Where Banggai is
The Banggai Islands (Kepulauan Banggai) are a group of islands east of Luwuk, the capital of Banggai Regency. The largest is Peleng; Salakan is the main town of the island regency. The area sees few foreign visitors, which is a large part of its appeal.
How to get there
- Fly to Luwuk: Syukuran Aminuddin Amir Airport (LUW), about 10 km from the town, has domestic flights from Makassar, Manado and Palu.
- Ferry to the islands: from Luwuk port across to the Banggai Islands; schedules depend on the day and the sea.
- On the islands: a private car for the roads on Peleng and a speedboat for island hopping.
What to see
- Lake Paisu Pok: a freshwater lake on Peleng with water so clear it looks like glass.
- Lake Paisubatango and Poganda Beach, on the same day as Paisu Pok.
- Island hopping to Batu Lobang, Long Beach, Oyama and Bontolan.
- Quiet beaches: Mandel, Pompon and Teduang Cinta.
- Waterfalls near Luwuk: Piala and Kamumu.
The Banggai cardinalfish
The Banggai Islands are the only natural home of the Banggai cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), a small black-and-silver fish with long fins and white spots. Collected heavily for the aquarium trade, it is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. If you snorkel in the shallows, look among sea urchins and anemones, where it shelters, and never touch or collect it.
How many days
Five days is a comfortable minimum, because the ferry and the drive to Lake Paisu Pok take time. Our Banggai Islands & Luwuk Escape covers all the highlights above in 5 days / 4 nights, with meals, a private car, a speedboat and a local guide. For other dates or a different pace, see the Custom Banggai Trip.
FAQ
How do I get to the Banggai Islands?
Fly to Luwuk (LUW), then take the ferry from Luwuk port to the islands.
What is Lake Paisu Pok?
A freshwater lake on Peleng Island in the Banggai Islands, known for its exceptionally clear water.
How many days do I need for Banggai?
About five days, including the ferry crossings and the drive to the lakes.
We organise private trips across Sulawesi from our base in Tomohon, near Manado: Bunaken, Tangkoko and the Minahasa highlands every week, Toraja and Banggai on request. These guides come from the questions our travellers ask us most.
