Makassar
Indonesia
- Safety rating
- 6.8/10
- Best time to visit
- The dry season (May–October) is best for the city and onward travel to dive sites and Tana Toraja.
- Population
- 1.5M
Overview
Makassar, the largest city on Sulawesi, is a gritty, lively port with a famous seafood scene and a storied maritime past. Its fort, sunset-lit waterfront, and bustling markets reflect centuries as a spice-trade crossroads. It is the gateway to Sulawesi's reefs and the highland Toraja culture.
Top attractions
Visit Fort Rotterdam, Losari Beach, the Paotere fishing harbor, and use the city as a base for Tana Toraja.
Getting around
Ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek), pete-pete minibuses, and taxis are the main options.