Sulawesi, or Celebes is the world’s eleventh largest island and is situated between Borneo and the Maluku islands (the Moluccas). With dramatic history coloured by tales of pirates, Spice Wars, colonial clashes, and civil struggles; Sulawesi is an emerging destination with something for everyone : from world class snorkling and diving sites, to jungle trekking and an array of authentic cuisine rich in spices.
Unveiling the highlights in the Northern Sulawesi, this 5-day journey takes you to the main entry to the province - Manado the capital city, pristine waters in Bunaken Marine National Park, the highlands of Minahasa; to Tangkoko Nature Reserve for the wildlife including the smallest primate in the world tarsius Tarsier, cuscus, black crested macaques, etc.
This package is perfect for those who are active and fit – wanting to discover the highlights in Manado and surroundings; snorkellers and nature lovers, as well as avid divers who can easily extend their stay to dive around various small islands in the Bunaken Marine National Park.
Day 1
Arrival Manado – Transfer to hotel
(No Meals)
Begin your trip with the afternoon flight to Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, the provincial capital of North Sulawesi. Meet your assigned guide upon arrival, then you will be transferred directly to your hotel of choice located in the city center. Check-in and the remainder of the day is free at your own leisure.
Overnight at your choice of hotel (Choose between Standard/Superior /Deluxe Hotel)
Day 2
Bunaken National Marine Park : Glass-bottom Boat Trip
(B/L)
Breakfast is served at the hotel’s restaurant. Afterwards, get ready to embark on a full day excursion to Bunaken National Marine Park. Located near the center of the Coral Triangle, the marine park provides habitat to over 300 species of corals as well as many fish, mollusc, reptile and marine mammal species – making it paradise for divers and snorklers. Pack some dry changing clothes and do not leave your sunscreen behind.
A short drive to the Marina Harbour where you will get onboard a motorized / glass-bottom boat to explore Bunaken National Marine Park, particularly around Siladen Island and Bunaken Island. Additional charge applies for full set snorkling gear rental. Arrive at the island, you can enjoy snorkling around the island or simply relaxing. Lunch is served at the local restaurant on the island. Sample some fried banana and enjoy a refreshing young coconut drink. Return to Manado in the afternoon and transfer directly to your hotel.
Overnight at your choice of hotel
Day 3
Minahasa Highlands
(B/L)
Breakfast at hotel, then drive towards Tomohon, the center of Christianity in Minahasa regency. See one of the largest Jesus statues in the world located in an exclusive housing complex. Continue driving and have quick stop in Tinoor to enjoy the view of the city from an altitude of 500 meters above sea level. For those who are curious, Tomohon has a local market where you can see some extreme staple food such as dog meat, bat meat (paniki), rats, as well as a variety of pork dishes (Upon request and not for the squemish). Lunch is served at a local lakeside restaurant facing Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi.
Continue your journey towards Hill of Love and hike up the hundreds of staircases sprawling on the sulphuric hill to see the five different places of worship that symbolizes the unity of people in Minahasa. Drive pass Pulutan village which is the center of pottery, then discover how the wooden house are built using knockdown system in Woloan village. Observe the workers constructing a prefabricated wooden house which will be transported and re-assembled in countries such as Argentina, Norway, Poland, Japan, and the United States. Continue your journey towards Linow Lake to enjoy the scenery of the sulphuric lake as you sample some local tea/coffee. Return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Overnight at your choice of hotel
Day 4
Manado City Tour – Tangkoko Nature Reserve
(B/L)
Breakfast served at the hotel then get ready to embark on a full day excursion. Visit the oldest Chinese (Taoist) temple in Manado, Ban Hin Kiong Temple in Chinatown area which was built in the 18th century. Passing the ‘Zero Point’ of the city, visit also the oldest Protestant Church in North Sulawesi Sentrum Church, and Monument of World War II. Lunch is served at a local restaurant in Manado. After lunch, transfer directly to Bitung district.
Drive for approximately 2 hours to arrive at Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve. Located at the foot of Dua Saudara Mountain, the Tangkoko Nature Reserve is comprised of rolling hills and valleys with a variety of hardwood trees and unusual plant life. Stretching almost 9,000 hectares, here one can discover the endemic and protected Tarsius Tarsier, black crested macaques, marsupials, and others. Ideal for those who like the outdoors, nature lovers, trekkers, and birdwatchers; the best time to visit is in early morning or in the afternoon to dusk. Dress comfortably, put on your trekking shoes and do not leave your binoculars. It might be too humid but protect yourself from the insect bites by wearing long pants (keep your insect repellent handy). Leave nothing but footprints. Transfer back to your hotel and arrive in the evening.
Overnight at your choice of hotel
Day 5
Departure Manado
(B)
Check out and you will be picked up at the hotel lobby at the designated time for a city tour around Manado. to the airport for your onward flight with wonderful memories of North Sulawesi.
