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Wakatobi is actually a collection of small
islands in the Banda Sea with superb coral
formations protected by the local
communities and set to the south-east of
mainland Sulawesi. Spectacular reefs
surround the main islands of Wangi, Kaledupa,
Tomea and Binongki but the smaller isles
harbour equally pleasant sub-aquatic
surprises. The serenity that comes with its
remoteness more than makes up for the lack
of tourist infrastructure in this far-flung
paradise.
A tropical climate
with an average annual temperature of 32°C
permeates this equatorial outpost. It
normally rains around January and February.
We recommend visiting from March
to December with consistently good diving
conditions. Coral spawning during the Summer
months cause a slightly choppier surface.
July and August bring rich plankton blooms
and their attendant big marine animals, but
also cooler water and lower visibility.
Whale spotters can take note that November
to April is the best time to see pilot
whales.
Tukang Besi Archipelago, south eastern
Sulawesi
The small grouping of islands south-east of
Sulawesi hosts some of the most flamboyant
and healthy coral fields on earth and the
abundant marine life now regularly draws
visitors to this latest and most exciting of
Indonesian diving destinations. But despite
its easy accessibility via charter flights
from Bali, the real attraction lies in its
remoteness which evokes feelings of
negotiating uncharted waters and the
adventurous thrill of covering virgin
territory.
Depth: 5 - >40m
Visibility: 15 - 80m
Currents: Gentle
Surface Conditions: Calm
Water Temperature: 26 - 29°C
Experience Level: Beginner - advanced
Number of dive sites: >50
Impromptu visits to remote
gypsy villages along the coast will reveal
the locals engaging in their normal course
of daily activities such as traditional
sarong-weaving and dugout-boat building.
They are famous for their iron-making skills
embodied in products such as the finely
decorated traditional knives known as 'keris'.
Caverns nearby some of the outposts hide
clear freshwater pools to immerse yourself
in.
Direct charter flights
from Bali are available.
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