Panorama Backpackers

Fishing with Sylvia for a whole afternoon was a highlight. She taught me how to catch tuna, then cooked different kinds of fish we'd just caught so I could try them straight away. The hosts are the best, and the dive instructors are well trained too. My room was comfortable, with a nice bathroom, and the three meals each day were amazing. For a week on Bunaken, this was just perfect for me.

I've been to Panorama Backpackers twice now, and I'll be back. Under 20€ per person gets you a room and three meals a day, so I think the value is amazing. The rooms are clean, the food is great, and the Homestay staff are really welcoming. I also loved the beach bar in the evening, whether for a sunset beer, music, a chat with friends, or listening to the owner sing karaoke. They can arrange whale and dolphin tours or fishing trips. I tried the whale and fishing trips, and being out at sea looking for whales or catching tuna was an amazing experience. For me, Backpackers is the place to stay on Bunaken. Huge thanks to Sylvia, her family, and the staff for all their hard work.

The diving made our five nights at Panorama Backpackers on Bunaken especially memorable. I finished my Open Water certification there, and Ronny and the dive crew were patient, professional, and passionate. We felt safe and well looked after throughout the course. The marine life is incredible, from turtles and colorful coral walls to lots of fish, and even snorkeling off the beach was great. Our bungalow was simple but clean and cozy, with a fan, mosquito net, and a nice balcony looking out to sea. Three generous, fresh meals were included each day, with plenty of variety. We especially liked the vegetarian choices and eating family-style, which made it easy to meet other travelers. The whole place has a warm, relaxed, social feel. The staff made us feel welcome as soon as we arrived and did a lot to make sure we were comfortable. We loved sharing meals and watching the sunset from the beach bar, and it felt like being part of a community. A wonderful five-night stay, and a great place to do Open Water.

We had some lovely days here, snorkeling on the beautiful house reef, and some of us went on dive trips with great instructors. The rooms are cozy, and the food was delicious, plentiful, and different each day. They also sorted out a scooter for us and a boat ride back to the mainland. A real gem of a Homestay on Bunaken.