Do you want to forget about everyday life and immerse yourself into wilderness and hear only the relaxing sounds of birds and the rustling of troop of monkeys in the trees? Then, you should add Tangkoko National Park to your travel wish list.
On the northeast corner of Sulawesi, the Tangkoko National Park is a large 88,747,260 square meter animals Tangkoko is the crown jewel of the Tangkoko – a definite animal paradise. At Trek Indonesia, we consider Tangkoko to be one of the best places to experience through the eyes of the animals who call it home. That is why we have created a comprehensive guide that will help you cross paths with the world’s tiniest monkeys and help you have both a safe and entertaining visit.
Tangkoko’s Distinct Features
Tangkoko is an impressive forest, having unique features that set it apart from other living laboratories of evolutionary processes; these are ranging from lowland rainforests and coastal beaches to volcanic mountains like Mount Tangkoko and Mount Klabat.
However, what may impress you the most is the forest’s endemic wildlife that you may consider to be almost miraculous, and, by the way, these are wildlife forms that you may also wish to see, but you will be disappointed because they are nowhere to be found. Here, the stars of the show are the Sulawesi Crested Black Macaques, Yaki and the Tarsiers, who also happen to be stars of the show in other respects as well because they are super cute and have bug eyes. Therefore, whether you are a professional photographer, or just someone who enjoys a good hike, the forest will not disappoint you as it is a hiker’s paradise.
Trek Indonesia: What to Expect on Your Trek
Hiking in Tangkoko National Park is an early start to the day. Our treks start at 04:30 and 05:00. This is the best time to start because it is when the forest comes alive.
- Beginning at Sam Ratulangi: Our guests arrive in Manado. It is a two hour journey to the entrance to the national park. The drive is through beautiful jungle roads and palm trees.
- Educating at Point A: Our first stop is the Tangkoko Education Center. The Education Center is an experience because it is an opportunity to learn about the history of the reserve. Did you know that it has been protected since 1919 and the Dutch colonial rule? They have a standard of conduct that is taught there so that during the visit we reserve the space of the animals.
- Hiking: The path is easy for the most part and is likely to be leveled. If it has been raining the path is likely to be muddy. The actual hike is about 4 hours long. During that time you will see Macaques doing grooming behavior and hornbills flying.
- The Black Sand Beach: Most mornings we take a walk to a place for lunch. It’s a chance to relax, think and grab a bite before we dive into the afternoons activities. Here we find a rare and interesting black sand beach, where the sand is black due to volcanic activity.
- The Tarsier Twilight: About 17:30, we have one last outing where we drop by the tarsier trees. Here we experience some real tarsier magic and admire the little primates as they wake up for the evening and get ready to hunt. It is an experience that is not to be missed and full of story book magic.
Interactions & Observations of The Yaki and Tarsiers with Their Surroundings
The Sulawesi Crested Black Macaque is a remarkable animal to observe. They live in large groups- typically more than 100 individuals – and are very accustomed to interacting with people as opposed to how it may be on Bali. Ensure that while observing this amazing animal, you remain at least five meters from them to avoid causing potential stress to the group.
Tarsiers are one of the smallest primates in the world. They are nocturnal and very sensitive to light so there should be no bright flashes or loud sounds. You will certainly remember looking into a tarsier’s eyes as she peers out from the hollow of a large tree.
Community Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Go: The best time is August since there is most likely to be the least rain.
- What to Pack: Trekking shoes are the best for walking quickly and safely through the forest, insect repellent will protect you from bug bites, and a good camera will let you take good wildlife photos and binoculars will let you see far-off animals.
- Safety First: The forest is safe if there are no other animals, follow all the guides. There are tarantulas and vipers, so you must stay on the path.
Sulawesi with Trek Indonesia
At Trek Indonesia, we love the island and want to advocate for it and its services. By booking a guided tour to Tangkoko National Park with a responsible travel company, you support local conservation and the ecosystem sustainers of the region. Booking a tour guides eco travel tour at Tangkoko also helps sustain local community members here.
Don’t want to handle the small details of the trip, like seeing wildlife, Trek Indonesia will! From a short day trip to a long stay with a local guesthouse, we will make sure that your tour and guide Tangkoko experience will be legendary.
