Gunung Gamalama is the perfectly conical active volcano that occupies most of Ternate Island, rising to 1,715 metres from the sea. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia — there have been dozens of eruptions since records began, the most recent significant ones in 2011 and 2015. The approach roads around the island circle its base, and from anywhere on the coast it dominates the view.
The climb is possible with a local guide and takes five to seven hours return from the main trailhead on the lower slopes. The upper sections pass through montane forest before opening onto the volcanic crater. On clear mornings, the view from the summit takes in Tidore, Halmahera, and the islands of the Molucca Sea — one of the great panoramas in eastern Indonesia. Check current volcanic activity status before climbing.
Guides can be arranged through guesthouses in Ternate town. Start early to be off the summit before clouds build in the afternoon.