Traversing Sulawesi

📍 Makassar Hasanuddin international Airport – Makassar City Centre (17 km): 30 mins ; Makassar Hasanuddin international Airport - Ramang-Ramang (33,7 km): 60 mins ; Ramang-Ramang - Makassar (44,2 km): 1 hr 15 mins ; Ramang-Ramang - Leang-Leang (19 km): 35 mins ; Leang - Leang - Makassar (42,5 km): 1 hr 05 mins

Arrive in Makassar at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport via morning flight. Makassar, located on Sulawesi Island, has been known historically as Celebes and locally as Ujung Pandang - both names are frequently used by the island's residents. In addition to being the fourth largest island in Indonesia, it also has one of the richest traditions, cultural heritage, ancient history and some of the most exceptional natural wonders. 

Recommended flights (not included in package and quoted separately – airfares and schedules subject to change without prior notice): 

Domestic Flight: Lion Air from Denpasar (DPS) to Makassar (UPG) JT746 departing at 07:00 and arriving at 08:20. or Batik Air from Jakarta (CGK) to Makassar (UPG) by ID6236 departing at 06:00 and arriving at 09:20.

International Flight : Scoot from Singapore (SIN) to Makassar (UPG) TR232 departing at 05:50 and arriving at 08:50.

After a morning flight lands at Hasanuddin Airport, be welcomed by a guide, and the journey then proceeds to Maros Regency. First on the itinerary is a visit to the village of Rammang-Rammang, renowned for its stunning karst scenery. Rammang-Rammang stands out as potentially Sulawesi's most picturesque karst landscape.

Stroll through lush rice paddies nestled in valleys, surrounded by imposing limestone formations. Explore caves and cruise along the Pute River in a traditional Jolloro boat to the village of Berua.

Visit Leang-Leang, also known as Pattea Cave, to view ancient handprints and prehistoric cave paintings. Proceed to Jene Taesa/Parang Tinggia Bats village, where bats coexist peacefully with the local community, hanging in trees and yards.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, embark on a sightseeing tour of Makassar, featuring a visit to Paotere, the city's historic harbor. This bustling port is renowned as the home of the magnificent, world-famous "Phinisi" or Bugis schooners, showcasing the enduring tradition of the Bugis Harbor.

Visit to Port Rotterdam, home to the Lagaligo Museum. This museum is comprised of two buildings, one dedicated to ethnology and the other to history. The tour concludes at Losari Beach, offering a glimpse into local community activities and a view of the unique Colorful Mosque with its 99 domes, followed by hotel check-in.

Dinner at leisure.

Note: Depending on the arrival time a Makassar city tour can be added as well as lunch.

Overnight in Makassar

Inclusions:

🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Makassar – Pare Pare (148 km): approximately 3 hrs 30 mins ; Pare Pare – Rantepao (175km): approximately 4 hrs 30 mins

Following breakfast and hotel check-out, the journey begins towards the Toraja highlands, often referred to as "land of the heavenly kings."  Travel along stunning mountain roads, passing through Bugis villages with their distinctive stilt houses, and proceed onward via Pare Pare.

A seafood lunch awaits at a restaurant in Kupa Beach village. Later, enjoy a coffee break at Bambapuang, offering a spectacular panoramic vista.

The drive continues through the hills reaching Rantepao in the late afternoon. Rantepao is the small capital of Toraja, with an estimated population of around 450,000. The Toraja ethnic group is renowned for their elaborate funeral rites, traditional houses and spectacular carving and dancing. Here, spend the next two days exploring the Toraja villages and learning about their unique culture and customs. 

Check into the hotel in Rantepao.

Dinner at the hotel. 

Overnight in Rantepao

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Rantepao - Lemo (11,5 km): 30 mins ; Lemo - Sanggala Village (8,3 km): 20 mins ; Sanggala - Suaya ( 1 km): 2 mins ; Suaya - Londa (17,1 km): 35 mins ; Lomda - Kete Kesu (7,3 km): 17 mins ; Kete Kesu - Rantepao (3,3 km): 8 mins

Embark southward from Toraja and experience two authentic local villages. After exploring these cultural hotspots, head to the villages of Lemo and Suaya, which are enveloped  by cliffs pierced with graves and tau tau (hanging effigies) of deceased nobility. These cliffs are also referred to as the ‘death balconies’ due to their perilous locations.

Lunch is served in a traditional ‘Liong Tongkonan’ (local name for housing structure). While enjoying some unique local food, learn about the spiritual elements of ancestral Torajan architecture. 

After lunch, visit Londa Village where wooden coffins are suspended by ropes and poles extending from the cliffs.

Continue to Kete Kesu, a village which has one of the finest ensembles of Tongkonan (Toraja traditional houses) on the island. These boat-shaped houses have tall roofs made of slender bristles and create strange silhouettes in the sky. The Tongkonan facades boast many carved and painted motifs and a wooden buffalo head typically adorns the wealthiest homes. Kete Kesu Village also has a rice granary of the traditional Toraja country style.

Return to the hotel afterwards. Dinner will be served in the hotel. 

Overnight in Rantepao

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Rantepao - Pasar Bolu (4,1 km): 13 mins Pasar Bolu - Palawa (8,7 km): 17 mins ; Palawa - Sa’dan Sangkombong (4,1 km): 10 mins ; Sa’dan Sangkombong - Teninbayo (15,3 km): 45 mins ; Teninbayo - Batutumonga (2,9 km): 7 mins ; Batutumonga - Bori (14,9 km): 40 mins ; Bori - Rantepao (10 km): 26 mins

This morning after breakfast, if the timing is right, have the chance to be immersed in the bustling life of the Torajan’s with a visit to their twice-a-week traditional Buffalo Market in Bolu. This market is important to the local society as buffalos and pigs are an essential part of the intricate funeral ceremonies that take place here.

Afterward, visit Palawa village, known for its traditional architecture, and Sa’dan Sangkombong to observe Toraja weaving by local women. 

Ascend to the hills around Rantepao, driving to Batutumonga and stopping at Teninbayo for stunning valley rice field views. Upon arrival in Batutumonga, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. 

According to preferences, take a 1 or 2-hour light trek through fascinating Toraja villages. 

OPTION: 1 HOUR OR 2 HOUR TREKKING

Perched on the slopes of Mt Sesean, these villages offer beautiful views of rice fields dotted with large black rocks -remains of ancient volcanic eruptions. The one-hour trek leads through the villages of Lempo and Tinongbayo, while the easy two-hour walk leads through the villages of Bori and Tikala. In both instances, there will be an opportunity to meet locals and observe their traditional lifestyles. These villages have ancestral stone circles, part of the local lore of the Toraja people, with each stone representing an important noble who has passed away. They also feature impressive Tongkonan houses. (end of trekking)

In the afternoon, visit Bori, featuring megalith stones and a traditional Torajan village. Return to Rantepao, with a stop at a Todi weaving factory where the ancient technique and motifs for Torajans textile known as Ikats are preserved. 

Return to the hotel late in the afternoon.

Dinner at the hotel.

Notes: 

- Bolu Market depends on the schedule and is only held twice a week every Tuesday and Saturday. In case there is no market on the day you visit, we will replace it by a visit to a local market in Rantepao or on the next day.

- Between July and September (dry season) many funerals take place and during this period many Toraja migrants return home for the holidays. The program will be tailored to allow for an attendance of such ceremony during stay in Toraja if desired and possible. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday) such ceremonies do not take place, and there is never any guarantee that it will be possible to attend

Overnight in Rantepao

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Transfer: Rantepao – Pendolo (267 km) - approximately 7 hrs

This morning at 07:30 depart for Pendolo Village at the shore of the Poso Lake. Poso Lake is a deep freshwater lake with white sandy beaches.  It takes about 7 hours drive along the 270 kilometers of mountain road with some stops along the way to enjoy the natural scenery.

Lunch en route at a local restaurant.

Arrive at Pendolo Village in the afternoon and then check-in at simple local lodging hotel.

Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Overnight in Pendolo

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Boat: Pendolo to Tentena (57 km) – approximately 4 hrs boat trip around the lake Tentena – Saluopa Waterfall (23Km): 40 mins

Embark on a motorized wooden boat journey across Lake Poso to Tentena. The trip includes visits to lakeside villages and a cruise past the Buffalo Stone and Grind Stone. 

Arrive in Tentena , get off the boat and proceed to check-in the hotel. 

After freshening up and having lunch, in the afternoon visit Saluopa Waterfalls in Tindoli village, 60 meters high with 9 natural pools. 

Return to hotel, dinner at the hotel.

Note: Be met tonight by a local guide during dinner for a briefing of the upcoming Bada Valley trip. Prepare a light backpack to carry for the 2-days 1-night of staying in Bada. Leave the main luggage in the hotel in Tentena. 

Overnight in Tentena

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Tentena – Gimpu Village (45Km): 1 hr 30 mins ; Gimpu Village – Bada Valley (28Km): 1 hr

After breakfast, start today’s expedition to the Lore Lindu National Park.  Hop on the jeep and travel through the rainforest up the mountain to Bada Valley. 

This UNESCO National Park is classified as a World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Famous for its megaliths dating from before 1300 AD most of them are located in Bada Valley. The origin of these megaliths is until today unknown. Learn all about the local legends around it through the local guide.

Upon arrival in Gimpu village, check-in to the basic Ningsih Homestay and have lunch. Afterwards, an afternoon exploration takes us to Sepe village to witness the impressive Palindo, huge megalith statues. 

Further trekking reveals more megaliths scattered around the village, allowing for interaction with the local community.

Return to the homestay late afternoon, and enjoy a simple dinner at the homestay.

Overnight in Bada Valley

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Gimpu Village – Tentena (45Km): 1 hr 30 mins ; Gimpu Village – Bada Valley (28Km): 1 hr

Begin the day with an early breakfast and then journey to the Malei Rain Forest, located within the South Lore Lindu National Park. 

This area offers opportunities to spot various bird species and the Black Monkey-Makaka, although sightings of the monkey cannot be guaranteed and are subject to availability and program changes which will be discussed with the guide and ranger. 

A packed lunch will be provided and enjoyed on the journey.

Return to Tentena in the afternoon and upon arrival, check-in at the hotel.

Dinner will be served at the hotel

Overnight in Tentena

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Tentena - Parigi (217Km): 5 hrs

After breakfast, a five-hour drive to Parigi awaits, with lunch provided during the journey. 

Upon arrival in the afternoon, you'll find yourself in Parigi, a charming coastal district offering opportunities for swimming or snorkeling just off the hotel.

Overnight in Parigi

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Parigi - Marissa (376 Km): 8 hrs

Following breakfast, an approximately nine-hour scenic drive will take you to Marisa, located on the coast of Tomini Bay, passing through areas with abundant coconut trees.

The journey today includes a unique experience: crossing the equator line. 

Lunch will be provided during the drive. 

Arrive in Marisa in the afternoon and proceed to hotel check-in.

Overnight in Marissa

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Marissa - Gorontalo (163 Km): 4 hrs

Enjoy the breakfast before embarking on a four-hour journey to Gorontalo. 

Upon arrival, lunch will be provided at a restaurant in Gorontalo serving local cuisine.

Gorontalo, a city with charming Dutch architecture, offers unique experiences. Discover the historic Otanaha Fortress and its panoramic views of Lake Limboto. Then, venture to Batubarani village for an unforgettable encounter with Whale Sharks, observed from the tranquility of a paddle canoe.

Dinner will be served in the hotel.

Overnight in Gorontalo 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Gorontalo - Bolaang Mongondow (210 km): 5 hrs 15 mins

Following breakfast, the travel resumes towards Tambun village in the Bolaang Mangondow Selatan Regency. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, including stops along the way and lunch at a local restaurant. 

Arrival at Tambun village in Bolaang Mangondow is expected in the afternoon. Accommodation will be provided at Maleo Homestay, situated on the edge of the Nani Wartabone Forest area. 

Note: Please be aware that accommodations and dining at the homestay are basic.

Overnight in Bolaang Mongondow

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Gorontalo - Bogani Nani Wartabone NP (182 km): 4 hrs 30 mins ; Bogani Nani Wartabone NP - Kotamobagu (61,7 km): 1 hr 25 mins

Depart early morning around 04:00 to Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park in Tambun area, a protected forest with rich biological diversity and a habitat for various flora and fauna. In this park, there are endemic animals namely the maleo bird (Macrocephalon maleo).

Take a soft trek to observe the maleo, a shy bird that is usually active at night and during the hours of dawn and dusk. They do not incubate their nests using body heat; rather, they tap on natural resources of the land, relying on heat from thermal vents or sun-warmed sand to incubate their eggs. 

Birdwatching enthusiasts will be thrilled by the Sulawesi Serpent Eagle, Sulawesi Hawk Eagle, Knobbed and Sulawesi Hornbills, Purple-Winged Roller, and the Golden-Mantled and Yellow-Breasted Racquet-Tails.

Following the exploration of the park, the journey continues with a drive to Kotamobagu for check-in at the hotel.

Overnight in Kotamobagu

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Kotamobagu – Tomohon (5Km): 15 mins

Following breakfast, the journey to Tomohon will commence.

Enjoy the scenic 4-5 hour journey through picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and clove plantations. Opportunities for photos will be available, and a lunch break at a local eatery is included. 

Arrive in the late afternoon in Tomohon, check-in to the hotel, and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Tomohon

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Kotamobagu - Mahawu (26,6 km): 60 minutes Mahawu - Tondano Lake (54,8): 1 hr 30 mins ; Tondano Lake - RBN Wale Mazani (25,5 km): 1 hr ; RBN Wale Mazani - Kayawu (11 km): 25 mins ; Kayawu - Kimabajo (46,4 km): 1 hr 30 mins

Commencing the tour, a drive will ascend to Mount Mahawu, reaching an elevation of 1,222 meters. Along the way, a notable pause will occur at Mount Mahawun, an active volcano and one of three near Tomohon. A short climb will lead to a viewing area at the crater's edge, providing vistas of the caldera and the encompassing terrain.

The journey proceeds to Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi. Nestled within the undulating Minahasa Highlands, the lake features a consistent cool breeze across its vast, reflective waters. Aquaculture farms fringe its banks.

The schedule incorporates a visit to and lunch at RBN Wale Mazani, meaning "House of Sounds" in the Tombulu language. This venue is committed to the conservation of Minahasan arts and culture, emphasizing the traditional "Kolintang" musical instrument. It also functions as a learning hub for Minahasa cultural arts.

A car transfer to Kayawu village precedes a leisurely walk through the rural landscape and rice paddies, offering views of the adjacent Mount Lokon volcano.

Check-in the hotel, and the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Note: Bid farewell to the local guide. For the remainder of the tour, will continue independently, without a guide. 

Overnight in Kimabajo

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Hotel area – Bunaken NP (16Km): approximately 45 mins by boat.

Right after breakfast set-off from the island hopping to Bunaken, Nain and Siladen Islands.

Bunaken, Nain and Siladen Islands belong to the Bunaken National Marine Park created in 1991. Regarded as one of the top scuba diving destinations the national marine park also has terrific snorkeling opportunities for non-divers.

Enjoy the island's incredibly clear turquoise waters and spend the day snorkeling off the main beaches.

Lunch will be served during the trip.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Kimabajo

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

Begin the day with breakfast, followed by a relaxing day at your own pace.

Lunch and dinner will be served at the hotel

Overnight in Kimabajo 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Hotel area - Sam Ratulangi Airport Manado (14Km): approximately 30 mins

Breakfast at the hotel and spend the remainder of the day free at leisure until pick up time for the transfer to Manado airport and the onward flight to the next destination.

Recommended flights (not included in package and quoted separately – airfares and schedules subject to change without prior notice): 

Domestic flight: Lion Air  from Manado to Jakarta JT749 MDC 13:10 – CGK 16:55, daily

International flight: Scoot from Manado  to Singapore TR247,  MDC 18:05 - SIN 21:40 daily.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast