Kendari

The capital and largest city of Southeast Sulawesi, serving as the main gateway to the region with good transport connections and amenities. It offers colonial architecture, seafood markets, and serves as a base for exploring surrounding natural attractions.

Things to do

• Kendari Harbor Walk — Stroll along the waterfront to observe traditional fishing boats and modern port activity while enjoying views of the Banda Sea.
• Sultan Qaimuddin Great Mosque — Visit this prominent mosque in the city center, notable for its distinctive architecture blending Islamic and local design elements.
• Mandala Beach — A popular local beach about 15 km south of the city center offering swimming, seafood restaurants, and sunset views.
• Kendari Museum — Explore exhibits on Southeast Sulawesi's history, culture, and maritime heritage housed in a colonial-era building.
• Traditional Seafood Market at Palu — Browse the bustling wet market early in the morning to see fresh catches and experience local trading culture firsthand.
• Kendari City Walk through Istana Quarter — Wander the colonial neighborhood with heritage buildings, local shops, and tree-lined streets reflecting the city's historical development.

Food to try

• Cakalang or Tinutuan — Smoked pork ribs or rice porridge, popular breakfast dishes showing the region's blend of Indonesian and local Butonese influences.
• Woku Ikan — Fish cooked in aromatic spice paste with turmeric, garlic, and chilies, a signature preparation method found throughout Southeast Sulawesi.
• Lontong Kuah Kare — Rice cakes served in a rich, mildly spiced curry broth often with meat or eggs, commonly sold by street vendors in the morning.
• Grilled Reef Fish (Ikan Bakar) — Fresh-caught local fish grilled whole and served with sambal and rice at harbourside restaurants with ocean views.
• Kue Bugis — Sweet sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves, a traditional Southeast Sulawesi snack sold at markets and food stalls.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet with respect and use right hand — Indonesians value courtesy; always greet elders respectfully and use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items.
• Ask permission before photographing — Always ask locals, especially in markets and religious sites, before taking photographs to show respect for privacy and customs.
• Dress modestly in public spaces — While Kendari is relatively cosmopolitan, covering shoulders and knees shows respect, particularly when visiting mosques or attending local events.
• Bargaining is expected in markets — At traditional markets and street stalls, haggling over prices is normal practice and part of the transaction experience.