Looking for things to do outside the water in Lembeh, North Sulawesi? While the Lembeh Strait is famous for its amazing muck diving, there’s so much more to enjoy above the surface. North Sulawesi is full of beautiful places to explore, from volcanic lakes, cool mountain views, tropical forests, and more!
That’s why at Solitude Lembeh, we’ve created land experiences that go beyond the dive. Our guided tours invite you to discover the cultural richness and natural wonders of the region. From peaceful nature walks to cultural day trips, each tour is carefully planned to match your interests and comfort.
If you’re ready to explore beyond the water, read on and let us show you how rewarding it is to go on a land adventure on your Lembeh journey!
5 Activities You Can Do in Lembeh Beyond Diving
There’s a lot to love about Lembeh, even when you’re not diving. With Solitude Lembeh as your guide, discovering these highlights becomes effortless and enriching. Here are five great ways to explore Lembeh beyond the water:
1. Visit Tangkoko National Park
Tangkoko National Park is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in North Sulawesi. The area is a quiet forest filled with tropical trees and amazing animals, including black macaques, colorful hornbills, and the smallest monkey in the world, the tiny tarsier.
The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon, when the animals are active. Joining this tour with Solitude Lembeh means you’re in expert hands who know just where to look and will help you spot the animals without disturbing them. It’s a great trip for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone who wants a peaceful escape from the busy world.
2. Travel the Minahasa Highlands
The Minahasa Highlands is a well-known mountainous region in North Sulawesi, home to the Minahasan people and rich in tradition, cool air, and scenic views. It’s a great place to cool off from the coastal heat and experience a different side of life in Sulawesi.
On Solitude Lembeh’s highlands tour, you’ll travel through winding mountain roads surrounded by rice fields, forested hills, and quiet villages. The journey itself is part of the charm, offering a peaceful look at rural life and everyday scenes that are both simple and beautiful.
The tour also includes visits to traditional Minahasan homes, where you’ll learn about local customs and ways of life. You’ll hear stories passed down through generations, taste regional snacks, and get a feel for the strong community spirit that defines this area.
3. Explore Bitung’s Local Life
Bitung is just across the water from Lembeh, and it’s full of life and color. Our tour takes you to the heart of the city, where you can visit local markets, taste their delicious street food, and watch the daily buzz of people going about their day. It’s lively, friendly, and packed with personality.
After exploring the city center, you’ll also visit quiet spots by the harbor, see fishing boats, and take in views of Mount Dua Saudara. Bitung is a great place to enjoy local culture in a laid-back way. It’s close, it’s real, and it gives you a better feel for the world beyond the dive sites.
4. Go Beach Hopping Around Lembeh
While Lembeh is famous for its world-class diving, its peaceful beaches provide the perfect escape for relaxation. With a short boat ride or car trip, you can discover peaceful spots where you can swim, walk along the shore, or simply enjoy the view with your feet in the sand.
Each beach has something special. Some are great for snorkeling, others are perfect for a picnic or a calm afternoon in the shade. Along the way, you might see local fishing boats, friendly smiles from villagers, and children playing by the water. It’s a simple and refreshing way to enjoy life above the waves.
5. Taste Real Minahasan Flavors
North Sulawesi is known for bold, spicy flavors that reflect the region’s rich cultural mix. Signature dishes like ayam rica-rica (spicy chili chicken) and ikan woku (herbed fish stew) are packed with heat from bird’s eye chilies, balanced by fragrant herbs like lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves. Many recipes are cooked with coconut milk (santan), giving them a rich, comforting depth.
Most tours include a stop for lunch at a local restaurant or warung, where you can try regional favorites freshly prepared. It’s a simple but satisfying way to experience the local flavors and enjoy a relaxed meal in a setting that feels authentic to the area.
When Is the Best Time to Do Land Tours in Lembeh?
You can enjoy land tours with Solitude Lembeh all year long, but some times of year bring a little something extra. North Sulawesi has two main seasons: a drier season from June to October and a wetter season from November to May. Both offer unique experiences, depending on what you’re looking for.
Dry Season: Best for Scenic Walks and Nature Tours
If you prefer cooler weather and easier walking trails, the dry season is a great choice. It’s the best time for exploring the Minahasa Highlands or trekking through Tangkoko, where dry paths make the forest more comfortable to navigate. The fresh mountain air and clear views also make this a favorite time for guests who enjoy scenic drives and nature photography.
Not only that, for those interested in local food and culture, timing your trip around the drier season has extra perks. July to September marks the peak durian season in North Sulawesi. This is also when many villages celebrate “Pengucapan Syukur,” a local Thanksgiving tradition filled with home-cooked feasts and warm hospitality. It’s a special way to connect with the region’s people and their way of life.
Wet Season: Lush Landscapes and a Slower Pace
While the wetter season from November to May brings occasional rainfall, it also comes with its charm. The landscape turns lush and vibrant, especially in the highlands and rainforest areas like Tangkoko. Morning tours often enjoy cool, misty air and dramatic skies, making it great for moody landscape photography.
This time of year also tends to be quieter for tourism, making your visits to cultural sites, markets, and villages more personal and unrushed. If you don’t mind a little rain and prefer a slower-paced, green-season vibe, the wetter months can offer a beautifully serene experience.
What to Pack for a Lembeh Land Tour
You don’t need much to enjoy a great day out—but with a few thoughtful essentials, you’ll stay comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings. Here’s what we suggest packing for your land tour:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Closed-toe walking shoes or sturdy trail sandals are perfect for the rainforest paths in Tangkoko and exploring villages in the highlands.
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable fabrics are ideal for the tropical climate. Consider lightweight long trousers and sleeves for Tangkoko to offer protection from insects and plants.
- Sun and Insect Protection: Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reliable mosquito repellent.
- Rain Gear: A small, foldable poncho or light rain jacket is wise, especially if traveling during the wetter months.
- Sarong or Scarf: A versatile item that can be used as a beach wrap, a respectful covering for visiting cultural sites, or a light blanket.
- Camera and Binoculars: Don’t miss the photo opportunities, and a pair of binoculars will bring distant wildlife, like hornbills in Tangkoko, much closer.
- Reusable Water Bottle: In line with our eco-conscious ethos, we encourage you to bring a reusable bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Small Local Currency (IDR): Useful for purchasing snacks, drinks, or unique souvenirs at local markets and shops.
Make the Most of Your Stay in Lembeh
So, what’s calling you first? A beach day with your feet in the sand? A walk through the rainforest to meet the tiniest monkey? Or maybe a trip to the highlands for cooler air? Whatever you’re in the mood for, Lembeh has it ready, and we’re here to make it all happen.
At Solitude Lembeh Resort, we ensure the care and comfort you feel after a dive carries through to every part of your stay, including our land tours. After a morning exploring the highlands, a village, or a forest trail, you’ll return to a freshly prepared meal, a cool drink, and plenty of time to relax. You can rest by the sea, sort through your photos in peace, or chat with our team about what to do next.
Book your stay at Solitude Lembeh Resort and enjoy a land and sea experience that feels easy, personal, and full of unforgettable memories!