Halmahera Tengah – Weda Bay Diving Paradise in Central Halmahera
Halmahera Tengah (Central Halmahera) se trouve dans North Maluku province, in la partie centrale de Halmahera île. La capitale régionale est Weda. Weda Bay (Teluk Weda) is one of Indonesia's least-known yet richest dive destinations – proximity to the Wallace Line means unparalleled biodiversité in both marine and terrestrial life.
Attractions et activités
Weda Bay dive sites are de classe mondiale: préservé récifs coralliens, whale sharks, mantas and rare macro life – Weda Resort is an international dive base. Halmahera's rainforests harbour unique endemic species thanks to the Wallace Line effect: Wallace's standardwing bird of paradise, other birds of paradise and rare reptiles. Coastal villages de pêcheurs offer traditionnel lifestyles and boat-tour opportunities. Sawai village (on Central Halmahera's border) is a stilt-house pêche community at the meeting point of mangrove and sea.
Culture et cuisine
Local culture blends Halmahera and Malay elements. Traditional pêche communities follow the rhythm of the sea. The cuisine is fruits de mer-based: papeda (sago porridge), ikan kuah kuning (yellowish spiced fish curry), gohu ikan (raw fish salad), and kenari are local specialities.
Sécurité publique
Halmahera Tengah is safe but extremely reculé. Only visit dive sites with reliable operators. A local guide is essential for rainforest treks. Medical care is very limited; Ternate has the près deest more advanced hospital.
Informations pratiques
From Ternate airport, by speedboat to Weda approximately 3–4 hours. Weda Resort offre its own transfers. The best time to visit is March to November. Accommodation: Weda Resort (dive resort) or basic guesthouses in Weda.