Weird & Unusual Attractions in Makassar, Indonesia
1. Mariso Waterfall
A unique waterfall that flows upwards during low tide, defying gravity.
- Rare Phenomenon: One of the only two known upward-flowing waterfalls in the world.
- Tidal Influence: The flow changes direction based on tidal movements.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a picturesque view of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
2. Takka Batu Graveyard
An ancient graveyard filled with stone coffins dating back to the Bugis kingdom.
- Historical Significance: Preserves the cultural heritage of the Bugis people.
- Stone Coffins: Unusual burial method using stone sarcophagi instead of traditional wooden coffins.
- Architectural Wonders: Each stone coffin is a unique piece of craftsmanship.
3. Lempo Beach
A beach where the sea water tastes like lemonade due to mineral content.
- Natural Mineral Content: The minerals found in the seawater give it a lemony taste.
- Unusual Taste: The taste of the sea is unlike any other beach in the world.
- Swimming and Relaxation: Offers a unique swimming and relaxation experience.
4. Toraja Land of the Sky
A cultural landscape with tombs carved into cliffs and hanging coffins.
- Cliffside Tomb Carvings: Ancestral graves are intricately carved directly into the cliff faces.
- Hanging Coffins: Coffins are placed on wooden supports, suspended from cliff edges.
- Taraja Cultural Experience: Provides a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.
5. Bajau Underwater Homes
Floating houses built on stilts over the sea by the Bajau Sea Gypsies.
- Marine Living Environment: Residents live harmoniously with marine life.
- Floating Architecture: Unique floating homes built on stilts over the sea.
- Sea Gypsy Culture: Gain insight into the unique lifestyle and traditions of the Bajau Sea Gypsies.
6. Wajo Fortress
An ancient fortress with a mysterious underground tunnel system.
- Underground Tunnels: A labyrinth of tunnels beneath the fortress remains unexplored.
- Military History: The fortress has played a significant role in regional conflicts.
- Architectural Marvel: Impressive stone walls and strategic design make it a marvel of architecture.
7. Pongkwat Puncak Aja Cave
A cave with stalactites and stalagmites resembling natural candles.
- Natural Candle Formations: Stalactites and stalagmites have formed into the shape of candles.
- Spiritual Significance: Holds spiritual significance for the local Bugis people.
- Underground Exploration: Offers an exciting opportunity to explore a subterranean world.
8. Sand Dunes of Tanjung Bale
Large sand dunes along the coastline with stunning views of the sunset.
- Natural Sand Formations: Gigantic sand dunes formed by wind erosion.
- Coastal Views: Offers a breathtaking view of the sunset over the sea.
- Desert Landscape: Experience a desert-like landscape in Southeast Asia.
9. Lokkese Island
An island with a lighthouse built inside a large coral rock.
- Coral Rock Lighthouse: The only known lighthouse built within a coral rock.
- Marine Life: Abundant marine life and snorkeling opportunities.
- Historical Significance: The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation.
10. Limestone Cave of Wetondobangun
A limestone cave with unique calcite formations resembling stalactites and stalagmites.
- Calcite Formations: Unique calcite formations found only in this cave.
- Subterranean Exploration: Offers an exciting opportunity to explore a subterranean world.
- Cave Conservation Efforts: Efforts are being made to conserve and protect the cave's unique features.
11. Sabangue Beach
A beach where the water appears to boil due to a unique geological phenomenon.
- Geological Phenomenon: The seawater is trapped in pockets, creating a 'boiling' effect.
- Natural Wonders: A unique and breathtaking natural wonder.
- Swimming Experience: Offers a refreshing and unusual swimming experience.
12. Fort Rotterdam
A Dutch-era fort with an underground prison and cannons.
- Underground Prison: An underground dungeon used to house prisoners during the colonial era.
- Historical Significance: Plays an important role in Makassar's history and colonial past.
- Canon Display: Displays various types of cannons used during the Dutch colonial era.
13. Makassar Night Market
A bustling night market with exotic food, souvenirs, and traditional performances.
- Local Cuisine: Try unique local dishes such as cakalang (tuna) and gudeg.
- Souvenir Shopping: Pick up traditional handicrafts, textiles, and artwork.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional dances, music, and performances.
14. Pulau Losari
An island with a lighthouse that houses a museum dedicated to the Bugis and Makassarese people.
- Museum Experience: Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Bugis and Makassarese people.
- Marine Life: Abundant marine life and snorkeling opportunities.
- Lighthouse Views: Offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands.
15. Tana Toraja Buffalo Jumps
An ancient site where buffaloes are sacrificed by being pushed off cliffs.
- Ancestral Practices: A traditional practice associated with ancestor worship.
- Cliffside Views: Offers breathtaking views of the landscape and buffalo herds below.
- Cultural Preservation: Helps preserve ancient cultural practices and traditions.