Tourist Attractions in Makassar – Makassar is the 5th biggest city in Indonesia and also the capital city of South Sulawesi. This city was previously called Ujung Pandang. Sometimes, local people still use the name “Ujung Pandang” to refer to this city.
Makassar has become one of the biggest metropolitan cities in Indonesia. With a lot of business activities, this city looks crowded. In fact, people are coming to Makassar not only to do business but also to explore its natural wonders.
Before starting your trip in Makassar, try its favorite local food, which is Coto Makassar. This delicious food consists of beef and rich broth. If your stomach is full, then it’s time to explore this wonderful city!
Captivating Tourist Attractions in Makassar
Makassar has become a popular destination for local and international tourists alike. There are various beautiful attractions, such as beaches, culinary spots, and historical sites that you can visit in the city. Here are some good recommendations you can choose from:
1. Learning the History of Fort Rotterdam
Going back to the 15th century when Indonesia was fighting for independence against Dutch colonies, Sultan Hasanuddin agreed to make this fort as a part of a peace agreement. Unfortunately, the Makassar Battle started and VOC successfully signed the Bongaya Agreement, this fort was returned to the Dutch colonies.
The Dutch colonies changed the fort’s name from Benteng Ujung Pandang to Fort Rotterdam, which was Admiral Cornelis Speelman’s hometown. Until now, this fort is still well-maintained and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Makassar.
How to get there:
– From Sultan Hasanuddin Airport, take Damri bus with Bandara Hasanuddin – Karebosi route dan get off at Fort Rotterdam
– From Soekarno-Hatta Harbor, take pete-pete atau city transport code B atau L with Pasar Buntung – Malengkeri route dan get off at Fort Rotterdam
Opening hours: 09.00 – 18.00 WITA
Address: Jl. Ujung Pandang, Bulo Gadung, Kec. Ujung Pandang, Makassar City, South Sulawesi
2. Relax at the Iconic Losari Beach
Losari Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Makassar. Many people come here to enjoy the sunset with their loved ones. The view here is so charming and calming.
While you’re strolling around the beach, try Pisang Epe – the local’s specialty’s dessert – that is sweet and delicious! Enjoy your time at the beach that is well-maintained and clean.
Ticket price: FREE
How to get here:
– From Sultan Hasanuddin Airport, take private or public transportation for 1 hour to Losari Beach.
– From Soekarno-Hatta Harbor, take private or public transportation for 20 minutes to Losari Beach.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Address: Jalan Metro Tanjung Bunga, Maloku, Ujung Pandang, Makassar City, South Sulawesi
3. Embrace the Beauty of the Floating Amirul Mukminin Mosque
Amirul Mukminin Mosque, also known as the “floating mosque” is located at Losari Beach. This unique mosque is one of the most Instagrammable tourist attractions in Makassar. At night, the dome emits colorful lights that look so beautiful!
If you’re visiting this mosque during Ramadan month, you can see that this place is crowded with visitors who want to pray. This mosque also provides food to break the fast. The mosque can accommodate up to 500 people.
How to get here:
– From Sultan Hasanuddin Airport, take private or public transportation for 1 hour to this mosque.
– From Soekarno-Hatta Harbor, take private or public transportation for 20 minutes to this mosque.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Address: Jl. Penghubur No. 289, Losari, Ujung Pandang, Makassar City, South Sulawesi
4. Enjoying the Tea Plantation View at Malino Highland Peak
At this tourist attraction, you can enjoy a cup of tea while seeing a scenic view. Based on the history, Malino Highland Peak served as the resting place for the Dutch colonies.
Located at highland, specifically at Mount Malino, this tea plantation is equipped with cafes and a mini zoo. The view that you can see from the peak is like being surrounded by clouds, making it look like it is above the sky.
How to get here: From the center of Makassar city, take public or private transportation for 2.5 hours to Malino Highland Peak.
Opening hours: 08.00 – 17.00 WITA (weekdays); 07.00 – 18.00 WITA (weekend)
Address: Pattapang, Tinggimoncong, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi
5. Visiting the Beautiful Little Island Called Samalona Island
Samalona Island is one of the famous natural tourist destinations in Makassar. Even though this island is located on separate islands, Samalona Island is still under the Makassar city’s administration. To get to this island, you can take a boat for about 45 minutes from Kayu Bangkoa Pier.
There are several water activities that you can do, such as snorkeling and diving. You can see the underwater clearly because of the clear seawater. You can see various types of fishes and corals there.
Don’t worry, there are many accommodations you can stay at the island, so you don’t have to be in a rush when visiting Samalona Island.
Ticket price: FREE
How to get here: From Kayu Bangkoa Pier, take a boat for 45 minutes with a fee of 300.000-500.000 IDR/ person
Opening hours: 24 hours
Address: Lae-Lae, Kec. Ujung Pandang, Makassar City, South Sulawesi
6. Exploring the Unique Parangloe Waterfall
If you drive 20 km from the center of Makassar City to the southeast, you can find this beautiful waterfall. Parangloe Waterfall is also one of the top natural tourist attractions in Makassar.
What makes this 200 meters-tall waterfall unique is its unique gradual structure. This structure makes the water flow look beautiful. Besides taking pictures, you can play around with the water and feel its freshness. It’s suitable for those of you who want to unwind yourself.
Ticket price: FREE
How to get here: You can reach the place by riding a motorcycle.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Address: Belapunranga, Parangloe, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi
7. Taking Lots of Photos at Balocci Stone Garden
This tourist attraction is relatively new and it is one of the favorite destinations for tourists these days, especially for photography lovers.
Not only stones, but this garden is also overgrown by beautiful sesame flowers. The combination of grey from the stones and green from the flowers is the main attraction for the visitors.
If you have a drone, try to take an aerial picture of this garden. You won’t regret it!
How to get here:
From Sultan Hasanuddin Airport, you can go by car for 1 hour to reach this location.
From the Makassar-Maros border, you can travel by car for 45 minutes to this location.
Take pete-pete to Pangkep and get off at Soreang, then take a walk until you find the stone garden.
Opening hours: 06.30 – 18.00 WITA (every day)
Address: Desa Balleangin, Kec. Balocci, Pangkajene Dan Kepulauan (Pangkep) Regency, South Sulawesi
Visit Makassar and Have a Great Family Trip!
There are a thousand reasons to choose Makassar as your next vacation destination. You can try various attractions ranging from historical sites, natural tourist attractions, and culinary spots. Don’t worry, there are several cheap but good hotels in Makassar that you can book to complete your vacation.
Don’t forget to always comply with the health protocol while you’re on vacation so you can travel safely and comfortably. Happy vacation!
*All prices are valid at the time of writing
