Seram, the largest island in Maluku, Indonesia, is a place of raw beauty and pure adventure. It’s a land where dense jungles meet pristine beaches, and where the culture and traditions of its people feel like stepping into another time. My seven days on this island were filled with incredible encounters, peaceful solitude, and a deeper connection to nature and humanity.
My journey began in Ambon City, the lively gateway to the Maluku islands. From there, I boarded a ferry to Seram, a couple of hours across calm seas. The trip was serene, with distant mountains and the endless ocean filling the horizon.
When I arrived in Seram, a car took me for 9 hours on winding roads to Huaulu Village, a small community nestled at the edge of Binaiya National Park. As we drove closer, the air seemed fresher, and the jungle thicker, signaling the transition from the modern world into one of nature and tradition.
Huaulu Village is one of the last places in Seram where people still live in a traditional way. The village is small, simple, and surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Binaiya National Park. Life here revolves around the land and the forest.
The people of Huaulu rely on the jungle for food, materials, and medicine. They grow crops like sago and cassava, hunt in the forests, and fish in the rivers. The homes are modest, built from natural materials, blending seamlessly with their environment. Their connection to the land is deep, and their respect for nature is inspiring.
During my time in Huaulu, I visited the local school. It was a humbling experience. The school was basic, with minimal resources, but the children’s excitement and energy filled the room. I had brought along some donations—school supplies like notebooks, pens, and crayons. Handing them out was a simple gesture, but the joy on the children’s faces was unforgettable.
The teachers, too, were warm and welcoming, sharing stories of the challenges they face in providing education in such a remote area. Despite the hardships, their dedication was evident. It was clear that this small school was the heart of the community, a place of hope and growth for the younger generation.
Evenings in Huaulu were magical. The air was filled with the sounds of the jungle—crickets chirping, distant bird calls, and the occasional rustle of leaves. The village sat quietly under a blanket of stars, with the towering peaks of Binaiya watching over it.
From Huaulu, I traveled to Sulaiman Village, a peaceful spot by the beach. The journey took me through lush landscapes, with glimpses of the ocean peeking through the trees. Sulaiman felt like a hidden sanctuary, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when there were no other visitors around.
One of the highlights of my time here was visiting a site where thousands of bats take to the skies at sunset. Watching them emerge in waves, their silhouettes darkening the sky, was a breathtaking experience.
My nights on Seram weren’t just for resting. I explored Binaiya National Park after dark, venturing into the jungle with a guide. The forest came alive at night, with glowing eyes peeking out from the shadows and the symphony of nocturnal creatures filling the air.
By day, I immersed myself in the island’s coastal beauty. I went snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Fishing with locals was another highlight—simple yet deeply satisfying.
I also visited a historical water source with ties to the Dutch colonial era. The site held stories of a time long past, adding a layer of history to the natural beauty surrounding it.
Seram is a place where life feels pure and unfiltered. The jungles, beaches, and the warmth of its people combine to create an experience that is as humbling as it is inspiring.
Huaulu Village left a particularly deep impression on me. Seeing how the people live in harmony with nature, their resilience, and their kindness was a reminder of what truly matters. The children’s laughter, the quiet strength of the villagers, and the beauty of the surrounding jungle are memories I’ll carry with me forever.
After seven days of exploring Seram’s culture, nature, and history, I left feeling a deep sense of gratitude. It’s not a place of luxury or convenience, but that’s precisely why it’s so special. Seram offers something real—something raw.
I’m already planning my return, eager to reconnect with its people and its wilderness. If you’re looking for a destination that’s untouched, authentic, and unforgettable, Seram is waiting for you.
