Sulawesi Adventure: The Culture of Tana Toraja
Sulawesi Adventure: The Culture of Tana Toraja
$1449
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Sulawesi with the "Sulawesi Adventure: The Culture of Tana Toraja" tour. Discover the unique cultural tapestry of Tana Toraja, renowned for its otherworldly burial sites and traditional villages. Experience the serene beauty of Lake Tempe on a boat tour, exploring the floating homes of the Bugis people. Visit the iconic Tongkonan houses in Ke’te Kesu’ and the historic Fort Rotterdam in Makassar. Enjoy a local Torajan lunch and witness the sacred Baby Tree and royal graves. Relax at Losari Beach and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Travel seamlessly with a mix of private vehicles and planes, and unwind in comfortable hotels for eight nights. This cultural exploration offers a blend of history, sightseeing, and local culinary delights, providing an unforgettable insight into the rich traditions of Sulawesi. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ubud
Location: Ubud
Accommodation Name: Champlung Sari Hotel
Welcome to Indonesia! Arrive at any time.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Ubud
Location: Ubud
Accommodation Name: Champlung Sari Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ubud is often considered the cultural heart of Bali. Today you have the opportunity to explore however you'd like. From monkey forests, local cooking classes, making spiritual offerings and Balinese village experiences, your options for today are endless.FREE TIME: FULL DAY Today is yours to explore Ubud how you prefer!
Day 3: Ubud/Makassar
Location: Ubud, Makassar
Accommodation Name: Aston Makassar Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our trip continues with a flight from Bali to Makassar, the largest city in Sulawesi. After we arrive to our hotel, enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
FREE TIME: Spend the afternoon at leisure in Makassar.
Day 4: Makassar/Sengkang
Location: Makassar, Maros, Sengkang
Accommodation Name: BBC Hotel Sengkang
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Makassar this morning after breakfast and head north to Maros, known for its absolutely stunning karst formations called tanggul. After the drive, load into a small boat to arrive to the village. Learn about the importance of the rice paddies and their unique techniques in this village, and admire the incredible natural beauty that these villagers call home. After the tour of the village, drive to Sengkang for the evening and settle into the hotel.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: To arrive to the village, we take a short boat ride which demonstrates how vital these waterways have been to this area for centuries. We'll walk through the rice fields surrounded by towering limestone cliffs or "tanggul" and admire the jagged karst formations. These structures are millions of years old and were shaped by erosion. We'll pass by friendly locals who might be tending to their crops or fishing and learn how these rice fields are cultivated using traditional methods passed down through generations. You’ll also learn about the cultural importance of rice in Indonesia and the spiritual connection many people have with the land. After the hike, dive into a delicious local meal of authentic South Sulawesi cuisine.
Day 5: Sengkang/Tana Toraja Regency
Location: Lake Tempe, Tana Toraja, Puncak Lakawan
Accommodation Name: Luta Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day begins with a boat tour of Lake Tempe, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Indonesia. Explore the floating homes of the Bugis people, meet the locals and learn about the unique life of this area. Continue on to Tana Toraja, the land of ancestral spirits and unique traditions and easily one of the most fascinating places in Indonesia. This region is famous for its indigenous culture, dramatic landscapes, and elaborate funeral ceremonies. Although we cannot guarantee we'll see one of their famous funeral processions, we have the unique opportunity to visit and connect with the local community to discover them in depth.
Please note that we will adjust the itinerary for the chance to join a Traditional Torajan Funeral Experience:
In Tana Toraja, funerals are not just solemn events; they are grand celebrations of life that reflect the deep connection between the living and the dead. If a funeral ceremony is taking place during your visit, our CEO will suggest altering the planned activities to allow you to witness this extraordinary cultural event. This decision ensures that travelers have the opportunity to experience one of the most iconic aspects of Torajan culture—a truly unforgettable moment. These funeral processions happen fairly often, however, it is not guaranteed that one will take place during your trip. We will not artificially put on a funeral for travelers but instead will prioritize joining authentic experiences whenever we can.
Why Prioritize a Torajan Funeral?
Torajan funerals are among the most elaborate and meaningful ceremonies in the world, often lasting several days and involving entire communities. These rituals are steeped in tradition, symbolizing respect for ancestors and ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife. Participating in or observing such an event provides a profound insight into the values, beliefs, and social structures of the Torajan people. We are expect to be respectful of the local customs, especially during funeral ceremonies. Your CEO will brief you on appropriate behavior and attire.
ACTIVITY: Embark on a scenic boat ride across Lake Tempe, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Indonesia. Known for its serene beauty and traditional floating villages, Lake Tempe offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who call it home. The Bugis people, the dominant ethnic group in this area, have adapted to living on the water, building floating houses and engaging in traditional fishing practices. As you cruise along the lake, you'll see these floating homes, often adorned with colorful decorations. Interact with villagers and learn about their way of life, including fishing techniques and sustainable living practices.
ACTIVITY: Nestled high in the mountains, Puncak Lakawan offers panoramic views of the lush green valleys and rolling hills of South Sulawesi. This picturesque spot is perfect for taking photos and enjoying a leisurely lunch amidst nature.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 6: Tana Toraja Regency
Location: Lemo Village, Suaya, Londa, Kete Kesu
Accommodation Name: Luta Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive through the countryside this morning toward Lemo Village and enjoy breathtaking views of terraced rice fields, rolling hills, and traditional villages dotted along the way. In Lemo, we have the opportunity to witness some of the ionic burial sites carved into limestone caves. Continue on to visit Suaya to learn about the famous Baby Tree, a sacred tree where the spirits of deceased infants are believed to rest, and visit the graves of the royal family in the area. Next we head to Londa, another ancient burial site that highlights the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Torajan people, followed by a traditional Torajan lunch. Conclude the day's discoveries with a walk through the Kete Kesu village, and admire the architecture and artwork.
ACTIVITY: Suaya is known for its unique and poignant burial practice for infants. When a baby dies before teething, it is believed that its spirit needs a safe and nurturing place to return to nature. The body is placed inside a hollowed-out space in a large tree, known as a The Baby Tree or "Tarra' Tree." As the tree heals and grows, it is believed to absorb the baby's spirit, allowing it to become part of the natural world. Then pay a visit to the royal graves and marvel at the craftsmanship of the stone carvings.
ACTIVITY: Visit Lemo Village, a fascinating site renowned for its Tau Tau statues—life-sized wooden effigies representing the deceased—and hanging graves carved into limestone cliffs. Lemo offers a unique glimpse into the Torajan people's deeply spiritual approach to death and ancestor worship.
Lemo is one of the most iconic burial sites in Toraja, showcasing the unique relationship between the Torajan people and death. The towering limestone cliffs are adorned with Tau Tau. These statues, often dressed in traditional clothing and adorned with personal belongings, stand guard over the graves carved into the rock face. The higher the grave, the higher the status of the deceased in life.
ACTIVITY: Londa is known for its traditional cave burial sites. Here, coffins are placed inside natural caves or carved niches on the cliffs. Over time, the coffins decay, leaving behind skeletal remains and personal belongings. The sites are considered a sacred place where the spirits of the ancestors reside. Walk through the pathways leading to the caves and observe the various stages of preservation for the coffins. Reflect on the deep connection between life, death, and nature in Torajan philosophy.
ACTIVITY: Savor a delicious meal featuring authentic Torajan food. Try the local cuisine like papasan, grilled meat wrapped in banana leaves, and burasa, sticky rice cooked in coconut milk.
ACTIVITY: Visit Ke’te Kesu’, one of the best-preserved traditional Torajan villages. Here, you can see the iconic Tongkonan, "ancestral houses," with their distinctive boat-shaped roofs, adorned with intricate carvings. Learn about the collection of old rice barns called "Alang," important structures in Torajan society. The woodcarvings on the Tongkonan and Alang depict symbols of prosperity, fertility, and social status. The people of Ke’te Kesu’ are renowned as highly skilled craftsmen. Unique ornaments of bamboo and stone are carved in abstract and geometric patterns.
Day 7: Tana Toraja Regency
Location: Tana Toraja
Accommodation Name: Luta Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you have the opportunity to explore the incredible Tana Toraja area however you'd like. With so many unique and interesting aspects to the local culture, opt to delve deeper into what piques your interest the most. Choose to stay active on a trek or get hands-on with a cooking class.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy the opportunity to explore Tana Toraja how you'd like to during today's free day.
Day 8: Tana Toraja Regency/Makassar
Location: Tana Toraja Regency, Makassar, Fort Rotterdam, Paotere Harbor, Masjid 99 Kubah, Losari Beach
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to the amazing Tana Toraja area early this morning as we return to Makassar. Drive to the airport, then board a flight to arrive to Makassar by late morning. After free time for lunch, explore the historic city of Makassar alongside your CEO. Start at Fort Rotterdam, the 17th century fort, once a major trading hub in Southeast Asia. Then drive to Paotere Harbor for a walk to see the pinisi ships, followed by a visit to the Makassar's most beautiful mosque Masjid 99 Kubah. Finish today with a relaxing sunset at Losari beach, an amazing way to finish up your trip around Sulawesi.
ACTIVITY: Explore Fort Rotterdam and visit the historic Dutch site, cannons and walls. Admire the scenic views of the harbor and take some time to see the museum of colonial history to learn about Fort Roterdam's role as a major trading hub in Southeast Asia.
ACTIVITY: Visit Paotere Harbor to see the traditional Pinisi ships of the Bugis ethnic group, one of the three largest in Sulawesi and known for their seafaring and warring skills. Stroll along the harbor and observe these iconic wooden sailing vessels up close. You may see workers repairing, loading, or unloading the ships, offering a glimpse into their daily operations. Take stunning photos of the colorful Pinisi ships against the backdrop of the sea. These ships are not only functional but also works of art, with intricate designs and vibrant colors.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACTIVITY: Visit Masjid Kubah 99 Asmaul Husna, one of Makassar's most beautiful and unique mosques. This architectural marvel is named after the 99 names of Allah and features 99 golden domes symbolizing each name. If we can, we'll step inside to explore the spacious prayer hall, adorned with intricate decorations and calligraphy. Learn about the significance of the mosque in the local community and its role as a symbol of religious harmony in South Sulawesi.
ACTIVITY: Relax and enjoy the sunset at Losari Beach. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and admire the beautiful views of the sun dipping below the horizon. Watch locals gather to celebrate the end of the day with music and dance. Opt to sample street food from vendors selling grilled seafood, satay, or fresh fruit juices as you breathe in the sea air.
Day 9: Makassar
Location: Makassar
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
If ending your tour in Makassar, book a domestic flight back to Jakarta or Bali and allow for 4 hours to transit to the international airport to catch your onward flight back to your final destination.
What's Included
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group upon arrival.
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Discover Moment
Explore Ubud at your leisure.
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Foodie Moment
Enjoy a local Torajan lunch in Londa.
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Maros Village Adventure
Experience the stunning karst formations and learn about local rice paddies.
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Lake Tempe Boat Tour
Explore the floating homes of the Bugis people on Lake Tempe.
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Puncak Lakawan Visit
Enjoy panoramic views of South Sulawesi from Puncak Lakawan.
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Suaya Baby Tree & Royal Graves
Visit the sacred Baby Tree and the graves of the royal family.
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Lemo Village & Burial Site Exploration
Witness the iconic burial sites and Tau Tau statues in Lemo Village.
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Traditional Cave Burial Site of Londa
Explore the traditional cave burial sites in Londa.
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Local Torajan Lunch
Savor a traditional Torajan meal.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Indonesia are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
Mode of Transport
Private vehicle, plane, walking, boat.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 8 nights, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventure in Sulawesi.
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 15 years for this trip.
Local Dress
On Sulawesi you may encounter local funeral processions taking place. It would be important to dress modestly during this part of the tour, covering shoulders and knees.
Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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About Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts)
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Ubud
Your Foodie Moment: Local Torajan Lunch, Londa. Maros Village Adventure. Lake Tempe Boat Tour. Puncak Lakawan Visit. Suaya Baby Tree & Royal Graves. Lemo Village & Burial Site Exploration. Traditional Cave Burial Site of Londa. Local Torajan Lunch. Ke’te Kesu’ Traditional Torajan Village. Fort Rotterdam Visit. Masjid 99 Kubah Mosque visit. Free time in Ubud. Free time in Makassar & Tana Toraja. Transport to/from included activities. Internal airfare. ...more ...less -
Highlights
See first hand the incredible and unique culture of Tana Toraja in Sulawesi, Visit otherworldly grave and burial sites, Visit traditional villages and learn the fascinating funeral practices of the region.
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
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Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
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Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
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Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg 12.
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Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches
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Transport
Private vehicle, plane, walking, boat.
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Accommodation
Hotels (8nts)
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My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
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About Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts)
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Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you.
I Gusti Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport (DPS): Go to the Paging Area in front of the elevator at International Terminal's arrival hall.
Please note there is a common scam at the airport for non-G Adventures' drivers to pretend they are working for the company. It is very important to confirm your name and booking number with your airport transfer representative.
If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office Bangkok, Thailand
24/7 emergency number:
From outside Thailand: +66 92 338 9222
From within Thailand: 092 338 9222
G Adventures Local Representative (Indonesia)
Mr. Azhar : +62 813 376 18480
Mr. Edy: +62 811 380 3820
Ms. Periana: +62 811 380 3821
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999 -
Finishing Point Instructions
If ending your tour in Makassar, book a domestic flight back to Jakarta or Bali and allow for 4 hours to transit to the international airport to catch your onward flight back to your final destination.
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Packing List
Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear -
Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
Indonesia:
Please follow the below links for further information and application (for those eligible for a Visa On Arrival)
Visa on Arrival
Customs Declaration
If you require a visa to enter Indonesia, please begin the application process at least two weeks before departure.
Bali:
Effective February 14, 2024, Bali will implement the “Bali Tourist Levy” for all foreign tourists traveling to the island. This fee is 150,000 IDR (or $10 USD). Travellers can opt to pay this fee online or in person upon arrival to Bali. We strongly suggest every traveler pay before arrival to ease your entry and avoid queueing to pay upon arrival. The Balinese Government also highly recommends travellers to pay this fee before arrival to Bali.
Payments made before your arrival into Bali will take place through the “Love Bali System.” After successful payment, the system will provide you with a digital paid notification as proof. Make sure to hold on to that proof as it will be scanned by Bali Officials upon arrival to the island. Pay Tourist Levy here
If you do not pay the fee before arrival, a cashless payment must be made at your entry point. You will receive a printout proving your payment. This document must be kept safe as entry officials will scan the printout upon entering Bali.
For more information, please click here
Information is accurate as of April 1st, 2024. -
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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Optional Activities
Ubud
- Ubud Spiritual Tour
- Laplapan Village Cooking Class
- Medahan Village Happy Local Family Adventure
Kandora
- Toraja Village Trek
Tana Toraja Regency
- Toraja Cooking Class -
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling. -
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects. -
Local Dress
On Sulawesi you may encounter local funeral processions taking place. It would be important to dress modestly during this part of the tour, covering shoulders and knees.
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Minimum Age
Minimum age of 15 years for this trip.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
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Max Pax
16
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LGBTQ+ Safety
The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at G Adventures and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Monday
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025Sunday - Monday
Feb 15, 2026 - Feb 23, 2026Sunday - Monday
Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026Sunday - Monday
May 31, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026Sunday - Monday
Jul 26, 2026 - Aug 03, 2026Sunday - Monday
Aug 23, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026Sunday - Monday
Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026Sunday - Monday
Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026Sunday - Monday
Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026Sunday - Monday
Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 04, 2027Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Sulawesi Adventure: The Culture of Tana Toraja
9 Days Starting in Ubud, Indonesia and ending in Makassar, Indonesia
Visiting: Ubud, Makassar, Maros, Sengkang, Lake Tempe, Tana Toraja, Puncak Lakawan, Lemo Village, Suaya, Londa, Kete Kesu, Tana Toraja Regency, Fort Rotterdam, Paotere Harbor, Masjid 99 Kubah, Losari Beach ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26458
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
15-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual