Banda Neira Set to Become a Geopark Jewel of Eastern Indonesia

TheIndonesia.co - Banda Neira, a remote yet culturally rich island in the Maluku province of Indonesia, is gaining renewed attention—not only for its breathtaking natural beauty and historical depth but also for its emerging status as a potential geopark.

According Antara News Agency, the local government of Central Maluku Regency (Pemkab Malteng) is preparing to nominate Banda Neira as an official geopark site, aiming to integrate conservation, education, and community-based tourism in one powerful initiative.

Banda Neira is on the cusp of something extraordinary. As it steps toward geopark designation, this small island in the Banda Sea reminds us that preservation and progress can go hand in hand. Its blend of rich geology, living history, and vibrant local culture offers travelers a destination unlike any other in Indonesia.

More than a place to visit, Banda Neira is a place to learn, connect, and appreciate the stories written in both stone and soul.

Whether you're a diver, a historian, a hiker, or simply a seeker of beauty—Banda Neira welcomes you to be part of its unfolding journey.

A Land of History, Nature, and New Promise

“Banda Neira is a destination of historical, cultural, and ecological importance. This makes it an ideal candidate for geopark designation,” said JR Wattimena, Head of the Central Maluku Tourism Department, during a press conference in Ambon, Maluku.

A geopark, or taman bumi, is more than just a protected area. It is a designated zone with outstanding geological value, intertwined with ecological systems, cultural heritage, and the empowerment of local communities. The UNESCO Global Geopark concept supports sustainable development through geotourism and educational outreach.

In Banda Neira, the intersection of natural wonders and layered histories presents a compelling case for such a designation.

Why Banda Neira?

Banda Neira, part of the Banda Islands archipelago, was once the epicenter of the global spice trade—especially nutmeg and mace—during the colonial era. European powers fiercely contested the islands, leaving behind forts, colonial architecture, and stories that shaped world history.

But it’s not just the past that’s compelling.

The island sits on a tectonically active zone and features stunning geological formations, including underwater volcanoes, ancient rock outcrops, and dramatic coral reefs. The geological history supports the educational and scientific value required of a geopark, while the island’s fragile ecosystems—lush forests, vibrant marine life, and endemic species—fit neatly into the ecological aspect of the criteria.

Cultural and Ecological Harmony

According to JR Wattimena, the push to recognize Banda Neira as a geopark aligns with the Indonesian government’s National Strategic Development Masterplan for the region. This multi-ministerial effort aims to elevate Banda Neira as a national historical tourism hub and an economic growth center for eastern Indonesia.

“Banda Neira is not only the land of nutmeg and colonial relics. It also holds unique geologic features such as underwater volcanoes and ancient rock formations that position it as a strong candidate for geopark recognition,” Wattimena emphasized.

In a geopark model, the focus is not only on preservation but also on people. The approach encourages community involvement in environmental stewardship while providing sustainable income opportunities through eco-tourism, local crafts, and heritage-based services.

Booming Tourism Signals New Potential

Tourism data supports the region’s rising profile. In 2023, Banda Neira welcomed 365 foreign tourists and 1,441 domestic tourists. By the end of 2024, that number soared to an estimated 57,000 visitors, indicating a major surge in interest, driven by its untapped beauty, cultural storytelling, and increased travel accessibility.

This growing popularity strengthens the case for geopark status, as international attention often brings greater conservation funding and educational collaboration.

Travel Guide: How to Explore Banda Neira, the Future Geopark

If you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, serenity, and profound cultural depth, Banda Neira is a gem waiting to be discovered. Here's how to get there and what to explore.

How to Get to Banda Neira

Reaching Banda Neira requires some planning, but the journey is worth every mile.

Via Ambon: First, fly into Pattimura Airport (AMQ) in Ambon, the capital of Maluku province. Ambon is connected to Jakarta, Makassar, and Surabaya.

To Banda Neira :

• By Small Plane: Occasionally, there are chartered or small flights from Ambon to Banda Neira, though schedules are irregular.
• By Sea: The most reliable route is by Pelni ship or fast ferry from Ambon. Travel time varies between 6–12 hours depending on the vessel.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from September to December, offers calm seas and clear skies—perfect for diving, hiking, and cultural touring. During this time, events and local festivals are more active.

Top Things to See and Do in Banda Neira

1. Fort Belgica

A 17th-century Dutch fortress with panoramic views over Banda Neira and the surrounding sea. Its five bastions and underground tunnels whisper tales of colonial struggle.

2. Banda Volcano (Gunung Api Banda)

Hike up this active volcano for sunrise views that reveal coral reefs below and mists above. The volcano last erupted in 1988 and is central to the island’s geological story.

3. Nutmeg Plantations and Historical Villages

Visit Lonthoir village or Neira Island’s nutmeg farms to learn how this spice once drove empires to war. Don’t miss tasting local nutmeg jam and syrup.

4. Colonial Buildings and Churches

Walk the streets lined with colonial-era buildings, including the Dutch Governor’s residence, old churches, and the Rumah Budaya Banda museum.

5. Snorkeling and Diving

Dive sites like Lava Flow and Batu Kapal offer some of the best coral reefs in the world, shaped in part by volcanic activity. Marine biodiversity is exceptional.

6. Local Handicrafts and Culinary Delights

Buy handcrafted wood carvings or try Banda’s unique local dishes like ikan asar (smoked fish) and papeda.