North Sulawesi Adventure

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Activity Highlights

Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights Package

What to Expect

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of North Sulawesi, where nature, adventure, and culture come together in a unique and immersive experience.

Your adventure begins with an exciting canyoning excursion in Tunan, where you'll slide down natural waterfalls, swim in crystal-clear pools, and rappel through a lush, volcanic landscape—perfect for beginners seeking a fun and active start. From there, travel to the famous Tangkoko Nature Reserve, one of Indonesia’s top spots for wildlife encounters. Here, you’ll take an evening walk through the forest to spot the elusive Spectral Tarsier—one of the world’s smallest primates—as well as a wide variety of endemic bird species.

Wake up early for a chance to see the rare and charismatic Celebes Crested Macaque, a striking black primate known for its bright amber eyes and social behavior. On the way to Tomohon, explore ancient stone tombs called Warugas, remnants of the old Minahasan tribes, and learn a bit about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

In Tomohon, hike up to the crater rim of Mahawu Volcano for breathtaking views of its green caldera and the surrounding highlands. Visit Woloan village to see how traditional Minahasa wooden houses are built, and stroll through rice fields with panoramic views of Mount Lokon. You’ll also explore the vibrant Tomohon market—famous for its fresh produce and, for the adventurous, its exotic bush meat section.

Dive deeper into the local culture with a visit to RBN Wale Mazani, a community center dedicated to preserving Minahasan traditions. Here, you can learn about the traditional Kolintang instrument, local dances, and languages.

Your journey continues with an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the Nimanga River, navigating through forested canyons with expert guides. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful and otherworldly Lake Linow, a volcanic lake that changes colors and emits a distinct sulfur scent. Enjoy traditional fried bananas served with a local twist—spicy chili sauce—while taking in the serene lake views.

Round off your adventure with a peaceful moment at Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi, where you can go kayaking or simply enjoy the cool mountain breeze surrounded by rolling hills.

This itinerary offers the perfect balance of light adventure, wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and natural beauty—ideal for curious travelers looking for a deeper connection with Sulawesi’s unique landscapes and heritage.

Activity Description

Day 1 Airport - Manado

Arrive this afternoon at Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, where you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide. After meeting your guide, enjoy a scenic drive to Manado and take some time to relax and unwind after your journey.

Day 2 Manado - Tunan Canyoning Adventure – Tangkoko (B/L/D)

Begin your day with a lighthearted and exciting canyoning adventure, the perfect way to explore North Sulawesi’s natural beauty while enjoying the fun and thrills of this accessible outdoor sport. Available year-round, the canyons offer a variety of enjoyable features, including swimming, natural water slides, jumps, and rappelling down cliffs up to 80 meters. Surrounded by lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes, this descent is not only adventurous but also visually stunning—ideal for beginners and nature lovers alike.

After the activity, continue your journey with a scenic 1-hour drive to Tangkoko.

Upon arrival, check in and take a moment to refresh before departing at 16:00 for an evening walk in Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Located on the northeastern tip of Sulawesi, this protected area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and variety of habitats, ranging from coastline and mangroves to lowland rainforest and mountainous terrain.

Tangkoko is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 recorded bird species, many of which are endemic to Sulawesi. Notable sightings may include the Great-Bellied Kingfisher, White-Bellied Sea Eagle, Sulawesi Hornbill, Dwarf Kingfisher, and six endemic parrot species, as well as the elusive Minahasa Masked Owl and Sulawesi Goshawk.

The park’s most famous resident, however, is the Spectral Tarsier—one of the smallest primates in the world and endemic to this region. These tiny nocturnal creatures live in family groups in tree hollows and emerge at dusk to begin their nightly hunt for insects. This twilight hour is the perfect time to observe them in their natural habitat. Tangkoko is considered one of the best places in the world to see tarsiers in the wild, and even served as a filming location for a BBC wildlife documentary on these fascinating animals.

Dinner and overnight in Tangkoko.

Day 3 Tangkoko - Tomohon (B/L)

Begin the day with a guided rainforest walk at 06:00, a perfect time to encounter one of Tangkoko’s most iconic and fascinating residents—the Celebes Crested Macaque, also known locally as Yaki or Wolai. This striking primate is entirely jet black, with a hairless face and, occasionally, a touch of white around the shoulders. Its deep reddish-brown eyes, elongated muzzle, and prominent head crest give it a unique appearance—earning it the nickname "miniature King Kong.”

The Celebes Crested Macaque is diurnal and primarily terrestrial, spending over 60% of its time on the ground, foraging and interacting in social groups. With luck, you may encounter an entire troop as they cross your path through the dense rainforest, offering a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.

After the walk, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.

Your journey then continues with a scenic drive to Tomohon, located in the highlands of North Sulawesi. Along the way, make a cultural stop at Airmadidi, home to the ancient Waruga tombs. These stone sarcophagi were used by the old Minahasan tribes and are an important part of local heritage, scattered throughout the region’s open fields.

You’ll also make a brief visit to a Japanese World War II cave, a remnant of the island’s complex wartime history. Overnight at Tomohon.

Day 4 Tomohon – Tondano - Tomohon (B/L)

After breakfast, set out for a day of cultural and natural discovery in the scenic highlands of Tomohon. Your first stop is the 1,222-meter-high Mahawu Volcano. Along the way, enjoy views of the majestic Mount Mahawun, one of three active volcanoes surrounding the area. A short walk takes you to an observation platform at the crater rim, offering panoramic views of the caldera and the lush surroundings.

Continue to Woloan Village, where you’ll observe the traditional craftsmanship of Minahasa wooden house construction—a fascinating cultural tradition passed down through generations.

Next, visit the Tomohon Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and colorful displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce. While lively and authentic, the market is also known for its "extreme" section, where bush meat such as bats and rats is sold. A visit to this section is optional and not recommended for all visitors.

Afterwards, head by car to Kayawu Village, where a peaceful countryside walk through rice fields awaits. Along the trail, enjoy scenic views of Mount Lokon, another prominent volcano in the region.

Stop for lunch and a cultural visit at RBN Wale Mazani—meaning "House of Sounds” in the local Tombulu language. This center is dedicated to preserving Minahasan arts and traditions, especially the music of the traditional instrument Kolintang. The site features a Kolintang museum, instrument workshop, art studio, and spaces for performances and rituals. It’s also a hub for learning local language, dance, and music.

Conclude the day with a visit to Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi. Nestled among the rolling hills of the Minahasa Highlands, the lake offers cool breezes and stunning views. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a kayaking experience across its vast, silver-blue waters. Overnight at Tomohon.

Day 5 Tomohon – Nimanga Rafting – Lake Linow – Tomohon (B/L)

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up at 08:00 from your hotel and driven for about one hour to Timbukar Village, the launch point for Nimanga River rafting. Upon arrival, expert guides will provide a brief 10 minute safety and paddling demonstration before you embark on a two hour rafting adventure, winding through lush, forested canyons and enjoying ever changing river views. Once back on shore, you’ll return to the village.

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties.

Next, visit the otherworldly Lake Linow, where the air carries a faint sulfur scent and the water shimmers in vivid turquoise—testimony to its volcanic origins. Here you’ll savor Indonesia’s classic snack of fried banana with spicy chili sauce, rather than sweet toppings, and unwind with a cup of tea or coffee on the tranquil lakeshore. Overnight at Tomohon.

Day 6 Tomohon – Manado Airport (B)

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to Manado Airport for your onward flight to your next destination.

Details

- Activity Duration
- 6 Days
- City
- Manado
- Type
- Adventure
- Host for Partner
- Jans Tours
- Cancellation
- Up to 30 Days prior to arrival date More
- Bookings Accepted
- 30 Day(s) Prior To Activity
- Max Participants
- 2
- Max Participants Per Time Slot
- 2
- Guide Can Speak
- English & Indonesian

Requirements

Availability of the package: 1 June 2025 - 31 March 2026
Price minimum 2 guests
- Advanced booking is highly required,
- Good physical condition is required,
- Dress comfortably and wear walking sandals/sports shoes on day 1,
- Wear sports shoes during trekking,
- Comfortable clothing, a light sweater or light raincoat (during trekking) on day 2,
- Bring your sunscreen, hat, swimming suit, and sunglasses, and mosquito repellent
The language guide can speak English and Indonesian. Other languages as French, Spanish, German, and Dutch-speaking guides, are available upon request with an additional surcharge.

Inclusions

• 1 night accommodation in twin/double sharing at Hotel Luwansa (or similar)
• 1 night accommodation in twin/double sharing at Tangkoko Sanctuary (or similar)
• 3 nights' accommodation in twin/double sharing at Villa Emitta (or similar)
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner; Snacks)
• Tours and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle
• 01 Porter to bring a coffee break to Lokon
• 1x afternoon visit to Tangkoko on day 2
• 1x Morning Visit Tangkoko on Day 3
• English-speaking guide
• Rafting, canyoning, and Kayaking as per the program
• Daily Mineral water @600ml (02 bottles/day/person)

Exclusions

• Indonesia visa arrangements
• International and domestic flights
• Meals other than mentioned above
• Camera/video fees on Tangkoko
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips etc)
• Travel insurance
• other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above

Cancellation

• 30 days before departure : Full refund
• 25 days before departure : 25 % cancellation fee
• 15 days before departure : 50 % cancellation fee
• 10 days before departure : 70 % cancellation fee
• 05 days before : No refund

Direction

Hosted By

Jans Tours

Jans Tours Schweiz AG is part of the Jans Tours Group, with offices in France, Indonesia, the Philip...

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