Tangkoko National Park, Manado

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Located at the foot of Dua Saudara Mountain, the Tangkoko Nature Reserve is comprised of rolling hills and valleys with a variety of hardwood trees and unusual plant life. The animal life is also quite varied, and one can often view Tarsius tarsier (one of the smallest known primates), black tailless monkeys, maleo birds, wild pigs and kuskus (marsupials). Tangkoko Batuangus Reserve offers a suitable protective environment to help prevent these animals from becoming extinct.

The Tangkoko Nature Reserve is a flora and fauna conservation area on Mount Tangkoko in the district of Bitung in the province of North Sulawesi, about one hour’s drive from Manado. The reserve is particularly attractive for its unique wildlife that can be observed roaming free in the forest.

Located about an hour’s drive from Manado, you will first pass the Batuputih Nature Park that lies between Batuputih Bawah sub district and the Tangkoko Nature Reserve at Batuangus. Covering an area of 615 hectares, the Batuputih Nature Park is a savanna suitable for camping, outbound activities and relaxing by the beach. Since Batuputih is mostly visited by tourists, it is therefore also the most well known, although it is only one of four conservation areas at Tangkoko.

In addition to the Batuputih Park, thTangkoko Reserve covers a total area of 3,196 hectares , where the Batuangus Nature Reserve has 635 hectares (located between the Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Pinangunian village), while the Duasaudara Nature Reserve covers 4,299 hectares (which includes Mount Duasaudara and its surrounding areas),

There are some tips that better notice when visiting Tangkoko National Park. This will be avoid us from wild animals that can be appear or even get disturbed during our visit:

- Dress appropriately. Wear light, breathable clothing that dries quickly. Drab colours are preferable; avoid whites and reds. Although it is hot, long sleeves and pants prevent scratches and insect bites. Use insect repellent and tuck your pants into your socks to minimize insect, leech and mite bites.
- Carry good binoculars; without them even the most spectacular birds will be no more than a shiny dot in the canopy. Carry a waterproof bag big enough for binoculars and cameras in case of a downpour.
- Go slowly, quietly and in small groups (no more than 5) so animals will be less likely to be disturbed by your presence.
- Seek out fruiting trees, especially figs, or pools and streams. These are profitable places to sit and wait for wildlife, particularly birds.
- Sit often and for long periods and search for the things that tend to go unnoticed like glossy beetles, graceful butterflies, velvety ants, and exquisite but minute flowers.
- Be aware of sounds - the buzzing of insects, calls of birds, rustling in the underbrush. Quite often these cues are the first indication that something is about to happen.
- Go early. Most birds and many mammals are active in the morning with their movements dropping off by midday. The afternoon peak is never as energetic as the morning but these are good times to visit streams and water sources.
- When viewing monkeys, let them approach you on their own terms. If you stoop down and avoid looking directly in their eyes they will be less inhibited. Do not chase or pursue monkeys and never feed them. No matter how innocent they may look, wild monkeys bite and carry dangerous diseases.
- When viewing tarsiers at night don't forget your flashlight. However be considerate of their extremely sensitive eyes.

This conservation area for endangered species in Bitung is located some 70 kilometers from Manado. Tourists prefer to visit Batuputih, making it the favourite tourist destination of Tangkoko. It takes about an hour’s drive from Manado to Bitung and a further 45 minutes from Bitung to Batuputih travelling by winding asphalt roads.

[sunshine]