Togean Islands
An archipelago of pristine islands in Sulawesi, Indonesia, offering unparalleled snorkeling, diving, and a true digital detox escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas, best for water activities.
Togean Islands
Best Time
Calm seas, best for water activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An archipelago of pristine islands in Sulawesi, Indonesia, offering unparalleled snorkeling, diving, and a true digital detox escape.
"A dirty paradise, but the underwater scenery is incredible—sharks, mantas, turtles!"
Cash is King 💰
No ATMs here! Bring enough cash for your entire stay. Many places only accept cash .
Pack Light, Pack Smart :handbag:
Focus on essentials: swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Malenge Island
Central Togean Islands
Picture-perfect beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs await. A true slice of paradise .
+1
Snorkeling & Diving
Various dive sites
Explore an underwater wonderland teeming with marine life, including sharks and turtles .
+1
Poyalisa
Poya Island
Experience the sounds of paradise and vibrant local culture. Your idyllic cottage awaits .
Bolilanga Island
Togean Archipelago
A tiny, secluded island offering a profound sense of peace and well-being. Pure bliss .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Disconnect
Travel Time is Part of the Adventure
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is King 💰
No ATMs here! Bring enough cash for your entire stay. Many places only accept cash.
Pack Light, Pack Smart :handbag:
Focus on essentials: swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing.
Embrace the Slow Pace :stopwatch:
Things move at an Indonesian pace. Be patient and go with the flow. It's part of the charm.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen is a Must :sun_with_face:
Protect the delicate coral reefs. Choose sunscreens that are free of harmful chemicals.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is King 💰
No ATMs here! Bring enough cash for your entire stay. Many places only accept cash.
Pack Light, Pack Smart :handbag:
Focus on essentials: swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing.
Embrace the Slow Pace :stopwatch:
Things move at an Indonesian pace. Be patient and go with the flow. It's part of the charm.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen is a Must :sun_with_face:
Protect the delicate coral reefs. Choose sunscreens that are free of harmful chemicals.
Learn Basic Indonesian Phrases :speech_balloon:
A few words go a long way! Locals appreciate the effort, even if it's just 'terima kasih' (thank you).
Book Accommodations in Advance :bed:
Especially during peak season, popular spots fill up quickly. Plan ahead to secure your stay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Togean Islands are lauded for their breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, offering a true paradise experience. However, visitors frequently point out significant issues with pollution, particularly plastic waste, and express concerns about the management of national park fees and environmental protection efforts.
"The national parc is very nice and there is many place incredible to do Snorkeling or diving.
Neverless you will see by boat during your way many polution, trash and plastic.
When we discussed with the local of the island there are all saying that the gouvernement do nothing with the money they collect with the entrance fees ticket.
Many problem from that point.
1 No education in school to teach to not litter
2 You will see many local on the boat thoughing plastic during the trip and when tourist will make the remark they don't care
3 We heard that many time the boat will thought the waste from the full bin into the water to clean the boat .
4 Dynamite fish still exist nowaday
Locals don't seem concern about the plastic problem even if they saw plastic floating in front of they house or even if they need to clean several time the boat's propeller and restart the engin.
They fish in the national park with no restriction. They fish as well in front of the beach of the hotel. And just aboie diving point.
Regardless all this issue with stayed 15 min sitted in the gouvernement desk to have some explanation before taking the boat. I will have no problem to pay to help of maintain this beautiful place if that was the case !
We paid 150 000 each whereas local only pay 5 000. So tourist pay 30 times more than local. Whereas local pay 5000 which is the same price that going to toilet in some place.
On one hand tourist pay to much on other hand local pay nothing where it's always them who make place dirty.
In sera beach we had one day (out of 5) that it was so dirty that one tour boat came and turn back. The same day we couldn't swim so we spend 2 hours at 3 tourist to help and clean the place.
Now I can say it's à big shame that gouvernement do absolutaly nothing with this money.
In this condition, I am so angry that I will suggest tourist to go somewhere else to spend they holidays as the place is à dirty paradise !
No excuse to say plastic is due to other contry or other indonesia province littering.
The bay is close on 3 sides !
And I really hope writting this comment , local pleople and gouvernement will get the thing change quicly .
The only hope I have is the différents hôtels will be fed up with this issue and with the tourist complained that they will move the gouvernement to get the thing done."
Damien Galy
"That's where my parents grew up in Kalia, the sago planted there was planted by a Kendari person, his son, Sao Sao Haji Bungulawa."
Pa Eko
"Perhaps there is no more beautiful place on earth."
Natalina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Togean Islands are remote and require multiple travel legs. Most travelers fly into either Ampana or Gorontalo on Sulawesi. From Ampana, you can take a ferry to Wakai or directly to your chosen island resort. From Gorontalo, there's a ferry that stops at various points in the Togeans. The journey can take 2-3 days from major hubs like Bali.
Public ferries are the most budget-friendly option for island hopping. For more flexibility and speed, you can hire private speedboats, though this is significantly more expensive. Many resorts also offer boat transfers between islands.
No, there are no direct flights to the Togean Islands. You must fly to a gateway city on Sulawesi (like Ampana or Gorontalo) and then take a ferry.
Reaching the Togean Islands from Bali is a significant journey, often taking around 3 days with flights and ferry connections.
Yes, several local tour operators and travel agencies offer organized trips, including open trips and private tours, which can simplify logistics.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Togean National Park. However, there are significant discrepancies in pricing, with tourists paying substantially more than locals. Some visitors have expressed frustration over the perceived lack of investment in park maintenance despite the fees [^Reviews].
The Togean Islands are a natural destination, so there are no strict opening hours for beaches or snorkeling spots. However, ferry schedules and resort operating hours should be checked in advance.
For park entrance fees, these are typically collected at designated points or by your accommodation. For accommodation, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available. The main pricing disparity noted is between local and foreign visitors [^Reviews].
Entrance fees are typically paid in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It's essential to have cash as card facilities are rare.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The dry season, from April to November, offers the best weather with calmer seas, ideal for snorkeling and diving. The shoulder months of March and December can also be pleasant with fewer crowds [^Reviews].
The Togean Islands are renowned for snorkeling, diving, island hopping, kayaking, and simply relaxing on pristine beaches. You can also visit local Bajau villages and explore the lush rainforests.
Internet access is extremely limited, and Wi-Fi is often unavailable or very slow. Many visitors embrace this as a digital detox opportunity.
No, there are no ATMs in the Togean Islands. You must bring enough cash (Indonesian Rupiah) to cover all your expenses, including accommodation, food, and activities.
Pack light clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and any personal medications. A dry bag is also useful for boat trips.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most accommodations offer fresh seafood caught daily, along with Indonesian staples like rice, vegetables, and local dishes. Expect simple, delicious meals often included in your stay.
Dining options are primarily limited to your chosen resort or homestay. Some small local eateries might exist in larger villages, but options are scarce.
While fresh vegetables are common, options for strict vegetarian or vegan diets might be limited. It's best to communicate your dietary needs to your accommodation in advance.
Small warungs (local shops) may sell basic snacks and drinks, but selection is limited. It's advisable to bring some of your favorite non-perishable snacks.
Food costs are usually included in accommodation packages, especially at resorts. If dining separately, expect reasonable prices for local Indonesian cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! From stunning sunsets over the ocean
A waterproof camera or a GoPro is highly recommended for capturing the incredible marine life while snorkeling or diving. Many travelers share amazing underwater shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone to avoid issues.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and seascape photography.
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in local villages. Be respectful and engage with the community to capture authentic moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Choose accommodations that offer family rooms or bungalows. Pack plenty of sun protection (hats, rash guards, reef-safe sunscreen) and insect repellent. Bring along some favorite snacks and entertainment for travel days and downtime, as amenities are limited. Embrace the lack of Wi-Fi as a chance for genuine family connection and exploration.
🎒 Budget Backpackers
Tips for budget travelers: Utilize the public ferry system for inter-island travel to save on costs. Pack your own snacks and consider accommodations that include meals to manage food expenses. Be prepared for a simpler travel experience with limited amenities, which is part of the charm and affordability of backpacking here.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
Many resorts offer charming bungalows right on the water, providing an intimate and idyllic setting.Romantic highlights: Opt for a stay on a smaller, less developed island for ultimate seclusion. Enjoy sunset boat trips or couples' massages if available. The digital detox aspect also encourages couples to reconnect and focus on each other amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Togean Islands: A Traveler's Guide
+1Once you're in the Togeans, inter-island travel is primarily done via public ferries or private speedboats. Public ferries are economical but operate on fixed schedules and can be slow. For more flexibility, especially if you're on a tighter schedule or want to explore more remote spots, hiring a private speedboat is an option, though it comes at a higher cost. Some resorts also offer boat transfers as part of their packages, which can be convenient if you're staying at a specific location.
It's crucial to understand that internet connectivity is extremely limited across the Togean Islands, and ATMs are non-existent. Therefore, it's essential to bring sufficient cash (Indonesian Rupiah) for your entire stay to cover accommodation, food, activities, and any purchases. Embrace the digital detox; it's a significant part of the Togean experience, allowing you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
The Underwater Paradise: Snorkeling and Diving in the Togeans
The clarity of the water often allows for excellent visibility, making every dive and snorkel session a memorable experience.Popular dive and snorkel sites are scattered throughout the archipelago. Areas around Malenge Island and Una Una are particularly renowned for their rich marine biodiversity. Many resorts offer PADI-certified dive courses and guided snorkeling trips, catering to all levels of experience. Even if you're a beginner, the shallow, calm waters around many islands provide a safe and accessible environment to explore the underwater world.
+2It's vital to practice responsible tourism when enjoying the marine environment. Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystems from harmful chemicals. Avoid touching or standing on the coral, and never feed the marine life. By being mindful of your impact, you help preserve this natural wonder for future generations to enjoy.
Environmental Concerns and Responsible Tourism
Some visitors have noted a disconnect between the entrance fees collected and the visible efforts towards environmental management. There are concerns about waste disposal practices and a lack of widespread environmental education among some local populations [^Reviews]. This situation can be disheartening for travelers who wish to contribute to the preservation of such a pristine environment.
As a visitor, you can contribute to responsible tourism by being mindful of your waste, using reef-safe products, and supporting accommodations and tour operators that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Engaging respectfully with local communities and understanding their challenges can also foster positive change. While the beauty of the Togeans is undeniable, awareness and responsible actions are key to ensuring its long-term health.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit