Manado isn’t just about diving and snorkeling; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch. Whether you want to dine on a pristine island, indulge in a local buffet, or combine a meal with an exhilarating activity, Manado offers a variety of options. Many of these tours stand out for their natural beauty, unique experiences, and authentic flavors. We particularly like the Lihaga Island swimming trip for its crystal-clear waters and picture-perfect setting—plus, it includes two swims and a hearty lunch. If underwater adventures are your thing, the Bunaken Island snorkeling tour offers vibrant marine life alongside a tasty meal. For a more active day, try paragliding combined with a visit to Tangkoko Nature Park for a mix of adrenaline and wildlife spotting.
If you want a comprehensive experience, a private city and mountain tour with lunch provides a relaxed way to see the sights and taste local cuisine. For those seeking adventure, white-water rafting on the Timbukar River is both thrilling and well-organized, with an included meal to finish the day. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these tours to help you pick the perfect lunch experience in Manado.
1. Lihaga Island swimming twice, including lunch and tickets
At number 1 on our list, the Lihaga Island swimming trip offers a stunning getaway with two swims in the calm, clear waters of a white sand island. The tour lasts about six hours and includes a delicious lunch, making it a perfect half-day escape from the bustling city. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to snorkel in some of the most beautiful underwater scenery that rivals Bunaken Marine Park. The island itself is uninhabited but provides well-maintained toilets, changing rooms, and large wooden structures—ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The highlight is the chance to swim twice in a pristine environment, surrounded by vibrant corals and tropical fish. The natural beauty of Lihaga makes it a favorite for travelers wanting a peaceful, picture-perfect lunch spot. The inclusion of tickets and the relaxed pace make this an excellent value for those seeking a scenic, tranquil day. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0 rating, and travelers praise the snorkeling and the well-organized logistics.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those eager to combine a scenic island picnic with snorkeling, all in a setting that’s less crowded than Bunaken but equally stunning.
2. Bunaken Island three-point snorkeling includes lunch and shuttle
At number 2, the Bunaken Island snorkeling tour is a must-do for marine life enthusiasts. Traveling by speedboat from Manado, you’ll reach Bunaken’s marine park—home to an astonishing diversity of fish and coral. This trip includes three different snorkeling spots, allowing you to explore a variety of underwater environments. After your aquatic adventures, a hearty lunch is served on the island, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the vibrant marine ecosystem just seen beneath the surface.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on three different snorkeling sites in just six hours, maximizing your chance to see the best of Bunaken’s underwater world. It’s rated 5 stars based on one review, which highlights the high biodiversity and the professionalism of the crew. The tour is well-suited for snorkelers of all levels and is an excellent value at $110 per person, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and shuttle service.
Bottom line: This trip is ideal if you want a comprehensive snorkeling experience paired with a satisfying local meal, perfect for underwater lovers.
$110.00 per person
3. Paragliding and Rafting including lunch and pickup
For those craving adrenaline, number 3 combines paragliding over Mount Tumpa with white-water rafting on the Nimanga River. This tour lasts around five hours and includes lunch and hotel pickup. You’ll start with a scenic 8-10 minute paragliding flight that offers sweeping views of Bunaken, Nain, and Siladen islands—an unforgettable photo op. Then, after a quick transfer, you’ll experience the thrill of rafting, navigating Class II and III rapids amid lush jungle scenery.
The tour is highly rated, thanks to its professional guides who speak English and Chinese, ensuring a smooth and memorable adventure. The highlight is the combination of aerial view and river adrenaline, making it perfect for active travelers who want to do more than just eat. The cost is $225, reflecting the inclusive nature and quality of the experience.
Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice for adventure-seekers wanting a full day of excitement with an included lunch to recharge afterward.
$225.00 per person
4. Paragliding and Tangkoko Natural Tourist Park include lunch
Number 4 offers another adrenaline-filled combo—paragliding with a visit to Tangkoko National Park. This tour lasts around five hours and features breathtaking views of Bunaken and Siladen islands from above, followed by wildlife encounters at Tangkoko. The park is home to rare endemic species like the tiny tarsier, which is a must-see.
The tour blends scenic flight with wildlife spotting, making it ideal for nature lovers who also crave excitement. The guide’s local knowledge makes the wildlife viewing even richer. The price is $227, which includes lunch, making this a worthwhile mix of high-altitude thrill and jungle exploration. Reviews mention the unforgettable views and the knowledgeable guides, reinforcing its appeal for curious travelers.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a mix of adventure and wildlife, with a scenic flight and a chance to see rare animals.
$227.00 per person
5. Private tour of Manado and Tomohon including lunch and driver
Number 5 is a comprehensive private tour that covers both the city of Manado and the cooler mountain town of Tomohon. It includes visits to the Christ Blessing statue and Mount Mahawu, with a local lunch included. This tour is more laid-back, offering insight into the region’s culture and natural beauty without the rush.
Rated 4.5 stars, travelers appreciate the flexible itinerary and the professional guides who speak English and Chinese. The visit to the Christ Blessing statue alone is impressive, standing 50 meters tall and being a local icon. The dining option lets you enjoy authentic local flavors, making this a good value at $90 per person. It’s best suited for visitors wanting a relaxed day with cultural insights and scenic views.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, cultural experience with good food, without the high activity level.
6. Tangkoko Bitung Manado Nature Tourism Park includes lunch
Number 6 takes you into Tangkoko National Park, about an hour from Manado. This tour is about wildlife and nature, highlighting the endemic tarsier and other protected species. The park is home to 47 rare animals, and the guided walking tour is informative. The highlight is spotting the tiny, nocturnal tarsier, which is the world’s smallest mammal.
Rated 4 stars, travelers enjoy the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see unique wildlife. The tour lasts 5-6 hours and includes lunch, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts. The price is $97, offering a balanced mix of activity and local cuisine. This tour is perfect for those looking to experience North Sulawesi’s biodiversity firsthand.
Bottom line: Best suited for wildlife lovers who want a guided walk through a protected rainforest with a local meal.
7. Manado Timbukar white water rafting includes pick up, drop off and lunch
Rounding out our list, the Timbukar white water rafting on the Nimanga River is a fun, active way to enjoy the outdoors. It lasts about six hours and includes all logistics, with an energetic ride through Class II and III rapids. Afterward, you get a well-organized lunch and a chance to relax post-adventure.
Rated 4 stars, travelers mention the lively river and smooth organization. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a memorable day out, with a price of $85 per person offering good value considering the included transport and meal. The trip’s highlight is the exciting rapids combined with scenic jungle views.
Bottom line: Best for adventure lovers on a budget who want a fun, organized rafting experience with a satisfying meal.
$85.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Manado
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience appeals most. Are you an underwater enthusiast? The Bunaken snorkeling tour offers a chance to see an incredible marine ecosystem. Prefer relaxing island scenery? The Lihaga Island trip provides stunning vistas and a peaceful lunch spot. For thrill-seekers, combining paragliding and rafting or rafting and wildlife spotting delivers adventure and excitement. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the private city and mountain tour or the Tangkoko Nature Park visit, both offering rich local culture and wildlife.
Think about your fitness level and interests. If you love wildlife, the Tangkoko tour and Tangkoko National Park are excellent choices. If you want a full day of adrenaline, the paragliding and rafting combo can’t be beaten. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular trips like Bunaken or Tangkoko, which fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Manado is a fantastic destination for combining culinary delights with natural beauty and adventure. Whether you prefer a quiet island lunch, an active day of water sports, or a wildlife safari, there’s something for every taste. The Lihaga Island swimming trip and Bunaken snorkeling tour are top choices for marine lovers, while adrenaline junkies will appreciate the paragliding and rafting options. For a more cultural and relaxed experience, the private city and mountain tour provides a deep dive into local life.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead guarantees your spot in these popular tours. Manado’s diverse lunch experiences promise memorable moments and delicious flavors—so pick your adventure and enjoy every bite and splash.