According to the Australian Embassy[1] in Indonesia, more than one million Aussie travellers visit Bali every year, making up more than a quarter of the total tourists in Bali. Now with the awareness of overtourism rising, Aussie adventure travel company Intrepid Travel is encouraging Australians to get off the beaten path to discover Sulawesi, Nusa Lembongan and Kalimantan. Globally renowned as a leader in responsible tourism, Intrepid will take small groups of travellers to these places, to ensure that tourism dollars are dispersed to benefit locals.
“There’s no question that Bali is a firm favourite amongst Aussies, but we want travellers to look beyond the clubs and shops in Seminyak, to other destinations within Indonesia for a truly authentic experience,” said Tara Kennaway, Intrepid Travel’s Regional Product Manager.
“Experiences like trekking through remote areas of Sulawesi, staying overnight on a boat in the jungle to spot orangutans in the wild, taking a cooking class in Ubud or swimming in natural pools in Nusa Penida.”
Intrepid Travel’s new Indonesian trips for 2020 include:
Sulawesi Expedition: Tana Toraja Trek: Venture to the Greater Sunda Islands of Indonesia to discover Sulawesi. On this trip, travellers will hike deep into the mountainous heart of Sulawesi and witness the compelling combination of art and ritual surrounding burial traditions that’s central to the existence of one of Indonesia’s most fascinating cultures. Highlights of this 11-day trip include soaking up the tranquil atmosphere of the Rammang Rammang village while floating along the river in a traditional wooden boat, trekking through evergreen valleys and bamboo forests, and having the opportunity to be a part of an incredible community project in the village of Puntondo. Prices start from $1,575 per adult in twin share, departing Saturday 11th April 2020.
Spirit of Bali and Nusa Lembongan: Take a calming adventure through the island of Nusa Lembongan to discover traditional villages and striking beaches. On this nine day trip, travellers will learn about true Balinese cuisine while taking an in-depth cooking class where they will source ingredients from local markets and on-site farm, participate in a water purification ceremony at the Tirta Sudamala temple and discover the secluded landscapes of rice fields and terraces during a local village walk. Highlights include learning about the medicinal properties and health benefits of the Javanese jamu drink and taking a day trip to Nusa Penida, known for its panoramic vistas, beaches and sapphire waters.
Prices start from $1,460 per adult in twin share, departing Saturday 4th April 2020.
Indonesian Expedition: Orangutans of Kalimantan: Embark on an orangutan expedition to Kalimantan in search of these gentle giants of the Borneo jungle. On this trip, travellers will venture to the Indonesian side of Borneo, explore the island’s jungle and learn about the local way of life. Highlights include sleeping on board a traditional klotok boat while making their way through the winding rivers in Tanjung Puting National Park, heading out on a canoe safari in Sebangau National Park searching for orangutans and other local wildlife, and discovering Indonesia’s metropolis of Jakarta.
Prices start from $2,995 per adult in twin share, departing Saturday 18th April 2020.
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