Welcome to Indonesia’s hidden paradise: Sulawesi. This large island is located East from Bali and a flight from Denpensar takes around 1 hour. This is your 8-day itinerary to North Sulawesi.
Itinerary overview:
- Gangga Island
- Manado
- Bunaken National Park
- Gorontalo
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GANGGA ISLAND – 3 days
The journey kicks off on Gangga island, this super remote island is ideal for snorkelling, diving and relaxing. To get here, you’ll need to fly into Manado, then take a 90-minute car transfer to the port and finish the journey with a 15-minute boat ride to reach Gangga island. It’s not easy to get here, but you’ll see it’s worth it!
Spend your days at the beach, out on the water or visit the 2 local villages on the island.
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Gangga Island has only one resort: Gangga Island Resort & Spa. This unique stay offers beautiful villa’s, a lovely spa, delicious cuisine and the warmest staff.
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MANADO & BUNAKEN – 3 days
Off to Manado, we’re gonna stay 2 full days here!
Go chase waterfalls on day 1:
- Tekaan Telu Waterfall
- Tunan waterfall
- Kai Waterfall
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On day 2 we’re heading to Bunaken National Park. Get ready to spot dolphins, swim with dozens of large sea turtles & colourful fishes. DM me on Instagram for a tour guide from Manado.
Alternately you can stay overnight on Bunaken or Siladen island and explore the national park from there.
Video footage: Swim with huge sea turtles
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GORONTALO – 2 days
Travel from Manado to Gorontalo by car or flight. The drive is around 10 hours and this transport method is very common. DM me via Instagram to get the contact details of 2 drivers. Alternatively you can take a flight but note that you might need to transfer in Makassar.
Wake up early to swim with Whale Sharks, the earlier the better! Head out by boat for a couple of minutes before you’ll meet these mesmering creatures. The animals aren’t locked up or chased in any way but they do get fed. I don’t really support this entirely but it is a very special experience as you get the observe the Whale Sharks up close.
Book your tour with Agus (Gorontalo_Tourism on Instagram), he is the best guide around!
Video footage: Swim with whale sharks
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Follow me on Instagram for more bucket list destinations and to find out where I’m now.
Also read: 8 best waterfalls in Bali