17 Tourist Attractions in Maluku, Natural Wealth and History that Captivates Tourists
Maluku is a province in the eastern part of Indonesia with stunning natural scenery. It is not uncommon for many tourists, both local and international, to admire the tourist attractions in Maluku.
Sometimes, when a region has so many great tourist spots, it can be confusing to decide where to go first. Well, for your reference, here are 17 tourist attractions in Maluku that you can visit.
Not only are there natural attractions, but there are also man-made and historical tourist spots. Let's take a look!
1. Manusela National Park
Manusela National Park is a must-visit tourist spot when vacationing in Maluku. This vast park has a rich variety of biodiversity. Here, around 117 species of beautiful birds live.
There are many things to do while at Manusela National Park, such as exploring the forest in Wai Isal, seeing deer in Pasarahi, and hiking Mount Binaiya. There is also the Ninivala waterfall with its crystal-clear water.
Location: Manusela, North Seram, Central Maluku
Operating hours: Monday—Saturday, 08:00—16:30 WIT
Price: Rp120,000 (accommodation + fees)
2. Sawai Village
Sawai Village is inhabited by around 4,000 people with an area of 15 hectares. This village is located near the beach with beautiful views. Especially the marine life, such as fish and coral, is abundant.
Tourists visiting this oldest village in Maluku usually stay for a few days. There are accommodations available for Rp250,000 per night. The lodging floats on the water!
Location: North Seram District, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 24 hours
Price: free entry
3. Pintu Kota Ambon Beach
As the main icon for tourist attractions in Maluku located in Ambon, Pintu Kota Beach is indeed a favorite among tourists. Not only is it about the beautiful beach and clear sea water, but it also offers diving and snorkeling activities.
Tourists can also enjoy culinary tourism to savor various seafood. Speedboat rentals for beach tours are also available. Sounds fun, right?
Location: Airlouw Hamlet, Nusaniwe, Ambon, Maluku
Operating hours: 06:00—20:00 WIT
Price: Rp5,000
4. Fort Belgica
Fort Belgica is a historical tourist spot in Maluku. This site is located about 30 meters above sea level. Its shape resembles the Pentagon building in America.
In the past, Fort Belgica served as the military headquarters for the Dutch during their colonization of Indonesia. This fort was so respected that it earned the nickname “Crown with Five Points Above the Nassau Family and Protector of Banda.”
Location: Nusantara Village, Banda District, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 08:00—17:00 WIT
Price: Rp20,000
5. Natsepa Beach
There is a myth that the sea water at Natsepa Beach can cure mild flu by soaking there for a few minutes. Wow, it seems the myth isn't too far off because, in fact, sunbathing under direct sunlight can indeed strengthen the immune system. However, don't stay too long, or you might catch a cold!
Natsepa Beach's beauty is beyond doubt. This white sandy beach is a favorite among tourists visiting Maluku.
Location: Suli Village, Salahutu, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 06:00—21:00 WIT
Price: Rp3,000
6. Gowa Hawang
Gowa Hawang is one of the nine underwater caves in the world located in Maluku. A pride of the city of Ambon, Gowa Hawang has crystal-clear water that is said to be directly connected to the Evu Spring in the Kei Islands.
Location: Hoat Sorbay, Kei Kecil, Letvuan, Southeast Maluku
Operating hours: 24 hours
Price: Rp5,000
7. Fort Duurstede
Fort Duurstede is a historical site that must be visited when in Maluku. This fort was captured by the VOC in 1690, which was previously built by the Portuguese in 1676, but was later reclaimed by Captain Pattimura's forces.
Location: Saparua Island, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 06:00—18:00 WIT
Price: Rp20,000
8. Cultural Heritage of Amsterdam Fort
Amsterdam Fort is a remnant of the Dutch colonial era. It is located about 42 kilometers from the center of Ambon City and can be reached by car in 1 hour. This building was originally constructed by the Portuguese in 1605, then seized by the Dutch and used as a defense headquarters.
Location: Hila Village, Leihitu District, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 06:00—18:00 WIT
Price: Free
9. Wapauwe Mosque
In addition to being a place of worship, Wapauwe Mosque also attracts tourists who come to take pictures. This is because the mosque is unique as it was built without nails and has a roof made of sago palm fronds. There is also a handwritten Quran here.
Location: Kaitetu, Leihitu, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 24 hours
Price: Free
10. Liang Beach
Once crowned as the most beautiful beach in Indonesia, Liang Beach is not too crowded, making it a peaceful place to visit. Here, tourists can also safely enjoy snorkeling, diving, and surfing due to the gentle waves.
Location: Provincial Road, Liang, Salahutu, Central Maluku
Operating hours: 24 hours
Price: Free
11. Victoria Fort
There are indeed many historical attractions in Maluku, and next up is Victoria Fort. This fort was also built by the Portuguese and later seized by the Dutch during their colonization of Indonesia.
Now, Victoria Fort has become an interesting tourist destination in Ambon. Here, several paintings from the Dutch government are displayed.
Location: Slamet Riyadi Street, Pala, Uritetu, Sirimau, Ambon City, Maluku
Operating hours: 08:00—18:00 WIT
Price: Free
12. Siwalima Museum
Siwalima Museum houses all historical relics in Maluku, especially in Ambon City. Siwalima has 2 buildings, Building I which is a maritime museum and Building II which is a cultural museum.
Location: Makmur Park, Amahusu Village, Nusaniwe District,
