Indonesia is massive and endlessly varied — over 17,000 islands with completely different cultures, landscapes, and travel experiences. While Bali is the best-known, backpackers often fall in love with other regions: volcano treks in Java, underwater life in Komodo, and the relaxed beaches of the Gili Islands.

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This is a country where you can go from ancient temples to tropical forests to vibrant surf towns in a matter of days. Local traditions, food, and languages change from island to island, giving Indonesia more diversity than almost anywhere in Southeast Asia.

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Being so spread out, travel depends on flights and ferries, and weather can vary by region. Indonesia is ideal for those wanting a bigger, more adventurous trip.