Otonaha Fort in Gorontalo City, Gorontalo Province

What do tourists know about Gorontalo Province? Well, most of them are likely to think about beaches and highlands. Have no worries. The region offers more than those! For example, several majestic forts reside in that area. Otanaha Fort is one of them, which is located in Dembe I Village. As people may expect, the fort offers a historical value for tourists to learn during the visit. Actually, visitors can enjoy other things as well, including photography and exploration there. One thing, it is recommended to come with a local guide who can tell both history and story behind the fort. It would be worth the expense, so don’t worry.

The Nuance
The first thing to notice about Otonaha Fort is related to the location. It resides on the top of a hill! No wonder, tourists would be able to enjoy beautiful panoramas once they arrive at the site. Even local houses and farms can be seen clearly above. As for the appearance, the fort looks like a coliseum and it even features a grassy field located in the midst of the fort. However, the size is way smaller than that of the real coliseum.

Exploring Otonaha Fort
According to the locals, Otonaha Fort was built during the reign of Portuguese back then. It even became the eyewitness of the struggle of the locals against Portuguese armies. For thorough information regarding the history, though, tourists must hire a local guide or ask villagers. For the information, the site comes with three buildings. Otanaha is the prime fort, while two others are Ulupahu and Otahiya. It is said Otanaha derives from two words, Ota and Naha. These mean the fort of Ilato’s son!

Aside from learning the history, visitors come to Otanaha Fort for other reasons, too. For example, they want to appreciate architecture and conduct exploration. That means tourists are likely to explore all available forts including the main building and smaller forts. Have no worries. Taking photos can be done freely! The only rule is that tourists must not litter during the exploration. Later, once arriving at the top of the fort, tourists would be able to witness astonishing views on the horizon, too! These include local farms, rural buildings, trees, and much more!

However, in order to reach the best spot for sightseeing, tourists must pass through about 351 stairs! Have no worries. Some resting points are available so everyone can avoid tiredness when heading up there. Well, despite the old age, the fort has a good shape and remains sturdy. That means everyone can explore the site without worries later. According to the locals, in fact, the fort has been there since 1522! No wonder, the popularity is superb, isn’t it?

Nearby Attractions

• Bulalo Limboto Lake
• Potanga Public Bathing Place

How to Get There
It is easy to reach Otonaha Fort, as long as tourists have arrived in Gorontalo Province. Well, for outsiders, they must take advantage of an airplane for a more efficient trip. Here is an example. A flight from Soekarno – Hatta International Airport (Jakarta City) to Jalaluddin Airport may take around 3 hours.

Once arriving at the airport, tourists can take Batu Doa Street and head to the fort immediately. For the information, the distance is 23.7 km so this trip may take around 40 minutes. From Gorontalo City, for another example, tourists can simply take Batu Doa Street and head to Otonaha Fort right away. This time, the trip takes longer, which is around 52 minutes. It is because the distance is 28.9 km.

Where to Stay

• Family Homestay
• Airy Hotel