Darwin - Keelung (Taipei) Expedition Molucca Islands, Raja Ampat and the Philippines: idylls above and below the water

The Moluccas are a vast archipelago in the eastern part of Indonesia. Their designation as “spice islands” dates back to their historical significance in the trade of nutmeg, cloves and pepper. An expedition area with volcanic landscapes, dense rainforests, secluded beaches and fascinating cultural diversity.

The Zodiacs are in their element here. They enable you to go ashore to swim, snorkel or simply relax – for example, on the Kei Islands, a paradise in the south-eastern Moluccas. They captivate visitors with their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and colourful coral reefs. In small villages, locals maintain traditions, music and dances – away from mass tourism.

Bandanaire, the main island of the Banda Islands, will enchant you with its blend of culture, history and natural beauty. Discover Fort Belgica and Fort Nassau from the Dutch colonial period in the 17th century with your experts. You can actively enjoy the island idyll by diving in colourful snorkelling areas and hiking to the Banda Api volcano, which towers over the island.

In the Raja Ampat archipelago – with its approximately 1,800 islands – turquoise lagoons, impressive limestone cliffs and pristine beaches together form a natural paradise. A world rich in biodiversity. Thrilling expedition days on water and land await you here.

The excitement builds as you cross the emerald waters around Pulau Misool in the Zodiac. The dramatic karst formations of the island dominate the landscape. Untouched nature reveals itself on land, while colourful reefs pulsate vibrantly in the sea. Manta rays glide majestically through the clear water, creating a fascinating sight. A paradise where nature and underwater life come together in pristine beauty.

Pulau Waigeo is a living expedition dream, characterised by exotic nature and culture. The colourful underwater world bustles in shallow lagoons. Limestone cliffs rise out of the sea like sentinels. Mangrove forests resemble bizarre labyrinths. The largest island in the archipelago is renowned for its biodiversity in the dense rainforest. With a bit of luck, you may spot the rare red bird of paradise and other exotic species, on which your experts will share fascinating facts.

Pulau Arborek is small but full of life. Between clear water and rugged limestone islands lies a charming village built on wooden stilts. The close-knit community of residents invites you to engage in authentic exchanges with them. A house reef stretches directly from the jetty, which is ideal for snorkelling. Corals in every colour and vibrant fish make every moment unforgettable.

A perspective like no other opens up to you on Pulau Piaynemo. As you ascend to the viewing platform, the archipelago spreads out majestically before you, lined with iconic karst islands. Like jewels sparkling in the azure-blue ocean – a popular photo motif. Every glance reveals new details, and beneath the surface of the water, excellent snorkelling spots invite you to explore the colourful underwater world.

The mysterious Talaud Islands – an untouched paradise just waiting to be discovered – lie far away from the well-known travel routes in the northern part of Indonesia. Pulau Miangas enchants visitors with miles of snow-white beaches, turquoise-blue water and a tranquillity that is deeply relaxing. Here, time seems to pass more slowly and every moment becomes a precious experience. Whether actively snorkelling over colourful coral reefs or unwinding on the beach, the island offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

The Visayas – an archipelago straight out of a picture book. Here, you can discover breathtaking landscapes, rare animal species, exotic plants and the vibrant culture of the islanders on your expedition.

 Bucas Grande Island seems almost heavenly, and you can explore its beaches and sea caves by Zodiac. The coastal fringe of the hilly limestone island with mangrove forests transitions into a rainforest in the interior of the island. As well as exotic plants, your experts will direct your gaze to dozens of different species of dragonfly.

An unimaginable diversity is revealed on Bohol. The bizarre landscape is made up of more than a thousand little hills, known as the Chocolate Hills – the only place in the world you can see the phenomenon on this scale. The cones formed by the wind and weather look like oversized molehills. Your experts will shed light on their geological formation for you. In the traditional villages behind the green curtain of the jungle, some more interesting insights await. With a little luck, you might be able to see the tiny primates known as tarsiers along your discovery trail.

In the Philippine metropolis of Manila, past and present merge to create a fascinating experience. Join your experts on a journey through Spanish colonial history: Intramuros, the historic old town with its mighty walls and churches, features an impressively preserved Spanish fortress from the 16th century. The National Museum also offers fascinating insights into the history and culture of the country. In between, the vibrant city offers a diverse culinary scene that combines Asian and colonial influences. Fancy something out of the ordinary? Then enjoy delicacies of Filipino cuisine such as the national dish adobo.

Basco, the charming capital of the Batan Islands, is quite atypical for the Philippines. A place unlike anything you would expect from the tropics: pastures lined with green hedges and cows, small villages with churches and the dark-blue sea crashing against rugged cliffs. You could think you were in Ireland. The people here call themselves Ivatan and speak their own language. Their ancestors, Austronesian settlers, arrived around 4,000 years ago. In 1783, the Spanish incorporated the Batan Islands into their colonial empire. Climb the Naidi Hills with their iconic lighthouse and enjoy the view over endless expanses. Basco is not a place for rushing, but for discovery.

What are your impressions of Taiwan? One thing is sure: It is not only the blend of tradition and modernity that will surprise you. With more than 260 peaks over 3,000 m (9,843 ft), Taiwan is almost reminiscent of the Alps. This is impressively shown on an excursion* to Taroko Gorge near Hualien – a natural wonder formed by the Liwu River. Suspension bridges, tunnels and waterfalls make every trail spectacular. The city of Hualien itself pulsates between relaxed coastal flair and urban life. The promenade along the Pacific is ideal for a relaxed stroll with views over the sea and mountains. Cafes and small craft shops characterise the scene, while colourful markets bring the region’s culture to life. Enjoy the famous mochi sweets or immerse yourself in the culinary diversity with fresh seafood and legendary street food.