In The Wake of Wallace: Indonesia & Borneo

Having made your way to Denpasar, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to ourgroup hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the welcome desk where you can collect your luggagecabin tags and speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute itemsfrom a local pharmacy or supermarket.The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.Accommodation: Bali Hotel (to be confirmed)

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabinnumber. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. After breakfast at the hotel, weboard a morning charter flight to Sorong, where our vessel the Greg Mortimer awaits.Transfer to the port for embarkation. You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important briefingsbegin. Enjoy the thrill of departure as we 'throw the lines' and set sail for Raja Ampat. Meet your Expedition Teamand crew at the Captain's Welcome Dinner.

Located in the ‘Coral Triangle,’ Raja Ampat archipelago has been described as a marine ‘species factory,’ and aMission Blue Hope Spot. Believed to contain the most biodiverse marine habitat on the planet, the waterssurrounding Raja Ampat are home to 600 species of hard coral and 1,500 types of fish – more than anywhere else inthe world – which makes for exceptional diving and snorkelling experience.Misool, a pristine corner of Raja Ampat, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and extraordinary marinebiodiversity. Established in 2005, the Misool Marine Reserve safeguards a vast 300,000-acre expanse, protecting itfrom destructive fishing practices. This pioneering conservation effort has yielded remarkable results. A scientificstudy between 2007 and 2013 revealed a staggering 250% increase in fish biomass within the reserve, with someareas experiencing a phenomenal 600% recovery. This extraordinary transformation underscores the power ofeffective marine conservation. Beyond its ecological significance, Misool offers unparalleled opportunities forexploration and adventure. Relax in the crystal-clear waters, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.Hike to the summit of Dafalen Peak for breathtaking panoramic views or discover the island's rich cultural heritagethrough ancient rock art sites.

In Buru Island, your adventure begins with a Zodiac ride to Tomahu Island, where a warm cultural welcome awaits.Explore the nearby Pasir Putih village, immersing yourself in the local way of life. Later, discover the underwaterwonderland of Fogi Island. Snorkelers and divers can marvel at the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life,including turtles, seahorses, and a dazzling array of fish. Kayakers can paddle through picturesque waterways,surrounded by lush mangroves. For those seeking relaxation, unwind on the pristine beaches, soak up the sun, andexplore the island's natural beauty. After lunch, embark on another adventure, whether it's beach time, snorkelling,or exploring a different island.

Wakatobi, a UNESCO-protected marine paradise, boasts an extraordinary array of marine life. Home to 750 of theworld’s 850 coral species and 942 fish species, this archipelago offers unparalleled diving and snorkellingexperiences. Explore the vast coral reefs, teeming with vibrant colours and exotic creatures. For those who preferland-based adventures, Hoga Island offers a serene escape. Embark on a guided nature walk to discover the island’sunique flora and fauna, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Birdwatchers can explore the island in search ofresident and migratory birdlife.

Taka Bonerate National Park, located south of Sulawesi, is a marine paradise renowned for its exceptionalbiodiversity. This vast atoll system, the third largest in the world, boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with life.Explore vibrant coral reefs, home to a dazzling array of fish species. Tinabo Island, the park's heart, offers a glimpseinto local life and opportunities to contribute to conservation efforts through tree planting, coral transplantation, orturtle release. For nature enthusiasts, guided walks reveal the island's unique flora and fauna, while birdwatcherscan spot a variety of avian species. Beyond the island, the underwater world beckons with its diverse ecosystems,from barrier reefs to steep drop-offs.

Komodo National Park, established in 1980, safeguards the iconic Komodo dragon and its habitat. These prehistoriccreatures, among the world’s largest lizards, inhabit Komodo Island and neighbouring islets. Located in Indonesia’sWallace Region, a global conservation priority, the park is a natural treasure trove.Encounter the Komodo dragon on a guided walk through open woodland, observing these magnificent creatures intheir natural environment. Alternatively, explore the ranger station or discover the island's rich birdlife. Pink Beach,renowned for its unique rosy hue, is a highlight. Composed of crushed coral, this stunning stretch of coast offersrelaxation, snorkelling, and breathtaking views.Gili Lawa Island is another gem within the park. Dive or snorkel in the underwater world, teeming with vibrant coraland marine life. Relax on pristine beaches or embark on a scenic Zodiac cruise to explore hidden coves. Join ourexpedition team for an unforgettable encounter at Manta Alley - the thrill of encountering majestic manta rays intheir natural habitat. If sea conditions permit, we'll explore other nearby reefs, offering diverse snorkellingopportunities. Alternatively, relax on a pristine beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Pink Beach earned its name for the way the beach can appear to have a rosy hue in certain lights. The color comes from small flecks of red coral mixed in with the fine white reef sand. With a few trees along the beach for shade, this stretch of coast makes a fine place to relax or enjoy a snorkel or dive in the crystal clear waters. It is possible to spot a striped clown fish nestled among the protective tentacles of its sea anemone host, or to see a grouper lazily swimming by a flamboyant soft coral. The reef here is now protected by law and the maturing corals are a joy to behold.

Saleh Bay, nestled on the island of Sumbawa, is a hidden gem that promises an opportunity of a lifetime. Thisexpansive body of water is renowned for its pristine marine environment and as a haven for one of the ocean’s mostmajestic creatures: the whale shark.Saleh Bay is characterised by its calm waters and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of marinelife. The surrounding landscape is a picturesque blend of lush greenery and sandy beaches, offering a serenebackdrop to your adventure.The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks. These gentle giants, thelargest fish in the world, congregate in Saleh Bay due to the abundant food supply provided by local fishing activities.Snorkelling alongside these peaceful creatures is an experience that will leave you awe-inspired. As you glide throughthe water, you’ll be captivated by their immense size and graceful movements.It's crucial to remember that whale sharks are protected species. Your expedition will adhere to strict guidelines toensure minimal disturbance to these magnificent animals. By observing these guidelines and maintaining a respectfuldistance, you can contribute to their conservation while enjoying an unforgettable encounter.While sightings are never guaranteed, the chance to encounter these majestic creatures in such pristine waters istruly unforgettable. The experience of sharing the ocean with such an extraordinary creature is a privilege that willstay with you long after your journey ends.

Semarang, a bustling port city, offers a captivating blend of Javanese, Chinese, and Dutch influences. Its colonialarchitecture, vibrant markets, and delectable cuisine make it a fascinating destination. However, the allure of CentralJava extends beyond the city limits. Borobudur, a world-renowned Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World HeritageSite, is an awe-inspiring monument, and a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Sailendra Dynasty. Itsintricate carvings and serene atmosphere offer a spiritual and historical experience like no other.The journey from Semarang to Borobudur is a picturesque adventure. As you venture into the heart of Central Java,you'll be greeted by rolling hills, emerald rice paddies, and charming villages. This idyllic countryside provides atranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Approaching Borobudur, the landscape transforms into a lush,tropical paradise. The majestic temple emerges from the greenery, a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe.Spend the afternoon exploring the temple's grounds, enjoying its serene atmosphere, and gaining insights into itsrich history.

In the late afternoon we arrive at the heart of Central Kalimantan, Kumai. As your expedition vessel arrives, you'll begreeted by the lush tapestry of Borneo's rainforest. This evening, experience the magic of the night as you glidethrough the tranquil waters of the Sekonyer River. This enchanting nocturnal adventure offers a glimpse into thehidden world of the Borneo rainforest. Keep a watchful eye for elusive creatures as you navigate the river. Therhythmic symphony of the jungle, punctuated by the twinkling lights of fireflies among the nipa palms, creates anunforgettable ambiance.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the lush rainforests of Tanjung Puting National Park. This iconicreserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, most notably the endangered orangutan. Cruise along the meanderingSekonyer River aboard a traditional Klotok houseboat, immersing yourself in the heart of Borneo's wilderness.Encounter proboscis monkeys, gibbons, and a kaleidoscope of birdlife as you navigate through the dense vegetation.Visit the renowned Pondok Tanggui Rehabilitation Centre, where you'll have the extraordinary opportunity towitness orangutans in their natural habitat. Learn about the park's vital conservation efforts and the dedicated workto protect these magnificent creatures. Continue your journey to Pesalat Conservation Education Centre to deepenyour understanding of the challenges faced by the park.Conclude your time in Kumai with a morning visit to Tanjung Harapan, where you can observe orangutans duringtheir feeding. This awe-inspiring experience will leave you with a profound appreciation for the delicate balance ofnature and the importance of conservation. Say farewell to Borneo and set sail for Singapore, enjoying an afternoononboard.

Kumai is a port town in southern Borneo and serves as the gateway to Tanjung Puting, one of the most important national parks of Indonesia. This largely undeveloped and wild national park possesses the largest and most diverse examples of coastal tropical heath and peat swamp forest of southern Borneo. Declared a National Park in 1982, orangutan and other primate species can be found in the park. Using Zodiacs and local boats to cruise into the Tanjung Puting National Park one of the main goals is to take a private tour of Camp Leakey, the landmark research station. Meeting Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas, one of the founding scientists, and learning of her 45 years devoted to the study, care and preservation of endangered orangutans will be a highlight of the Camp Leakey visit.

Disembark in the early morning and bid a fond farewell to fellow travellers before a transfer to the airport tocontinue your journey.