North Maluku is a remote province in eastern Indonesia, in Southeast Asia. Its landscapes are dramatic and volcanic, and much of its appeal lies in how little it has been developed. For visitors who want to see a quieter part of the archipelago, it offers a very different experience from the busier islands to the west.
Volcanoes and islands
The most striking feature here is the active Gamalama volcano on Ternate island. Its presence shapes the scenery and the life of the island, and views of the peak are a reminder of the forces that built this part of Indonesia. Ternate was once at the centre of the global clove trade, and that history still sits behind the town and its surroundings.
Diving and the sea
The province is known for its marine parks, which protect coral reefs and the wide variety of sea life that lives among them. Divers come for the chance to explore reefs that remain largely untouched. If underwater scenery is a priority, this is one of the reasons to plan a trip here.
History and culture
North Maluku also carries the legacy of its sultanates, whose history runs through the islands and their towns. Visitors interested in the past will find it woven into the landscape, giving a visit more depth than the scenery alone.
North Maluku suits travellers who value nature and history over large resorts and crowds. Because it is remote, it takes some planning to reach, and it rewards those who are prepared to make the journey.
