Scuba Diving In Alor, Indonesia

Alor Diving Highlights

The diving in Alor, east of Komodo and Flores, has spectacular coral reefs with great diversity, sometimes strong currents but stunning topside scenery. The macro biodiversity in Alor is also spectacular. This volcanic island is great for muck diving and has one of the largest anemone fields. Unlike Raja Ampat or Paradise Island Bali that are well-known dive sites in Indonesia, Alor has been less in the focus. Thus, Alor diving will charm you by being unspoiled and will surprise you by giving you equally amazing dives if not even better than the popular destinations. These are some of the reasons why Alor is on the top of our list of the best diving in Indonesia.

Intro to Alor Diving

Alor Archipelago, where Alor island is the biggest, has made a great effort to keep the reefs healthy and protect them from overfishing. Local fishermen only use sustainable fishing methods to prevent pollution from fishing nets. Thus, the dive destination is covered with incredibly colorful healthy reefs and has an extremely diverse marine life. The fact that it is in a remote area makes the underwater world a diver's dream. The volcanic island gives you great underwater topography and is great for black sand and muck diving. Plus, it offers something for macro and big animal lovers both. You will have a chance to spot the smallest nudibranchs to seeing huge whales. Due to its strong currents, though, Alor is generally more suitable for experienced divers.

Alor Marine Life & Diving Conditions

The main marine attractions in Alor are excellent macro life, amazing coral and benthic diversity, and schooling fish. Though Alor is great for macro, you also have a chance to see some big photo subjects like mola molas, sharks, turtles, and rays. You are also likely to spot dolphins and pilot whales from your dive boat.

List of some of the marine animals that you're likely to see in Alor:

• Rhinopias
• Variety of Nudibranch
• Ribbon Sweetlips
• Lionfish
• Scorpionfish
• Shrimp
• Variety of crabs
• Seahorses
• Black Snappers
• Moray Eels
• Sharks
• Rays

Check out photo pro Erik Lukas's 2017 diving trip report and photos

Alor Dive Sites

The diving map of Alor can generally be classified into 2 main areas: Kalabahi Bay for macro photography and the Pantar Strait for wide-angle. All the dive sites in Kalabahi Bay are muck dives in black sand. The bay plunges to more than two hundred meters, which tricks whales into entering several times a year. In the Pantar Strait, the underwater landscape changes dramatically. It revolves around coral cover & fish life.

Upon arriving internationally, you can fly into Alor (ARD) from Bali (DPS) (via Kupang), Jakarta (CGK), and Manado (MDC) (via Makassar). If you're traveling solely to Alor, it's best to fly internationally into Jakarta for a direct flight.

How To Dive Alor

Alor diving is accessible through resorts and liveaboards. Most trips to Alor are combined with other dive regions. Find a liveaboard trip to Alor! or check out some other great Indonesian liveaboards!

Options For Combination Trips

Alor diving can be combined with Flores, known for interesting scuba dives in Maumere and Ende. Liveaboards often include Maumere and Ende on their route from Komodo to other dive regions in Indonesia. Another option is to combine Alor with Komodo, famous for manta ray encounters and the Komodo Dragon. For a comprehensive experience, combine all three islands or explore the Banda Sea with a liveaboard.

Best Time To Dive Alor

Alor diving is accessible year-round, with the best conditions from March to December. Strong currents are most prevalent in October and November. If you prefer macro or muck diving, any time of the year is suitable. For big animal sightings like mola molas, September is ideal.

Topside & Non-Diving Activities

Alor offers volcanic landscapes, active volcanoes, pristine white sand beaches, local village visits, and insights into local culture at museums and markets.

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
• Electricity: Generally 220 volts, with 2 round pin plugs (European Standard).
• Vaccines: Check the CDC website for updated information on recommended vaccines.
• Visa: Most visitors can receive a 30-day visa ($25) upon arrival in Indonesia.
• Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language.
• Domestic Flights: Be prepared for changes or delays with domestic flights in Indonesia.
• Safety: Travel and dive insurance are highly recommended for any dive travel.