paradise island of Bali. With its colorful Hindu culture and world-class beaches, Bali ensures a memorable conclusion to the first Java and Bali trip.
Trip 2: Sumatra’s Natural Splendors and Diversity
As Indonesia’s largest island, Sumatra presents a diverse array of landscapes, peoples and destinations worthy of deeper exploration. This two-week circular route starting in Medan introduces Sumatra’s highlights. The busy capital of North Sumatra acts as a gateway to scenic highlands. Continuing south exposes travelers to the culturally distinct Minangkabau in Padang and the orangutan reserves of Bukit Lawang. Further down lies the trading port of Bengkulu before turning northwards. Crowning the journey, Lake Toba’s stunning supervolcanic caldera leaves lasting impressions of Sumatra’s natural beauty.
Trip 3: Borneo’s Indigenous Heritage
Centered around the island of Borneo, shared between Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, this adventure targets Kalimantan’s unique ethnic groups and lush tropical rainforests. Flying into Pontianak, travelers encounter the Dayak people in their longhouses along Sungai Kapuas. Jumping eastwards to the coastal city of Balikpapan, a short ride leads to Samarinda, heart of East Kalimantan’s oil industry. Venturing into Central Kalimantan, the magnificent orangutans of Tanjung Puting National Park offer rare encounters. Continuing south to Banjarmasin finishes with the seafaring Banjar people.
Trip 4: Sulawesi and Maluku’s Cultures
Designated for the geographically complex central islands, this intense overland and marine journey truly taps into Indonesia’s diversity. Starting from the Celebes Sea port of Makassar, a route north leads to Gorontalo’s blend of Christians and Muslims. Jumping northwest across the strait finds Manado, with its famous cuisine. Taking to the seas again targets the iconic Ternate and Tidore islands of the northern Moluccas. Continuing down to Ambon exposes more of the spice-trading Maluku culture. Ending in remote West Sulawesi encounters more unique tribes like the Toraja.
Trip 5: Papua’s Tribal Societies
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure, Papua offers encounters with some of the world’s last remaining pre-Neolithic tribes.
Flying into Jayapura, the capital of West Papua, a short hop arrives in the bustling trading hub of Sorong for provisions. From here, chartered planes offer access further across this remote region. Highlights include colorful Asmat art of Agats and the Baliem Valley home to the Dani people. These vibrant indigenous communities leave lifelong impressions of Papua’s tribal heritage.
Completing the Mission
Across five strategically planned trips focusing on regions, one can efficiently cover all 34 provinces of the fascinating Indonesian archipelago. With an open mind and respect for local cultures, travelers gain meaningful first-hand experiences of Indonesia’s diverse landscapes, peoples and traditions. Achieving an expedition many only dream of, they can feel a true sense of accomplishment in completing this exhaustive but thoroughly rewarding mission of circling all corners of this magnificent nation. 