Tucked away in Eastern Indonesia, North Maluku is a region that still feels like a secret. Once at the heart of the fabled Spice Islands, it’s a place where history, nature, and adventure collide. Whether you’re drawn by steaming volcanoes, pristine coral reefs, or the chance to explore untouched islands, North Maluku rewards curious travelers who look beyond Indonesia’s better-known hotspots.
The Heartbeat of Ternate
The Heartbeat of Ternate
Most journeys through North Maluku begin on Ternate Island, dominated by the ever-present Gamalama volcano. Here, colonial forts whisper stories of Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish influence, while spice plantations recall the centuries-old trade that once made these islands the center of global commerce.
Ternate City, the region’s bustling hub, offers comfortable accommodations and serves as the ideal base for further exploration. A visit to the Sultan’s Palace provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage, while surrounding villages reveal traditional ways of life.
If you’ve enjoyed exploring Ternate, you might also like our article on Yogyakarta’s royal heritage for another perspective on Indonesia’s living history.
Halmahera – The Land of Legends
Hidden Treasure of Halmahera
The largest of the North Maluku islands, Halmahera, is wild, diverse, and full of mystery. Dense rainforests hide unique bird species, and local lore speaks of ancestor spirits leaving giant footprints in the earth.
Adventurers come here to trek remote trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and meet communities that still live close to nature. For divers, Halmahera’s surrounding waters promise spectacular marine biodiversity, from colorful coral gardens to dramatic drop-offs.
For more wild island escapes, check out our guide to Raja Ampat—another Indonesian gem for divers.
Morotai – From War History to White Sands
Majestic Morotai Island
History buffs will find Morotai Island fascinating. Once a strategic base during World War II, it was the hiding place of the last Japanese soldier to surrender—nearly three decades after the war ended. Today, the island tells its wartime story through relics and small museums.
But Morotai is not just about the past. Its present is defined by incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities, where dugongs sometimes glide through seagrass beds and pristine reefs teem with life. Offshore, the Dodola Islands invite travelers to camp on their powdery white sands, connected by sandbars that appear and disappear with the tides.
If you love remote island life, you may also enjoy our feature on Sulawesi’s hidden treasures.
Diving with Walking Sharks and Volcanic Wonders
Few destinations can boast the sheer variety of underwater experiences found in North Maluku. Here, you might encounter the rare walking shark, a small nocturnal species that “walks” across the seabed. Nearby, adventurous divers can descend the slopes of Banua Wuhu, an active underwater volcano that sends bubbles streaming toward the surface.
For those who prefer calmer encounters, the coral walls and reefs rival Indonesia’s better-known diving meccas, yet remain far less crowded.
To compare with other marine adventures, read about Komodo’s diving experiences and see how North Maluku stacks up.
North Maluku Indonesia
Travel Tips for North Maluku
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When to Go: The dry season (October to March) offers the most reliable weather for diving, hiking, and exploring.
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Getting There: Fly to Ternate from Jakarta or Manado, then continue by boat or domestic flights to Halmahera or Morotai.
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What to Pack: Bring sturdy shoes for jungle trekking, reef-safe sunscreen for marine adventures, and a flexible mindset—travel here can be unpredictable but rewarding.
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Stay Local: Opt for homestays or eco-lodges where possible to support communities and enjoy authentic hospitality.
Why North Maluku Belongs on Your Travel Map
North Maluku is not about mass tourism—it’s about discovery. It’s where volcanoes dominate the skyline, where cultural traditions remain strong, and where the underwater world is still pristine. For travelers willing to step off the beaten path, these islands offer some of Indonesia’s richest and most rewarding adventures.
If you’re seeking a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in an authentic way, North Maluku Indonesia might just be your next great journey.
