Minahasa Half day tour from CUNARD Queen Anne ( Bitung Port Manado ), dating back centuries, are carved in intricate shapes, often resembling miniature houses

Highlights

Minahasa Half day tour from CUNARD Queen Anne ( Bitung Port Manado )

Nestled in the highlands of North Sulawesi, Waruga is a fascinating archaeological site that holds the ancient tombs of the Minahasa people. These stone graves, dating back centuries, are carved in intricate shapes, often resembling miniature houses, and are believed to be the resting places of noble families. Each Waruga tomb tells a story of the region's rich cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the unique burial practices of the Minahasa, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Tumatenden Pool in Airmadidi, North Minahasa, is a site steeped in local legend. According to folklore, it is the sacred bathing place of nine heavenly maidens who descended to Earth. The story tells of a young man, Mamanua, who stole the celestial garment of one maiden, preventing her from returning to the heavens. This event led to the creation of the nine fountains, now known as Tumatenden, which are believed to have healing powers.

Itinerary

INCLUDED	Transportation Traditional coffee break at Waruga Entrance fee English speaking guide
NOT INCLUDED	Personal expenses Personal insurance Tipping for guides, rangers & driver

Description

Minahasa Half day tour from CUNARD Queen Anne ( Bitung Port Manado )

On the north coast of the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia lies Bitung, known for its incredibly vibrant, varied and often-bizarre marine life that thrives in its coastal waters. Nature lovers are welcome!

Your guide to Bitung.

From bustling cities to awe-inspiring landscapes, the Indonesian port of Bitung is the gateway to northern Sulawesi’s abundant wonders, including its provincial capital Manado. Fringed by fauna cloaked mountains, Manado is a gastronomic paradise with dining spots turning out aromatic delicacies and beach bars coupling cocktails with salty ocean views. Pick up a souvenir from the seafront arcade, try island-fished tuna (with eye-wateringly hot sambal) and admire the architectural contrasts of colonial Dutch buildings and ancient Buddhist temples. Further afield you’ll encounter the black and white sands of Lembeh Island, the waruga stone graves of Airmadidi Village and the mangrove forests of Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

Exploring.

Wider Bitung is home to a plethora of natural wonders, from bubbling sulphur lakes to volcanoes. Climbing the mouth of Mahawu Crater rewards you with stunning vistas, while a visit to Lake Linow offers the opportunity to observe the colour-changing waters shift from red to green to blue before your eyes. In Manado, you’ll find a diverse and intriguing city rich in temples and churches. Ban Hin Kiong Temple, built in the 19^th century, and Sentrum Church (a symbol of Manado's colonial past) are among the most impressive. Also of interest to visitors is Museum Pinawetengan, which counts the world’s largest working trumpet among its exhibits.

Eating and drinking.

Indonesian cuisine favours seafood, heat and spice. Rice is a staple and coconuts also feature in many forms; from sweet desserts to savoury curries. In both Bitung and Manado you’ll find speciality cafés serving local coffee and a variety of snacks, while Manado additionally boasts sophisticated oceanfront bars. In Bitung, several restaurants can be found on Jalan Samratulangi while Manado’s culinary offer is far-reaching with countless eateries dotted along the coast. Popular native dishes include ayam bakar rica (grilled chicken with hot peppers), cakalang fufu (cured and smoked tuna) and nasi goreng (stir-fried rice topped with a fried egg).

Shopping.

From Karawang embroidery to earthenware pottery, Manado and Bitung are ideal for finding a keepsake from your travels. In Manado, you’ll encounter traditional markets as well as the shopping centres of Manado Town Square and Megamall. The Grand Merciful Building, open 24 hours, also stocks a large selection of souvenirs. In Bitung, several vendors can usually be found in the Harbour Terminal Building. Prices in shops are often flexible unless marked ‘harga pas’ (fixed price) so don’t be afraid to offer less than the quoted price. The morning market, selling fresh fish and produce from the Tomohon highlands, is a spectacle of colours and sounds, and is not to be missed.

Beyond Bitung.

A local ferry from Bitung takes you across the Lembeh Strait to the black and white sand beaches of Lembeh Island, with some very good hikes. Airmadidi Village, in the Minahasa region, is famous for the waruga stone graves dating from the pre-Christian era - many featuring fascinating engravings. The village is also the starting point to reach the peak of Mount Klabat. About 13 miles from Bitung, Tangkoko Nature Reserve offers some of Sulawesi’s loveliest scenery. A number of native birds and mammals can be found here, including Tarsius Tarsier (the world’s second-smallest primate) and the critically endangered Black Crested Macaque monkey.

Nestled in the highlands of North Sulawesi, Waruga is a fascinating archaeological site that holds the ancient tombs of the Minahasa people. These stone graves, dating back centuries, are carved in intricate shapes, often resembling miniature houses, and are believed to be the resting places of noble families. Each Waruga tomb tells a story of the region's rich cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the unique burial practices of the Minahasa, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Tumatenden Pool in Airmadidi, North Minahasa, is a site steeped in local legend. According to folklore, it is the sacred bathing place of nine heavenly maidens who descended to Earth. The story tells of a young man, Mamanua, who stole the celestial garment of one maiden, preventing her from returning to the heavens. This event led to the creation of the nine fountains, now known as Tumatenden, which are believed to have healing powers.