Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 04/2016 | Page 42

EAT, SLEEP, DIVE, REPEAT

MUST-DO’S

02 The view

southwards from Dive
into Lembeh resort

SDOP

TANGKOKO
NATURE RESERVE

RIVER RAFTING
HALF DAY

FULL-DAY OR HALF-DAY OPTION

North of Bitung at the foot of
Dua Saudara Moutain, this Nature
reserve, open all year round, is a
must-do. Unique wildlife can be
seen roaming the reserve and a
local guide or ranger is strongly
recommended. The black crested
macaques (endemic to Sulawesi),
maleo birds and hornbills can all be
observed as you walk through the
forest. Home to the Tarsius tarsier,
the world’s smallest primate, these
cute nocturnal animals can only
be observed when it starts to get
dark. Bring a torch along with you
but be considerate as they have
very sensitive eyes. Wear light
clothing but long trousers, socks
and sleeves to minimise scratches
and insect bites. Robust, closed
footwear, binoculars, dry bag
and a large bottle of water are
essential.

© 123RF/ akiyoko

Lembeh is primarily all about
diving and underwater
photography. For nightlife,
cinemas and shopping you could
head to the nearby, thriving port
city of Bitung, or even over to
the regional capital Manado, but
they are not on your doorstep
and most socialising, after dive
drinking and eating takes place at
your resort.
However, Minahasa is a very
rich area, both culturally and
environmentally, and there is
plenty to see and do for days off
or non-diving companions.

Approximately two hours from
Bitung, the adventure starts
from the village of Sonder in the
Minahasan Highlands. This wet
and wild ride down the Minanga
river will take about 1½ hours.
Rapids levels are between three
and four and are fun and nonintimidating. Pack a change of
dry clothes. Pick up from your
resort at 8am and you’ll be
back by 3pm.

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