The crater lake
Green and turquoise.
WhiteducksIG — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Papimac — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jacob Mojiwat — CC BY 2.0 · Jacob Mojiwat — CC BY 2.0
A volcano in the Tomohon highlands, one of Indonesia's easiest to climb, since cars reach near the top, followed by a short stairway of about fifteen minutes to the rim of a wide crater whose floor turns green and turquoise when it fills with water, with steam sometimes rising. From the rim you can walk around the crater on a narrow path, with wide views over the Minahasa highlands, Tomohon town and the neighbouring Lokon volcano, and on clear days as far as the sea and Manado. The air is cool and fresh, and mist can wrap the crater suddenly. There is a token fee at the entrance. The lake's colour changes with the season and volcanic activity, and it sometimes dries out. Come in the morning before the mist, with a light jacket. Combine it with Tomohon's flower market and Lake Tondano, and check the volcano's status before climbing.
Green and turquoise.
Drive near the top.
As far as the sea.
Tomohon, about an hour south of Manado
No, a short stairway suits most people; the rim walk is narrow and needs care, especially with children.