Banda Islands

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
View on vulcano Api from Pulau Banda Pisang
WiDi, Wikimedia Commons

The Banda Islands offer a blend of rich history and stunning natural beauty, drawing visitors with their world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities amidst vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The islands also captivate with their significant past as the sole source of nutmeg, evident in well-preserved colonial forts, museums, and fragrant spice plantations. For those seeking adventure, hiking an active volcano provides breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago.

The Banda Islands are largely a tranquil and off-the-beaten-path destination, and the available information does not highlight specific areas or districts known for a bustling social scene with other tourists or backpackers. Visitors are more likely to engage with the local community through guesthouse-arranged tours or by exploring neighborhoods on foot or by bicycle.

Top 5 Things to do in Banda Islands

The Banda Islands offer opportunities for marine exploration, historical immersion, volcanic hikes, and cultural encounters through spice plantations and charming town walks.

1. Diving and Snorkeling the Vibrant Reefs

Explore the world-class underwater ecosystems of the Banda Sea, renowned for their pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Encounter large pelagic species such as hammerhead sharks, tuna, and mobula rays, alongside an abundance of reef fish, pygmy seahorses, and even sea snakes in specific areas like Manuk Island. The Lava Flow site on Banda Api is particularly unique, showcasing coral regrowth over a former lava flow. Conditions generally offer good visibility and mild currents, though some sites are suited for advanced divers.

Cost: Diving prices typically range from approximately 650,000 IDR for one tank to 1,750,000 IDR for three tanks. Equipment rental is additional, with a full set costing around 200,000 IDR per day. Marine park fees may apply, such as 50,000 IDR for Pulau Ai or Hatta. For a comprehensive experience, liveaboard tours, which are the primary way to explore multiple remote dive sites, start from about $320 USD per day. Snorkeling trips can be self-arranged by chartering a local boat.

Transport: Most dive and snorkel sites require boat transport. Dive centers arrange boat trips as part of their packages. For self-arranged snorkeling to nearby spots like the Lava Flow, a local motorized canoe (ketingting) from Banda Neira can cost around 50,000 IDR.

2. Explore Fort Belgica

Step back in time at Fort Belgica, a well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fortress on Banda Neira. This star-shaped fort offers a tangible connection to the islands' significant role in the historical spice trade. Climb its sturdy walls and explore the interiors to gain panoramic views of Banda Neira town, the surrounding islands, and the majestic Gunung Api volcano. It serves as a striking reminder of the colonial era.

Cost: The entrance fee to Fort Belgica is approximately 10,000 IDR. Guided tours that include transport and historical context typically start around 500,000 IDR per person.

Transport: Fort Belgica is located in Banda Neira and is generally within walking distance of many accommodations in the town center. Alternatively, a motorbike taxi (ojek) costs between 5,000 - 10,000 IDR.

3. Hike Gunung Api Volcano

Undertake a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit of Gunung Api, the active volcano dominating the Banda Neira skyline. The ascent offers incredible panoramic views of the entire Banda archipelago. The trail, though steep and covered in loose volcanic scree in parts, is generally straightforward to follow. Experience the unique sensation of hot ground and minor fumarole activity near the summit, remnants of its last major eruption in 1988.

Cost: A boat crossing from Banda Neira to Gunung Api island typically costs around 10,000 IDR. The hike can be done independently without a guide, but carrying at least three liters of water per person is recommended.

Transport: Access to Gunung Api is by a short boat ride from the market jetty in Banda Neira, taking less than five minutes.

4. Discover Nutmeg Plantations

Immerse yourself in the historical heart of the Banda Islands by visiting a nutmeg plantation. These islands were once the world's sole source of this prized spice. Wander through the fragrant plantations, learn about the cultivation and harvesting process of nutmeg and mace, and understand their profound impact on global history. Many tours include visits to both current plantations and historical nutmeg warehouses.

Cost: Nutmeg plantation visits are often included as part of broader island tours, such as those visiting Banda Besar or Pulau Ay. Specific individual entry fees are not widely published but would be minimal if not part of a tour.

Transport: Plantations are located on various islands, including Banda Neira, Banda Besar, and Pulau Ay. Access typically involves a short boat ride from Banda Neira, followed by walking or local transport within the island.

5. Island Hopping to Neighboring Islands

Embark on an island-hopping adventure to explore the diverse landscapes and hidden gems of the Banda archipelago. Visit islands like Pulau Hatta, known for its pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities; Pulau Ai, offering beautiful seascapes and a glimpse into local homestay life; and Pulau Rhun, historically significant as the island traded for Manhattan. Each island offers unique snorkeling spots, tranquil beaches, and opportunities to experience local village life.

Cost: Public taxi boats depart from Nusantara pier on Banda Neira to islands like Banda Besar (every 30 minutes) and Hatta, Rhun, and Ai (once per day). Chartering a private boat for a full day of island hopping can cost around 600,000 IDR, which can be shared among a group.

Transport: All inter-island travel is by boat from Banda Neira's main pier. Public boats offer economical options, while chartered boats provide flexibility.

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