Bolaang Mongondow Utara – Coffee Plantations and Volcanoes in North Sulawesi
Bolaang Mongondow Utara (North Bolaang Mongondow) stretches across the central highlands of North Sulawesi province. The regional capital, Boroko, sits at the foot of the Gunung Ambang volcano. The terrain is diverse: fertile valleys produce coffee, cloves and cocoa, while dense tropical montane forest covers the higher slopes.
Attractions and Activities
The Gunung Ambang Nature Reserve is the region's crown jewel: this protected forest of over 8,000 hectares is home to endemic species including the Sulawesi maleo bird (Macrocephalon maleo) and the bear cuscus. Hot springs bubble up on the volcano's flanks, used by locals as natural bathing spots. The rice terraces of the Dumoga Valley provide sweeping panoramas, especially during the green pre-harvest season. In the surrounding Mongondow villages you can see traditional wooden architecture and learn the coffee production process—from cherry picking to roasting—at local farms.
Culture and Cuisine
Mongondow culture is a living tradition: the tulude fishing festival and mogama communal work practice are pillars of social life. Signature dishes include grilled seafood with rica-rica sauce, dabu-dabu (fresh tomato-chilli salsa), and pisang goreng (fried banana) with a clove-honey glaze. Locally grown arabica coffee is excellent quality and can be bought freshly roasted from nearby plantations.
Public Safety
Bolaang Mongondow Utara is a peaceful, safe highland region. You can move around freely in the villages and the town of Boroko at night; crime levels are low. Roads are in good condition during the dry season, but mountain sections can become slippery during the rainy months – drive carefully then. Solo female travellers should not expect any issues; local communities are especially respectful. The nearest hospital is in Kotamobagu, roughly 1–2 hours by car; basic pharmacy services are available in Boroko.
Practical Information
From Manado, the drive south to the regional centre takes approximately 3–4 hours. Highland roads are in good condition but can become slippery during the rainy season (November–March). Accommodation is limited to simple guesthouses, though local hospitality more than compensates. Bring your own supplies (water, snacks) for mountain hikes.