For lovers of nature and the underwater world, 3 kilometers off the North coast of Sumbawa Island lies Moyo Island, a pristine environment with rugged coastlines and a grassy savannah home to all sorts of wildlife. Moyo island has become more famous with the visit of Princess Diana and Mick Jagger.
Moyo Island has a variation in altitude of 0-648 meters above sea level and has an area of 30 000 hectares. Hundreds of butterflies can you see behind the shrubs, trees or in the middle of savanna. The island is inhabited by 21 species of bats, birds, macaque, wild pig, deer and snakes. Because it is still very natural, not advisable to enter the island without a guide. In this island we could see the virgin nature, waterfalls and natural streams, as well as the beauty beneath the sea. In addition, hiking in the woods, along rivers and waterfalls as well as exploration of caves by foot, can be an alternative activity.
Moyo is surrounded by beautiful untouched coral reefs which are ideal for snorkeling. You can enjoy the marine parks that make up the soft and hard coral formations, sponges and crustaceans, sharks with a length of approximately two meters, anemones, pelagic, eels, groupers and even mantas, all there. If you are lucky, you can see a bunch of flying fish. If you want to dive, you can do around the Medang Island, located on Northwest Moyo Island, just contact the Laguna Biru Resort on the outskirts of the town of Sumbawa Besar. These experiences in the tropical warm waters of Indonesia will be unforgettable.
Two thirds of the island is a natural reserve. Wildlife here includes deer, feral cattle and a variety of different types of birds. From great billed herons, spotted brahminy kites to white bellied sea eagles – bird watchers will be in for a treat with the amount of birds that make this island their home. In the woods there is the Cave of Ai Manis to be attained by a little climbing. This is the nest of hundreds of bats. In addition, there are Brang Rea (Big River) waterfalls located in the middle of the island. Approximately 86 of 124 bird species in Sumbawa, can be found in this island. Inhabitants of the island is an endangered bird species, the yellow-headed Parrot and Megapode bird.
Archeology and cultural buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to Batu Tering traditional village where you can see the remains of an extinct megalithic culture. After you check in with the village chief, ask for a guide to show you round Airnung where you can see the remains of old rulers and ancient relief carvings.
How to get there…
Travelling by car can be taken from Sumbawa Besar to Ai Bari, a coastal village located about 20 km north of Sumbawa Besar. Travel from Ai Bari to Moyo Island is about 15 minutes by speedboat, or use the "ketinting" ship. One of the fishermen who always provide this transportation is Mr. Lahi who are used to receiving foreign visitors. Or if you want an easier way, Tambora Hotels and Golden Beach Hotel in Sumbawa Besar, can arrange trips to the island. You may also go in person to the jetty at Muara Kali and bargain for a boat. There is the option of taking a faster, more expensive speed boat or, if the wind is suitable, sail across in a local fishing outrigger. The outrigger takes double the time but it is a peaceful and pleasant way to soak up the atmosphere.
To Stay
The Amawana Resort is truly a remote paradise. Located in the island’s reserve, you will never be bothered by distractions from the outside world. This secluded and intimate hotel has attracted world famous guests including Princess Diana. Guests stay in tailor made tents where curious deer may just peek in as they walk by. Many travelers come to Moyo on a day trip from Sumbawa however there is basic accommodation available at the nature conservation post at Tanjung Pasir.
LOCATION
SCBS8EZJZPD5
