The largest city in the former Celebes (Sulawesi), Makassar is a destination where tradition and modernity converge. Though Makassar is often overlooked by travelers exploring Sulawesi, it truly deserves at least a day of your time.

History

Makassar, formerly known as Ujung Pandang, is the largest city in eastern Indonesia. After World War II and until 1950, it served as the capital of the State of East Indonesia under Dutch administration. However, the city's origins predate European arrival considerably—documents from the 14th century already reference it. Before falling under Dutch rule, Makassar was a thriving port city of the Goa kingdom. From the 16th century onward, it experienced explosive growth. This expansion was closely tied to the Portuguese capture of Malacca and the decline of the Majapahit empire beginning in 1520.

Following this rapid expansion, the Goa kingdom established itself as a merchant state. Since Makassar stood at the gateway to this kingdom, it became a cosmopolitan hub welcoming merchants from across the globe. For centuries, it ranked among the archipelago's greatest ports, drawing traders from every corner of the world. At that time, Makassar flourished with export commodities—spices, coffee, pearls, silk, gold, and silver.

Today

Now the capital of South Sulawesi province, Makassar seeks to reaffirm its position as the metropolis of greater eastern Indonesia. This former trading powerhouse is charting a new course within the Indonesian landscape, where Surabaya has since replaced it as the gateway to the "greater east." Having experienced genuine growth over the past two decades, it aspires to reclaim its status as the capital of greater eastern Indonesia, much as it once held during colonial times.

Makassar may not be an essential destination in Sulawesi, yet it remains a pleasant major city worth exploring for a day. Its waterfront offers an extended promenade, perfect for pausing at one of the coastal bars and restaurants.

Take a day in Makassar to visit Fort Rotterdam, a testament to the Dutch's late colonization of Sulawesi. This brief stop offers a chance to relax in peaceful surroundings and meet local Indonesians.

The charming floating mosque is equally worth seeing for its striking architecture and construction above the water.

The relatively small number of tourists in the city allows for complete immersion in Indonesian urban life, and perhaps some remarkable encounters.

Geography and Climate

Makassar sits in the southwestern portion of Sulawesi island. It is traversed by the Jeneberang River. The city covers an area of 175.77 km². Demographically, it records average annual growth of 4.33%. The one-million-resident milestone was surpassed in 1992 (1,000,328 according to official estimates).

The city enjoys highly contrasting weather. The torrential summer rains (exceeding 600 mm in January) give way to a dry "winter" from June to October, with virtually no rainy days. Average monthly temperatures, ranging between 25°C and 28°C, peak toward the end of this dry season.

Flight is the simplest and most convenient way to reach Makassar. The city is served by numerous flights from major Indonesian cities including Jakarta, Surabaya, and Denpasar.

Buses connect the island, making it easy to reach Makassar.

With Zimuth Adventure Travel, you'll enjoy a private car with an English-speaking driver.

Makassar offers various transport options:

Buses: Makassar is connected to surrounding villages by a network of bus-minivans.

Taxis: Multiple taxi services, including PT Amal Taxi, operate 24/7.

Car Rental: Most major international agencies have local offices.

What to See and Do?

• Visit Fort Rotterdam
• Admire the floating mosque
• Visit the Royal Cemetery of Gowa
• Shop at the city's numerous stores
• Head to Losari Beach to relax and swim
• Explore Trans Kalla, Southeast Asia's largest theme park