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Discover Mother Nature at These 6 UNESCO Global Geoparks in Indonesia

 

Have you ever experienced a trip to Indonesia's geoparks? If you haven't, you're missing out! Indonesia's geoparks are blessed with stunning landscapes. All of which offer different panoramic backdrops, from the hilly terrain to the tropical sea view. Many of these destinations have also been recognized as UNESCO Global Geoparks. Currently, there are 6 sites in the archipelago to have achieved this recognition. Let's explore these destinations and find out why they're being acknowledged worldwide!

Here are 6 UNESCO Global Geoparks to explore in Indonesia.

1. Toba Caldera, North Sumatera


One of the latest additions to the UNESCO Global Geopark is Toba Caldera North Sumatra. Showcasing a refreshing view of Lake Toba and rolling hills, this site offers more than just breathtaking sceneries. You can learn how the majestic Lake Toba was formed or the origins of  Samosir Island . There's even an indoor videotron, where you can watch an exciting video about the geopark itself. 

If you want to add adventure to your trip, we suggest you go to the attractions nearby. North of this geopark lies Sipiso Piso-Tongging Waterfall. Stroll along the pathways and absorb the breeze of the forests. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures here, too!

2. Belitong, Bangka Belitung Islands

Sight a stunning granite cliff view at Belitong Geopark in Bangka-Belitung Islands Province. With a land area of 4,800 square km, this natural site is home to about 566 flora and around 105 fauna species. The geosite offers a diverse ecosystem, from  coastal sides to lush mangrove forest. Take on an exploration of the vast habitats and sight Mother Earth up close!

One site in this geopark is Juru Sebrang, with its white sandy coasts and sea pines. The tracking path leads to the mangrove forest and traditional fishing attractions! You can also experience village tourism with a visit to Terong Village. This environmental conservation geosite focuses on agrotourism. Take some time here to learn about the daily life of local communities.

3. Ciletuh, West Java

aerial sunset view of Palapang beach at Ciletuh Geopark, West Java

Who’s up for a road trip to Ciletuh Geopark, Sukabumi? Say yes, and you'll experience a one of a kind adventure! This hidden gem offers dense foliage all around. Start the journey with a morning trek to Puncak Derma. Then go sightseeing at Curug Dogdog or Dogdog Waterfall, just 1.5 km from Puncak Derma. The water streams here are a little rocky, so be careful when walking. 

Once you're done exploring, get a taste of West Javanese cuisines for lunch, like nasi uduk ungu. A rice delicacy with a touch of natural purple coloring. There are plenty of restaurants near the area that serve delicious Indonesian menus, too! Then during golden hour, you can glimpse the sunset, right at Palangpang Beach. A thrilling trip indeed, don't you think?

4. Mount Sewu, Yogyakarta

stunning sunset at Mount Sewu Geopark Yogyakarta

Imagine a breathtaking karst landscape in the land of Java, dominated by limestones. That's the sight you'll get when you visit Mount Sewu UNESCO Global Geopark in Yogyakarta. View the mountainous terrain with limestone hills across the site. It's the perfect spot for some out-of-this-world sceneries!

The geosite, also known as Gunung Sewu, offers various educational programs to discover its surrounding nature. Learn about the geology and culture that form such a unique identity of the village. You can do this in Gunung Sewu Etalase. It's a chance for you to cultivate the local area of this town while also having fun!

5. Mount Batur, Bali

scenic view of sunrise on top of Mount Batur Bali

Mount Batur UNESCO Global Geopark is one of Indonesia's most famous geosite attractions. It covers a vast area of 370.5 square km, offering the beauty of Payung Hill and Lake Batur. Situated in Bali, the landscape is surrounded by phenomenal caldera walls and volcanic panorama, an area filled with flora and fauna. There's plenty of wildlife to see here! 

Though the geopark is known for being a conservation center of different animals and plants, it has also helped local economies flourish through sustainable tourism. UNESCO Global Geopark has created an initiative of "School to Geopark", offering an educational site for schools worldwide. In the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark Museum, you can learn a combination of its geology and biology. Even get an understanding of how the area was formed. All of these programs assist in the communities to grow and develop.

6. Mount Rinjani, West Nusa Tenggara

aerial shot of waterfall at Rinjani Geopark Lombok West Nusa Tenggara

A majestic volcano that towers over the island of Lombok is Mount Rinjani. Not only recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, but it's also known as Indonesia's second-highest mountain with 3,726 meters in height! A popular attraction in Mount Rinjani is its Ring of Fire. It holds an essential spiritual meaning within the local communities. Learn its legends and tales as you explore this vast geosite. At the slope of this site, you can observe the lush forest and refreshing sceneries of Mother Nature.

Thrill-seekers can also experience a trekking trip, viewing Crater Lake, Sembalun Lawang, Sendang Gile, and Tiu Kelep Waterfall. This usually takes up to three days to complete. Even though it might be a tiring journey, the fantastic encounters you can see will be memorable!

Many tourists love traveling to Indonesia's UNESCO Global Geoparks for their sightseeing greatness, fun-filled adventure, and wildlife encounters. Regardless of the reason, anyone who has experienced a trip to these natural attractions can tell you -- it is indeed an awe-inspiring journey!

When you decide to plan a trip to these geoparks, be sure to keep in mind the CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability) health protocols. This means always washing your hands, keeping your mask on at all times, and keeping your physical distance.