Wanci

Wanci is the administrative capital of Wakatobi Regency in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. It lies on Wangi-Wangi Island, the main inhabited island of the Wakatobi archipelago, southeast of Kendari. The town functions as the political, economic, and service center for the regency, hosting government offices, markets, ports, and educational facilities.

Geography and environment: Wangi-Wangi sits in the Coral Triangle and is adjacent to protected reefs. The surrounding waters are part of Wakatobi National Park, recognized for high marine biodiversity and coral ecosystems. The area experiences a tropical climate with a wet and dry season.

History and administration: Wanci has historically been a maritime trading hub linking Sulawesi with island communities. Today it serves as the seat of the regency government and a hub for inter-island transport.

Economy and society: The economy centers on fishing and coastal trade, with increasing attention to sustainable tourism focused on snorkeling and diving. The town supports traditional crafts, markets, and religious and cultural institutions that reflect its diverse island communities and coastal cultures.

Transportation: The town is connected to other parts of Sulawesi by sea and by regional air links to larger hubs, with ferries operating to neighboring islands. A small airport on Wangi-Wangi Island provides domestic access, complemented by charter services and seasonal flights.