Embark on an 18-day journey across Sulawesi, where every stop offers something extraordinary! Start in lively Makassar, relax on the pristine beaches of Bira, and explore the peaceful lakes of Sengkang. Discover the ancient traditions and dramatic landscapes of Toraja, then end with a tropical escape to the stunning Togian Islands. This adventure is perfect for travelers looking to dive into Sulawesi’s rich culture, natural beauty, and hidden gems.
Itinerary
Day 1: Makassar
Arrival at Makassar Airport, welcome, and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2: Makassar – Bira
Drive to Bira, located on the southern tip of the island, with a stop to visit the renowned ship-building yards in Tanaberu, famous for producing some of the finest wooden boats in Sulawesi — and perhaps all of Indonesia. Here, craftsmen still use traditional techniques without construction plans, relying solely on skills passed down from father to son. These pinisi schooners (large cargo ships) can reach over 30 meters in length and weigh nearly 200 tons. In the afternoon, enjoy some relaxation by the water.
Overnight at Bara Coco Bungalows.
Day 3: Bira – Liukang
Enjoy a leisurely day in Bira, where you can unwind on its stunning beaches or embark on a snorkeling trip to Liukang Island. Savor a delicious lunch on the island before returning to your hotel in the afternoon to relax and take in the serene surroundings.
Overnight at Bara Coco Bungalows.
Day 4: Bira – Sinjai – Soppeng – Sengkang
Leave Bira and journey through Sinjai on the way to Soppeng, where you’ll witness the enchanting sight of flying foxes resting in the trees above the town. Continue to Sengkang to explore the serene Tempe Lake, known for its floating houses and picturesque views, a perfect way to end the day.
Overnight at a hotel near Lake Tempe
Day 5: Sengkang – Bamba Puang Valley – Toraja
The journey from Sengkang to Rantepao includes a stop at the breathtaking Bamba Puang Valley, where you can rest and admire the stunning views of Mount Nona. After taking in the beauty of the valley, the trip continues through picturesque landscapes. By evening, you’ll arrive in Rantepao, check into your hotel, and enjoy a free evening to relax and unwind.
Day 6 to 7: Discovering Toraja
Spend two days exploring the fascinating Toraja land, with an itinerary tailored around any local ceremonies taking place, where you’ll have the chance to participate. The Toraja people live in unique boat-shaped houses and revere buffaloes, believed to guide the souls of the deceased to their ancestors. Their elaborate funeral ceremonies, lasting several days, and the practice of hanging graves on cliffs are famous worldwide.
Explore traditional villages with their iconic Tongkonan family homes, visit the cliffs of Lemo with their effigies of the deceased (Tau Tau), the Londa caves, and the royal tombs of Suaya. Enjoy a short walk in Tampangallo, and if timing allows, visit the vibrant markets in either Makale or Rantepao.
If a funeral ceremony is taking place, it is possible to include it in the program.
Overnight with a local family.
Day 8 to 9: Trekking to Rantepao – Batutumonga
In the morning, continue your exploration with a visit to the village of Akung to learn about the Toraja way of life. Hikers will then embark on a 2.5-hour trek through bamboo forests and rice fields, leading to the mountain village of Batutumonga. The scenic route offers stunning views of terraced rice fields. Upon arrival at a small mountain lodge, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley and surrounding fields.
For those interested, take a short walk around the village to the primary school or a longer hike to Lokomata, where the entire village is buried beneath a giant rock. Overnight in a traditional Toraja house, where you’ll experience basic but unique accommodations with a shared bathroom and cold water. The location, however, is truly exceptional.
The next day, after breakfast with a view of the valley, take a leisurely 2-hour descent to Tikala along a simple path (or by minibus for those who prefer). Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet local children on their way home from school.
Overnight at the hotel in Rantepao
Day 10: Toraja – Tentena
The journey from Toraja to Tentena begins early at 7 AM, covering approximately 10 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning valleys, tropical forests, and palm plantations. A lunch stop is planned in Pendolo before arriving in Tentena by late afternoon. After checking in at the hotel, enjoy a free evening to relax.
Day 11: Tentena and Lake Poso
Visit the crystal-clear Salu Opa Waterfall, located on the edge of a tropical forest, and take a stroll through lush cocoa plantations. Lunch can be enjoyed either by the waterfall or back at the hotel. Spend the afternoon unwinding and swimming in the serene waters of Lake Poso.
Days 12: Tentena – Ampana
The trip from Tentena to Ampana is a scenic 7-8 hour drive, taking you through lush tropical forests, winding roads, and charming local villages. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Sulawesi’s natural beauty and get a glimpse of the vibrant local culture. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Ampana, a peaceful coastal town and the gateway to the Togian Islands. After checking into your accommodation, relax and unwind by the sea.
Day 13: Ampana – Togian Islands
Depart at 9:00 AM speedboat. Upon arrival in Wakai, you will continue the journey by local boat to the island where you will be staying.
Stay for few nights at the Kadidiri Paradise Resort, a resort with cozy wooden bungalows, both beachfront and overwater.
The Togian Islands are a beautiful archipelago of 56 islands, located just 30 km south of the equator in Tomini Bay. These volcanic islands are covered in tropical forests and surrounded by coral reefs, with water temperatures averaging 31°C and underwater visibility often reaching 40-50 meters.
The islands are home to rare wildlife, including macaques, parrots, and babirusas. There are 37 villages on the islands, inhabited by different cultures such as the Babongko, Togian, Saluan, and Bajau sea nomads. During your stay, you’ll explore Unauna and its active volcano, Malenge, the local wildlife, and the Bajau villages, while also enjoying the incredible underwater scenery.
Day 16: Togian – Ampana
Take a public boat back to Ampana, marking the end of your time in the Togian Islands. Spend the night at Hotel Oasis or Marina Cottage, relaxing and reflecting on your incredible journey.
Day 17 – 18: Boat to Ampana or Gorontalo – Option for transfer to Palu, Luwuk or Manado
On Day 17, take a boat ride back to Ampana to wrap up your Sulawesi journey. From here, you can choose transfers to Palu, Luwuk, Gorontalo or Manadi. Overnight at the hotel in Ampana or Gorontalo. Driver will take you to the airport or youe next destination on the next day.
Price
| Number of people | 2 | 3 to 4 | 5 to 6 | 7 to 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per person | IDR 37,350,000 USD 2,360 | IDR 31,550,000 USD 1,990 | IDR 23,150,000 USD 1,460 | IDR 22,600,000 USD 1,425 |
- Accommodation in 3* hotel (Misiliana, Santai, or Luta Resort) in Rantepao
- Accommodation in dive resort (Kadidiri Paradise, Araya, Bolilanga) in Togian Island
- This tour can be customized to meet your needs, just use the form on this page or contact us directly
- For booking 10 people or more, please contact us for a personalized quotation.
- Kindly book the tour in advance as accommodations are limited and fill up quickly
Inclusions
- All accommodations during the trip including breakfast
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included in Togian Islands
- Lunch & dinner for overnight at traditional house in Toraja and Homestay in Batutumonga
- Private car and driver, fuel, parking, toll fees
- English-speaking guide
- Private boat in Sengkang, return public speedboat to Togian, return transfer from Wakai to nearby island
- Entrance fees in Toraja & Togian National Park
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
- Snorkeling gear or scuba diving gear
- Donations, tips for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
