Sulawesi is one of the largest islands in the Indonesian archipelago, but it's often overlooked by travelers due to the political instability that has rocked the center of the island. We asked nomad, Morgan for her tips on exploring this misunderstood island.
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- Dangers in Central Sulawesi
- Safe Places to Go
- Adventure Activities
- Wildlife Experiences
- Cultural Encounters
- Tana Toraja
Dangers in Central Sulawesi
The ongoing political instability in Central Sulawesi has put travelers off visiting the entire island. Fueled by
While tensions have calmed down recently, it's always important to check for up-to-date travel information prior to your departure, as the situation can change quickly.
Safe Places to Go
Whilst Central Sulawesi might be fraught with instability, the rest of the island is safe for travelers. In fact, as the 11th largest island in the world, there are plenty of places to explore.
Of the island's six provinces, the North, West, South and South East provinces of Sulawesi offer safe travel and stunning natural beauty.
North Sulawesi is the perfect stepping stone to discovering wildlife on land and in the sea, while West Sulawesi offers the chance to experience traditional village life.
South Sulawesi is the gateway to the famed Toraja highlands, where the
Adventure Activities
One of Sulawesi's biggest drawcards for many travelers is
For some of the best diving in the world, there's the Bunaken National Park, in the coral triangle in North Sulawesi.
Located off the
Wildlife Experiences
The Tangkoko National Park in North Sulawesi offers an authentic jungle experience. Here, you'll have the chance to spot wild tarsiers (super-cute primates) and the black-crested macaque.
Many of the wildlife experiences in Sulawesi are only possible with a guide; it's important to always choose a reputable and ethical tour company when visiting any nature sites in Sulawesi.
Cultural Encounters
The Bugis are one of the largest ethnic groups in Indonesia and traditionally occupy the southern part of Sulawesi. Tied to the sea, the Buginese are known for their ocean travels and have settled along coastlines across Indonesia.
For an insight into local life, visit some of the traditional Bugis villages, where the houses are still built on stilts over the water.
Tana Toraja Culture
One of the major cultural rituals that
Funeral ceremonies are a big deal in
A word of warning if you're planning on visiting Toraja during
Want to know more about Indonesia? Listen to the World Nomads podcast. With around 17,000 islands to choose from, where are the must visits , and if you have your surfboard, best surf breaks? Hear the tale of a man chased by headhunters, and tips for traveling the world solo.
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2 Comments
Nicely written and great travell recommendation! It really draws you in and makes us want to travel to Sulawesi again right now! We felt safe the whole three years we lived there (Wakatobi). Unfortunately, we have only seen the Minahasa Highlands, Lembeh and Wakatobi region.
Sulawesi offers some of the best diving of the world.
You're missing what the locals know. Makassar, the largest city on Sulawesi and in the eastern half of the country, is known as a foodie town. Good to set aside a few dsys to try some local specialties like Coto Makassar, Konro, Ikan Bakar, and a dozen ways to enjoy pisang (bananas). And that's just the tip of the culinary iceberg.