Best for: Volcanic vistas, sprawling temples & lunar landscapes 

Java doesn’t necessarily offer the most relaxing introduction to Indonesia. Flying into the capital of Jakarta or the less frenetic Yogyakarta to the East will plunge travellers into the lively bustle of street markets, labyrinthine lanes and a charming jumble of cultures and architecture. For anyone who wants to throw themselves into the unrelentingly friendly culture it’s the perfect Indonesian island to start with. 

As much as I was unexpectedly enchanted by the cities, I was equally unprepared for just how spectacular the scenic landscapes and monumental temples would be. A visit to the Buddhist temple of Borobudur - a pyramid of bell-shaped stupas housing Buddha statues – was one of the most unique and memorable temples I've ever visited. Another unforgettable highlight was watching the sun rise above Mount Bromo as it sat in a lake of morning mist that slowly rolled across the plateau. 

I’d thought I might want to rush across this lesser-known Indonesian island to reach its celebrity neighbour of Bali. As it turned out memories of Java are some of my most cherished.

Best for: Beaches, boutiques and picturesque rice paddy terraces

Bali perhaps needs less of an introduction. Beaches, temples, colourful markets, spa retreats and stunning scenery are all within easy reach. To the south enjoy luxury resorts sat along palm-fringed beaches. Head to the lush interior for monkey-strewn temples, traditional villages and lush volcanic scenery. On the west coast discover sleepy fishing villages and in the north enjoy low-key black sand beaches. My memories of Bali are a rose-tinted haze of winding through terraced rice paddies, navigating the tangled sprawls of street markets and sipping local beers in beachside restaurants.

Best for: Quiet beaches, trekking and hidden waterfalls

To Bali’s east lies the laidback island of Lombok. Once only really known as a surfer’s paradise, Lombok has started growing in popularity due to its quiet beaches, trekking opportunities and hidden waterfalls. I stayed on Senggigi beach which probably offers the most dining choices from upscale restaurants to local street vendors, but if it’s peace and quiet you’re after try heading to the volcanic sand beach of Mangsit or the dramatically backdropped Sire beach.

Best for: Unique wildlife, pink beaches and snorkelling

Komodo Island is just one of many islands in Indonesia that make up the incredible Komodo National Park; home to the world’s largest lizard; the Komodo dragon. Best accessed by boat from Flores Island, visitors can expect an early start as they head out in search of this near-mythical creature. As you trek across the island’s spectacular landscape keep your eyes peeled for wild pigs, buffalos and colourful birdlife as well as the fascinating Komodo. Not only are the islands of the National Park fantastic for wildlife spotting, they also offer incredible beaches such as Rinca's striking pink beach.

Best for: Laidback island life & snorkelling

Just off the coast of Lombok lie the tiny car-free Gili Islands. Boasting powdery white sands and swaying coconut palms surrounded by azure waters renowned for excellent snorkelling and diving. Gili Trawangan (often referred to as Gili T) offers a lively beach front scene with plenty of dining options and nightlife, whilst Gili Meno offers a quieter laid-back feel. You can walk or cycle around both islands in a matter of hours, although you might opt to use one of the quaint horse-drawn carriages that wait at the side of the island’s sandy ‘ring road’.

Best for: Verdant scenery, local villages & wild horses

Quite different to Indonesia’s volcanic islands, Sumba’s verdant forests creep so close to the shore that they seem to blend with the emerald waters. Grass-roofed villages dot the hills and wild horses frequent the white-sand beaches. And if you don’t want to share the sea with the local wildlife head inland for hidden swimming spots and waterfalls. This is one of the best Indonesian islands for off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Best for: Nature, adventure & stunning lake scenery

If it’s adventure and wildlife you’re after then Sumatra is the Indonesian island for you. Brimming with natural beauty the island is full of magnificent lake scenery, unique Batak architecture and undulating volcanic hills.

Head out in search of wild orangutans in Bukit Lawang and stay in lodges only accessible via a rope suspension bridge. For anyone looking for a unique nature experience in one of Indonesia’s lesser visited islands, this is the one for you.