Ages
15-19
Social Causes
Saving the Ocean Reef and Sustainable Living
Highlights
Surf Camp, Snorkel and Dive in Crystal Clear Water, Hike a Volcano
Trip Pace
Moderate
Physical Level
Moderate to High
About this Trip
“The land of a thousand temples” boasts lush green jungles, aquamarine ocean, and unforgettable adventure
The ocean is calling and you must go! You will spend several days snorkeling, free diving, swimming, and enjoying some of the world’s most beautiful islands, water, and beaches. You’ll visit majestic Hindu temples, join the locals in their vibrant, green rice paddies, and soak in the unique culture of this country as you wander through colorful street markets. Explore incredible waterfalls, test your grit hiking a volcano, and spend a night sleeping under the stars. Finish your incredible adventure at a private surf camp! Yoga classes, surf coaching, the works! Fall in love with the kind, gentle, and vibrant people of these beautiful Indonesian islands.
Saving the reef will start to mean something personal to you as you see first-hand how the destruction of our oceans is affecting the daily lives of the local people. You’ll learn and volunteer with some of the frontline organizations that are fighting to keep our oceans alive.
Teen Service Opportunities In Indonesia
The world’s coral reefs are dying at an alarming rate
50-70% of the oxygen you breathe comes from the ocean. Yep, it’s true! We love trees, but it’s the ocean that is keeping you alive.
Coral reefs are also the foundation of the entire health and ecosystems of the ocean—without them, marine life cannot exist. And without marine life, we are in trouble; over half a billion people depend on reefs for food, income, and protection. As you volunteer, you will learn more about what you can do, even from home, to help save our reef and oceans.
Youth & Parent Experiences
Who Can Go On This Teen Trip?
All youth, ages 15-18, who commit to and follow the rules and safety standards of Travel For Youth can attend this trip.
Is Indonesia safe?
Yes! Safety is, by far, our number one priority when we choose a location for our trips. We are keenly aware of the intense trust that is placed in us to provide a safe and life-changing experience for your child. As parents of three children, we do not take that trust lightly. Because of this, we will never take your child to a place that we, as the founders, do not deem safe for our own small children, and that we have not PERSONALLY visited and vetted from top to bottom.
Indonesia is ranked #42 by the Global Peace Index which puts it above the United States in safety ratings. The two islands that we will be visiting have worldwide reputations for being a safe destination for women and solo travelers, with the most common issues being ATM skimming and petty theft. Violence against tourists is extremely rare.
The biggest safety risk in Indonesia comes from potential natural disasters due to their location on the Ring of Fire. Our trip leaders are trained extensively on what to do in case of natural disasters and we have several systems in place in the rare event that one occurs.
You can read more about our robust safety precautions here.
What is the food like?
Indonesian food is unique with strong flavors and spices and is also heavily influenced by Indian and Chinese cuisine. Most meals consist of rice, flavorful chicken, pork or seafood, cooked vegetables, and fresh fruits. Gluten allergies can be accommodated here, as well as dairy allergies.
What are the housing accommodations going to be?
Again, safety is our number one priority. When we consider new locations, we always go beforehand and scout out the safest, highest quality housing and neighborhoods available. We never stay in hostels and we personally go and vet every accommodation for cleanliness, location, safety, and privacy. In order to provide a more immersive cultural experience, and to better support and give back to the community we are visiting, we prioritize Airbnb’s or privately owned bed and breakfasts for the majority of our stay. We will also spend a few nights in a resort featuring overwater bungalows.
What can I do to prepare for my trip?
First and foremost, get a passport if you don’t already have one!
Next, keep your eye out for the information and resources that we will be sending you about your trip. The more you know and understand, the more this experience will mean to you and the more prepared you will be to make a meaningful difference.
You will spend several days in, or on, the ocean so being a confident swimmer is required. (Lifejackets will be available on boat tours). Please be prepared to ride a bike, walk for an hour total each day, and be ready to participate in some moderately difficult hikes.
Lastly, practice getting uncomfortable: try new foods, start conversations with people you don’t know, put away your phone for a few hours every day, etc. Traveling is exhilarating and life-changing, but it can also be full of moments that are new, hard, or uncomfortable. New people, new cultures, new languages, and new food can be a lot to take in at times. Everything you do to get ready now will make it that much easier. Just know that we’ll be there to walk you through all of it and help make the experience amazing!