Sulawesi Birdwatching

Overview

Gorontalo
Nestled on the enchanting island of Sulawesi in eastern Indonesia, Gorontalo lies along the tranquil northern shoreline of Tomini Bay. This serene location offers a perfect escape, characterized by its rolling landscapes and balmy, equatorial climate. The area is rich in natural beauty, where lush green hills meet the azure waters of the bay.
 
The local population primarily consists of the Gorontalo ethnic group, who speak their own traditional language and possess a vibrant cultural heritage. As the principal gateway to the breathtaking diving spots of the Togean Islands, Gorontalo is accessible via a one-hour flight from Manado or an adventurous nine-hour drive that showcases the island's stunning scenery. Visitors will find a wealth of natural wonders in Gorontalo, from rare endemic fauna in its verdant forests to the unparalleled underwater beauty of the Togean Islands.
 
Nantu Forest
Located in the heart of the Wallacea region within Gorontalo Province, Nantu Forest is a remarkable ecosystem that serves as a bridge between the rich biodiversity of Asia and Australia. This unique area is named after the esteemed British naturalist and biologist Alfred Russel Wallace, who first identified its significance in the 19th century. Spanning over 62,000 hectares, Nantu Forest encompasses the Nantu Wildlife Reserve (33,023 ha), Protected Forest (19,606 ha), and Production Forest (10,002 ha).
 
This forest is not only a sanctuary for a diverse array of species but also vital for the local community, which comprises around 30,000 residents living in the Nantu and Paguyaman river watersheds. They rely completely on these rivers for their water supply, highlighting the forest's role as an essential resource. The carbon stored within Nantu is priceless; if the dense canopy were ever cleared, it could unleash a staggering 50 million tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere. 
 
Nantu Forest is particularly renowned for being one of the few places in the world where the elusive Babyrousa Celebensis, an extraordinary endemic species, can be reliably observed. Its unique wildlife and invaluable ecological contributions make Nantu a critical area for conservation and a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Babi Rusa
The Babirusa, often referred to as the “deer pig,” holds the title of the most iconic animal of Sulawesi. This unique creature is particularly noted for its striking tusks, which protrude dramatically from its low-slung, sausage-shaped body. These two large tusks can grow long enough to break through the ashy-grey skin of the snout, curling back towards the eyes in a captivating display. The precise role of these tusks has long fascinated researchers, yet it remains somewhat of an enigma. Contrary to earlier beliefs that they are primarily for use in combat against rival males, babirusas engage in a different form of competition. During mating season, males will rise on their hind legs and engage in a jousting-like display using their forelimbs rather than their tusks. However, the wear and tear on many tusks suggest they have a practical purpose, perhaps serving as a display of strength and virility to attract potential mates. While females possess normal canine teeth, they may be drawn to males with the most impressive tusks.

Though classified among the pig family, babirusas exhibit distinctive behaviors that set them apart. Unlike typical pigs that root through the soil for food, babirusas prefer foraging for fallen fruit, showcasing their unique dietary habits. They also tend to have smaller litters, usually comprising only two piglets. In addition to their foraging, babirusas are known to seek out salt licks, essential for obtaining dietary minerals, which may contribute to their overall health and vitality. While traditionally thought to be solitary creatures, babirusas have been observed congregating at salt licks and mud wallows, sometimes gathering in groups of up to 44 individuals. Although predominantly nocturnal, they can also be seen during daylight hours, adding to their intriguing behavioral patterns.

Today, the babirusa is classified as one of the most endangered species in Sulawesi. A combination of slow reproductive rates, relentless hunting pressures, and significant habitat loss has created a perfect storm threatening their survival, leading to fears of eventual extinction. Once widely distributed across North Sulawesi, substantial populations of babirusas are now confined primarily to the Nantu Reserve, located in Gorontalo and the surrounding Paguyaman River drainage area.

Itinerary

Babirusa Endemic Tour 5D/4N – Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Gorontalo (D)
Upon your arrival in Gorontalo, you will check into your hotel to unwind and refresh. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic regional cuisine and immerse yourself in the culture of the area.

Day 02: Gorontalo to Adudu Nantu Forest (B, L, D)
After a hearty breakfast starting at 7 AM, check out of your hotel at 8 AM for a scenic drive towards Nantu, which will take approximately four hours. To ensure you have sufficient energy for the adventure ahead, a lunch box will be provided for you, or we may stop at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival, you will experience the hospitality of the village as you settle into your homestay for the night, followed by a traditional dinner.

Day 03: Deer-Pig Observation, Babirusa (Babyroussa celebensis) (B, L, D)
Following breakfast at the homestay, we'll embark on our day of exploration. Departing at 7 AM sharp, we’ll trek 40 minutes to the Nantu Forest where the ranger station awaits. After checking in, we'll continue for an additional 20 minutes to reach the designated “hide” observation point, offering a prime location for observing the babirusas in their natural habitat. Lunch will be provided at the camping ground or ranger station, allowing for a mid-day break. In the afternoon, we'll return to the forest for another opportunity to view these magnificent animals. The night will be spent in the homestay, with dinner featuring local delicacies.

Day 04: Continued Deer-Pig Observation, Babirusa (B, L, D)
The day will begin with breakfast at the homestay, followed by another early start at 7 AM. We will once again trek to the ranger station to check in before heading to the observation point. After a fulfilling day of wildlife viewing, we’ll gather for lunch at the ranger station and enjoy more exploration. By approximately 3 PM, we will make our way back to the homestay for a refreshing shower before embarking on a leisurely four-hour drive back to Gorontalo, expecting to arrive around 9 PM. Dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant, where you can relax after a fulfilling day.

Day 05: Departure from Gorontalo (B)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey to your next destination. This marks the end of our services, leaving you with cherished memories of your encounters with the remarkable Babirusa and the breathtaking landscapes of Sulawesi. 
 
Price US$ 850 per person, min 2 persons traveling together