Where do I catch the bus?

You can catch a shared minibus at Karombasan Terminal.

It is safe but winding; drive with caution.

Are there hotels in Tondano?

Yes, there are several hotels and resorts near the lake.

Can I fly to Tondano?

No, there is no airport in Tondano.

Manado

Tondano

Bus Driving

Manado to Tondano

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Manado to Tondano covers approximately 35 kilometers through the beautiful highlands of Minahasa. The trip takes about 1.5 hours by car or shared minibus. The route offers stunning views of the mountains and leads to the famous Lake Tondano. It is a popular destination for weekend getaways from Manado. The road is well-paved but features many curves as you ascend into the highlands.

Total Distance: 35 km driving distance, 25 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Private car takes approximately 1 hour.

Cheapest Way

Shared minibus from Karombasan Terminal for 25,000 IDR.

Compare Manado to Tondano Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	1 hour
Avg Price	25,000 IDR	200,000 - 300,000 IDR
Operator	Mikrolet/Shared Minibus	Private Car Rental
Route	Manado-Tondano Highway	Manado-Tondano Highway
Tip	Catch the minibus from Karombasan Terminal.	A private car offers more flexibility for sightseeing along the way.

Travel Tips

Temperature
Tondano is cooler than Manado; bring a light jacket.
Departure Point
Karombasan Terminal is the main hub for transport to Tondano.
Local Food
Try the fresh water fish dishes at restaurants around Lake Tondano.
Best Time to Leave
Travel in the morning to enjoy the lake views before the afternoon fog.
Navigation
Use Google Maps to navigate the winding mountain roads.