Bunaken National Park is an underwater paradise in Manado, offering breathtaking coral reefs and spectacular views for nature lovers and divers alike.
Located in North Sulawesi, Bunaken National Park is one of the world’s top underwater tourism destinations.
Situated within the Coral Triangle—a geographic area spanning the waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, and Timor Leste—Bunaken boasts extraordinary marine biodiversity.
It is a magnet for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Let’s dive deeper into the beauty, history, and attractions of this national park.
The History of Bunaken National Park
Bunaken National Park was designated as a national park on October 15, 1991, through Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry decree No. 730/Kpts-II/1991. Covering an area of 890.65 square kilometers, 97% of the park is marine habitat, with the remaining 3% being land.
The land portion includes five islands: Bunaken Island, Manado Tua Island, Mantehage Island, Naen Island, and Siladen Island.
The dormant Manado Tua volcano is also part of the park, adding to its unique allure. In 2005, Bunaken was proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional biodiversity. Although it officially became a national park in 1991, Bunaken’s underwater beauty has attracted divers since 1975.
Biodiversity in Bunaken National Park
As part of the Coral Triangle, Bunaken is home to over 390 coral species and thousands of marine life species. Unique highlights include:
- Fish and Mollusks: Over 2,000 species, including butterflyfish, rays, and barracuda.
- Marine Mammals: Dolphins, dugongs, and whales are frequently spotted.
- Ancient Coelacanth Fish: Found in Manado Bay, this “living fossil” is a highlight of Bunaken’s marine life.
- Terrestrial Ecosystem: Features flora such as mangroves, sago, palms, and coconuts, enhancing the park’s ecological diversity.
Additionally, Bunaken’s marine ecosystem includes 28 mangrove species, nine species of seagrass, and various zooplankton species crucial to the marine food chain.
Top Attractions in Bunaken National Park
1. Stunning Coral Reefs
With hundreds of hard and soft coral species, Bunaken is a diver’s paradise. The Underwater Great Walls or Hanging Walls are among the world’s best diving spots, featuring vertical coral cliffs that drop as deep as 1,344 meters.
2. Rare Marine Life
Endangered species like green turtles, dugongs, and the ancient coelacanth fish are major attractions. Visitors may also encounter tarsiers and dolphins swimming freely.
3. Natural Panorama
The white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and mesmerizing sunsets make Bunaken a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
4. Activities for Visitors
- Diving and Snorkeling: With 20 dive sites offering varying depths, the park caters to beginners and professionals alike.
- Culinary Delights: Local residents serve a variety of North Sulawesi dishes, adding a flavorful touch to your visit.
How to Get to Bunaken National Park
The journey to Bunaken National Park starts from Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, located about 16 kilometers from Manado Bay. Here are the transport options:
1. Land Transport
From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi to reach the harbor.
2. Sea Transport
- Speedboat: A quick but more expensive option for travelers.
- Taxi Boat: A budget-friendly alternative for enjoying the sea journey to Bunaken’s islands.
Entrance Fees and Operating Hours
The entrance fees for Bunaken National Park are affordable:
- Domestic Visitors: IDR 5,000/person.
- International Visitors: IDR 150,000/person.
The park is open 24 hours, but some facilities operate only during specific times.
Zoning in Bunaken National Park
To protect its biodiversity and manage human activity, Bunaken National Park is divided into seven zones:
- Core Zone
- Wilderness Zone
- Rehabilitation Zone
- Marine Protected Zone
- Utilization Zone
- Traditional Zone
- Special Zone
These zones help balance conservation efforts, local community needs, and tourism development.
Best Time to Visit Bunaken National Park
Although Bunaken is accessible year-round, the best time to visit is from June to August. During the dry season, underwater visibility improves, allowing visitors to see coral reefs up to 5 meters away.
Unique Features of Bunaken National Park
Beyond its underwater beauty, Bunaken offers a complete travel experience:
- Wildlife Observation: Spot dolphins, green turtles, and tarsiers in their natural habitats.
- Sunset Views: Watching the sunset from the beach is an unforgettable experience.
- Local Cuisine: Dishes like cakalang fufu (smoked tuna) and tinutuan (Manado-style porridge) add a delicious twist to your journey.
Conclusion
Bunaken National Park is a destination that offers extraordinary underwater beauty, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable experiences.
With easy access, affordable entrance fees, and a variety of natural and cultural attractions, Wakatobi is a top choice for marine tourism enthusiasts.
Make time to visit this underwater paradise and experience the unparalleled beauty of North Sulawesi!
