Know your experience level, interests and physical capabilities and select a level of adventure you'll be comfortable with. "Carstens Pyramid, for example, takes 10 days with ropes, pitons and all the rest of the tech gear--there is a permanent ice cap on the top," says Gow. "There are also many much easier treks you can do." Many treks focus on particular aspects such as wildlife, birdwatching, indigenous culture, volcano climbs, or snorkeling. Some guide companies offer custom treks.
Certain items will be handy on almost any trek. Here's a basic list suggested by Indira Nilam Sari, programmer at Indonesia Trekking: backpack, trekking shoes, raincoat, field hat, water canteen, walking stick, insect repellent, anti-malaria drugs, camera, spare batteries and personal medications. Sari recommends packing sturdy field clothes like cargo pants, flannel shirt, jacket and boots.
You will probably start your trip from a hotel or guest house, but sleep in tents or in local homes out in the field. Tents, trail pads and sleeping bags are usually provided by the trekking company unless you prefer to bring your own equipment. A hammock and mosquito netting offer another alternative--choose a model that is lightweight and easy to pack.
There are no direct flights from the U. S. to Indonesia; you'll need to book a flight to another destination such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore or Malaysia. Experts at Indonesia Trekking recommend travelers from the East Coast consider traveling via either Frankfurt or Amsterdam. Indonesia's international airports are located in Jakarta and Bali.
You will need a passport valid for at least the next six months and proof of your intent to leave (return tickets, etc.). United States citizens are included in Indonesia's Visa On Arrival program; you'll automatically receive a free 30-day visa.
