Makassar, also known as Ujung Padang, is a port city on eastern Indonesia’s Sulawesi island. Inside its 17th-century Dutch colonial Fort Rotterdam is the Museum Negeri La Galigo, housing local exhibits. A promenade along Losari Beach is known for its seafood restaurants. Traditional pinisi sailing ships pack the harbor of Pelabuhan Paotere. Offshore, snorkeling is possible on the coral reefs of Samalona Island.
Best Time to Visit Makassar ☀️
The best time to visit Makassar is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and relatively dry, making it ideal for exploring beaches, islands, and cultural sites.
The rainy season (November to April) can bring heavy showers, but short bursts of rain usually don't last all day. If you want fewer crowds, visiting during the shoulder months (April or October) can also be a good option.
How to Get to Makassar ✈️🚢
By Air (Fastest & Most Convenient)
Makassar is served by Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG), located about 20 km from the city center.
- From Jakarta – Direct flights (~2.5 hours)
- From Bali (Denpasar) – Direct flights (~1.5 hours)
- From Surabaya – Direct flights (~1.5 hours)
- From Singapore & Kuala Lumpur – Some airlines offer direct flights
Getting to the city from the airport:
- Airport taxi – Available at fixed rates.
- Ride-hailing apps – Gojek & Grab are convenient and affordable.
- DAMRI Airport Bus – Budget-friendly option to the city center.
By Sea (Scenic but Slower) 🚢
Makassar is a major port city and can be reached by Pelni ferries from other parts of Indonesia, such as:
- Surabaya (East Java) – ~24 hours
- Jakarta – ~40 hours
- Bali (Benoa Port) – ~36 hours
Ferries dock at Soekarno-Hatta Port, close to Makassar's city center. This option is best for adventurous travelers who want to experience Indonesia’s maritime routes.
By Land & Bus 🚌
Makassar is connected to other parts of Sulawesi by intercity buses and private cars. Common routes include:
- Toraja (Rantepao) – 8-9 hours
- Palu – 15-16 hours
- Manado – Over 24 hours (not recommended unless you enjoy long road trips)
Top Attractions in Makassar 🌅
- Losari Beach – The most famous beachfront promenade in Makassar, perfect for sunset views.
- Fort Rotterdam – A well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fort with a museum showcasing Makassar’s history.
- Trans Studio Makassar – One of the largest indoor theme parks in Indonesia, great for families and thrill-seekers.
- Paotere Harbor – A bustling traditional port where you can see wooden Pinisi ships.
- Samalona Island – A small, beautiful island with clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving.
- Kodingareng Keke Island – A stunning uninhabited island with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
- Bantimurung National Park – Known as the "Kingdom of Butterflies," featuring waterfalls, caves, and lush scenery.
- Leang-Leang Caves – Ancient caves with prehistoric hand paintings, dating back thousands of years.
- Malino Highlands – A cool, green retreat outside Makassar with tea plantations and waterfalls.
- Rammang-Rammang Karst Mountains – A breathtaking limestone karst area with stunning landscapes and boat tours.
Activities to Do in Makassar 🚀
✅ Enjoy Sunset at Losari Beach – Try the famous local snack Pisang Epe (grilled banana).
✅ Island-Hopping to Samalona & Kodingareng Keke – Snorkel, dive, or relax on pristine beaches.
✅ Explore the Historic Fort Rotterdam – Walk through centuries-old walls and visit the museum inside.
✅ Go Caving & See Ancient Hand Paintings at Leang-Leang Caves.
✅ Trekking in Bantimurung National Park – Spot butterflies and cool off at the waterfall.
✅ Take a Boat Tour Through Rammang-Rammang – Explore a hidden paradise of limestone cliffs and lush rivers.
✅ Visit a Traditional Phinisi Shipyard – See how Makassar’s famous wooden ships are built.
✅ Taste Makassar’s Culinary Specialties – Try Coto Makassar, Konro, and Pallubasa.
✅ Day Trip to Malino Highlands – Enjoy tea plantations, cool weather, and scenic landscapes.
Best Accommodation in Makassar 🏨
Luxury Hotels (5-star) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
- The Rinra Makassar – A stylish beachfront hotel with an infinity pool and amazing sunset views.
- Claro Makassar – Modern hotel with excellent service and city views.
- Swiss-Belhotel Makassar – Offers sea-view rooms near Losari Beach.
Mid-Range Hotels (3-4 star) 🏨
- Aston Makassar Hotel & Convention Center – Comfortable and centrally located.
- Harper Perintis Makassar – A great mix of affordability and comfort.
- Novotel Makassar Grand Shayla – Business-friendly hotel with good amenities.
Budget & Backpacker Options 💰
- Ibis Makassar City Center – Good value for money, near Losari Beach.
- Pod House Makassar – A trendy capsule hotel for budget travelers.
- RedDoorz & OYO Hotels – Plenty of budget accommodations available across the city.
Food & Restaurant Recommendations in Makassar 🍽️
Makassar is famous for its rich and flavorful Bugis-Makassar cuisine, known for its bold spices, coconut-based dishes, and fresh seafood. Here are some must-try dishes and where to find them:
Must-Try Local Dishes 🌶️
✅ Coto Makassar – A hearty beef soup with peanut sauce, served with ketupat (rice cakes).
✅ Konro – A delicious beef rib soup, often grilled and covered in rich black sauce.
✅ Pallubasa – Similar to Coto Makassar but with coconut milk, often served with a raw egg.
✅ Pisang Epe – Grilled banana with palm sugar syrup, best enjoyed at Losari Beach.
✅ Sop Saudara – A spicy and aromatic soup with beef, fried potatoes, and vermicelli.
✅ Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish) – Fresh seafood grilled with Makassar-style spicy marinade.
✅ Jalangkote – A Makassar-style fried pastry similar to an empanada, filled with vegetables and meat.
✅ Es Pisang Ijo – A refreshing dessert made of banana wrapped in green rice flour, served with coconut milk and syrup.
Best Restaurants & Street Food Spots in Makassar 🍴
🥘 For Authentic Makassar Cuisine:
- Coto Nusantara – One of the best places for Coto Makassar.
- Konro Karebosi – Famous for its grilled Konro ribs.
- Pallubasa Serigala – Iconic spot for Pallubasa, very flavorful.
- RM Bravo – Must-visit for Es Pisang Ijo and Jalangkote.
- Sop Saudara Irian – Best place to try Sop Saudara.
🐟 For Fresh Seafood:
- Lae Lae Seafood – One of the best seafood restaurants in town, known for grilled fish & squid.
- RM Nelayan – Great spot for various seafood dishes with local flavors.
- Bahari Restaurant – Serves fresh, authentic Makassar seafood.
🍕 For International & Modern Dining:
- Kampoeng Popsa – A cozy, open-air food court with diverse options and a waterfront view.
- Bistropolis – A chic bistro offering fusion and Western cuisine.
- Black Canyon Coffee Makassar – A great place for coffee and casual dining.
☕ For Coffee & Hangout Spots:
- Rocks Coffee Makassar – Trendy café with great coffee and ambiance.
- Kanaka Coffee & Eatery – Perfect for a chill coffee break.
- Zona Café – Popular for its lively atmosphere and nightlife.
Local Culture & Traditions in Makassar 🎭
Makassar has a strong maritime heritage, being home to the legendary Bugis and Makassar sailors, famous for their Pinisi ships. The city is a cultural melting pot, influenced by the Bugis, Makassar, Toraja, and Chinese communities.
✨ Key Cultural Aspects:
- Bugis & Makassar Traditions – Strong seafaring culture, boat-building skills, and hospitality.
- Phinisi Shipbuilding – A tradition of handcrafting wooden ships, recognized as a UNESCO heritage.
- Makassarese Language – Though Indonesian is spoken, locals also use Bugis and Makassarese languages.
- Traditional Attire – The Baju Bodo is a traditional women’s outfit, often worn during ceremonies.
- Pa’Gellu Dance – A welcoming dance performed at special events.
✨ Festivals & Celebrations:
- F8 Makassar (Makassar International Eight Festival & Forum) – A major cultural and arts festival featuring music, food, fashion, and film.
- Bugis-Makassar Wedding Ceremonies – Known for their elaborate Adat (customary) rituals.
- Mappalili (Harvest Ceremony) – A Bugis agricultural tradition celebrating the planting season.
🌊 Maritime Heritage Experiences:
- Visit Paotere Harbor – See the iconic Pinisi ships up close.
- Explore the Makassar Maritime Museum – Learn about the city's history as a major trading port.
