20 Great Island Adventures

By Contributor - May 30, 2016
  • Alila Purnama at anchor in Komodo National Park.

    Alila Purnama at anchor in Komodo National Park.

  • Ocean views from Tasmania's Three Capes Track.

    Ocean views from Tasmania's Three Capes Track.

  • A Korowai hunter from West Papua.

    A Korowai hunter from West Papua.

  • On safari in Sri Lanka's Yala National Park.

    On safari in Sri Lanka's Yala National Park.

  • Snorkeling with a whale shark.

    Snorkeling with a whale shark.

  • The wide-eyed tarsiers of Bohol.

    The wide-eyed tarsiers of Bohol.

  • Yakushima's mossy, mystical forests.

    Yakushima's mossy, mystical forests.

  • At the foot of Java's Mount Bromo.

    At the foot of Java's Mount Bromo.

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ON FOOT

1. Mulu World Heritage Area, Malaysia

The Trip Caving and trekking through Borneo’s geological wonders. Why Rain forest exploits await in this exceptionally biodiverse 53,800-hectare national park, with networks of trails and the world’s longest canopy walk hanging 20 meters above the forest floor. In-park accommodations come best at the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, but multi-day treks to the limestone Pinnacles or the summit of Mount Mulu are worth some time away from the base. Don’t Miss An overnight caving trip to Sarawak Chamber, the second-largest known cave chamber in the world.

60-85/792-300; entrance pass for US$8

 

2. Tasmania, Australia

The Trip A four-day trek along the Three Capes Track. Why Recently opened by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, this 46-kilometer walking trail traces the sea cliffs and coastal heath of Tasman National Park. A boat trip from Port Arthur and comfortable communal cabins are all part of the experience. Better still, you’ll have the stunning scenery mostly to yourself: no more than 48 walkers are allowed on the track at any time. Don’t Miss Scaling the Blade at Cape Pillar. From the top of this vertiginous outcrop, the views extend over Tasman Island to the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean.

61-1300/827-727; from US$382 per person

 

3. Yakushima Island, Japan

The Trip Exploring the World Heritage–listed wilderness of this southern Japanese island from the comfort of Sankara Hotel & Spa. Why After a day’s hiking through forests of old-growth cedars and close encounters with red-bottomed macaques, retreat to the Sankara to savor sea views, herbal massages, and fine French cuisine with foraged ingredients. Don’t Miss Nighttime viewings of loggerhead turtles, which nest on Yakushima’s beaches during June and July.

81-997/473-488; doubles from US$475

 

4. East Java, Indonesia

The Trip Summit a trio of Indonesia’s most impressive volcanoes. Why From the bright blue acidic crater lake atop Mount Ijen to a sunrise seen from the peaks of Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru and coffee enjoyed at plateau plantations in between, going inland to conquer Java’s three most famous volcanoes is worth leaving the beach behind. Remote Lands is the operator to go with, tailoring tours to fit guests’ travel itineraries and arranging stays at the best accommodations along the way. Don’t Miss A rijsttafel rice feast at Hotel Tugu on the night spent in Malang.

1-646/415-8092; from US$310 
per person per day

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