Around Maumere
Pulau besar
This rugged, 3,000 ha island is by far the largest in Maumere Bay; it is about 25 km offshore (45 min by speedboat from Maumere or the dive clubs). The vegetation of coastal areas is cultivation and secondary growth, with patches of beach forest and mangroves. The interior is covered by semi-deciduous forest easily accessible along numerous trails that enter from coastal settlements.
Key species
Bonelli’s eagle, Flores Green Pigeon and good range of forest and open country birds, Osprey, Brahminy Kite and White-bellied Sea-eagle around the coast.
Getting there
To reach the island, hire a boat from Sea World or Sao Wisata, or from the fishermen along the coast. The dive clubs charge well over $100 (although you may be able to get a dive group to drop you off). The fisherman charge around $75, but be careful of the sea worthiness of their boats.
General information
Even in the dry season (Apr-Oct) the seas can be choppy. You can stay overnight with the village head on the island, but bring your own food. The island is a nature reserve so you will need a permit, which you get from PHPA in Maumere,, cost IDR 25,000.