Explore the most popular things to do in Makassar

Makassar City is one of the most famous cities in South Sulawesi. Apart from being in the city center (which has many tourist attractions to explore), Makassar is also close to other locations with interesting natural attractions. Here are 30 recommended tourist attractions in Makassar and its surroundings!

1. Losari Beach

Losari Beach is arguably the icon of Makassar City. Of course, you shouldn't miss this one tourist spot when traveling in Makassar. The scenery is beautiful because the beach is still clean and beautiful. Then, this beach is also easily accessible from the city center.

2. Trans Studio Mini Makassar

Want to take a trip to a family tourist spot that is also suitable for your little one? Let's go to Trans Studio Mini Makassar! Like other branches in other cities, Trans Studio Mini Makassar is an indoor playground full of rides and games that are suitable for all ages. Because it's inside a mall, you don't have to worry about the weather or parking spot issues!

3. Masjid Amirul Mukminin

Amirul Mukminin Mosque not only stands as one of the main places of worship in Makassar but is also unique. This is because the mosque is floating on the beach. In addition, at night, the beautiful lights around this building are also brightly lit, making this mosque look even more magnificent.

4. Mangrove Lantebung Ecotourism

This mangrove forest has often become one of the most popular destinations in Makassar for local residents and tourists. Apart from the beautiful scenery and refreshing atmosphere, this place has been facilitated well. There are colorful instagrammable bridges and comfortable sitting areas.

5. Lengang Waterfall

Even though it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes from the center of Makassar City, this tourist spot will definitely be worth your trip! Here, the main attraction is a natural infinity pool with cool air and a refreshing natural view. You can take pictures above the waterfall or at the bottom. Both are cool!

6. Masjid 99 Kubah Makassar

You might have guessed it from the name. Yes, this mosque has 99 domes which are said to have been taken from the number of Asmaul Husna. Apart from being one of the main destinations for worship, many tourists also admire its exterior architecture.

7. Bantimurung National Park

Do you like traveling to extraordinary and cool natural attractions? Just go to Bantimurung National Park! This destination in Makassar is home to many flora and fauna species, including new butterflies. This national park is usually more popular in the dry season among tourists and researchers.

8. Bantimurung Waterpark

Not far from Bantimurung National Park, you can go to Bantimurung Waterpark to add freshness. Here, there are lots of cool rides for you and your little one. But, its main attraction is its fresh air and water due to its location. Of course, it will feel different when compared to the waterpark in the city center.

9. Batulappa Waterfall

Because the location is quite hidden, you have to drive about 2-3 hours from Makassar to reach this waterfall. What makes this waterfall unique is the steps you can climb and even make a photo spot.

10. Gusung Island

Using a boat, you can reach this one island from downtown Makassar. Gusung Island is actually formed from a pile of sand so that it is getting bigger day by day. You can enjoy views of the sea, sky, and also try fishing activities here.

11. Apparalang

Located in Bulukumba or about 4.5 hours from Makassar, the main attraction of this place is the cliffs on the beach's edge, which provide access to stunning views. You can take a leisurely walk while enjoying the breeze with the loved ones here.

12. Bendungan Singgasana Balang Malino, Gowa

Located about 2 hours from Makassar, this dam has often become a tourist destination for local residents. However, this place is still relatively hidden and usually not crowded with tourists. Here, you can enjoy the lush green scenery, enjoy the atmosphere's freshness, and take pictures until you are satisfied.

13. Lembah Hijau Kamp, Malino

To reach this tourist spot, you have to drive about 2 hours from the center of Makassar City. This tourist attraction is arguably the perfect place for family recreation! There is river tubing, hanging bikes, and various great photo spots with cool scenic backgrounds.

14. Tanjung Bayang Beach

This tourist attraction in Makassar is one of the most popular with local people and tourists. This is because the beach is quite wide and long so you can explore until you are satisfied. You can take a leisurely walk or hone your physical skills by swimming and playing beach volleyball.

15. Bugis Waterpark Adventure

Do you want to relieve fatigue and feeling hot while traveling in Makassar? Just go to Bugis Waterpark Adventure! You can relax in the pool with a slow flow or just get your adrenaline pumping with various fun rides! There is a special pool for children too, you know!

16. Celebes Canyon

Celebes Canyon is a natural tourist destination perfect for a relaxing weekend walk. After driving about 2 hours from Makassar, you will be greeted by a beautiful expanse of rice fields when you get there. After going through the expanse, you will reach the river. Here, the water really never stops flowing, you know!

17. Bukit Kanari Camba

Located in Maros (2 hours from Makassar), this place provides various beautiful photo spots against a backdrop of clear skies and lush green scenery. Usually, most tourists visit this place before sunset for even more fantastic photos.

18. Port of Paotere

Many tourists are interested in visiting one of the oldest ports in Makassar. This is because many magnificent ships stop here, including the Phinisi and Lambo, typical Makassar boats. If you come here near sunset, the view will be even more spectacular!

19. Leang-Leang, Maros

When you visit here, you will feel like you are in the movie "Jurassic Park"! There are some limestone rocks scattered throughout the park. Of course, it becomes a unique and cool scene, right? Because it is a famous tourist spot, the facilities here are adequate, including asphalt roads for pedestrians.

20. Girinaga Temple

This Buddhist place of worship in Makassar has nine floors and reaches 30 meters in height. Inside, there are still many statues and statues that are complete and well-preserved.

21. Lappa Laona, Barru

When you arrive here, you may feel that you are traveling abroad. There are green grass fields as far as the eye can see, small Western-style houses, cool photo spots, and attractive recreational facilities.

22. Akkarena Beach

If you want to relax on the beach with your family and enjoy the clear sky, Akkarena Beach can be the right choice. You can enjoy a unique beach atmosphere but also with complete facilities. The relaxing area here is readily available, as well as the surrounding restaurants.

23. Mount Bawakaraeng, Malino

For those of you who like outdoor activities, you shouldn't miss this one mountain. Apart from the easy hikes, the view at the top is second to none! You will feel like you are floating above the clouds. Of course, it could be an excellent spot, too, right?

24. Kapoposang Island

Kapoposang Island offers the beauty of coral reefs, which may not be easy to find now. If you love beach walks, this one is definitely the place for you!

25. Lae-Lae Island

Lae-Lae Island is another island near Makassar City that you shouldn't miss! This island is home to about two thousand local residents. Because it is a popular destination, the facilities are complete. You can even rent a gazebo upon arrival.

26. Fort Rotterdam

For those of you who like historical tourism, Fort Rotterdam could be the right destination for you. Fort Rotterdam or Fort Ujung Padang used to function as a fortress during the war. Now, after maintenance, this place has become one of the popular destinations in Makassar.

27. Kampili Dam

At first glance, this dam is no different from other dams in general. But, once you reach the bottom, the scene immediately changes! Because there are winding rock formations, this place looks unique and is perfect for taking photos.

28. Balla Lompoa Museum

Various collections and relics from the Gowa Kingdom are neatly stored in this one museum. If you like tours to unique museums with complete collections and interactive activities, you can try them here.

29. Chinatown Makassar

Cultural tourism lovers will love to visit Chinatown Makassar. Here, you can see typical Chinese buildings, including temples, then continue your journey with a culinary tour. Besides being delicious and having a lot of choices, the price is also affordable!

30. Lake Tanralili

The lake's name, which the Loe Valley surrounds, means 'cannot be conquered'. So, you must have imagined the journey to this place, right? Yup, it does take a little more effort to pass through a challenging but fun route before arriving at the lake. But, your trip will definitely be worth it once you see first-hand its photogenic beauty.