Tolire Besar and Tolire Kecil are two stunning crater lakes located at the foot of Mount
Gamalama in Ternate, North Maluku, Indonesia. Known as the “Twin Lakes of Ternate,”
they offer breathtaking scenery, mysterious local legends, and tranquil surroundings.
Tolire Besar is the larger lake with deep turquoise water, while Tolire Kecil, located near
the coastline, is smaller and equally picturesque. These twin natural attractions are perfect
for sightseeing, photography, and cultural exploration.
- Tolire Besar 💧 – admire the deep crater lake 🌋 surrounded by lush greenery 💚👀
- Tolire Kecil 🏞️ – visit the smaller lake 🌊 near the sea with scenic coastal views 🔭🤩
- Photography 📸 – capture the contrast ⛰️ between turquoise lakes 💧 and volcanic backdrops 🖼️✨
- Cultural Legends 📜 – learn local myths 👻 about the lakes’ mysterious origins 🧠💡
- Local Snacks 🌮 – try roasted corn 🌽 and coconut drinks 🥥 sold by nearby vendors 😋👍
- From Ternate City 🏙️: 25 minutes ⏱️ by car 🚗 or motorbike 🛵 heading west toward Mount Gamalama 💨✅
- By Air ✈️: Fly 🛫 to Sultan Babullah Airport (TTE) 🧭, then take a taxi 🚕 to the lake area 👍✅
- Guided Tours 🗺️: Half-day trips ⏳ available 🤝 including both lakes 💧 and nearby Batu Angus 🌋🎁
- Bring water 💧 and sunscreen 🧴 – there’s limited shade 🥵 around the viewing area 🎒✅
- Avoid throwing 🚫 objects into the lake – it’s considered sacred 🙏 by locals ❌⚠️
- Visit during the dry season ☀️ (June–September 🗓️) for clearer views 🤩👍
- Combine 🤝 with visits to Batu Angus 🌋 or Sulamadaha Beach 🏖️ for a full-day trip 🗺️✅
- Respect local beliefs 🙏 and avoid loud noises 🤫🔇 near the lakes ✅👍
- 7:30 AM – Depart 🚗 from Ternate City 🏙️💨
- 8:00 AM – Visit Tolire Besar 💧 and enjoy panoramic views 🔭👀
- 9:00 AM – Continue 🗺️ to Tolire Kecil 🏞️🌊
- 9:45 AM – Take photos 📸 and learn 📜 about the lakes’ legends 🧠🖼️
- 10:30 AM – Stop 🌮 for local snacks 🌽😋 before returning 🚗 to the city 👋
