Togean Island

TOGEAN ISLAND :  PARADISE ON EARTH

Getting to the Togians is the biggest challenge and this paradise almost no one knew about. However, if it takes determination to get to the Togean Islands, it's even harder to leave. The rich diversity of marine life and astonishing coral formations in the Togean are a magnet for divers and snorkelers. There are several professional scuba schools for training, courses and recreational dives. You'll hop from one forested golden-beach island to the next, where hammocks are plentiful, worries scarce and the welcome genuine. On land, there’s a surprising variety of wildlife to look for in the undisturbed and wild jungles, as well as other remote beaches to find. Around seven ethnic groups share this region, but all are happy to see visitors and are exceptionally hospitable.

You must visit the Mariona Lake. The highlight are the non-stinging jelly fish – pink, blue and ghostly white. The Togean Islands has a population of around 25,000 people. Most live in villages on the three largest islands of Batudaka, Togian, and Talatakoh. In Malenge Bajo Village you can see the Bajau people, often called the Sea Gypsies, traditionally live in villages built on stilts over the coral reefs. Some of the villages built on stilts are picturesque and it’s well worth visiting. Other than that you can go hiking. Colo Volcano is a fun way to spend a day in the Togean Islands. The volcano is short, rising 500 meters above sea level with a 2 km wide caldera. The hike up to the crater will take 2+ hours and there are two routes up, but it’s worth the climb. The view from the top is a treat.