Indonesia's Forgotten Islands

Discover a forgotten world where pristine coral reefs, remote tropical islands and jungles filled with rare and endangered birds and wildlife, including the Orangutans of Camp Leakey, meet ancient customs and thrilling cultural exchanges on an authentic, 14-day expedition cruise through Indonesia and Borneo. Join Heritage Expeditions on this tropical island-hopping adventure, exploring well off traditional tourist routes and experiencing Southeast Asia’s most captivating and rarely-seen wonders. 

One of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, Indonesia is home to an incredible array of fauna and flora found nowhere else on Earth. Birdlife abounds in primaeval jungles as we search for endangered species, including the recently rediscovered Wetar Ground Dove, found exclusively on Wetar Island. 

Walk alongside Komodo Dragons and snorkel at the ‘underwater aquarium’ of Pink Beach on Komodo Island. A major highlight will be visiting Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo, and the world-renowned research facility and Orangutan rehabilitation site, Camp Leakey. Observe the playful intelligence of these iconic primates as they swing through the rainforest canopy and immerse yourself in Tanjung Puting National Park, home to Proboscis Monkeys, Tarsiers, Clouded Leopards, Sun Bears and more.

There is a wealth of underwater delights to discover as we snorkel some of the most biologically diverse seas in the world. Pristine beaches lead to captivating coral gardens where neon-lit fish swim among drop-offs, caves, and gardens of large barrel sponges, sea fans, and soft corals in the Savu and Banda Seas, as well as the Alor Strait. Marvel at the kaleidoscopic hues of Kelimutu’s mystical ‘boiling lakes’ on Flores Island and discover one of Indonesia’s hidden treasures in Satonda Island, home to Hawksbill Turtles. 

Comprising some 18,000 islands, this Southeast Asian archipelago also boasts a rich human history that stretches back almost 2 million years. Immerse yourself in ancient cultures as we visit Lembata Island, home to the Lamalerans, one of Indonesia’s last subsistence whaling communities and learn how they honour their ancestors through centuries-old hunting techniques. While on Alor Island, the Abui people still live by the same customs and practices of their ancestors. Experience the thrill of traditional Water Buffalo racing on Sumbawa Island and enjoy the unique culinary heritage of Kupang, indulging in the local speciality Se’i, Timorese smoked meat.

For botanists, birders, photographers, history and nature lovers alike, this is the ultimate expedition cruise of the hidden treasures of Southeast Asia. This expedition includes the option to join a sea kayaking excursion with an expert guide. Kayakers are rewarded with tranquil, tropical settings and are a source of fascination to the locals who often paddle their canoes out to join them and invite them back to their villages.

Excludes

Kayaking, all items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities. International/domestic flights, visas, extensions and travel insurance.