A hammock on a beach bungalow veranda overlooking a reef and a small island

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Practical information

Money, mobile signal, electricity, health, visas, etiquette and what to bring.

Summary

The essentials

Do not rely on finding an ATM on the islands; withdraw enough cash in Luwuk or Ampana. Mobile signal is patchy, and many places have electricity only in the evening.

Medical facilities are basic. Bring your own medicines and have travel insurance that covers evacuation. Check visa rules for Indonesia before you travel.

Last updated

Cash
Withdraw in Luwuk or Ampana
Signal
Patchy; some Wi-Fi at accommodation
Electricity
Often generator, evening only
Park fee
National park fee; ask your accommodation
Visa
Check the official immigration website

Practical information

What to know

  • Money

    Bring Indonesian rupiah in cash, in small notes, for accommodation, boats, park fees and shops. Cards are rarely accepted. Luwuk has several banks and the last ATMs before the islands.

  • Signal and internet

    Coverage is available near some villages but not between islands, so plan to be offline for much of the trip. Download maps and documents before leaving the mainland.

  • Electricity

    A few places have power all day; many run generators in the evening until around midnight. Fans may only work while the generator runs. Bring a power bank.

  • Health

    Medical facilities are basic, and serious cases go to the mainland. Bring medicines and a first-aid kit, and have insurance that covers evacuation. Do not drink tap water.

  • Visa

    Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or apply online for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) before travelling. Eligible countries, fees and rules change: check the official immigration website.

    Indonesian immigration (e-visa)

  • National park fee

    The islands have been a national park since 2004. Visitors pay a national park entry fee; rates change, so ask your accommodation for the current amount.

Etiquette

Clothing and village visits

Swimwear is fine on beaches and boats. In villages, cover shoulders and knees: a sarong or a loose T-shirt over swimwear is enough.

  • Ask before photographing people, and photograph children at schools only with the teachers’ permission.
  • Villagers do not expect money or gifts. If you are invited into a home, coffee or snacks make a good gift.
  • Do not hand out sweets or presents to children at random.
  • Walkways in the stilt villages can be uneven and have no railings in places. Wear sandals with grip.
  • Keep a respectful distance from wildlife; do not feed or chase animals.

Packing list

What to bring

Pack light. You will travel in small boats and may need to wade ashore.

  • Cash in small notes.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a long-sleeved rash guard.
  • Headlamp, power bank and dry bag.
  • Sandals with grip, and closed shoes or sturdy sandals for walks.
  • Personal medicines and insect repellent.
  • Refillable water bottle.
  • Your certification card, if you dive.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Is there an ATM on the islands?

Do not rely on one. Withdraw cash in Luwuk or Ampana before crossing.

Can I drink tap water?

No. Most accommodation provides filtered or bottled water.

Is there mobile signal?

Near some villages. Expect long periods without signal.

Do I need a visa for Indonesia?

Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or an e-VOA. Requirements change; check the official Indonesian immigration website before travelling.

Is travel insurance necessary?

Strongly recommended. Medical facilities on the islands are basic, and serious cases must be taken to the mainland. Choose a policy that covers evacuation, and diving if you dive.

Plan your trip

When to go

Seasons, sea conditions and a month-by-month overview.

Read when to go