Remote Sulawesi has some outstanding natural and cultural attractions if you are willing to endure the lack of infrastructure. Its greatest highlights are natural, such as its superlative underwater scene and lush volcanic interior. The few towns that exist in Sulawesi are interesting in their own rustic and frontier-style manner. Regional capitals like Makassar, Manado and Kendari are the hubs of urban life and provide some memorable encounters.

Benteng Sungguminasa
This fortress-palace was once the home of the Sultan of Gowa, the ancient rulers of Sulawesi before the arrival of the Dutch. The sultan’s residence has been converted into the Museum Balla Lompoa, housing an eclectic array of relics collected by the sultan during his reign.

Bunaken National Marine Park
Even among Indonesia’s hundreds of stunning dive sites, Bunaken stands out as one of the most impressive on earth. Scuba divers come from all over the world to marvel at the abundance of rare coral and fish, and the sheer headwalls that are so fascinating to explore. The park is famous for its visibility of 35 metres in the dry season and the balmy water makes it a pleasure to dive.

Dumoga Bone National Park
Nature lovers who want to get deep into the undeveloped forests of Sulawesi should plan to visit this spectacular national park 260 kilometres from Manado. Its hilly terrain is blanketed in old-growth forest that is full of rare species of birds and animals. You’ll need to arrange an entry permit in advance from the Nature Conservation Office in Manado and hire a guide, but this is one park that guarantees a lesson in unspoilt (and uncrowded) natural splendour.

Makassar (Ujung Padang)
Sulawesi’s largest and most important city is the main gateway to the region and the liveliest destination in this remote part of Indonesia. On the surface it may appear dull, but Makassar has incredible seafood restaurants and a rare nightlife scene. The sunsets at Losari Beach could grace a postcard nearly every evening, and old Fort Rotterdam provides an interesting taste of the city’s Dutch colonial period.

Manado
The capital of north Sulawesi is a safe and friendly place that makes a great base for exploring the myriad sea and land attractions in the area. There isn’t much to see in Manado itself, but the people will ensure you have an enjoyable visit. Nearby is the amazing diving at Bunaken and the gorgeous volcanoes that surround the town of Tomohon. Visit Manado’s Ban Hin Kiong Temple for a rare example of cultural architecture. Sam Ratulangie Airport is a major transit point in Sulawesi, so chances are you’ll spend some time in Manado.

Tangkoko National Park
One of Sulawesi’s few national parks is the best place in the region to catch a glimpse of the rare tarsiers that live in the trees. They only come down after dark, so this is a great place to hire a guide with a good torch and head out for an adventure. The rolling green hills are teeming with other exotic wildlife and birds during the day, and a number of resorts offer accommodation.

Togian Islands
This pristine archipelago in northern Sulawesi should be a top destination if you’re looking for a rich unspoilt marine environment. Thriving coral gardens teeming with marine life, along with some rare creatures like the giant coconut crab provide all the exotic scene needed. Charming beachside resorts make this an ideal spot in Sulawesi to chill out.