Bunaken Marine Park
SULAWESI, INDONESIA
Bunaken National Marine Park was one of the first marine parks in Indonesia spanning five islands and covering over 800 sq km. This status has protected the rich diversity of sea life in the area. Cruise along the top of coral drop offs watching turtles gliding off the edge or along fringing coral reefs with an abundance of darting fish. Clown fish of every description stay nestled in their anemone homes while moray eels poke their heads out of coral hideaways. Night snorkeling on the reef is a must. A whole new range of fish and crabs come out at night making for some of the most fascinating snorkeling you’ll ever experience. It may put you off night swimming though, since everything that can sting you (lionfish, stonefish, sting rays) seem to come out at night.
Bunaken National Marine Park was one of the first marine parks in Indonesia spanning five islands and covering over 800 sq km. This status has protected the rich diversity of sea life in the area. Cruise along the top of coral drop offs watching turtles gliding off the edge or along fringing coral reefs with an abundance of darting fish. Clown fish of every description stay nestled in their anemone homes while moray eels poke their heads out of coral hideaways. Night snorkeling on the reef is a must. A whole new range of fish and crabs come out at night making for some of the most fascinating snorkeling you’ll ever experience. It may put you off night swimming though, since everything that can sting you (lionfish, stonefish, sting rays) seem to come out at night.
Location
Off the Northwest coast of Sulawesi Island, Indonesia.
Getting There
Direct flights from Singapore and Jakarta to Manado make this an easy access destination. Accessible by boat from Manado or even better stay right in the park on Bunaken or Siladen islands.
Land Adventures
From Manado a 1.5-hour drive brings you to Tangkoko National Park, where an overnight stay offers the chance to encounter two extraordinary animals unique to Sulawesi. Begin with a night hike through the jungle to spot the world’s smallest monkey. The 10cm Tarsier will stare back at you with their huge eyes before jumping from branch to branch faster than your eyes can register. Get up early the next day for a second jungle hike to discover troops of Crested Black Macaques foraging across the jungle floor in search of breakfast. Along the way, keep an eye out for Hornbills, Owls, Kingfishers, Tarantulas, and even the elusive Cuscus for a truly immersive wildlife experience.
Destination Drink
Enjoy a cocktail on the beach at sunset from the bar at the Siladen Resort and Spa.
