Buru Island Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for a memorable trip to Buru Island, Indonesia.


Introduction to Buru Island

Buru Island is a hidden gem located in the Maluku province of Indonesia. Known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and unique culture, Buru Island is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the off-beaten track. With diverse environments, from lush rainforests and pristine beaches to towering mountains and hidden caves, this beautiful island offers a plethora of outdoor activities and natural attractions for adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Buru Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors can explore the island’s rich cultural heritage and fascinating history by visiting the following museums and historical sites:

  • Siwalima Museum: The museum displays a collection of traditional artifacts, tools and clothes, as well as some information about the local flora and fauna.
  • Gunung Kapalat Mada: A historic site where the first king of Buru Island lived, and visitors can see the remains of the king’s palace.
  • Benteng Kapaha: A fort built by the Dutch colonial administration, which is now a site for visitors to see the locals’ resistance against the colonial regime.

Natural Attractions of Buru Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Buru Island is a natural paradise, filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities for nature lovers. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions:

  • Air Terjun Kali Biru: Located in the southern part of the island, this stunning waterfall is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water.
  • Gunung Waeapo: The highest peak on the island, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Teluk Gufasa Beach: This scenic cove-like beach offers clear waters, sandy beaches, serenity, and peace of mind. It is perfect for relaxation and has facilities for recreational activities, such as sea kayaking, snorkeling, and diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buru Island

Buru Island’s lush rainforests and mountains offer a variety of hiking and biking trails, giving visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island. The following are some of the most popular routes:

  • Gunung Kapalat Mada Trek is a challenging hike to the mountain peak and is recommended only for experienced hikers.
  • Pombo Island Trail is a fascinating trek through the dense jungle, ending in a beautiful secluded beach.
  • Wae Apo Trail is an adventurous hike to the highest peak of the island.

Best Things to Do in Buru Island: Activities and Tours

Visitors can engage in a variety of exciting activities during their stay on the island. Here are some of the best things to do in Buru Island:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: With crystal-clear waters and a myriad of marine life, Buru Island offers an incredible snorkeling and diving experience.
  • Birdwatching: The island is home to a diverse array of bird species, some of which are endemic to the island.
  • Visiting Local Villages: Visitors can explore the traditional lifestyle and customs of the local communities by visiting their villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buru Island

Visitors can customize their itinerary according to their interests and preferences, but here is a sample week-long itinerary for Buru Island:

Day Activity
1 Arrival + explore local village
2 Snorkeling or diving
3 Hiking to Gunung Kapalat Mada
4 Birdwatching + visit to Siwalima Museum
5 Relax at Teluk Gufasa Beach
6 Biking in Pombo Island + visit Gunung Waeapo
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Buru Island

Must-Try Dishes

Buru Island has a unique culinary scene, influenced by its rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-try local dishes are:

  • Sagu Woku: A traditional dish made from cassava flour and served with fish soup.
  • Sagoo Dumpling: Another delicious dish made from cassava flour, stuffed with beef or shrimp.
  • Papeda: A staple food made from sago and served with various sauces.

Local Beverages

Visitors can quench their thirst with some of the local beverages on the island, including:

  • Red Coconut Water: The red variant is sweeter and more nutritious than the green ones and is filled with minerals and vitamins.
  • Nira: A fermented drink made from the sap of the coconut palm tree.
  • Teh Tarik: A popular local tea that is sweet and creamy.

Where to Stay in Buru Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options on Buru Island, ranging from luxurious hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Victory: A luxurious hotel with modern amenities located in the heart of Namlea City.
  • Wisma Lais: A comfortable guesthouse near Siwalima Museum suitable for budget travelers.
  • Sagu Hotel: A mid-range hotel, located near the airport, offering comfortable amenities.

What to Buy in Buru Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home something unique and locally made from their trip to Buru Island. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to consider buying:

  • Sago Flour: Experts harvest and process the flour with sweat and experience. It will provide a perfect experience for those who love baking and cooking.
  • Sagu Utik: A handwoven bag used by locals for carrying essential items, these bags are now considered a stylish accessory.
  • Traditional Clothes: Visitors can buy traditional Buru Island clothing, such as sarongs and fabrics, ornately handmade with traditional patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Buru Island

Buru Island has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by the intersection of Dutch and Indonesian influences. The locals honor their traditions and customs, which include:

  • Traditional dances: Locals celebrate their culture by performing various traditional dances such as Cakalele and the warloka dance.
  • Traditional beliefs and Shamanism: The locals mainly follow Animism religion, mainly Shamanism. They believe in the existence of spirits and the supernatural in forests, caves, and streams. Visitors are expected to respect their views and not to disturb or interfere.
  • Greeting: As a sign of respect, visitors are expected to greet locals with a smile, and a handshake while facing the person to avoid disrespect. Proper attire is also appreciated, covering up legs, arms, or clothing deemed inappropriate.

Best Time to Visit Buru Island

Buru Island’s weather is hot and rainy throughout the year, with occasional dry days from September-November. The best time to visit is during the dry season for outdoor activities, but anytime is still suitable to visit and enjoy the scenery, culture, and experiences Buru Island has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buru Island

Do:

  • Explore the local villages and engage with the friendly locals, respecting their beliefs and customs.
  • Try local food, especially traditional dishes.
  • Take a guided tour to have more meaningful experiences and information.
  • Respect the environment by taking care of the scenery and not littering

Don’t:

  • Disrespect locals’ beliefs and customs.
  • Take any wildlife or leave anything behind while trekking.
  • Go on the tour unprepared without appropriate attire or equipment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buru Island

Buru Island is generally safe for travelers, but it is essential to take standard safety precautions, such as:

  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended or flaunting them as it may attract unwanted attention.
  • Stick the main routes and avoid remote areas alone.
  • Have copies of important documents such as a passport and ensure important documents are secured or left with trusted sources.

Health in Buru Island

Visitors should be cautious about waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases. It is advisable to drink filtered water or bottled water and always make sure to wear suitable mosquito repellent creams or sprays.

Getting to Buru Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buru Island is accessible through multiple options. Here are some of the options to reach the island:

Airports Near Buru Island

The only airport serving Buru Island is Namlea Airport with daily flights with Garuda and other regional airlines.

Bus Stations Near Buru Island

There are buses from Ambon heading to Namlea or Ambalau Port.

Other Options

Visitors can reach any nearby city/town with an airport and take a ferry ride to reach Buru Island via main gates at Pelabuhan Mas or Pelabuhan Amboina.

How to Get Around in Buru Island

One of the best ways to explore the island is by hiring a car with a driver. Visitors can also make use of shared taxis and buses to get around. Alternatively, visitors can rent bicycles to explore the island.

Where to Go Next from Buru Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After visiting the beauty of Buru island, visitors can explore nearby destinations such as Ambon and Lease islands for more adventure.

Conclusion

Buru Island is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered by travelers looking for a unique and off-beaten-track travel experience. Whether visitors are looking to explore the island’s rich history, enjoy its natural beauty or engage with the locals while learning about their culture, Buru Island is a perfect destination. By following this guide, visitors can experience all that Buru Island has to offer and create unforgettable memories.

Fort VOC Kayeli Fort VOC Kayeli