Wakatobi Regency combines a strong focus on the marine environment with villages, historic buildings and traditional crafts. Matahora Airport is on Wangi-Wangi and makes getting there easier. By air, the route goes via Kendari to the airport; by sea, travel via Murhum Port in Baubau and then take a ferry to Wanci Port. Check the latest schedules and operators before your trip.
Sea, islands and nature
Wakatobi National Park is located within Wakatobi Regency. Its area consists of 97 percent marine or water areas and 3 percent land, including islands. This gives a trip a clear focus: many of the most distinctive natural experiences are on and beneath the water, while individual islands offer their own cultural and scenic destinations. According to UNESCO, the national park is home to at least 396 coral species and 590 fish species. Its marine areas are also habitats for various species of turtle, dugongs, dolphins and other whales.
Diving and snorkelling are possible at suitable locations with local operators who know the waters and conservation rules. Choose a location to match your abilities and consider the relevant local conditions when planning. This keeps the marine focus tied to specific choices, rather than assuming every activity is equally available everywhere.
Tomia, Kaledupa and Hoga: different highlights
Tomia has more than 40 named and mapped dive sites. Puncak Khayangan offers a different perspective on the same island: from the viewpoint, the scenery stretches across green savannah landscapes to the deep-blue sea. After a speedboat ride, a gentle hike of around 30 minutes follows. Diving and the viewpoint thus offer two different ways to experience Tomia: from the sea or with a view across the landscape.
On Kaledupa, Sombano Lake is a brackish lake and is considered a habitat for rare red-blood shrimp. You can reach it on foot from Sombano Beach or by motorbike from Sombano village. Hoga Island has white-sand beaches and calm waters suited to relaxed snorkelling. Boats from the main harbour take visitors to the island, where local homestays offer overnight stays.
Villages, history and crafts
Kahianga is an Adat village in the Tomia Timur District that preserves traditional customs and cultural values. Those interested in growing local food crops can take a one-day Agroedukasi package there, which involves hands-on participation in planting, tending or harvesting. This practical activity differs from a visit focused mainly on historic sites or cultural performances.
Liya Togo is a village with a strong cultural and historical character in the South Wangi-Wangi District. Liya Fort, also known as the Royal Fort, is a relic of the Buton Kingdom. Built from large mountain stones, it covers 52 hectares and has three rings of walls. The Mubarok Mosque stands within the fort; it dates back to 1546 and features early 20th-century architecture. In Liya Togo, you can also watch the Lariangi dance performed by village women and see Homoru fabrics being woven. The fabric is used for sarongs, shawls, headscarves and bags. If dance or weaving is especially important to you, check in advance whether a performance or demonstration will be available during your visit.
History and crafts are also highlights on other islands: Patua Fort on Tomia served to protect against invaders and as the settlement’s centre. The village of Pajam on Kaledupa is known for its long tradition of handwoven textiles such as sarongs and shawls. On Binongko, you can watch steel being forged, shaped and sharpened using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Choose your priorities and look for accommodation
The experiences described are spread across several islands and differ considerably: Tomia combines mapped dive sites with a viewpoint, Kaledupa offers the brackish lake and the textile village of Pajam, while Binongko is known for traditional blacksmithing. When looking for a holiday rental, it therefore makes sense to prioritise the islands and activities that interest you most.
Parende is also part of Wakatobi’s culinary profile: this fish soup is made with fresh marine fish, sautéed onions, lemongrass, turmeric and chilli peppers, and is traditionally served on special occasions. It adds another regional touch to the island and cultural experiences, without every visit needing to follow the same itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Morowali, Tojo Una-Una Regency.
Go to the main travel overview: Central Sulawesi.
