Welcome to Bunaken National Park, North Sulawesi
If you're looking for a marine tour in Indonesia that combines breathtaking coral reefs, vibrant marine biodiversity, and rich island culture, look no further than Bunaken National Park. Located off the coast of Manado in North Sulawesi, Bunaken is a must-visit destination for divers, snorkelers, eco-travelers, and bird lovers alike.
Why Visit Bunaken National Park?
- Part of the World-Famous Coral Triangle
- Bunaken lies within the Coral Triangle, often referred to as the Amazon of the seas. It offers:
- Over 390 coral species
- More than 1,500 fish species
- Pristine vertical coral walls
- Exceptional visibility — often up to 30 meters
Bunaken is a model for sustainable marine conservation, and its reef system is considered among the healthiest in the world. It is often proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top Activities in Bunaken Marine Tour1. Scuba Diving
A marine tour in Bunaken isn’t complete without diving into its deep walls and thriving coral reefs.
Highlights:
Reef sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays
Macro diving: nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses
Drift diving along vertical walls
2. Snorkeling
Don’t dive? No problem. Bunaken offers some of the best snorkeling in Indonesia.
Top Snorkeling Spots:
Siladen Island (calm and shallow reefs)
Alung Banua
Pangalisang Beach
Crystal-clear water and shallow reef tops mean you can see clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and even turtles just meters from shore.
Birdwatching in Bunaken: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
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Collared Kingfisher |
While marine life gets the spotlight, birdwatching in Bunaken National Park is an underrated highlight.
Best Birdwatching Locations:- Manado Tua Island: Forested slopes and volcanic terrain
- Mantehage Island: Mangrove forests and open fields
- Nain Island: Quiet beaches and small forests
- Greater Frigatebird
- Lesser Frigatebird
- Brahminy Kite
- White-bellied sea eagle
- Collared kingfisher
- Pacific reef heron
- Pied Imperial Pigeon
- Sunbirds and fruit doves and etc.
- Bring binoculars and take an eco-guided birdwatching tour with local experts.
At ecotoursindonesia.com, we promote responsible tourism and support community-based conservation in Bunaken. Your visit helps protect this ecosystem and supports local livelihoods.
- Eco-friendly Travel Tips:
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Don’t touch or step on coral
- Avoid single-use plastics
- Support certified local villagers
- Choose homestays or resorts practicing sustainable tourism
Nearest City: Manado, North Sulawesi
Airport: Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC)
Transfer: 30–60 minutes by boat from Manado to Bunaken Island
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry season from March to October offers the calmest seas and best visibility for diving and snorkeling.
Whether you're a budget backpacker or looking for an eco-luxury experience, Bunaken has options: Eco Resorts and Budget Homestays
Local Guesthouses: Great way to experience authentic Minahasan culture Why Choose a Marine Tour in Bunaken with EcoToursIndonesia.com?
At EcoToursIndonesia.com, we specialize in immersive eco-tours that connect you with nature and community. Our Bunaken marine tour packages are designed to provide:
Custom itineraries for birdwatching and island exploration Local, sustainable partnerships
Multilingual local guides
Explore Our Bunaken Tour Packages
Sample Itinerary: 3-Day Marine Eco Tour in Bunaken
- Day 1: Arrival in Manado → Boat to Bunaken → Snorkeling & Island Walk
- Day 2: Full-day Diving or Birdwatching Tour → Local Village Visit
- Day 3: Sunrise Birdwatching → Snorkeling → Return to Manado
- Final Thoughts: A Truly Sustainable Marine Experience
A marine tour in Bunaken National Park is more than just a tropical getaway — it’s a journey into one of Earth’s most vibrant underwater ecosystems, with the added bonus of rich birdlife, cultural heritage, and eco-conscious tourism.
Whether you're a diver, a snorkeler, or a nature lover, Bunaken offers something rare: a balance between adventure and conservation.
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