Discover the best tourist destinations in South Sulawesi that offer stunning natural scenery, rich history, and interesting culture, from beautiful beaches to exotic mountains.
South Sulawesi, a province located at the southern tip of Sulawesi Island, captivates tourists with its incredible natural beauty, as well as its rich culture and deep history.
From stunning white sand beaches to challenging mountains, every corner of South Sulawesi offers an unforgettable travel experience.
If you are planning a vacation to Indonesia, here are 10 must-visit tourist attractions in South Sulawesi, combining natural beauty and stunning historical sites.
1. Bantimurung National Park
Bantimurung National Park, located in Maros Regency, is the most iconic natural tourist destination in South Sulawesi.
This park is known as the “Butterfly Kingdom” because it is home to various rare butterfly species, some of which can only be found in this area.
The natural beauty offered by Bantimurung National Park includes caves with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, enchanting waterfalls, and stunning karst cliffs.
As a place rich in biodiversity, Bantimurung also has lush tropical vegetation and is a perfect place for nature lovers and photography.
2. Losari Beach
Losari Beach, located in the heart of Makassar, is one of the icons of South Sulawesi tourism.
Since the 1970s, this beach has become a bustling public space, even becoming the “longest dining table in the world” because of the many street vendors selling food along the beach.
After revitalization in the 2000s, Losari Beach is now a center of arts and culture with spectacular sunset views.
As one of the top highlights in Things to do Makassar, this beachfront destination is surrounded by star hotels, Fort Rotterdam, and Trans Studio Makassar, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and entertainment.
Losari Beach provides a suitable atmosphere to enjoy the beauty of nature while experiencing the dynamic city life.
3. Fort Rotterdam
Fort Rotterdam, also known as Ujung Pandang Fort, is one of the main historical sites in Makassar.
Built in 1545 by the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom, the fort has a very high historical value, especially after the surrender of Gowa-Tallo to the VOC in 1667.
This fort, which is shaped like a turtle, depicts the great power of the Gowa kingdom on land and sea.
As a historical tourism destination, Fort Rotterdam is now an important place to learn about the history of South Sulawesi and the legacy of the Dutch colonial era.
4. Somba Opu Fort
Somba Opu Fort is located in Gowa Regency, and is evidence of the glory of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom in the 16th century.
In the past, this fort was a center of trade and social activities, especially with European and Asian nations. After being destroyed by the VOC in 1669, the fort sank for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 1980s.
Today, Somba Opu Fort has been reconstructed and turned into a museum that houses historical artifacts of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom, making it one of the important sites to visit in South Sulawesi.
5. Tanjung Bira Beach
Tanjung Bira Beach is located in Bulukumba Regency and is known for its soft white sand and clear sea water. This beach is one of the best places in South Sulawesi to relax while enjoying the natural beauty.
In addition, Tanjung Bira is also a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and sailing, with many small islands around it adding to the appeal.
With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, Tanjung Bira is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
6. Malino
Malino is a natural tourist destination located at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level, making it a cool place with stunning mountain views.
Famous for its tea gardens and passion fruit plantations, Malino offers refreshing fresh air and calming natural scenery. Since the Dutch colonial era, this area has been a place of recreation for the royal family and local people.
Malino is suitable for tourists who seek tranquility and want to enjoy the natural beauty of South Sulawesi.
7. Bissappu Waterfalls
Bissappu Waterfall, located in Bantaeng Regency, offers stunning natural views with a pristine atmosphere. This 80-meter high waterfall is surrounded by river rock formations that add to the beauty of this place.
The cool atmosphere produced by the flow of the waterfall makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Bissappu is one of the must-visit natural tourist destinations in South Sulawesi for nature lovers.
8. Mount Bulusaraung
Mount Bulusaraung, located in Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park, is a popular hiking spot in South Sulawesi. At 1,353 meters high, this mountain offers a challenging hiking experience, with incredible views from its summit.
Mount Bulusaraung is known for the fog that often covers the area, creating a mystical atmosphere and adding to the beauty of the scenery.
For climbers and nature lovers, Mount Bulusaraung is one of the best destinations to enjoy the natural beauty of South Sulawesi from a height.
9. Lolai – To’ Tombi
Lolai, located in North Toraja Regency, is a tourist destination famous for its stunning views of the sea of clouds.
Situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level, this place is known as the “land above the clouds” because of the view of clouds covering the valleys below. This place is very popular among tourists who want to enjoy the sunrise with a spectacular view.
Apart from enjoying the view, visitors can also enjoy facilities such as cafes and accommodation available around the location.
10. Lake Limbong
Lake Limbong is a lake located in North Toraja Regency, surrounded by steep rock cliffs that give a hidden impression. The natural beauty around the lake makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the peace.
Apart from being a natural tourist spot, Lake Limbong is also often used as a photo shoot location because of its aesthetic and stunning landscape.
With adequate facilities, Lake Limbong is the perfect place to enjoy the peace of nature and refresh your mind.
South Sulawesi offers a variety of incredible tourist destinations, from stunning natural beauty to culturally rich historical sites.
From stunning beaches, adventurous mountains, to meaningful historical sites, South Sulawesi is a place that offers unforgettable experiences for travelers.
Among its many highlights, the Tourist Attractions in Toraja stand out with their unique culture, traditional Tongkonan houses, and fascinating burial sites.
If you are planning a vacation, make sure to visit these 10 tourist attractions in South Sulawesi to explore Indonesia’s incredible natural and cultural riches.
