London to Bulukumba: How to Reach South Sulawesi's Coastal Heritage
London to Bulukumba may not be a standard tourist route—but for those craving culture, coastlines, and craftsmanship, it's a path worth exploring. From the bustling historic streets of London to the tranquil shores of South Sulawesi, this trip offers a rare chance to step into Indonesia’s living maritime legacy.
Keep reading to find the best travel routes, cultural highlights, and practical tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Read Also: 11 Best Things to Do in Bulukumba: Attractions, Beaches, and Cultural Gems
How to Get from London to Bulukumba
Bulukumba lies on the southern edge of Sulawesi, Indonesia. While it doesn't have its own airport, it’s easily accessible via Makassar—the provincial capital of South Sulawesi. Here’s your step-by-step guide.
1. Fly from London to Makassar
There are no direct flights from London to Bulukumba. The nearest airport is Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) in Makassar.
a. Recommended Flight Routes:
- London → Jakarta (CGK) → Makassar
- London → Singapore (SIN) → Makassar
- London → Bali (DPS) → Makassar
Popular airlines: Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air
Total travel time: Around 17–24 hours including layovers
Tips: For smoother transit, opt for a round-trip or multi-city ticket through major travel platforms or trusted agents.
2. Makassar to Bulukumba (By Land)
Once in Makassar, your journey continues overland.
a. Private Car or Taxi
- Duration: 3.5–4 hours
- Most comfortable option with scenic ocean views
- Easily arranged via hotel concierge or travel services
b. Bus or Minivan (Budget Option)
- Departure: Daya Terminal or Mallengkeri Terminal
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Affordable and immersive—perfect for travelers wanting to engage with locals
3. Getting Around in Bulukumba
Explore Bulukumba like a local:
- Ojek (motorbike taxis): Fast and flexible
- Motorbike rental: For independent exploration
- Car with driver: Great for full-day coastal trips
Discover the Coastal Culture of Bulukumba
Once you arrive, you’ll step into a world deeply connected to the sea. Bulukumba is the heartland of Indonesia’s boat-building legacy—the birthplace of the Phinisi, majestic wooden sailing ships crafted by hand for centuries. Here are some must-visit spots to truly connect with the soul of South Sulawesi:
1. Phinisi Shipyards at Tana Beru
Tana Beru is where the sea meets legacy. Local artisans here have been building Phinisi ships for generations—entirely by hand, without blueprints. Watch as skilled craftsmen work barefoot on towering wooden frames using techniques passed down through family lines.
The shipyards aren’t just about boats—they’re a living symbol of community pride and resilience. Walking through Tana Beru is like stepping into a time capsule of Indonesian maritime excellence.
Read Also: How to Travel from Singapore to Bulukumba: A Complete Guide
2. Tanjung Bira Beach
This iconic beach is a feast for the eyes. With white sands, clear turquoise waters, and calm breezes, Tanjung Bira is a perfect place to unwind after your journey.
Swim, snorkel, or simply take in the view—with Phinisi ships often spotted in the distance. Sunset here is magical, and coconut sellers line the shore, adding to the local charm.
3. Traditional Villages of Kajang and Lemo-Lemo
For a deeper look at the local way of life, visit the indigenous Ammatoa Kajang community, known for their all-black traditional clothing and sustainable lifestyle. Or explore Lemo-lemo, where daily life revolves around the sea and ancestral stories.
Talk to elders, sample traditional seafood dishes, and experience life in harmony with nature. These villages offer insight into how culture and ecology are deeply intertwined.
Travel Tips for UK Voyagers Visiting Bulukumba
Planning from the UK? Here are a few things to know:
1. Visa Requirements: UK passport holders can enter Indonesia visa-free for 30 days. For longer stays, apply in advance.
2. Currency: The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Exchange some in Makassar or bring an international card.
3. Best Time to Visit:
- May to September: Dry season, ideal for beaches and cultural tours
- October to April: Rainy season, fewer tourists but lush greenery
4. Local Etiquette:
- Dress modestly in villages
- Use Bahasa Indonesia greetings like "Apa kabar?" (How are you?)
Read Also: Who Are Indonesia’s Sea Nomads? Discover the Bajau People’s Ocean Life
Traveling from London to Bulukumba isn’t just a long-haul flight—it’s a journey that shifts your perspective. From the fast pace of the city to a coastal village where ships are still handcrafted, you’ll cross more than just time zones.
Whether it’s the beaches, the boats, or the deep-rooted culture that draws you in, Bulukumba will stay with you long after you leave.
Enjoy the journey with Riara Marine—let South Sulawesi become your next unforgettable story.
Make It Count: Join the Riara Marine Experience
Want a deeper connection with this maritime culture? Don’t just observe—participate. Visit Riara Marine, where local shipbuilders continue the Phinisi tradition and invite you into their world.
Join a Workshop Tour to:
- Watch Phinisi ships being crafted
- Try rope-making or wood carving
- Hear real-life sea stories from the builders themselves
You’ll not only leave with memories—you’ll help preserve a timeless craft for generations to come.
Contact Riara Marine today to join the Workshop Tour.
