NSU, MANADO – Nestled on the northern tip of Sulawesi Island, Manado City continues to solidify its position as a top tourist destination in Indonesia. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, especially the legendary Bunaken Marine Park, Manado also captivates visitors with the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people, a defining characteristic of the region.
As the capital of North Sulawesi Province, Manado offers a harmonious blend of scenic highlands and captivating marine environments. However, its main attraction is undoubtedly the underwater paradise of Bunaken National Park. This world-class marine park is home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, making it a magnet for divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Giant, sheer coral walls (drop-offs), vibrant coral reefs, and thousands of species of fish, turtles, dolphins, and even dugongs create an unforgettable underwater spectacle. This beauty affirms Bunaken as one of the best diving spots in the world, an integral part of the global 'Coral Triangle.'
Journey to Underwater Paradise: Accessing Bunaken
Accessing Bunaken from Manado is straightforward. Tourists typically depart from Kalimas Manado Port or Manado Bay in the Megamas area, using either chartered boats or public boats.
- Public Boats: These usually depart around 2:00 PM WITA from Kalimas Manado Port, with fares ranging from approximately Rp 25,000 to Rp 50,000 per person one way (depending on negotiation and passenger numbers). The journey takes about 45-60 minutes.
- Charter Boats: Ideal for groups or those seeking scheduling flexibility, charter boat costs vary between Rp 500,000 and Rp 1,000,000 per day, depending on the boat size and bargaining skills. The trip is quicker, taking around 30-45 minutes.
- Tour Operators: Many tour operators in Manado offer comprehensive packages to Bunaken, including transportation, snorkeling/diving gear, lunch, and a guide. Costs typically range from Rp 350,000 to Rp 1,500,000 per person, depending on the activity (snorkeling or diving) and included facilities.
In addition to transportation costs, visitors are required to pay a Bunaken National Park entrance fee of Rp 150,000 per person for international tourists and Rp 5,000 per person for domestic tourists. This fee is valid for one year from the purchase date.
Exploring Manado's Unique Landscapes and Culinary Delights
Beyond its underwater wonders, Manado also offers captivating land-based scenery. The highland areas around Tomohon, often dubbed the "City of Flowers," provide cooler air, vibrant flower markets, and opportunities to interact directly with the Minahasan people's daily lives.
However, what truly leaves a lasting impression on many visitors is the hospitality of the Manadonese people. Known for their open, cheerful, and incredibly welcoming nature, interactions with locals are a genuinely warm and delightful experience. They proudly share their culture, cuisine, and unique stories about life in the city, making every visit feel like coming home. The spirit of "Torang Samua Basudara" (We Are All Siblings) is genuinely felt throughout the city.
Manado's cuisine, rich in spices and bold flavors, is also an inseparable part of the travel experience. Besides Tinutuan (Manadonese porridge) and Cakalang Fufu (smoked skipjack tuna), don't miss the sensation of fresh Manadonese grilled fish. Various types of fresh seafood, such as grouper, snapper, or barracuda, are perfectly grilled with special local spices and served with dabu-dabu (a fresh Manadonese raw chili salsa) or spicy rica bakar (grilled chili sauce). This is a must-try dish for seafood lovers seeking an authentic North Sulawesi flavor.
With ever-improving accessibility, both through domestic and growing international flights, Manado is ready to welcome more tourists. The perfect combination of stunning natural beauty, the unparalleled underwater diversity of Bunaken, the genuine hospitality of its people, and its rich culinary heritage makes Manado a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, and an authentic cultural experience in Indonesia.