Sulawesi, Indonesia is no ordinary island. Its unique K-shape hides treasures of culture and nature you won’t find elsewhere. Beyond beautiful beaches and misty mountains, Sulawesi has a soul rich traditions and authentic local life that will make your trip super special!
In this guide you’ll get an insider’s tour of Sulawesi. We’ll cover must-see sights (from Toraja’s cliff burials to Bunaken’s coral reefs), local tips, and a ready made itinerary. Whether you love adventure, culture, or off the beaten path travel, Sulawesi has something unforgettable for you.
Why Choose Sulawesi Tour?
Sulawesi (formerly called Celebes) is very unique. From its wild coastline, misty mountains, ancient living cultures, to its colorful underwater, everything is pristine and not too crowded with tourists.
You can find everything in Sulawesi: lakes, mountains, indigenous culture, underwater paradise, megalithic history, etc. Seriously, this is no ordinary place. This is for travelers looking for an authentic experience.
1. Makassar – Gateway to South Sulawesi
As the capital of South Sulawesi, Makassar is often the first place travelers land. The city has its own charm and history. Don’t miss trying Coto Makassar or Pallubasa (savory beef soups) at a local warung. Visit Fort Rotterdam for a glimpse of Dutch colonial history. In the evening, stroll along Losari Beach to catch Makassar’s stunning sunset.
Things to do in Makassar:
- Coto Makassar & Pallubasa: Hearty traditional soups.
- Losari Beach: Best sunset spot in Makassar.
- Fort Rotterdam: Well-preserved Dutch fort from the 17th century.
Budget: Local meals from IDR 20,000; budget hotels from IDR 200,000 per night.
2. Tana Toraja – Traditional Culture & Ceremonies
Tana Toraja is famous for its unique cliff tombs and funeral ceremonies. The Torajan people live in hillside villages with saddleback-roofed Tongkonan houses. When a Toraja chief dies, elaborate rituals (sometimes including buffalo sacrifices) can last for days. Visitors can respectfully observe these events if invited.
Things to do in Toraja:
- Tongkonan houses: Iconic boat-shaped wooden homes. You are gonna love this!
- Burial sites: Cliff tombs with carved effigies (tau-tau).
- Pasar Bolu (Rantepao): Lively market, good for local snacks and crafts.
- Kambira Tree Grave: Unique burial of infants in a banyan tree.
Entrance ticket: around IDR 20,000 to IDR 40,000 per Venue
Cultural Rituals & Architecture
Toraja culture is like stepping back in time. See wooden tau-tau statues guarding tombs. Hear traditional funeral music and see the horn stacking at a royal funeral (more buffalo = higher status).
Tip: June to September (dry season) has frequent ceremonies. Hire a local guide or Couchsurfing host in Rantepao for deeper insight.
3. Lake Poso & Tentena – Nature & Healing
Tentena is a quiet town by Lake Poso, one of Sulawesi’s largest freshwater lakes. Uniquely, Poso’s sand is so fine it feels like a beach. The water is clear and warm.
- Lake Poso: Swimming, kayaking, and fishing on clear water.
- Saluopa Waterfall: Spectacular falls with lush jungle.
- Pamona Cave Church: Peaceful church built in a limestone cave.
- Padamarari Hill: Hike for panoramic views of Lake Poso.
- Bada Valley megaliths: Ancient stone carvings scattered in the valley.
Lake Poso’s tranquility makes it perfect for relaxation. Nearby are easy day hikes to Saluopa Waterfall. History buffs can see the mysterious anthropomorphic statues in Bada Valley (megaliths older than Egyptian pyramids).
Recommended accommodation in Tentena: Torau Resort (Hp / Wa: 082195959566)
4. Togean Islands (Ampana) – Island Paradise
The Togean Islands (off Ampana) are a remote tropical getaway. Think Raja Ampat, but more affordable and uncrowded. Long wooden boats (prau) run daily from Ampana.
Things to do in Togean Island:
- Snorkeling & Diving: Incredible reefs and jellyfish lake (no stingers!).
- Kadidiri Island: Laid back beach camps and hammocks.
- Sunrise & Sunset: Unforgettable skies over calm water.
Think Raja Ampat, but more affordable and less crowded. It takes some effort to get here, but it’s totally worth it!
Cost
Ferry: IDR 60,000 – IDR 100.000
Private boat rental: IDR 700. 000++
Recommended hotels in Kadidiri Island:
- Backpacker: Lestari Togean Homestay (from IDR 300k/night Phone: 085259372660)
- Mid range: Black Marlin Dive Resort
- Luxury: Kadidiri Paradise Resort & Dive Center
5. Luwuk & Banggai Islands – Hidden Archipelago
Central Sulawesi’s Luwuk Banggai region is a hidden paradise. Luwuk itself is known as the “City of Water” for its many waterfalls and clear bays. From Luwuk you can reach the Banggai archipelago (hundreds of islands).
Planning to travel to Luwuk Banggai? Then read our updated guide on how to reach Banggai islands from Bali and Jakarta!
Things to do in Banggai Islands:
- Paisupok Lake (Banggai Islands): Turquoise crater lake with temples.
- Falls & Springs: Cupang and Mokokawa waterfalls near Luwuk.
- Beaches: Remote beaches like Oyama, Bontolan, Pantai Puganda.
- Marine life: Some of Indonesia’s best macro diving (sea horses, critters).
Tip: Rent a scooter on Banggai islands for free exploration (bring fuel).
Island Waterfalls & Beaches
From Luwuk town you can drive 2 to 3 hours to Paisupok Lake which is the world’s clearest lake sacred to people here. In Banggai Laut, beaches like Bontolan and Oyama have smooth sand and coconut groves. The area’s underwater biodiversity rivals Raja Ampat but with far fewer tourists.
6. Manado & Bunaken – North Sulawesi gems
Northern Sulawesi is world-famous for its underwater parks. Base yourself in Manado city (Sulawesi’s largest city) or nearby Bunaken island.
- Bunaken Marine Park: One of the world’s best coral reef ecosystems, home to turtles and reef sharks.
- Nature Reserve: Visit Tangkoko to see black crested macaques, tarsiers, and hornbills.
- Tomohon: Mountain town known for its flower festival (August) and hot springs.
- Outdoor sports: Paragliding, rafting and kayaking around Manado.
A. Bunaken Marine Park
One of the best coral reef ecosystems in the world! Perfect for divers and snorkelers. You can see turtles, sharks, and thousands of colorful fish.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 – IDR 150,000
Bunaken Diving tip: Book through a local operator such as Two Fish Divers or Froggies Dive Resort.
Best time to go: April to October
B. Outdoor Adventures in Manado (hiking Gunung Lokon, paragliding, SUP)
In the city of Manado you can take part in several outdoor activities such as paragliding, rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), rappelling, and more.
Recommended tour operator: Cross Adventure Tours (IG: @cross.adventure_).
Recommended 14 Day Sulawesi Itinerary
Plan about 2 weeks to cover Sulawesi’s highlights. For example:
- Days 1-2: Makassar (cuisine, Fort Rotterdam)
- Days 3-6: Tana Toraja (culture, funerals)
- Days 7-9: Tentena & Lake Poso (healing, waterfalls)
- Days 10-11: Togean Islands (diving, snorkeling)
- Days 12-13: (Alternate) Luwuk Banggai (beaches, marine life) or back to Togeans
- Day 14: Fly to Manado or return to Makassar, end of trip
This route balances culture with nature. You can adjust days (e.g. more diving time or extra Toraja evenings) depending on your interests.
Conclusion & Planning Your Trip
Sulawesi offers something for every traveler: from sacred Toraja ceremonies to world class diving and hidden waterfalls. Ready to start your adventure? Contact us today to plan your Sulawesi trip with our local experts and make 2025 the year you explore this hidden gem.
If you are one of those people like me who doesn’t want to follow the common tourist trail of Bali and its islands then you are going to love Sulawesi, trust me!
