If you’re searching for an Indonesian destination rich in culture, active pursuits, and unparalleled marine life, don’t miss Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This diverse destination has it all, from UNESCO-listed scuba diving into white-sand islands, hiking, impressive karst views, and cave paintings dating back over 35,000 decades. Now’s the ideal time to see, so pack your luggage and remember to choose your best camera you’re going to require it.
- Explore the Marvels of Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park
Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park is well worth seeing to see some of the numerous butterfly species found there. Only 50 kilometers from Makassar, this varied park consists of lower montane forests, lowland forests, and striking karst views, dotted with stalactite-filled caves and photogenic landscapes. Please make sure to visit the butterfly museum to find out more about the particular species in the region and have a walk to the fantastic multi-level Bantimurung waterfall.
- Hike the impressive Mouth of God, Bawakaraeng Mountain.
For one of the best perspectives of South Sulawesi, put your hiking boots and hike the favorite Bawakaraeng Mountain. It’s a famous hiking spot, so set off early to enjoy the trails in peace until it gets busy.
- Discover ancient Dutch structures at Fort Rotterdam
Step back in time in Fort Rotterdam, where you can observe the ideal example of Dutch architecture in Indonesia, dating back to 1545. The famous Fort of Makassar harbor also features an art gallery as well as the La Galigo Museum. In La Galigo Museum, you can discover Paleolithic artifacts, Polynesian and Buddhist statues, and much more.
- Enjoy at Indonesian burial traditions at Londa Burial Caves
The extensive and famous burial caves of Londa cannot be overlooked to find out more about Indonesian burial traditions. While you marvel at the remarkable structure of the burial caves. English-speaking guides will tell you about these caves’ local myths and history as you pass by piles of coffins, bones nestled among the stalactite, and stalagmite-filled caves.
- Explore ancient cave paintings and handprints
The ancient carvings of hands in the stone face of the Leang caves will send a chill down your spine because you feel the humanity of years long gone and think about the artists who made them.
- Dive and explore a few of the healthiest coral reefs in the world
To get a more immersive Wakatobi adventure, you can not beat scuba diving because you island-hop your way through the park. This particular area is home to some of the healthiest coral reefs in the world. It has a massive variety of dive spots to explore.
Suppose you visit from November to April, you might see short-finned pilot whales, whilst July to August provides the chance to see huge shoals of fish as they gather to spawn in their thousands. Whichever time of year you visit, make sure you consider dolphins. They are known to frequent the park around dawn.
- Meet Indonesia’s nomadic sea gypsies
Wakatobi could be best-known for its incredible diving. Still, there are several non-diving hidden gems you won’t want to miss. A trip to the Bajo Tribe is one of these. Once called nomadic sea gypsies, those folks have lived in the water for centuries. They are outstanding freedivers — capable of diving to 50 meters without scuba equipment and walking around the seafloor. Please make sure you see their stilted homes with a local guide and experience their way of life firsthand.
- Visit the beach with a thousand turtles
If you want to view sea turtles, be sure to take a visit to Anano Beach at Anano Runduma Island, Wakatobi. This island is well known for its many green and hawksbill turtles. Visit during the full moon, and you can get to find green turtles collecting on the beach to lay their eggs.
- Grab the sunset in Akkarena Beach
Got time for a final stop before you go home? Take a 10 minutes trip from Makassar city and see the sun go down at Akkarena Beach. The dark sands and boardwalk are striking against the setting orange sun, perfect for a final photographic memory to take home.
Holiday in Makassar looks so interesting, right? Let’s visit Makassar and South Sulawesi! Arrange your schedule and itinerary, and to know more information about Makassar, please visit Wonderful Indonesia.