Maluku Islands, Indonesia

The Maluku Islands, also known as the Moluccas or the Spice Islands, are a region of Indonesia lying between Sulawesi and Papua. The islands are administratively divided into two provinces; North Maluku and Maluku. Ambon is the provincial capital of Maluku.

Ambon, the provincial capital of Maluku, is built on a hillside overlooking the bay. It has a number of interesting historical and cultural sites. These include the Portuguese fort at Hila, the ANZAC war cemetery and the Siwa Lima museum.

The Banda Islands are also located in the Maluku Islands. Snorkeling and diving are popular here. Visitors can also climb Gunung Api, the highest peak of the Bandas which offers great views and some volcanic insight. Visitors can also walk aroung the island to explore smaller villages.

Things to See & Do

* Siwa Lima Museum
* Commonwealth war graves
* Namalatu beach area
* Snorkeling & diving on Latuhalat or Liang beach
* Banda islands.

General information

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Rupiah (IDR)
Language – Indonesian
Electricity – 2 round pins European style
Population - 2,000,000 approx. (as of 2000)
Land Area – 74,505 km²
Time - GMT plus hours seven hours
International Country Telephone Code – +62

Travel Links – There are daily flights to Ambon and also Ternate from Jakarta. Alternatively there are boats from various parts of Indonesia. Schedules change frequently, but any travel agent in Jakarta or a major Indonesian city can arrange this.