About Botubarani Whale Sharks
Botubarani Whale Sharks is a marine wildlife tourism site in Botubarani Village, Kabila Bone District, Bone Bolango Regency, Gorontalo Province, Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is notable for seasonal and near year-round appearances of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) near traditional lift-net fishing platforms (bagan) in Tomini Bay. Developed as community-based ecotourism since around 2016, it offers boat-based snorkeling and wildlife watching about 15 km from Gorontalo City.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a boat trip from Botubarani Beach to offshore bagan platforms where whale sharks often gather to feed on small shrimp. The setting is a coastal village beach with calm bay waters, small wooden boats, and open sea views. Activities are centered on observing whale sharks from the boat or snorkeling nearby with guides, photography, and sunrise views over Tomini Bay. Facilities are basic and village-managed.
Key highlights
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Close observation of whale sharks in their natural habitat in Tomini Bay
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Snorkeling and boat-based wildlife watching near traditional bagan platforms
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Early morning boat tours with sunrise views
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Community-managed ecotourism experience with local guides
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Calm waters suitable for photography and guided snorkeling