Explore Manado, North Sulawesi

Unveiling the highlights in the Northern Sulawesi and the splendour of nature, this 4-day journey takes you to the main entry to the province – Manado the capital city, then pristine waters in Bunaken Marine National Park, to the highlands of Minahasa to explore the culture, local cuisine, lakes and beautiful sceneries.

This package is perfect for those who would like to discover the highlights of Manado and surroundings on a leisurely pace; snorkelers 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.

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrival Manado – Transfer to hotel

On Arrival at 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 remain of the day is free at your own leisure. Overnight at Aston Manado

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, mollusk, 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 Aston Manado

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).

Drive to Mahawu Praying Hill in Tomohon showcasing amazing view of Lokon Volcano and its twin Mount Epung. One can enjoy the cool mountain air and a leisurely stroll at this great spot which also features Grottoes of Maria, semicircular amphitheatre and the Way of Cross. Lunch is served at a local lakeside restaurant facing Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi. Continue your journey towards Pulutan village which is the center of pottery. 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 Aston Manado

Day 4 : Departure Manado (B/L/-)

Breakfast served at the hotel. Check out and you will be picked up at the hotel lobby at the designated time for a city tour around Manado. 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 the airport for your onward flight with wonderful memories of North Sulawesi.

This ‘Explore Manado’ package includes:

- - - 3 – nights accommodation at your chosen Hotel, based on twin-sharing (2 persons per room)
    - Meals mentioned in the itinerary as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    - Private transportation in a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle
    - Boat during activities
    - Activities and excursions as per itinerary
    - Bottled drinking water during transfers and tours
    - Tours and activities as indicated in the itinerary
    - Professional and licensed English-speaking guide (additional charge applies for other language speaking guide)
    - All entrance fees, donations and parking fees as per itinerary

This ‘Explore Manado’ package does NOT include:

- - - Visa fee / arrangements if applicable
    - Any domestic or international flights
    - Any alcoholic beverages
    - Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone call, room service, mini bar, etc
    - Personal health and travel insurance
    - Gratuities/ tipping for driver and/or guide and porterage
    - Any High Season and Peak /festive season surcharge (see below)
    - Any additional excursion/optional tours/activites that are not mentioned in the itinerary

Good to know

- - - Minimum of 2 persons per booking
    - Additional charges apply during high season and peak season period
    - Price and booking confirmation are subject to room availability
    - Private basis only (no seat in coach available)