10-Day North Sulawesi Birding Adventure
A ten-day guided birding journey through Tangkoko, Gunung Ambang, Bogani Nani Wartabone and the Minahasa Highlands for Sulawesi endemic birds.
About this tour
Explore four of North Sulawesi's most important birding areas on a ten-day route led by an experienced local guide. The journey begins in Manado and moves through the lowland forest of Tangkoko, the montane habitat of Gunung Ambang, the broad forest landscapes of Bogani Nani Wartabone and the highlands around Tomohon.
Tangkoko provides early opportunities for Sulawesi endemics in dense forest. The itinerary then travels west through changing elevations, with time around Gunung Ambang for montane birds before two full days inside Bogani Nani Wartabone. The final birding stage covers the Minahasa Highlands, including Lake Tondano and Lake Linow, before returning to Manado.
Jemy Lambaihang began guiding birdwatchers in Sulawesi in 1998 and previously volunteered with the Wildlife Conservation Society at Tangkoko Nature Reserve. He now organizes independent birding programs from his base beside Tangkoko National Park.
The package includes the professional birding guide, airport transfers, accommodation, full-board meals, transport within the itinerary, park and reserve entrance fees, bottled water and snacks. International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, optional activities and personal birding equipment are not included. The published program allows up to twelve participants. Dates and the current price are confirmed after inquiry.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Indonesia.
Guides
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Manado and transfer to Tangkoko
Meet the guide at Sam Ratulangi International Airport or the confirmed Manado pickup point, then transfer to accommodation beside Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Settle in for dinner and a briefing on the route and target birds.
Day 2
Tangkoko lowland forest birding
Spend a full day birding Tangkoko's lowland forest and selected trails. The guide adjusts the route to current activity and opportunities for endemic kingfishers, hornbills and other forest birds.
Day 3
Second full day in Tangkoko
Continue exploring different parts of the reserve, using the extra day to revisit productive areas and seek species missed during the first session.
Day 4
Tangkoko to Kotamobagu and Gunung Ambang
Travel toward Kotamobagu and begin birding around Gunung Ambang. The montane forest provides a new set of habitats and an opportunity to search for birds such as Cinnabar Boobook.
Day 5
Gunung Ambang to Bogani Nani Wartabone
Begin with another Gunung Ambang session, then travel toward the park's western forest and stop for birds along the way. Overnight in the Doloduo or Toraut area according to group size and availability.
Day 6
Bogani Nani Wartabone birding
Spend a full day exploring forest habitats in Bogani Nani Wartabone. The plan focuses on endemic birds and allows the guide to select the most productive trails for current conditions.
Day 7
Second full day in Bogani Nani Wartabone
Use a second full day to cover additional habitats and continue the search for regional specialties such as Maleo, Purple-bearded Bee-eater and Sulawesi Pitta.
Day 8
Transfer to Tomohon
Travel from Kotamobagu toward Tomohon in the Minahasa Highlands. Birding stops are made when useful, followed by an evening at the highland accommodation.
Day 9
Minahasa Highlands and return to Manado
Bird the highland forests and lake habitats around Tomohon, including Lake Tondano and Lake Linow when conditions allow. Return to Manado after the final main birding session.
Day 10
Departure from Manado
After breakfast, take an optional short birding session if the flight schedule permits, then transfer to Sam Ratulangi International Airport for departure.
Locations & map
- Tangkoko Nature Reserve - North Sulawesi Indonesia (Humid lowland forest with early-morning, daytime and optional nocturnal observation.)
- Gunung Ambang Nature Reserve - North Sulawesi Indonesia (Cooler montane forest where weather and trail conditions can change quickly.)
- Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park - North Sulawesi Indonesia (Lowland to montane forest with long birding days and varied trail conditions.)
- Minahasa Highlands - North Sulawesi Indonesia (Highland forest, lakes and open habitats around Tomohon.)
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Available on request. The exact program and bird activity depend on season, weather, park access and current local condi
Price: Price on request
Included
- Professional local birding guide - Guiding throughout the ten-day route.
- Accommodation - Lodges, hotels and homestays as described in the itinerary or confirmed alternatives.
- Full-board meals - Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the package.
- Transfers and route transport - Airport transfers and transport between the listed birding areas.
- Park entrance fees - Entrance fees for parks and reserves on the confirmed route.
Not included
- International airfare - Flights to and from Manado are not included.
- Travel insurance - Guests arrange suitable travel and medical insurance.
- Personal equipment and expenses - Binoculars, cameras, personal medication, tips, souvenirs and other personal costs are not included.
Transport & stays
- Private road transport and guided walking Road transfers connect Manado, Tangkoko, Kotamobagu, Bogani Nani Wartabone and Tomohon. Birding is mainly on foot at each site. | Meet: Sam Ratulangi International Airport or a confirmed Manado pickup point. | Pickup: Airport pickup and final airport transfer are included in the package.
Accommodations
- Tangkoko lodge Confirmed with the final proposal
- Kotamobagu hotel and Bogani-area homestay Confirmed with the final proposal
- Tomohon and Manado accommodation Confirmed with the final proposal
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
Is the itinerary fixed?
The four principal birding areas form the core route, but timing, trails and accommodation may change with weather, access, current sightings and availability.
What should guests bring?
Bring binoculars, suitable camera equipment, comfortable hiking shoes, light clothing, rain protection, sun protection, insect repellent and personal medication.
Are target birds guaranteed?
No. The route is designed around suitable habitats for Sulawesi endemics, but all sightings depend on natural conditions and current bird activity.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.