SOUTH SULAWESI
Makassar – Bira – Sengkang – Pare pare – Toraja
Bajau people – Tempe lake – Sengkang. South Sulawesi
South Sulawesi is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditional communities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. The region is a blend of rugged highlands, serene beaches, and bustling port towns, making it a must-visit for those seeking cultural immersion and scenic adventures. Here are some highlights and popular destinations in South Sulawesi:
1. Makassar (Ujung Pandang)
- Fort Rotterdam: A well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fort with historical exhibitions and a cultural museum, Fort Rotterdam offers insight into South Sulawesi’s history and culture.
- Losari Beach: A popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy sunsets, with food stalls, cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Paotere Harbor: A traditional port where visitors can see colorful phinisi boats, which are emblematic of the region’s seafaring heritage.
2. Tana Toraja
- Known for its unique funeral customs and elaborate burial sites, Tana Toraja is one of Indonesia’s most culturally rich regions.
- Kete Kesu Village: This traditional village features Torajan houses, or tongkonan, and unique burial sites on cliff faces and in caves.
- Londa and Lemo Cliff Graves: Visitors can see the iconic tau-tau wooden effigies representing the deceased.
- Bori Kalimbuang: A ceremonial site with megalith stones, where rituals for the Torajan community are performed.
3. Bira Beach
- A scenic, white-sand beach perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
- Liukang and Kambing Islands: Nearby islands accessible by boat, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
- Boat-Building Villages: The local boat-building tradition has produced phinisi ships for centuries, and visitors can observe these craftsmen at work.
4. Rammang-Rammang Karst
- Located in Maros, this limestone karst landscape is filled with impressive rock formations, caves, and lagoons.
- Visitors can take a boat ride through the Pute River to explore the karst landscape, and visit prehistoric caves with ancient rock art.
5. Malino Highlands
- Located in the Gowa Regency, Malino Highlands is a scenic hill town popular for its cool climate, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
- Lembah Biru Waterfall and Takapala Waterfall are popular spots for nature lovers looking to unwind amidst lush greenery.
6. Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park
- Known as “The Kingdom of Butterflies,” the park is home to hundreds of butterfly species.
- It also features limestone hills, caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails, making it a beautiful spot for ecotourism.
7. Sengkang
- Nestled in South Sulawesi’s Wajo Regency, Sengkang is known for its serene Lake Tempe (Danau Tempe), a vast, shallow lake surrounded by floating houses and bustling with traditional fishing life. Visitors can explore the floating village, experience the local Bugis culture, and witness stunning sunsets. Sengkang is also known for its silk-weaving industry; visiting a traditional weaving center offers insight into the craftsmanship behind Bugis silk.
8. Parepare
- As a coastal city located along the western coast of South Sulawesi, Parepare is an ideal stop for visitors traveling between Makassar and Tana Toraja. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, scenic views, and picturesque hills along the coast. Parepare also holds historical significance as the birthplace of former Indonesian president B.J. Habibie, and you can visit a monument dedicated to him.
9. Ammatowa
- This traditional village in the Kajang District is a unique cultural destination, home to the Kajang tribe. The Ammatowa people have preserved a traditional way of life deeply rooted in simplicity and environmental stewardship, which visitors can experience firsthand. The village operates on customary laws and practices, and visitors are expected to dress in black and respect their way of life. This area is excellent for those interested in cultural tourism and experiencing a community dedicated to traditional values.
10. Tana Beru
Tanah Beru –a village full with Pinisi boat builders. Most boats are of the type “Pinisi” within built in traditional way. Most of the materials are made of wooden . Many of Pinisi live -aboard cruise built in this area.
South Sulawesi (Sulawesi Selatan) is a province of Indonesia, located on the western southern peninsula of Sulawesi island. The province is bordered by Central Sulawesi province to the north, South East Sulawesi province to the east and West Sulawesi province to the west (West Sulawesi province was split from South Sulawesi in 2004). The capital of South Sulawesi is Makassar.
How to get there – South Sulawesi with the capital city is Makassar is the biggest city in Sulawesi Island, located in the heart of Indonesia, made Makassar most accessable city in Indonesia. This city is reachable by Air and by sea.
Domestic – Sultan Hasanudin International aiport in Makassar – South Sulawesi is reachable by domestic flights such as : Lion air, Batik air, Garuda Indonesia, Citilink Indonesia,Wings Air
International – Booking your ticket to Indonesia within destination to the cities such as : Jakarta – Denpasar then conect your flights journey by domestic flights to Makassar – South Sulawesi : Air asia, Garuda Indonesia Airlines, Scots Air
Sultan Hasanudin International Airport – South Sulawesi
Palawa traditional village – Toraja, South Sulawesi
Pinisi builder, Tanah Beru, South Sulawesi-by Ricard Buxo.
Ramang ramang village, South Sulawesi
Bara beach- Tanjung Bira, South Sulawesi
Bantimurung National Park – South Sulawesi
Quotes :
- We are happy to create a holiday or adventure trip in South Sulawesi according to your needs and budget.
- Do not hesitated to get more information, through our contact form below