From palm-fringed islands to jungle-covered mountains, Gorontalo Province showcases the natural beauty of Indonesia. Relax on postcard-perfect beaches, explore world-class dive sites and visit a colonial-era fort. Venture into the mountainous interior to trek through the jungle and spot rare flora and fauna.
Things to do in Gorontalo
Explore pristine dive sites in the Gulf of Tomini. The gulf is a diver’s paradise and offers everything from shallow coral reefs to the wreck of an American fighter jet shot down in World War II. Head to Togean National Park to dive with enormous schools of barracuda. Olele Marine Park is another world-class dive destination and one of the only places in the world to see the ornate Salvador Dali sponge.
Heart-shaped Pulo Cinta Island is surrounded by sugar-white sand and translucent water. It’s nicknamed the “Isle of Love” and popular with honeymooners. Book a stay at one of the luxury floating villas clustered around the island.
Escape to Saronde Island, a tropical paradise framed by white-sand beaches and swaying coconut palms. Bask in the sunshine, swim in the crystalline water and snorkel over vibrant coral reefs. Island hopping tours are a fun way to explore the surrounding islets or you can rent a kayak and paddle at your own pace.
The mountains of Gorontalo Province are home to unique animals, including the endangered anoa dwarf buffalo. Look for adorable, bug-eyed tarsius marsupials perched in the trees and spot maleo birds, a rare species endemic to Sulawesi Island. Guided treks take you deep into the jungle and are the best way to explore the mountains.
Visit Fort Otanaha and learn about the Portuguese colonial era. It was built in the 16th century and commands sweeping views over Lake Limboto and the surrounding countryside. Look closely at the walls, which were built using a mix of sand and crushed Maleo bird eggshells.
Getting around Gorontalo
Taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around Gorontalo Province, while boats connect the mainland with destinations like Batudaka in the Togean Islands. Gorontalo Province is on the Minahasa Peninsula on Sulawesi Island. Jalaluddin Airport is a one-hour drive from Gorontalo City.