Indonesia: Pristine Reefs of Alor and the Savu Sea

About This Trip

Expert guides and our unique itinerary showcase the highlights of this mostly unexplored region. All from the comfort of sustainably-run villas.
Enjoy a stunning "house reef" accessible from shore that is so large it has three sections.
Guests stay in villas that look out to Pantar Strait, a migration corridor for blue whales (September/October is prime season).
In small groups you will discover the abundant marine life that ranges from small and fascinating bottom dwelling creatures to large pelagic fish and marine mammals.

The Alor archipelago lies at the heart of the Coral Triangle, and is one of the most unexplored and undeveloped areas of Indonesia. Despite its short name, the Alor archipelago contains a long list of splendors, from fascinating underwater wonders to the unique cultures of its indigenous tribes. Our land-based trip offers ample time to explore Alor's underwater habitats via snorkeling or scuba diving, while enjoying a high level of comfort at our sustainable accommodations. The Alor archipelago is of volcanic origin and has very rugged terrain. Our expert guides will facilitate your exploration of the most pristine and untouched coral reefs of South Alor. We have worked with the owners of SAVU South Alor to design a unique itinerary that includes opportunities to see blue whales, dugongs, and thresher sharks.

Read more: Underwater Adventures in Alor – Indonesia’s Hidden Jewel

Note on Trip Costs

Trip fee includes park fee and boat transfers.There is a single supplement fee of $3,000 with limited quantities available; 2 Cliff Villas are available for an additional $1,000/person (not available as a single). Trip prices does not include international or local airfare We will book the in-country flight to Alor as a group and bill you later. Click here for our full expedition terms and conditions.

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Conservation Impact

Founded in 1969, Oceanic Society is America’s oldest 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ocean conservation. As pioneers of “eco travel,” our expeditions have been designed to directly support our mission. They not only positively impact our travelers, but also the people, places, and wildlife we go to see. A portion of your trip fees for this expedition will support organizations that we visit or collaborate with in Indonesia, as well as park fees that support the protection of marine areas you visit.

Dates & Prices

Sep 22-Oct 3, 2024 (12 days)

Cost $5,995 per person (park fee and boat transfer included)

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Sep 22-Oct 2, 2025 (11 days)

Cost $6,595 per person (park fee and boat transfer included)

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Itinerary

The following itinerary is provided to give you a general sense of timing and activities; details for each day will be determined on-site based on weather and water conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Day 1 : Arrival to SAVU South Arrive to Alor and transfer by car and boat to SAVU South Alor. Settle in to your room in time for dinner and an evening orientation from your guide. Oceanic Society will arrange your in-country flights to Alor from Jakarta.

Middle Days: Snorkeling or Scuba diving On each of these days we will enjoy private boat excursions in the mornings and afternoons to snorkel or scuba dive (up to 2 dives a day) the most beautiful shallow coral reefs of South Alor. Our experienced guides will brief you about the marine life and point out colorful reef fish, vibrant corals, nudibranchs, and turtles, among others. Before and after your outings you can relax on the sundeck or enjoy a refreshing beverage and snack under the roof shade. One day of our itinerary will be dedicated to thresher shark conservation, and you will have the opportunity to learn about these endangered animals and thresher shark conservation efforts in Alor and beyond. Another day will be dedicated to whales, and with luck we may have the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle giants.

Day 11 or 12: Departure Depart for Jakarta and onward. For those staying longer, enjoy the chance to snorkel the house reef and some time for relaxation before the next group arrives.

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Accommodations

One of two Cliff Villas available at SAVU South Alor.

Throughout our trip we will stay at SAVU South Alor, newly-built, sustainably-run boutique accommodations that look out to Pantar Strait, a migration corridor for blue whales. The resort's seven spacious and private rooms are harmoniously embedded in the natural surroundings and generously distributed over the beach and cliff areas of the resort. The rooms all feature natural and traditional design elements and the materials were sourced locally. The five Beach Cottages are located at the swimming beach to the south of the Central Guest Area, while the two Cliff Villas are perched on top of the elevated bluff to the north, both with own private plunge pools. All seven rooms have a panoramic view of the Savu Sea.