Destinations
Komodo National Park
Known for its famous dragons, the Komodo National Park comprises 29 islands including the most magical ones of Komodo, Padar and Rinca. A source of inspiration for many fantasy movies, the wild Jurassic landscapes will take your breath away. The scenery is spine-tingling, with unbelievably beautiful contours and colors on both land and sea, and an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna.
Diving lovers, you will be enchanted by the rich underwater sea-life, with colorful corals and fish, gentle sea turtles and groups of giant manta rays that weave and turn gracefully through the water. Expect the sun to shine non-stop from May to October when the seas are particularly bright and transparent, producing white sandbanks surrounded by shimmering turquoise blue waters. A pure delight for the eyes.
Raja Ampat
Located at the tip of Indonesian West Papua, Raja Ampat is currently called the last paradise on earth. It is a feast for the eyes and the soul, with its spectacular scenery both above and below water. The archipelago counts over 1,500 tiny limestone islands. Nature is at its best here, with thick jungle growing on these rocks, which sprout out of the deep blue sea.
Raja Ampat is without any doubt one of the shining jewels in the crown of Indonesia. Diving enthusiasts are captivated by the incredible diversity of the marine life here, an area that is almost totally protected. Feast your eyes on the corals, sea turtles, manta rays, barracudas, tunas, and sharks. Giant sea clams can be found in only a meter of water just offshore from the beautiful villages of the gracious local inhabitants.
Banda Sea & The Ring of Fire
Located in the Maluku region, the Banda Sea is the deepest part of the Indonesian seas, falling away to a depth of 8000m. A circle of volcanoes emerging from the sea gave it the famous name of The Ring of Fire. At its heart are the famous Banda Islands, also called the Spice Islands, where countless battles were fought over the centuries to gain control of the trade in nutmeg and mace. Visits round the fortress, the perfect natural harbour and the plantations are a must.
A tropical paradise for divers and snorkelers, the Banda Sea is the home to giant sponges, elusive hammerhead sharks, large pelagics and rainbow-colored reefs. Best explored in October-November or April. Each of these remote islands has a unique bio- environment with large sea bird colonies, rumbling active volcanoes and concentrations of sea snakes. You will also have time to visit the remote villages of the local fishermen and find out more about the centuries’ old spice-growing on the island.
Sunda Island
The Sunda Islands are part of the Malay Archipelago, a long chain of volcanic islands stretching from east to west, from Timor to the Flores, creating dozens of narrow straits where colorful villages decorate these protected shores. Visiting these small islands is an excellent option if you enjoy meeting local villagers and becoming acquainted with their lifestyle and traditions. The local men are famous for their skilled fishing techniques and the women are experts at weaving colorful scarves and sarongs.
During your journey, look up at the smoking peaks of the volcanic islands. Then, look down and admire the impressive currents, sparkling crystal-clear turquoise water and fabulously rich marine life. The Sunda Islands are an absolute delight for travelers who want an adventure holiday and yet an intimate and sentimental journey into lands and cultures unknown.
