Destinations - Alor Indonesia
Discover the Underwater Wonderland of Alor, Indonesia: A Scuba Diver’s Paradise
Nestled in the eastern part of the Indonesian archipelago, Alor is a hidden gem that offers some of the world’s most spectacular scuba diving experiences. While places like Bali and Raja Ampat often steal the spotlight, Alor remains a pristine destination for those in the know, providing untouched reefs, abundant marine life, and unique underwater landscapes that are second to none.
Why Dive in Alor?
Alor is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a group of islands renowned for their incredible biodiversity and crystal-clear waters. The area is less developed than other Indonesian dive destinations, meaning the reefs are in excellent condition, with minimal human impact. The strong currents that sweep through Alor bring in nutrient-rich waters, which sustain an astonishing variety of marine life.
The Marine Life
The biodiversity in Alor is extraordinary. The waters are teeming with life, from the smallest critters like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs to larger pelagic species such as hammerhead sharks and manta rays. One of Alor’s signature dive experiences is the chance to spot the rare and elusive Rhinopias, a type of scorpionfish, which is a favorite among underwater photographers. Additionally, Alor is known for its muck diving sites, where you can discover an array of fascinating and bizarre creatures that thrive in the volcanic black sand.
The Diving Conditions
Diving in Alor is best from April to November, when the seas are calm, and visibility can reach up to 40 meters. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F), but in some areas, especially near the Pantar Strait, thermoclines can drop the temperature to around 24°C (75°F), so a 5mm wetsuit is recommended.
The currents in Alor can be strong, some dive sites are better suited for advanced divers. That said, there are plenty of spots with gentle currents and shallower depths that are perfect for beginners.
Where to Stay
Alor’s remote location means that accommodation options are more limited than in other parts of Indonesia, but what’s available is comfortable and often caters specifically to divers.
I stayed at Alami Alor - a boutique resort on the remote Indonesian island of Alor providing both scuba diving and snorkeling services and specializing in underwater photography. Catering to a maximum of 12 scuba divers or 14 snorkelers, this resort is quiet, personal and I loved it.
Getting There
Alor is off the beaten path, and reaching it requires a bit of planning. The most common route is to fly to Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara, and then take a domestic flight to Alor’s main town, Kalabahi. From there, dive resorts typically arrange transfers to their locations.
Final Thoughts
Alor is a destination for divers who seek adventure and are eager to explore some of the most unspoiled and biodiverse waters on the planet. Whether you’re a macro photography enthusiast, a drift diving aficionado, or simply someone who loves to dive in remote, pristine locations, Alor has something to offer. The combination of exceptional marine life, stunning underwater landscapes, and a sense of solitude makes Alor a truly unique diving destination in Indonesia.
So pack your dive gear, and get ready to discover the underwater wonderland that is Alor. It’s a journey worth making for any serious scuba diver.