Wakatobi, Paradise For Diver

The beauty of nature in Eastern Indonesia seems endless. One of the rising destinations is Wakatobi. Wakatobi has long been a prima donna for divers from all over the world because of its underwater natural beauty. No less than 942 fish species and 750 coral species were recorded inhabiting Wakatobi waters.

Wakatobi is one of the districts in Southeast Sulawesi Province which has its capital at Wangi-Wangi. Since 1996, Wakatobi has been designated as an Indonesian national park and a world nature reserve for the marine biosphere by UNESCO. The name Wakatobi is an acronym for the four main islands, Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko. In addition to the four islands, there are several other small islands located in the Wakatobi region, including Hoga, Kapota, Anan, and Rundumana. Besides being known as a paradise for divers, Wakatobi also has other tourist destinations that will make you amazed. What do you want to know?

Paradise of Tomia

The main activity when visiting Wakatobi is to explore the spectacular underwater beauty. You can use almost all Wakatobi waters to dive or snorkel, but the most popular are Onemohute on Wangi-Wangi and Rome (Roma’s Reef) in Tomia. Roma’s Reef is one of the names of the most well-known coral cluster "busy" compared to other corals. Located at a depth of 15 to 25 meters, you can see the colorful coral reefs and rows of fish that swim regularly and other beautiful sea animals. This spot is also safe for those of you who are just learning diving. Other interesting diving locations in Tomia are Cornucopia and Coral Garden.

Don't worry if you haven't been able to dive, the natural scenery above the waters is no less beautiful. You can just snorkel or chat with some dolphins that often appear on the surface. One of the best places to see dolphins is at the Port of Mola Raya which can be reached in 20 minutes by rental boat from Wanci City, Wangi-Wangi.

Hoga Island

Beach tourism destinations have become commonplace, especially in Eastern Indonesia, such as beaches on Hoga Island. The soft and clear white sand of the beach water will make you forget time. Hoga Island tends to be quieter compared to other major islands in Wakatobi. Its location which is only separated by a small strait with Kaledupa Island adds to the uniqueness of this one beach. You can try to spend the night at Hoga Dive Resort and feel the sensation of the beach that seems to be yours. One thing to note is that electricity here is only available from 18:00 to 00:00 WIT. But, what does electricity mean when compared to Hoga Island's coastline, right? Because it is free from light pollution, Hoga Island can also be an amazing stargazing place.

Tomia Hill

As the name implies, this tourist destination is very famous for its beauty. Kahyangan Peak which is located on Tomia Island is a grass hill that presents a spectacular view of Wakatobi from a height. Located 30 minutes from Usuku (East Tomia), this place is a favorite location for photographers to watch the sunset. You can also spend the night in the hilly area and enjoy views of the Tomia starry sky which is far from city light pollution. In the morning, you will be greeted by a view of the rising sun with a warm radiance. You can get all this impressive experience at Kahyangan peak.

Kontamale Cave

Wakatobi is quite famous for its natural cave attractions and the flow of groundwater in it. There were 12 caves scattered on the islands of Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, and Tomia. One of the popular ones is Kontamale Cave in Wanci, Wangi-Wangi. This cave is also often referred to as cave because the water on the lips of the cave resembles a lake. In the skyline of the cave, there are many stunning stalagmites. With clear water, many residents use this cave as a source of water for bathing and washing. Even so, the water in this cave has never been murky! Even he said bathing here could make a mate easy.

Seribu Penyu Island, Anano Beach

This island which has the nickname of the Thousand Islands Sea Turtle is a small uninhabited island in Wakatobi. Named a thousand turtles because this is the location of green turtle colonies and hawksbill turtles to lay eggs. The beach is also very beautiful with smooth white sand and very clear beach water so you will be guaranteed to stay here for a long time.

Sombano Lake

Lake Sombano is a lake formed in the Mangrove Forest area of Kaledupa Island. You can find various types of exotic plants such as orchids and various pandan species here. No less interesting is the appearance of red shrimp over the waters of clear brackish water. You might be tempted to swim, but locals don't recommend it because there is a legend about Lake Sombano's black crocodile which is feared to appear when you swim here. Although not recommended for swimming, the beauty of Lake Sombano still amazes anyone who visits it.

Wasabi Nua Resto and Wakatobi Traditional Culinary Tour

Wasabinua Resto & Coffee is on a unique small rock island. The food menu offered is mostly delicious Asian-style seafood. Not only can you enjoy delicious food and drinks, you will also be presented with the amazing natural scenery of Wakatobi. Do not miss the traditional local cuisine of the Wakatobi residents that you can find in food stalls. Among them, what you have to try is kusami, parende and laluta which will make you addicted.

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