Makassar

Makassar is the capital of South Sulawesi and the largest city in eastern Indonesia, with a metropolitan population of over 1.5 million. Situated on the southwest coast of Sulawesi, it is the region's primary port, transport hub, and economic powerhouse. Formerly known as Ujung Pandang (1971–1999), the city is the historic centre of the Gowa Sultanate and has been a crucial trading port for centuries, connecting the spice routes of eastern Indonesia with Java and beyond.

The city is famous for its powerful Buginese and Makassarese seafaring traditions. Fort Rotterdam, a 17th-century Dutch fort built on the site of the Gowa Sultanate's fortress, stands as a reminder of the city's strategic importance. Makassar is also the gateway to the Toraja highlands, the Bira beaches, and the rest of South Sulawesi.

The climate is tropical with temperatures averaging 24–33°C. The dry season (June–October) is the best time to visit. November–April is the wet season.

By Plane

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) is 22 km north of the city centre. It is the second-largest airport in Indonesia after Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta, with flights to all major Indonesian cities and international routes to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and other destinations. Taxis to the city cost approximately Rp 150,000–250,000. Damri airport buses run to the city centre (Rp 30,000).

By Ferry

Makassar's harbour is a major Pelni hub, connecting to nearly every port in eastern Indonesia. Regular ferries serve Java, Kalimantan, Maluku, and Nusa Tenggara.

By Car / Road

The Trans-Sulawesi highway connects Makassar with Toraja (8 hours), Manado (multi-day), and Parepare (3 hours). Buses are the main form of intercity transport.

Angkot (pete-pete) minibuses cover most city routes (Rp 5,000–10,000). Taxis are reasonably priced and metered — Blue Bird and Express taxis are reliable. Ride-hailing apps Gojek and Grab operate extensively. Bentor (motorised becak) are common for short trips. The city centre is walkable around Losari Beach.

• Fort Rotterdam (Benteng Rotterdam): A 17th-century Dutch fort, now housing the La Galigo Museum with exhibits on Buginese and Makassarese history, culture, and maritime heritage. Jl. Pasar Ikan. Entry Rp 10,000.

• Losari Beach (Pantai Losari): Makassar's famous waterfront promenade — the best place for sunset views. Lined with food stalls and cafés.

• Trans Studio Makassar: One of the largest indoor theme parks in Indonesia — a major attraction for families.

• Museum Negeri La Galigo: Located within Fort Rotterdam — extensive collections of artefacts from across Sulawesi.

• Balla Lompoa Museum: The former palace of the Gowa Sultanate in Sungguminasa (15 km south) — royal regalia and historical exhibits.

• Kampong Bulo-Bulo: Traditional boat-building village on the outskirts of the city.

• Makassar Chinese Temple: A striking Chinese temple in the old Chinese quarter.

• Sunset at Losari Beach: The quintessential Makassar experience — join locals watching the sun set over the Makassar Strait.

• Culinary Tour: Makassar is one of Indonesia's great food cities — take a food walk through the night markets.

• Boat Trip to Pulau Kayangan: A small island 30 minutes by boat from Makassar — snorkelling and beach day.

• Sungguminasa Day Trip: Visit the Gowa Sultanate's historic buildings.

• Shopping at Trans Studio Mall: The largest shopping mall in eastern Indonesia.

Makassar is a food paradise:

• Coto Makassar: Rich beef soup with offal, peanuts, and spices — the city's signature dish.
• Pallubasa: Beef in a thick coconut soup with lime and chilli.
• Ikan Bakar: Grilled fish served with dabu-dabu (spicy tomato salsa).
• Pisang Epe: Grilled bananas pressed flat and served with palm sugar syrup.
• Nasi Kuning: Fragrant yellow rice — a breakfast staple.
• RM Seafood Ayu Murni: One of the best seafood restaurants in the city.
• Pasar Malam Losari: Night food stalls along Losari Beach.

Bottled water is standard. Es teh manis (sweet iced tea) is the most common beverage. Es pisang ijo (green banana ice dessert) is a local specialty. Tap water is not drinkable.

• Budget: Losmen in the old town (Rp 100,000–200,000/night), Hotel Kini (Rp 150,000–300,000/night).
• Mid-range: Aston Makassar Hotel (Rp 400,000–700,000/night), Novotel Makassar (Rp 500,000–800,000/night).
• Upscale: The Rinra Makassar (Rp 700,000–1,200,000/night), Claro Hotel Makassar (Rp 500,000–900,000/night).

• Pasar Terong: The largest traditional market in eastern Indonesia — everything from fresh produce to electronics.
• Sasirangan: Traditional tie-dye fabric from South Kalimantan.
• Lipa' Sabbe: Mandar silk sarongs from West Sulawesi.
• Bugis Kris: Traditional daggers with distinctive wavy blades.
• Makassar Mall, Ratu Indah Mall: Modern shopping centres.

• Tana Toraja: 300 km north (8 hours) — the famous highland region with dramatic funeral ceremonies, traditional tongkonan houses, and stunning mountain scenery.
• Bira: 200 km southeast — white sand beaches and snorkelling.
• Parepare: 155 km north — Bugis port town.
• Rammang-Rammang: 40 km north — spectacular limestone karst village.
• Sengkang: 200 km northeast — Lake Tempe and traditional Bugis stilt villages.