For some people, the perfect holiday consists of going to popular tourist destinations, taking photos of interesting sites and landmarks in the area, then relaxing on the bus ride back to the hotel.

But there are others who seek a more active and challenging endeavor. Instead of typical tourist destinations, they rather go off the beaten path and engage in activities, though not necessarily extreme, that requires a certain level of boldness and curiosity.

If you’re one of those adventurous travelers, there are several local destinations that might satiate your needs. These destinations by no means are unpopular. However, the activities provided within each destination might not be suitable for your average tourists.

If you’re looking to do some challenging activities during your next holiday, consider these local destinations.

Namu Sira Sira is a dam located in Belinteng and Durian Lingga Village, Sei Bingai, North Sumatra. Like most large dams in Indonesia, Namu Sira Sira serves multiple functions. Aside from irrigation and fish cultivation, this 6,500 hectare dam is also used as a tourist attraction.

Having a wide area with diverse contours, Namu Sira Sira is able to accommodate different types of activities. One area is shallow enough to bathe in. Another one is deep enough to swim in. And, there are those that have strong enough streams and large enough rocks to make for challenging rafting routes.

Also read: 4 Local Destinations Fit for Culture Vultures

Unlike your typical tourist destinations, Namu Sira Sira doesn’t offer much in ways of spending the night. Instead of a hotel, you’re bound to be one with nature and sleep in a tent, under the stars - a perfect way to rest after a full day’s worth of adventure.

Not far from the capital city of Indonesia lies a natural destination called Curug Naga. “Curug” means “waterfall” in the Sundanese language. So, a lot of the activities provided in this particular destination are done in the water and stream.

Located in Megamendung, Bogor, Curug Naga consists of three waterfalls, namely Priuk, Naga, and Barong. Each waterfall has its own characteristics and level of difficulty to explore, which makes it perfect for those who love challenges.

To reach the waterfalls, you will have to river trek or body raft along the streams. Other activities you can do in the area include jungle trekking and cliff jumping. Operators in the area will provide the necessary safety equipment as well as guidance during each activity.

Mount Ijen is one of the most sought after destinations in East Java. Located at the border between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso, this active volcano has a height of 2,386 meters above sea level. One of its best features is the blue fire at Ijen Crater, which is a majestic natural wonder.

Getting there requires a long hike of around 3.4 kilometers from the starting point at Paltuding post. To be able to appreciate its beauty, the hiking route opens after midnight, at around 1 AM. From there, it'll take around 2 hours for you to reach your final destination.

Also read: 5 Exciting Open Trip Destinations to Consider from Traveloka

With a road that consists of sandy red soil that is rather slippery and inclined roads of around 40 degrees in some areas, finishing the hike will be a testament to your physical prowess. At the top of the crater, you won’t only get to see the blue fire, you can also see the sunrise at the break of dawn.

Though most of the tourism industry in Bali operates at the southside of the island, there are plenty of exciting destinations to explore in the north as well. One of them is Menjangan Island, which was named after the rare Javanese deers, or menjangan in the local tongue, that calls the 38 square kilometer island home.

You can, of course, relax and enjoy the blue sky and white sandy beach at Menjangan Island. But for you, adventurous types, snorkeling and diving off the coast might be more up to your speed. This secluded island has one of the most diverse marine life in the country. The water is crystal clear with plenty of coral reefs to explore and colorful marine species to see.

The island is also home to the West Bali National Park and a few temples, including Pura Gili Kencana, Agung Brahma Ireng, and the great pagoda of the Goddess Kwan Im.

Sumba is a beautiful island in the province of East Nusa Tenggara in eastern Indonesia. One of its main attractions is the Ratenggaro cultural village, where you can see traditional houses and unique stone graves, as well as enjoy the beautiful land and sea.

For adventurous travelers, Sumba has a vast plot of land to trek and a variety of interesting places to explore, such as the green hills of Wairinding, the Mau Hau hill, and Puru Kembera Savannah.

Also read: 7 Must-visit Destinations in Indonesia for Nature Lovers

Those who prefer activities in the water have plenty of destinations to choose from. You can trek the Tanggedu waterfalls, see the picturesque cliffs in Bwanna beach, and swim in the pristine water of Weekuri lake.