Togean Islands

Sitting just south of the equator in the protected waters of the Gulf of Tomini, the Togeans are an archipelago of around 60 islands and islets located off the coast of Central Sulawesi. Formed by volcanic activity, the larger islands rise from the seabed to jungle-clad peaks, whilst the smaller islets and rock formations appearing to sprout up from the water like mushrooms. Some of the islands are inhabited by seven ethnic groups, including the Bajau sea gypsies, and visitors are welcome to their main village where you can mix with the locals and get a feel for their daily way of life. The region was designated as a National Park in 2004, which protects a significant area of coral reef, forest and mangrove which support hawksbill turtle, green turtle and endemic species including the Tonkean macaque, Togian hawk-owl and Togian white-eye.