Minahasa Highlands

The Minahasa Highlands are situated above Manado on a plateau 700 m above sea level, with magnificent countryside with cool mountainous air. Its about an hour drive from Manado, and the drive offers some amazing views of Manado City as well as Bunaken Island.

The highlands cover an area of approximately 418,862 Ha, with a population of 733,029 people (1996), and the capital is Tondano, a town close to Lake Tondano.

The word Minahasa means unification of the traditional tribes, and was derived from the word esa or one. The Minahasan people believe the legend that they are descendants of Toar and Lumimuut, and the reminders of this time long ago are the Waruga (stone graves).

Tomohon

The main village in the highlands that everyone aims for is is called Tomohon. It is known as the Flower City, and there are many Flower Markets in the surrounding area.

Two active volcanoes surround Tomohon, Mt.Mahawu (below left) and Mt.Lokon (below right) and they offer some good climbs (not so difficult, 1-2 hours only).

Other highlights of Tomohon include a Chinese Pagoda, and a Traditional Jungle Market known for Minahasan meat such as Rats, Wild Pigs, Snake, Dogs and spices, fruits, vegetables and more.

Around Tomohon & the Minahasa Highlands

Linow Lake - a unique sulfuric crater lake (Colorful lake) with hot gas and bubbles coming out from under the ground.

Other sites include Kawangkoan village that is famous for producing peanuts, and the Japanese caves located alongside the road between Kiawa and Kawangkoan villages that were built by the Japanese during the World War II primarily for storage.

Accommodation – we recommend staying 1 or 2 nights in the highlands to explore the area, and there is a selection of budget/low price options:
Onongs Palace
Highland Resort
Happy Flower Homestay

There is also the more expensive Gardenia Country Inn.