Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Northern Sulawesi, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Northern Sulawesi
- Important essentials for Northern Sulawesi
- Activities for Northern Sulawesi
- Northern Sulawesi in January: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in February: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in March: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in April: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in May: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in June: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in July: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in August: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in September: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in October: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in November: weather and what to pack
- Northern Sulawesi in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia
Based on the climate and weather in Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Northern Sulawesi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia by month
January
If you are traveling to Northern Sulawesi in January, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your belongings remain dry. The best luggage can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
February
If you are traveling to Northern Sulawesi in February, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your belongings stay dry. The most durable suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
If you vacation in Northern Sulawesi during March, you will probably notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A durable rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings stay dry. Even the finest suitcases can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April in Northern Sulawesi can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your stuff don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
Traveling to Northern Sulawesi in May, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your things stay dry. The best suitcases can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
June
June in Northern Sulawesi is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the best luggage can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
July
If you vacation in Northern Sulawesi during July, you will probably find that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
August
August in Northern Sulawesi is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
September is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your things stay dry. The finest suitcases can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
October
If you vacation in Northern Sulawesi during October, you are likely to find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your stuff remain dry. The most durable suitcases can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
November
Traveling to Northern Sulawesi in November, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the best suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
December
December is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your things stay dry. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northern Sulawesi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia
Northern Sulawesi is a region in Indonesia that offers an abundance of culture, history, and natural beauty. This area is home to some of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the country, boasting an array of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, pristine beaches, and excellent diving spots. Without further ado, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Northern Sulawesi.
1. Bunaken National Marine Park
Bunaken National Marine Park is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sulawesi. The park, located in the north of Manado, boasts some of the most breathtaking coral reefs in the world. It is home to more than 390 species of coral, and over 3,000 species of fish live in this crystal-clear ocean. Snorkeling and diving attract visitors from all over the world to explore the beautiful underwater world here.
2. Tomohon Market
Tomohon Market is less of a tourist destination and more of a glimpse into a unique culture that has been practicing for generations. It’s an incredible marketplace known for its unusual meat selection, which includes dogs, rats, and bats. Apart from this, Tomohon has beautiful scenery, and the local people are friendly and welcoming.
3. Lake Tondano
Located about 35 km south of Manado, Lake Tondano is an idyllic place for a day-long adventure. This freshwater lake is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and is often referred to as “the twin lake.” The best way to experience the lake is with a boat ride to explore the serene waterscape.
4. Mount Soputan
Mount Soputan is an 1,800-meter-high volcano located in the north of Sulawesi. It’s an ideal destination for hikers who enjoy a good climb, and it’s surrounded by beautiful, lush forests too. Visitors can take a two-day hike to reach the summit and witness stunning views from the top.
5. Tangkoko Nature Reserve
Tangkoko Nature Reserve is an ecological paradise located in the village of Batu Putih, and just a one-hour drive from Manado. The reserve boasts lush green vegetation, numerous animals, and over 90 unique species of birds that visitors can spot on their trip. The most popular animals to see here are the tarsiers – small primates that are fascinating to watch.
In conclusion, North Sulawesi is a unique region that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s exploring the underwater world of the Bunaken National Marine Park or witnessing the unique culture at the Tomohon Market, visitors are sure to make memories in this beautiful part of Indonesia. It’s a must-visit destination for all adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts.

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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