50 Best Countries to Visit in 2026: The Ultimate Global Travel Guide

Bali, Indonesia's most iconic tropical paradise, is famously known as the "Island of the Gods" for its deep spiritual heritage, thousands of ancient Hindu temples, and vibrant daily rituals. This enchanting Indonesian island blends breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural traditions, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes with Mount Batur and Mount Agung, lush emerald rice terraces in Ubud and Jatiluwih (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and pristine beaches ranging from the golden sands of Kuta and Seminyak to the serene black-sand shores of Lovina. Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, captivates with world-class art galleries, traditional dance performances, monkey forests, yoga retreats, and artisan villages specializing in woodcarving, silverwork, and batik.
Bali's spiritual essence shines through iconic temples like Tanah Lot (dramatically perched on the ocean), Uluwatu (with cliffside views and Kecak fire dance), and Besakih Mother Temple. The island offers world-renowned surfing, diving, wellness spas, luxury villas, and an incredible food scene featuring Balinese specialties like babi guling (roast suckling pig), satay, and fresh seafood infused with aromatic local spices.
Websites:
https://disparda.baliprov.go.id/en
balitourismboard.info visitbali.com

Raja Ampat, often called the world's most biodiverse coral paradise, is a remote archipelago in West Papua, Indonesia, comprising over 1,500 islands, atolls, and cays surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Renowned as a top diving and snorkeling destination, Raja Ampat boasts more than 540 coral species—75% of the world's total—and over 1,000 fish varieties, including vibrant tropical species, manta rays, turtles, sharks, and dugongs. Above water, lush rainforests host exotic birds of paradise, colorful butterflies, and traditional Papuan villages offering cultural insights through dances and homestays. Popular spots like Piaynemo viewpoint showcase dramatic karst islets rising from emerald seas, perfect for photography and island hopping. Accessible via Sorong (SOQ airport), visitors enjoy eco-friendly resorts, liveaboards, and sustainable tourism practices with conservation fees supporting marine protection. Best visited October–April during the dry season for calm seas and optimal visibility. Whether diving pristine reefs, kayaking hidden lagoons, or relaxing on white-sand beaches, Raja Ampat delivers an unparalleled paradise escape far from crowds, blending adventure, biodiversity, and serenity in Indonesia's eastern frontier. Ideal for nature lovers seeking the ultimate underwater wonderland.
Websites:
https://www.indonesia.travel/us/en/destination/maluku-papua/southwest-papua/raja-ampat---do-not-miss-these-pieces-of-paradise-at-the-incridible-raja-ampat-island-s
https://kkprajaampat.com/en
https://sipari-rajaampat.id/en

Maluk Beach on Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, is a pristine, lesser-known gem featuring soft white sands, calm turquoise waters, and dramatic flanking hills that create a sheltered paradise. Protected by offshore reefs, the beach offers safe swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly relaxation, while bigger waves attract surfers. Visitors enjoy sunrise views behind Mantun Hill, crab hunting, beach walking, and exploring nearby turtle conservation efforts. Affordable local food stalls serve fresh seafood and drinks amid a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere—ideal for escaping Bali's hustle. Reachable from Lombok International Airport (LOP) via ferry to Sumbawa and a short drive, Maluk remains relatively untouched, blending natural beauty with tranquility. Activities include sunset watching, photography, and relaxing in a serene coastal setting. As tourism grows slowly, Maluk Beach promises authentic Indonesian island vibes with stunning scenery and minimal development. Perfect for beach lovers, surfers, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path serenity on Sumbawa's exotic coastline.

Kelimutu National Park on Flores Island, Indonesia, captivates with its tri-colored crater lakes—one blue, one green, and one black—that mysteriously shift hues due to volcanic minerals and gas activity. Perched atop Mount Kelimutu, these surreal lakes create a breathtaking natural phenomenon, especially at sunrise when colors intensify against misty landscapes. The hike from Moni village rewards visitors with panoramic views of lush forests, volcanic terrain, and Flores' rugged beauty. Best visited during dry season for clear skies, the site draws adventurers for photography, nature exploration, and spiritual reflection—local legends tie the lakes to souls of the departed. Accessible via flights to Ende or Maumere, then a scenic drive, Kelimutu offers an otherworldly experience far from mainstream tourism. Combine with nearby Flores highlights like Komodo for a complete adventure. Ideal for hikers, photographers, and those seeking Indonesia's unique geological wonders in a serene, mystical setting.

Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is the world's largest volcanic lake, formed by a supervolcano eruption 74,000 years ago. Spanning 1,000+ square kilometers with Samosir Island at its heart, this UNESCO Global Geopark features serene waters, misty mountains, and traditional Batak culture. Visitors explore boat-shaped roofs, vibrant textiles, and ancient rituals in villages, while enjoying hot springs, waterfalls like Sipiso-Piso, and hiking viewpoints. Parapat and Tuk Tuk offer relaxed stays with lake views, fresh fish, and cultural immersion. Accessible from Medan (KNO airport), Lake Toba blends natural beauty with heritage—perfect for relaxation, photography, and cultural experiences. Ideal for families, couples, and adventurers seeking Sumatra's tranquil escape amid stunning volcanic

Bunaken Marine Park, off Manado in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a premier diving paradise within one of Indonesia's oldest protected marine areas. Famous for dramatic walls, vibrant coral gardens, and exceptional biodiversity, the park hosts turtles, reef sharks, dolphins, and schooling fish amid crystal-clear waters. Over 30 dive sites cater to all levels, from macro critters like nudibranchs to wide-angle spectacles. Nearby Siladen and Manado Tua add variety, with strong currents delivering thrilling drifts. Accessible from Manado (MDC airport), Bunaken offers resorts, liveaboards, and sustainable eco-tourism. Best dived year-round with peak visibility in dry season. Perfect for scuba enthusiasts seeking world-class underwater adventures in Indonesia's biodiverse north.

Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site between Sumbawa and Flores, protects the iconic Komodo dragon—the world's largest lizard—alongside rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Home to about 5,700 dragons, the park spans volcanic islands like Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, featuring savanna hills, white beaches, and pink sands. Spot dragons in natural habitats, hike dramatic landscapes, and dive/snorkel vibrant reefs teeming with turtles, manta rays, and sharks. Padar Island's panoramic viewpoint is a highlight. Accessible from Bali (DPS airport) via flight or boat to Labuan Bajo, the park offers trekking, wildlife safaris, and eco-adventures. Best visited dry season for optimal conditions. Ideal for nature lovers seeking prehistoric wonders and stunning scenery in Indonesia.

Mount Rinjani on Lombok, Indonesia, is a challenging trek to Indonesia's second-highest volcano at 3,726m. The multi-day adventure features steep ascents, Segara Anak crater lake, hot springs, and Gunung Barujari mini-volcano. Summit pushes reward with sunrise views over Bali and Lombok. Trails from Senaru or Sembalun offer cultural encounters with Sasak villages. Accessible via Lombok International (LOP), guided treks ensure safety during dry season (April–November). Ideal for experienced hikers seeking epic landscapes, volcanic wonders, and adventure in Indonesia's paradise island.

Kawah Ijen in East Java, Indonesia, enchants with electric-blue flames from burning sulfur gases at night and the world's largest acidic turquoise crater lake at sunrise. Midnight hikes reveal the surreal "blue fire" phenomenon, while dawn illuminates the vivid lake against volcanic rims. Sulfur miners carry heavy loads, adding a human element. Accessible from Banyuwangi, tours include gas masks for safety. Best in dry season for clear views. Perfect for adventurers seeking Indonesia's unique geological spectacle and mystical nighttime wonders.