PanEco

White sand beaches and untouched rainforest framed by coral.
This is the wondrous island world of Pulau Banyak.

Pulau Banyak is a unique island group lying off the west coast of Sumatra. Coral reefs, white sand beaches and untouched rainforest shape the scenery. Many of the over thirty islands are uninhabited, with most of the people living in the main town on Pulau Balai. Tourists only rarely find their way to this remote island world, making it feel as if time has stood still…

Pulau Bangkaru, the second largest of the islands, is particularly fascinating. Only a few rangers and scientists live here. The rare sea turtles have the beaches all to themselves…Visits to these islands are strictly regulated, but possible. The Pulau Banyak Foundation controls access to prevent too large a disruption, but visitors do represent a source of funds for the work of the scientists and for conservation.

Travel: 
The only way to reach the island world of Pulau Banyak is by sea. Ferries depart from Singkil and take between 4 and 5 hours, while rented speedboats reduce the time to between 1 and 2 hours.

Accommodation:
There are small eco-hotels on Pulau Palambak Besar and Pulau Tailana. More accommodation can be found in the main town of Pulau Balai and in Haloban.

Activities:

• Trekking through the rainforest
• Bird and sea turtle watching
• Island hopping by boat
• Snorkelling on the coral reef