Manado – North Sulawesi’s Capital and Bunaken Diving Paradise
Manado is the capital of North Sulawesi province, on the Celebes Sea coast. The city is the gateway to the world-famous Bunaken National Park and one of Indonesia’s most developed eastern cities – with a strong Christian (Minahasa) cultural identity.
Attractions and Activities
Bunaken National Park is one of the world’s best diving and snorkelling sites: steep coral walls, 3,000+ fish species, sea turtles. Bunaken Island is approximately 30 minutes from Manado by speedboat. Manado Tua volcanic island near Bunaken offers panoramic hiking. Ban Hin Kiong Chinese Buddhist temple reflects Manado’s multiculturalism. The Boulevard waterfront promenade is the centre of evening life.
Culture and Cuisine
Minahasa (Christian) culture is defining: traditional waruga tombs, Woloan bamboo houses in the Minahasa highlands. Cuisine is famously spicy: tinutuan (Manado vegetable soup), cakalang fufu (smoked tuna), ayam rica-rica (chilli chicken), paniki (bat meat – local speciality).
Public Safety
Manado is a safe city. Standard urban precautions are recommended. Medical care: advanced hospitals in Manado.
Practical Information
Manado Sam Ratulangi Airport has international flights (Singapore, Manila). The airport is approximately 30 minutes from the city centre. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: hotels in all categories.