Things To Do
in Barru

Barru is a coastal town in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of the region, including lush hills and traditional villages. The town is famous for its fishing industry and vibrant local markets.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through traditional music, dance, and handicrafts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Barru
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby beach for a relaxing afternoon of sunbathing and swimming.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Indonesian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the waterfront to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Barru's history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Take a guided hike in the nearby hills to explore the scenic landscapes and enjoy panoramic views.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance to experience local music and dance traditions.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-7
Coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi fare (within town)$2-5
🍦Ice cream$1
🛍️Souvenirs$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers
  • Public transportation may be limited
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Barru

Visit one of these nice places.

Barru Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Traditional Fishermen's Village

Capture the essence of local life with colorful boats and traditional houses.

Hills of Barru

Offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and lush greenery, ideal for landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Barru

Barru offers a diverse culinary experience, combining traditional flavors with fresh seafood from the surrounding waters.

Barru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish marinated in spices, often served with rice and sambal.

Must-Try!

Coto Makassar

A traditional beef soup with spices, originating from Makassar but popular in Barru.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Barru Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling satay, fried snacks, and traditional desserts throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Barru has a tropical climate characterized by a wet and dry season. The dry season from May to September features warm temperatures and little rain, while the wet season from October to April brings increased humidity and regular rainfall. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.

Use the Right Hand

Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items.

Respect Local Customs

Be polite and courteous; greetings are important in local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Barru is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. It is best to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Barru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred; however, some restaurants accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (May - September)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Wet Season (October - April)

Frequent rain showers; be prepared for wet conditions but enjoy lush landscapes.

Ramadan (varies each year)

Observe local customs during fasting; many restaurants may close during the day.

Festive Season (December)

Cultural events and celebrations are common; a great time to experience local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Barru at Night

Barru's nightlife is more laid-back compared to larger cities. While there are few bars, local coffee shops and eateries often stay open late, providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Occasionally, cultural events and performances take place in the town square, offering a taste of local music and dance.

Hiking in Barru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Bawakaraeng

A challenging hike with stunning views at the summit, located about 60 km from Barru.

Mount Lompobattang

An accessible hike offering picturesque landscapes and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Barru by plane.

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG)

Located approximately 150 km from Barru, this airport services domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Barru is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most shops, eateries, and markets are located. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic. Exploring on foot allows you to enjoy the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Bugis

The majority ethnic group in Barru, known for their maritime culture and traditional practices.

Javanese Migrants

A significant number of Javanese have settled in Barru, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and followed in Barru, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Badminton

Badminton is a popular sport among locals, with many playing casually in parks and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Barru is generally light, with most areas easily navigable by foot or motorbike. Public transportation options include small buses and ojek (motorcycle taxis), which are common for getting around. Be cautious of pedestrians, as traffic can become congested in market areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Barru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians; inquire at restaurants.

Halal Food

Most local food is halal, but it's good to ask about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Barru are basic, with a few clinics and a regional hospital available. For serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Makassar. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide