Several times larger than Bali, Halmahera only briefly had a starring role on the world stage as a base for the Japanese and then the Americans in WWII. It’s a gloriously off-the-beaten-track location to end them all – there are almost no resorts or places to stay and half a million inhabitants are strung out throughout the sparsely populated island. The most incredible unblemished coral lies just offshore and around much of the island, where you’ll also find glorious diving spots. Inland birds of paradise and other avian life repay the efforts of birdwatching enthusiasts as well as the more casual bird spotters.
Villages are strung large around the coasts and the island has both Christian and Islamic communities, as well as internal migrants from Java. In this part of Indonesia, occupations are primarily found in the fishing and mining industries. In the north, indigenous people go about their traditional lives in the forest. The subsistence fishing villages of the coast are generally colourful, and the wooden houses characteristic of the Maluku islands are still very much in evidence.
Halmahera is as off-the-beaten-track as it is possible to get, but the persistence pays off for the curious and adventurous travellers.
Sulawesi Holiday Ideas:
Bali & South Sulawesi Explorer
Fly direct from the UK to Indonesia, uncovering the fascinating cultures and breathtaking scenery of both Bali and Sulawesi in two weeks.
Sulawesi Explorer
Discover the astounding wildlife, nature and culture of the amazing island of Sulawesi on this 18 day holiday.
Sulawesi & The Spice Islands
An extraordinary chance to explore several fascinating cultures, some incredible scenery and diverse native wildlife.
Contrasts of South Sulawesi And Bali
Think terrain, temples and tribes! Fascinating traditions, magnificent scenery: a journey of a lifetime.
