Lembeh diving is renowned for the many rare and crazy critters to be found, but did you know that this natural richness can also be found on land!  Just 90 minutes from our Lembeh Resort lies Tangkoko Nature Reserve, considered one of the most important areas in the country for biodiversity.  This means we can continue our critter hunting for some of the world’s rarest and most spectacular species even when we’re not diving!

Recognised as a ‘nature monument’ in 1919, the Tangkoko area has been protected since 1942 and is home to many endemic species (meaning they can only be found here).  Tangkoko has become particularly well known for its crested black macaques and tarsier monkeys and is a good model of sustainable eco-tourism as local homestays and guides can earn a living through introducing people to the wonders of the park rather than exploiting its resources.  The macaques live in large social groups and travel noisily through the forest eating fruits and wiggling their bright red butts!  The tarsiers are a little more reserved and hunt small creatures nocturnally.  They are the world’s smallest primates and with their giant eyes and ears are strong contenders for the most adorable!

Sulawesi is also famous for its birdlife with upwards of 100 species found here IN Tangkoko alone.  Just last week we were fortunate enough to see a pair of hornbills and lots of beautiful kingfishers!

Its geographic location represents a transitional zone between Asian and Australian plants and animals and it is this that makes both the terrestrial and underwater life so special.  We can arrange Tangkoko trips from our Lembeh resort which is the perfect way to round off your diving while you’re waiting out your no-fly time!  It’s also perfect as an afternoon visit, combining morning dives with an afternoon forest walk.

Quite a lot of our guests visit Tangkoko after their diving trip or stop off on their way between our Bunaken and Lembeh resorts – the best way to see the incredible diversity that the region has to offer.  Just one week into 2020 and we can already tick off plenty of critters including rhinopias, wunderpus and blue-ringed octopus with Nicole and Jacqui returning once again for the muck diving!

If you’d like to come and join us in Lembeh, or would like more information, fill in the form below and we will get right back to you!