Manado - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Manado

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Manado, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Manado and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Manado, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Manado for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Manado

Manado is a city located in the northern part of the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. It is the capital of the province of North Sulawesi and is known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Manado is famous for its diving spots, such as the Bunaken Marine Park, which is home to diverse marine life. The cuisine is also a highlight, known for spicy and flavorful dishes using fresh seafood. The city is accessible by air and sea, with the Sam Ratulangi International Airport serving as the gateway for most travelers. The local language is Manado Malay, but Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken. The climate is tropical with warm and humid weather throughout the year.

What to visit in Manado

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Manado, Indonesia: 1. Bunaken National Marine Park – This is a popular spot for diving enthusiasts as it is home to rich marine biodiversity and colorful coral reefs.
2. Mount Lokon – It is an active volcano located in Tomohon, near Manado. Trekking up Mount Lokon is a popular activity for adventure seekers.
3. Tondano Lake – It is the largest lake in North Sulawesi and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the lake.
4. Manado Tua Island – This island is located on the edge of the Bunaken National Marine Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and crystal-clear waters.
5. Christ Blessing Statue – This impressive statue stands on top of a hill overlooking Manado Bay and holds great significance for the Christian population in Manado.
6. Kali Waterfall – It is a beautiful waterfall located in the jungle near Tomohon. Visitors can take a dip in the refreshing pool below the waterfall.
7. Waruga Burial Site – It is a historical site where the Minahasan ancestors used to bury their dead. The site is now an open-air museum showcasing ancient burial practices.
8. Tangkoko National Park – It is a wildlife reserve located in the foothills of Mount Dua Saudara and home to tarsiers, black macaques, and hornbills.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Manado, Indonesia that visitors can explore and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Manado.

When to go on holiday to Manado

The best time to go on holiday to Manado, Indonesia is typically between May and September. During these months, the weather is generally dry with lower humidity and average temperatures ranging between 26°C and 30°C. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling and hiking. However, it's important to note that Manado is a tropical destination and there is a chance of rain at any time of the year. The rainy season (October to April) also sees an increase in humidity and temperatures can rise up to 33°C. So, if you prefer slightly cooler and drier weather, planning a trip between May and September would be the best option.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Manado

There are different ways to get to Manado, Indonesia, depending on your location. If you are traveling from outside Indonesia, the most common way is to fly to Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, and then take another flight to Manado. There are several airlines that operate flights to Manado from Jakarta, including the national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia, and also Citilink, Wings Air, and Lion Air. The flight time from Jakarta to Manado is around 3-4 hours.
Another option is to fly to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, and then take a connecting flight to Manado. Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, and AirAsia operate flights from Singapore, while Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia operate flights from Kuala Lumpur.
If you are already in Indonesia, you can take a domestic flight from Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, or other main cities to Manado. The flight duration varies depending on the location of departure, but the flight from Jakarta takes around 3 hours.
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from some cities in Sulawesi, such as Gorontalo and Ternate, to Manado, but this is not a recommended option due to its longer duration, which usually takes more than a day.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Manado, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Manado

Sure, here are some typical foods of Manado and a short description for each of them: 1. Tinutuan - A porridge made from rice, vegetables (such as pumpkin, cassava leaves, and spinach), and sometimes fish or shrimp. It is usually served with fried shallots and sambal.
2. Ayam Woku - A spicy chicken dish cooked with woku paste, a mixture of herbs and spices like lemongrass, turmeric, galangal, and chili. The dish is usually served with steamed rice.
3. Ikan Bakar - Grilled fish with sambal sauce, which can be sweet or spicy, and served with steamed rice or vegetables.
4. Babi Rica-rica - Pork cooked in a spicy sauce made from ginger, turmeric, and chilies. It is usually served with steamed rice or cassava leaves.
5. Cakalang Fufu - A Minahasan dish made from smoked skipjack tuna served with vegetables and steamed rice.
6. Brenebon - A thick red bean soup with meat, usually pork, and often served with rice cakes.
7. Es Puter - A coconut ice cream served with sweet toppings like syrup, chocolate, or fruit.
These dishes provide a sampling of Manado's rich culinary heritage.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Manado an expensive destination for tourists?

Manado, compared to other destinations in Indonesia, can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists due to its location in the far northeast of the country. However, the cost of living and travel expenses are generally lower than in many other popular tourist spots in the world. Prices for accommodation, transportation, and food are generally affordable, although prices for tourist activities such as diving and snorkeling can be more expensive. It ultimately depends on your budget and travel preferences, but Manado can certainly be visited without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Manado

The best areas to find accommodation in Manado are in the city center and along the coast. Some popular neighborhoods for tourists include Boulevard area, Malalayang and Citraland. These areas offer a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Additionally, you can also find resorts and hotels in offbeat locations like Bunaken Island which is a popular tourist attraction.
You can check hotel prices at Manado here:
Booking.com

Is Manado a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Manado, Indonesia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to take precautions to stay safe while traveling. It is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and be cautious when using public transportation. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research potential scams or unsafe areas in any destination before you travel.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Manado.

What type of travelers will enjoy Manado the most?

Manado is a great destination for travelers who enjoy nature, diving, and beach activities. The city is also known for its cultural diversity and friendly locals. Here are some types of travelers who would enjoy Manado the most: - Diving enthusiasts: Manado is home to some of the best diving spots in Indonesia, such as Bunaken National Park and Lembeh Strait. The marine life is diverse, including colorful corals, fish, and other sea creatures. - Nature lovers: Manado offers various nature attractions, including volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and national parks. - Families: Manado has a relaxed and safe atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for families. There are many family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, island hopping, and exploring cultural sites. - Couples: Manado offers a romantic and secluded environment with gorgeous sunsets and the perfect setting for honeymooners or couples looking for a peaceful getaway. Overall, Manado is suitable for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

How to get around Manado

To move around Manado, you can use various forms of transportation including: - Public buses: There are many public buses that go around Manado city. However, they may not be very comfortable or reliable.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Manado and relatively affordable. You can either use traditional taxi or online transportation services such as Gojek.
- Motorbike taxis: This is a popular option in Manado, especially for short distances. You can easily find them on the side of the road and negotiate the price before hopping on.
- Car rental: You can rent a car at the airport or through various rental agencies in Manado. It is advisable to rent a car with a driver, as traffic conditions and road signs can be confusing for foreign visitors.
- Walking: Many tourist attractions in Manado are located within walking distance of each other, so walking is a good option if you have a limited budget or want to explore the city at a slower pace.

What to see around Manado

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Manado: 1. Bunaken Island: This island is located just off the coast of Manado and is known for its world-class diving and snorkeling spots.
2. Tomohon: This highland town is situated about 25 kilometers south of Manado and is known for its flower markets and traditional cuisine.
3. Lake Tondano: This beautiful lake is located about 35 kilometers south of Manado and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Lembeh Island: Located about 45 kilometers southeast of Manado, Lembeh Island is known for its world-class diving spots and marine life.
5. Tangkoko Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is located about 50 kilometers east of Manado and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tarsiers, macaques, and hornbills.
6. Minahasa Highlands: This highland area is located about 25 kilometers south of Manado and is known for its cool climate, stunning views, and exotic fruit farms.
7. Mahawu Volcano: This active volcano offers hiking opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding areas.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

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