Southeast Sulawesi: Coral Reefs, Island Culture and Vast Landscapes

Coral reefs, island traditions and landscapes stretching from the sea to the highlands give Southeast Sulawesi many different facets. Wakatobi National Park comprises 25 coral reef chains and covers an area of 1,390,000 hectares. It is recognised as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve under the Man and the Biosphere Programme. Those interested in marine life can go snorkelling and diving in Wakatobi; the waters off Wangi-Wangi also have coral reefs and diverse marine fauna.

Reefs, Islands and Landscapes

On Hoga, white-sand beaches and calm waters go hand in hand with opportunities for snorkelling. On the island of Kaledupa, canoeing on Lake Sombano is a popular activity. Visitors can watch dolphins early in the morning on Kapota. These examples represent different kinds of experiences: some travellers are drawn to the water, others to a lake or to observing marine animals. When planning your trip, consider which of these experiences you would like to shape it.

The island interior also offers its own impressions. Puncak Khayangan on Tomia is a viewpoint overlooking green savannah landscapes and the deep-blue sea. The tourism village of Tangkeno lies about 700 metres above sea level, where the altitude makes the air cool. Its nickname, “Negeri di Awan,” means “Land Above the Clouds.” From the square in Tangkeno, visitors can see Mount Watu Sangia and the sea. Ancient fortresses associated with the village’s history can also be visited there.

Villages, Crafts and Traditions

In Liya Togo, historic buildings and living craft traditions are part of the village’s character. Masjid Mubarok was built in 1546 and features distinctive 20th-century architecture. Benteng Liya surrounds the village; together with the mosque, it is one of Liya Togo’s historic buildings that have been preserved and maintained to this day. The Lariangi dance is also associated with the village. Visitors can also watch residents make sarongs, scarves, headbands and bags from Homoru woven fabric.

Maritime culture and the lives of coastal communities are at the heart of the Wakatobi Wonderful Festival and Expo, known as Wakatobi WAVE. Its stated highlights include a cultural parade featuring the Karia procession, a local coming-of-age ritual, and a parade of decorated boats representing the maritime life of the Bajo people. The festival also includes the release of sea turtles and the transplantation of coral reefs. Those interested in regional customs as well as nature experiences will find a different way to explore the islands here than through snorkelling or diving.

Ironworking has a long tradition on Binongko. Residents are known for making high-quality kris daggers, machetes and agricultural tools. In Kendari, meanwhile, local markets sell traditional Buton woven textiles, which have high artistic value. Both examples show how differently regional culture can be expressed: through skilled craftsmanship as well as textiles sold at markets.

Regional Cuisine and Choosing Where to Stay

The cuisine also offers plenty to discover. Ikan Bakar Parape is a Southeast Sulawesi dish of grilled fish with a spicy-sweet seasoning blend. Kasuwu is traditionally made from cassava. Sinonggi is a sago porridge served with fish broth and sambal. The Liya Togo speciality Perangi is considered Wakatobi-style sashimi. If you like to include local dishes and traditions in your travel plans, you can consider these differences as a focus alongside the landscapes and activities.

When choosing a holiday apartment or house, it helps to first decide which experiences interest you most: coral reefs and marine fauna, villages and crafts, viewpoints or regional cuisine. The places and activities mentioned offer a range of starting points for planning.

For further inspiration, explore the subregions of Wanci, Bau-Bau, Ranomeeto and Tinanggea. You can find more destinations in Maluku, Bangka-Belitung, Banten and North Sumatra.

For the broader travel overview: Indonesia.