All the Beauty of Sulawesi: From Bugis Shores to Northern Coral Reefs
An initiatory journey through Sulawesi, from Toraja territories to the reefs of Bunaken.
Duration
40 days
From
€4,050/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
This exceptional journey crosses the island of Sulawesi from south to north, revealing all the diversity of its landscapes and cultures. From the maritime villages of Makassar to the coral reefs of Bunaken National Park, the itinerary alternates between wild beaches, volcanic mountains, mysterious lakes and ancestral Toraja territories. This immersive expedition favors slowness, human encounters and exploration of some of Indonésie's richest ecosystems.
This circuit is a true initiatory crossing of Sulawesi, connecting its ancestral cultures, its spectacular landscapes and its marine ecosystems among the richest in Southeast Asia.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Millennial caves
Early departure to the Maros region to discover, by motorboat, the impressive archaeological site of Rammang Rammang. The Leang-Leang caves notably revealed traces of human presence dating back at least 5,000 years. The rock paintings in the Maros cave, meanwhile, date back approximately 4,000 years.
Return to Makassar in the afternoon.
Transfers: 1h30
Shipyards
Road to Bira, located on the western tip of the island. Along the way, visit shipbuilding yards (mainly in Tanaberu). Renowned for supplying the finest wooden boats in Sulawesi and probably in Indonésie, the carpenters still use ancestral techniques without any construction plans, relying solely on know-how passed down from father to son. The "pinisi" schooners (large cargo ships) can reach over 30 meters and nearly 200 tons.
Relaxing afternoon by the sea, and visit to traditional Bugis houses where ikat is woven.
Transfers: 4h30-5h
Rest in paradise
Free days to relax and enjoy the white sand beaches, or simply the hotel facilities.
Possibility to rent a boat for snorkeling (or fishing) around Liukang island.
Tempe Lake
Early morning departure to Sengkang, located on the shores of Lake Tempe, a paradise and refuge for hundreds of birds (350 km² in area but barely 5 meters deep). Visit rubber plantations along the way.
In the afternoon, departure by long motorized canoe to discover the treasures of Lake Tempe and its avifauna: dozens of egrets, herons, etc. take flight as our boat makes its way through an astonishing vegetable universe that closes behind you.
Meeting with fishermen who live permanently on the lake in bamboo floating houses (in August, you can attend the "Maccera Tappareng" festival intended to purify the lake's waters). Back in Sengkang, visit silk weaving workshops.
Transfers: 4-5h
Toraja Country
First discovery of the amazing universe that constitutes all the originality of the Toraja people through a visit to the pig and buffalo market.
Then, visits to the sites of Lemo, Suaya, Kete, Londa, Bri, Tampang Allo, which will allow you an in-depth approach to the particular relationship that the Toraja maintain with death... Possibility of attending an impressive funeral ceremony (ceremonies very frequent).
Transfers: 3h
Mountain biking in nature
Morning transfer to Alang Lang, starting point for a superb mountain bike ride to the village of Bori, where you stop to admire megaliths called "Rante" and baby tombs nestled in tree trunks.
Continue your ride towards Lombongan, Sa'dan and Nanggala where the vehicle picks you up.
Return to the hotel in the afternoon. Transfers: 2h Mountain bike: 4h30
Trek among the Toraja
Morning transfer to Sangkurapi, the starting point of your 4-day trek through Toraja country. Rice fields, forests, rivers and authentic villages will be your daily scenery. Arrival in Karonanga in the afternoon.
Free time until dinner, which you share with the locals, who use bamboo in surprising ways in their cooking. Transfers: 1h Hiking: 5-6h
Authentic Encounters
You continue your trek through stunning terraced rice fields, bamboo forests and traditional villages. The climb to the villages of Karunanga, Lempo and Batutumonga (1,300 m) is quite steep, but the effort is worth it: authentic encounters with people rarely accustomed to seeing foreigners!
Hiking: 6-7 hours
Toraja Landscapes
Short transfer to Loko'Mata, where you first visit traditional funeral tombs.
Then you begin your day's trek through terraced rice fields, rivers, suspended bridges heading to the village of Limbong.
Transfers: 1h
Hiking: 6h
Return to Rantepao
Last day of trekking, once again through rice fields, traditional villages, bamboo forests. Arrival in Rantepao in late afternoon.
Transfers: 1h
Hiking: 5h
Rafting
The day is dedicated to rafting along the beautiful Sa'dan river: another way to discover the riches of Toraja.
Transfers: 1h
Rafting: 4h
Towards Central Sulawesi
Long road to central Sulawesi to Pendolo, located south of Lake Poso. This immense lake, 323 km2 in area, is one of the deepest on the planet (450m) and its waters are considered among the purest in the world (their temperature is almost constant – around 26-30 ° regardless of depth).
Transfers: 7h
Lake Poso
In the morning, you have the possibility to swim in the warm waters of the lake (but be warned: local legend speaks of the presence of a Loch Ness-type monster...). Transfer in the afternoon to Tentena, via a few Balinese villages, Saluopa waterfall and even a fish market.
Transfers: 2h30
Lore Lindu National Park
Morning transfer to Lore Lindu park. This 2290 km2 park was classified as a biosphere reserve by the United Nations. Located between 200m and 2,620m altitude, the wildlife it harbors is particularly rich. In addition to 227 bird species, including the Red-horned Hornbill (the largest on the planet), you can also encounter the very discreet Anoa or the very rare Babirusa, not forgetting the "cuscus" (possum), the giant civet and 3 species of tarsiers (the smallest mammal on the planet...).
Transfers: 2 hours
Hiking: 1-2 hours
Bada Valley
Day of multiple discoveries: wildlife and strange giant megaliths (4m high) in the Bada valley. Along the Laliang river, these marks of the past remain unexplained to this day... These statues seem to watch over the surrounding villages and their inhabitants. Return to Tentena in late afternoon.
Transfers: 2h
Hiking: 1-2h
Towards Paradise
In the early morning, embark on a speed-ferry heading to the Togian Islands.
Transfers: 2h30
Togian Islands
The Togian Islands constitute an archipelago of 56 islands and islets, 30 km south of the Equator, located in Tomini Bay. Emerging from volcanic activity, the islands are covered with tropical forest and bordered by coral reefs. The average water temperature is 31°C and underwater visibility reaches 40 to 50 meters. The marine and terrestrial ecosystem has remained in a virgin and wild state, which is extremely rare.
The coasts and coral reefs form an excellent habitat for many wild animals specific to the Togian Islands, such as turtles, dugongs, macaques, parrots, and babirusa pigs.
In the heart of this paradise, live 37 villages from different ethnic cultures, such as the Bobongko, the Togian, the Saluan, as well as the Bajau, nicknamed the nomads of the seas.
These four days are dedicated to exploring this small paradise: Unauna and its active volcano Colo, Malengue and its fauna, the Bajau villages and, of course, underwater depths of great beauty.
Transfers: 2h
Hiking: 2h (elevation changes: +100 m / -150m)
Towards Luwuk
From Togian Islands
Departure by speed-ferry to Ampana, then transfer to Luwuk.
Transfers: 7h
Paradise on earth
Towards Manado
Return by ferry to Luwuk, and transfer to the airport, where you board a plane to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi.
Continue to Tomohon, a small mountain town located in the heart of the subduction volcanism of the Sangihe Arc. Stay in a magnificent lodge nestled in the middle of an extraordinary garden facing 3 active volcanoes: Soputan, Lokon and Mahawu.
Transfers: 5h30
Volcanoes & Lake
Easy ascent of the Mahawu volcano and discovery of its acid lake (superb views of the Lokon volcano, the Minahasa region and the tip of the Sulawesi island).
Descent and drive to the Tandano caldera lake. Visit a fish farm "ikan mas" and lunch in a traditional restaurant on the lakeside.
Return to Tomohon and ascent of the active Lokon volcano (approximately 1h30). Depending on volcanic activity, possibility to descend to the bottom of the crater.
Transfers: 2h
Hiking: 5h (elevation gain: +500m / -500m)
Volcano Soputan
The Summit of the Gods
In the middle of the night, beginning of the final ascent of the enormous lava dome of Soputan (1,805m). Since the year 2000, this volcano has experienced very intense activity and is therefore closely monitored. Its activity is typical of stratovolcanoes, strombolian, plinian with pyroclastic flows (lahars – mud flows – during the rainy season). Observation of the dome and sunrise over the caldera lake Tandano. The view extends to the volcanoes Klabat and Tangkoko, encompassing the coral islands and Bunaken National Park.
Descent and road to Lake Tandano. This 30 km long lake is of purely volcanic origin. Surrounded by rice fields, one of the local specialties is farmed here, including "ikan mas", a type of goldfish that can reach several tens of kilos.
Lunch by the lake and transfer to Lake Linau, a sulphur lake with a striking green color that changes hue with the subtle play of light.
Return to the hotel and free afternoon to enjoy its extraordinary garden.
Transfers: 1h30
Hiking: 5-6h (elevation gain: +270m / -800m)
Minahasan Civilization and Lost Paradise
Visit to the famous Tomohon market, a true green lung at the tip of Sulawesi island, which supplies vegetables, fruits and meats to the northern islands. Then drive to Manado, visit of a Waruga cemetery, witnesses of ancient civilizations that buried their dead sitting in strange tombs.
Short visit of Manado as well and drive to Pulisan. This small paradise nestled at the very end of Sulawesi island has one of the most beautiful beaches in northern Sulawesi. Stay in charming little bungalows, by the water.
Transfers: 2h30
Tangkoko National Park
Very early and by perahu (local fishing boat), departure for a long day of trekking to discover Tangkoko National Park (9,000 hectares) and its semi-active volcano (last eruption in 1880). This long walk through rainforest will be an opportunity to encounter rich and varied wildlife.
Small in size, this park contains treasures, including the world's highest concentration of hornbills (including the Rhinoceros Hornbill), endemic black macaques as well as the nocturnal and extraordinary tarsier (the smallest mammal on the planet), not to mention the Maleo, this strange gallinaceous bird that lays enormous eggs and buries them under volcanic ash to hatch them faster.
Return to Pulisan in late afternoon.
Transfers: 1h30 Trekking: 3h
Bunaken National Park
Speed-boat transfer to Bunaken National Park. Located at the northeastern tip of Sulawesi island, it comprises five islands: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Nain and Montehage, as well as two coastal areas of the Celebes island.
The Bunaken Park extends over 89,065 ha. Its marine biodiversity is one of the most important in the world, which is why it is classified as a "priority region" by the WWF.
These four days are free for you to enjoy the underwater environment, or the hotel facilities.
Transfers: 50 mins
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Flights & Other Domestic Flights
- Insurance & Assistance
- Visas & possible airport taxes
- Beverages, Personal Expenses & Tips
- Everything that is not mentioned in "Inclusions"
Included
- English-speaking guide and team of porters
- Domestic flight Luwuk – Manado
- Ground transfers in a private and air-conditioned vehicle
- Maritime transfers
- Rafting
- Bed & Breakfast Accommodations
- Meals mentioned in the program above
- Site entries, trek permits & donations
- Mineral water and energy supplement during trekking days
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns tourists entering Indonesia. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities of your country of residence and with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before your departure.
Passport
To enter Indonesia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa exemption for tourist stays in Indonesia. Entry requirements vary by nationality and should be verified with the Indonesian embassy or consulate of your country of residence.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Formalities on arrival
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival declaration via the official Indonesian customs and immigration portal (e-CD, Electronic Customs Declaration).
This form allows you to transmit to the authorities certain information necessary for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details and itinerary
address of first accommodation in Indonesia
declaration of goods and currency carried
A confirmation QR code may be requested when passing through customs and immigration controls.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Indonesia, except in case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case an international vaccination certificate may be required.
As a precaution, it is advisable to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies are commonly recommended for stays in Indonesia. Antimalarial treatment may also be recommended depending on the regions visited (particularly outside Bali and major cities).
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to exit the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Entry requirements by nationality
Entry conditions vary depending on nationality. Travelers should consult the Indonesian embassy or consulate of their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, find out about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the agreement detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this agreement with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A Visa on Arrival (35 USD) is required upon arrival, valid for an initial stay and extendable once. You can also obtain an e-VOA online before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Before booking, check the conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailored trip, plan between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. The archipelago allows you to combine beaches, volcanoes, jungle and culture at attractive rates.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each circuit to the travelers' profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you get the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Sulawesi
Photographer of Indonesian volcanoes and trails, based in Yogyakarta
Before drawing up an itinerary, you have to observe, walk, listen to the locals and understand the place. Only then can an adventure trip remain authentic.
— Dominic
