Wakatobi, Marine conservation area in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia
Wakatobi is an island regency in Southeast Sulawesi composed of four main islands - Wangi-wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko. The territory features extensive coastal zones with coral reefs, bays, and smaller islets scattered across tropical waters.
The area was part of the Buton Sultanate for centuries before Indonesia's independence brought administrative changes. It was established as a separate regency in 2003, gaining its current status within Indonesia's modern government structure.
The Bajau seafaring people shape daily life here through their traditional boat houses and fishing knowledge passed down across generations. You see their vessels throughout the waters and waterfront settlements where this way of living remains actively practiced.
The best time to visit is during the dry season when waters remain calm and underwater visibility stays good. Island-hopping by boat is feasible, though visitors should expect limited infrastructure on smaller islands.
The reef system here hosts one of the world's richest collections of coral species and fish varieties. Some bays experience almost no wave action, creating unusually clear water where you can see far beneath the surface.
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