Birding in Sulawesi

Find information about the top birdwatching sites in Sulawesi

Sulawesi has the highest percentage of endemic birds of any island in the world. The birding in many places is also easy, and almost all the endemic species can be seen at a small number of sites in the centre and north. For those looking for more adventure (and more birds!) the islands off the north of Sulawesi (Sangihe, Talaud, Siau) are also packed with goodies, as are the islands to the east (Banggai, Peleng). If thats not enough to tempt you, it also has great beaches and world class diving.

Browse sites from the map or the table. Each site page will show links to birding trip reports, guides and other content that is relevant. Help us keep this information up to date by posting your experiences back here as comments.

Browse sites by location:

SiteWhat's there?
TangkokoEasy access and a great introduction to Sulawesi's birds.
Dumoga-Bone (Bogani)A massive national park which has only partially been explored. Known sites include Tambun for Maleo and some nice lowland birding.
Lore LinduHuge national park in central Sulawesi and the best site for easily accessed montane endemics.
Sangihe, Taluad, SiauThe string of islands off north Sulawesi including Sangihe, Siau and Talaud are not so easy to get to, but loads of great endemics await those who try it.
Around MakassarAn endemic white-eye and some good migrant shorebirds can be found by those with a few hours to kill between flights.
Gunung AmbangMontane birding in north Sulawesi. Not as many species as Lore Lindu, but a few things are easier to see here.
Gunung MahawuJust outside Manado and a great spot for Scaly Kingfisher.
NantuFamous as a site to see Babirusa, but also pretty good for birding too
BanggaiA nice selection of Sula endemics after a short boat ride from Luwuk, including the newly rediscovered Banggai Crow.
Lake TondanoNear Manado and good for waterbirds and migrant raptors

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