There is an amazing island called Pulau Weh in Aceh, in the northwest of Sumatra. Its wildness, mighty jungle and paradisiac beaches makes it the perfect place for those who love nature in its great expression and wants to feel it in their essence. Moreover, the Island has incredible reefs with plenty of marine creatures, perfectly fitted for diving or snorkelling.
In this small paradise you can climb to the small volcanos in the center of the island and see the views from there, go to an incredible waterfall in the middle of the jungle and have a refreshing swim, go snorkeling on the caves and see the sunset or explore the island with a motorbike and find the black sand beaches, the bunkers of the second world war, the hotsprings, the kilometre zero, the secret beach... However, the most amazing activity you have to experience is dive with one of the scuba centres of the island.
Use this link to find more about my experience around the island. Exploring Pulau Weh.
Islam is the main religion of Sumatra, and Aceh is a special province where Sharia law has been applied. For this reason have in mind that on Friday's mornings, plenty of shops will be closed as this is their praying day. On weekends, Pulau Weh becomes a touristic place for Indonesian people, so you will see it more crowded. I found very surprising watching all these people getting into the sea with their clothes on! Even their trousers and hijab!
How to get there
There are two ferries that departs from Banda Aceh every day:
The fast ferry that costs 80.000-100.000 Rp (5-7 €) and takes 45 minutes
The regular ferry that costs 25.000-50.000 Rp (2-4 €) and takes 1:30 hours
Nowadays the fast ferry departs every morning at 9:30h and afternoon at 16:30, the regular ferry depends on the weekday. The departure time can be changed during the day because of the weather, actually, the first time I went there, the ferry couldn't depart because there were big waves. The regular ferry has a big terrace at the top from where you can admire the sea, one day I saw dolphins from there.
Getting around
At the moment you arrive at the port, you will find plenty of drivers. They can take you to your accommodation by car, bejack or motorbike. I like taking the bejack because I can see the views while driving and it's easier with the luggage.
The most convenient way to see around the island is renting a motorbike. The price for one day is around 75.000rp and you can find petrol almost everywhere in small stands.
Where to stay
There are plenty of nice accommodations un Pulau Weh. Here I recommend you some of them that I like (not ordered).
Freddies Santai Samurtiga located at the northeast coast close to Sabang. They have a restaurant where all the guest's dinner together and the owner asks them how their day has been. Freddies
Casa Nemo located at the northeast coast close to Sabang. It is a bit expensive but very beautiful if you can afford it. Casa Nemo
Tien's Place bungalow located in the jungle at the northwest coast close to Iboih. The owner are a lovely Indonesian woman and a Deutch man. We had a very interesting talk with the owner, she can cook for you, if you tell them in advance. She makes a goodness "Rendang"! Tien's Place
Treetop guesthouse located between Gapang beach and Iboih. I really like the elevated bungalow with amazing views of the see. Treetop
Where to dive
Diving in Pulau Weh is one of the best things to do. The island is located between the warm water of the Andaman Sea and the cold water from the Indian Ocean. Thanks to this there are several currents that creates a perfect habitat for a whole variety of species with clear water and good visibility. Coral reefs, fan corals, turtles, reefs sharks, manta rays... are some examples of the animals you can see.
I hardly recommend you to go with Monster Divers. Three friendly Spanish guys will welcome and show you many different places discovering their nice world under the sea. A nice dive centre surrounded by wild animals and a kind staff will make your stay very comfortable. They also have a Spanish restaurant where you will be able to eat delicious "croquetas" among plenty other dishes.
This is the Island where I did my open water course and I started my love for diving. Use this link to find more about this activity, Discovering the world under the sea. And my experience diving here, Diving in Pulau Weh.
Monster divers not only offer courses and fun dives, but they can also arrange a boat trip in order to see the dolphins. If you want to know more about it click at Sailing with dolphins.
Comments