Understand

"Step into the forgotten island of Run, a remote and fragmented piece of land that lies in the backwaters of the East Indies. Separated by over 600 miles of ocean from its nearest land mass, Australia, this tiny rock of insignificance has been erased from most maps today. However, centuries ago, Run was the talk of the world, a place of astonishing wealth that made Eldorado's treasures pale in comparison. Picture a mountainous backbone draped in a forest of willowy trees, emanating an exquisite fragrance. These trees, resembling laurel, boasted bell-shaped flowers and yielded a succulent, lemon yellow fruit. The botanists dubbed them Myristica fragrans, while the pragmatic English merchants called them nutmeg." - Extract from 'Nathaniel's Nutmeg' by Giles Milton, 1999 Hodder and Stoughton.

Get in

Planning a trip to Banda Neira, the gateway to Run Island? Here are a few options for getting there: 1. Express Bahari fast boat: The easiest and most convenient way is to take the Express Bahari fast boat from Tulehu Harbor. This boat departs from Tulehu Harbor every Tuesday and Saturday at 09.00 WIT, with a return journey on Wednesday and Sunday at the same time. The journey takes approximately six to seven hours, and the ticket prices range from IDR 410,000 to VIP 650,000. You can purchase the tickets directly at the port window on the day of departure. Please note that this boat can accommodate around 300 passengers. 2. PELNI Ship: Another alternative is to ride a PELNI Ship, such as the Nggapulu Ship or Leuser Ship. The ship's timetable and ticket reservations can be accessed on the Pelni website or by contacting Pelni's official contact at 021-162. The economy class ticket from Ambon to Banda Neira by Leuser Ship is valued at Rp. 105,000 per person, and the journey takes around 10-12 hours. Passengers on the PELNI Ship also receive breakfast and lunch allotments. However, it's important to note that the facilities on the PELNI Ship may not be as luxurious as other options. 3. SusiAir flights: While there were previously flights operated by SusiAir, it's advised to recheck with locals as the latest information suggests that SusiAir may no longer operate. 4. Aviastar flights: If you prefer to travel by plane, Aviastar is the only airline that serves the Ambon - Bandaneira route. Aviastar operates small aircraft with a capacity of less than 20 seats. The flights are available three times a week, specifically on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The flight from Ambon to Banda Neira takes only about 45 minutes. However, it's important to reconfirm this information, as it was last updated in 2017. Please keep in mind that these transportation options will take you to Banda Neira, the closest point to Run Island. From Banda Neira, you will need to charter a boat to reach Run Island and explore its natural beauty and historical significance.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing