Indonesia

Landscape

Indonesia is an archipelago stretching across a large area between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Its islands include high volcanic mountains, broad lowlands and extensive coastal plains. They differ greatly in size, geology and distance from one another.

Java’s volcanic landscapes, including Mount Bromo, contrast with the reefs and steep-sided islands of Raja Ampat farther east. Large islands such as Sumatra, Borneo and New Guinea contain major river systems and forested interiors as well as developed coastal areas.

Climate & seasons

Lowland Indonesia is generally hot and humid. Higher elevations are cooler, and seasonal rainfall patterns differ across the widely dispersed islands.

Island ecosystems

Geographic separation has helped produce distinctive wildlife communities on different islands. Rainforest, mountain habitats, mangroves and coral reefs are all important. Volcanic activity and earthquakes also reflect Indonesia’s position along active tectonic boundaries.