Tana Toraja Travel Guide
Situated in the northern mountains of South Sulawesi, Tana Toraja is a beautiful region with a traditional culture that involves an interesting burial ritual.
The mountainous top region of South Sulawesi ranges from 150 meters above sea level to over 3,000 meters, providing a stunning landscape of mountains and jungle. There is a regional airport with limited flights in Rantepao, making travel to Tana Toraja relatively easy.
The main attraction of Tana Toraja is the spectacular natural surrounds and the traditional culture. There are several tour companies offering overnight and day treks through the jungle, which are challenging and rewarding.
A must-visit while in Tana Toraja is the Tora Tora Art Gallery. Filled with local art works from past and present, the art gallery is a popular tourist attraction. Perhaps the best insight into Toraja culture, however, is witnessing local traditional funeral rites. These can be seen during the months of September and October, when most locals are buried.
Makale is the capital city of the Tana Toraja Regency and offers some interesting attractions to see as well as a host of restaurants and hotels.
Getting There & Away
Travelling to Tana Toraj is relatively painless, with the regional airport in Rantepao offering flights three times a week to the South Sulawesi capital city of Makassar. Makassar Airport has frequent flights to the international airports at Bali and Jakarta. It is also possible to take a private taxi or bus from Makassar to Tana Toraja although the journey will take in excess of 9 hours.