Kendari Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Kendari, Indonesia. Get insider tips on local culture, food, and transportation options for your trip.


Introduction to Kendari

Welcome to Kendari, a city in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its beautiful scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. As the capital of Southeast Sulawesi, Kendari is a bustling city with a population of more than 300,000 people. The city is a hub of business, education, and trade in the region.

Kendari is located on the eastern coast of Sulawesi, surrounded by hills and mountains. The city offers a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles, with a mix of diverse cultures and cuisines. Kendari is an excellent destination for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure and want to explore unique attractions in Indonesia.

List of Places to Visit in Kendari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kendari is rich in history and culture, with various museums and historical landmarks worth visiting. The following are some must-see places:

  • Kendari City Museum: It houses a collection of historical artifacts, such as ancient pottery, weapons, and traditional clothing and accessories.

  • La Galigo Museum: The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the native Konjo people. It showcases the La Galigo manuscript, a UNESCO-recognized literary work from Sulawesi.

  • Fort Rotterdam: It is a Dutch colonial fortress built in the 17th century, which has been converted into a museum. The fortress displays several artifacts depicting the region’s historical events during Dutch colonial rule.

Natural Attractions of Kendari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kendari is surrounded by beautiful natural attractions, including mountains, beaches, and bays. The following are some of the best places to visit for outdoor adventures:

  • Wakatobi Marine National Park: The park is located south of Kendari and comprises four main islands. It is famous for its coral reefs, marine life, and world-class scuba diving spots.

  • Bokori Island: It is a small island about 40 km from Kendari, accessible by a short boat ride. The island offers picturesque views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. It is ideal for snorkeling or just soaking up the sun.

  • Moramo Waterfall: Located 60 km from Kendari, Moramo Waterfall is a spectacular sight with multiple cascades and turquoise pools. Visitors can hike through the lush jungle to reach the waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kendari

Kendari has beautiful hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region and experience the locals’ traditional way of life.

  • Kampung Baru to Mangrove: The route begins from the coastal village Kampung Baru and follows a path through a mangrove forest, which is home to various bird species.

  • Kendari-Konawe: It is a 60 km cycling route that takes visitors through lush forests and rice paddies. The route ends at the Konawe district, where visitors can explore traditional villages and architecture.

Best Things to Do in Kendari: Activities and Tours

Kendari offers a range of tours and activities catering to diverse interests. The following are some of the most popular things to do:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The Wakatobi Marine National Park is a world-renowned destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can witness the diverse marine life and coral reefs.

  • City Sightseeing Tour: Visitors can explore the historical landmarks and cultural attractions of Kendari by taking a city sightseeing tour.

  • Food Tour: Kendari is famous for its cuisine, and visitors can take a food tour to sample the local delicacies and street food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kendari

Visitors can design a week-long itinerary to experience the best of Kendari. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Kendari, take a city sightseeing tour
Day 2 Explore La Galigo Museum and Fort Rotterdam
Day 3 Take a day trip to Wakatobi Marine National Park for snorkeling or scuba diving
Day 4 Hike to Moramo Waterfall
Day 5 Visit Bokori Island for a day of relaxation
Day 6 Take a cycling route to Konawe district
Day 7 Enjoy local cuisine, souvenir shopping and depart from Kendari

Food and Drink Scene of Kendari

Indonesia’s cuisine is famous for its diversity and unique flavors. Kendari, in particular, has a rich food culture with a blend of traditional and modern cuisine, influenced by various ethnic groups.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pallu Basa: It is a traditional Konjo soup made with beef, tomatoes, turmeric, and other spices.

  • Kaledo: It is a popular street food in Kendari, made with chicken or beef offal and cooked in a spicy soup.

  • Nasi Lemak: It is a classic Indonesian dish consisting of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and served with various toppings like peanuts, fried egg, and crispy anchovies.

Local Beverages

  • Kopi Hijau: It is a unique green coffee brewed from unroasted coffee beans and served with palm sugar.

  • Kratingdaeng: It is a popular energy drink in Indonesia, similar to Red Bull.

  • Es Cendol: It is a refreshing dessert drink made with coconut milk, rice flour, and palm sugar.

Where to Stay in Kendari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kendari offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.

  • Horison Kendari: It is a 4-star hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

  • Hotel Santika Kendari: It is a 3-star hotel known for its excellent service and amenities. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a restaurant.

  • Sutan Raja Hotel & Convention Centre: It is a 2-star hotel located near the airport, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant. The hotel is ideal for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Kendari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Kendari can find unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some suggestions:

  • Tenun fabric: It is a hand-woven fabric made by the Konjo people, known for its intricate designs and bright colors.

  • Ikat Scarf: It is a hand-woven scarf made using the Ikat technique, a traditional method of dyeing and weaving.

  • Pomelo: Kendari is famous for its sweet and juicy pomelo, a type of citrus fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Kendari

Kendari has a unique blend of cultural diversity, influenced by various ethnic groups, such as Konjo, Buton, and Bugis. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors should always show respect for their culture and customs.

  • Clothing: Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.

  • Greetings: The locals greet each other by clasping both hands and bowing slightly. Visitors can also use this form of greeting to show respect.

Best Time to Visit Kendari

The best time to visit Kendari is from June to October, during the dry season. The temperatures are moderate, and the weather is pleasant, making it easier to engage in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kendari

Do:

  • Show respect for the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Try the local cuisine and sample the street food.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kendari

Kendari is a safe destination with low crime rates. Visitors should exercise caution and take the necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Kendari

Visitors to Kendari should ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations and take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Kendari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kendari

  • Halua Tambo Airport (KDI): It is the main airport in Kendari, offering flights to and from major cities in Indonesia.

Bus Stations Near Kendari

  • Kendari Bus Station: It is the central bus station in Kendari, offering intercity and inter-provincial routes to various destinations in Sulawesi and Java.

Other Options

Visitors can also take ferries from nearby islands to Kendari, as the city has a port.

How to Get Around in Kendari

Public transportation options in Kendari include bemos (minivans) and taxis. Visitors can also rent motorbikes or cars to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Kendari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Kendari, visitors can take excursions to nearby destinations, such as:

  • Wakatobi Islands: It is a cluster of islands south of Kendari, offering world-class diving spots and picturesque scenery.

  • Bau-Bau: It is a coastal city known for its historic landmarks and natural attractions.

  • Tana Toraja: It is a highland region in South Sulawesi, famous for its unique culture and traditional architecture.

Conclusion

Kendari is a hidden gem in Southeast Sulawesi, waiting to be explored. With its cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique cuisine, visitors can experience the best of Indonesia in one destination. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Kendari and provided you with the necessary information to make the most of your visit. Safe travels!