The silhouette of Banda Gunung Api greets you in the heart of the Banda archipelago. There is no more fabulous way to wake up than with a cup of coffee in front of “The Etna of Banda Sea.” Banda Api is an active volcano with a massive seven kilometer-wide caldera. A 5-minute boat ride from Banda Neira will take you to Banda Api Island, where you can hike to the top at 640 meters. Very little has changed in this area since Europeans first arrived in 1512. Around Banda Api, are blooming hard coral gardens that are unlike any other within the Coral Triangle. Spot a fantastic variety of birds, including frigates and shearwaters. There is an impressive volcanic cave directly facing the ocean, where you can snorkel and swim underneath a colony of fruit bats. Add to it a magnificent 360-degree view of the Banda Islands, following a challenging half-day trek to the top. Prepare to be blown away.
