Butterfly watching Tour in Sonder Town of Minahasa Highland

Sonder is a small subdistrict town in Minahasa regency of Indonesia. It is a beautiful place for visitors who are interested in watching insect (especially butterfly, dragonfly, and damselfly),  seeing beautiful mountaineous landscape, green farmland, river, and waterfall. 

Various species of butterflies and moth could be seen in Sonder's forest and farmland. They include: Lime Swallowtail (Papilio demoleus), Manado Yellow Tiger (Parantica menadensis), Blanchard's Wood Nymph (Ideopsis vitrea oenopia), Blanchard's Tree Nymph (Idea blanchardii), Meyer's Jay (Graphium meyeri), The Clipper (Parthenos sylvia), Sulawesi Leafwing (Doleschallia polibete celebensis), Celebes Sacred Tabby (Pseudergolis avesta), Helen's Birdwing (Troides helena), Celebes-banded Swallowtail (Papilio gigon), and etc.

Sulawesi Leafwing

This butterfly was seen at the road side of Tincep village

This butterfly was seen in higher elevation forest of Subdistrict Sonder

Blanchard's Wood Nymph

Blanchard's Tree Nymph Butterfly

Milon's Blue Bottle Butterfly

Meyer's Jay Butterfly

The Clipper Butterfly

Sacred Tabby

Helen's Birdwing

Celebes-banded Swallowtail

Sulawesi Sailor

In addition to butterflies, visitors could also see dragonfly, damselfly, and other insects near Manado city.

Some dragon fly and butterfly near Manado city

How to get there?

To enjoy butterfly watching or insect watching in Sonder town and its surrounding forest and farmland, visitors need to fly from their country to Manado city which is the capital of North Sulawesi province in Indonesia. The trip to Sonder town can be done by car with a duration of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on traffic condition. 

Flights to Manado city

Car route from Manado city to Subdistrict town of Sonder

Where to stay?

Visitors can stay in homestays in Subdistrict town of Sonder or in hotels in Tomohon town. 

Visitors can stay in homestay in Sonder or in hotels in Tomohon town

Booking

If you are interested in taking a insect watching/ butterflywatching tour in Sonder of Minahasa and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing the following button:

Also read:

• Birding Tour in Sonder town of North Sulawesi
• Birding Trip in North Sulawesi
• Birdwatching in Sonder of Minahasa regency

Bird watching in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland

Tangkoko Nature Reserve is a great destination for visitors who are interested in birding in North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia. It is the habitat of a lot of species of birds.

Green-backed Kingfisher

Some of them are listed below:

• Green-backed Kingfisher
• Lilac Kingfisher
• Ruddy Kingfisher
• Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher
• Great-billed Kingfisher
• Knobbed Hornbill
• Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill
• Purple-winged Roller
• Sulawesi Scops Owl
• Ochre-bellied Boobook
• Speckled Boobook
• Ashy Woodpecker
• Pygmy Woodpecker
• Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
• White-bellied Imperial Pigeon
• Green Imperial Pigeon
• Silver-tip Imperial Pigeon
• Pied Imperial Pigeon
• Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon
• Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
• Pygmy Hanging Parrot
• Golden-mantled Racquet-tail
• Yellow-breasted Racquet-tail
• Spot-tailed Goshawk
• Rusty-backed Thrush

The coastal area of Tangkoko Nature Reserve is the habitat of sea birds such as White-bellied Sea Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Pacific Reef Heron, Lesser Frigatebird, Greater Frigatebird, Blue Rock Thrush, Common Sandpiper, Terek Sandpiper, White-rumped Cuckooshrike and etc. 

Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill, Purple-winged Roller, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Knobbed Hornbill

On the average, most visitors spend 3 days/ 2 nights of bird in Tangkoko. After that they will continue their trip by birding in the highland of Minahasa. There are several interesting birding sites in that region. 

Birding Sites in Minahasa Highland

• Lake Tondano - This is the site for watching Black Kite, Osprey, White-breasted Waterhen, Javan Pond Heron, Oriental Reed Warbler, Dusky Moorhen, White-browed Crake, Purple Heron, Barn Swallow, White-nest Swiftlet, Collared Kingfisher and etc. Most of the birdwatching activity can be conducted from the edge of the Lake Tondano using binoculars and spotting scope.  
• Lake Linow - This is an alternative site for watching water birds in Minahasa highland. Birds that could be watched are similar to the ones in Lake Tondano. There are some other interesting species that could be watched in this volcanic lake  such as Sunda Teal, Australasian Swamphen, Wandering Whistling Duck, White-breasted Woodswallow, and etc.
• Mount Mahawu - Most birdwatchers go there to look for Scaly-breasted Kingfisher. However, there are a lot of other species that could be seen too such as Sulawesi Myzomela, Warbling White-eye, Sultan's Cuckoo-dove, Superb Fruit-dove, Red Jungle Fowl, and etc.
• Sonder's Forest - The higher elevation forest of Sonder is the habitat of a lot of species of birds including Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Black Sunbird, Crimson Sunbird, Black-crowned White-eye, Mountain Tailorbird, Black-faced Munia, Chestnut Munia, Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo, Bay Coucal, Black-billed Koel, Sulawesi Drongo, Hair-crested (white-eyed) Drongo, Black-naped Oriole, White-breasted Woodswallow, Black Kite, Brahminy Kite, Yellow-sided Flowerpecker, Gray-sided Flowerpecker, . In addition to birds, the forest and farmland of Sonder is the natural habitat of a lot of species of butterflies. Some of them include Blanchard's Ghost Butterfly, Blanchard's Wood Nymph Butterfly, Common Birdwing, Gigon Swallowtail.
• Tincep's Rice Field and Kengkang Waterfall - This is another birding site in Subdistrict Sonder that is worth visiting. Birds that could be watched in this place include: Zebra Dove, Pied Stilt, White-browed Crake, Buff-banded Rail, Purple Heron, Little Egret, Eastern Cattle Egret, Javan Pond Heron, Cinnamon Bittern, White-rumped Triller, Sulawesi Myna, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Sulawesi Serpent Eagle and etc.

Sulawesi Scops Owl

In general, visitors spend between 3 to 4 days in Minahasa Highland to watch birds and butterflies as well as enjoy the beautiful scenery of the landscape. 

Accommodation

Most visitors stay in the guesthouse or homestay in Tangkoko and in a hotel in Tomohon town. As a tourist guide, we could organize the accommodation, transportation and the birding tours for our tour participants.

Booking

If you are interested in taking a birding tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland, and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp through the following button. 

Also read:

• Things to do in Manado city
• Wildlife in the Rainforest of Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• Bird watching tour in Sonder of Minahasa Regency
• Farm Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• birdingsulawesi.com

Farm Tour in Minahasa Highland

Sightseeing and Farm Tour in Indonesia - Minahasa highland is a region in the province of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Most of the people who live in Minahasa work as farmers. 

Lake Tondano and fruits in Minahasa highland

They grow vegetables, fruits, rice, and industrial agricultural crops such as clove, nilam, and nutmeg. Therefore, it is interesting to visit the agricultural land, meet farmers and enjoy sightseeing across the beautiful landscape of Minahasa.

Rice field in Minahasa highland

Visitors who travel to Minahasa can take this agricultural tour to see farmland, the activities of farmers, the types of crops that they grow and the kinds of tools which the farmers use. 

In wetland area such as Tincep, Talikuran, Kayawu, and Langowan, visitors could see rice field. Rice is the main staple food of people in Asia. Farmers also run fish farming, usually by building ponds along the riverside. Tilapia (locally called mujair) and carp (locally called ikan mas) are two kinds of fish which farmers like to raise in their farm. 

Lake Linow and some of the flower plants which villagers grow in Subdistrict Sonder

In addition to food crops, visitors who take this farm tour can see other agricultural commodities which farmers in Minahasa like to grow such as flowers, patchouli, vanilla, and clove. Colourful flower plants could be seen in Tincep village of Subdistrict Sonder and the farmland of Tomohon town. 

In the past a lot of farmers grow because the price of its clove flower buds was very high. Now farmers have diversified the crops that they grow. 

Another important commodity that the farmers in Minahasa grow in their farmland is vanilla. It is used as ingredients in various kinds of processed food products and in cosmetics.

Corn, vanilla, clove, papaya and rice in Minahasa highland

The duration of this farm tour can be as short as 1 day to as long as 3 days. Visitors who take this trip can see the natural beauty of the landscape, visit farmlands, meet and interact with local villagers and enjoy local cuisines.

Accomodation

During the tour, participants could stay in a hotel in Manado city or in a hotel in Tomohon town of Minahasa highland. As a tourist guide, we could arrange the accommodation for all tour participants.

To take this tour, visitors need to fly from their country to Manado city which is the capital of North Sulawesi province of Indonesia. Regular daily flights between Manado city and main big cities in Indonesia are served by Garuda, Batik Air, Lion Air, Super Airjet, TransNusa and etc. 

Flight routes between Manado and cities in Indonesia as well as between Manado and Singapore

There are also international direct flights between Manado and Singapore that is served by Scoot Air; as well as between Manado and Guangzhou China that is served by TransNusa.

If you are interested in taking this farm tour in Minahasa highland, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180. 

Also read:

• Minahasa Highland Tour
• Nature Tour from Manado City
• Sightseeing Tour from Manado city
• Things to do in Manado city

Freediving Photos from Raja Ampat

Snorkeling

I am guiding a Dutch lady this week on a snorkeling and freediving trip in Raja Ampat. We stayed at a guesthouse in Waigeo island run by a Papuan family. The coral reef at the front of the guesthouse is very beautiful and is the natural habitat of a lot of species of fish and other marine creatures.
This morning I gave an introductory snorkeling lesson to her. It was the first time for her to learn snorkeling. She practiced snorkeling in shallow water at depths of 1 to 1.5 meters. Wearing a life-jacket, mask, snorkel and water shoes, she started swimming to deeper area to see such fish as moorish idol, goatfish, striped surgeonfish, convict surgeonfish, damselfish, longfin spadefish, and butterflyfish. She was very happy to see the marine life.

Marine Life in Raja Ampat

After giving her a short snorkeling lesson that morning, I continued my exploration of the coral reef alone. With an action camera in my hand, I enjoyed freediving for approximately 45 minutes. I descended to a depth of 5 to 7 meters to find anemonefish, sea-star, Christmas tree worm, and grouper. I was able to take some good pictures of the underwater world of this beautiful marine environment.
In the afternoon, we had a tour around the King's karst, a tidal cave and a lagoon in Gam island. We really liked this adventure especially this July. The wind was strong and the sea surface was rough. During July, very few tourists come to Raja Ampat because weather is bad and the sea is mostly covered by whitish big waves. During the adventure tour by boat, we did some birding. From that afternoon trip, we saw Lesser Frigatebird, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Spice Imperial Pigeon, Beach Kingfisher, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Brahminy Kite, Eclectus Parrot, Hooded Butcherbird, Pacific Swallow, Crested Tern, Brown Cuckoo Dove, and White-breasted Woodswallow.

Blue Sea Star and white Sea Worm

To watch birds, we used 10×42 mm binoculars. For taking pictures of them, we used Canon SX430. For underwater photographs, I used Brica B-Pro 5 Alpha Edition.
As a tourist guide, I offer a combined snorkeling, sightseeing, island hopping and birding tour to Raja Ampat for tourists who are interested in seeing the birdlife, marinelife and beautiful landscape of this tropical islands. If you want me to be your guide, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180. I will be happy to organize your trip and guide you around this marine paradise.
Also read:

• Things to do in Manado city
• Nature Tour from Manado city
• Farm Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Birding in Minahasa Highland
• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland

Birding Tour in Sonder Town of North Sulawesi

Sonder is a small subdistrict town in Minahasa regency, North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia. It has got natural sites that are good for visitors to enjoy hiking, sightseeing and birdwatching. Here are some of them:

Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

Tounelet Slope - This is a very small forest in Sonder town that is located behind Siloam Hospital of Sonder town. It is good for birdwatching especially early in the mornings and in late afternoons. Birds that could be watched include: Black-crowned White-eye, Sultan's Cuckoo-dove (also called Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove), Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Zebra Dove, Sulawesi Crow, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, White-nest Swiftlet, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker, Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo, Sahul Sunbird, Brown-throated Sunbird, Black-naped Oriole, Chestnut Munia, Scaly-breasted Munia, Pale Blue Monarch, Yellow-billed Malkoha, and etc.

Some birds in Sonder of Minahasa highland of Indonesia

Paddy Field of Talikuran village - This birdwatching site is located at the outskirts of Sonder. It is the site for watching Barred Rail, Buff-banded Rail, White-browed Crake, White-breasted Woodswallow, Barn Swallow, Collared Kingfisher, Javan Pond Heron, Little Egret, Cattle Egret, Isabelline Bush-hen and etc. 

Another rice field area that is worth visiting in Tincep Valley, various kinds of birds could be seen in this area. They include Purple Heron, Javan Pond Heron, Hair-crested (white-eyed) Drongo, Pied Stilt, White-breasted Woodswallow, Spotted Dove, Zebra Dove, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, and etc.  Sometimes, Black Kite, and Sulawesi Serpent Eagle could be seen flying over the sky of Sonder.

The ravine of Kengkang waterfall is located in the north of Sonder. We could watch some interesting birds such as Sulawesi-crested Myna, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Green Imperial Pigeon, Sulawesi Serpent Eagle, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, White-rumped Triller, and etc. 

Sulawesi Scops Owl

Sonder - Kiawa Road is not a busy transportation lane. It has got a lot of trees and agricultural crops that grow on both sides of it. Birds that could be watched in this area include: Finch-billed Myna (formerly called Gross-beaked Starling), Zebra Dove, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Lesser Fish Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Collared Kingfisher, Gray Wagtail, Gray-sided Flowerpecker, and etc.

More birds could be watched if we go hiking in the forest of Mount Lengkoan of Sonder. There are Warbling White-eye (Japanese White-eye), Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Black Sunbird, Black-faced Munia, Black-crowned White-eye, Citrine Canary Flycatcher, Mountain Tailorbird, Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker, Sulawesi Myzomela, Yellow-sided Flowerpecker, Sulawesi Bush Warbler, Sulawesi Pitta, and etc.

Nocturnal birds that can be watched in Minahasa highland include Speckled Boobook, Sulawesi Masked Owl and Sulawesi Scops Owl. 

Duration of the tour - In general, visitors spend at least 3 days/ 2 nights in Sonder to enjoy birdwatching. However, if the tour is combined with trips to Mount Mahawu, Lake Linow and Lake Tondano, the duration of the tour in this part of Minahasa highland can be as long as 4 to 5 days. 

The total duration of birding tour across North Sulawesi Province is 7 to 9 days, this will include trip to Maleo Sanctuary in Kotamobagu, Minahasa highland (Tomohon and Sonder), and Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

How to get there?

Visitors who are interested in taking a birding tour in Sonder town as well as other birwatching sites in North Sulawesi need to fly from their country to Singapore and then to Manado city. Or they can fly to Jakarta or Denpasar Bali and then continue to Manado city. We could meet you at the airport of Manado city and organize your trip to Sonder and other birdwatching sites in North Sulawesi province of Indonesia.

Booking contact

Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180.  

Also read:

• Birding in Sonder of Minahasa regency
• Hiking and Birding Tour in Sonder, Minahasa regency, Indonesia
• Birding and Butterfly watching in Sonder's Forest and Farmland

Birding Trip in North Sulawesi (Tangkoko & Minahasa Highland)

A trip Report by Charles Roring during 1 week birding trip in Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Temboan Hill, Lake Tondano, Lake Linow, Mount Mahawu, Sonder's Mount Lengkoan Forest, Tincep's Rice Rield, Kengkang Waterfall and the outskirts of Manado city

From 31 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, I organized tour and guided Fred Hareau, a Canadian birdwatcher, on a birding trip across the Province of North Sulawesi of Indonesia. 

We went to Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Naun River, Lake Tondano, Lake Linow, Rurukan village, Mount Mahawu of Tomohon, Sonder's forest and rice field as well as Tincep's waterfall. 

Birding in North Sulawesi

Tangkoko Forest and Temboan Hill (31 December 2025 - 1 January 2026)

In Tangkoko's forest, we saw Rusty-backed Trush, Green-backed Kingfisher, Lilac Kingfisher, Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher, Great-billed Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Malkoha, Sulawesi Babbler, Ruddy Kingfisher, Knobbed Hornbill, Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill, Black-billed Koel, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Maroon-chinned, Finch-billed Myna, White-necked Myna, Chinese Sparrowhawk, White-bellied Imperial Pigeon, Maroon-chinned Fruit-dove, Isabelline Bush-hen, Black-billed Koel, and etc. For mammals, we saw Sulawesi Bear Cuscus and Celebes-crested Macaque.

Celebes-crested Macaque

Naun River (2 January 2026)

We also did a trip by motorized boat to Naun River to find Great-billed Kingfisher. Along the sea cliffs, beach and river area, we also saw a lot of shore birds including Blue Rock Thrush, Pied Imperial Pigeon, White-rumped Cuckooshrike, Little Egret, Sulawesi Crow, Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Pacific Reef Heron, Common Sand Piper, Terek Sandpiper, Nankeen Night Heron, Medium Egret, Great-tailed Tattler, Terek Sandpiper, Pied Stilt and etc. 

We did night birding walks during our stay in Tangkoko. We saw Ochre-bellied Boobok, Speckled Boobook, Sulawesi Scops Owl, Northern Boobok, and Sulawesi Nightjar.

Lake Tondano (3 January 2026)

After spending 3 nights in Tangkoko, on January 3, 2026, we continued our trip to Lake Tondano where we watched Brahminy Kite, Black Kite, Dusky Moorhen, Oriental Reed Warbler, White-browed Crake, Barred Rail, Scaly-breasted Munia, Chestnut Munia, Javan Pond Heron and Cattle Egret. 

During our night birding activity in Tomohon, we saw Sulawesi-masked Owl. 

Tomohon and Mount Mahawu (4 to 5 January 2026)

On 4 January 2026, we took a morning birding trip in Rurukan village to see Sulawesi Pitta. After that we continued our trip to Mount Mahawu to watch Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Citrine Canary Flycatcher, Yellow-sided Flowerpecker, Warbling White-eye, and Black-crowned White-eye.

We also visited the volcanic Lake Linow near Lahendong village. There, we watched Sunda Teal, (perhaps) Whiskered Tern (in winter plumage), Sunda Teal, Collared Kingfisher, Purple Heron, Australasian Swamphen, Barn Swallow, Javan Pond Heron, and etc.

Sonder (6 January 2026)

During our birding trip in Sonder's forest from 5 to 6 January 2026 from Mount Lengkoan to Tincep's rice field and Kengkang Waterfall, we experienced a lot of rain. However, we were able to watch Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Crimson Sunbird, Black-crowned White-eye, Warbling White-eye, Mountain Tailorbird, Hair-crested Drongo, Sulawesi Myzomela, Black-faced Munia, Barred Rail, Collared Kingfisher, Pied Stilt, Javan Pond Heron, Zebra Dove, Purple Heron, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Sulawesi Serpent Eagle,  Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Black-naped Oriole, Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon. 

Manado city (7 January 2026)

To do our last morning birding walk, we left Tomohon town at 05:48 for the outskirts of Manado city. We saw Yellow-billed Malkoha, Javan Myna, Brown-throated Sunbird, Scaly-breasted Munia, Chestnut Munia, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Yellow-billed Malkoha, Sulawesi Crow, and three birds of Java Sparrow (Padda oryzivora). We were quite surprised to see these birds because they were not a native bird of Sulawesi. Perhaps they escaped from cages that belonged to someone in Manado city. There was a raptor soaring high in the sky. We could not see it well because the weather was cloudy. Perhaps, it was Spotted Harrier. 

If you are interested in taking a birding tour in North Sulawesi and want me to organize your trip and guide you, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing this contact link.

Also read:

• Things to do in Manado city
• Minahasa Highland Tour
• Birdwatching in Sonder
• Birdwatching in Jakarta

Birdwatching in Sonder of Minahasa Regency, Indonesia

If you are visiting the Province of North Sulawesi  in Indonesia, you have probably heard of the famous Tangkoko Nature Reserve. But just an hour away, high in the cool mountains, lies a quieter, hidden gem for nature lovers: Subdistrict town of Sonder.

Sulawesi Myzomela in Sonder's forest edge

Sonder is a small district in the Minahasa Regency, located near the city of Tomohon. Unlike the hot coastal jungles, Sonder offers a cool, breezy climate and a unique landscape where wild forests meet clove plantations and rice fields. This mix makes it a fantastic (and comfortable) place to see birds that you can’t find anywhere else on Earth.

Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

Why Go to Sonder?

Sonder is perfect for "relaxed birding." You don't always need to trek deep into a dark jungle to see amazing wildlife. Because the town is surrounded by gardens and forest edges, many birds come right out into the open.

Cooler Weather: It is much more comfortable to walk here than in the humid lowlands.

Easy Access: You can often spot rare birds just by walking along paved village roads or easy dirt trails near the Tounelet Slope Forest.

Unique Mix: You get to see both forest birds and open-field birds in one trip.

Warbling White-eye

The Stars of the Show

Sonder is famous for a few specific birds that travel from all over the world to see. Here is what you should look for:

1. The Sulawesi Scops Owl

This is the big prize in Sonder. While owls are usually hard to find, local guides in Sonder know exactly where these small owls sleep during the day. You can often see them roosting quietly in bamboo clumps or shady trees near the village edge.

2. The Sulawesi Myzomela

High elevation forest of Sulawesi is the habitat for Sulawesi Myzomela, and Sonder is one of the best places to find this specific highland type. This colourful bird often seen in the forest edge or flower garden. They like to hop from one flower to another feeding on nectar.

3. The Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

These tiny, bright green parrots are fun to watch. They hang upside down (like bats!) while they eat fruit and flower nectar. You will often hear their high-pitched squeaks before you see them zooming past the coconut trees.

4. The Yellow-billed Malkoha

This is a large, strange-looking bird with a long tail and a bright yellow beak. They love climbing through the vines in the forest canopy. They look almost prehistoric and are a favorite for photographers.

Some birds in Sonder: Yellow-billed Malkoha, Black-billed Koel, Black-naped Oriole, Sulawesi Myzomela

A Typical Birding Day in Sonder

The Morning Walk:

Your tour usually starts early, around 5:30 or 6:00 AM, when the birds are most active. You might start at the **Tincep's Kengkang Waterfall** area or the **Tounelet Forest**. As the sun rises, the mist clears, and you can see Green Imperial Pigeon and Sulawesi-crested Myna sit on the brancheals of trees that grow on the cliffs around the waterfall.

Black-naped Oriole

The "Edge" Advantage:

One of the best things about Sonder is "edge birding." This means you walk on the road where the forest meets the farm. Birds love this area because they can hide in the trees but come out to the farm to eat flowers, fruits, lychen, insects, reptiles. It makes spotting them much easier for beginners.

Some birds and fruits in Sonder

### Practical Tips for Your Trip

* **How to get there:** Sonder is about a 1.5-hour drive from Manado or just 20 minutes from Tomohon.

* **What to wear:** Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even though it is cool, bring a hat and light rain jacket, as mountain weather can change quickly.

* **Bring Binoculars:** Most birds are small and active. If you don't have your own, ask if your guide can provide a pair.

* **Hire a Local Guide:** This is crucial. The birds are good at hiding. Local guides know the specific trees where the Owls and Kingfishers like to sit.

### Summary

Sonder offers a peaceful, authentic side of North Sulawesi. It is not just about ticking birds off a list; it is about enjoying the cool mountain air, the smell of clove spices, and the thrill of spotting a rare owl right in a village backyard.

Booking

Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatapp by pressing: this contact link.

Also read:

• Birding in Mount Mahawu
• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• Discover Bunaken: Indonesia's Underwater Snorkeling Paradise

🐠 Discover Bunaken: Indonesia's Underwater Snorkeling Paradise

Nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle off the coast of North Sulawesi, the Bunaken Islands are home to one of the world's most spectacular marine ecosystems. For snorkelers and marine enthusiasts, a tour here is a journey into an intensely vibrant, biologically rich underwater world—an absolute must-do for any trip to Indonesia.

Marine Tour in Bunaken National Park

The World of Bunaken National Park

The Bunaken National Park, established in 1991, spans nearly 900 square kilometers, with 97% of it being pristine marine habitat. It comprises five main islands: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage, and Nain. This conservation area is renowned for its:

•  Exceptional Biodiversity: Hosting over 390 species of coral and more than 2,000 species of marine creatures, it represents 70% of all fish species found in the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean.
• The Famous Walls: Bunaken is characterized by dramatic, nearly vertical coral walls that drop from the shallow reef plateaus to depths of 25-50 meters. Snorkeling along the edge of these drop-offs offers a breathtaking view into the deep blue.
• Crystal-Clear Water: Visibility is often superb, reaching up to 30-35 meters, allowing for unparalleled viewing of the marine life from the surface.

🤿 Snorkeling: A Window to the Coral Reef

While Bunaken is globally famous for its wall diving, the shallow, fringing reefs and the tops of the drop-offs make it equally perfect for snorkeling.

Top Snorkeling Spots

Marine tours typically visit two or three stunning locations in a single day trip from Manado or the islands themselves. Some of the most celebrated spots include:

 * Lekuan Reef: These sites on Bunaken Island are famous for guaranteed sightings of Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtles gently grazing or resting on coral ledges. The shallow tops of the walls here are teeming with life.

 * Johnson's Wall and Alung Banua: Beautiful reef areas inside of Bunaken bay known for schools of butterflyfish, sweetlips, and parrotfish in the fringing reef.

 * Bunaken Timur (East Bunaken): A long stretch of reef along the eastern coast, ideal for drift snorkeling along the drop-off when the currents are mild.

 * Siladen Island: This smaller island boasts a vibrant reef drop-off and shallow seagrass meadows, offering a contrasting environment rich with smaller reef fish and often home to dugongs.

Coral reef in Bunaken National Park

What to See

Bunaken's marine tours provide a high chance of encountering iconic creatures:

 * Turtles: You are practically guaranteed to see several species of sea turtles swimming gracefully or resting.

 * Reef Fish: Schools of dazzling reef fish, including colorful Clownfish (Nemo!) nestled in their anemones, angelfish, lionfish, triggerfish, and parrotfish.

 * Corals: Explore dense, healthy coral gardens with massive table corals, vibrant soft corals, and giant clams.

 * Pelagic Species: Keep an eye out into the blue for larger species like reef sharks, jackfish, barracudas, and, occasionally, even dolphins or pilot whales from the boat.

🛥️ Planning Your Marine Tour

Most visitors arrange day tours from the city of Manado (about 30-45 minutes by speedboat) or directly from resorts on Bunaken or Siladen.

| Feature | Details |

|---|---|

| Typical Tour Duration | 7-8 hours (full day) |

| Inclusions | Boat transfer, snorkeling gear rental, guide, lunch (often on Siladen Island), and mineral water. |

| Exclusions | Bunaken National Park Entrance Fee (mandatory contribution to conservation) and sometimes hotel transfers. |

| Best Time to Visit | The dry season, generally from April to October, offers the best visibility and calmest waters, though snorkeling is excellent year-round with water temperatures consistently at 28°C - 29°C. |

Tip for Travelers: Consider supporting local guides and homestay owner for a more authentic experience, and always be mindful of marine conservation by avoiding touching corals or marine life.

The Bunaken Islands truly offer a quintessential Southeast Asian marine adventure. It's not just a snorkeling trip; it's an immersion into one of the most biodiverse, living aquariums on the planet.

Extending your trip to mainland by taking wildlife and sightseeing tour

The Minahasa peninsula is an interesting destination for visitors who are interested in wildlife watching. The rainforest of Tangkoko Nature Reserve in Bitung municipality is the habitat of various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. 

To see the wildlife of Tangkoko Nature Reserve, visitors need to walk into its forest. The best time to do that is early in the morning from 06:00 to 09:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00. 

Gursky's Spectral Tarsier

Gursky's Spectral Tarsier, Celebes-crestes Macaque, Sulawesi Bear Cuscus are some of the wild animals which visitors could see in Tangkoko. 

Knobbed Hornbill

For birdwatchers, Tangkoko Nature Reserve is the habitat of a lot of species of tropical birds including Knobbed Hornbill, Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill, Sulawesi Lilac Kingfisher, and Green-backed Kingfisher, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Pygmy Hanging Parrot, Minahasa Racquet-tail, Sulawesi-crested Myna and etc. 

Booking

If you are interested in taking snorkeling tour to Bunaken National Park and wildlife tour in mainland Minahasa Peninsula (Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland), and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing this contact link.

Also read:

• Birding Trip in North Sulawesi (Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland)
• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland

Birding in Mount Mahawu: A Simple Guide to North Sulawesi’s Hidden Avian Paradise

Mount Mahawu, a stratovolcano located near Tomohon in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is emerging as a top destination for eco-travelers and birding enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush montane forest, scenic crater views, and cool highland air, Mahawu offers one of the most accessible and rewarding birdwatching experiences in the region. Whether you're a seasoned birder chasing endemics or a nature lover seeking peaceful hikes, birding in Mount Mahawu deserves a place on your itinerary.

Warbling White-eye

Why Mount Mahawu is a Birding Hotspot? 

The highlands around Mount Mahawu are part of the Biodiversity-rich Wallacea Region, famous for its high rate of endemism. The mix of primary forest, secondary growth, and open scrub provides habitat diversity that attracts both forest specialists and highland species rarely seen at lower elevations.

Key Reasons Birders Love Mount Mahawu

• Easy access: A paved road leads near the summit, and trails are well-maintained. 
• High bird diversity: Many endemic species of Sulawesi can be spotted in a single morning. 
• Cool, comfortable climate: The highland temperature makes birding enjoyable year-round. 
• Minimal crowds: Compared to more famous birding sites, Mahawu is still relatively quiet. 

Highlight Birds of Mount Mahawu

Here are some of the species that birders frequently target in the Mahawu area:

Sulawesi Endemics

• Sulawesi Hornbill (Aceros cassidix) 
• Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker 
• Sulawesi Myzomela 
• Sulawesi Blue-flycatcher 
• Sulawesi Drongo
• Yellow-billed Malkoha 

Highland & Specialty Species

• Scaly-breasted Kingfisher (rare but possible with patience) 
• Purple-winged Roller 
• White-bellied Imperial Pigeon 
• Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker 

In the early morning, the forest resonates with the calls of Bay Coucal, Yellow-sided Flowerpecker, and Sulawesi Crow. Photographing birds here is also rewarding thanks to good lighting and semi-open trails.

Best Time for Birding in Mount Mahawu

Birding is possible year-round, but the best months tend to be June to October, during the drier season. Early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:30–5:30 PM) are prime bird activity periods.

Scaly-breasted Kingfisher

Recommended Birding Trails

1. The Crater Rim Trail

A short circular trail around the crater allows for easy birdwatching. You can pause at scenic viewpoints while listening for woodpeckers and flycatchers.

2. The Forest Trail Below the Parking Area

This lightly forested path is excellent for spotting endemics, especially mixed flocks of white-eyes, and small insectivores. This is typically where many bird guides start their morning outings.

3. The Mahawu Agricultural Slopes

The farmlands and open areas near the base attract doves, munias, and occasional raptors circling overhead.

Tips for a Successful Birding Trip

• Hire a local bird guide: Guides based in Tomohon or Sonder can help you find elusive species and understand vocalizations. 
• Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens: Forest birds often perch high or move quickly. 
• Wear earth-tone clothing: Helps avoid disturbing wildlife. 
• Go early: Mornings are quieter and allow you to catch the dawn chorus. 
• Be mindful of weather: Mist can roll in quickly on the highlands—be prepared. 

How to get to Manado city? 

Visitors who want to take this tour, need to fly to Manado city which is the capital of North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia. 

There are daily flights between Manado city and big cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar, Balikpapan, Makassar, and Sorong city. They are served by Garuda, Citilink, Lion Air, Batik Air, SuperAir Jet, TransNusa. 

Direct flights between Manado city and Singapore is served by Scoot Air; and between Manado and Guangzhou is served by TransNusa and China Southern Airlines. 

Flight routes from big cities in Indonesia and Singapore to Manado city

How to Get to Mount Mahawu

Mount Mahawu is about 45 minutes from Manado and just a short drive from Tomohon. Transportation options include rented scooters, private drivers, or guided tours. Parking is available near the summit entrance, making the site accessible for short visits or half-day trips.

Where to Stay

Many birders choose to stay in Tomohon, which offers a range of homestays (in Sonder), eco-lodges, and mid-range hotels. Some accommodations even partner with local bird guides for custom birding tours.

Sustainable Birding Practices

The Mahawu ecosystem is delicate. Please:

• Stay on marked trails 
• Avoid playback (birdcall audio) unless necessary 
• Do not feed wildlife 
• Keep noise to a minimum 

Responsible birding helps protect habitat and ensures future generations can enjoy this unique environment.

Conclusion

Birding in Mount Mahawu is a rich, rewarding experience that combines accessible trails, cool mountain air, and an impressive lineup of Sulawesi’s endemic bird species. Whether you’re building your life list or simply exploring North Sulawesi’s natural beauty, Mahawu offers one of the most approachable yet exciting birdwatching spots in Indonesia.

Booking

If you are interested in taking a birding tour to Mount Mahawu and other birding sites in Minahasa highland, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp through this contact link.

Also read:

• Hiking and Birding Tour in Sonder of Minahasa regency, Indonesia
• Birding in Minahasa Highland
• Birding in Sonder of Minahasa regency