Togean Islands

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Sunset. Harmony Bay, Togean Islands. Sulawesi. indonesia
Luke Price from Rotterdam, Netherlands, Wikimedia Commons

The Togean Islands, nestled in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, offer an unspoiled escape characterized by pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This remote archipelago is a haven for underwater exploration, boasting vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and intriguing World War II wrecks. Beyond its aquatic allure, visitors can engage with the unique culture of the Bajau 'Sea Gypsies' in their stilt villages and experience a rare swim with stingless jellyfish in Mariona Lake.

While generally a tranquil destination, opportunities to socialize with other travelers exist, particularly on Kadidiri Island, which is considered a central hub for visitors. Many resorts facilitate social interaction through communal dining, where guests often gather and engage. Additionally, some resorts, such as Kadidiri Paradise, offer a bar and host evening activities like bonfires, fostering a friendly atmosphere among backpackers and other tourists.

Top 5 Things to do in Togean Islands

The Togean Islands invite exploration of vibrant underwater ecosystems, unique marine life encounters, authentic cultural experiences, and secluded beach escapes.

1. Underwater Exploration: Diving and Snorkeling

The Togean Islands sit within the Coral Triangle, offering exceptional underwater exploration. You will discover an abundance of healthy coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including various fish species, turtles, and macro critters. Dive sites around Una Una Island are excellent for spotting pelagic species like barracudas, jacks, and even reef sharks, with good visibility. For those interested in history, the remains of a WWII B24 Bomber wreck lie beneath the waves near Kadidiri, providing a unique dive experience amidst coral growth. Snorkeling is equally rewarding, with many reefs accessible directly from resort shores or via short boat trips. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.

Cost: Diving costs typically range from IDR 550,000 to IDR 650,000 per fun dive, with equipment often included or available for an additional IDR 50,000 per item per day. Dive packages (e.g., 6 dives for around IDR 3,300,000) are also commonly offered by resorts. Snorkeling from resort house reefs is usually free. Day trips to specific snorkeling or dive sites, often combined with other activities like visiting the Jellyfish Lake or other islands, are arranged by resorts and vary in price depending on the number of participants. Expect boat tours to cost around IDR 425,000 to IDR 1,200,000 per boat, which can be split among passengers.

Transport: Most diving and snorkeling spots require boat transport, which is typically arranged directly through your resort or a local dive center. Resorts often have their own boats for daily excursions.

2. Swim with Stingless Jellyfish at Mariona Lake

Experience the surreal sensation of swimming in Mariona Lake, one of the world's few stingless jellyfish lakes located on Ketupat Island. Thousands of these unique, harmless jellyfish thrive here, having lost their sting due to the lake's isolation from predators. Entering the warm, clear waters to float among them is a truly magical and meditative experience. It is recommended to avoid chemical sunscreens and lotions before swimming to protect the fragile jellyfish ecosystem. While recent reports note fewer jellyfish than in previous years, it remains a highly recommended and unique encounter.

Cost: Access to Mariona Lake is typically part of a boat tour arranged by resorts, often combined with snorkeling or beach visits. The cost for a shared boat trip can range from approximately IDR 425,000 to IDR 1,200,000 per boat, depending on the tour's duration and inclusions, which is then divided by the number of participants. There is generally no separate entrance fee for the lake itself.

Transport: Accessible via a boat trip, usually organized by your accommodation on Ketupat Island or a nearby tourist hub like Kadidiri. Your resort will arrange the boat directly.

3. Visit Bajau 'Sea Gypsies' Villages

Gain insight into the unique culture of the Bajau people, traditionally known as 'Sea Gypsies,' who live in stilt villages built over the water. Pulau Papan, near Malenge Island, is a particularly picturesque village connected to the mainland by a long wooden bridge, offering an intimate glimpse into their traditional fishing lifestyle. The Bajau are renowned for their incredible free-diving abilities. Visiting their villages provides a fascinating cultural exchange and a chance to observe a way of life deeply connected to the ocean.

Cost: Visits to Bajau villages are typically included as part of island-hopping or snorkeling tours organized by resorts. A shared boat tour covering multiple destinations, including a Bajau village, may cost around IDR 1,200,000 per boat, which is then split among the participants.

Transport: Reached by boat, usually as part of a multi-stop island tour arranged by your resort.

4. Relax on Secluded White-Sand Beaches

The Togean Islands are abundant with pristine, often deserted white-sand beaches perfect for relaxation. Take pleasure in the tranquility of places like Karina Beach, known for its coral carpet, or Barracuda Beach on Kadidiri Island, often found empty. These idyllic spots provide ideal settings for sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying the peaceful turquoise waters and lush surroundings. Many resorts are located directly on beautiful beaches, allowing for immediate access to this serene activity.

Cost: Access to most beaches is free. If a beach is part of a remote island, it would be accessed as part of an island hopping tour, with costs as outlined for boat tours (IDR 425,000 to IDR 1,200,000 per boat for a shared trip).

Transport: Some beaches are accessible by walking from your resort, particularly on islands like Kadidiri. Others require a short boat trip, which can be arranged through your accommodation.

5. Hike Una Una Volcano (Colo Volcano)

For those seeking an active adventure, a hike up Una Una Volcano, also known as Colo Volcano, offers a rewarding experience. Rising over 500 meters, this stratovolcano provides a challenging yet scenic trek through the jungle. The hike typically takes around 2 hours to reach the caldera, which now holds a lake. From the summit, panoramic views of Una Una Island and the surrounding archipelago unfold. It is advisable to go with a local guide, especially after rain when paths can become slippery.

Cost: The boat trip to Una Una Island for the hike can be arranged through your resort. For instance, a shared boat trip from Kadidiri to Una Una (often combined with diving) may cost around IDR 2,000,000 per boat. A local guide for the hike typically costs around IDR 150,000.

Transport: Requires a boat trip to Una Una Island, which your resort can organize. Once on Una Una, a local guide may take you closer to the volcano by motorbike before beginning the hike.

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