Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The best time to visit North Sulawesi is between June and September. This is the height of the dry season, with less rain (it might rain occasionally but highly localized and never long) and more sunshine (so don’t forget your sunblock). 

As a tourist traveling to Indonesia, you will need:

• a valid passport,
• a visa,
• a return (or onward) ticket,
• and an electronic customs declaration.

Please refer to the official websites for the most current information:

• Visa information: Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi
• Customs declaration: Indonesian Customs Declaration (e-CD)

For most travelers there are no mandatory vaccinations required for travel to Indonesia (except for Yellow Fever if you are traveling to Indonesia from a country where the disease is endemic). Some vaccinations might be recommended for you though. Your doctor can provide personalized advice for vaccinations based on your itinerary and individual health condition.

Although the risk of getting infected with dengue fever or malaria is low, it is important to take precautions. Use insect repellent containing DEET, especially in the early morning and around dusk, and wear clothing with long sleeves during those times. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your itinerary and individual health condition.

Electronic payments are rapidly gaining traction, but cash payments are still the most accepted. 

• Exchanging currency: You can exchange foreign currencies at banks and authorized money changers. 
• ATMs: ATMs are readily available in major cities like Manado and Tomohon.
• • Typically, you can withdraw between 1,5 and 3 million rupiah, with a daily maximum of 10 million.
  • Travel advise: Be advised that ATMs are not available everywhere, so make sure you have sufficient cash funds with you when traveling to tourism destinations such as Tangkoko and Bunaken.
• Credit cards: Credit cards can be used for online purchases and some stores and bigger hotels accept credit cards. 

Yes, but you will need a registered SIM card or use an e-SIM. You can buy a registered SIM card, which is valid for 60 days, at the counter in the arrival lounge at the airport. You can top up your card with call and Internet credit at local phone stores, and minimarkets. 

Most international visitors arrive with international flights from Singapore and domestic flights from Jakarta and Bali. Overland travelers coming from Gorontalo typically take the public bus, a share ride taxi, or private car.

In the tourist areas and among young people you will find people who will speak English. Many people will comprehend English but are shy to speak it. But even if they do not speak English, they will make every effort to greet you with a smile and a heartfelt ‘hello mister’. 

Absolutely! North Sulawesi is safe and suitable for female travelers. Compared to other parts of Indonesia, people here are more emancipated, less conservative and more relaxed in terms of dress and social norms. And locals are welcoming, friendly and helpful towards tourists.

The people of North Sulawesi form a highly diverse and tolerant society, with groups with diverse cultural and religious backgrounds living together peacefully under the slogan ‘we are all family’. People here realize that not everyone can be aware of all sensitivities of their culture or religion, and people generally are not easily offended. The most important thing is to be respectful and polite and if you are unsure just ask.

North-Sulawesi is renowned for its vibrant, flavorful and spicy cuisine with lots of Chinese and European influences. 

• The Manadonese kitchen: The Manadonese kitchen focuses most on seafood, with dishes featuring different kinds of grilled, smoked or baked tuna.
• The Minahasa kitchen: The Minahasa kitchen features more pork and exotic meat dishes such as bats cooked in traditional ways.
• Where to eat: Eating out is a favorite pastime so you will find lots of restaurants, eateries and roadside food stalls. Hygiene standards can vary, particularly at roadside stalls, but cooked and fried foods are usually safe. Just be careful and pick a busy place with lots of locals.
• Dietary needs: While meat dishes are common, there's a growing awareness, and availability of vegetarian, vegan and halal options. 

Tap water is not safe to drink so you must buy bottled water. Rest assured, cold drinks served at cafes and restaurants use factory produced ice (in cubes or rolls) and are safe to drink. Hanging out with friends - known locally as ‘nongki’ - is a favorite pastime. 

Tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory in North Sulawesi. For services like drivers and guides a tip is common. But always at your discretion and depending on your satisfaction with the service. 

It is customary to offer meals and drinks to your guide and driver, especially when they are working with you throughout the day or on longer trips. Providing their meals and drinks is a common practice and is considered a thoughtful gesture.

If you have any questions or need any assistance during your stay in North Sulawesi, do not hesitate to contact us. You can contact Insulinde Tours Manado via our contact form, via e-mail, or directly via WhatsApp.