panorama destination

panorama destination

Hidden Paradise of Morotai

Venture off the beaten track to discover the beauty of the “Hidden Pearl of the Pacific Lips”

What to Expect

Morotai, an island located in the most northern part of North Maluku province, Morotai was part of the Ternate Sultanate which was a vassal of the Dutch East India Company by the end of the 17th century. The word ‘Morotai’ was originated from Morotia – the dwelling place of the moro people, the mysterius and invisible men who are believed to live up until now, with their invisible largest town marked by Batu Kopi site on the island of Posiposi-Rao.

In the early 1942 during the World War II, Morotai was invaded by Japan. During 1943 – 1944, there were over 200,000 personels of US forces and their allies who reached Morotai prior to the counter-attack Battle of Morotai 1944; leaving many war remnants such as 2 rusty amphibean tanks, 7 airstrips, army dock, shipwrecks, as well as other war relics that are still unearthed. Morotai was also the millitary base for the Allied Forces in the effort to free the Philippines.

Strategically near to Palau island and the Phillippines and lying between Pacific Ocean, Sulawesi Sea, Halmahera Sea and Morotai Strait; Morotai regency comprises 33 islands, of which seven are inhabited, and boasts a coastline with clean white-powdery sands to golden sandy beaches to reef beaches. With a total area of approximately 4,301 sq km, of which 2,330 sq km are land and 1,971 sq km sea; Morotai has about 36 dive spots with notable spot to meet the black-tipped sharks. For advance divers who enjoy wreck diving, Morotai provides a spot with old aircraft wreck and sunken jeep from the war era that have been overgrown by colorful corals.

Venture off the beaten track to discover the beauty of the “Hidden Pearl of the Pacific Lips” with remnants of the World War II and wonderful marine paradise in Morotai for an enriching experience of the eastern of Indonesia. This 5-day package is the perfect destination for avid divers and nature lovers who seek tranquility in hidden paradise, as well as for those who are keen to discover the traces of the World War II.

What You Will Do

Day 1

Arrival Morotai – Transfer to Resort

(L)

Meet upon arrival at Leo Watimena Airport (OTI) on the southern part of Morotai island. Transfer directly to the resort. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure.


Overnight at D’Aloha Resort (Deluxe Bungalow)

Day 2

Traces of World War II

(B/L)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel then embark on a full day excursion to discover the rich history of Morotai and to observe the war relics. Visit Zum Zum Island using a motorized boat to see a monument to honor the leader of the Allied Forces, General Douglas McArthur. Explore the mangrove forest surrounding the island by boat, then try some snorkeling at nearby Kapa Kapa. Return to the resort for lunch and to freshen up. Visit World War II Museum and a mini museum to observe the collection of war artifacts which have been unearthed by a small group of self-funded men who dedicate themselves to protecting and to preserving war relics.

Visit also an important site for the Allied Forces, Air Kaca. In Gotalamo village nearby Daruba, there are two amphibious tanks from wartime. Visit the Old Army Dock & Navy Base before driving to Taman Kota located at Daruba in the town center. Enjoy the sunset while sampling local snacks and the herbal drink mix Guraka.


Overnight at D’Aloha Resort (Deluxe Bungalow)

Day 3

Island-Hopping

(B/L)

Breakfast at the restaurant, then island-hopping using a motorized boat directly from the beach shore in front of the resort. Visit Pasir Timbul and Kokoya Island. Snorkling at Kolorai Island then explore the small village on foot. Continue to Dodola Islands - two tiny islands connected by a sandbar. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach at Great Dodola, and walk to Small Dodola. Have the beach all to yourselves and then return to the main island in the afternoon.


Overnight at D’Aloha Resort (Deluxe Bungalow)

Day 4

Morotai Free at Leisure

(B)

Today is a day at leisure. You may opt for diving to meet the black-tipped reef sharks at Mititah Point, wall diving at Doko (Dodola – Kokoya) Spot, or wreck diving at Wamama Point for advanced divers. The energetic and adventurous can opt for a trekking journey to Cave of Nakamura and Raja Waterfall. Those who want to explore further can opt for an excursion to Rao Island or to Tabailengi Island via Bere Bere, followed by Gurango Cape. Contact the tour counter at the resort for more information.


Overnight at D’Aloha Resort (Deluxe Bungalow)

Day 5

Departure Morotai

(B)

Today is your last day at Morotai. After breakfast, enjoy morning at leisure until check out time and you will be transferred using a chaeffeured vehicle to the airport for your onward journey with wonderful memories to keep.

Accommodation

D'aloha Resort Morotai or other similar

D'Aloha Resort is currently the best accomodation in Morotai island. Located in Juanga village on the south part of the island, the resort has 25 wooden cottages equipped with ensuite bathroom and hot shower, air-conditioning room and satellite TV channels. The resort has a beach-facing restaurant that serves mostly local food and some Western food.

Inclusions