Lush green mountains and valleys under dramatic skies in Sulawesi, a highlight of the Soul of Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Culture Tour.

Soul of Sulawesi | 9-Days of Tana Toraja Culture, Cliff Graves & Coffee Country

📍 Indonesia | Guided | All Essentials

Highland culture, carved in stone. Journey from the coast to Tana Toraja for rice-terrace walks, sky-tipped tongkonan, tau-tau cliff graves, markets and coffee tastings—an easy–moderate, overland 9-day immersion.

Ubud → Makassar

Ubud → Makassar

Moderate | Ages 15+

Moderate | Ages 15+

Hotels

Hotels

200% CO₂  Offset

200% CO₂  Offset

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Traditional Tongkonan houses with moss-covered roofs in Tana Toraja, part of the Soul of Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Culture Tour.
Tour Overview

Soul of Sulawesi | 9-Days of Tana Toraja Culture, Cliff Graves & Coffee Country

Trade coast air for highland quiet as the road climbs into Tana Toraja. Days orbit Rantepao: soft walks through rice terraces, village lanes lined with sky-tipped tongkonan, and guided visits to cliff and cave graves watched by tau-tau effigies. Markets, woodcarvers, and coffee tastings fill the pauses. When appropriate and welcomed, your CEO provides context for local ceremonies—always observed with permission and respect.

Built for immersion, not hurry: unhurried stops, easy–moderate walks on uneven paths, and time to talk with artisans. Travel is mostly overland; nights are in Standard hotels/guesthouses—warmer at the coast, cooler in the hills (pack layers). Expect meaningful cultural insight, mountain views, and coffee you’ll remember by scent alone.

Quick Facts

  • Route (9 days): Coastal gateway → Rantepao/Tana Toraja (highlands) → return

  • Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level

  • Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (village paths, steps at heritage sites)

  • Transport: Overland vehicles; guided walks at sites and villages

  • Stays: Hotels/guesthouses in city and highland towns

Trip Highlights

  • Tana Toraja heritage: tongkonan architecture, woodcarving, ancestral traditions

  • Cliff & cave graves: guided visits to tau-tau sites and rock-hewn resting places

  • Village life & markets: meet artisans; taste local coffee and cacao

  • Highland trails: rice-terrace strolls and valley viewpoints

  • Cultural understanding: ethical, context-rich encounters with local guides

Good to Know

  • Respect first: Photos/ceremony visits only with permission.

  • Terrain: Steps, uneven stone—closed shoes recommended.

  • Weather swing: Warm coast, cooler highlands—layer up and carry a light rain shell.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Open | Live Dates & Availability
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Itinerary
Day 1 | Ubud — Welcome & First Meet-Up

Arrive at any time to Ubud’s leafy, temple-dotted hub. In the evening, meet your CEO and fellow travellers at the Welcome Moment—get the trip brief, swap intros, then (optionally) head out for a casual first dinner.

Stay: Champlung Sari Hotel (or similar), Ubud.

Included meals: None.

Included activities:Welcome Moment (meet your CEO & group).

Optional extras (own expense): Join the group for a local dinner.

Day 2 | Ubud — Your Discover Moment

Set your pace in Bali’s cultural heart: forests, temples, markets, yoga, cooking classes or a traditional massage—your day, your call.
Stay: Champlung Sari Hotel (or similar), Ubud.
Included meals: Breakfast.
Included activities: Discover Moment (full day free time in Ubud).
Optional extras (own expense):

  • Medahan Village Happy Local Family Adventure (walk, market, temples, rice paddies, local lunch)
  • Ubud Spiritual Tour (Widya Guna Foundation offering-making; Gunung Kawi; Tirta Empul holy bath; lunch)
  • Laplapan Village Cooking Class (hands-on Balinese favourites; lunch)
Day 3 | Ubud → Makassar — Fly to Sulawesi

Transfer to Denpasar, then fly to Makassar, Sulawesi’s largest city. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

Stay: Aston Makassar Hotel (or similar), Makassar.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Ubud → Denpasar (~1h30m, ~25 km); flight Denpasar → Makassar (~1h30m).

Free time: Afternoon at leisure in Makassar.

Day 4 | Makassar → Maros Karst & Village Walk → Sengkang

Depart Makassar after breakfast, heading north to Maros for its towering limestone tanggul formations. Board a small boat to reach a riverside village, then walk among rice fields hemmed by jagged karst, meeting locals and learning traditional cultivation methods and the cultural importance of rice. Enjoy an authentic South Sulawesi lunch, then continue overland to Sengkang to settle in.

Stay: BBC Hotel Sengkang (or similar).

Included meals:Breakfast, Lunch.Transport: Private vehicle Makassar → Maros (~1h30m, ~45 km); Maros → Sengkang (~5h, ~160 km).

Included activity:Maros Adventure (boat transfer; rice-paddy walk beneath tanggul cliffs).

Day 5 | Sengkang → Lake Tempe Boat Tour → Tana Toraja

Begin with a boat tour on Lake Tempe, one of Indonesia’s largest freshwater lakes. Cruise past floating Bugis homes, meet residents and learn about traditional fishing and water-based living. Continue into the mountains of Tana Toraja, pausing at Puncak Lakawan for panoramic valley views and a leisurely lunch stop. On arrival, settle into Rantepao area lodging.

Important cultural note: If a Traditional Torajan Funeral is taking place during your visit, your CEO may recommend adjusting today/tomorrow’s order so you can respectfully observe this community-led ceremony (never staged; attendance only when welcomed; certain elements—e.g., animal sacrifice—are not attended). Your CEO will brief on etiquette and attire.

Stay: Luta Hotel (or similar), Tana Toraja Regency.

Included meals:Breakfast.Transport: Private vehicle Sengkang → Tana Toraja (~6h30m, ~210 km).

Included activities:Lake Tempe Boat Tour; Puncak Lakawan viewpoint stop.

Day 6 | Tana Toraja — Lemo, Suaya “Baby Tree”, Londa Caves & Ke’te Kesu’

Travel through terraced landscapes and villages to Lemo, renowned for tau-tau effigies and hanging graves carved high into limestone—an emblem of Toraja ancestor traditions. Continue to Suaya to learn the story of the “Baby Tree” (Tarra’ Tree) and visit royal graves. At Londa, explore cave burial sites where coffins rest in natural chambers and cliff niches. Break for a Local Torajan Lunch (Foodie Moment), then close with a guided walk in Ke’te Kesu’, one of the best-preserved traditional villages, to admire tongkonan houses, alang rice barns, and intricate woodcarvings.

Stay: Luta Hotel (or similar), Tana Toraja Regency.

Included meals:Breakfast, Lunch.Included activities:Lemo Village & Burial Site; Suaya Baby Tree & Royal Graves; Londa Cave Burial Site; Ke’te Kesu’ Traditional Village; Local Torajan Lunch.

Day 7 | Tana Toraja — Your Discover Day

Choose how deep to go: trek village-to-village or learn Torajan recipes in a family kitchen. Your CEO can help match options to your pace.
Stay: Luta Hotel (or similar), Tana Toraja Regency.
Included meals: Breakfast.
Free time: Full-day to explore Tana Toraja.
Optional extras (own expense):

  • Toraja Village Trek (Kandora → Palipu → Suaya → Tampangallo): full-day guided walk through rice terraces, forests and small villages; picnic lunch included; route adjusted to group fitness.
  • Toraja Cooking Class: hands-on prep in a traditional house (e.g., pa’piong manuk cooked in bamboo), served with cooked young fern and red rice.
Day 8 | Tana Toraja → Palopo → Fly to Makassar → City Highlights

Early depart by road to Palopo airport; fly to Makassar. After free time for lunch, explore with your CEO: Fort Rotterdam (17th-century stronghold and museum), Paotere Harbor to see working pinisi ships, the striking Masjid 99 Kubah, then a relaxed Losari Beach sunset.

Stay: Aston Makassar Hotel (or similar), Makassar.

Included meals:Breakfast.Transport: Private vehicle Tana Toraja → Palopo (~2h30m, ~77 km); flight Palopo → Makassar (~1h30m).

Included activities: Fort Rotterdam visit; Paotere Harbor walk; Masjid 99 Kubah visit; Losari Beach sunset.

Day 9 | Makassar — Depart at Any Time

Trip ends after breakfast.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Departure note: If flying internationally, first book a domestic flight to Jakarta or Bali; allow ~4 hours to transit to the international airport for onward travel.

Key Tour Info

Route Map
Food & Accommodation

Where You’ll Sleep

  • Hotels (8 nights)Standard service level: clean, comfortable, character stays. Expect city hotels at the coast and simple guesthouses in the highlands.
  • Typical bases along the route:Ubud (arrival): walkable to cafés and markets.Rantepao / Tana Toraja (highlands hub): cooler nights, tongkonan-lined valleys nearby.Sengkang / Lake Tempe: simple riverside-town lodging for the boat day.Makassar (coastal finale): modern conveniences; Fort Rotterdam within reach.
  • Rooms & facilities: private rooms, ensuite where available, Wi-Fi common in towns; air-con/fans on the coast, cooler air in the uplands (pack a light layer).
  • Group size: small group (max 16, avg 12).
  • Transport to/from stays: private vehicle, plane, walking, boat (as per itinerary).
  • Solo travellers: My Own Room option available (single room for all night stops, subject to exceptions only if stated on your departure).

What You’ll Eat

  • Included meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches. Hotel breakfasts most days; selected local Torajan lunches during cultural visits.
  • Style: classic Indonesian staples (nasi goreng, grilled fish, vegetables, sambal) with Torajan specialities on select days; fresh fruit and coffee are highland highlights.
  • Foodie & cultural moments (as scheduled):Local Torajan lunch near heritage sites (e.g., Londa area).Lake Tempe boat day with time to sample local fare.Maros village visit (snacks/refreshments as available).
  • Your choice most evenings: ample time to explore night markets and warungs in Ubud, Rantepao, Makassar.
  • Dietaries: vegetarian and other common preferences generally accommodated with advance notice; carry favourite snacks for travel days.
  • Hydration & hygiene: safe water refills available in towns; bring a reusable bottle and basic hand sanitiser for village days.
What's Included & What's Not

✅ What’s Included

  • Small-group trip (Classic | Standard): Max 16 (avg 12). CEO throughout; local guides where they add depth.
  • Duration & route: 9 daysUbud → Makassar (Bali gateway to Sulawesi highlands and coast).
  • Internal airfare (as per itinerary).
  • Transport: Private vehicle, plane, boat, and walking; transfers to/from included activities.
  • Meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches (including Local Torajan lunches on key heritage days).
  • Included experiences & site visits:Tana Toraja culture: Ke’te Kesu’ traditional village; Lemo village & cliff-burial site; Suaya baby tree & royal graves; Londa cave burial site.Highland viewpoints: Puncak Lakawan visit.Lake Tempe boat tour and village time.Maros village adventure.Makassar: Fort Rotterdam visit; Masjid 99 Kubah exterior visit.
  • Special moments: Welcome Moment (meet your CEO & group); Discover Moments in Ubud, Makassar, and Tana Toraja (free time structured for your choices).

🚫 What’s Not Included

  • International flights to Ubud / from Makassar.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory) — medical, evacuation & repatriation coverage required.
  • Visas, vaccinations, entry/exit fees (as applicable to your nationality).
  • Meals not listed above; drinks and personal snacks.
  • Optional activities not specified as included (e.g., Ubud cooking/spiritual tours, Toraja cooking class, village treks).
  • Tipping for CEO, drivers, local/Indigenous guides, and service staff (customary; guidelines provided on tour).
  • Airport transfers pre/post tour (available on request; otherwise DIY by taxi/rideshare).
  • “My Own Room” supplement (single room option) and any nights where it may not apply if specified by the operator.
  • Checked baggage fees/overweight charges on airlines if applicable.
  • Personal items & incidentals: laundry, phone/SIM/Wi-Fi upgrades, souvenirs, gear (e.g., adapter, headlamp, reusable bottle).
Weather Expectations

Weather Expectations

Big picture: Equatorial tropics with microclimates. Expect warm–hot days, high humidity at sea level, and cooler evenings in the Toraja highlands. Rain is possible year-round; heaviest showers typically Nov–Mar. Pack light layers and a rain shell.

By Region (what it feels like)

  • Ubud, Bali (200–300 m, humid tropics)Apr–Oct (drier): 28–31 °C days, 23–25 °C nights; brief showers.Nov–Mar (wetter): 29–32 °C, sticky; frequent afternoon downpours. High UV.
  • Tana Toraja / Rantepao (700–1,200 m, highland tropics)Year-round: milder than the coast. Days 23–27 °C, evenings 18–21 °C.Nov–Apr: more rain; misty mornings, slippery village paths.May–Oct: fresher, sunnier; still expect passing showers.
  • Lake Tempe / Sengkang (lowland, river/lakeside)Humid and warm: 28–33 °C; glare on the water, occasional squalls.Mosquitoes at dusk—cover up and repellent on.
  • Makassar (coastal city, sea breeze)Jun–Sep (drier): 30–32 °C, moderate humidity, sea breeze helps.Nov–Mar (wetter): 30–33 °C, heavier showers/storm bursts.

Quick Month-by-Month (impact on the trip)

  • Nov–Mar: Wettest; lush landscapes, heavier afternoon showers; carry a compact umbrella/dry bag.
  • Apr–May & Oct: Shoulder; warm, humid, intermittent rain—good balance for scenery and comfort.
  • Jun–Sep: Generally drier, clearer highland views; warm days, cooler Toraja nights.

Sun, Rain & Trail Notes

  • UV is high even on cloudy days—hat, SPF 50, sunglasses.
  • Rain = slick stone/earth: closed shoes with grip are best for Lemo/Londa steps and rice-terrace lanes.
  • Evenings in Toraja: a light jumper is handy; rooms can feel cool after rain.
  • On water (Lake Tempe): glare + pop-up showers—pack a dry sack and a light layer.
⭐ Reviews
What To Pack

What to Pack

Bags & Carry Set-up

  • Soft-sided main bag (50–60L); wheels OK, but keep it flexible for vans/boats.
  • Daypack (20–25L) with hip belt + rain cover for daily outings.
  • Neck wallet / small cross-body for passport/cards; luggage locks.

Clothing — Tropics to Highlands

  • Light, breathable layers: 4–5 quick-dry tops, 1–2 long sleeves (sun/bugs).
  • Mid-layer: light fleece or thin insulated jacket (cool Toraja evenings).
  • Shell: lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket or poncho.
  • Bottoms: 2 travel trousers, 1 pair lightweight shorts (longer cut recommended).
  • Temple/ceremony etiquette: knee/shoulder-covering outfit or sarong/scarf.
  • Underwear & socks: quick-dry; add 1–2 pairs hiking socks.
  • Sleepwear for warm rooms; a light layer for cooler nights.

Footwear

  • Closed shoes with tread (village paths, Lemo/Londa steps, wet stone).
  • Comfortable walking shoes for town days.
  • Sandals/flip-flops for showers/boats.

Sun, Rain & Trail Basics

  • Sun hat/cap, UV sunglasses, SPF 50 + lip balm.
  • Compact umbrella (great in downpours and as a sun shade).
  • Dry sacks/zip bags for rain, Lake Tempe spray, and electronics.
  • Buff/face wrap for dust; microfibre cloth for lenses.

Health & Personal Kit (bring what you use)

  • Personal meds + copies of scripts; basic first aid (band-aids, blister care, antiseptic).
  • Rehydration salts, anti-diarrhoeal, antihistamine, pain reliever.
  • Insect repellent (picaridin or 30%+ DEET) + bite soother.
  • Hand sanitiser & wipes; small soap/shampoo bars.
  • Water system: reusable bottle (1–2 L); optional filter/tabs for village days.

Docs & Money

  • Passport (6+ months validity) + 2–3 photocopies stored separately.
  • Travel insurance certificate & emergency contacts (printed + digital).
  • Visas/vax proofs as required.
  • Cards + some IDR cash (small notes handy for markets/donations).

Electronics

  • Phone + power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).
  • Universal adapter (Type C/F common; hotels may vary; 220 V).
  • Headlamp/torch (caves, night walks, power flickers).
  • Camera/GoPro + spare batteries & memory (humid heat drains both).

Nice-to-Haves

  • Neck pillow for the drive days.
  • Collapsible day tote (markets).
  • Lightweight sarong (temples, sun, improvised towel).
  • Small gifts from home (stickers/pins) for hosted visits—only if appropriate.

Respectful Dress Notes

  • For ceremonies/funerals and village visits: covered shoulders/knees, muted colours preferable, remove hats when asked. Always ask before photographing people.

Leave Behind (or keep minimal)

  • Heavy hard-shell suitcases, multiple jeans, high heels, hair dryers (often provided), excess valuables.
Local Insights

Local Insights

Big-picture vibe: Highlands hospitality meets coastal ease. You’ll move from Bali’s café lanes to Sulawesi’s Tana Toraja valleys—where sky-tipped tongkonan homes, markets, and ancestral sites shape daily life. Curiosity + courtesy go far.

Respect & etiquette

  • Ceremonies/funerals: Attend only if invited; dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered), speak softly, follow your CEO’s lead.
  • Photos: Always ask first, especially near people, graves, and effigies (tau-tau).
  • Greetings: A light handshake or nod; use your right hand to give/receive items.
  • Shoes off: Common when entering homes or certain spaces—watch your host.

Useful phrases (Bahasa Indonesia)

  • Hello = Halo / Good morning = Selamat pagi
  • Please = Tolong / Thank you = Terima kasih
  • Excuse me/Sorry = Permisi/Maaf
  • How much? = Berapa harganya?
  • Where is the bathroom? = Di mana kamar kecil?
  • I’m allergic to… = Saya alergi pada…

Money & paying

  • Carry small IDR notes for markets/donations; larger bills for restaurants.
  • Cards in cities; cash in villages. ATMs in Makassar and Rantepao (availability can vary—withdraw ahead).

Tipping norms

  • Restaurants: service may be included; if not, 5–10% is appreciated.
  • Local guides/drivers: bring small notes for modest tips where service is provided.
  • CEO: discretionary at trip’s end for great service.

Safety quick-takes

  • Use registered taxis/rideshare in cities; keep phones tucked at crossings.
  • Market days are busy—wear your daypack in front.
  • On boats (Lake Tempe): secure loose items; expect spray.

Dress & comfort

  • Modest clothing suits villages and sacred sites; a sarong/scarf is handy.
  • Highlands evenings can be cool—light layer recommended.
  • Footing at Lemo/Londa can be slick—closed shoes with tread.

Bargaining & markets

  • Bargain politely in markets; start with a smile and keep it friendly.
  • Buying direct from artisans supports local livelihoods.

Connectivity & power

  • City hubs: good LTE. Villages: patchy; download maps/music offline.
  • Universal adapter recommended; occasional brief power flickers in smaller towns.

Photography & drones

  • Drones/restricted flying are sensitive near heritage sites—assume no-fly unless your CEO says otherwise.
  • Avoid close-ups of ceremonies or mourners without explicit permission.

Food & drink

  • Try Torajan coffee and local specialties; sambal heat varies—ask “Pedas?” (spicy?).
  • Stick to bottled/filtered water; carry a reusable bottle for refills.

Sustainable choices

  • Pack out small rubbish; skip single-use where possible.
  • Choose locally owned eateries/shops; say thanks in Bahasa—it matters.

Micro-gems (time permitting)

  • Rantepao markets: textiles, woodcarving, produce bustle.
  • Valley viewpoints: short ridge strolls for sunrise/sunset hues.
  • Makassar: evening promenade snacks near Fort Rotterdam.
CO₂ Footprint Report
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CO₂ Footprint

Results Summary (Topline)

  • Estimated per guest (9 days): ~2.6 tCO₂e
  • Estimated per tour (assumed 16 guests): ~41.5 tCO₂e
  • Counter-impact applied: 200% (targeting ~5.2 tCO₂e per guest)
  • Method note: DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and Radiative Forcing (RF) = 1.9 for aviation; +10% uncertainty uplift applied. Conservative throughout.

Purpose
Provide a clear, conservative estimate of the greenhouse-gas footprint for this 9-day Sulawesi itinerary and the scope of the 200% counter-impact.

Tour Header

  • Tour: Soul of Sulawesi | Tana Toraja Culture Journey | 9 days
  • Countries: Indonesia (Sulawesi)
  • Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level

Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)

  • Guest travel to/from tour: Single official feeder hub → start city; end → hub (open-jaw if needed; here likely round-trip to the same gateway).
  • On-tour transport: Overland private/shared vehicles; guided village/site walks.
  • Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses (HCMI-style proxies).
  • Meals: All meals across 9 days (included and at-own-expense) via a conservative per-meal factor.
  • Activities: Small allowance for site visits/local outings.
  • Excluded: Long-haul beyond the feeder hub, shopping, extraordinary add-ons not typical for this route.

Feeder Hub — Single Origin City
Perth (PER) selected for reporting (direct and one-stop options into Sulawesi via Bali/Denpasar or Jakarta).

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

  • Aviation (economy, short/medium-haul): base ~0.158 kgCO₂e/pax-km, then × RF 1.9 + WTT → effective ~0.30 kgCO₂e/pax-km used.
  • Ground (minibus/van mix): ~0.09 kgCO₂e/pax-km (includes gradients & WTT).
  • Accommodation proxies: ~12 kgCO₂e/night.
  • Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e per meal.
  • Activities allowance: ~25 kgCO₂e per guest, once.

Activity Data (applied)

  • Aviation (hub + internal):PER ↔ UPG (Makassar) via DPS or CGK (one-stop typical): ~7,000 km round-trip (conservative).
  • Ground (combined): ~800 km (Makassar ↔ Rantepao return, regional touring).
  • Nights: 8 (hotels/guesthouses).
  • Meals: ~27 (9×3).
  • Activities allowance: modest cultural/site-visit buffer included.

Results — Per Guest (rounded)

  • Aviation (~7,000 km; RF+WTT): ~2.10 tCO₂e
  • Ground (~800 km): ~0.07 tCO₂e
  • Accommodation (8 nights): ~0.10 tCO₂e
  • Meals (~27): ~0.07 tCO₂e
  • Activities allowance: ~0.03 tCO₂e
  • Subtotal: ~2.36 tCO₂e
  • +10% uncertainty uplift: ~2.60 tCO₂e
  • Rounded for communication: ~2.6 tCO₂e per guest

Results — Per Tour (assumed 16 guests)

  • Estimated total: ~41.5 tCO₂e

Assumptions (key)

  • Feeder hub fixed to Perth (PER); different hubs (e.g., SYD/MEL/ADL) materially change aviation.
  • Ground factor set conservatively for minibuses and mountain roads.
  • Meals counted in full (included + own-expense) to avoid underestimation.
  • One activities buffer included even if some guests skip certain outings.
  • +10% uplift covers variability (weather, road conditions, idling, load factors).

Versioning

  • Method: Zero Trace Standard v1.9 (DEFRA-aligned; WTT included; RF 1.9 for aviation).
  • Date: 17 October 2025.
  • Preparer: Zero Trace (marketplace methodology; not the tour operator).
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Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be?

Easy–Moderate. Expect village walks, steps at heritage sites (Lemo/Londa), warm/humid lowlands and cooler highlands. Closed shoes with tread recommended.

What’s the group size and who leads the trip?

Small group—max 16 (avg 12). A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads the trip; specialist local guides join where they add depth.

What standard of accommodation is used?

Standard hotels/guesthouses (private rooms, ensuite where available). Coast stays often have A/C or fans; highlands are cooler—pack a light layer.

Is “My Own Room” available?

Yes—“My Own Room” can be booked for a private room throughout, subject to availability and any exceptions noted on the specific departure.

More FAQ's

How much is included food-wise?

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches are included. Other meals are at own expense—great chance to try Torajan and Indonesian favourites. Dietary needs are usually accommodated with advance notice.

How are ceremonies and sensitive sites handled?

Attendance is by invitation only; modest dress and permission are essential. Photography near people, graves or tau-tau effigies is only with consent. The CEO sets respectful boundaries.

What should I wear for temples, villages and ceremonies?

Cover shoulders and knees; carry a sarong/scarf. Neutral colours are best. Shoes off when asked.

What’s the weather like and what should I pack?

Year-round warm/humid at sea level; cooler in Tana Toraja. Short, sharp showers possible any month (wetter Nov–Mar). Pack light layers, a rain shell, sun protection and insect repellent.

Are there mosquitoes or health considerations?

Yes, especially around Lake Tempe and lowlands. Use repellent (picaridin or 30%+ DEET), wear long sleeves at dusk, and bring any personal medications. Drink bottled/filtered water.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travel light with a soft-sided main bag and a daypack. Space in vehicles is shared; soft bags handle village/boat transfers better.

What transport is used?

Private vehicle for most overland travel, plus boat on Lake Tempe and a domestic flight per the itinerary. Walks are on village paths and uneven stone at heritage sites.

Are ATMs and cards widely accepted?

ATMs are available in Makassar and Rantepao (availability can vary). Carry IDR cash—small notes for markets/donations, larger for restaurants. Cards are more reliable in cities than villages.

Is tipping expected?

Customary. Plan modest tips for local guides/drivers when service is provided, ~5–10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, and a discretionary amount for the CEO at trip’s end.

What language is spoken?

Bahasa Indonesia is the national language; local Torajan languages are common in villages. A few phrases in Bahasa go a long way.

What about connectivity and power?

Good LTE in cities; patchy in villages. Bring a universal adapter (220 V; Type C/F common) and a power bank.

Can travellers under 18 join?

Minimum age 15 years for this trip.

Are airport transfers included?

Not by default. Arrival/departure transfers can be arranged in advance or done independently by taxi/rideshare. Joining/finishing hotel details appear on the travel voucher/app.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes—mandatory. Must include medical, evacuation and repatriation. Bring printed and digital proof.

What if the itinerary changes?

Flexibility is built in. Local conditions, weather or community needs can prompt adjustments; the CEO will manage alternatives that keep the experience respectful and rewarding.

CO₂ Emissions
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  • If you book this way, the operator’s terms & conditions apply immediately (including payment schedules and change/cancellation rules).

Good to know

  • Each trip may have slightly different deadlines and deposit rules—You can find the terms and conditions for your chosen booking on the listing page.
  • You can still flag special requests after deposit—earlier is better for availability.
What’s your cancellation & refund policy?

Before your booking is confirmed

  • If we can’t confirm your spots after you’ve paid a deposit, we’ll issue a full refund of that deposit.

After your booking is confirmed

  • Cancellations follow the operator’s cancellation schedule (varies by trip and how close you are to departure).
  • Expect possible fees or non-refundable items (e.g., internal flights, permits, certain accommodations).
  • If a refund or credit is due, we’ll process it once the operator releases the funds and pass it back to your original payment method.

Instant-confirmation bookings (live operator calendars)

  • The operator’s T&Cs apply immediately on these. Some departures are non-refundable or have stricter windows.

How to cancel

  • Email us your booking reference, names on the booking, and a one-line request (“Please cancel”).
  • We’ll reply with the exact penalties/refund or credit per your operator before proceeding.

If the operator cancels or significantly changes your trip

  • You’ll be offered an alternative date, a travel credit, or a refund according to that operator’s policy. We’ll advocate for the best outcome for you.

Good to know

  • Refunds are returned to the original payment method; bank/FX fees aren’t usually recoverable.
  • Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
  • The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.
Can I change dates or transfer my booking?

Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

Date changes

  • We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
  • If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
  • The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.

Transfer to another person (name change)

  • Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
  • Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).

Instant-confirmation bookings

  • If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.

How to request a change

  • Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
  • We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.

Pro tips

  • Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
  • Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
  • Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.
Are you accredited / is my money protected?

Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.

Our business safeguards

  • Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
  • Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
  • VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.

Operator-level protection

  • We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
  • When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

How your payment is handled

  • All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
  • If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.

Your legal rights

  • Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.

Extra peace of mind

  • Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
  • We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).
Do you offer price matching?

Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.

Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.

Do I need travel insurance?

Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it

Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).

When it’s required

  • Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.

What good cover includes

  • Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
  • Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
  • Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
  • Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
  • 24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.

When to buy

  • At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.

How to share proof

  • Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
  • If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.

Are departures guaranteed?

Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.

How it works

  • Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
  • When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
  • Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking

If a trip is under-subscribed

  • We’ll contact you with clear options:

Move to another date (same tour)

Switch to a comparable trip

Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)

  • Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.

If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)

  • First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
  • If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.

Our promise

  • Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
  • No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
  • Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

RESTORE

RESTORE

REPEAT

REPEAT

- RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW -