The Best Kept Secret of Lesser Sunda
Solor Alor
The Original Sandalwood Island
The Alor Pantar Archipelago consists of 95 islands covering 7,420 km² (2,865 miles²) of land and water. This stunning collection of thirteen volcanic islands is nestled within 652,120 acres of marine protected waters between the Banda Sea and Timor Island. To the west, the Alor Strait features five remarkable table islands, while the southern shores boast towering cliffs and pristine white sandy beaches. In these tranquil villages, islanders cultivate seaweed and forage for fish, living in harmony with nature. First sketched by Antonio Pigafetta aboard the Victoria in 1522, the archipelago has retained its authentic charm over 500 years, making it one of the best-kept secrets of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Immerse yourself in breathtaking seascapes from Flores to Alor, where majestic volcanoes rise above crystal-clear waters and coconut-fringed beaches invite exploration.
Land
The Majestic Volcanoes
Unlike much of Indonesia, the Lesser Sunda Islands rose from the seabed, resulting in unique flora and fauna that differ from those in Asia and Australia. Surrounded by strong tidal currents, these islands feature dry lowland rainforests and savanna woodlands, which restrict wildlife movement and give rise to many endemic species found only on specific islands. This archipelago comprises 95 islands, covering an area of 7,420 km² (2,865 miles²) of land and water. Visitors can enjoy stunning white sandy beaches alongside black volcanic sands, all framed by coconut trees. Towering, steaming volcanoes dot the distant landscape, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere that enchants explorers and nature lovers alike.
Sea
The Indonesian Throughflow
The Pacific Ocean flows through the Dampier Strait of Raja Ampat, merging with the Indian Ocean via the Pantar and Alor Straits and the Sape Strait of the Komodo Archipelago. Each strait features unique topography and wildlife, making them top diving destinations. Cold upwellings from the deep Indian Ocean, as cool as 5 °C (23 °F), rise to warmer coastal waters, reaching up to 30 °C (86 °F), creating a thermocline that attracts deep-sea species like nurse, thresher, hammerhead, and whale sharks, along with the ocean sunfish (Mola-mola). Marine mammals, including sperm and blue whales, are occasionally spotted, while schools of dogtooth tuna, barracuda, and rays patrol vibrant coral gardens. The underwater landscape includes seamounts and volcanic beds rich with rare creatures. At night, Kalabahi and Beang Bays come alive with weedy rhinopias and mimic octopuses. With over fifty dive sites, the area is home to 1,200 species of reef fish and 500 species of corals. From April to October, calm seas during harvest festivals facilitate exploration of this underwater paradise.
Culture
Ancient Traditions Live On
The first settlers of this region were Papuan tribesmen from New Guinea, followed by Moluccas sea nomads and Java traders in the 15th century. The 17 isolated tribal communities maintain unique traditions and features. On the beach, fishermen weave bamboo fish traps called “Bubu,” while women create hand-spun fabrics known as “Kanafe Ikat.” At low tide, they gather sea cucumbers and sponges for natural dyes, as a Kanafe is essential for marriage exchanges. Men dive for fish using handmade goggles and bamboo spears. In the highlands, traditional bamboo hamlets thrive, and safaris reveal communities still wearing tree bark clothing. Thursday bazaars on volcano slopes allow coastal and mountain tribes to trade salt for organic cotton for Ikat weaving. After the West Monsoon, mountain tribes celebrate the harvest with dances and ancient ceremonies in heirloom Ikats. Sustainable living is integral to islanders, preserving their ecosystems and traditions.
Solor Alor Safari
From Volcanic Peaks to Underwater Depths: A Cultural Odyssey
Explore the vibrant coral reef dive sites of Pura and Pantar, known for their unique topographies and rich marine life, including dense coral, anemones, and diverse reef fish. Consider an extra day in Sikka to search for the dugong, a walrus-type mammal. Night dives at Kalabahi Bay and Baengabang Bay reveal bustling underwater nightlife, featuring rare octopuses and Rhinopias. The Pantar Strait offers opportunities to spot pelagic fish like eagle rays and barracuda, with potential encounters with mola-mola and various sharks. Enjoy pristine beaches at Adonara and Lapan, where sustainable fishing and village life thrive. Engage with locals in Takpala and discover traditional weaving in Lembata or Solor. Conclude your journey in Maumere Bay’s turquoise waters, joining a Watublapi family for a traditional feast and dance, embracing the region’s rich culture.
Service Excellence
Dedicated Concierge
Flexible Itinerary
