Things To Do
in Kendari
Kendari is a coastal city located in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for water sports and beach enthusiasts. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music and dance performances often held in local venues.
Kendari also serves as a gateway to explore the diverse marine life and pristine islands of the Wakatobi National Park.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $0.80
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning at Nambo Beach, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise and fresh ocean breeze. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Sand Island for some swimming and sunbathing. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach while soaking up the sun.
Finish your day with dinner at a beachside restaurant, savoring local seafood dishes. As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing view of the horizon.
Begin your day with an early trip to Lore Lindu National Park, where you can witness the diverse flora and fauna. Take a guided hike through the trails to learn about the unique ecosystem.
Use your afternoon to explore the ancient megaliths scattered throughout the park. Take plenty of photos and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
Return to Kendari for a quiet evening. Enjoy a local dish at your hotel or a nearby eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and marine biodiversity, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions, with various festivals and events.
- Access to natural attractions like mountains and national parks.
- Growing tourism and hospitality industry, offering various accommodations.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options.
- Potential language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
- Hot and humid tropical climate that may be uncomfortable for some.
- Environmental issues such as waste management and deforestation.
- Economic disparities and challenges faced by local communities.
Best Activities in Kendari
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day by the beautiful and serene Nambo Beach, known for its clear waters and white sands.
Embark on a boat trip to Bokori Island to experience pristine beaches, snorkeling, and stunning coral reefs.
Explore the lush Kendari Forest Park, known for its hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kendari with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kendari
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding areas, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Offers picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
A bustling market with vibrant colors and lively atmosphere, providing great opportunities for capturing local life and culture.
Food in Kendari
Kendari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pangi Iwuwu is a traditional dish made with grilled fish, coconut milk, and local spices, offering a perfect blend of savory and creamy flavors. It is a must-try for seafood lovers. Head to Pasar Sentral Kendari to savor this local delicacy.
Must-Try!
Sup Konro is a hearty beef rib soup infused with a mix of spices, served with rice and condiments. Look for local warungs or street food stalls to enjoy this flavorful dish.
Ikan Bakar, or grilled fish, is a ubiquitous dish in Kendari due to the city's coastal location. Visit Pantai Sematari to taste some of the freshest and most delicious Ikan Bakar in the area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kendari better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pasar Sentral Kendari is the heart of local culinary culture, offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. It's an excellent place to sample a variety of street food, such as Pisang Epe (grilled banana with palm sugar and chocolate).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kendari, it is important to greet people with a smile and a slight bow as a sign of respect. Handshakes are also common, but it is best to wait for the other person to initiate it.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Kendari's culture. It is important to address older people with the appropriate honorifics and to show deference in speech and behavior.
It is important to dress modestly in Kendari, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional events. Revealing clothing may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kendari with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kendari
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kendari, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill may be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
Payment in Kendari, Indonesia is commonly made in cash, especially in smaller businesses and local markets. Some larger establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand. It's also important to note that bargaining is a common practice in markets and smaller shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kendari.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kendari is during the dry season when the weather is generally sunny and dry. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
During the wet season, Kendari experiences heavy rainfall and occasional storms. This period is less favorable for travel due to frequent downpours and potential disruptions to outdoor plans.
Kendari at Night
Hiking in Kendari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful coastal area with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
A popular hiking destination known for its challenging trails and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.
An expansive national park featuring diverse flora and fauna, offering various hiking routes through its lush landscapes.
This area offers scenic hiking trails along the river, surrounded by lush greenery and unique rock formations.
A striking mountain that provides a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views from the top.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kendari through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kendari by plane.
The largest airport in Sulawesi, located in Makassar, approximately 400 kilometers from Kendari.
Located in Manado, approximately 600 kilometers from Kendari, serves as a major gateway to North Sulawesi.
Located in Banda Aceh, around 700 kilometers from Kendari, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Palu, approximately 650 kilometers from Kendari, it is the main airport in Central Sulawesi.
Located in Jakarta, over 1,500 kilometers from Kendari, it is the main international airport serving the capital of Indonesia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who identify with the indigenous Muna, Buton, and Bone cultures, representing a significant portion of the population.
A considerable demographic, with many migrants from Java contributing to the economic and cultural landscape of the city.
A smaller yet influential group, primarily involved in business and trade.
Groups including Minangkabau, Batak, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kendari.
People from various Indonesian regions who come to Kendari for reasons such as work and education.
The Soul of Kendari
Discover the essence of Kendari through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kendari, attracting a large number of fans and players, with local leagues and tournaments frequently organized.
Badminton is widely played in Kendari, with many local clubs and competitions. It enjoys popularity among both men and women.
Basketball has a growing number of enthusiasts in Kendari, particularly among youth, with various street and school teams.
Volleyball is a common sport played in parks and schools, with local teams competing in community tournaments.
Various martial arts, including Pencak Silat, are practiced in Kendari, emphasizing physical fitness and self-defense.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kendari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kendari's cuisine is rich in seafood and meat, many local eateries also offer tasty vegetarian dishes, such as Sayur Asem (sour vegetable soup) and Sayur Bunga Pepaya (papaya flower stir fry). Look for vegetarian-friendly options at traditional warungs and family-run restaurants.
Gluten-free options may be limited in Kendari, but dishes like Ikan Bakar and some traditional soups can be suitable for those avoiding gluten. Communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff at restaurants, and they will often accommodate your requirements to the best of their ability.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kendari with these cultural adventures.
