Birding and wildlife watching tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Sonder and Mount Mahawu of Tomohon in North Sulawesi as well as marine tour in Bunaken National Park, culture and nature trips to other parts of Indonesia. For guiding service, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by whatsapp to: +6281332245180 and by email: peace4wp@gmail.com
Tangkoko Nature Reserve is the natural habitat of several species of kingfishers. Some of them are listed below:
Green-backed Kingfisher (Actenoidesmonachus) - This bird usually sits on the understory branches in lowland and lower hill tropical forest. This is a big kingfisher that has got reddish orange bill, and dark green back and rufous belly and chest.
Green-backed Kingfisher in Tangkoko Nature Reserve
Lilac Kingfisher (Citturacyanotis) - This bird has got dark blue mask, rufous tail and brown crown and back. Its tail is brown. The bird is often sitting alone on the understory branch of a tree.The collared fur, below the mask, has got pale purple colour. This kingfisher has got burnt red bill. This bird usually eats lizards, and insects.
Lilac Kingfisher in the forest of Tangkoko
Another interesting species of kingfisher in Tangkoko is Great-billed Kingfisher. This bird likes to sit on the lower or upper branch of a tree near a stream in coastal area of Tangkoko.
Great-billed Kingfisher
Collared Kingfisher - This bird is quite common. We could watch it in Tangkoko and Minahasa highland. The farmland around Sonder is also a good site for finding Collared Kingfisher as well as other birds such as Black-naped Oriole and Japanese White-eye.
Collared Kingfisher
Scaly-breasted Kingfisher also lives in higher elevation forest of Tangkoko. However, it is difficult for visitors to reach it. So, visitors go to Minahasa highland to watch it in Mount Mahawu or Sonder's forest.
Ruddy Kingfisher - This bird has got reddish purple wing and back; and rufous underparts. The bill is long and has got red colour.
Ruddy Kingfisher in Tangkoko forest
One of the main targets for the observation of kingfishers in Tangkoko Nature Reserve is Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyxfallax). This bird looks similar to Ruddy Kingfisher but it has got smaller body with scaled blue crown. Its fur on the side neck below its eye is light purple. The bird has got white throat.
Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher
If you are interested in taking a birdwatching and wildlife watching tour in North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia and want me to organize your trip and guide you, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp through the following button:
There are 2 species of hornbill in Sulawesi and its satellite islands:
Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill
Sulawesi Hornbill or Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill (Rhabdotorrhinusexhartus). It is a small hornbill with a length of around 45 cm (approx. 18 inches). This bird feeds on fruits, and insect. The male bird has got bright yellow face and throat. The female one has got black feather. Female Sulawesi Hornbill lays eggs in a sealed tree hole. Food is supplied by her male partner through the hole.
Knobbed Hornbill (Rhyticeroscassidix) is a big hornbill that lives in lowland and lower montane forest of Sulawesi island. It eats fruits, and insects. The male one has got black feather, white tail and yellow bill and red casque that looks like the red horse hair crest of an ancient Roman soldier.
Knobbed Hornbill
I saw these hornbills in several parts of Sulawesi such as Karaenta, Lore Lindu, Tangkoko and Tambun.
Because I often guide tourists in North Sulawesi, Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Temboan hill is the site where I frequently see these hornbills.
If you are interested in birding in North Sulawesi province of Indonesia, and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing the following button.
Tomohon is a small town in Minahasa highland of the Province of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Tomohon is surrounded by mountains, forest, farmlands, lakes and paddy fields. These are attractive birding sites for visitors who want to see the beauty of nature and watch various species of birds of Sulawesi.
Mount Mahawu is the place for watching birds that live in high elevation forest. Some of the birds which visitors could see include Warbling White-eye, Black-crowned White-eye, Superb Fruit-dove, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Sulawesi Drongo, Red Jungle Fowl, Scaly-breasted Kingfisher, and etc. Mount Mahawu is also a beautiful destination for visitors who want to enjoy sightseeing especially from the edge of its crater.
Scaly-breasted Kingfisher in the forest of Mount Mahawu
Lake Linow is a beautiful site for sightseeing and birdwatching. Birds that could be seen in the lake include White-breasted Waterhen, Javan Pond Heron, Barn Swallow, Sunda Teal, Australasian Swamphen, Barred Rail, Buff-banded Rail, Little Egret, Purple Heron, and etc.
Kayawu Rice Field is another birding site of Tomohon that is good for watching White-breasted Woodswallow, White-browed Crake, Barred Rail, Scaly-breasted Munia, Chestnut Munia, Glossy Swiftlet, White-nest Swiftlet, and Cattle Egret. From Kayawu, we could return to Tomohon town via Woloan villages. Local people there are experts in building knocked-down wooden houses.
Subdistrict Sonder - After exploring birding sites in Tomohon, we could go further to forest, farmland and waterfall in Subdistrict Sonder. The high elevation forest of Mount Lengkoan is the site for watching such birds as Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Black Sunbird, Sulawesi Myzomela, Black-crowned White-eye, Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Sulawesi Pitta, Sulawesi Bush Warbler, White-faced Cuckoo-dove, and etc.
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Another interesting site for birdwatching in Sonder is Tincep village. Its Kengkang waterfall is the site for watching Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Green Imperial Pigeon, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Sulawesi Serpent Eagle, Sulawesi-crested Myna, White-rumped Triller, Black-fruit-dove, Black-naped Oriole and etc. Tincep has got huge rice field area. Visitors could watch Pied Stilt, Buff-banded Rail, Barred Rail, Collared Kingfisher, Javan Pond Heron, Eastern Yellow Wagtail, and etc.
Black-naped Oriole
If you are interested in birding in Tomohon of Minahasa highland and other areas in North Sulawesi, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180.
This is the picture of Yellow-billed Malkoha (Rhamphoccocyxcalyorhynchus) that I took in Tounelet Slope of Sonder town of Minahasa highland. The bird is quite big compared to other birds that usually sit in the branches of trees of the slope.
Yellow-billed Malkoha in Tounelet slope of Minahasa highland
The bird plays very important role in the ecosytem of rainforest and farmland as pest controller.
Yellow-billed Malkoha is an endemic species of Sulawesi island. The bird feeds on insects such as grasshopper, beetle, chockroach; and small vertebrates such as lizards and frogs.
So, it is important for us to protect this bird because it helps farmers to protect their food crops. Farmers in Sonder and other towns of Minahasa grow vegetables such as cabbage, kangkung, long bean, spinach, spring onion and etc. They also grow vanilla, tomatoes and various other fruit plants such as banana, avocado, durian, orange and mango.
Traveling to Sonder and other places in North Sulawesi province of Indonesia
In addition to Yellow-billed Malkoha, birds that we could watch in the forest and farmland of Sonder town include Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Citrine Canary Flycatcher, Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker, Green Imperial Pigeon, Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Collared Kingfisher, Warbling White-eye, Black-crowned White-eye, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Sulawesi Myzomela, and etc.
If you are interested in taking a sightseeing or birdwatching tour in Sonder and other places in Minahasa and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing the following button:
Minahasa highland is a beautiful destination for visitors who are interested in birdwatching. Its mountainous areas are the habitat of a lot of species of birds of Sulawesi island.
Minahasa highland also have got mountains, valleys, lakes, and rice fields which are the natural habitat of various species of birds.
Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
Some of the birds that visitors can watch are listed below:
Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
Snowy-browed Flycatcher
Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker
Gray-sided Flowerpecker
Yellow-sided Flowerpecker
Black-crowned White-eye
Mountain White-eye/ Japanese White-eye
Black Sunbird
Crimson Sunbird
Sahul Sunbird
Scaly-breasted Kingfisher
Collared Kingfisher
Sulawesi Drongo
Hair-crested Drongo
Superb Fruit-dove
Green Imperial Pigeon
Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove
Black-naped Fruit-dove
Zebra Dove
Spotted Dove
Isabelline Bush-hen
White-brested Waterhen
Barred Rail
Buff-banded Rail
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Woodswallow
Whiskered Tern
Dusky Moorhen
White-browed Crake
Lesser Coucal
Little Egret
Cattle Egret
Javan Pond Heron
Pied Stilt
Oriental Reed Warbler
Mountain Tailorbird
Finch-billee Myna
Sulawesi-crested Myna
Sulawesi Myzomela
Sulawesi Pitta
Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
Osprey
Spotted Harrier
Brahminy Kite
Black Kite
Black-naped Oriole
Sooty-headed Bulbul
Pale Blue Monarch
Black-naped Oriole
Yellow-billed Malkoha
Chestnut Munia
Scaly-breasted Munia
Ashy Woodpecker
Pygmy Woodpecker
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Pygmy Hanging Parrot
Sulawesi-masked Owl
Sulawesi Scops Owl
Speckled Boobook
and etc.
Black-naped Oriole
Visitors need at least 4 days/ 3 nights to explore most of the birding sites of Minahasa highland. Recommended sites for birding include Mount Mahawu, Kayawu, Lake Tondano, Rambunan Slope, Mountains Lengkoan, Kengkang Waterfall, Lalek Forest, and Tincep's Paddy Fields. After watching birds and enjoying sightseeing in Minahasa highland, visitors could continue their trip to other places in North Sulawesi such as Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Tambun Maleo Sanctuary.
Sulawesi Myzomela
If you are interested in taking a sightseeing and birding tour in Minahasa highland and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to +6281332245180.
There is a small forest behind Siloam hospital of Tounelet village. The village was part of Sonder town in Minahasa regency. I did some birding walk this morning at its slope. Some interesting birds could be seen sitting on the branches of the surrounding trees and on the roof-tops of the villagers' houses. Zebra Doves were the first birds that I saw.
Zebra Dove
After that I looked for Sulawesi Hanging Parrot that was making noisy sounds among the trees. The bird flew over my head and landed on top of a durian tree. Unfortunately, the bird was covered by twigs and green leaves.
When I was setting up my spotting scope, I saw an Eastern Yellow Wagtail flying away from me. Perhaps, it was surprised by my sudden appearance.
Pale Blue Monarch in Tounelet Slope of Sonder town
There were Sooty-headed Bulbul, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Chestnut Munia, Zebra Dove and Cattle Egret. Some Cattle Egret, White-nest Swiftlet and Glossy Swiftlet were also flying in the air.
I also heard Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo calling from a distant tree. I used my binoculars to find where it was sitting on. It took less than 1 minute to find it. I immediately aimed my spotting scope at the bird. I had attached my cell phone on its lens using a small adapter. I was able to make a decent picture and video of the bird using this simple digiscoping system.
Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo in Tounelet village of Subdistrict Sonder
Birding at the beach outside Manado city
In addition to this morning birding at the slope of Tounelet village, a day before this, I had birding walk at the beach of Murex Dive Resort at the outskirts of Manado city. There, I saw Pacific Reef Heron, Gray-rumped Treeswift, Collared Kingfisher, Pacific Swallow and Sooty-headed Bulbul. I did not bring any camera or digiscoping system. So, I did not take pictures of these birds.
The beach at Murex Dive Resort at the outskirts of Manado city
If you are interested in taking a birding tour in North Sulawesi, and want me to organize your trip and guide you, please, contact me: Charles Roring by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp through this contact link.
Minahasa highland is an interesting destination for visitors who are interested in birdwatching and sightseeing. There are a lot of places which visitors can explore to watch birds and other animals. Some of them are described below:
Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove in Subdistrict Sonder of Minahasa regency
Hill Forest of Sonder - This is less visited but offers a great experience for birdwatchers. Various species of birds could be seen in this hill. They include Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Pygmy Hanging Parrot, Black-crowned White-eye, Warbling White-eye, Sulawesi Myzomela, Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Sulawesi Pitta, Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Mountain Tailorbird, Black-faced Munia, Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Sulawesi Drongo, Crimson Sunbird, White-breasted Woodswallow, Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Black Sunbird, and etc. The nearby farmland is a great site for finding Chinese Sparrowhawk, Collared Kingfisher, Black Kite, Sulawesi Crow, and Sulawesi Serpent Eagle.
Finch-billed Myna in Subdistrict Sonder of Minahasa
Mount Mahawu - Most birdwatchers go to this volcano to look for Scaly-breasted Kingfisher. However, more birds could be watched in the slope of this volcano. There are Red Jungle Fowl, Barred Rail, Superb Fruit Dove, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Eastern Yellow Wagtail, Collared Kingfisher, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Ashy Woodpecker, Isabelline Bush-hen, and etc.
Lake Tondano - After exploring the mountains of Minahasa, we could go to Tondano town to watch birds in Tondano Lake. There, we could watch various species of water birds such as Purple Heron, White-browed Crake, Little Egret, Yellow Bittern, Oriental Reed Warbler, Javan Pond Heron, Pacific Swallow, Whiskered Tern, Eastern Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Black Kite, Osprey, Brahminy Kite, and etc.
Zebra Dove in Subdistrict Sonder of Minahasa
Tincep Paddy Field is another site in Minahasa highland that is suitable for watching water birds. Visitors could walk along the roadside to watch such birds as Pied Stilt, Barred Rail, Buff-banded Rail, Zebra Dove, Spotted Dove, Collared Kingfisher, White-browed Crake, Scaly-breasted Munia, Chestnut Munia, Eastern Cattle Egret, Medium Egret, and etc. If we continue our exploration of Tincep village, we will arrive at waterfall areas which is located in deep ravine. The landscape view is beautiful. We could watch Green Imperial Pigeon, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Black-naped Oriole, Sulawesi-crested Myna, Hair-crested (white-eyed) Drongo, and etc.
Sulawesi Myzomela in Sonder's forest of Minahasa highland
Lake Linow is another site for watching water birds. Some of the many birds which visitors could watch include: Sunda Teal, Barn Swallow, Glossy Swiftlet, White-breasted Waterhen, Dusky Moorhen, and etc.
Birdwatching could also be carried out at nights. Birds that could be found include Sulawesi Scops Owl, and Speckled Boobook, and Sulawesi-masked Owl.
Collared Kingfisher in Tomohon
Extending Your Trip
More birds could be watched in the lowland and lower montane area of Minahasa Peninsula. The recommended sites include the farmland area at the outskirts of Manado city and Tangkoko Nature reserve in Bitung Municipality. Farmland at the Outskirts of Manado city especially around Sam Ratulangi Airport. Birds that could be watched include: Yellow-billed Malkoha, Sulawesi Crow, Pacific Swallow, Sahul Sunbird, Pale Blue Monarch, Javan Myna, Java Sparrow, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Chestnut Munia, Scaly-breasted Munia, Zebra Dove, and etc.
Celebes-crested Macaque in Tangkoko Nature Reserve
Tangkoko Nature Reserve is also the natural habitat of a lot of species of mammals, insects, and reptiles. Celebes-crested Macaque, Gursky's Spectral Tarsier, Sulawesi Bear Cuscus, Whitish Dwarf Squirrel, are some of the mammals that we could watch in Tangkoko.
If you are interested in taking a birding tour in Minahasa highland, and want me to guide you, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp through this contact link.
Tomohon is a town in Minahasa highland of Indon sia. It is surrounded by volcanoes, farm forest and rice fields. It is also located near Sonder town, another important birding site in Minahasa regency. From Tomohon, most visitors go to Mount Mahawu to look for Scaly-breasted Kingfisher. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of other birds that are interesting for visitors to see. They include Superb Fruit-dove, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Yellow-billed Malkoha, Warbling White-eye, Black-crowned White-eye, Sulawesi Pitta, Scaly-breasted Kingfisher, and etc. For nocturnal birds, visitors could watch such birds as Speckled Boobook, Sulawesi Scops Owl, Sulawesi-masked Owl and etc.
Birding Sites Around Tomohon
In addition to Mount Mahawu, there are other birding sites that can be reached from Tomohon town. They include Lake Tondano, Lake Linow, Sonder's farm forest, Kayawu rice field, Tincep's Rice Field and Kengkang Waterfall.
Birding activities are conducted in the mornings from 06:00 to 09:00, late afternoon from 15:00 to 18:00 and at nights from 19:00 to 21:00.
Sulawesi Pitta
In Lake Linow, Lake Tondano; Kayawu and Tincep's Rice Field, most of the birds that can be watched are water birds. They include Pied Stilt, Javan Pond Heron, White-browed Crake, and etc.
Sonder is a highly recommended destination for highland birds such as Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Sulawesi Myzomela, Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Sulawesi Bush Warbler, Sulphur-bellied Whistler, and etc. There are also Sulawesi Serpent Eagle, Black-naped Fruit-dove, Black-naped Oriole, Pygmy Woodpecker, and White-rumped Triller.
After birding in Tomohon, Mount Mahawu, Sonder's forest, Tincep's rice field and Kengkang Waterfall, visitors could continue their trip to other places such as Tangkoko Nature Reserve. The average duration of a birding tour in North Sulawesi is 7 to 9 days.
Birding in Tomohon, Mount Mahawu and Sonder Forest of Minahasa highland
If you are interested in taking a birding tour in North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp through this contact link.
From 31 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, I organized and guided Fred Hareau, Canadian birder, on 1-week birdwatching tour across several key birding sites in North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia.
North Sulawesi is one of Indonesia’s most important birding destinations, renowned for its high level of endemism, varied habitats, and relatively accessible forest reserves.
Green-backed Kingfisher
During this trip, we explored a wide range of ecosystems, including lowland rainforest, coastal forest, freshwater lakes, volcanic highlands, agricultural landscapes, and montane forest. The main birding locations were:
Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Temboan Hill
Naun River and coastal areas of Batu Putih village
Lake Tondano and Lake Linow
Rurukan village and Mount Mahawu (Tomohon Highlands)
Kayawu rice field
Mount Lengkoan Forest, Tincep rice fields, and Kengkang Waterfall, Lahendong Slope, (in Sonder area)
The farmland at the outskirts of Manado City
In addition to birds, North Sulawesi was also famous for its endemic mammals, which added great value to our birding experience.
Sulawesi Lilac Kingfisher
Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Temboan Hill
31 December 2025 – 1 January 2026
I met Fred at Sam Ratulangi International Airport of Manado city and then together we went by a chartered car to Tangkoko Nature Reserve. It was one of the most famous protected areas in Sulawesi. This lowland forest was a stronghold for many Sulawesi endemics and offers excellent birding along forest trails, fig trees, and forest edges.
Some of the notable birds recorded included:
Rusty-backed Thrush
Green-backed Kingfisher
Lilac Kingfisher
Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher
Great-billed Kingfisher
Ruddy Kingfisher
Yellow-billed Malkoha
Sulawesi Babbler
Knobbed Hornbill
Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill
Black-billed Koel
Black-naped Fruit Dove
Maroon-chinned Fruit Dove
Finch-billed Myna
White-necked Myna
Chinese Sparrowhawk
White-bellied Imperial Pigeon
Isabelline Bush-hen
Black Naped Oriole
Oriental Darter
Little Grebe
Mammal sightings were equally exciting. We observed Celebes Dwarf Squirrel, Sulawesi Bear Cuscus, and Celebes Crested Macaque, they are endemic mammals that are frequently encountered by visitors inside Tangkoko's forest.
Birding Tour in North Sulawesi
Naun River and Coastal Birding
2 January 2026
On the second day, we traveled by motorized boat to the Naun River, a productive area for waterbirds and coastal species. This site is particularly known as one of the most reliable places to see the Great-billed Kingfisher that liked to perch on the branches of mangrove trees or on the rachis of coconut leaf.
Along the sea cliffs, beaches, and river mouth, we recorded many coastal and migratory species, including:
Pacific Swallow
Blue Rock Thrush
Lesser Frigatebird
Pied Imperial Pigeon
White-rumped Cuckooshrike
Little Egret
Medium Egret
Pacific Reef Heron
Nankeen Night Heron
Sulawesi Crow
Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon
Common Sandpiper
Terek Sandpiper
Great-tailed Tattler
Pied Stilt
During our stay in Tangkoko, we also conducted night birding walks which were very successful. Nocturnal species observed included:
Ochre-bellied Boobook
Speckled Boobook
Northern Boobook
Sulawesi Scops Owl
Sulawesi Nightjar
Sulawesi Bear Cuscus in Tangkoko's forest
Lake Tondano and Tomohon
3 January 2026
After three nights in Tangkoko, we moved inland to the highlands and visited Lake Tondano, the largest freshwater lake in North Sulawesi. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are excellent for waterbirds and open-country species.
Birds seen at Lake Tondano included:
Brahminy Kite
Black Kite
Dusky Moorhen
Oriental Reed Warbler
White-browed Crake
Barred Rail
Scaly-breasted Munia
Chestnut Munia
Javan Pond Heron
Cattle Egret
White-breasted Waterhen
That evening, during night birding around Tomohon, we were rewarded with a sighting of the elusive Sulawesi Masked Owl, a rarely seen endemic species.
Tomohon Highlands and Mount Mahawu
4–5 January 2026
Early on 4 January, we visited Rurukan Village, which was located at the slope of Mount Mahawu. There, we saw the spectacular Sulawesi Pitta. Fortunately, we had good views of this colorful forest bird under the canopy of aren trees.
We then continued to Mount Mahawu, a dormant volcano surrounded by montane forest. This area is ideal for highland species, and we recorded:
Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
Citrine Canary Flycatcher
Yellow-sided Flowerpecker
Warbling White-eye
Black-crowned White-eye
Superb Fruit-dove
Sulawesi Cuckoo Dove
Scaly-breasted Kingfisher
Crimson Sunbird
Black Eagle
Later, we visited Lake Linow, a volcanic lake near Lahendong village. Despite its strong sulfur smell, the lake supports several wetland birds, including:
Sunda Teal
Collared Kingfisher
Purple Heron
Australasian Swamphen
Barn Swallow
Javan Pond Heron
A possible Whiskered Tern (in winter plumage)
Barred Rail
White-breasted Waterhen
Sonder Town: Mount Lengkoan, Rice Fields, and Tincep's Waterfall
5–6 January 2026
From Mount Mahawu, we traveled to the Sonder area, covering Mount Lengkoan Forest, Tincep rice fields, and Kengkang Waterfall. Although we experienced heavy rain during much of this part of the trip, birding was still productive.
Highlights included:
* Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker
* Crimson Sunbird
* Sulawesi Myzomela
* Mountain Tailorbird
* Hair-crested Drongo
* Black-crowned White-eye
* Warbling White-eye
* Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
* Sulawesi Cuckoo-Dove
* Black-naped Oriole
* Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon
* Pygmy Woodpecker
Wetland and open-area species of Tincep village included:
* Barred Rail
* Collared Kingfisher
* Pied Stilt
* Javan Pond Heron
* Purple Heron
* Cattle Egret
* Little Egret
* Zebra Dove
* Black-faced Munia
Manado City Outskirts **7 January 2026**
On our final morning, we departed Tomohon at 05:48 and birded the outskirts of Manado City. Despite being an urban area, it still offered interesting sightings:
* Yellow-billed Malkoha
* Javan Myna
* Brown-throated Sunbird
* Sahul Sunbird
* Scaly-breasted Munia
* Chestnut Munia
* Sooty-headed Bulbul
* Sulawesi Crow
* Zebra Dove
* Collared Kingfisher
We were surprised to see three Java Sparrows (Paddaoryzivora), a species not native to Sulawesi. These birds were most likely escaped cage birds, a common phenomenon in Indonesian cities.
Java Sparrow (photographed using cell phone) among green leaves
A raptor was also seen soaring high above the city, but due to cloudy weather, identification was uncertain. It was possibly a SpottedHarrier.
Final Notes
This one-week trip demonstrated why North Sulawesi is one of Indonesia’s premier birding destinations. With good infrastructure, a wide variety of habitats, and many endemic species, it is ideal for both short visits and longer birding tours.
The best birding conditions are generally from April to October, but productive birding is possible all year-round.
If you are interested in taking a birding tour in North Sulawesi and would like me to organize and guide you during the trip, please contact me:
If you’re a birding enthusiast looking to discover the breathtaking beauty of North Sulawesi, a birding tour to Sonder in Minahasa highland should be at the top of your list. This region, rich in biodiversity, is home to a wide variety of unique and endemic bird species.
Bay Coucal
From the lush Talikuran Rice Field to the towering peaks of Mount Lengkoan, Kecamatan (Subdistrict) Sonder offers a unique birdwatching experience.
Yellow-billed Malkoha
Birds in Sonder of Minahasa regency, Indonesia
In this guide, we’ll take you on a birding tour through Talikuran Rice Field, Lalek forest, Lahendong - Rambunan Slopes, Tounelet Slope, Kengkang Waterfall, and Mount Lengkoan—each location offering its own distinct habitats and bird species. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Birding Tour Program: Exploring Sonder’s Natural Wonders
Day 1: Tounelet Slope, Talikuran Rice Field, Lalek Farm Forest
Morning: Birdwatching at Tounelet Slope
Next, head to the Tounelet Slope, a lush and mountainous area located near Sonder’s heart. This region offers a completely different landscape, with tropical trees providing habitat for both lowland and montane bird species. It’s an ideal spot for birders seeking a more immersive experience. Bird Species to Spot at Tounelet Slope:
Sahul Sunbird
Brown-throated Sunbird
Sulawesi Cuckoo-Dove
Black-naped Oriole
Gray-sided Flowerpecker
Pale Blue Monarch
Chestnut Munia
Yellow-billed Malkoha
Sooty-headed Bulbul
Pale Blue Monarch
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Pygmy Hanging Parrot
Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon
Zebra Dove
White-nest Swiftlet
Crimson Sunbird
Evening: Optional Night Walk for Nocturnal Birds
After a full day of birding, you can take a relaxing evening stroll. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a night walk to spot nocturnal birds like the Sulawesi Scops Owl, Minahasa-masked Owl and Speckled Boobook.
Speckled Boobook in North Sulawesi
Afternoon: Birdwatching at Lalek Forest and
Talikuran Rice Field
Your birding adventure begins at Talikuran Rice Field and Lalek Forest, a peaceful agricultural area surrounded by forest trees, wetlands and grasslands. The late afternoon walk hours provide the best opportunity for birding, as many species are active and visible. The rice fields attract a variety of birds, especiall the wetland species.
Bird Species to Spot at Talikuran Rice Fields include:
White-browed Crake
Barred Rail
Buff-banded Rail
Javan Pond Heron
Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis)
Little Egret
Cattle Egret
Chestnut Munia
Scaly-breasted Munia
White-breasted Woodswallow
Collared Kingfisher
Barn Swallow
In the nearby Lalek forest, we could look for
Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
Pale Blue Monarch
Sulawesi Drongo
Isabelline Bush-hen
Black-naped Oriole
Sulawesi Crow
Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo
Sulawesi Babbler
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Day 2: Mount Lengkoan & Kengkang Waterfall
Morning: Mount Lengkoan Birdwatching Hike
The morning time is perfect for a hike up Mount Lengkoan, one of the peaks in the region. The hike offers natural views of forest and farmland and the opportunity to observe montane bird species unique to the higher altitudes of Sulawesi. A full-day trek will give you the chance to see some of Sulawesi's most rare and sought-after birds.
Bird Species to Spot at Mount Lengkoan:
Yellow-breasted Racket-tail
Warbling White-eye
Black-crowned White-eye
Sulawesi Myzomela
Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
Crimson Sunbird
Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker
Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
White-breasted Woodswallow
Glossy Swiftlet
Black Kite
Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
Sulawesi Goshawk
Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove
White-faced Cuckoo-dove
Superb Fruit-dove
Gray Wagtail
Black-crowned White-eye
Evening: Sunset at Mount Lengkoan
Conclude the day by enjoying a magnificent sunset from the peak of Mount Lengkoan. Afterward, descend back to your accommodation for a restful evening.
Butterfly watching in Sonder Minahasa Highland
In addition to birds, visitors could also watch butterflies while walking along the roadside of Mount Lengkoan and the farmland of Sonder. Some of the butterfly species which they could see include: Celebes-banded Swallowtail (Papiliogigon), Lime Swallowtail (Papiliodemoleus), Helen's Birdwing (Troideshelena), The Clipper (Parthenossylvia) and etc.
The Clipper Butterfly
Menado Yellow Tiger
Celebes Leafwing
Start the afternoon day at the Kengkang Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction surrounded by lush forests. The cool mist from the waterfall creates an ideal environment for spotting various forest-dwelling bird species. The area is home to a mix of water-loving and woodland birds, so keep your binoculars ready.
Bird Species to Spot at Kengkang Waterfall:
Pale-blue Monarch
Black-faced Munia
Yellow-billed Malkoha
Green Imperial Pigeon
Sulawesi-crested Myna
White-rumped Triller
Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
Bay Coucal
Day 3: Optional Birding Extensions or Relaxation
If you’re not ready to end your birding tour, consider exploring additional sites around Sonder. Some recommended extensions include:
Lake Linow, a hotspot for waterbirds and migratory species.
Local Village Birdwatching, where you can experience rural life while spotting common village birds such as Sooty-headed Bulbul, Eaurasian Tree Sparrow, Black-crowned White-eye, Chestnut Munia, Cattle Egret and Little Egret.
Alternatively, you can take a more relaxed day, enjoying the natural beauty of the area without the pressure of a full hike or birding session.
Essential Tips for Birdwatching in Sonder, Sulawesi
Best Time to Visit: Birding can be done all year round. The dryer season, from April to early November, offers the better birding conditions with fewer rain showers and clear skies.
Gear You’ll Need: A pair of high-quality binoculars, a camera with a good zoom lens, and a spotting scope (not a must but could enhance your birding experience.
Hire a Local Guide: To make the most of your birdwatching experience, consider hiring a local guide who knows the area and its birds well.
Finch-billed Myna
Why Sonder of North Sulawesi is a Recommended Birdwatching Destination?
Sonder offers a nice birding experience for nature lovers, featuring a mix of wetland, forest, and mountainous habitats. The region’s varied landscapes provide birdwatchers with the chance to spot both common and rare species that are endemic to Sulawesi. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Sonder is one of the top birdwatching destinations in North Sulawesi province of Indonesia.
Zebra Dove
If you’re looking to explore one of Sulawesi's most biodiverse regions, a birding tour in Sonder will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Whether you're trekking the slopes of Mount Lengkoan, watching waterbirds at Kengkang Waterfall, or observing the rich wildlife in Talikuran Rice Field, every moment will be a highlight of your adventure.
Ready to embark on your birdwatching journey in Sonder? Pack your binoculars and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in North Sulawesi—a true paradise for bird lovers!
Where to stay during the birdwatching trip?
For accommodation in Sonder town, there are homestays that belong to local villagers which visitors could stay at. Hotels are available in nearby Tomohon town.
Flight Routes to Manado city
To take this birding tour in Sonder of Minahasa highland and snorkeling tour in Bunaken islands, tour participants need to fly to Manado city which is the capital of North Sulawesi Province. Direct flight from Singapore and Manado is served by Scoot Air. For visitors who fly from Guangzhou to Manado, the flights are served by TransNusa and China Southern Airlines. For visitors who are already in Indonesia, they can fly from any major cities in such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar, Makassar, Ternate, and Sorong by Garuda, Lion Air, Batik Air, SuperAirjet, and Wings Air.
Flight routes to Manado city
Where is Sonder and how to go there?
Sonder is a small subdistrict town that is located in Minahasa regency of Indonesia. It can be reached by car from Manado city for approximately 1 hour.
Car route between Manado city and Sonder
Booking
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