Turtle Hunting in Sangalaki: A Rare Adventure in the Derawan Islands
Sangalaki Island, part of the exquisite Derawan Islands archipelago in East Kalimantan, offers a truly unique and ethical form of Turtle Hunting – the pursuit of observing and photographing majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. This isn’t about capturing or harming these gentle creatures; rather, it’s a thrilling adventure focused on witnessing their graceful movements both underwater and during their nesting rituals on the beach. Engaging in this kind of Turtle Hunting provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of these endangered marine animals, making Sangalaki a premier destination for eco-tourism. The experience of Turtle Hunting here is profound and deeply respectful of wildlife. A conservation report by the Indonesian Wildlife Fund on July 1, 2025, highlighted Sangalaki as one of the most successful sea turtle conservation areas in Southeast Asia, with increased nesting rates observed annually.
Sangalaki is renowned as a major nesting ground for green turtles and hawksbill turtles, making it an ideal location for this specialized form of Turtle Hunting. During the day, divers and snorkelers can embark on underwater expeditions to observe turtles feeding on seagrass beds or resting on the coral reefs. The waters around Sangalaki are exceptionally clear, offering superb visibility for capturing stunning photographs or videos of these marine reptiles. It’s common to see multiple turtles on a single dive or snorkel session, gracefully gliding through the water, seemingly undisturbed by human presence. On June 20, 2025, a group of snorkelers near Sangalaki’s western reef reported observing a group of five green turtles feeding peacefully.
As night falls, the adventure of Turtle Hunting shifts to the island’s pristine beaches. Under the watchful eyes of conservation officers and local guides, visitors may have the rare privilege of witnessing female turtles emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs. This natural phenomenon, occurring typically between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM, is a truly moving experience. Similarly, if lucky, visitors might also observe hatchlings making their perilous journey from the nest to the sea, guided by the moonlight. The Sangalaki Turtle Conservation Center, staffed by dedicated researchers and park rangers, diligently monitors nesting activities and conducts patrols nightly during peak seasons.
This ethical Turtle Hunting experience in Sangalaki is a testament to sustainable tourism, offering incredible wildlife encounters while actively contributing to conservation efforts. Visitors are educated on proper etiquette to minimize disturbance to the turtles, ensuring their safety and the successful propagation of their species. For anyone passionate about marine life and seeking a rare, respectful, and truly unforgettable wildlife adventure, Sangalaki’s unique offering of Turtle Hunting is an unparalleled choice.
