Rich cultures and nature define Indonesia. Born of fire, the volcanic islands that make up this archipelago offer some of the world's best snorkeling and diving among absolutely stunning biodiversity. Lace up your hiking boots or strap on a snorkel to visit:

• Banda Neira – As part of the Banda Islands, this volcanic archipelago is teeming with wildlife just waiting to be explored.
• Jayapura - Take a step into simplicity in this largely isolated part of Indonesia, where many modern comforts are scarce, though the regional culture is rich.
• Bali - The departure point for several cruises, it is also home to the charming "Island of the Gods."
• Bunaken Marine Park - Snorkel & dive your way along these protected reefs that are home to hundreds of fish and beautiful soft corals.
• Raja Ampat - A veritable paradise for bird lovers and snorkelers, there are more than 1,200 species of fish, 75% of the known coral species in the world, and many endemic birds.
• Asmat – See a native tribe & witness their way of life up close, as you hike and explore this tropical region by zodiac.

• Ponant - promises you unforgettable moments aboard its sleek and intimately sized cruise yachts, all of which sail under the French flag. Discover the region's diverse scenery, ancient temples, cultural landmarks, lush plant life, idyllic beaches, and desert island on the Paul Gauguin. 
• Sea Trek Sailing Adventures offers many of the creature comforts of the modern world, with its two wooden pinisi ships, Ombak Putih and Katharina, part of a beautiful, centuries-old maritime tradition of hand-crafted boat-building now classified as a UNESCO cultural heritage. Embark on a snorkeling and sailing adventure in Indonesia. See coral reefs, birdwatch, and search for rare birds and animals.
• Aqua Expeditions - provide specially-curated experiences and an engaging 1:1 guest to guide ratio. Its boutique expedition vessels offer personalized service, spacious private and entertaining spaces, and tailor-made excursions. Presenting a brand-new cruise experience in the pristine east Indonesian archipelago, Aqua Blu is a long-range explorer yacht sailing the region’s most prized destinations, including Komodo National Park, Spice Islands, and Raja Ampat.
• Aurora Expeditions - is an Australian-based company that pioneered ship-based adventures 30 years ago with expedition cruises to Antarctica. On the 132-guest Sylvia Earle cruise Raja Ampat, the jewel of West Papua. This area of Indonesia is part of what is called The Coral Triangle. 
• Coral Expeditions - has operated Australian flagged small-ship expedition cruises to remote locations in Australia and beyond for over 35 years. Voyage beyond the famous Komodo Dragons and volcanic Krakatoa and discover the Indonesian Island's remarkable cultural and natural heritage aboard the Coral Adventurer.
• Silversea Cruises -  offers an all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruising across 900+ fascinating destinations. Silver Explorer takes you through the lesser-known parts of the southern hemisphere from Bali's shores Silver Explorer takes you through the lesser-known aspects of the southern hemisphere to exotically named places such as Komodo, Makassar, and Jayapura. 
• Heritage Expeditions - have been ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in expedition travel to the world's best-kept secrets. This expedition to Indonesia aboard Heritage Adventurer offers numerous opportunities to spot once-in-a-lifetime species and experience rare wildlife encounters on remote and unknown islands for botanists, birders, and nature lovers alike. Heritage Adventurer provides numerous opportunities to spot once-in-a-lifetime species and experience rare wildlife encounters on remote and unknown islands.

• Indonesia is an archipelago nation that claims over 17,500 islands.
• A large part of the country is on the island of Borneo, which Indonesia shares with Brunei and Malaysia.
• The world's most populous island is in Indonesia - Java has 130 million people, which is 60 percent of the country's population.
• Indonesia uses the Rupiah currency.
• The two main sports are soccer and, interestingly, badminton.
• In the 19th century, it was also referred to as the Dutch East Indies, and the name Indonesia has both Latin and Greek roots.

Do I need a visa to travel to Indonesia?
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Indonesia for stays less than 30 days. They are required if you plan to stay longer. Tourist visas are not hard to get, and we can help point you in the right direction throughout the process. Check the visa requirements for more specific information.

Is tipping customary in Indonesia?
A 10 percent tip in Indonesia is appreciated at restaurants; drivers can get around $15-20 per day, and guides should be tipped between $25-40 per couple.

What is internet access like in Indonesia?
It's available and improving its reach, but don't count on it. The number of internet users and providers in Indonesia has just recently begun to boom, recently breaching 100 million users. However, this doesn't account for speed or WiFi - luxuries mainly found in the upscale hotels and travel businesses like restaurants. The further you get from Indonesia's major cities, the less likely it is that you will be able to find internet.

Can I use my cell phone while in Indonesia?
While your vacation will probably be in isolated parts of Indonesia where cell service is limited, if you do want to make sure that your phone will work, the best option is asking your service provider to unlock your GSM-enabled phone so that you can purchase a SIM chip once you arrive and access the local cell network. Using only WiFi or getting an international plan are alternatives, but they aren't always an option.

Do I need power adapters?
Throughout Indonesia and most of the surrounding Pacific provinces, you will need plug adapters for C & F style plugs - two round prongs like throughout Europe. Power converters from 230v to 110v usually aren't necessary. 

What are the toilets like in Indonesia?
Throughout Indonesia you will likely encounter mostly squat toilets that require you to bring your own toilet paper. Nicer hotels and ships will have Western style bowls. No matter which type of toilet you are using, it's important to throw the toilet paper in the waste basket instead of flushing it.

Can I drink the water in Indonesia?
No, but we will make sure that you always have access to clean bottled water or purified water.

Are credit cards accepted in Indonesia? Will I be able to find ATMs?
In the more developed parts of Indonesia, and especially cities, you will be able to use your card at ATMs, but many vendors and stores might not accept your card. In fact, international cards might only be accepted at the higher end businesses (like hotels and restaurants). It's safest to take out cash at the ATMs.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes, and fortunately for you we have some excellent deals through our partner TravelGuard Insurance. It's always safest to travel with insurance, and TravelGuard offers some excellent comprehensive packages.