Sulawesi, Indonesia
Initiate your planning well in advance, especially for extended trips or high-season travel.
Detailed preparation ensures a well-executed trip.
Verify passport validity for at least 6 months beyond Indonesia departure. Research Indonesian visa requirements for your nationality. Apply for an e-VOA if eligible for streamlined arrival.
Book international flights to Jakarta (CGK), Bali (DPS), or Singapore (SIN) for Manado connection. Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations and preventive medications.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads is an option) covering emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and diving. Book popular dive packages and resorts on Bunaken, especially for high season.
Book domestic flights to Manado (MDC) from your international arrival point. Secure accommodation in Manado city if spending time there.
Plan major day trips (e.g., Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Tomohon highlands) and consider booking tours or private drivers. Arrange for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if driving a car or scooter.
Complete necessary preparations for smooth transit. Confirm all reservations for a stress-free travel experience.
Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings. Reconfirm any airport or boat transfers.
Pack your luggage according to the climate and your planned activities (refer to Section 3: What to Pack & Bring). Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans.
Download all essential travel apps (Google Maps, Gojek/Grab, Google Translate) and download offline maps for Manado and surrounding areas. Arrange any airport transfers in Manado to your hotel or port.
Certain bookings warrant early attention.
Thorough research enhances your travel.
Establish a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage for all booking confirmations, passport, visa, and insurance details. This forms a readily available backup.
Your initial hours in Manado shape your trip. A concise checklist supports efficient arrival procedures.
Have passport, return or onward ticket, and e-VOA or visa details ready. Be polite and patient.
Ensure online completion via Ecd.beacukai.go.id prior to arrival. This streamlines your passage through customs control.
Proceed to baggage claim. Follow signs to customs; if nothing to declare, you proceed directly.
Purchase a local SIM card (Telkomsel recommended) at the airport or an official store in Manado. This provides immediate internet access and aids with navigation.
Use an ATM at the airport or a major bank in the city to withdraw Indonesian Rupiah. Better rates often exist at city banks or money changers.
Locate your pre-arranged transfer, airport taxi stand, or designated ride-sharing pick-up point. Ensure you have the correct address for your accommodation.
Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs.
Better rates are often found at banks or money changers in the city.
Purchase bottled water upon arrival.
Grab snacks or other immediate necessities for comfort.
These initial purchases ease your transition into the local environment.
Note your hotel address and phone number on paper. This prevents issues if your phone battery depletes or digital information becomes inaccessible upon arrival.
Prepare your departure well in advance.
Be aware of specific regulations.
Allocate extra time for departure, notably during peak hours or if your lodging is distant from the airport.
Manado traffic exhibits unpredictability.
