Indonesia Scuba Diving

Frequently Asked Questions

Indonesia is one of the world's most diverse and sought-after scuba diving destinations, offering everything from vibrant coral reefs and massive schools of fish to thrilling encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, and even rare critters like pygmy seahorses and rhinopias. Spanning across the heart of the Coral Triangle, Indonesia boasts some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet, making it a bucket-list destination for divers of all levels.

With thousands of islands and countless dive sites, Indonesia offers 2 main ways to explore its underwater treasures. Multi-day liveaboards diving expeditions are the best way to access remote, world-class dive destinations such as Raja Ampat, Komodo, Alor, the Banda Sea, and the Forgotten Islands. Whereas resort-based diving is ideal for those who prefer land-based accommodations while diving stunning locations like Bali, North Sulawesi (Lembeh and Bunaken), and Wakatobi, offering everything from muck diving to pristine coral walls.

This page covers everything you need to know about diving in Indonesia, from the best dive sites and seasons to choosing between liveaboards and resorts. Whether you're a macro photography enthusiast, a drift dive adrenaline-seeker, or someone looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, this guide will help you plan your perfect Indonesian diving experience.

Questions and Answers

Diving FAQs

Where is the best scuba diving in Indonesia?

We recommend liveaboards as the best way to experience the diving destinations of Indonesia. There are various routes including the Komodo National Park where the clear, cool water promises some excellent scuba with an abundance of colour and life. These trips also take you ashore to see the Komodo dragons.

Going further east means really getting the feeling of frontier diving in Raja Ampat where aficionados believe the best diving in Indonesia is really to be found. Part of the attraction here is the lack of other divers. There is also a great spread of sites, from dives with the small and bizarre in the caves system of Misool Island to the big pelagics in the Banda Sea. In recent years areas, less famous but very exciting places such as Cenderawasih Bay (whale shark encounters) and Triton Bay are more regularly featured in West Papua liveaboard itineraries.

In terms of bio-diversity (numbers of different types of fish and coral etc) Bunaken Marine Park, near Manado in Sulawesi, is of world renown. Nearby is the Lembeh Strait which is widely believed to be the best place in the world for macro life - here you can see all manner of bizarre critters.

So it is hard to say where is best as everywhere offers something different and everybody has their own idea as to what's great. What is certain is that the marine bio-diversity and topside scenery make Indonesia one of the very finest diving destinations in the world. Review your options in our Indonesia dive destinations section.

What about diving in Bali, is it any good?

Most definitely. If Bali was located in any country other than Indonesia, then it would be championed as one of the best places in the world! Arguably the best scuba diving in Bali is in Lembongan Island where there are fields of pristine coral and at the right time of year, Mola Mola, manta rays and sharks. Currents at some of the sites can be very strong, so the operator we recommend here is a very professional and safety conscious outfit. Diving with them takes away many of the concerns and helps you to experience some wonderful sites.

Tulamben, in the north east of the mainland, is the most famous Bali dive destination, with the Liberty Wreck lying in shallow, still water. Off the east coast near Candi Dasa there are a selection of sites varying in difficulty from easy open water dives to tricky current. This is a good place for healthy coral and big fish.

Where are the best places for beginner divers?

There are some areas of Bali that are very easy and good for inexperienced divers but also plenty of places with swells and currents It is important that the dive conditions can range from flat calm seas with great visibility to rip-roaring currents where it pays to dive with a responsible dive operator. Check out our Bali dive site descriptions to see what might, or might not suit you. Manado is also okay for beginners as the visibility is normally good and conditions suitable for the less assured scuba diver.

Indonesian liveaboards are not really suitable for beginner divers as some of the Komodo sites can require a cool and experienced head (although the good liveaboard safari operators will keep everyone informed as to the skill levels required on any day).

Since it is on the equator I presumably only need a 3 mm shortie - right?

Not necessarily! Be sure to check out what exposure suits we recommend for the destination you are interested in. We have known of people making that assumption on a Komodo liveaboard safari only to find themselves aborting dives due to cold upwellings giving them an instant ice-cream headache. Not nice when all your friends are enjoying diving with playful mantas from the warmth of their thick suits!

As a single diving traveller, will there be a single supplement at my resort?

The majority of dive resorts in Indonesia, particularly in Bali, treat single travellers as hotels do, i.e. there will be a single supplement to pay and you will stay alone in your room. Single supplements are detailed on each resort page. We can also clarify the amount of any single supplements that apply.

Where should I take my Open Water Course in Bali?

Diving in Bali is not all for beginners as you might think. There are some sites that are very easy but also plenty of places with swells and currents where it pays to be diving with a professional centre. Since there is so much competition for business in Bali some operators tend to take inexperienced divers to places where they might find it difficult, so it is important to know the facts before you go.

Tulamben and Pemuteran have good easy conditions for learning to dive or doing your advanced course. These are probably the best places on the main island of Bali. Inexperienced scuba divers often are surprised and upset by conditions off the east coast where the swell and current can be upsetting.

Where are the best macro sites?

Muck diving is increasing in popularity and it seems that everywhere in Indonesia lays claim to having great macro dive sites.

If you are thinking of a period of sustained critter hunting, then there can be nowhere better place on Earth for a resort stay than the Lembeh Strait in Sulawesi. This is a sheltered stretch of water almost like a lake where the range of bizarre and rare creatures is quite breathtaking. Here is a short list of some of the marine life you will almost certainly encounter: gurnards / flounders / mandarinfish / spectacular nudibranchs / decorator crabs / flamboyant cuttlefish / starry night octopus / coconut octopus / stargazers / frogfish / giant frogfish / hairy frogfish / pygmy seahorses / seahorses / snake eels / spiny devilfish / pegasus.

The diving here is special and if anyone wanted to plan a trip here then they would be in for a real treat. For those who love muck dives or think they might then nothing short of several days in Lembeh will be enough.

If you are in Bali and you are fond of critters then there are 2 places you should check out. One is Secret Bay in Gilimanuk and the other is Seraya's Secrets in Tulamben. Other areas where muck diving is worth a mention or where critters abound include Ambon and Cenderawasih Bay.

Where is the big stuff?

There are various places where you might see big pelagics, whales, sharks and mantas in Indonesia. Cenderawasih Bay promises incredible whale shark encounters (where you can dive with several sharks at the same time) all year round, although most liveaboards visit between April and October. Triton Bay, Saleh Bay in Sumbawa, and Gorontalo in Tomini Bay (Sulawesi) also have reliable whale shark encounters.

The Forgotten Islands and the southern Banda Sea are great for schooling hammerheads, and the region between Alor and Flores is good for whale spotting.

If you prefer land-based resort diving options then the time of year may be important. For example Mola Mola are often seen in Nusa Lembongan around August to October time.

Do you offer any diving in Lombok like the Gili Islands?

The Gilis have suffered badly in recent years and the coral has been extensively damaged. Diving there is not what it was. Many agents have been ceasing to offer the Gilis due to disappointed customers. We at Dive The World don't want our customers to be disappointed so we don't go there. While it is said that the Gilis are a great place to learn, divers with a decent level of experience are not likely to be impressed.

What is a liveaboard diving cruise?

They are boat tours that provide scuba facilities and onboard living accommodations for divers. The boat becomes your home, where you "liveaboard"; and you eat, sleep and dive on it! Liveaboards stay at sea for the duration of the cruise and therefore can explore more remote sites. This type of diving opens up a whole world of top class opportunities that would simply not be available on regular scuba day trip boats in Indonesia, specifically the best sites of Raja Ampat, Triton Bay, Cenderawasih Bay, Komodo/Sumbawa, Banda Sea, Forgotten Islands, Alor, Flores, Halmahera, Sulawesi, Maratua.

Generally you can make 4 dives a day. A typical day onboard an Indonesian liveaboard charter starts at 6-7 am with the first dive, and the last being either a sunset or night dive. You have about 3 hours between dives, at your leisure.

Are there any strong currents?

Caught between 2 great oceans - the Pacific and the Indian - Indonesia has some of the strongest oceanic currents in the world. Most of the liveaboard routes will include dives in strong currents (usually drifts).

If you are not comfortable in currents or want to avoid them, a dive resort would be a better choice, since the dive operators are better placed to offer dives at sites with mild or no current.

Can I dive on my own from my Indonesian liveaboard?

All our trips are on recreational diving boats, and as such follow recreational scuba guidelines. This means you'll be expected to dive with a buddy to a maximum depth of 40m and observe safe time limits. If you prefer diving without a guide, then this is not a problem provided you have all the equipment necessary to conduct dives unassisted i.e. dive computer or timing device, safety balloon, compass and knife.

What kind of food is served onboard?

Please review the "Food, drinks daily routine" information for details of food served on each of the cruises. Generally, the standard of cuisine is good throughout the industry here. If you have particular dietary requirements, do tell us at the time you make your booking, so that we can ensure the operator can meet your request.

Will I get sea sick?

Seasickness can be a problem, particularly when travelling over the larger deep water channels between the islands, such as the Banda Sea, and between Bali and Lombok. However, most of your tour time is spent close to the islands, sheltered away from any open sea swells. If you are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, then do ask us to recommend best times of the year for your preferred destination.

Can a non-diver go on a liveaboard?

Non-divers and snorkellers are welcome on all liveaboard trips throughout Indonesia. Most of the dive sites visited offer good snorkelling too. Do bear in mind though that the cruises are designed for scuba diving, not snorkelling. Prices for non-divers are usually discounted 10%, sometimes more, but please ask for exact details. Although this sounds like quite a small discount, liveaboard operators will tell you that if you are not diving, then you will be on the boat eating all the food! Anyway, you are taking a space that would otherwise be available to a diver.

Dive destinations such as Komodo, Raja Ampat and Alor, have several liveaboard options that provide plenty of activities for non-divers, such as snorkelling, bat migrations, land excursions to see bird of paradise, cultural village visits, whale watching, hiking, viewpoint visits, etc.

Do I have to share a cabin?

As space is the ultimate premium on liveaboards in Bali and Indonesia, single cabins are extremely rare and expensive. Unless we manage to book you a single cabin, you will be expected to share. It may be, if the boat is not full and there are an odd number of passengers, that you can have your own cabin, but this situation cannot be guaranteed. Please review the main "Cabins" information of each boat for more details on the types of cabin available.

Otherwise, the only way to guarantee a cabin for yourself is to pay for 2 beds. You should expect to pay a single supplement, ranging from 25% to 100% (with 60% being about average) of the published price.

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General FAQs

What about the passport and visa requirements?

1. Visa Policy:
* Visa-Free Entry (30 days, non-extendable): Available to citizens of 92 countries, including ASEAN nations, the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and others.
* Visa on Arrival (VOA) (30 days, extendable once): For citizens of 97 countries (similar to visa-free list plus India, South Africa, etc.). Fee: ~IDR 500,000 (~USD 35).
* e-Visa (B211A Tourist Visa): Required for nationalities not eligible for VOA/Visa-free entry. Apply online before travel.

2. General Requirements:
- Passport: Valid for 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages.
- Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of departure required.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking or sponsor letter.
- Customs Declaration: Complete e-CD (Electronic Customs Declaration) online before arrival (link).

3. Health Requirements: Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if arriving from an endemic country.

4. Additional Notes:
- Visa Extensions: VOA can be extended once (30 more days) at local immigration offices.
- Overstaying: Fines of IDR 1 million/day (max IDR 25 million).
- Restricted Areas: Special permits needed for Papua, Aceh, and certain islands.

5. Official Source: Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration

What are the top things to do in Indonesia?

As the world's largest archipelago, Indonesia spans nearly 5,000 km from Sumatra to Papua and 1,800 km from Kalimantan to Roti Island - a scale comparable to the distance between the UK and Iran. This vast nation offers endless opportunities for exploration, from ancient temples and vibrant cities to breathtaking national parks and unique wildlife encounters.

Culture enthusiasts will find Yogyakarta a must-visit destination, home to the magnificent Borobudur Temple and the Hindu complex of Prambanan, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bali, known for its spiritual heritage, features the iconic Besakih Temple perched on Mount Agung, alongside opportunities for surfing, traditional dance performances, and cycling through lush rice terraces.

Jakarta, the bustling capital, showcases Indonesia's rich heritage through attractions like the National Museum, National Gallery, and Pasar Baru market. The sprawling Taman Mini Indonesia Indah offers a fascinating overview of the country's diverse cultures, with pavilions representing each of its 27 provinces.

For those drawn to unique cultural experiences, Tana Toraja in Sulawesi presents extraordinary funeral traditions, including cave burials and hanging graves. Nature lovers can explore Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, a UNESCO-listed site rejuvenated by Krakatau's eruption, or Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan, famous for its orangutan rehabilitation centres.

No visit to Indonesia would be complete without encountering the legendary Komodo dragons, found exclusively on Komodo and Rinca islands. Whether you're trekking through Tangkoko National Park to spot tarsiers and hornbills, rafting Bali's rivers, or climbing Mount Batur at sunrise, Indonesia promises unforgettable adventures.

With such incredible diversity, many travellers return repeatedly to experience more of this remarkable country. For additional inspiration on activities beyond diving, visit Indonesia Travel, the official tourism website.

Do people speak English there?

English is very widely spoken particularly in the tourist destinations and you can enjoy a great holiday here without knowing a word of the local language. Although English and Bahasa Indonesian are both spoken, Bali has its own language and quirks, e.g. all males seem to be called the Balinese equivalent of 1, 2, 3 or 4 depending whether they are the first born etc. Bahasa Indonesian, spoken throughout the country, is written in the Romanic alphabet and is often very easy to translate to English if you simply pronounce what you see. For example: 'Teksi Kaunter' is where you can arrange your cab.

Do you have any insights on best tourist behaviour while travelling in Indonesia?

1. What should I know about local customs?
Indonesians are generally tolerant of cultural differences, but being mindful of local etiquette will help you make a positive impression. Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean. When greeting someone, shake hands with your right hand. Avoid touching people’s heads, as the head is seen as sacred. Instead of pointing with your finger, gesture with your palm facing downward. Placing your hands on your hips while speaking can be seen as aggressive, so keep your posture relaxed.

When dining with locals, wait for your host to invite you to start eating, and avoid refusing drinks, as it may be considered impolite. While Indonesians are understanding of tourists’ mistakes, following these customs shows respect.

2. What is the appropriate clothing to wear in Indonesia?
Due to the hot and humid climate, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing is ideal. In tourist areas and nightlife spots, casual wear like shorts and dresses is acceptable, but avoid going topless or sunbathing nude, as it is offensive outside designated areas. When visiting temples or mosques, dress modestly - cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering.

3. How can I stay safe from theft and scams?
While most Indonesians are honest and welcoming, tourist areas can attract pickpockets. Keep your valuables secure, avoid leaving belongings unattended, and stay aware of your surroundings. Using a money belt or hidden pouch for passports and cash is a good precaution.

4. What should I do if I encounter police or officials?
Corruption exists among some officials, but most travellers won’t have issues unless involved in a traffic violation. If stopped, remain calm and respectful - aggression will worsen the situation. You may be asked for an on-the-spot fine (which often goes into the officer’s pocket). While you can refuse and insist on official procedures, the amounts are usually small, and paying may save time.

5. Are there any other cultural tips I should know?
• Temples and religious sites: Follow local customs, such as wearing a sarong if required.
• Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
• Public displays of affection: Keep them minimal, as excessive PDA is frowned upon.

What suggestions do you have for visiting Bali?

Sightseeing & Activities

From the "happening" Kuta suburb you can easily go sailing, rafting, quad biking, canyoning, fishing, scuba diving or simply sightseeing around Bali and still be back at your resort in time for happy hour. Kuta is also the best place to learn surfing, and there are more advanced breaks for experienced surfers at Suluban Beach, to the south, Padang Padang, Bingin and Balangan.

There's a water sport day trip facility suitable for adults and families alike at Lembongan Island. Here, you'll find water slides in the sea, windsurfing, banana boats, sailing, diving trips at Nusa Penida and afternoon beach BBQ buffets - all just a high speed catamaran ride away from Benoa. Lembongan offers the kind of laid-back water's edge restaurants and accommodation that can be difficult to find in the more built up beaches of the main island. You can also watch the locals harvesting seaweed and the children flying their huge, ornate kites. There's also a water park at Tuban - Waterbom Park.

However, if you want to discover what the real Bali is all about, we'd encourage you to get away from the tourist hotspots and take a tour around the scenic mountains to the north and central. Take in the stunning vistas of rice terraces and coconut palm stands at Ayung River or Tegalalang Valley.

Visit the settlement of Bayung Gede, an intact pre-Javanese village, and course the caldera rim road of the volcanic mountain, Gunung Batur. Here's the magical sight of the scenic Danau Batur crater lake housing Pura Batur, Bali's second most important temple. Make sure you are appropriately dressed to enter a temple though, with long trousers or skirt, sleeved top, and temple sash. Further north you'll find Ulun Danu, a stunning Buddhist temple standing high up on Lake Bratan.

Most of Bali's considerable artistic prowess and energy is exercised on the sculpting of god effigies, palatial pavilions, pagodas and doors, and paintings of ceremonial paraphernalia. Its greatest art form is its classical architecture, characterised by temples with graceful roofs and narrow gates. Colourful processions mark most days, with their attendant bands, costumed gods and towering offerings, moving between one temple and another.

In the foothills of Mount Agung is Pura Besakih, the mother temple. This complex dates from pre-historic times and has been the state temple since the 16th century. Nearby at Kamasan you can watch painters working at the ancient craft of cloth puppet making.

Art connoisseurs will love the village of Ubud, Bali's centre of cultural tourism. Here, there's Puri Lukisan Museum, featuring excellent work by all Balinese schools of art, and Neka Museum which features collections of more modern paintings and photographs. Here you can relax on your balcony cooled by the breezes that waft over the highland paddy terraces and watch the farmers bend and stoop in coolie hats as they tend their crops. Nearby is Sangeh Monkey Forest, a nutmeg forest and home to Hanuman,the monkey-god.

To the far south on Badung Peninsula, stands the sublime cliff-top temple monument of Pura Ulawatu, carved from coral lime stone in the 16th century. To the west of Kuta stands Tanah Lot temple, standing on an offshore rock. Many tourists come here to watch the sunset.
For more detailed information take a look at our article: Things to Do in Bali.

The Beaches

Kuta, with the adjacent Legian, Seminyak and Tuban, is by far Bali's busiest beach resort area. Shops, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs are all in abundance here and the beach itself is the best in the area with great surfing. Being the hub of tourism, you can join day trips and sightseeing tours to anywhere on the island from Kuta. So if you're looking for a lively night out with your new found dive buddies this is the place to be with many of the bars having live music, special drink promotions and organised pub crawls.

Sanur is an upmarket alternative to the Kuta area of the island with a great beach and plenty of water sports - windsurfing, snorkelling, parasailing etc. all readily available. The nightlife is quiet in comparison to Kuta and there are plenty of good quality, reasonably priced eateries as well as some excellent craft, clothing, art and antique shops making this an attractive option for those wanting a more peaceful type of vacation.

Tulamben is a sleepy village on the north east coast, beautifully set with the stunning backdrop of Mount Agung volcano, and famed for the Liberty Wreck site. Scuba diving packages and relaxation here are the principal draw cards, or if you feel like burning some calories, you can climb Gunung Agung (3,104m) or the smaller Mt. Seraya (1,174m).
Beyond that, there are many places of local interest such as Bali's highest waterfall in the nearby town of Les. For something unusual you can head to Tejakula, a local town famed for its horse bath which now acts (slightly disturbingly) as the towns public bath. More hygienic, but slightly further afield, is the spring baths water palace of Amlapura, Tirta Gangga in the east of Bali. Then there's river rafting, a luxurious golf course (set inside a volcanic crater!), mountain tours, traditional markets and cookery classes.

Dining & Nightlife

Wherever you are on the island there are plenty of restaurants offering good quality, reasonably priced food. In Kuta there are all the usual restaurant types you'd expect in any popular tourist place, such as Italian, seafood, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, Asian, local Indonesian, as well as western fastfood joints.

To sample real, traditional Balinese food you'll have to sample the cuisine cooked at home by the people of the island or try a dish from one of the many street side food stalls called 'warungs'. This mainly consists of rice with small portions of vegetables, fish and meat and is generally very spicy ("Sambal").

Kuta is the centre for partying in Bali, with lots of drinking, music, and late nights Jalan Legian has many bars, clubs and discos, all within stumbling distance. There are several live music joints, including jazz, and there's always an evening Balinese dance show or two to attend.

Stay anywhere else on the island outside of the Kuta and Sanur resort areas and you could be forgiven for thinking it was a different island as the nightlife is far more sedate and peaceful elsewhere.

Shopping

Shopping in Kuta and Sanur is vast and varied from markets and shopping centres, to roadside shops filled with local crafts, art, antiques, clothes and copy rip-offs. Kuta Square is by far the most sophisticated shopping experience on the island, with many designer labels and products available.

The traditional Denpasar Kumbasari Market is the place to go for fruit and vegetables, as well as basketwork, sarongs, and mats. Please be aware that it is illegal to take any object older than 100 years out of Indonesia without proper documentation - so be wary on "Grab a Granny" nights!

Transportation

Public transport here is inexpensive and regular. Most public transport is provided by bemo, or minibus, and involves a connection at one of the terminals in Denpasar. This can make any journey time consuming and inconvenient. Add to this the tendency of bemo drivers to overcharge tourists, and you've got a good reason to look for alternative means of transport.

There are many shuttle bus services operating between the major tourists destinations. These you can book at any travel desk, and they'll even collect you from your hotel. Beware: Indonesians are not renowned for their driving skills and most seem to think that they are on time trial for Ferrari Formula One! Alternatively, you can hire a taxi. These are still relatively cheap as they are subject to fixed price control with meters. Don't get in a taxi with a broken meter. If you are prepared to get out of the vehicle, you'll often find that the meter has suddenly fixed itself!

A final option is to rent your own vehicle. For this you'll need an international driving license, a copy of the vehicle registration papers, and thick skin - firstly to deal with any police trying to extort fines from you, and secondly to turn a blind eye to the diabolically low and dangerous driving standards of the locals.

How about tourist tips for Lembongan?

Sightseeing & Activities

While Bali has an unlimited number of sights to see and things to do, Lembongan is a much more low-key destination. That is not to say you cannot fill your non-diving days with lots of fun activities, although they tend to be natural wonders rather than shopping and temples.

You can visit the Devil's Tears, where big waves crash dramatically against the rocky shelf of shoreline, making for inspiring photographs. Enjoy the sights of Jungut Batu beach and watch the locals busily harvesting seaweed from the shallows as happy little children run around flying their kites. Motorbikes are available for hire, and you can tour the island, most notably the mangrove forests, or snorkel or kayak through them and enjoy the quiet natural surroundings. There are also some good surfing sites, and indeed many tourists come here to surf rather than to scuba dive.

Visit our Bali tourist activities page for a more comprehensive list of fun tourist activities.

Dining & Nightlife

Most tourists dine in their own resort when staying in Lembongan since there is no main street lined with restaurants. It simply is not that kind of place. However, if you are keen to explore other dining options, you can stroll from one small resort to the next and drop in to order from their menu. Most resorts are welcoming to drop-in diners. You will encounter a range of international fare, with an emphasis on seafood, as well as a number of tasty Indonesian specialities.

Shopping

Beyond the occasional simple 'warung' selling sundries or a tourist stall selling simple souvenirs, you will not find much in the way of shopping options on Nusa Lembongan. It is part of the laid-back charm of the island that it is free of retail outlets.

Transportation

Ferries transport you to the island from Sanur and, once you are on the island, motorbikes are a good option for getting around if you want to cover any distance. Most guests stroll around the shoreline walkways or arrange boat transport from their resort.

Do you have any visitor tips for Manado?

Sightseeing & Activities

* Cultural & Historical Attractions:

• Manado Provincial Museum:
- Displays traditional costumes, ceramics (China/Japan/Europe), and weaponry.
- Features the bendi (horse-drawn cart) still used locally.

• Ban Hin Kiong Temple:
- 19th-century Buddhist temple (oldest in eastern Indonesia).
- Located on Jalan Panjaitan in Manado’s city centre.

• Chinese Architecture: Traditional shops and temples in the markets area.

* Nature & Wildlife:

• Tangkoko National Park:
- Spot the endemic tarsier (12 cm primate) and diverse Sulawesi wildlife.
- Close to Lembeh Strait for combined diving trips.

• Bukit Kasih ("Mountain of Love"):
- Spiritual site with Catholic/Protestant churches, mosque, Buddhist and Hindu temples.
- Offers panoramic views and hiking trails.

• Volcanic Landscapes: Tours to nearby peaks and natural hot springs.

* Beaches & Diving:

• Lembeh Strait: World-famous "muck diving" for rare marine critters.
• Bunaken Island: Pristine coral reefs (short boat ride from Manado).
• Resort areas: Black volcanic sand beaches near dive resorts.

* Practical Notes:

• Manado’s city beaches are not tourist-focused; better options are at resorts or islands.
• Combine nature tours (Tangkoko), diving, and cultural visits for a balanced itinerary.

Additionally, there are a number of sightseeing options available in other parts of the island. Here's a list of things to do in Sulawesi.

Dining & Nightlife

* What are the best local dishes to try in Manado?
Manado is famous for its spicy Minahasan cuisine. Must-try dishes include:
- Ikan Tude – A fiery traditional fish dish that packs a punch.
- Seafood stalls along the waterfront offering fresh catches.
- Adventurous eaters can sample unusual meats like bat, dog, or rat (sold in local markets).

* Any tips for dining out in Manado?
- Seafood restaurants along the waterfront are a must.
- Be prepared for extremely spicy food - ask for milder versions if needed.
- If you're not into exotic meats, stick to fish, chicken, or pork dishes.

* Where can I find nightlife or entertainment in Manado?
- Karaoke bars are popular among locals for a fun night out.
- Local drinking spots offer a casual way to unwind.
- For a livelier experience, ask resort staff for recommendations - they know the best hidden spots!

Shopping

* Is Manado a shopping destination?
Yes! You’ll find:
- Affordable brand-name clothing (Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren).
- Local handicrafts (great for souvenirs).
- Brand-name eyewear (contact lenses, frames) at surprisingly good prices.

* What unique souvenirs can I buy in Manado? - Minahasan wood carvings (featuring tribal designs). - Traditional weavings and handicrafts. - Tribal penis gourds (a quirky, culturally significant souvenir—handle with care!).

Transportation

* How do I get around Manado?
- Mikrolets (small minibuses) - re budget-friendly but loud (some blast music).
- Taxis are safer and more comfortable. Always negotiate or use the meter.
- Private drivers – Best for day trips outside the city.

Cultural Tips

• Respect local customs - some foods (like dog meat) are traditional but controversial.
• Bargain politely in markets.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas.

How about some tips for visiting West Papua?

New Guinea offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness peoples only recently emerging from the Stone Age with traditions of cannibalism, which some suspect may even still be practiced in the remotest areas today. Besides the obvious attraction of being eaten alive, Indonesian Papua has plenty of interesting things to do and see for those vacationers that manage to survive the headhunters' cooking pots.

West Papua, occupying the western half of New Guinea (the world's second largest island), represents one of Indonesia's most biodiverse and culturally fascinating regions. Comprising 22% of Indonesia's total land area, this vast territory contains an astonishing variety of ecosystems - from coastal mangroves and lowland rainforests to alpine meadows and glacier-capped mountains exceeding 4,800 metres.

The region rewards visitors with unparalleled natural wonders and meaningful cultural exchanges, while requiring sensitivity to local customs and environmental conservation efforts.

Sightseeing & Activities

* Unique Wildlife Encounters:
The region is a living laboratory of evolution, home to:
- Over 1,500 bird species including spectacular birds of paradise and the flightless cassowary - Extraordinary mammals like tree kangaroos and egg-laying echidnas - The world's largest butterflies and some of its most diverse coral reefs - Ancient plant species dating back to Gondwanaland, and pitcher plants

* Cultural Richness:
West Papua's indigenous cultures maintain strong connections to their heritage:
- The Dani people of Baliem Valley practice traditional agriculture and maintain their distinctive way of life.
- The Asmat people of the southern coast are renowned woodcarvers with complex spiritual traditions.
- Many highland tribes continue to live in remote villages largely untouched by modernity.

* Key Destinations:
- Raja Ampat Islands - Accessible via Sorong, this archipelago offers the world's richest marine biodiversity.
- Baliem Valley - Trek through stunning highland scenery and visit traditional Dani villages.
- Biak Island - WWII historical sites combined with beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
- Jayapura Area - Explore Yotefa Bay's sunken WWII relics and nearby Sentani Lake.

Dining & Nightlife

Most of the larger conurbations such as Sorong, Biak, Jayapura and Manokwari do have a decent selection of restaurants dotted around town at very reasonable prices. Nightlife is restrictive unless you enjoy the company of 'hostesses' from Manado.

Shopping

Papua is not a "shop-'til-you-drop" kind of place, with big shopping malls. Purchasing options are quite minimal and restricted to souvenir penis gourds, bows and arrows and stone axes, though you may have difficulty getting these through Customs in your hand luggage.

Transportation

Most places in Papua Province do not have road access so the only option are the regular internal flight services. In the towns there are minibus taxis, which you can join or hire as a private charter. The Raja Ampat dive resort options advertised on our website are on very small and isolated islands where the transport is by boat.

Responsible Travel Tips

• Obtain proper permits for restricted areas
• Hire local guides to support communities
• Respect cultural traditions and photography restrictions
• Pack for variable mountain and tropical climates

What about tipping and bargaining?

Tipping is not a standard practice in Indonesia, but it is appreciated when someone provides exceptional service or goes out of their way to assist you. While not obligatory, leaving a small tip as a gesture of gratitude is always welcome. For liveaboard diving trips, if your experience meets or exceeds expectations, you may consider tipping up to 10% of the trip cost, though any amount is appreciated.

Bargaining is a common and expected practice in markets, street stalls, and independent shops, but fixed prices are the norm in chain stores, restaurants, hotels, and for services like transport and diving. To bargain effectively, it helps to have a rough idea of the fair price—you can ask multiple vendors to compare. Sellers often start with high prices, and negotiations can sometimes bring the cost down to less than half the initial asking price. The key is to remain friendly, avoid showing too much eagerness, and be willing to walk away if the price isn’t right. Frequently, the seller will call you back with a better offer.

By approaching bargaining as a lighthearted exchange rather than a confrontation, you can enjoy the process while securing fair deals.

Is malaria a problem?

Bali is generally free of malaria. Outbreaks occur occasionally in rainy season in the far north west. Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi and Raja Ampat, West Papua are malarial areas, and if you spend time in the rural areas here, you will need to consider anti-malarial medication. Please consult your doctor before travelling, however, it is highly unlikely you will contract malaria if you are visiting these areas only by liveaboard boat or staying in a dive resort in one of our recommended areas.

How can I stay in touch?

Internet access is widely available in Indonesia's major cities and tourist areas, with internet cafes being a popular option, though connection speeds can be slow. While most dive resorts offer free Wi-Fi, liveaboards often lack internet service due to their remote locations although recently more boats have installed satellite internet for guest use.

For making calls, Kantor Telkom, the government-run telecommunications company, has offices in most towns and cities, typically open 24 hours. These offices provide the cheapest rates for international and long-distance calls. To dial internationally from Indonesia, use 001 followed by the country code, area code, and phone number. Indonesia's country code is +62.

Post offices operate Monday to Friday from 8 am to 3 pm and on Saturdays until 1 pm, with extended hours at main branches in larger cities. However, Indonesia's postal service is unreliable, so important mail should be sent via Express Mail Service (EMS), which is faster and more secure but comes at a higher cost.

What are the health risks of travelling in Indonesia?

Visitors should be aware of common but preventable health risks. Contaminated food, water, and ice can cause stomach illnesses, including diarrohea, dehydration, and hepatitis A or E. To minimise risk, drink only bottled water and avoid consuming uncooked or improperly handled food. Fungal infections are also prevalent in the tropical climate, so wearing loose clothing, maintaining good hygiene, and thoroughly drying yourself after swimming or showering can help prevent skin issues.

Malaria is present in many parts of Indonesia, though some regions, such as Bali, are considered largely malaria-free. While mosquitoes are less of a concern at sea, travellers should still take precautions, such as using insect repellent and, if necessary, antimalarial medication in the worst-affected regions. It is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare provider at least six weeks before departure to discuss necessary vaccinations and preventive measures.

What electricity is supplied?

Electricity is 220v / 50 Hz AC. Sockets accommodate 2 round prongs, the same as in most European countries. It's advisable to bring your own plug adaptor kit if required. Power is usually reliable but there are occasional blackouts.

Which time zones apply?

There are 3 time zones in Indonesia - +7 UTC (+12 hrs EST) for Java, Sumatra and west and central Kalimantan, +8 UTC (+13 hrs EST) for Bali, Sulawesi, Nusa Tenggara and south and east Kalimantan, and +9 UTC (+14 hrs EST) for Maluku and Indonesian Papua.

Is it safe to travel in Indonesia?

While we are, of course, advocates for diving in Indonesia, our recommendations are never reckless. We consider it a safe destination for qualified divers, who are trained to assess situations calmly and rationally.

Like any vast, developing nation, Indonesia has its complexities and areas best avoided, such as Aceh Province or central Jakarta at night. However, the popular diving regions we promote are far removed from these spots.

The country's past incidents, which made headlines precisely because they were so rare, have led to significantly enhanced security in tourist areas. In our extensive experience, and that of our customers, the overwhelming reality in Indonesia's resorts is one of warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness. While government warnings should be read, they shouldn't prevent you from experiencing a country that, for aware travellers, poses no greater risk than many major world cities.

Can you suggest accommodation options for Indonesia?

Our affiliated hotel agents hotelscombined.com have a wide variety of accommodations throughout Indonesia, particularly in Bali and Jakarta. Browse their website choices, use their live chat to ask your questions, and simply use your credit card to make your reservation.

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From top-of-the range international beach resorts to budget guesthouses, there's something to suit everyone's taste and pocket. And you can be sure that whatever option you go for, it will be backed up with their 'Low Price Guarantee' so you will always get top-dollar value for money.

Click to view product. Special discounted trips highlighted in yellow

Amira

From USD 368 per day

Customer rating: Excellent!

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