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Volcanic islands in the Banda Sea, Maluku, Indonesia
Photo: Georg Holderied from Basel, Switzerland, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Banda Islands (Kepulauan Banda) are an archipelago in South Maluku (Moluccas), Indonesia.
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Day-trips can be arranged through guest houses in Banda Neira or locals owning boats. Great drop-offs include Pulau Hatta, Pulau Pisang, Batu Kapal, Pulau Ai and the northern shore of Pulau Gunung Api just off the cold lava stream. Make sure that your boat captain knows the sites and make arrangements for lunch as there are no warungs on most islands! If you're staying in Pulau Ai or Hatta, you can go snorkelling straight out of your room.
There are two dive operators: Naira Dive Resort is on Hatta Island, and Dive Bluemotion is on Banda Neira.
Climbing the highest peak of the Bandas (667 m above sea level) offers great views. The trail starts at the few houses on the eastern shore and although it is unmarked almost impossible to miss. Bring plenty of water as the trail is steep, taking about 2 hours. Hiking boots are advisable as the path is stony and slippery. Guide recommended if going alone. The fare for boat transport from Bandaneira to Gunung Api is Rp10,000 each way.
Stroll around the island to explore smaller villages in the north and the runway of the airport.
Upon the arrival of the PELNI ships, the harbor area comes to life with dozens of street stalls selling fresh grilled fish and vegetable dishes. Try spicy tuna on a stick with sambal.
A well-established restaurant to get decent local dishes. Wi-Fi available.
By plane
The Banda Islands are served by the small Bandaneira Airport (or Banda Neira, NDA). SAM Air serves the flight to Banda Neira. It uses a very small propeller plane (12 people capacity).
By boat
Getting around on Bandaneira is either by foot, ojek (motorbike taxi) or becak (cycle rickshaw). The furthermost village in the north is a 45-minute walk.
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