Whale sharks naturally migrate through Tomini Bay along Gorontalo’s southern coastline. In
2016, a shrimp factory discarded shrimp shells into the ocean, attracting whale sharks.
Increased sightings, fueled by social media posts, led to mass tourism, prompting the
Gorontalo provincial government to regulate the site for conservation and safety.
Now, Botubarani village manages the site with floating ropes restricting boat
engines. Visitors reach the area by outrigger canoes, and villagers offer small amounts of
shrimp, similar to feeding birds with seeds. Whale sharks are not caged and continue their
migration. Studies show individuals travel as far as the Philippines and South Sulawesi.
For divers who prefer not to visit Botubarani, Gorontalo offers over 30 spectacular
dive sites with no obligation to dive with whale sharks.

Yes. A valid scuba certification is required to dive with us.

Advance booking is highly recommended to arrange tanks, staff, and lunch (for three-dive
days). Sometimes, we are fully booked.

Discover our typical dive schedule here.

Gorontalo’s dynamic weather makes advance scheduling unwise. We assess winds, waves,
currents, and visibility, then match sites to divers’ skills and interests for an optimal diving
experience.

Yes! Please provide your sizes in advance to ensure proper fit.

Our team includes five full-time PADI-trained dive masters. Dive boats carry oxygen and
first-aid kits, and our staff are trained in emergency procedures specific to Gorontalo diving
conditions.

Address:

Jalan Yos Sudarso No 218A, Kec. Hulonthalangi, Kota Gorontalo, Indonesia 96133
Our Google Maps location is slightly off. Look for the huge dive flag painted on our
building!

Yes! Unlike other operators, Miguel’s Diving includes a speedboat in all seasonal dives,
even for solo divers. Offseason diving is limited to beach dives at a lower price.

Popular options include:

 Benteng Otanaha – 16th-century Portuguese forts overlooking Lake Limboto
 Lombongo Hot Springs – A relaxing dip in a natural thermal pool
 Morning fish market – Just past the dive center, best visited early
 Maleo Hatchery & National Park – Wildlife spotting, waterfalls, and endemic species
 Nantu Nature Reserve – A remote trek to see endemic Babirusa, which requires advance permission.

[Search our blog for more tips.]

Find out here and design your adventure!

We primarily offer scuba diving. However, please send us your inquiry, and we will check available options.

Yes! Feel free to book independently, but we recommend asking us for tips on
accommodations that match your needs.

Non-divers may join the dive boat and snorkel when conditions permit. However, scuba divers determine dive sites, and all passengers must know how to swim.

Gorontalo’s ocean temperatures range between 28–30°C (82–86°F), ensuring a warm and comfortable dive experience year-round.

Find our terms and conditions here