Cover Archipelago Hotels welcome travellers across Indonesia’s most scenic destinations such as Raja Ampat in Papua
Archipelago Hotels welcome travellers across Indonesia’s most scenic destinations such as Raja Ampat in Papua
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From the wildlife sanctuaries of Sumatra to the vibrant reefs of Papua, Indonesia’s vast archipelago invites effortless exploration. Here is how to navigate it with ease.
There is a quiet shift happening across Indonesia. While the pull of classic island retreats remains steady, more travellers are turning their gaze toward the country's vast, untamed horizons. Official figures reflect this change: with international visitors topping 15 million and domestic journeys reaching record numbers, the spirit of exploration is spreading far beyond standard flight paths. Beyond the usual landing points lies an interconnected world of volcanic peaks, ancient rainforests, and remote marine ecosystems waiting to be explored across the archipelago.
Here are the destinations in Indonesia to put on your radar for your next trip.
Sumatra: hidden coastlines and forest sanctuaries
Above Aston Lampung City Hotel
Above Pahawang Island
Aston Lampung City Hotel
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In the southern reaches of Sumatra, Lampung serves as an inviting starting point for those seeking open sea and quiet sanctuaries. Offshore, the translucent waters of Pahawang Island offer serene snorkeling among thriving coral ecosystems, while the dramatic, tooth-like rock spires of Gigi Hiu Beach present one of the island’s most striking coastal vistas.
Inland, the dense canopy of Way Kambas National Park provides shelter for vital elephant conservation efforts, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the island’s raw biodiversity. A stay at Aston Lampung City Hotel provides a practical, comfortable base before setting out into the wild.
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Java: volcanic landscapes and ancient crater
Above Swimming pool at Aston Banyuwangi Hotel & Conference Center
Above East Java’s Kawah Ijen is a legendary volcanic crater home to a vivid turquoise acidic lake, electric-blue flames, and traditional sulphur miners.
Swimming pool at Aston Banyuwangi Hotel & Conference Center
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Further east along the volcanic spine of Java, the landscape transforms into dramatic terrain. Mount Bromo continues to captivate with its wide sea of sand and crisp morning air as light breaks over the caldera. Near the island’s easternmost tip, Banyuwangi opens the door to Ijen Crater, famous for the rare blue flames that illuminate its mineral-rich lake in the dead of night. Resting at Aston Banyuwangi Hotel & Conference Center allows travellers to recharge comfortably before setting off on early morning ascents.
Kalimantan: floating traditions on the river
Above Lok Baintan Floating Market, Banjarmasin
Above Harper Banjarmasin
Lok Baintan Floating Market, Banjarmasin
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In Kalimantan, life revolves entirely around the water. In Banjarmasin, the Lok Baintan Floating Market carries on a centuries-old way of life. Here, local merchants gather at dawn on traditional wooden boats, trading fresh tropical produce and hand-crafted goods along the winding river currents. Staying at properties such as Harper Banjarmasin offers a front-row seat to this vibrant river culture.
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Sulawesi: natural wonders and ancient culture
Above Have a well-rested stay at Aston Makassar Hotel & Convention Center
Above Rammang-Rammang, Maros Regency
Have a well-rested stay at Aston Makassar Hotel & Convention Center
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Across the sea in South Sulawesi, Makassar acts as a stepping stone to Rammang-Rammang in Maros Regency. Here, peaceful, mirror-like rivers wind through massive limestone karst formations, revealing traditional wooden stilt villages tucked quietly at the foot of towering cliff faces. Returning to Aston Makassar Hotel & Convention Center provides a seamless transition back to modern comfort after a day spent exploring these ancient landscapes.
Bali and East Nusa Tenggara: the ultimate island escapes
Snorkelling in Gili Trawangan
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In Bali, Ubud retains its gentle rhythm of terraced rice fields and quiet forest paths, best experienced from Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest. Moving further east into Nusa Tenggara, Lombok opens up to the famous Gili Islands. Gili Trawangan lures travellers with its white-sand beaches, car-free lanes, and clear waters ideal for sea turtle encounters, with Aston Sunset Beach Resort serving as a peaceful coastal haven.
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Papua: world-class diving spot
Above Raja Ampat, one of the world's most sought-after diving destinations
Above Aston Suite at Aston Sorong Hotel & Conference Center
Raja Ampat, one of the world's most sought-after diving destinations
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At Indonesia's easternmost frontier, Sorong serves as the threshold to Raja Ampat—one of the world's most celebrated marine sanctuaries. Home to unmatched underwater biodiversity, the region also conceals inland treasures like Kali Biru, a crystal-clear turquoise river tucked deep within pristine rainforest. Resting at Aston Sorong Hotel & Conference Center gives travellers a reassuring anchor before and after their island expeditions.
Across every corner of the country, Archipelago Hotels provides a reliable shelter, ensuring that wherever your journey leads, a warm welcome awaits. With more than 350 hotels and over 45,000 rooms across the archipelago, rest assured that all your accommodation needs are covered.
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Since embarking on her career as a food journalist in 2012, she has penned hundreds of articles delving into culinary trends, chef profiles, and gastronomic destinations across Asia. Born and raised in Bali, Eve is dividing her time between Bali and Jakarta.
