Parepare

Parepare is a city on the west coast of South Sulawesi, about 155 km north of Makassar on the Gulf of Bone. With a population of around 150,000, it is an important port and trading city known as the "Venue of Buginese Traders" — a reference to its role as a centre for the Bugis maritime trading network that has connected the islands of Indonesia for centuries.

The city is the birthplace of B.J. Habibie, Indonesia's third president, and there is a museum dedicated to him here. Parepare is a transit point for ferry connections to Kalimantan and for travellers heading north to Toraja and Central Sulawesi.

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

By Plane

The nearest airport is Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) in Makassar, about 3 hours south.

By Ferry

Parepare's harbour serves Pelni ferries to Kalimantan and other Sulawesi ports.

By Car / Road

From Makassar, it's 3 hours north on the Trans-Sulawesi highway. Buses run frequently (Rp 50,000–80,000).

Angkot and ojek serve the city. The centre is walkable.

• Habibie Museum: Dedicated to B.J. Habibie — exhibits on his life, career, and contributions to Indonesian aviation and technology.

• Parepare Harbour: The busy port with ferries and Buginese pinisi schooners.

• Gulf of Bone: Coastal promenade with sunset views.

• Pasar Lakessi: The town market.

• Habibie Museum Visit: The main attraction — dedicated to Indonesia's third president.

• Ferry Journey to Kalimantan: Take a Pelni ferry across the Gulf of Bone.

• Sunset at the Gulf of Bone: The coastal promenade is perfect for evening walks.

Buginese cuisine — coto Makassar, pallubasa, and fresh seafood. Pisang epe (grilled banana) is a popular snack.

Bottled water is essential. Sweet tea and fresh fruit juices are available. Tap water is not drinkable.

• Budget: Losmen near the harbour (Rp 100,000–200,000/night).
• Mid-range: Hotel Pantai Parepare (Rp 200,000–400,000/night).

Pasar Lakessi sells fresh produce, dried fish, and Buginese handicrafts. Limited souvenir options.

• Makassar: 155 km south — the provincial capital.
• Toraja: 4–5 hours north — the starting point for Toraja journeys.
• Palopo: 2 hours north — gateway to Mount Latimojong.
• Sengkang: 1 hour east — Lake Tempe and Bugis floating villages.
• Kalimantan: Ferries from Parepare's harbour.