[xyz-ips snippet="header"]
Highlights
Sulawesi is one of Indonesia’s least explored regions, offering fantastic diving, rich culture, and untouched nature. With remote islands, dramatic coastlines, and diverse ecosystems, it’s perfect for travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path. From volcanic landscapes in the north to hidden beaches in the Banggai Islands, Sulawesi remains wild and authentic.
Lembeh Strait is a paradise for macro lovers, home to some of the world’s rarest critters. Nearby, Bunaken and Bangka boast thriving reefs, steep walls, and encounters with turtles and reef sharks. Further south, the remote waters around Pulau Dua in Central Sulawesi offer dramatic drop-offs, pelagic encounters, and pristine reefs rarely visited by divers.
Beyond diving, Sulawesi’s culture is just as fascinating. The Toraja Highlands are known for their dramatic funeral rituals, cliffside graves, and traditional tongkonan houses. Along the coasts, the Bajau sea nomads have lived for centuries in harmony with the ocean, maintaining their unique way of life.
For those who love untouched places, the Banggai Islands are a true escape. With traditional fishing villages, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches, they offer a rare glimpse of Indonesia far from the crowds. The region’s isolation has preserved both its natural beauty and its rich local traditions.
Sulawesi is a destination for true explorers. Whether diving with rare marine species, trekking through lush highlands, or discovering remote islands, it offers experiences unlike anywhere else in Indonesia.
Reefs, dropoffs and muck diving
All year round
Begginner to Advanced
5 – 40+ m
26 – 29 ºC
5 – 30 m
The main gateway to Sulawesi is Makassar (UPG), with international flights from Singapore and Malaysia and domestic connections from Jakarta and Bali.
For diving in North Sulawesi, you can fly directly to Manado (MDC), which has flights from Jakarta, Bali, and Makassar, as well as international connections from Singapore. Bunaken resorts are about an hour from Manado airport, while reaching Bangka or Lembeh takes 2 to 3 hours, including a car and boat transfer, usually arranged by the resorts.
To reach Central Sulawesi, including Pulau Dua or the Banggai Islands, fly to Luwuk (LUW) via Makassar, then continue by car or boat. Remote areas often require domestic flights, ferries, or private boats. Traveling here can take time, but it’s well worth the effort.
Unlike other parts of Indonesia, liveaboards are not the main way to dive in Sulawesi. Most areas are best explored from land-based resorts, offering easy access to dive sites and comfortable stays.
Many divers combine different areas since transfers are short. A common trip in North Sulawesi includes Bunaken and Bangka, or even adding Lembeh. Resorts usually arrange seamless transfers.
For remote spots like Pulau Dua, diving is only available through a dedicated dive resort. While it takes more effort to reach, the reefs are pristine and uncrowded.
Liveaboards occasionally operate on limited itineraries, but for flexibility and variety, resort-based diving is the best option.
English 
Español 
