Aceh – Dessimated by an earthquake and tsunami in December 2004, Aceh has since recovered, thanks to international aid and the indomitable spirit of the Acehnese themselves. Today, the region has been rebuilt and regenerated, and is emerging as one of Indonesia’s most rewarding new tourism destinations. Visitors can witness many poignant and dramatic relics of the disaster, from the area’s Tsunami Museum, to fishing boats on rooftops and a 12,000-ton trawler beached inland. Aside from tangible reminders of the disaster, Aceh is home to jungles teeming with wildlife, misty mountain peaks and endless swathes of empty beach, beyond which a heavenly halo of coral gardens is beckoning.
Pulau Weh – Weh Island is kilometre zero for Indonesia; the most westerly spot in the archipelago, with an otherworldy beauty befitting its remote location. Weh is home to white sandy beaches and breathtakingly blue ocean, framed by the curving arches of palm trees and bathed in warm sunshine. For those who love snorkelling, diving, or simply enjoying the picture-perfect escapism of a signature tropical island, Weh is the way to go.
Day 1
Arrival Banda Aceh
No Meals
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our friendly and experienced guide, who will then transfer you to your hotel in Banda Aceh for accommodation.
Overnight at The Pade Hotel or other similar
Day 2
Banda Aceh
(B/L)
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full day of sightseeing around the city of Aceh, where you will see many points of interest relating to the tsunami of 2004. First up will be the Tsunami Museum, which features many engaging and poignant exhibits. Next, ‘PLTD Apung is a 12,000-ton merchant vessel that was lifted by the tsunami and carried 5km inland, where it now remains as a staggering example of nature’s destructive power. Another illustration of the events from 2004 is the sight of a fisherman’s boat perched on the roof of a house. This extraordinary scene gives a good impression of the human cost of the disaster. Thereafter, you will head to Pasar Aceh; a large and sprawling market where you can see the vitality of modern-day Aceh in all its glory. The market is located close to the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, which miraculously survived the tsunami and remains both a beautiful and spiritually important building to this day. Following a trip to the fascinating Museum Negeri Banda Aceh, we’ll finish the tour by journeying to the house of Cut Nyak Dhien - a famous warrior from Aceh’s war for independence; and then finally to Lhoknga Beach, where you can enjoy sunset on the picturesque white sands.
Overnight at The Pade Hotel or other similar
The mosque can not be visited during prayer time and appropriate clothing is highly advised (kindly do not wear sleeveless tops or shorts)
Day 3
Pulau Weh
(B)
After breakfast in your hotel, pick up and transfer to Banda Aceh’s Ulee Lheu; a ferry port on the mainland for a short cruise to Weh Island; a place renowned for its world-class snorkelling and diving. Upon arrival at Balohan, proceed to your hotel for accommodation.
Rest of the day at leisure
Overnight at Casa Nemo or other similar
Day 4
Pulau Weh
(B)
Enjoy breakfast at the Hotel, then the rest of the day is free at own leisure
Overnight at Casa Nemo or other similar
Day 5
Pulau Weh – Banda Aceh - Departure
(B)
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, drive back to the port at Balohan for a short cruise back to Ulee Lheu in Banda Aceh. Upon arrival, transfer to Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport for flights to your onward destination.
