Bunaken is a small island located in the province of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Bunaken is a paradise for divers and nature lovers because its main attraction is Bunaken National Marine Park. Not just an ordinary national park, Bunaken National Marine Park offers extraordinary marine biodiversity.
The beautiful coral reefs and diverse fish and marine life make Bunaken a prime destination for international divers. Besides diving activities, tourists can also enjoy the beauty of the white sandy beaches around the island. Tourists are also allowed to snorkel to see the amazing marine life.
The culture in Bunaken is reflected in the ethnic diversity of its people, especially the Bajo tribe, who are the indigenous people of Bunaken Island. They have unique customs and traditions, and their daily lives are closely tied to the sea.
The uniqueness of Bunaken also lies in its pristine natural beauty with dense mangrove forests and fascinating terrestrial biodiversity. With a combination of stunning underwater scenery, rich culture, and a unique ecosystem, Bunaken becomes a captivating destination for travelers seeking authentic and extraordinary natural experiences.
Tourists can rent private boats for trips to Bunaken from Manado Port or resorts around Manado. However, it's important to remember that transportation in Bunaken is highly dependent on weather conditions, and trips can be affected by waves or bad weather.
Besides diving, Bunaken offers a variety of enjoyable activities for tourists who want to explore its natural beauty. One of the main options is snorkeling, which allows visitors to enjoy the stunning underwater scenery without having to undergo diving training.
Furthermore, trekking around Bunaken Island is a popular activity that allows tourists to explore the island's terrestrial beauty. Visitors can explore the dense mangrove forests, witness the diversity of flora and fauna, and enjoy spectacular views from the cliffs and hillsides.
Bunaken also offers a relaxing beach experience, where visitors can enjoy the sunshine and clear sea water and frolic on the white sandy beaches. Additionally, visiting the local villages around Bunaken can be an interesting experience.
In Bunaken, several recommended resorts and accommodations offer comfortable accommodations and high-quality services. One popular resort is Siladen Resort & Spa, which offers luxurious villas with spectacular sea views and comprehensive facilities.
Moreover, Thalassa Resort Bunaken is also a good choice, with clean and comfortable rooms and friendly, professional staff. For those looking for more affordable accommodation experiences, Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort provides comfortable bungalows with direct beach access and comprehensive diving facilities.
Additionally, visitors can also choose to stay in simple accommodations managed by residents around the island, offering a more modest and authentic lodging experience.
You can dive in Bunaken even if you're not a certified diver. Bunaken offers various diving spots suitable for beginners or those without diving certification.
Tour operators will provide beginner diving training programs called "Discover Scuba Diving" or "Try Dive," which allow beginners to experience diving under the supervision of experienced instructors.
The most common way to get to Bunaken from the nearest airport or port is by maritime transportation. If you arrive at Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, you can take a taxi or shuttle service available at the airport to go to Manado Port.
From there, you can take a ferry or speedboat to Bunaken Island. This sea journey usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the weather conditions and the type of boat used.
The best time to visit Bunaken is during the dry season, which is from April to October. During this period, the weather tends to be clearer and more stable, creating ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling activities. The sea water is also usually calmer and clearer, allowing tourists to enjoy the beautiful underwater scenery.
However, it's important to note that Bunaken can be crowded during holiday seasons or peak tourism periods. If you're looking for a quieter atmosphere, it might be better to visit between April and June or between September and October.
Bunakenのための旅行のヒント