Manado, a captivating city in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is renowned for its exceptional diving spots, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity. To make the most of your visit to Manado, timing is crucial. The ideal period to explore this tropical paradise is during the dry season, which spans from May to October. During these months, you can expect minimal rainfall, maximizing your chances for outdoor activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and enjoying the city's natural parks without interruption from the weather. Additionally, the sea conditions are generally calmer, visibility underwater is excellent, and the overall weather is comfortable with temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F), which is perfect for both land exploration and water-based escapades.
If you're particularly interested in diving, the months of July and August stand out as the peak time for underwater adventures, when the water temperatures are ideal and you're most likely to encounter a plethora of sea life, including the possibility of spotting the migrating whales and dolphins. It's worth noting though, that while this period may offer the best conditions, it is also the tourist high season, which means popular sites can be crowded and prices may be higher. For those who prefer a more tranquil experience or are looking to avoid the crowds, visiting during the shoulder months of May or October can be a strategic choice—still providing excellent weather conditions but with fewer tourists and potentially lower costs for accommodations and tours.
| Month | Min Temp | Max Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 24 °c | 30 °c |
| February | 24 °c | 30 °c |
| March | 24 °c | 31 °c |
| April | 24 °c | 31 °c |
| May | 24 °c | 31 °c |
| June | NA | 30 °c |
| July | 23 °c | 30 °c |
| August | 23 °c | 30 °c |
| September | 23 °c | 31 °c |
| October | 24 °c | 31 °c |
| November | 24 °c | 31 °c |
| December | 24 °c | 31 °c |
