North Maluku
The historic Spice Islands, where the volcanic islands of Ternate and Tidore, old forts and clove plantations tell the story of the spice trade.
North Maluku lies in the northern Maluku Islands and consists of Halmahera and volcanic islands such as Ternate and Tidore; its capital is Sofifi. Ternate and Tidore were once centers of the clove trade, and the Portuguese and Dutch left several old forts. The sultans' palaces and volcanic scenery are worth a visit, and Morotai Island has World War II relics and fine dive sites. Tourist facilities are basic, so it suits travelers who enjoy history and off-the-beaten-path islands. The main gateway is Ternate's airport, with connections via Jakarta or Makassar.
Destinations
Itineraries
- Spice Forts of Ternate, Tidore & Jailolo – Based in Ternate, explore volcanic forts around the island, and cross the sea to visit Tidore and Jailolo on Halmahera.
- Maluku Spice Route: North to South – Fly from Ternate to Ambon, then take a boat to Banda, connecting the two major spice-producing regions of cloves and nu…
- North Sulawesi & Ternate – After exploring highlands, tarsiers, and Bunaken's underwater world, fly to Ternate to see spice forts, experiencing tw…