About Kepulauan Sangihe

Kepulauan Sangihe – Volcano Island and Clove Plantations on the Edge of the Philippine Sea

Kepulauan Sangihe (Sangihe Islands) Regency lies in the northernmost part of North Sulawesi province, in the middle of the Philippine Sea between the Philippines and Sulawesi. The regional capital is Tahuna. The Sangihe Islands are known for the active Mount Awu volcano (1,320 m), clove and nutmeg plantations, and Sangir culture.

Attractions and Activities

Mount Awu (Gunung Awu, 1,320 m) is one of Indonesia's most dangerous active volcanoes – the crater view is breathtaking (depending on safety status). Tahuna town and coastal fishing villages have traditional lifestyles. Clove and nutmeg plantations can be visited – aromatic spices are the foundation of the region's economy. Marine coral reefs are suitable for snorkelling – rich marine life.

Culture and Cuisine

Sangir culture blends Malay and Philippine traditions. Sangir dance (Maengket) and traditional fishing ceremonies are living traditions. Cuisine is seafood-based: ikan roa (smoked flying fish – the region's best-known product), tinutuan (mixed vegetable soup), fish and sago are local flavours.

Public Safety

The Sangihe Islands are safe but remote. Mount Awu is active – respect the safety zone. Sea routes may be delayed in stormy weather. Medical care is basic; Manado (approx. 1.5 hours by flight) has the nearest more advanced hospital.

Practical Information

Tahuna Naha Airport receives flights from Manado (approx. 1.5 hours). By boat from Manado, approximately 12–14 hours. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: simple guesthouses in Tahuna.

About North Sulawesi

North Sulawesi is Indonesia's diving capital, where the world-famous Bunaken Marine Park, Tangkoko National Park's tarsiers, and Minahasa culture create a unique combination. Manado, the provincial capital, is the gateway to the Celebes Sea, and the local spicy cuisine – including famous rica-rica and woku – offers world-class gastronomic experiences.

Where is North Sulawesi?

The province is located at the northern tip of Sulawesi island, on the shores of the Celebes Sea. Manado is the capital, with an international airport and direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, and Singapore. The Bunaken Islands are 20 minutes from the harbor.

What to See?

1. Bunaken Marine Park – World-Class Diving

Bunaken National Park is one of the world's best diving sites. Steep coral walls (wall diving), sea turtles, dolphins, and sponges await. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters. Bunaken, Manado Tua, and Siladen are the main islands.

2. Tangkoko National Park – Tarsiers and Macaques

Tangkoko-Batuangus National Park is home to the world's smallest primate, the Sulawesi tarsier. Evening treks offer close encounters. The park also protects endemic black macaques, cuscuses, and rare birds.

3. Manado – Provincial Capital

Manado is a vibrant city where Minahasa culture, Christian traditions, and modern life converge. Waruga graves, Ban Hin Kiong temple, and local markets are worth visiting.

4. Minahasa Culture and Gastronomy

The Minahasa people are famous for their spicy cuisine. Rica-rica (spicy chicken/fish), woku (spiced fish dish), and tinoransak (spiced pork) are specialties. Locals also boldly consume exotic meats – for the gastronomically adventurous.

5. Lokon Volcano and Tomohon

Tomohon is the "flower city" at the foot of Lokon volcano. The cooler climate, flower market, and traditional Minahasa villages make a pleasant excursion from Manado.

When to Visit?

April–October is the dry season, ideal for diving. Evening treks for tarsier spotting are suitable anytime. Underwater visibility is best between May and August.

How Long to Stay?

5–7 days recommended:

2–3 days: Bunaken diving
1 day: Tangkoko NP and tarsier trek
1 day: Manado city and gastronomy
1 day: Tomohon and Lokon volcano

Summary

North Sulawesi is a dream for divers and nature lovers. Bunaken's coral walls, Tangkoko's tarsiers, and Minahasa gastronomy together provide a world-class experience.

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