Understand

Journey to the enchanting Wakatobi National Park, a marine paradise nestled in the turquoise waters of South East Sulawesi, Indonesia. This breathtaking marine national park has captivated the hearts of divers around the world, earning its reputation as one of the most coveted dive sites on the planet. Its name, an acronym for the four main Tukangbesi Islands - Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko - is a testament to the diverse and stunning underwater landscapes awaiting explorers. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and underwater caves that hold secrets waiting to be discovered. Since 2005, this idyllic paradise has been marked as a potential World Heritage Site, further cementing its status as a must-visit destination for divers and nature lovers alike.

Get in

Wakatobi, a mesmerizing destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty, offers various ways to reach this tropical paradise. The most common starting point is Kendari, where you can embark on a scenic boat or plane journey to arrive at Wangi-Wangi, the main island of Wakatobi. Wings Air, a subsidiary of Lion Air, introduced the first commercial flight to Wakatobi, providing travelers with an exciting option to reach the island. If you've made arrangements with a resort, a warm welcome awaits you upon arrival. Alternatively, transportation options are available at the airport, including taxis or ojeks (motorcycle taxis) to take you on a thrilling thirty-minute ride to the town. For an authentic local experience, consider hopping on a slow boat from Bau-Bau, offering an overnight journey of around nine hours to Pulau Wangi-Wangi, the nearest island in Wakatobi. For a quicker journey, the Cantika fast boat departs from Bau-Bau, reaching Pulau Wangi-Wangi in just four hours, before continuing its voyage to Pulau Kaledupa and Pulau Tomia. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Bau-Bau, a charming city that serves as the headquarters of Wakatobi National Park. With its 16th-century fort, picturesque white-sand beaches, and stunning coral snorkeling spots, Bau-Bau offers a few days of memorable experiences. Make sure to check the schedule and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey between the islands. Divers seeking an exclusive experience might consider the chartered flights arranged by the renowned Wakatobi Resort from Bali. However, keep in mind that these chartered flights are not a requirement to enjoy the diving paradise of Pulau Tomia. There are plenty of options available to suit every traveler's preferences and budget when it comes to visiting Wakatobi.

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