Top Things to Do in the Manado | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Manado

Places To Visit In Manado

Minahasa Highlands

The Minahasa Highlands are best known for being home to various volcanic peaks that rise up to more than 1700 meters and the friendly natives. The region is rich in culture and history and also has an exquisite local cuisine. The highlands start at around 300 meters above sea level and go up to almost 600-700 meters that offer spectacular views of the volcanoes and mountains full of greenery. The region is starkly different from the beaches of North Sulawesi because of mostly pleasant weather throughout the day and cool nights. The natives of the Minahasa Highlands live in dainty wood-frame houses that make the residential areas look similar to European settlements. Apart from the volcanic peaks, the highlands are also known for the various prehistoric above-ground burial sites and coffee and coconut plantations. Tourists can also enjoy the hot springs in the region and the highland lake Tondano along with terraced hillsides with orchid gardens. Visitors are advised to bring raincoats, waterproof and windproof clothing and trekking shoes as the weather tends to change quite unpredictably. Read More

The Paal beach is a hidden paradise in North Sulawesi. Located in Marinsow Village, this beach is filled with hundreds of people during weekends and holidays. The beautiful stretch of pink-golden sand surrounded by green hills and clear blue water will make you want to visit this beach more than once. This beach is sometimes called Balinya North Sulawesi because, the colour of the water, sand and the green hills in Paal beach are found to be way more spectacular than many beaches in Bali. The waves in this beach are normally calm, hence there are many water sports you can choose that trigger your adrenaline. Read More

Famously known as one of the hidden paradises of Bunaken, the Siladen Island is home to a spectacular marine park with shoals of colourful fishes and fascinating coral reefs. Located about eight miles off the city centre in the northeast side of Bunaken, Siladen is one of the five islands in Manado, North Sulawesi. Be it spending a calm afternoon while sunbathing, or experiencing an adrenaline rush while snorkelling or diving, this island has something to suit everyone! Glass boats, beautiful cottages, diving centres, and delicious food are some of the major highlights of the island. The shimmering white, sandy beach stretched along the coastline is perfect for taking strolls. All in all, this island is a must-visit for those who are looking for a soothing weekend getaway. Read More

The Tunan Waterfall is one of the many waterfalls located in Sulawesi, with a height of 86 meters surrounded by lush green forests and a sheer rock face. The picturesque waterfalls flow into the narrow canyon present at the foot of the cascades, with misty water giving it a beautiful appearance. Tourists can even enjoy swimming under the falls, but since the waters have a rocky bed and are only 1.5 meters deep, it is best advised to not go straight diving or jumping into the waters. The relatively unknown nature of the falls makes it an excellent place to visit for those that want to escape from the city and enjoy some solitude with their loved ones. Read More

Waruga Sawangan is a cemetery known for being an old megalithic heritage site, located just 40 kilometers outside the main city of Manado. The word Waruga refers to stone sarcophagi which was used by the people of Minahasa back in ancient times as a burial method, wherein the body of the deceased was put within the Waruga in a squatting position, resembling the position of a fetus in a mother’s womb. The box and the top cover, which has the shape of a roof so that the Waruga resembles a house, are both made from whole hard stone. Waruga Sawangan is also known to be home to 144 dotu or clans which were previously scattered all over the villages in the Minahasa district but are now gathered together in the same compound. Visitors are also advised to carry their own snacks or meals as the location is quite remote and does not have many food stalls available around, provided that these items are consumed outside the park. The venue has also been visited by many notable personalities such as Queen Jualiana, Prince Bernard and Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. Read More