Sikka – Maumere Diving and Portuguese Heritage
Sikka Regency lies on the central-eastern coast of Flores Island, in East Nusa Tenggara province. Its capital is Maumere, the largest city on Flores. The region is one of Indonesia’s oldest Portuguese colonial memorial sites – the 16th-century Sikka Kingdom is known for its connection to Portuguese missionaries. Maumere Bay was previously ranked among the world’s best diving sites; after the 1992 earthquake the reefs have been slowly regenerating.
Attractions and Activities
Maumere Bay coral reefs for diving and snorkelling around Pulau Babi, Pulau Pangabatang, Pulau Pemana. The old Sikka royal village with a Portuguese-era Catholic chapel and royal house relics. Watublapi and Nita ikat weaving villages, where women create traditional ikat textiles with natural dyes. Koka Beach with two-coloured sea where the Flores Sea meets the Savu Sea.
Culture and Cuisine
Sikka people’s culture blends with Portuguese-Catholic influence – one of Indonesia’s oldest Catholic communities. Traditional ikat weaving is UNESCO intangible heritage. Cuisine is NTT-style: se’i babi (smoked pork), ikan kuah asam (sour fish soup), jagung titi (popped corn dish).
Public Safety
Sikka is safe and friendly. Medical care: hospital in Maumere (RSU Tc. Hillers). The most accessible part of Flores.
Practical Information
Maumere Frans Seda Airport with flights to Bali, Kupang and Ende. One of Flores’ key entry points. Best diving season April to November. Accommodation: hotels and guesthouses in Maumere.
