“Ayo jo ka Manado” is the first sentence I read when I first arrived at Sam Ratulangi International airport. Manado, North Sulawesi means an invitation to “let’s go to Manado!”. This city famous for its tincture cuisine is located on the eastern side of Indonesia with abundant natural wealth. One of them is a marine park that is very famous throughout the world called Bunaken.
But to get to the province of North Sulawesi without a guide, without taking an open trip, without having friends who live in Manado, you definitely need careful preparation. That’s what I want to share on this occasion.
Why Bunaken?
Bunaken is an island with an area of approximately 8 km². I used to think that Bunaken was a bathing place like a water park, hahaha but that was when I was in elementary school and, the technology wasn’t as advanced as it is today. I was told by word of mouth that Bunaken has a very beautiful garden but under the sea.
Bunaken is the first national marine park established in Indonesia in 1991 which later became a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO in 2005. Therefore, it is very unfortunate that we as Indonesians have traveled abroad but have not had the chance to see the beauty of Bunaken.
Another reason why Bunaken is different from other marine parks is that there are great underwater walls, also known as hanging walls, which means giant coral walls that stand vertically and curve upwards.
Where is Bunaken Located?
Bunaken National Park is located in the province of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, or more precisely opposite the city of Manado is also the capital of the province. This beautiful marine park which is familiarly called Bunaken is located right in the golden triangle of the world’s coral reefs spread from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste to the Solomon Islands with various types of coral reefs.
Bunaken National Park is located between five islands that are no less beautiful, namely Nain Island, Bunaken Island, Manado Tua Island, Siladen Island, and Mantehage Island, along with the surrounding 20,000 people on the five islands.
What Can be Done?
- Snorkeling is a mandatory thing that you must do when you come here.
- Diving is the main goal of local and foreign divers when here.
- Beach tourism can be done, but in my opinion, the coast in Bunaken is the same as other beaches in general in Indonesia. The striking advantage is only the beautiful marine park that can spoil the eye.
- Sunbathing is also something that is often done by tourists who are here.
- Camping and family picnics are mostly done on weekends.
Transportation to Bunaken
Here’s the complete itinerary that I’ve made to get to Bunaken myself safely:
- Take a plane from your hometown to Sam Ratulangi International Airport (Rp 400,000 – Rp 600,000 if starting from Makassar).
- Take the Airport Bus for 30 minutes to the Pal 2 Bus terminal for IDR 35,000 (if the bus operating hours are over, take a taxi with prices starting at IDR 60,000).
- Take an angkot for 10 minutes to the market 45 Rp. 4,000,-.
- 10 minutes walk to Kuala Jangki Jetty / Marina Pier / Kalimas Pier.
- Take a 45-minute PP boat rental to Bunaken island Rp. 1,100,000, – maximum capacity of 15 people/boat.
- Take a 45-minute boat ride to Bunaken Rp. 30,000, – with a departure schedule at 09.00 am and return at the same time the next day.
Entrance Ticket Prices While in Bunaken
- Student/Student Ticket : IDR 1,000,-/day
- Local Tourist Ticket IDR 2,500,-/day
- International Tourist Ticket IDR 50.000,-/day
- Children under 10 years old tickets are free
- Snorkeling equipment rental IDR 100.000,-
- Rent clothes IDR 50.000,-
- Diving equipment rental IDR 750.000,-
- Lodging in Bunaken from IDR 500,000/night
- Lodging at a resident’s house starts from IDR 100,000 -/night
Tips to Bunaken with a Daypack:
- If you want cheap, go in groups so that you can jointly rent the boat.
- Bring food and snacks to save on expenses on the island and also save time. While diving/snorkeling, you can have lunch on the boat.
- Bring your snorkel gear if you have one.
- If you are short on time, I suggest leaving in the morning at 07.00 and returning at 16.00 so that you can enjoy Manado cuisine.
- Don’t forget to bring sunblock.
- Depart between April – September because not a few people go to Bunaken but don’t match the sea view due to bad weather.
- If you want to rent a boat for Rp 700,000, – round trip.
- Take an open trip which is usually more economical if you are still hesitant to go alone. The cost is only Rp. 200,000, – but you have to follow the schedule and rundown trip that has been made.
Well, that was the detailed information that I can share about Bunaken and its transportation. Hopefully, it can be useful for friends who want to travel to the tip of the island of Sulawesi. My general impression is that Manado is a city that is safe, peaceful, and has friendly people. So don’t worry if it’s your first time in Manado!
Before you plan a trip to Bunaken, be sure to read more about Bunaken and Indonesia by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.