Mount Mahawu

Mount Mahawu is an active stratovolcano (1,324 m) located east of Tomohon City in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is known for its accessible crater rim, small green crater lake, and panoramic views over Tomohon, Manado, Bunaken Island and neighboring Mount Lokon. A paved road leads near the summit followed by a short stair climb, making it one of the most accessible volcano hikes in North Sulawesi for visitors.

Visitors can expect a short drive from central Tomohon to a parking area near the summit, then a climb of about 300 concrete steps to the crater rim. The broad crater is about 180 meters wide and contains a small greenish crater lake with steaming fumaroles. From the rim there are 360-degree views of the Tomohon valley, Mount Lokon, Mount Klabat and on clear days the Manado coastline and Bunaken Island. The summit area is open, windy and often misty with a paved viewing path along the rim.

Mount Mahawu is an active stratovolcano forming part of the Lokon-Mahawu volcanic complex in the Minahasa region. Recorded eruptions include 1789, 1869 and the most recent small explosive eruption in 1977 that produced ash and minor activity from the crater. It remains monitored as an active volcano.

Located in the Minahasa Highlands, Mount Mahawu is a well-known natural landmark and recreational area for residents of Tomohon and Manado, valued for its scenery, hiking and views over the highland landscape.