Trip Highlights
Expert guides and our unique itinerary showcase the highlights of this mostly unexplored region. All from the comfort of sustainably-run villas.
Guests stay in villas that look out to Pantar Strait, a migration corridor for blue whales (September/October is prime season).
About This Trip
The Alor archipelago lies at the heart of the Coral Triangle, and is one of the most unexplored and undeveloped areas of Indonesia. Despite its short name, the Alor archipelago contains a long list of splendors, from fascinating underwater wonders to the unique cultures of its indigenous tribes. Our land-based trip offers ample time to explore Alor's underwater habitats via snorkeling or scuba diving, while enjoying a high level of comfort at our sustainable accommodations. The Alor archipelago is of volcanic origin and has very rugged terrain. Our expert guides will facilitate your exploration of the most pristine and untouched coral reefs of South Alor. We have worked with the owners of SAVU South Alor to design a unique itinerary that includes opportunities to see blue whales, dugongs, and thresher sharks.
Conservation Impact
Founded in 1969, Oceanic Society is America’s oldest 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ocean conservation. As pioneers of “eco travel,” our expeditions have been designed to directly support our mission. They not only positively impact our travelers, but also the people, places, and wildlife we go to see. A portion of your trip fees for this expedition will support organizations that we visit or collaborate with in Indonesia, as well as park fees that support the protection of marine areas you visit.
Dates & Prices
What's Included
All accommodations, roundtrip boat transfers, activities, and meals as described; ground transportation to each destination, airport transfers; and a dedicated Oceanic Society naturalist.
What's Not Included
International or local airfare (though we will handle the booking of the in-country flight to Alor). Any meals or activities not included in itinerary, alcoholic beverages, taxes, optional trip extensions, and gratuities. Alor Park fee is not included (US$115 for 10 days to be paid onsite). There is a single supplement fee of $3,000 with limited quantities available; 2 Cliff Villas are available for an additional $1,000/person (not available as a single). Click here for our full expedition terms and conditions.
Itinerary
Sample Itinerary
Arrive to Alor and transfer by car and boat to SAVU South Alor. Settle in to your room in time for dinner and an evening orientation from your guide. Oceanic Society will arrange your in-country flights to Alor from Jakarta.
On each of these days we will enjoy private boat excursions in the mornings and afternoons to snorkel or scuba dive (up to 2 dives a day) the most beautiful shallow coral reefs of South Alor. Our experienced guides will brief you about the marine life and point out colorful reef fish, vibrant corals, nudibranchs, and turtles, among others. Before and after your outings you can relax on the sundeck or enjoy a refreshing beverage and snack under the roof shade. One day of our itinerary will be dedicated to thresher shark conservation, and you will have the opportunity to learn about these endangered animals and thresher shark conservation efforts in Alor and beyond. Another day will be dedicated to whales, and with luck we may have the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle giants.
Accommodations
One of two Cliff Villas available at SAVU South Alor.
Each of the resort's five Beach Cottages boasts an ocean view
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:
