Itinerary for Travel in North Sulawesi around Manado for a week

Q: I would like to travel around the Sulawesi Utara besides just diving, which is, of course, my main aim there. I will be diving either at Bunaken Island or the Togian Islands, I haven’t decide. What other places can I cover in between? A suggested sample itinerary for week in North Sulawesi would be great!
– Evika

A: Sulawesi is an island that would take some time to fully appreciate what it has to offer. But with a one week plan, you can start with a taste of it. Most travellers make their way out here for diving, but other than that you can be sure to find pristine beaches and lots of peace and relaxation on some of the most beautiful islands in the world.

For a week itinerary, you may go along these plans along with your dive trips:

Day 1 – Manado

You’re most likely to arrive in Manado international airport. Take the day to go around this city, you may choose from lakes, farms, markets and temple for a good dose of culture trip.

Day 2 – Day trip to Tomohon

Just an hour drive from Manado up in the highlands, this place is popular for tourists and local alike. One of the top tourist attraction here is the Mount Mahawu volcano, accessible through a scenic drive through plantations and end with a 1-hour trek to the vantage point overlooking Bunaken Island and Mando Tua.

Day 3 to 5 – Diving in Bunaken Island

Now it’s time to head into diving, and since we only have a week, we would need to choose from either Bunaken Island or Togian Islands. Both are listed in the top diving sites in Indonesia, with rich marine life and pristine clear waters.

Day 6 – Day trip to Lake Tondano or Tangkoko Nature Reserve

If you would like to explore more of Sulawesi on land before heading off, you have two choices. Go to the Tangkoko Nature reserve to admire unique wildlife like Tarsiers, the smallest primate in the world, and also the Black Crested Macaque which can only be found in North Sulawesi. Or go to Lake Tondano to check out more local life around the lake and have some time to relax.

Day 7 – Departure from Manado

Fly out via the city.