North Maluku

North Maluku

Provinsi Maluku Utara

Scroll Down

Provinsi Maluku Utara

North Maluku is a province in the northern part of the Maluku Islands, centered around major islands such as Halmahera, Ternate, Tidore, Bacan, and Morotai. Historically known as the global heart of the clove and nutmeg trade, the region drew merchants from Arabia, China, Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands. The powerful Islamic Sultanates of Ternate and Tidore shaped the politics, trade routes, and culture of Eastern Indonesia for centuries. Today, North Maluku blends volcanic landscapes, tropical rainforests, crystal-clear bays, and rich marine life. Its people—Ternate, Tidore, Tobelo, Galela, Makian, and more—preserve strong cultural traditions rooted in harmony and respect. The economy thrives on nickel mining, fisheries, spice plantations, and tourism. Iconic attractions include Sulamadaha Beach, Tolire Lake, WWII relics in Morotai, Mount Gamalama, and ancient forts of the Ternate Sultanate.

Best Time To Visit

October – March for the best sea conditions, clear skies, and comfortable weather across Ternate, Tidore, and Morotai.

Climate

Tropical humid climate with average temperatures of 24–32°C. Rainfall varies by island, especially around volcanic zones.

Highlights

Travel Etiquette in North Maluku

  • • Show respect to elders, Sultanate customs, and cultural etiquette.
  • • Ask locals for permission before entering traditional areas.
  • • Support local fishermen, markets, and traditional crafts.
  • • Dress appropriately in cultural or rural environments.
  • • Participate politely when invited to observe traditional events.

Things to Avoid in North Maluku

  • • Do not wear revealing clothes in villages or sacred locations.
  • • Avoid touching sacred heirlooms, graves, or ceremonial objects.
  • • Do not photograph rituals or adat ceremonies without approval.
  • • Avoid disrespectful jokes about religion, culture, or royalty.
  • • Do not litter at beaches, lakes, mangroves, or island areas.

Travel Tips

  • • Be respectful at Sultanate sites—many areas are sacred.
  • • Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious spaces.
  • • Ask permission before photographing women in traditional attire.
  • • Avoid disturbing relics, forts, or WWII remains.
  • • Keep beaches and lakes clean—many are protected zones.
  • • Speak politely; locals value respect and gentle communication.

Popular Foods

  • • Papeda — sago porridge paired with fresh yellow fish broth.
  • • Gohu Ikan — Maluku’s signature raw tuna with lime, chilies, and basil.
  • • Ikan Bakar Colo-colo — grilled fish served with tangy spicy sauce.
  • • Halua Kenari — sweet kenari nut confectionery.
  • • Ikan Fufu — smoked fish with traditional spices.
  • • Nasi Jaha — glutinous rice cooked in bamboo.

Top Activities

  • • Snorkeling at Sulamadaha’s crystal waters and coral gardens.
  • • Hiking Gamalama Volcano for sunrise city views.
  • • Exploring WWII wreckage sites around Morotai.
  • • Visiting Ternate and Tidore Sultanate palaces and forts.
  • • Hopping between volcanic and coral islands around Halmahera.
  • • Trying authentic Maluku Utara cuisine at Ternate street markets.
  • • Enjoying sunset views at Maitara–Tidore viewpoint.

EXPLORE INDONESIA

Discover the Wonders of Indonesia’s Regions

Sumatra

Sumatra

Java

Java

Kalimantan

Kalimantan

Sulawesi

Sulawesi

Maluku & Papua

Maluku & Papua

Bali & Nusa Tenggara

Bali & Nusa Tenggara