Lore Lindu National Park — Attraction in Central Sulawesi

Part 1 We went to Lore Lindu 1 week ago (Sept 2023) for a 5d4N trip and would like to share our thoughts and comment for other travelers. There are awfully little information on the internet written in English for organizing a private tour. We spent lots of time trying to organise a trip that is reasonably priced. For those wanting to plan the trip themselves, a detailed map of Lore Lindu can be found in the book- "Sulawesi" by Periplus Travel Guides. Although the version we borrowed from our local library is the 2003 version, it contains a reasonably detailed map of Lore Lindu, much better than Lonely Planet for this part of Indonesia.

Thanks for the latest review in TripAdvisor, we contacted the WA no. of Palu Lore Lindu Park Office, the officer there actually has been super helpful, he gave us 4-5 guides contact no. Unfortunately all the guides the Officier gave us have quoted us a price that is way over our budget for a 5D4N all inclusive tour for 2 people (car, 1 driver, 1 guide, entrance, full board with homestay). The price they quoted start from 1200usd to way over 2000usd. Despite the price variations, they all use the same lodgings (both Besoa and Bada has a limited amount of homestays, according to our guide- Besoa Valley has 2, Bada Valley has 3, these homestays are of similar qualities so it shouldn't be a huge price difference among the homestays). Perhaps the car is better or the guide is more professional?? I still could not make out the huge price variations given of the same itinerary.

Our 5D4N itinerary is like this, we started from Palu - Besoa valley 2 nights stay - Tentena 1 night -Bada Valley 1night - Tentena.

This itinerary was recommended by a couple of guides we contacted. To us, after visiting both Valleys, we think we would better off skip Besoa if one s main interest is to see some megaliths (not all) and some bird watching (in particular the hornbills). Reasons for this is (see part 2 at TripAdvisor, google review has limitation of word counts)

photos of Tembing lake, the rainbow tree nearby room condition, dinning area at the concrete shed and food from homestay of Besoa map...

Lore Lindu National Park is a nature lover's paradise located in the heart of Sulawesi Island in Indonesia. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the babirusa and anoa. Visitors can explore the park on foot, with a range of hiking trails catering to different fitness levels. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are also scenic drives and picnic spots dotted throughout the park.

One of the highlights of Lore Lindu National Park is its rich cultural heritage. The park is home to several indigenous communities, including the Bada, Besoa, and Napu people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life through various cultural tours and homestays. This provides a unique opportunity to experience authentic local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the park's history and significance.

For those seeking adventure, Lore Lindu National Park has plenty to offer. The park boasts several challenging hiking trails, including the climb to the summit of Mount Rorekatimbu. There are also opportunities for birdwatching, with over 200 bird species recorded in the park. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Lore Lindu National Park is definitely...

Lore Lindu National Park is truly a hidden gem and a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers. With its breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, the park offers a remarkable experience for those seeking a connection with nature. The park's rich biodiversity, including endemic species and rare flora, makes it a paradise for wildlife lovers and...