Understand

The Saleyar Islands, with a population of approximately 57,000 on the main island and 24,000 on nearby islands, offer a captivating blend of cultures. The inhabitants are mainly a mixture of Makasars, Bugis, and the natives of Luvu and Buton. They speak the Makassar language and are primarily nominal Muslims, although various non-Muslim customs are still present. In this region, agriculture, fishing, seafaring, trade, salt preparation, and weaving sustain the islanders. The Saleyar Islands are not just a remote corner of Sulawesi but also a bustling hub of connectivity. Frequent movement occurs between this area and other parts of Sulawesi, as well as other parts of Indonesia. The islands boast excellent horses and numerous water buffaloes, holding the same importance for Celebes as Madura does for Java. Discover the vibrant and diverse culture of the Saleyar Islands!

Get in

When travelling to Selayar from Makassar in South Sulawesi, you have several transportation options:

• By plane: Wings Air offers daily flights to and from Selayar. The flight duration is approximately half an hour, and the cost is around Rp. 350k per person for a one-way trip.
• By bus: Buses depart daily from the Mallengkeri Bus Terminal in Makassar to Tanjung Bira Harbor. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, and the buses are then loaded onto a public ferry heading for Selayar, which takes an additional 2 hours. Once you arrive in Selayar, you can continue your journey to the main town of Banteng, which is about 1 hour away from the harbor.
• By car & ferry: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or take the car sharing option available at the Mallengkeri Bus Terminal in Makassar. The journey will take you to Bulukumba town. From there, you can take a 2-hour ferry ride from Tanjung Bira to Selayar. The ferry costs Rp. 25k per person for economy class. Upon arrival in Selayar, you may need to find transportation to Banteng town from the harbor. It is recommended to ask locals or drivers for assistance, and be prepared to pay if hitchhiking is not an option.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing