Riau Islands Travel Guide
Discover the wonders of Riau Islands, Indonesia with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!
- A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Riau Islands, Indonesia
- Introduction to Riau Islands
- List of Places to Visit in Riau Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Riau Islands
- Best Things to Do in Riau Islands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Riau Islands
- Food and Drink Scene of Riau Islands
- Where to Stay in Riau Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Riau Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Riau Islands
- Best Time to Visit Riau Islands
- Do’s and Don’ts of Riau Islands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Riau Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Riau Islands
- Where to Go Next from Riau Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Riau Islands, Indonesia
Riau Islands is a hidden gem located in Sumatra, Indonesia. It is home to a group of islands that boast stunning scenery, natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and historical significance. This travel guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview of Riau Islands, including where to stay, things to do, where to eat, and much more!
Introduction to Riau Islands
Riau Islands is a province in the northern part of Sumatra, Indonesia. It is a cluster of 3,200 islands that are located between the Malacca Strait and the South China Sea. The islands each have their unique natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and mesmerizing beaches, that offer visitors with a new and enriching experience. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Riau Islands has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Riau Islands
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Melayu Kingdom Palace
The Melayu Kingdom Palace is a historical landmark located on Penyengat Island. It was built in the 18th century and is now a museum that displays an impressive collection of historical artifacts from the kingdom. You should consider visiting this place to learn about Indonesia’s royal heritage.
- Penyengat Island
Penyengat Island is an excellent place to learn about the rich history of Riau Islands. This small island used to be the center of the Melayu Sultanate, and it is home to many historical landmarks, including the Melayu Kingdom Palace and the Tomb of Raja Ali Haji.
Natural Attractions of Riau Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Bawah Reserve
Bawah Reserve is an excellent vacation spot for those who love nature and want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The island is a natural reserve that boasts crystal clear waters, verdant forests, and a rich marine ecosystem.
- Anambas Islands
The Anambas Islands are a group of islands in Riau Island that are known for their lush green hills, azure blue waters, and stunning coral reefs. You can explore these islands by renting a boat or participating in a snorkeling adventure to see the diverse marine life below.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Riau Islands
- Batam Island
Batam Island is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The island’s lush forests and scenic hills are perfect for hiking and biking trails that run across the island.
- Karimun Island
Karimun Island is a small island that offers some of the best biking routes. Biking around the island will allow you to take in the beautiful scenery, learn about the island’s history and culture, and enjoy the island’s unique charm.
Best Things to Do in Riau Islands: Activities and Tours
- Scuba Diving
Riau Islands is known for its vibrant underwater world and is one of Asia’s most popular scuba diving destinations. The islands offer clear waters, rich marine life, and unparalleled diving experience.
- Island Hopping
Island hopping is an activity that you must experience while in Riau Islands. With over 3,000 islands, you will have plenty of islands to explore, each with its unique charm.
Week-Long Itinerary for Riau Islands
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Melayu Kingdom Palace |
| Day 2 | Explore Penyengat Island |
| Day 3 | Go trekking on Batam Island |
| Day 4 | Explore the Anambas Islands by boat |
| Day 5 | Scuba diving on Bawah Reserve |
| Day 6 | Island hopping to Riau Islands’ many islands |
| Day 7 | Relax on one of Riau Islands’ pristine beaches |
Food and Drink Scene of Riau Islands
Must-Try Dishes
- Otak-Otak
Otak-Otak is a popular traditional Indonesian delicacy made of freshwater fish and exotic spices. Expect to find them on the streets of the nearby towns.
- Lontong
Lontong is a traditional dish made of rice rolls that provide a delicious blend of spices. It’s the best thing you can get when you’re looking for a quick, filling meal.
Local Beverages
- Teh Botol
Teh Botol is a sweet drink made from Indonesian tea. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your meal or as a refreshment on a hot day.
- Bintang Beer
Bintang Beer is an Indonesian beer that pairs well with local Indonesian cuisine.
Where to Stay in Riau Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Montigo Resorts, Nongsa
Montigo Resorts is a luxurious resort located on Batam Island. The property offers a stunning view of the sea and a vast array of activities to enjoy, from infinity pool to beachfront activities.
- Harris Hotel Batam Centre
Harris Hotel is one of the most affordable places to stay in Batam. It offers clean and spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and dining options.
What to Buy in Riau Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Kain Batik
Kain Batik is a traditional fabric from Riau Islands that you can find in several markets. It is commonly used as a garment or as decoration.
- Lukisan Kaca
Lukisan Kaca is a unique hand-painted glass artwork that showcases traditional Indonesian designs. They make for a beautiful and authentic souvenir to take back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Riau Islands
The primary religion in Riau Islands is Islam. As such, it is essential to dress conservatively while visiting religious sites, covering the head and shoulders for women, and wearing long pants and long sleeves for men.
Best Time to Visit Riau Islands
The best time to visit Riau Islands for outdoor activities is between May and October, when the weather is dry and sunny.
Do’s and Don’ts of Riau Islands
Do:
- Respect the local culture and dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
- Carry enough water, especially if you plan on hiking or biking.
- Try the local cuisine and learn more about the unique Indonesian flavors.
Don’t:
- Litter. Make sure to dispose of trash properly and keep the environment clean.
- Smoke in public areas or on beaches as it is prohibited by law.
- Do not consume alcohol in public areas as it is also illegal.
Safety and Health
Safety in Riau Islands
Like any other destination, it’s essential to take safety precautions while visiting Riau Islands. Always stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night and do not venture into remote areas.
Health in Riau Islands
Prior to your trip, it is advisable to get vaccinated and consult with your healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. Drink only bottled water and be cautious when trying new foods.
Getting to Riau Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Riau Islands is accessible via air and sea transportation.
Airports Near Riau Islands
The nearest air transportation can be accessed by Batam’s Hang Nadim International Airport and Raja Haji Fisabilillah International Airport in Tanjungpinang, Bintan.
Bus Stations Near Riau Islands
Bus stations offering direct connections to Riau Islands are rare, but buses passing through Riau Islands can be boarded from Sumatra, and Singapore.
Other Options
Travellers from Singapore can make their way to Riau Island from Singapore’s Harbourfront (Vivo City), where they’ll find plenty of boats and ferries that ply the short distance.
How to Get Around in Riau Islands
Public transportation such as taxis and buses are available in Riau Islands, though it may be more convenient to rent a car or scooter to explore the islands.
Where to Go Next from Riau Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Nearby destinations include Bintan and Batam islands. Explore the numerous historical landmarks, natural attractions, and scenic views in these nearby destinations.
Conclusion
Riau Island in Indonesia is a captivating destination that boasts beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and a rich culture. From island hopping and scuba diving to exploring cultural landmarks and enjoying the local cuisine, there’s always something to discover in Riau Islands. This comprehensive travel guide provides all the necessary information to make your trip to Riau Islands a memorable one!
