Siladen Island

Siladen Island, known for its vibrant marine life, awaits the intrepid traveler looking for an unspoiled paradise. It is part of the Bunaken National Marine Park situated in North Sulawesi. The starting point  to get to Siladen is the bustling city of Manado. The journey from Manado to Siladen Island by speedboat  takes about 60 minutes. Upon arriving at Siladen, visitors are greeted with crystal-clear waters that give a teaser of the vibrant underwater ecosystem. Siladen is the definition of an idyllic tropical island with its slow pace of life. With its calm surroundings and quaint setting, life on Siladen is relaxed. It’s a perfect spot for contemplation or simply disconnecting from the digital world.

Nestled in the famed Coral Triangle, Bunaken Island is a haven for those who seek serenity and the richness of marine biodiversity. The island, together with the Bunaken National Marine Park, boasts over 390 species of coral – about 7 times as many as Hawaii, 33 species of butterflyfish, and numerous other marine species. The sprawling marine park covers an area of approximately 89,065 hectares, of which only 3% is terrestrial, with the rest being a fringing reef. The best time to visit Bunaken Island is from April to October when the skies are clear, the water is calmest, and visibility is best. The boat trip to Bunaken Island from Manado takes approximately 45 minutes.

Lembeh Strait is known as a macro-diving paradise. The strait is widely regarded as the best muck-diving site in the world. Lembeh Strait is home to some of the most peculiar creatures in the ocean. Expect to encounter a multitude of species rarely seen elsewhere — from flamboyant cuttlefish, mimic octopuses, and hairy frogfish, to pygmy seahorses and kaleidoscopic nudibranchs — each waiting to reveal its secrets to observant divers. Diving in Lembeh Strait is spectacular at any time of the year; however, the peak season runs from April to December, boasting the calmest waters and optimal visibility.