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GTO destination photo
MDC destination photo

GTOMDC

Which side of the plane to sit from Jalaluddin Airport (Gorontalo) to Sam Ratulangi Airport (Manado)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular view of North Sulawesi's volcanic spine, including active peaks, the sprawling Lake Tondano, and the lush Minahasa highlands.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Minahasa Highlands

A continuous chain of emerald-green mountains and ridges forming the peninsula's backbone.

🌋

Mount Soputan

One of Sulawesi's most active volcanoes, often seen venting steam against the skyline.

💧

Lake Tondano

A massive, picturesque highland crater lake surrounded by rice paddies and small villages.

🔥

Mount Lokon

The smoking twin peaks of Lokon and Empung, towering over the nearby highland plateaus.

🏙️

Tomohon City

A bird's-eye view of the 'City of Flowers' nestled in the cool valley between volcanic peaks.

The right side is best for afternoon flights when the sun illuminates the volcanic peaks. For the best photos of Lake Tondano, look out about 15 minutes before landing. Clouds often gather over the peaks by midday, so early morning flights offer the clearest geological views.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Celebes Sea

Expansive views of the deep blue waters of the Sulawesi Sea throughout the flight.

🏝️

Coastal Reefs

Intricate turquoise coral reef systems visible along the rugged northern coastline.

🌋

Manado Tua

A striking, perfectly symmetrical volcanic island visible during the final descent into Manado.

🚤

Bunaken Marine Park

Aerial perspective of the world-renowned marine protected area and its surrounding deep drop-offs.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of flight for a clear view of the iconic Manado Tua volcano rising from the sea.

Top Activities in Manado
Route Information

Distance: 252 km (157 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: GTO (0.6371189951899999, 122.849998474)

Arrival: MDC (1.5492600202560425, 124.9260025024414)

Route Type: Domestic

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