Ternate, a small volcanic island in Indonesia’s North Maluku province, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as one of the Spice Islands, Ternate was once a global hub for the spice trade, attracting European powers like the Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish, who left behind a legacy of forts and historical sites. Today, this island, nestled at the foot of Mount Gamalama, offers travelers a chance to step back in time while enjoying stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant local traditions.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore ancient forts, a nature lover looking to hike volcanic trails, or a beachgoer seeking crystal-clear waters, Ternate has it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top things to do in Ternate, along with practical tips on how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat. Get ready to uncover the magic of Ternate, Indonesia’s hidden gem in the Maluku Islands.
Why Visit Ternate?
Ternate’s allure lies in its unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. As the former seat of the powerful Sultanate of Ternate, the island played a pivotal role in the global spice trade, particularly in the trade of cloves. This drew the attention of colonial powers in the 15th and 16th centuries. Remnants of this era, including forts and the sultan’s palace, offer a glimpse into this fascinating past.
Beyond its historical significance, Ternate boasts breathtaking landscapes, ranging from the dramatic slopes of Mount Gamalama to the serene Sulamadaha Beach. The island’s warm, welcoming locals and rich cultural traditions, including festivals and unique cuisine, make Ternate a destination that feels both authentic and undiscovered.
Best Things To Do in Ternate, Indonesia
Have you ever visited a new place and been blown away by it? For many visitors, that happens in Ternate. It may not be as popular as other Indonesian cities, but don’t let that fool you. It is a smaller, beautiful, up-and-coming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You’ll be surprised by the unique activities and places you can explore at this hidden gem.
If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia and aren’t sure whether to include Ternate in your itinerary, read on. In this list, we have compiled some of the best things to do in and around Ternate. We have a hunch that you will be thrilled you included this city in your travel plans.
Things to Do in Ternate
Are you looking for things to do in Ternate? We provide up-to-date information on everything from scenic spots you can’t miss to local hangouts. Tourist attractions in Ternate: Below is a list of things to do and tourist attractions in the city.
Historical Sites
Ternate’s historical sites are a testament to its storied past as a spice trade hub and a battleground for colonial powers. Here are the must-visit landmarks:
1. Museum Kedaton Kesultanan Ternate
Located in the former palace of the Sultan of Ternate, the Museum Kedaton Kesultanan Ternate is a must for history buffs. Built in 1813 by Sultan Muhammad Ali and designed by a Chinese architect, this octagonal building resembles a lion sitting proudly on a hill, overlooking the sea with Mount Gamalama in the background. The museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, including geological, archaeological, and ethnographic items from the Sultanate.
A highlight is the sacred crown of the Sultan, believed to have hair that grows like a human’s, requiring an annual ritual cutting during Idul Adha. Visitors should dress modestly (no shorts) and remove their shoes at the entrance. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with free entry and a suggested donation.
2. Benteng Oranje
Benteng Oranje, or Fort Oranje, is Ternate’s largest fort and a key historical site. Originally built by the Portuguese as Benteng Melayu, it was gifted to the Dutch VOC by the Sultan of Ternate after they expelled the Spanish in the early 17th century. The fort served as the administrative center for the Dutch in the Maluku Islands and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Its thick walls and strategic location near the harbor offer insights into Ternate’s colonial past. The fort also houses a branch of the National Indonesian archive. Open Monday to Thursday from 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 7:45 AM to 11:00 AM, entry is free, and the surrounding garden is perfect for photos.
3. Benteng Tolukko
Constructed by the Portuguese in 1512, Benteng Tolukko is a smaller fort with a unique phallic shape. It was later occupied by the Dutch and British before being restored in 1996. Located in Dufa-Dufa village, the fort offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great spot to learn about Ternate’s military history. The fort’s circular bastions, made from coral and andesite stones, are a distinctive feature. It’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with no entry fee specified.
4. Benteng Kalamata
Built in 1540 by the Portuguese, Benteng Kalamata is a star-shaped fort that has seen occupation by multiple colonial powers. Restored in 1994, it offers panoramic views of Tidore Island and is a peaceful spot to explore Ternate’s colonial history. The fort is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with no entry fee noted. Informational plaques provide context for visitors.
5. Ternate Sultanate Mosque
The Ternate Sultanate Mosque is a cultural and religious landmark, reflecting the island’s Islamic heritage. While non-Muslims may not enter, the mosque’s striking architecture and prominent position make it worth a visit from the outside. Its minarets, some of which once extended into the sea, add to its unique charm. The mosque is a symbol of Ternate’s enduring Sultanate, one of Indonesia’s oldest Islamic kingdoms.
Natural Attractions
Ternate’s natural beauty is as captivating as its history. The island has volcanic lakes and scenic viewpoints. These showcase the island’s dramatic landscapes.
1. Lake Tolire
Lake Tolire is a stunning volcanic crater lake located at the foot of Mount Gamalama. It is known for its vibrant blue or green waters, which change with the seasons. The lake is divided into two sections: Tolire Besar (Large) and Tolire Kecil (Small), which are about 200 meters apart. Local legends add to the lake’s intrigue, including tales of invisible crocodiles and a village that was transformed into the lake due to a father’s sin. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty, take photos, or test the local belief that objects thrown into the lake never reach the bottom. The lake is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the entry fee is approximately Rp5,000.
Lake Tolire is located at the foot of Mount Gamalama in North Maluku. The entrance ticket costs Rp. This Rp 5,000 ticket allows you to visit two lakes, which the local community calls the Great Tolire Lake and the Little Tolire Lake. The two lakes are only separated by 200 meters.
The freshwater of Tolire Besar Lake is home to various species of fish. However, no one in the local community dares to fish or bathe in the lake. They believe the lake is inhabited by invisible crocodiles.
2. Lake Ngade
Lake Ngade offers breathtaking views of Tidore Island and Mount Kiematabu, making it a serene spot for relaxation and photography. The lake’s clear waters and surrounding greenery create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quiet escape. No specific entry fees or hours are noted, but it’s easily accessible by local transportation.
3. Batu Angus
Batu Angus is an observation area featuring ancient lava flows from Mount Gamalama. It’s a great spot for a picnic, with panoramic views of the Maluku Islands. The site is accessible with a small admission fee, making it an affordable stop for travelers seeking natural beauty and geological history.
Beaches
The beaches in Ternate are a highlight, offering clear waters and coral reefs, as well as opportunities for water activities.
1. Sulamadaha Beach
Sulamadaha Beach, Ternate’s most famous beach, is known for its black sand and crystal-clear waters. Located in the village of Sulamadaha, about 14 kilometers from downtown Ternate, the beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, offering visitors the chance to explore vibrant marine life and coral reefs. The nearby Sulamadaha Bay has even clearer waters and is a turtle paradise for divers. Food stalls offer local delicacies such as pisang mulut bebek (bananas shaped like duck mouths) with chili sauce. The beach is accessible by public transportation and has an entry fee of around 10,000 Indonesian rupiah (IDR) per car.
The people of Ternate have called this black sandy beach Sulamadaha for a long time. It is quite popular in Ternate. Every day, citizens of Ternate and the surrounding area go there for recreation, especially on weekends and holidays. Sulamadaha Beach is quite clean. The waves are not too big. Small coral cliffs overgrown with bushes and large trees are on the right and left sides of the beach.
2. Kastela Beach
Situated below Fort Kastela, Kastela Beach is a scenic spot for watching sunsets. Its historical backdrop and calm waters make it a unique destination for relaxation and photography. No specific entry fees are noted.
3. Jikomalamo Beach
Jikomalamo Beach is a quieter option, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Its calm waters and less crowded atmosphere make it ideal for those seeking a peaceful beach day.
4. Bobane Ici Beach
Bobane Ici Beach features two natural pools and a cafe, offering a relaxing environment for families and travelers. The beach’s beautiful scenery and amenities make it a great spot to unwind.
Adventure
For thrill-seekers, Ternate offers exciting outdoor activities centered around its volcanic landscape.
1. Mount Gamalama
Mount Gamalama, an active volcano, dominates Ternate’s skyline and offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail provides stunning views of the island and surrounding seas, but caution is advised due to its active status (last eruption in 2011). Check local conditions before hiking, and consider hiring a guide for safety. No specific entry fees are noted, but preparation for a strenuous trek is essential.
Cultural Experiences
Ternate’s cultural scene is vibrant, with festivals that showcase its maritime and traditional heritage.
1. Festival Kora-Kora
Held every November, the Festival Kora-Kora is a maritime celebration featuring traditional boat races and cultural performances. It’s a lively event that highlights Ternate’s seafaring history and is a great opportunity to engage with local traditions.
2. Legu Gam
Legu Gam, held annually in April at Lapangan Salero near the Kedaton Museum, is a cultural festival showcasing traditional music, dance, and performances. It’s a fantastic way to experience Ternate’s rich cultural heritage and connect with the local community.
Things to see on Ternate Island
Ternate: As an important trading center for centuries, Ternate has attracted people from near and far since early on. Many of them stayed. To this day, Ternate plays a central role in the region. Thanks to its good transport connections and proximity to Manado in Sulawesi, it is the gateway to the province of North Maluku.
Crater Lakes on Ternate: Picturesque and waiting to be explored on an island tour, the crater lakes are simply magical! Simply magical!
Forts on Ternate: Interested in the legacy of the past? Built during the colonial era to control the spice trade, Ternate is home to the remains of old forts left by the Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch. Their fragile charm is reminiscent of times long past and the enormous importance that the Spice Islands once held. It’s a magical journey into the past of the Moluccas!
The Little Sultanate of Ternate: Did you know? The Sultanate of Ternate is one of the oldest in Indonesia, and the royal family still plays a key role in island events today. However, the kingdom is currently without a ruler, as Sultan Mudaffar Sjah died in 2015, and his successor has yet to be chosen. It remains exciting!
Beaches and Snorkeling: Nestled in small bays and surrounded by crystal-clear water, Ternate’s short, dark, sandy beaches beckon you to swim and snorkel. In addition to the cozy atmosphere, you can enjoy beautiful island views. Because of the dark sand, pack a pair of bathing shoes as a precaution.
Ternate’s Picnic Areas: No matter where you stop, you’ll always have a wonderful view. Ternate isn’t a large island, but it has many impressive picnic areas. A tour of the local sights should therefore definitely include a photo stop at one of the viewpoints. Away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city, up the slopes of Gamalama volcano, you’ll find wonderful views that invite you to linger.
Ternate and its local volcanic mountain: Gunung Gamalama, is a stratovolcano that rose from the sea and over time became an island. Gamalama is an active volcano, and evidence of its previous activity is visible on the island. Do you dare climb it?
Mosques on Ternate: Although many different ethnic groups live here, Ternate is predominantly Muslim. Depending on population density, there are numerous mosques that enable believers to practice their religion.
Island of Spirituality: Islam plays a central role here, and everyday life is accompanied by long-standing spiritual traditions. A trip to Ternate, located in the Moluccas, is like stepping into another world!
Cengkeh Afo — the oldest carnation tree: How it smells! As the island of origin of the clove, Ternate still has numerous clove plantations today. Three of the world’s oldest clove trees are found on Ternate: Cengkeh Afo is hidden on one of Gamalama’s slopes. This trio miraculously survived deforestation carried out by the Dutch East India Company. Visit a spice garden, and don’t forget to buy spices to take home.
Here’s what everyday life on Ternate is like: It may be surprising, but Ternate is densely populated, and its busy streets give the island a bustling appearance, which is atypical of the rest of the North Moluccas. Accordingly, small stalls can be found everywhere, shaping the streetscape with their offerings.
How to Get to Ternate
Ternate is accessible by air and sea, making it relatively easy to reach despite its remote location.
- By Air: Ternate’s Babullah Airport (TTE) is served by regular flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, Manado, and Ambon. Airlines like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Sriwijaya Air operate these routes. From the airport, taxis (approximately Rp50,000) or angkots (minivans, Rp5,000) can take you to the city center, about 3 miles away. Flights from Jakarta take around 3 hours and 50 minutes.
- By Sea: Ferries and speedboats connect Ternate to nearby islands like Halmahera, Tidore, and Sofifi. Speedboats from Sofifi to Ternate take about 45 minutes and cost around Rp58,000, departing from Semut Harbour. Public ferries from Kota Baru to Sofifi run at 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM, returning at 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, costing Rp15,000 plus a Rp2,000 port tax.
By plane:
- Singapur – Manado (Sulawesi) – Ternate > Scoot 4 hrs. + u.a. Garuda, Wings 45 min.
- Jakarta (Java) – Ternate > among others Garuda, Wings, LionAir, Batik 4 hrs.
By ship:
- Bitung (Sulawesi) – Bastiong (Ternate) > 18 hrs.
- Jailolo (Halmahera) – Mangga Dua (Ternate) > 60 min.
- Sofifi (Halmahera) – Mangga Dua (Ternate) > 45 min.
- Rum (Tidore) – Mangga Dua (Ternate) > 10 min.
Once you’re on the island, it’s easy to get around with scooters (which you can rent from hotels), private drivers, or angkots from Terminal Gamalama, which is near the tourist market.
Where to Stay in Ternate
Discover the most popular places to stay in Ternate. Read recommendations from fellow travelers and take advantage of special hotel offers. Ternate offers accommodations to suit every budget, from guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Here are some recommended options:
| Hotel | Description | Proximity to Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Muara Hotel and Mall Ternate | A 3-star hotel with modern amenities, free WiFi, and a restaurant. | Comfortable rooms with an Indonesian breakfast, near Batu Angus and Mount Gamalama. |
| Emerald Hotel Ternate | Comfortable rooms with Indonesian breakfast, near Batu Angus and Mount Gamalama. | 15-minute drive from Babullah Airport. |
| Sahid Bela Ternate | Budget-friendly with clean rooms and friendly service. | Near Jatiland Mall and Al Munawar Mosque. |
Budget travelers will find affordable options with basic amenities at homestays like Kurnia Homestay and RedDoorz near Pantai Falajawa.
Where to Eat in Ternate
Do you want to eat like a local? Then don’t miss out on these top Ternate dishes and foodie spots. Ternate’s culinary scene, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Maluku dishes, is a delight. Here are some of the best places to eat:
| Restaurant | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Rumah Makan Swatu | Traditional Ternate cuisine, including popeda. | Central Ternate |
| Grand Fatmah Seafood | Grilled snapper and lobster with Tidore views. | Moya, Central Ternate |
| Kopra | Local coffee with spices, starting at Rp10,000. | Jalan Sultan Babullah, Ternate |
| New Floridas Restaurant | Seafood with views of Tidore and Maitara islands. | Kel. Ngade, Ternate |
Must-try dishes include popeda, a sago-based staple served with fish soup, and ikan bakar (grilled fish) seasoned with local spices like turmeric. For a unique experience, visit the Gamalama Spices Community in Tongole Village to enjoy traditional foods cooked in bamboo.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from May to September, is ideal for outdoor activities, as there is low rainfall and pleasant weather. Avoid peak holiday periods, such as Ramadan or Eid, as flights may sell out during these times.
- What to Pack: Bring light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Bathing shoes are recommended for Ternate’s hot, dark, sandy beaches.
- Cultural Considerations: Since Ternate is predominantly Muslim, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites such as the Sultanate Mosque. Learning basic Indonesian phrases, such as “terima kasih” (thank you), can improve your interactions with locals.
- Safety Tips: Check the updates on volcanic activity before hiking Mount Gamalama and consider hiring a guide. Exercise caution when swimming at unpatrolled beaches like Sulamadaha.
- Getting Around: For flexibility, rent a scooter. For affordable transport, use angkots and ojeks (motorcycle taxis). The main road around the island takes about 1.5 hours to complete, making it easy to explore.
Travel Considerations
Ternate is a predominantly Muslim island, so it is respectful to dress modestly, especially at religious sites. The island’s infrastructure is still developing, so plan for basic accommodations and transportation, such as scooters or angkots (minivans). With its off-the-beaten-path charm, Ternate offers an authentic Indonesian experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ternate worth visiting?
Aside from the historical value, Ternate City is famous for its beautiful nature. No wonder, tourists can find lots of stunning beaches, lakes, capes, and many others.
In which country is Ternate located?
Ternate, also known as the City of Ternate, is the city with the largest population in the province of North Maluku and an island in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia.
What is the religion in Ternate?
Most Ternate people are Muslim. As followers of Islam, they believe they will be judged based on their knowledge of the Qur’an and their deeds during life on earth.
Thoughts
We hope you find many things to do in Tarnate, such as visiting the local museums and galleries, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and enjoying the local cuisine.
Ternate is a captivating destination with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. There’s no shortage of things to do in Ternate, from exploring ancient forts and the Sultan’s Palace to relaxing on pristine beaches and hiking volcanic trails. Add in the vibrant festivals and delicious local cuisine, and you have the makings of an unforgettable adventure. Plan your trip to this Spice Island gem and discover why Ternate is a must-visit Indonesian destination.
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