There are still some places on this planet that feel like secrets: undiscovered, untouched, unspoiled, and waiting quietly for those willing to venture off the beaten track. The Togean Islands, nestled in the heart of Tomini Gulf, Central Sulawesi, are exactly that. Remote and sublimely natural, they offer a rare kind of escape where time seems to slow, nature takes over, and every day is an adventure.
There are not many reefs left where the coral is still this vibrant, the beaches this untouched, and the local cultures this intact. The Togeans are part of the Coral Triangle, home to some of the richest marine biodiversity on Earth and they are right here in Indonesia, but not anywhere near the industrialised and urbanised centres we are so used to! They are a snorkeler and diver’s dream: crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, reef sharks, turtles, and swirling schools of fish right below the surface.
But the Togeans offer so much more than just life underwater. You can trek the lush paths of Una Una, an active volcano still steaming with energy. You can swim with stingless jellyfish in Lake Mariona, a surreal experience where nature feels almost make-believe. And you can visit Bajau ‘sea gypsy’ villages, where people live in stilt homes above turquoise waters and children paddle wooden canoes as effortlessly as walking. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s unforgettable.
Your Floating Safari – A Most Unusual Boat
This is Toki-Toki, a custom-designed wooden boat named after the Banggai word for “cheers”-because that’s how every day should feel. The Togean Safari Cruise is designed to eliminate the stress of travel and maximize the magic of your holiday.
While it is a bit of a journey away, when you get there everything is prepared for you. You just have to fly into Luwuk, and the Safari Team will handle everything: airport pickup, hotel stay, a refreshing trip to Piala Waterfalls, and your smooth transfer to the boat. No hassle, no lost time. From there, the safari begins.
Unlike typical tours where you stay in one spot and daytrip out, your boat Toki-Toki will take you from island to island, combining transport, accommodation, and adventure into one seamless journey. You’ll stay in 2-3 different resorts throughout the trip, handpicked for their charm and views, and explore hidden coves, remote villages, and underwater wonderlands along the way.
Be Prepared for Action!
There will be snorkelling right off the boat or at vibrant reef sites and diving, arranged with local dive centers which the team will set up. Then you can go hiking and trekking, including the epic Una Una volcano. Then head off on some village visits, from traditional fishing communities to the Bajau sea nomads, and finally gentle paddling, beach time, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets.
The boat is built for comfort, with room for just seven, a cozy lounge, sun deck, and a toilet onboard (which is rare in this region). It’s perfect for backpackers who want comfort without the luxury price tag. And for anyone who wants adventure! But there is no negotiating with five different vendors just to arrange transport, hotel, and excursions. The Safari Team do it all-, so you spend less time planning and more time living. This is a well-curated journey where the logistics are seamless, and your time is maximized.
The boats are crafted with heart-and the crew, all local, are trained to serve with genuine warmth. You’ll feel more like a guest in a friend’s home than a passenger on a tour. The Safari Team believe comfort doesn’t need to be flashy. It just needs to be thoughtful.
The Call to Adventure
Togean Safari Cruise was born out of a shared dream-to make the Togean Islands accessible without compromising the magic of discovery. They want more people to experience this pristine corner of the world in a way that’s immersive, comfortable, and respectful of the environment and communities you will visit.
It’s time to go to where Wi-Fi unplugs, but connection is found in the rhythm of waves and the quiet joy of untouched nature.
For more information and booking, go to togeancruise.com
