Things To Do
in Buton

Buton is an island located in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The island is characterized by its pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique local traditions. It has a diverse population, with a mix of indigenous communities and migrants contributing to its vibrant culture.

Visitors to Buton can experience traditional music, dance, and festivals while enjoying the tranquility of its unspoiled landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Natural Wonders
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Nirwana Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the Buton Fortress, a historical site offering panoramic views of the island.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the traditional village of Waode Buri to learn about local crafts and customs.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market in Baubau, where you can find handicrafts and fresh produce.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance in the town square.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15-25
🚗Transportation (Taxi)$1-3
🛍️Souvenirs$5-20
Coffee$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and pristine beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Variety of outdoor activities and experiences.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to urban areas.
  • Transportation can be challenging in remote areas.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Tolong" - Please

Places to Visit in Buton

Visit one of these nice places.

Nirwana Beach

Known for its clear waters and white sandy beaches, it's a perfect spot for sunset photography.

Buton Fortress

Capture historical architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Waode Buri Village

A picturesque village showcasing traditional houses and local life, ideal for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buton

Buton offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that showcase the island's rich flavors and ingredients.

Buton Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sate Buton

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with a spicy peanut sauce.

Must-Try!

Papeda

A traditional dish made from sago starch, served with a rich fish soup.

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish seasoned with local herbs and spices, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Baubau Market

A bustling local market where you can sample street food and buy fresh produce.

Pasar Malam

Night market offering a variety of street food options, including fried snacks and desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buton experiences a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. The dry season (June to September) offers sunny days and minimal rainfall, while the rainy season (October to March) brings increased precipitation, contributing to the island's lush greenery. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders in the community.

Dress Modestly

Dressing modestly, especially in rural areas, is important to respect local customs.

Polite Greetings

Use polite greetings and gestures, such as a smile and nod, when meeting locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Buton is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding secluded areas at night and keeping belongings secure. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets, and consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Buton

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some larger establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (June - September)

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

Rainy Season (October - March)

Frequent rain showers, but also lush landscapes; be prepared for muddy trails.

Festive Season (December)

Enjoy local festivals and celebrations, experiencing vibrant cultural displays.

Transitional Season (April - May)

Weather can be unpredictable, bringing both rain and sunshine; a good time for fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Buton at Night

The nightlife in Buton is relatively laid-back, with a mix of local cafes and open-air restaurants. While there are no large nightclubs, visitors can enjoy live music performances and cultural shows at community gatherings. Beachfront bars offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks while watching the sunset.

Hiking in Buton

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Wolio

A popular hiking destination offering challenging trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking Trails in Wakatobi National Park

Explore various trails in this nearby national park, known for its diverse ecosystem and stunning scenery.

Airports

How to reach Buton by plane.

Betoambari Airport (BUW)

Located in Baubau, this airport serves domestic flights connecting to major cities in Indonesia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Buton, particularly the town of Baubau, is moderately walkable with sidewalks in some areas. However, some attractions may be spread out, requiring transportation for longer distances. Exploring local markets and the beach area on foot is enjoyable and safe.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Butonese

The indigenous people of Buton, known for their rich cultural traditions and community-oriented lifestyle.

Migrants from Other Regions

People from other parts of Indonesia who have settled in Buton, contributing to the island's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball; popular among locals.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Buton is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or scooters for transportation. Public transportation options include minivans and shared taxis, which are affordable but may not follow strict schedules. Road conditions can vary, so be prepared for some bumpy rides.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buton.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is common, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially rice and vegetable-based options.

Halal Food

Most local food is halal; however, it’s best to confirm with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Buton are limited, with a few local clinics and hospitals available. For serious medical conditions, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Kendari for better services. Always carry basic medications and consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide