North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of habitats from coastal mangroves and lowland forests to highland rainforests and mountain peaks. This diversity makes it an ideal destination for birding tours. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from tour and birding packages in this region:
Key Birding Locations in North Sulawesi
- Tangkoko Nature Reserve
Highlights: The reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the endemic Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher, Sulawesi Hornbill, and the Spectral Tarsier.
Activities: Guided walks through dense forests, night treks to spot nocturnal birds and other wildlife. - Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park
Highlights: Home to the Maleo bird, a unique megapode that uses geothermal heat to incubate its eggs. Other species include the Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle and Knobbed Hornbill.
Activities: Trekking through varied terrains from lowland forests to montane regions, bird photography tours. - Minahasa Highlands
Highlights: Rich in endemic species like the Scaly-breasted Kingfisher and Purple-bearded Bee-eater.
Activities: Exploring highland forests, visiting traditional villages, and enjoying panoramic views. - Gunung Ambang Nature Reserve
Highlights: Known for its montane forest species, including the Matinan Blue Flycatcher and Cinnabar Boobook.
Activities: High-altitude birding expeditions, camping trips.
Birding Trip Package: North Sulawesi Adventure
Overview
Discover the avian marvels of North Sulawesi on this 10-day birding expedition. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, diverse national parks, and scenic highlands while spotting a plethora of endemic and migratory birds in their natural habitats.
Package Highlights
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Accommodation: Comfortable eco-lodges and hotels
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Group Size: Max 12 participants
Guide: Experienced local birding guide
Day 1: Arrival in Manado – Tangkoko
Morning: Arrive at Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado. Meet your expert birding guide.
Afternoon: Transfer to Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Check-in at Tangkoko Lodge, a simple but cozy accommodation nestled on the edge of the reserve.
Evening: Welcome meeting, dinner, and trip briefing at the lodge.
Accommodation: Tangkoko Lodge
Day 2-3: Tangkoko Nature Reserve Birding
Morning: Early breakfast followed by full days of birding in Tangkoko. Your guide will help you spot the park’s rare and endemic species, such as the Spectral Tarsier, Maleo, and the Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher.
Afternoon: Continue exploring various trails and habitats within the reserve.
Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and rest.
Accommodation: Tangkoko Lodge
Day 4: Tangkoko – Kotamobagu / Gunung Ambang
Morning: After breakfast, drive to Kotamobagu.
Afternoon: Birding around Gunung Ambang, an excellent site for observing the elusive Cinnabar Boobook (Cinnabar Hawk-owl).
Evening: Check-in and overnight at Hotel Sutan Raja Kotamobagu. Enjoy a traditional Indonesian dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Sutan Raja Kotamobagu
Day 5: Gunung Ambang – Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park
Morning: Early birding session around Gunung Ambang for morning species activity.
Afternoon: Drive through the western part of Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park, with birding along the Molibagu road.
Evening: Check-in and overnight at Tante Min Homestay in Doloduo or at Ranger Homestay in Toraut (for larger groups). Dinner and rest.
Accommodation: Tante Min Homestay or Ranger Homestay
Day 6-7: Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park Birding
Morning: Two full days dedicated to exploring the diverse birdlife in Bogani Nani Wartabone. Spot the Purple-bearded Bee-eater, Sulawesi Pitta, and other unique species.
Afternoon: Continue birding in different habitats within the park to maximize sightings.
Evening: Return to the homestay for dinner and discussion about the day’s sightings.
Accommodation: Tante Min Homestay or Ranger Homestay
Day 8: Kotamobagu – Tomohon
Morning: After breakfast, drive to Tomohon, a highland town renowned for its cool climate and rich biodiversity.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant en route.
Afternoon: Arrive in Tomohon, check-in at Villa Emitta Tomohon.
Evening: Dinner at the villa and relaxation.
Accommodation: Villa Emitta Tomohon
Day 9: Tomohon Birding and Transfer to Manado
Morning: Birding around the Minahasa Highlands, including a hike up a volcano for a panoramic view and sightings of highland bird species.
Afternoon: Visit Lake Tondano and Lake Linow for more birding opportunities. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening: Transfer to Manado. Check-in at your hotel and enjoy a free evening.
Accommodation: Hotel in Manado
Day 10: Departure
Morning: Breakfast and a brief final birding session around the hotel if time permits.
Late Morning: Transfer to Sam Ratulangi International Airport for your departure flight.
Afternoon: Farewell and safe travels to your next destination.
Included in the package:
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation as specified
- Meals as specified
- Professional birding guide
- All transportation within the itinerary
- Entrance fees to parks and reserves
- Bottled water and snacks
Excluded in the package:
- International airfare to/from Manado
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., liquor, souvenirs, tips)
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary
- Binoculars and camera
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Lightweight clothing and rain gear
- Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Personal medications and first aid kit