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SOQ destination photo
MDC destination photo

SOQMDC

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior perspective of the Raja Ampat archipelago shortly after departure and provides a front-row seat to the iconic volcanic peaks and coral reefs of Manado during arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Batanta Island

Aerial views of the rugged, jungle-covered ridges of one of Raja Ampat's four main islands.

🌋

Halmahera Volcanoes

Distant sightings of the active volcanic peaks of North Halmahera across the Molucca Sea.

🐚

Bunaken Marine Park

The striking transition from deep blue ocean to shallow turquoise coral reefs surrounding Bunaken Island.

🗻

Manado Tua

An incredible close-up of the dormant, perfectly conical volcanic island rising 800 meters from the sea.

🏙️

Manado Bay

A sweeping view of the North Sulawesi coastline and the city's urban sprawl against the mountains.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to capture the iconic Manado Tua volcano without obstruction. On morning flights, the sun is behind you on this side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the coral reefs and volcanic slopes.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏝️

Waigeo Island

The largest of the 'Four Kings,' featuring intricate limestone karst formations and deep blue bays.

🌊

Halmahera Sea

Vast stretches of pristine ocean punctuated by remote, uninhabited tropical islets.

⛰️

Mt. Klabat

The highest peak in North Sulawesi, dominating the landscape to the east as you descend into Manado.

⛴️

Bitung Harbor

Views of the busy shipping lanes and the narrow Lembeh Strait, famous for its rare marine life.

This side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Celebes Sea. Keep an eye out for Mt. Klabat during the final approach, as it serves as a massive landmark for the airport's location.

Top Activities in Manado
Route Information

Distance: 758 km (471 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min

Departure: SOQ (-0.894, 131.287)

Arrival: MDC (1.5492600202560425, 124.9260025024414)

Route Type: Domestic

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