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11:20:48 AM
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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About Ternate
Ternate is a small volcanic island in North Maluku that was once one of the most important places on Earth - the world's sole source of cloves. The island's dramatic centerpiece is the 1,715m Gamalama volcano, which towers over a city of sultanate palaces, Portuguese and Dutch forts, and clove-scented gardens.
The Sultan of Ternate's palace (Kedaton) still stands as a museum, while Fort Oranje and Fort Tolukko recall the fierce European competition for spice trade control. The island offers hiking on Gamalama, beautiful crater lakes like Tolire, and a living Islamic sultanate culture that dates back 700 years.
Best Time to Visit Ternate
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March to May and September to November are the driest transition months with clearer skies.
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Next 14 Days
Photos of Ternate
Top Highlights
Gamalama Volcano
A 1,715m active volcano dominating the island - summit hike rewards with panoramic Maluku views.
AdventureFort Oranje
A well-preserved Dutch East India Company fortress from 1607, overlooking the harbor.
LandmarkKedaton Sultan Palace
The 700-year-old Sultanate of Ternate's palace, now a museum of royal artifacts and spice trade history.
CultureTolire Lake
A mysterious crater lake surrounded by legends, set against the volcanic slopes of Gamalama.
NatureClove Gardens
Walk through fragrant clove plantations that once made this island the most valuable land on Earth.
NatureTravel Tips
- 1Fly to Sultan Babullah Airport from Jakarta, Makassar, or Manado.
- 2Hire a motorbike to circle the small island in a few hours - roads are good.
- 3The Gamalama hike takes 4-6 hours - hire a local guide and start at dawn.
- 4Visit the sultan's palace for context on Ternate's incredible spice trade history.
- 5Take the short ferry to neighboring Tidore for more forts and volcanic hiking.
