As if Indonesia wasn’t enough, nature gave birth to The Spice Islands, an archipelagic paradise on earth. While you’re there, you’ll realise that this isn’t simply another great spot for motoring about.
“Jaziratul Muluk” is the Arabic word that translates to “Country of the Kings” for the Maluku archipelago. It was formerly the only spot in the globe where precious spices like nutmeg and clove could be found. As a result, the six clusters of islands together known as “The Spice Islands” earned their name.
The Spice Islands are also home to active volcanoes, palm-lined beaches, and some of the best coral reefs in the world. To see the Spice Islands, a cruise is the best way to go about it. The only way to see everything that these islands have to offer is by boat. Here are the must-see destinations on your Spice Islands cruise.
In other words, Seram is an island on Pulao Seram.
Pulau Seram, the biggest of the Spice Islands, is a veritable playground.
Ora Beach is the best beach on the island, and it’s the first one you should visit. Ora Beach, an unspoilt tropical paradise, is difficult to get to but worth the effort. For hiking, the area is surrounded by mountains covered in tropical vegetation, which provide stunning views. It’s a peaceful spot where you can only hear waves and jungle birds. As a result of its crystal-clear waters and bright collar reefs, Ora Beach is a popular diving destination.
The Saggar Bedoya Seram Museum is a great place to visit after a day at Ora Beach. It tells you about the hardships that the Spice Islands went through as the center of the world’s spice trade. The Lomeli Waterfall, located on the island’s west coast, is a stunning sight.
You may also go hiking in Manuela National Park and eat fresh Durian while you’re in Seram. Sawai is a charming town in Masha where you may stroll among the caverns of Goa Akashi or take a hike through Sawai. You may savor the island’s delicacies and seafood, as well as swim in the crystal-clear seas.
The Banda Islands.
location. Gunung Api, an active volcano on the island of Pulau Nailaka, may be climbed to the peak for a stunning dawn view and sunbathing on the best white beaches.
There is no better snorkelling spot in Indonesia than Indonesia’s band of islands known as Banda Api. Since 1988, coral reefs have begun forming on the submerged lava floors. A diving experience in the waters of Hatta Island will be one you’ll never forget, so make the most of your time there.
Fort Belgica, a 1611 star fort built atop Benteng Nassau in the Banda Islands, is also a renowned tourist attraction. Ask the key-holder for permission to go inside and learn about the Banda Islands and their massacre.
Around 300 years ago, Sun Tian Kong Temple was established to commemorate historic Chinese engagement in the spice trade. It is now in ruins, but it still offers stunning views, making it a must-see on the islands.
Rumah Budaya Museum is a great place to learn about the Dutch colonisation of the Banda Islands.
City of Ambon
Ambon City, the capital of the Spice Islands, is one of the most fascinating places you’ll ever visit. Ambon is a must-see for everyone who enjoys a good beach and a good history lesson.
Before doing anything else, have a look around Ambon’s traditional marketplaces to get a feel for the city’s vibe and culture firsthand. Spices, seafood, and exotic fruits and vegetables are all available for purchase.
Visiting the three forts of Ambon will not give you a proper impression of the whiteout. Even if you’re not a history buff, the architecture of Portuguese-built Fort Victoria will win you over. Beautifully conserved paintings and statues, as well as a breathtaking view of Ambon at twilight, contribute to the place’s ethereal atmosphere. The cannon at Fort Ferengi and the stunning ocean views from Fort Amsterdam are other must-sees.
Liang Beach, Indonesia’s nicest beach, is where Ambon got the moniker “Bali of East Indonesia” because of its popularity as a tourist destination. Try rujak on Natsepa Beach and the Hollow Cliff at Pantai Pintu Kota Beach.