North Sulawesi is a province located on the northern tip of the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. There are several aspects that make North Sulawesi special and an ideal place to spend a holiday.

The Rich Biodiversity

North Sulawesi is known for its incredible biodiversity, both on land and in its surrounding waters. The Bunaken National Marine Park, located near the province’s capital of Manado, is renowned for its diverse marine life and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Around Gangga Island Resort & Spa there are so many dive sites, you could choose a new spot every day of your holiday. Whether you want to see large schools of fish, tiny critters hiding in the reefs, or larger pelagics like sharks and rays, there is a wonderful array of marine life to see.

On land, it’s possible to book a trip to the Tangkoko Nature Reserve where there are some amazingly unique creatures to be seen. From tiny tarsiers, to the province’s iconic babirusa (deer pig), the biodiversity is right before your eyes.

The Cultural Diversity

The province is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. This cultural diversity is reflected in various aspects of daily life, including cuisine, traditional dances, and rituals.

The people of North Sulawesi are an ethnic mix of local Minahasa tribes mixed with Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, Chinese and Arab. This is due to the colonization of the area from the 16th century until Indonesia’s independence in the 20th century. With around 65% Protestant/Catholic and 30% Muslim, you might think there would be a divide between people, but acceptance of differing religions is widespread.

Visitors to North Sulawesi often mention the warm and friendly nature of the local people. The hospitality of the residents contributes to the overall positive experience for those exploring the region.

The Volcanic Landscape

North Sulawesi is characterized by its volcanic landscape, with several active volcanoes, including Mount Lokon and Mount Soputan. The volcanic soil contributes to the fertility of the land, supporting agriculture in the region.

If you are a diver, Manado Tua is one of the main attractions in the Bunaken Marine Park. This extinct stratovolcano rises out of the water off the coast of Manado city and is an icon of the region. Diving around the volcanic island is truly breathtaking with long slopes, walls, and healthy reefs teeming with brightly coloured marine life.

Overall, North Sulawesi’s combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and unique attractions makes it a special destination for travelers looking to experience the richness of both land and sea. Divers love how many dive sites there are to choose from and how uncrowded it is compared to some other dive hotspots in Indonesia.

Have you been to North Sulawesi? If so, tell us what it is that attracted you there and what the most enjoyable aspects of your trip were. We love to read all about your experiences, so leave us a comment in the box below this article.