Sulawesi Hotels
Sulawesi – A World of Natural and Cultural Wonders
Remote, rugged and rich in diversity, Sulawesi is an exotic world of wonders. While it is the world’s 11th biggest island and larger than Java, it only has a fraction of the population of its neighbor. With four long peninsulas – north, south, east and southeast – separated by rugged central highlands, Sulawesi often feels like four different lands. This has given rise to ancient customs and cultures that are still thriving today, such as the Torajan people who live in traditional Tongkonan houses. The largest city in Sulawesi is Makassar, a thriving port which has developed into metropolis of over 1.5 million people. Guests can explore the island’s colonial heritage at the 17th Century Fort Rotterdam or enjoy the 21st Century excitement of Trans Studio Makassar, one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks. Further north, Palu is nestled at the end of a long bay and offers access to natural attractions such as Lake Poso, while Manado, in the island’s far north, is a tropical seaside city at the gateway to Bunaken National Park, which attracts scuba dives from around the world. With so many unique experiences just waiting to be discovered, Sulawesi is like nowhere else on Earth.
Bunaken National Marine Park
Scuba divers should not miss the opportunity to explore Bunaken National Marine Park. This spectacular underwater world is nestled off the coast of North Sulawesi, close to Manado, and houses a wealth of tropical marine ecosystems, including brightly-coloured coral reefs. The 890-square kilometer area, which is famous for the purity and clarity of its water, is home to approximately 2,000 species of fish and many other major species such as dugongs, whales, dolphins, turtles, giant clams and more. There are about 25 separate dive sites in Bunaken, so new discoveries can be made on every dive. Bunaken National Marine Park forms part of the famous Coral Triangle, which has been nicknamed the “Amazon of the Seas” for its ecological diversity.
Lake Poso
Located deep in the heart of Sulawesi, Lake Poso is an evolutionary treasure trove that showcases this mysterious island’s rich and ancient wildlife. One of the largest and deepest lakes in Indonesia, it houses a variety of unique marine species, such as fish, crab and shrimp, that are found nowhere else on Earth. The surrounding area also supports rare mammals like the dwarf buffalo, tarsier and deer-pig. Guests can take a boat ride on the gently rippling water, visit traditional villages on the banks of the lake, discover beautiful blooms at the orchid park, trek to jungle waterfalls and even unwind on a sandy beach. For adventure-seeking travelers, a trip to Lake Poso feels like venturing into another world.
Losari Beach
For any visitor to Makassar, the largest city in Sulawesi, Losari Beach (Pantai Losari) is a small but iconic attraction which is famous for its sunset views. Located in the heart of the city, this semi-circular beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who can stroll along the soft sand, paddle in the sea or simply sit and admire the scenery – especially in the evening when the sun dips under the horizon. Losari Beach is also lined with sizzling street food stalls, many of which specialize in fresh local seafood and traditional dishes from South Sulawesi. The beach overlooks the spectacular “99 Domes Mosque”, one of Makassar’s new landmarks.
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Siladen Island
- Tangkoko Nature Reserve
- Togean Island
- Fort Rotterdam
- Tana Toraja
Top Things to Do
- Spectacular scuba diving in Bunaken and the Lembeh Strait
- Hike up Mount Dua Saudara
- Savor Manado’s spicy cuisine at The Boulevard, Wakeke Street and Kalasey Beach
- Discover the exotic beauty of Togean Island
- Visit Lake Poso, the third largest lake in Indonesia
- Take stunning sunset photos at Losari Beach, Makassar
- Visit the historical sites of Fort Rotterdam
- Taste the iconic local dessert, Es Pisang Ijo