How to get to Maba

Maba is a remote and authentic destination in the eastern part of Indonesia, located on Halmahera Island. Getting to Maba is a true expedition for those seeking pristine nature away from mass tourism. The journey here usually requires a combination of a flight to neighboring transport hubs followed by travel by land or sea.

There are no direct flights to the city, as Maba does not have its own commercial airport. Travelers will have to fly to one of the region's major transit hubs to continue their journey.

The most convenient option is flying to the airport in Ternate (TTE), which is approximately 104 km away and receives regular flights. An alternative is the airport in Sorong (SOQ), but it is located significantly further away — at a distance of about 372 km, which complicates further logistics.

Railway services are completely non-existent in this part of Indonesia, making it impossible to reach the destination by train. There is no train station in the city of Maba, as the difficult terrain of the islands is not suitable for railway construction.

The nearest major settlements, such as Ternate and Sorong, are also not connected to the rest of the country by a rail network. To travel between regions, tourists are advised to use aviation or maritime transport.

There is no centralized information regarding regular intercity bus services directly to Maba. In remote areas of the country, the transport system is often informal and relies on private carriers.

Instead of comfortable coaches, small minibuses or shared taxis operate here, departing only when full. We recommend checking seat availability and departure times at local bus stations in neighboring cities upon arrival.

Traveling by car to this region is a task for experienced drivers ready for complex logistics. The main route runs from the city of Ternate: first, you need to take a ferry to Halmahera Island (Sofifi port), and then continue by land.

The entire journey can take about 21 hours, taking into account the ferry crossing and road conditions. It is recommended to rent a car with a local driver, as the route requires knowledge of the area and the specifics of driving in remote districts.

A trip to Maba is an immersion into the authentic life of the archipelago, requiring preparation. To ensure a comfortable journey, follow these practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate is hot and humid, so choose modest, light clothing made from natural fabrics. Be sure to bring a raincoat and comfortable shoes suitable for walking on rough terrain.
2. Transport. Public transport is poorly developed. To move around the city and its surroundings, it is most convenient to use motorcycle taxis ("ojeks") or arrange private transport with local drivers.
3. Finances. Bank cards are rarely accepted. Always carry a supply of cash Rupiah, preferably in small denominations, as ATMs may be unavailable or out of service.
4. Health. Pack a first aid kit with antiseptics and stomach remedies. It is critically important to use high-quality repellents, as there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the region.
5. Communication. English is not widely spoken here. Download an offline translator or learn basic phrases in Indonesian to communicate at markets and with drivers.
6. Local Etiquette. Indonesians are welcoming but conservative. Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, and always use your right hand when passing money or food.
7. What to Avoid. It is strongly advised not to drink tap water. Buy only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes.
8. Important Nuance. Take into account the local concept of time ("jam karet" or "rubber time"). Schedules and agreements are often approximate, so allow extra time for any movements.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid daily difficulties and focus on the beauty of nature and the hospitality of the local people.