Lying on the southwest coast of the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, the port of Makassar is home to sun, sea and fresher than fresh seafood. A bustling metropolis of over two million, Makassar offers a non-stop flavour of Indonesian city life, replete with honking rickshaws, historic sites and an almost endless choice of market stalls selling weird and wonderful culinary delights. Its location on the coast means Makassar is also in the vicinity of a little peace and quiet. So, if you prefer a gentle trip to one of its sandy coastal islands, or to the verdant, rocky countryside that Sulawesi is famous for, you’ll find something to do in Makassar.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Makassar
Losari Beach — The promenade offers a typical taste of Indonesian bars, seafood restaurants and street vendors, selling various sweets and meats to keep you sated. For a little lively atmosphere, Losari Beach is certainly the place to be.
Old Gowa — Makassar is particularly renowned for its Dutch colonial heritage, but the Old Gowa district to the south of Makassar boasts the remains of a much older 15th century maritime empire. Characterised by its famous stilted wooden palace, Benteng Sungguminasa, Old Gowa is a must for any history buff.
Lae Lae Island — Once a World War Two Japanese stronghold, Lae Lae Island is now one of the city’s more popular attractions. Lined with pretty trees, sandy beaches and a wartime wave barrier that has weathered into the landscape, Lae Lae Island is ideal for a spot of tropical snorkelling, swimming or coral reef scuba diving.
Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park— Nature enthusiasts will adore Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park, which is home to one of the largest limestone caves systems on the planet and some truly lush and remarkable landscapes. In addition to rolling forests and caves, it has one of the most diverse population of butterflies in the world.
Things to See in Makassar
Makassar attracts many nature lovers who wish to visit the islands scattering Makassar’s coast, or the splendour of the nearby National Park. As an historic centre of the Dutch East Indies spice trade, Makassar is also home to a selection of excellent colonial architecture, the most prominent example of which is Fort Rotterdam. The fort has over a dozen 17th century buildings, including a colonial church. Incongruously European against the city’s humid tropical climate, Fort Rotterdam is the perfect spot for a unique photo opportunity.
Things to Do in Makassar
Action-packed activity hunters will find no shortage of things to do in Makassar. For instance, thrill-seekers could pay a visit to Trans Studio Makassar, the third largest indoor theme park in the world. Meanwhile, those looking to learn a little about the city’s history could head the Mulawarman Museum. Located in a former Dutch colonial palace, the museum drips with lavish furnishings, statuary and even a Balinese-style puppet theatre, making this a great trip for kids, as well as adults.
