Things To Do
in Makassar
Makassar, Indonesia, is a bustling coastal city and the provincial capital of South Sulawesi, known for its historic significance as a trading port since the pre-colonial era. The city is renowned for its scenic waterfront area, Losari Beach, and the iconic Fort Rotterdam, a well-preserved example of Dutch colonial architecture.
Makassar serves as a gateway to explore the diverse cultures, landscapes, and culinary delights of Sulawesi, offering visitors a blend of modern urban life and rich historical heritage.
- "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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit Fort Rotterdam to learn about Makassar's history. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and take photos of the iconic structures.
Head to Losari Beach for lunch at one of the seaside restaurants. Relax while enjoying the ocean view and local cuisine.
Stroll along the beach promenade as the sun sets. Experience the lively atmosphere with local vendors selling snacks and souvenirs.
Take a boat trip to the nearby Samalona Island. Snorkel in clear waters and observe vibrant marine life.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach and relax by the shore. Explore the island's small walking paths to discover hidden spots.
Return to Makassar and have dinner at a popular seafood restaurant. Try the fresh catch of the day while soaking in the local dining scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse local traditions.
- Access to beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
- Delicious and varied cuisine, known for its seafood and spicy dishes.
- Growing economy with opportunities in trade and tourism.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Traffic congestion can be a problem in the city.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Issues with air quality and pollution in urban areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding.
- Some areas may lack adequate infrastructure and services.
Best Activities in Makassar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the sandy beach, watch the sunset, and enjoy the sea breeze.
Take a boat trip to this small island, snorkel in its clear waters, and explore its scenic beauty.
Visit this historic fort, walk around its grounds, and learn about the region's colonial history.
Spend a day on this quiet, scenic beach known for its clear waters and beautiful sunset views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Makassar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Makassar
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot for sunset views and bustling with food stalls and activities.
Offers a historical backdrop with panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Beautiful beach with great photo opportunities and water sports.
A scenic natural wonder with lush surroundings and stunning cascades.
Food in Makassar
Makassar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional beef soup simmered with special spices and served with steamed rice and emping crackers. It can be savored at popular spots like Coto Nusantara and Coto Ranggong.
Must-Try!
A flavorful beef ribs dish slow-cooked in a mix of spices, galangal, and coconut milk, best enjoyed at Konro Karebosi or RM Muda Mudi.
A spicy beef or buffalo meat soup with a hint of coconut milk and a touch of lemon basil, widely available at Pallubasa Serigala and Pallubasa 68.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Makassar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where one can discover a variety of local street foods like pisang epe (grilled pressed banana), palumara (fish soup), and es pisang ijo (green banana ice).
A vibrant area known for its street food stalls offering delicacies like pisang hijau (green banana fritters) and pisang goreng (fried bananas) along with fresh seafood dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Makassar, it's important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures.
Greet others with a handshake, and if meeting a Muslim, it's respectful to say 'Assalamualaikum' (peace be upon you).
When eating, use your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. It's also polite to finish all the food on your plate.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Makassar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Makassar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Makassar, Indonesia. It is not expected or required in most situations.
In Makassar, Indonesia, cash is the primary mode of payment, although some restaurants and larger establishments may accept credit cards. It is important to have sufficient local currency for smaller vendors and transportation services.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Makassar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Makassar is during the dry season, from June to September. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather, perfect for exploring the city and its beautiful beaches. It's also a great time for outdoor activities and water sports.
The wet season in Makassar occurs from December to March. During this time, you can expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. The wet season is not ideal for outdoor activities, but it can be a good time to experience the lush green landscapes and take part in cultural events and festivals.
Makassar at Night
Hiking in Makassar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain located south of Makassar, ideal for experienced hikers and offers stunning views from the summit.
Known for its traditional culture and breathtaking landscapes, Tana Toraja offers various hiking trails through lush hills and valleys.
A beach area near Makassar with surrounding hills perfect for trekking and enjoying coastal views.
Explore the mangrove ecosystems through well-maintained trails while enjoying the serene natural environment.
The highest peak in South Sulawesi, offering challenging trails and spectacular views, perfect for adventurous hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Makassar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Makassar by plane.
The main airport serving Makassar, it's a major hub in eastern Indonesia with connections to domestic and some international destinations.
Located in Manado, North Sulawesi, this airport is approximately 625 kilometers from Makassar and serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, approximately 8,500 kilometers from Makassar, it's one of the largest airports in East Africa and serves various international routes.
Situated in Bali, approximately 1,150 kilometers from Makassar, it's a major international airport with numerous international flights.
Located in Jakarta, around 1,600 kilometers from Makassar, this is the largest and busiest airport in Indonesia, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Bugis people are the largest ethnic group in Makassar, known for their seafaring tradition and strong cultural heritage.
The indigenous Makassarese people are the second largest group, with a distinct language and customs unique to the region.
The Toraja ethnic group, known for their elaborate funeral rites and unique architecture, constitutes a significant minority in Makassar.
The Minangkabau people, who are known for their matrilineal society and rich culinary traditions, also have a presence in Makassar.
The Javanese ethnic group has a notable population in Makassar, bringing their culture and customs from the island of Java.
The Chinese community in Makassar has been present for centuries and contributes to the economic and cultural diversity of the city.
The Sundanese people, who originate from West Java, are also part of the multicultural landscape of Makassar.
The Soul of Makassar
Discover the essence of Makassar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Makassar, with a passionate local following and several clubs competing at various levels.
Badminton enjoys great popularity in Indonesia, and Makassar is no exception, with many local tournaments and clubs.
Basketball has gained traction among the youth in Makassar, with recreational leagues and school competitions being common.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and communities, with mixed-gender teams often participating in local tournaments.
As a form of traditional martial arts, Pencak Silat is practiced by many in Makassar, emphasizing both physical discipline and cultural heritage.
Cycling is gaining popularity as a recreational activity in Makassar, with organized rides and events attracting local enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makassar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes in Makassar feature meat, some restaurants like Rumah Makan Karebosi and La Cucina Ristorante offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices like vegetable stir-fries, salads, and pasta dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options in international restaurants and cafes like La Cucina Ristorante that provide gluten-free pasta and pizza alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Makassar with these cultural adventures.
