Togian Islands
The Togian Islands are an archipelago situated in the Gulf of Tomini, off the coast of Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. They are known for their remote beauty, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Reaching the Togian Islands can be a bit of an adventure due to their remote location, but here is a general outline of how you can get there:
1. Fly to Sulawesi:
- Most travelers start by flying to one of the main cities in Sulawesi. The two primary options are:
- Makassar (Hasanuddin International Airport - UPG): This airport has extensive domestic connections and some international flights.
- Palu (Mutiara SIS Al-Jufrie Airport - PLW): A smaller airport with primarily domestic flights.
2. Fly or Travel Overland to Ampana or Gorontalo:
- Ampana:
- You can take a domestic flight from Makassar or Palu to Ampana (Tanjung Api Airport).
- Alternatively, overland travel by bus from Palu to Ampana is an option, taking approximately 8-10 hours.
- Gorontalo:
- Fly to Gorontalo (Jalaluddin Airport) from Makassar or Jakarta.
- If you choose this option, note that the boat trip from Gorontalo to the Togian Islands is generally longer than from Ampana.
3. Boat Transfer to the Togian Islands:
- From Ampana:
- Daily public ferries and private boats offer service to Wakai, the main port in the Togian Islands. The ferry trip typically takes 4-5 hours.
- From Gorontalo:
- There are overnight ferries (e.g., KM Tuna Tomini) that travel to Wakai. The journey takes approximately 12 to 14 hours. These ferries generally run a few times a week, so check the schedule in advance.
4. Local Transportation in the Togian Islands:
- Upon arrival in Wakai, you may need to arrange local boat transfers to your specific destination within the Togian Islands, such as Kadidiri, Bomba, or Malenge. Boats can often be hired privately, or ask your accommodation for transfer assistance.
Tips:
- Advanced Planning: Given the infrequent schedules of some services, it is wise to plan your trip in advance, including checking flight and ferry schedules.
- Weather Considerations: The best time to visit is generally during the dry season, from April to October. The monsoon season can affect travel schedules due to rough seas.
- Accommodation: Booking your stay in advance is advisable, especially during high season.
- Cash: Bring enough cash, as ATMs are scarce on the islands.
Remember, the journey to the Togian Islands is part of the adventure, and the remote and pristine environment you’ll find there makes it well worth the effort!
Togian Islands Boat Schedule
How to get to Fadhila cottages :
- From Ampana
You can catch the public boat WAMBURABURA : every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10 am to Katupat for more or less than 5 hours ( see the boat schedule) and we will pick you up at Katupat harbour and take you directly to Fadhila cottages for another 5 minutes boat trip.
You can catch the daily speedboat HERCULES at 9 am and at 1 pm service by MANAKARA to Wakai (it takes 2 hours). And from Wakai you have to charter a fisherman boat directly to Fadhila cottages for another 2 hours
From Gorontalo
You can catch the ferry TUNA TOMINI every Tuesday and Friday at 4 pm. It takes 12 hours journey to Togian Islands. The ferry will arrive at wakai ferry terminal early in the morning so you have two options : Charter a boat directly to Fadhila cottages or waiting for the public boat Wamburabura at 1 pm from Wakai to Katupat.
Whichever route you choose, keep in mind that transportation options to the Togian Islands can be limited and schedules may vary, so it's a good idea to plan your journey in advance and check for updated information.
Check the boat schedule --->
How to get out of here :
- From Fadhila cottages to Ampana
You can catch the public boat WAMBURABURA : every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 8 am to Wakai and then all the way down to Ampana.
You can catch the daily speedboat MANAKARA at 9 am and HERCULES at 1 pm from Wakai .
- To Gorontalo
You can catch the ferry TUNA TOMINI every Monday and Thursday at 4 pm from Wakai ferry terminal