Tojo Una-Una Regency offers a range of ways to explore the area: the reefs and marine life of the Togean Islands, a trekking destination on Pulau Una-Una, and historic and maritime cultural sites. Togean Islands National Park is administratively located in Kabupaten Tojo Una-Una, Central Sulawesi Province. If you are looking for accommodation, you can first decide whether your trip will focus on marine life, volcano trekking or culture.
Togean Islands: Reefs and biodiversity
The Togean Tojo Una-Una Biosphere Reserve lies at the heart of the global Coral Triangle, which has the world’s highest diversity of coral species. Within the reserve, the forests and marine areas of the Togean Islands are considered unique because the islands lie on the Wallacea Line and the Weber Line. This brings together a broad ecological context and specific nature experiences on the islands.
The reef formations of the Togean Islands include fringing reefs, barrier reefs, patch reefs and atoll reefs. The area’s biodiversity includes 38 coral species and around 307 marine species. One fish is also closely associated with the islands: Paracheilinus togeanensis is endemic there and can be found at several dive sites.
The Togean Islands have suitable spots for snorkelling and diving. On Pulau Papan, coral and underwater fauna are attractions for diving and snorkelling trips. Another natural attraction is Danau Mariona in the Togean Islands of Kabupaten Tojo Una-Una: the lake is home to non-stinging jellyfish.
Island destinations and special access
On Pulau Papan, a sea bridge about one kilometre long connects Pulau Papan with Pulau Malenge. Alongside its coral and underwater fauna, Pulau Papan also offers a striking link between two islands.
Gunung Colo on Pulau Una-Una is a trekking destination reached on foot. Visits are permitted only when volcanic conditions are not dangerous. Check that this requirement is met before planning your visit.
Access also varies: Air Panas Marowo can be reached by two- or four-wheeled vehicles. Pulau Tilupan, or Desa Katupat in Kecamatan Togean, can be reached by speedboat or a katinting boat. Check boat availability and the condition of the landing point in advance for these destinations.
History and maritime culture
Desa Benteng is home to a historic site associated with the Kingdom of Togean. In Desa Kabalutan, Bajo maritime culture is presented as a tourist attraction. In Labuan, the Bajo settlement built over the sea around the village harbour is considered a visitor attraction and embodies local traditions. Each place has a different focus: Benteng centres on its historic connection to the kingdom, while Kabalutan and Labuan represent Bajo maritime culture.
Another nature stop is Permandian Alam Malotong, a clear, cool spring in Kelurahan Malotong, Kecamatan Ampana Kota, Kabupaten Tojo Una-Una. The range of experiences thus extends from reefs, lakes and a spring to island connections, trekking and cultural sites.
Further context: Central Sulawesi
In the wider destination of Central Sulawesi, Ampana is the usual port for the Togean Islands. Port and route arrangements can change, so check current connections before travelling. The annual Festival Danau Poso also offers a cultural perspective on the region: it showcases the natural landscape and cultural diversity of the communities around ancient Lake Poso. If you want to plan your trip around it, check the latest dates.
Kaledo, a dish made from beef bones and usually served with boiled cassava, is part of Central Sulawesi’s cuisine. It adds a regional culinary dimension to the area’s nature and culture.
Discover more destinations: Walea Kepulauan, Morowali, Wakatobi Regency
Back to the overview of the region: Central Sulawesi.
