Fun in Anambas
1. Snorkeling at Pulau Penjalin
Pulau Penjalin is one of the outer islands of the Anambas Archipelago. This is one of the reasons that Penjalin is still practically untouched by man's activities. In fact, not only is Penjalin uninhabited, but there also isn't so much as a single man-made structure on the entire island, or even anywhere near it. The moment you arrive on Penjalin, you'll feel like you're in the reality show Survivor. Penjalin's white-as-snow sandy beach, its crystal-clear cobalt-blue waters, and especially its pristine coral gardens, need to all be seen to be believed. So grab your fins and dive mask and snorkel away.
2. Experience a sea turtle laying its eggs on the beach
If you want to see something truly unique, then witness the laying of a sea turtles eggs live. Whilst there are a few turtle sanctuary islands that offer this in South-east Asia, your chances of actually seeing it are best when you go to one of the turtle islands in Anambas. Pulau Durai, on average, has up to 4 or even 5 turtles coming ashore each night to dig a nest on the beach in which to lay their eggs. In fact, according to recent marine biology surveys, Durai has the highest number of nestings of all the Anambas and Natuna islands. Seeing these majestic turtles lay their eggs right before your eyes will be unforgettable.
3. See Rafflesia, the world's biggest flower
Granted, you need to have Lady Luck by your side in order to see Rafflesia in all its glory, but when you do, it will be ever so worth it. It so happens that Rafflesia arnoldii, which is the species found in Anambas, is the largest Rafflesia in the world. The nature guides in Anambas tend to know where to find these spectacular flowers, so get in touch with one of them when you're there. Then all you have to do is hope that one of the flowers is in bloom, a perfect selfie moment if ever there was one.
