Majene

Majene is the capital of Majene Regency in West Sulawesi, located on the Makassar Strait coast about 60 km north of Mamuju. The town sits at the base of a mountainous peninsula and is known for its scenic coastal views, traditional Mandar culture, and as a transit point for travellers along the Trans-Sulawesi highway between South and West Sulawesi.

The Mandar people, who inhabit this region, have a strong maritime tradition and are known for their handwoven silk sarongs (lipa' sabbe). Majene is a quiet administrative town surrounded by rice paddies, coconut plantations, and fishing villages.

The climate is tropical with a dry season June–October.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Tampa Padang Airport (MJU) in Mamuju, about 60 km north (1 hour by car).

By Car / Road

From Makassar, it's about 6 hours north via the Trans-Sulawesi highway. From Mamuju, it's 1 hour south.

Majene is walkable. Ojek and becak are available.

• Mandar Weaving Villages: Visit traditional weaving communities where lipa' sabbe silk sarongs are handwoven.

• Makassar Strait Coastline: Scenic coastal views and sunsets.

• Traditional Mandar Houses: Distinctive Mandar architecture with high peaked roofs.

• Weaving Demonstration: Watch Mandar women create traditional lipa' sabbe silk sarongs.

• Sunset at the Strait: The coast offers beautiful sunset views.

• Coastal Walks: Stroll along the beach and harbour areas.

Warung serving Mandar and Buginese cuisine. Fresh seafood is abundant.

Bottled water is essential. Sweet tea and coffee are available at local warung.

Basic hotels (Rp 100,000–200,000/night).

Lipa' sabbe silk sarongs — the iconic Mandar textile. Available at weaving villages around Majene.

• Mamuju: 60 km north — the capital of West Sulawesi.
• Polewali: 40 km south — another Mandar cultural centre.
• Makassar: 6 hours south — the South Sulawesi capital.