In North Sulawesi, approximately 15 km south-southwest of Manado, the Lokon and Empung volcanoes tower over the Tondano plain. Rising respectively to 1,580 m and 1,340 m, these twin peaks rank among Indonesia's active volcanoes and form a favored hiking destination from the town of Tomohon, except during periods of eruptive activity.

Why visit the Lokon and Empung volcanoes

The Lokon-Empung volcanic complex holds both geological and sporting interest. The active Tompaluan crater, situated in the saddle between the two edifices, bears witness to regular activity documented since the 14th century. The hike crosses contrasting landscapes, from the villages of Tomohon and Kinilow to the bare flanks of the crater, where the smell of sulfur and fumaroles remind you that the volcano remains under constant watch. It's also an opportunity to connect with Minahasan culture, unique to this region of North Sulawesi.

The eruptive history of the Lokon-Empung complex

The volcano has experienced at least 21 eruptions since 1375. The two earliest, dating to 1375, originated from the Empung cone and reached a volcanic explosivity index (VEI) of 3. From 1829 onward, the source of eruptions shifted toward the Tompaluan crater, situated between the two peaks, which has since concentrated most of the activity.

The majority of recorded eruptions have remained moderate, predominantly phreatic in type, sometimes accompanied by lava dome formation and associated flows. The activity has nevertheless triggered earthquakes, ash plumes, and tragic incidents, including the loss of a Swiss hiker in 1991.

The 2011-2012 eruptive sequence

In July 2011, nearly 5,000 residents were evacuated in the face of renewed activity, though most returned home afterward. A 3 km exclusion zone around the crater was established. On October 26, 2011, volcanic bombs were ejected up to 800 m from the Tompaluan crater. Two subsequent eruptions followed: the first on December 6, 2012, marked by a succession of explosions emitting sustained ash clouds; the second on December 10, dominated by degassing. According to the Darwin VAAC, these two events produced clouds reaching 3.4 and 4.3 km altitude respectively. The last recorded eruption dates to May 2015.

What you observe on the ground

Lokon, the older of the two edifices, presents a flat summit without a crater, formed by andesitic volcanism along annular fractures. Empung, more recent, offers a well-defined crater 400 m wide and 150 m deep. Between the two, the saddle shelters the active Tompaluan crater, the main observation point for those wishing to see fumarolic activity up close.

From the slopes, views extend across the Tondano plain, its rice paddies, and the lake occupying the former caldera. On clear days, you can also spot the Manado coast to the north.

Practical information

• Main starting point: Tomohon, located 6 km southeast of Lokon.
• Alternative: Kinilow, a village 5 km north of Tomohon, on the Manado-Tomohon road.
• Hiking duration: plan for 3 to 4 hours round-trip from base to Tompaluan; 5 to 6 hours for the combined Tompaluan-Empung hike from Kinilow.
• Level: moderate hike, occasionally steep slopes and loose volcanic terrain in the upper section.
• Guides: available through the Volcanological Center or Tomohon accommodations. Half-day excursions can also be arranged from Manado with local agencies.
• Safety: respect the 3 km exclusion zone when active and verify the volcano's status with local authorities before starting your ascent.
• What to bring: hiking boots, water, windbreaker, headlamp in case of early morning departure, mask in case of gas emissions.

When to go

The dry season, roughly May to October in North Sulawesi, offers the best hiking conditions: less slippery trails, clear visibility over the Tondano plain, and sunrise from the summit. During the wet season, tropical downpours make clay slopes treacherous and views often obscured. Regardless of season, the ascent remains dependent on the volcano's alert status: if activity increases, access to the Tompaluan crater is prohibited.

How to get there

The regional entry point is Manado, capital of North Sulawesi, served by Sam Ratulangi International Airport. Tomohon lies about 25 km south, accessible by public bus throughout the day and any day of the week, or by taxi. From Tomohon, access to the foot of Lokon is easy by ojek (motorcycle taxi) through the lanes. For the Kinilow alternative, get off the Manado-Tomohon bus at the village.

What to see nearby

The Tomohon-Manado region offers other natural and cultural experiences: the traditional market of Tomohon, hot springs at Lahendong, Lake Tondano, and diving in Bunaken Marine Park off the coast of Manado. To extend an Indonesian itinerary focused on nature, you can combine Sulawesi with other volcanic or island regions:

• Komodo Island, for its dragons and dry landscapes.
• Rinca Island, a more discreet alternative for observing monitor lizards.
• Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, in Sumatra, another fine hiking stop.
• Bali Botanic Garden, for a more restful interlude.

Frequently asked questions

Extend the experience in Indonesia

The Lokon-Empung complex fits naturally into an itinerary in North Sulawesi combining volcanoes, Minahasan markets, and diving at Bunaken. To build a custom trip incorporating this stop, consult our Indonesia travel suggestions.