Embark on a captivating journey through North Sulawesi, starting with your arrival at Manado Airport and a scenic drive to Tomohon in the tranquil Minahasa Highlands. Explore Tomohon’s vibrant markets, trek Mahawu Volcano for panoramic views, and relax at Tondano Lake. Experience cultural highlights like pottery-making in Pulutan Village and white water rafting in Sonder Village. Discover local architecture in Woloan Village and unwind at Ranopaso hot springs. Conclude with a nature adventure at Kali Waterfall and Tangkoko Nature Reserve, known for its wildlife. This tour blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.
ITINERARY
Day 01
SINGAPORE – MANADO – TOMOHON
Upon arriving in Manado Airport, you will be transferred to your resort in Tomohon (approx. 1 hr. drive), nestled in the Minahasa Highland. This picturesque journey sets the stage for a tranquil escape. Upon arrival, you can enjoy your free time by exploring the resort and its surroundings, perhaps taking a leisurely walk to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Dinner will be served at the resort, providing a delightful end to your first day.
Overnight: Hotel in Tomohon
Day 02
TOMOHON
(MAHAWU VOLCABO TREKKING & MINAHASA HIGHLANDS TOUR)
After a hearty breakfast at the resort, you will start your adventure with a visit to the traditional food and flower market in Tomohon. This vibrant market is a feast for the senses, offering an array of local produce and colorful blooms. Following the market visit, you will head to Mahawu Volcano. From the trailhead, a 30-minute climb up the stairs will bring you to the crater’s edge, where breathtaking views await. From this vantage point, you can see Bunaken and Manado Tua Islands, as well as the bay of Manado. A walk around the crater’s rim, taking about 45-60 minutes, allows you to observe a steaming lake and experience the unique smell of sulfur emanating from the pools. After the invigorating hike, you will have lunch at Tondano Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the surrounding hills. Post-lunch, you will travel to Pulutan Village, known for its pottery-making industry. Here, you can also take a walk through the nearby rice plantations, gaining insight into local agricultural practices.
Overnight: Hotel in Tomohon
Day 03
TOMOHON
(WATER RAFTING & MINAHASA HIGHLANDS TOUR)
After breakfast at the resort, you will head to Sonder Village for an exhilarating white water rafting experience. After fitting your gear and receiving a briefing, the thrilling journey down the river will take about one and a half hours, leaving you wanting more. Each raft accommodates up to six persons, including an experienced guide to ensure your safety. After lunch, you will proceed to the Toraget Hot Spring where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. Stop at Lake Linow a volcanic lake that changes color according to the time of the day to enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea before returning to your resort for dinner.
Overnight: Hotel in Tomohon
Day 04
TOMOHON
(KALI WATERFAL & TANGKOKO NATURE RESERVE)
After breakfast at the resort, you will proceed to Kali Waterfall (approx. 30 min drive). The journey will take you through a rural village and a scenic walk to the two waterfalls. Be prepared for a misty environment due to the forceful spray from the waterfalls, and make sure to wear sneakers or hiking boots, as well as bringing a change of clothes. After visiting Kali Waterfall, the tour continues to Tangkoko Nature Reserve. The scenic two-hour trip to this ±8890-hectare reserve passes through many small villages. Lunch will be enjoyed en-route. At Tangkoko, you will be guided by a forest ranger and Safari staff in search of the Macaca Nigra (black crested macaques indigenous to North Sulawesi), hornbills, couscous and tarsier (one of the world’s smallest primates), and other unique fauna. After sunset, you will have dinner at a local homestay near Tangkoko before driving back to your resort in Tomohon.
An alternative option is to stay overnight at the homestay near Tangkoko. This way, you can enjoy an early morning hike the next day to observe more birds and the critically endangered Macaca Nigra as they search for food along the coastline. After the hike, you will have breakfast at the homestay before heading back.
Overnight: Hotel in Tomohon
Day 05
TOMOHON – BUNAKEN ISLANDS
Awaken to the melodic chirping of birds in Tangkoko Park. After breakfast, you will embark on a scenic journey to Bunaken Island (approx. 1.5 hrs. land transfer + 45 min boar ride), enjoying the picturesque coastal views before a delightful boat ride across crystal-clear waters. Upon arrival at your resort on Bunaken, nestled amidst tropical gardens or overlooking the azure sea, check-in seamlessly and savor a lunch featuring freshly caught seafood and local delicacies. Dive into Bunaken’s renowned underwater world in the afternoon, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life await, offering unforgettable snorkeling experiences with colorful fish, graceful turtles, and perhaps even reef sharks.
Overnight: Resort in Bunaken
Day 06-07
BUNAKEN ISLANDS
Over the next two days, the time is yours to indulge in the tranquility and adventure that Bunaken Island offers. Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves and the promise of sun-filled days ahead. Whether you prefer to unwind on the beach, taking leisurely swims in the crystal-clear waters just steps from your lodge, or snorkel amidst vibrant marine life right outside your door, Bunaken provides the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Consider renting a kayak in the late afternoon for a peaceful paddle along the coast, offering stunning views and a chance to explore nearby villages on foot as the sun sets. The local villages offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the island’s residents, with opportunities to interact and learn about their culture. For those seeking more exhilarating experiences, Bunaken is a diver’s paradise. Arrange diving excursions to explore deeper into the ocean’s depths, where you can encounter diverse underwater landscapes and marine species. Alternatively, charter a boat to seek out playful dolphins dancing in the waves or visit neighboring islands, each offering their own unique charm and attractions. Whether you choose to bask in the serenity of Bunaken’s beaches, embark on aquatic adventures, or immerse yourself in local culture, these days are yours to create cherished memories amid the natural splendor of this Indonesian paradise.
Overnight: Resort in Bunaken
Day 08
BUNAKEN ISLANDS – MANADO
Free and easy at your own leisure before transferring back to Manado for your flight home.
Package includes:
- All local land transfers including airport transfers
- All accommodations
- All accommodations’ breakfasts
- English speaking guide for the whole trip (driver is separate person)
- Entrance fee to all places of interest mentioned in above itinerary
- Local trekking guide
- Water rafting activities
- 2-way boat transfers between Bunaken and mainland
- Snorkeling equipment
Package excludes:
- Return international air tickets
- Travel insurance
- Indonesian VISA (ASEAN citizens are VISA-free up to 30 days)
- Tips for guides
- All expenses of a personal nature
PHOTO GALLERY
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