Indonesian Backcountry

Today when traveling to Indonesia, you have to be careful. Although a magnificent country, featuring more than 13,000 of the most beautiful islands, keep in mind that current unrest has been targeted at western tourists.

Therefore, the government suggests you stay within areas deemed safe, avoid public gatherings, and avoid any type of demonstration. However, when with skilled guides, you will find that many of the backcountry areas of the country are still fine for traveling, which is why we wanted to discuss some of your possibilities.

First, there is Komodo and Rinca. Although the islands are small, they are wonderful. Nestled between Sumbawa and Flores, both islands are known for their non-human inhabitants, the Komodo dragon. Although the “dragons” are actually lizards, they are quite large, reaching up to almost 300 pounds. When tested or threatened, the Komodo dragon can be extremely vicious so you want to follow the rules set out by expert guides. Then on the island of Rinca, the Komodo dragon is not seen as often but you can enjoy other wildlife to include water buffalo, monkeys, bush turkeys, deer, and eagles.

The island of Flores is another place to consider where you will discover the villages of Jopu, Nggela, and Wolojita. Each of these villages are known for the Ikat sarongs and shawls. However, another village, Lamalera is a traditional whaling village where you can watch natives making harpoons. Keli Mutu is a gorgeous place to visit, which is actually a tricolor lake. There, you will notice the waters in three volcanic craters, which actually change color. Sometimes, the water is olive green, sometimes black, and most recently, a magnificent turquoise. However, in recent years, the waters were actually black and maroon.

Although no one is able to explain the change of color, the locals will tell you that the souls of the dead go to the lakes. Legend has it that the souls of the young people go to the green lake, which is warm while the older people’s souls go to the milky, turquoise waters. However, for thieves and murderers, their souls go to the black waters. If you head to the rim of the volcanic crater at dawn, just before the clouds begin to descend, you can see the lakes, whether by walking, in a jeep, or on horseback.

Next, you have the rugged country of Sulawesi. There, you can visit the small town of Rantepao, where pig breeding, rice farming, and raising water buffalo are an everyday way of life. For many years, this area of Indonesia was ignored but in recent years, it has captured the attention and hearts of visitors for the traditional houses, elaborate ceremonies, and ancient burial sites. You might consider a trip to Kalimantan where you will find popular images of European explorers and Dayak villages, where tattooed headhunters once lied. Finally, Irian Jaya is one of the world’s last wilderness areas, a region with rugged terrain, snowcapped mountains, mangrove swamps, and stunning jungle scenery.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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