Experience Travel Group
1-888-577-8452 020 7924 7133
Call

Sulawesi & The Spice Islands

An idea for your holiday

Download Guide Get in Touch
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Borneo
    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • About us
    • Why choose ETG?
    • Our Story
    • Meet the Team
    • Reviews
    • In the Press
    • Travel Blog
    • Our brochure
    • Newsletter Signup
  • How it works
    • Get in touch
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost?
    • Financial protection
    • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
    • Working with in-country partners
    • My Booking
    • Come and see us
  • Immersive Holidays
    • Immersive Family Holidays
    • Immersive Honeymoons
    • Ideas & Inspiration
    • Holidays by Month
    • Family Holidays by Month
    • Download Free Country Guides
  • Sustainability
    • Travel Better
    • Our Counter-Carbon Pledge
    • One bottle at a time
    • Building a Sustainable Future
    • Giving Back
Sulawesi & The Spice Islands
  • Holidays in Indonesia
    • By Island
      • Bali & Beyond Holidays
      • Holidays in Java & Beyond
      • Flores & Komodo
      • Holidays In Sulawesi
      • Borneo & Beyond
    • By Theme
      • Essential Holidays
      • Luxury Holidays
      • Wildlife Holidays
      • Family Holidays
      • Multi-Country Holidays
  • Guide to Indonesia
    • Indonesia Guide
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Indonesia Travel Blog
  • Places in Indonesia
    • Bali
        Overview
      • South Bali
      • East Bali
      • Central Bali & Volcanoes
      • North Bali
      • West Bali
      • Ubud
      • Kuta & Southwest Beaches
      • Bali's Islands
    • Java
        Overview
      • West Java
      • Central Java
      • East Java
      • Jakarta
      • Yogyakarta
      • Borobudur
      • Java Volcanoes
      • Java National Parks
    • Kalimantan
        Overview
      • North & East Kalimantan
      • Central Kalimantan
      • West Kalimantan
    • Komodo & Flores
        Overview
      • Komodo & Rinca
      • Labuan Bajo
      • Manggarai Country
      • Bajawa
      • Ende
      • Kelimutu & Around
      • Maumere
    • Lombok
        Overview
      • West Lombok
      • South Lombok
      • Rinjani & Around
      • Sekotong & The Islands
      • Gili Islands
    • Maluku Islands
        Overview
      • Morotai
      • Halmahera
      • Ternate & Tidore
      • Ambon
      • Seram & Buru
    • Raja Ampat
    • Sulawesi
        Overview
      • South Sulawesi
      • Southeast Sulawesi
      • West Sulawesi & Togean Islands
      • Central Sulawesi
      • North Sulawesi & Offshore
      • Tana Toraja
      • Minahasa Highlands
      • Tangkoko National Park
      • Gorontalo & Bogani Nani Wartabone
    • Sumatra
        Overview
      • North Sumatra
      • West Sumatra
      • Sumatra National Parks
      • Banda Aceh
    • Sumba
        Overview
      • East Sumba
      • West Sumba
      • Sumba Beaches
    • Sumbawa
        Overview
      • West Sumbawa & Moyo Island
      • East Sumbawa
    • Timor
    • Timor-Leste
    • West Papua
Experience Travel Group

Sulawesi & The Spice Islands

  • Info
  • ItineraryDays
  • Hotels
  • ExperiencesTo-Do
  • Price
  • Map

Sulawesi and North Maluku; islands of Indonesia in which unique traditions are still well alive, where wildlife is abundant both on and offshore, and landscapes are luscious and untouched. Their tourist paths are relatively unworn, making for an ideal getaway for those wanting to explore the lesser-known cultural practices, wildlife and landscapes of Indonesia.

This three-week itinerary will see you travelling through Makassar in the south, journeying north through Sulawesi, immersing yourself in traditional village life along the way before relaxing in the highlands of Tomohon. Next, discover the native, intriguing and rare wildlife in Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Head east to North Maluku where, underneath the clear waters, you’ll find a world of pristine coral reefs brimming with abundant marine life. Here at an eco-friendly dive resort, you'll have many opportunities to dive and snorkel through these waters. You'll also have a chance to explore a local village and discover some incredible birdlife. End your holiday in the smaller, contrasting spice island Sultanates of bustling Ternate and peaceful Tidore.

Highlights include:

  • Immerse yourself in Torajan village life and their fascinating traditions by visiting local markets and homes
  • Get up close and personal with the friendly black crested macaques and other wildlife with a park ranger through Tangkoko Nature Reserve
  • Cool off and relax in the picturesque highland region of Tomohon with two days at your leisure
  • Spend several days at an eco-friendly dive resort snorkelling or diving in some of the world’s best coral reefs
  • Explore the contrasting 'Spice Islands' of bustling Ternate and sleepy Tidore

As with all of our suggested itineraries, we can tailor-make your holiday to suit your budget, style and expectations. Find out about our exclusive Journey Planner here. 

DAY 1: DEPART THE UK

Depart the UK on your flight to Makassar in South Sulawesi.

DAYS 2 & 3: MAKASSAR CITY

Upon arrival at Makassar Airport, your expert local guide will transfer you to your hotel where you can spend the evening at your leisure.

The next morning, after a 1.5-hour drive, you will reach Rammang-Rammang village to board a boat for a sail along the river, admiring the breath-taking Karst mountain and limestone cliffs along the way. Enjoy lunch at the Udhin Eco-Lodge before returning to Makassar for a visit to the Paotere Schooner Harbor and a short walking tour of the city’s best landmarks. That evening we’ll recommend one of the superb seafood restaurants for your dinner.

DAY 4: TRANSFER TO TORAJA

After a short flight, you will arrive in Palopo, located in northern Makassar. Travelling with your guide and driver to Toraja, you’ll pass by magnificent tropical rainforests before stopping at several village graveyards. Next, pay a visit to Karuaya, one of the oldest Tongkonan traditional villages, and KeteKesu village, renowned for its woodcarving and unique Tongkonan houses and rice barns.

DAYS 5, 6 & 7: TANA TORAJA

Begin your first full day in Toraja with a glimpse into the local life of the area. After visiting a local market wander through traditional villages, watching daily life go by, before driving to the Lemo village graveyard, famous for its Tau-Tau effigies.

Day six will see you discovering more traditional Torajan ways of life by visiting a family who preserves the Tomasaki Ullunna (the dead body) of their family members within their house. Continue to another Tongkonan traditional village for a unique experience in which a family will cook lunch for you to enjoy under their rice barn.

Depart Toraja on another scenic drive to Palopo, stopping by the Puncak Pass for a spectacular panorama of the dense tropical rainforest. Fly to Manado City where your driver will transport you to your resort in the picturesque highlands of Tomohon.

DAYS 8 & 9: THE HIGHLANDS OF TOMOHON

The highland area of Tomohon features a pleasant climate and is home to lush forests, towering volcanic peaks, beautiful flowers and fresh, delicious produce. You have the next two days to spend at your leisure. Perhaps you may want to pay a visit to the colour changing Lake Linow, bird watch or hike 30 minutes up to Mount Mahawu’s crater edge for panoramic views over the surrounding islands, Bay of Manado and the sulphur crater lake.

DAYS 10, 11 & 12: TANGKOKO NATURE RESERVE

Journey two hours into the fascinating Tangkoko Nature Reserve, passing small villages before reaching your accommodation where you can relax in the afternoon.

With a full day in the reserve, begin your morning with a walk accompanied by a forest ranger. Wander through the lush 9,000 hectares of land, spotting the famous and friendly Black Crested Macaques (indigenous to North Sulawesi), along with couscous bears, hornbills and much other bird species native to the area. After a boat ride through the mangroves, on an evening walk, you’ll have a higher chance at spotting the shy tarsiers as they hunt for the night.

DAYS 13, 14, 15 & 16: WEDA DIVE RESORT  

Fly to from Manado to the island of Ternate this morning where you will transfer to a dock and board a speedboat ride to the mainland. After a three-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the eco-friendly Weda Dive Resort, situated in the heart of the coral triangle on Halmahera Island, it is ideal for keen divers, bird watchers and nature lovers alike.

With four days and three nights at the resort, you won’t be short on activities such as bird watching trips, snorkelling offshore and diving excursions to explore beautiful reefs and abundant marine life. Relax by the pool, or on the beach by day and enjoy fresh, quality food at the restaurant in the evenings.

DAYS 17 & 18: TERNATE ISLAND

After your transfer back to Ternate, you will check in to your accommodation and are free to explore the city, or perhaps you may opt for an afternoon of snorkelling nearby at Sulamadaha beach.

Dominated by the Gamalama volcano, Ternate is a small, round island with a long history as the original ‘spice’ island. On your second day in the region, you’ll begin by visiting the mother of clove trees, ‘CengkehAfo’, known to be 350 years old. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting several forts dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries as your guide explains the history behind each one. End your historical tour at the peculiar Tolire Lake. Set at the foot of Mount Gamalama, without any connection to the sea, it comprises an ecosystem of its own.

DAY 19: TIDORE ISLAND

Board a local fast boat this morning to Tidore island, arriving in less than an hour. After transferring to your privately chartered taxi, you’ll head explore the Fort of Torre with your guide. Later, you’ll have the opportunity to experience local life upon visiting the Gurabunga Village in the slope of Mount Kiematubo, 800 metres above sea level.

DAY 20: FLY HOME

Fly back to Jakarta for your onwards connection homewards bound. 

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000 per adult depending on trip length and time of year as well as the hotels and flights involved. We offer child and seasonal discounts. You can read our ultimate guide to holiday costs in Asia for more in-depth information.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 to create your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

  • International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
  • Accommodation as described
  • Privately guided tours and transfers
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
  • Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
  • 24-hour in-country backup while away
  • Your dedicated travel expert in the UK 

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

Gardenia Country Inn

Gardenia Country Inn , Minahasa, North Sulawesi

Small highland resort with beautiful gardens & incredible views of the volcanic landscape.

Luta Resort

Luta Resort, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi

Simple accommodation overlooking the Saddang River in the centre of Rantepao.

Tangkoko Hill Resort

Tangkoko Hill Resort, Tangkoko National Park, North Sulawesi

Simple, basic accommodation ideal for exploring the adjacent Tangkoko National Park.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

Central Highlands of Sulawesi

Central Highlands of Sulawesi, Minahasa, North Sulawesi

A hidden gem of the island, sparsely populated, offering stunning views of cratered valleys and roaming forests.

Lemo, Londa and Kete Kesu

Lemo, Londa and Kete Kesu, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi

Explore the fascinating remote villages of Lemo, Londa and Kete Kesu with Experience Travel Group.

Makassar City Tour

Makassar City Tour, Makassar, South Sulawesi

As the provincial capital of South Sulawesi, Makassar is a cultural hub and gateway into the region.

Minahasa Highlands

Minahasa Highlands, Minahasa, North Sulawesi

Explore the Minahasa Highlands with Experience Travel Group. Visit old villages, local markets and stunning natural landscapes.

Shopping at a Toraja Market

Shopping at a Toraja Market, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi

Toraja local market is filled with herbs, spices, local produce and all kinds of people.

Tangkoko Nature Reserve

Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Tangkoko National Park, North Sulawesi

A protected rainforest filled with an abundance of free-roaming endemic wildlife.

Ternate Island Day Tour

Ternate Island Day Tour, Ternate, North Maluku

Delve into the history of this spice island by visiting plantations & villages.

Tidore Day Trip

Tidore Day Trip, Tidore, North Maluku

Just a short speedboat ride from Ternate, Tidore is home to a relaxed atmosphere and colourful local life.

Tomohon And Around

Tomohon And Around, Minahasa, North Sulawesi

Cool off in the highlands while exploring local markets, lakes and volcanoes.

Toraja Village Walk And Funeral Ceremony

Toraja Village Walk And Funeral Ceremony, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi

Embark on a light trek to a local Torajan village to witness their funeral traditions, although not for the faint-hearted!

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Sulawesi & The Spice Islands'

More Holiday Suggestions

Bali & South Sulawesi Explorer

Bali & South Sulawesi Explorer

Fly direct from the UK to Indonesia, uncovering the fascinating cultures and breathtaking scenery of both Bali and Sulawesi in two weeks.

Contrasts of South Sulawesi And Bali

Contrasts of South Sulawesi And Bali

Think terrain, temples and tribes! Fascinating traditions, magnificent scenery: a journey of a lifetime.

Java and Sulawesi Adventure

Java and Sulawesi Adventure

Discover Java's incredible scenery and culture, then head to Sulawesi to discover some of the best marine life in the world.


~
Your next adventure
starts with a conversation
~

Every ETG journey is unique. Tell us your loves, your hates, your holiday ambitions, your hopes and fears, and we’ll share a suitcase so full of inspired holiday ideas you’ll need to sit on it to shut it tight.

Not sure what you’re looking for? Let us inspire you...

Get in Touch

Call us 020 7924 7133

ETG - immersive holidays that give back, since 2004.
Don’t just see Asia - feel Asia.

How it works
  • Get in touch
  • Booking with confidence
  • How much does it cost?
  • Financial protection
  • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
  • Working with in-country partners
  • My Booking
  • Come and see us
About Us
  • Why choose ETG?
  • Our Story
  • Meet the Team
  • Reviews
  • Our Promise
  • In the Press
  • Our Offices
  • Jobs
Information
  • Immersive Escapes
  • The Revitalise Collection
  • Our Rating System
  • Exclusive Signature Experiences
  • Your Protection
  • Travel Insurance
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Package Travel Regulations
  • Foreign and Commonwealth (FCO) Travel Advice
Get Social

facebook.com/experiencetravel twitter.com/ExpTrav instagram.com/experiencetravelgroup

  • Visit us on Facebook
  • View @ExpTrav Twitter Feed
  • Visit our Travel Blog
  • Follow our Instagram page
  • Newsletter Signup
  • Book Club

© Experience Travel Group Ltd
Registered in England, Company No. 5071391 | ABTA Member | 9324 ATOL Protected
Site by Livingstone Creative

Website Terms of Use | Cookie Policy | Privacy Policy

Experience Travel Group

020 7924 7133 Get in touch

Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Borneo
    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • Holidays in Indonesia
    • By Island
      • Bali & Beyond Holidays
      • Holidays in Java & Beyond
      • Flores & Komodo
      • Holidays In Sulawesi
      • Borneo & Beyond
    • By Theme
      • Essential Holidays
      • Luxury Holidays
      • Wildlife Holidays
      • Family Holidays
      • Multi-Country Holidays
  • Guide to Indonesia
    • Indonesia Guide
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Indonesia Travel Blog
  • Places in Indonesia
    • Bali
      • South Bali
      • East Bali
      • Central Bali & Volcanoes
      • North Bali
      • West Bali
      • Ubud
      • Kuta & Southwest Beaches
      • Bali's Islands
    • Java
      • West Java
      • Central Java
      • East Java
      • Jakarta
      • Yogyakarta
      • Borobudur
      • Java Volcanoes
      • Java National Parks
    • Kalimantan
      • North & East Kalimantan
      • Central Kalimantan
      • West Kalimantan
    • Komodo & Flores
      • Komodo & Rinca
      • Labuan Bajo
      • Manggarai Country
      • Bajawa
      • Ende
      • Kelimutu & Around
      • Maumere
    • Lombok
      • West Lombok
      • South Lombok
      • Rinjani & Around
      • Sekotong & The Islands
      • Gili Islands
    • Maluku Islands
      • Morotai
      • Halmahera
      • Ternate & Tidore
      • Ambon
      • Seram & Buru
    • Raja Ampat
    • Sulawesi
      • South Sulawesi
      • Southeast Sulawesi
      • West Sulawesi & Togean Islands
      • Central Sulawesi
      • North Sulawesi & Offshore
      • Tana Toraja
      • Minahasa Highlands
      • Tangkoko National Park
      • Gorontalo & Bogani Nani Wartabone
    • Sumatra
      • North Sumatra
      • West Sumatra
      • Sumatra National Parks
      • Banda Aceh
    • Sumba
      • East Sumba
      • West Sumba
      • Sumba Beaches
    • Sumbawa
      • West Sumbawa & Moyo Island
      • East Sumbawa
    • Timor
    • Timor-Leste
    • West Papua
  • About us
    • Why choose ETG?
    • Our Story
    • Meet the Team
    • Reviews
    • In the Press
    • Our Offices
    • Our Brochure
    • Travel Blog
    • Newsletter Signup
  • How it works
    • Get in touch
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost?
    • Financial protection
    • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
    • Working with in-country partners
    • My Booking
    • Come and see us
  • Immersive Holidays
    • Immersive Family Holidays
    • Immersive Honeymoons
    • Ideas & Inspiration
    • Holidays by month
    • Family Holidays by Month
    • Download Free Country Guides
  • Sustainability
    • Travel Better
    • Our Counter-Carbon Pledge
    • One bottle at a time
    • Building a Sustainable Future
    • Giving Back
  • Come and see us
  • My Booking
  • Brochure
  • Travel Blog