Pre-Trip Checklist: Tana Toraja

Useful Preparations

Your travel preparation journey begins well before departure. Careful planning sets the stage for a delightful trip.

Comprehensive Planning

A well-structured plan for a seamless travel experience.

Initial Steps

Passport & Visa

Passport valid for 6 months beyond stay. Research visa needs.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Makassar (UPG).

Insurance & Health

Arrange travel insurance, consult doctor for vaccinations.

Intermediate Actions

Local Transport

Reserve long-distance bus tickets or private transfer to Tana Toraja.

Accommodation

Book your accommodation in Tana Toraja in advance.

Financial & Digital

Notify bank of travel, download offline maps and language packs.

Final Touches

Document Safekeeping

Pack essential documents, including passport and medications.

Home Security

Inform trusted contacts, arrange mail, and secure your home.

Booking Confirmation

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and transport bookings.

Advance Reservations

Making bookings ahead of time guarantees availability and a smoother journey.

Bookings

Flights (international and domestic to Makassar).
Long-distance bus tickets or private transfers.
Main accommodation in Tana Toraja.
Consider pre-booking a local guide.

Home Preparation

Before Leaving

Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Organize pet care if you have animals.
Ensure your home is secure.

Research Recommendations

Gain insight into Torajan culture and practices for a travel experience.

Cultural Background

Read about Torajan history.
Understand local customs.
Explore traditional beliefs.
Learn about "Aluk Todolo."

Local Etiquette

Review local social norms.
Photography guidelines.
Dress code at sacred sites.
Donation expectations.

Destination Specifics

Explore attractions.
Consider transportation options.
Cash versus card usage.
Peak travel times.

Important Travel Information

Checking passport validity and visa requirements are among the first and most steps for international travel. Ensure these are handled well in advance.

Arrival & Departure

The arrival and departure processes are streamlined with careful consideration.

Arrival Checklist

1
First Steps in Makassar
Clear immigration, customs, purchase local SIM, withdraw currency.
2
Transfer to Rantepao
Utilize pre-booked bus or private car for the journey.
3
Orientation in Rantepao
Acquire a local map, familiarize yourself with surroundings, seek local tips.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping
Plan souvenir shopping before departure. Shipping options from Makassar.
VAT Refund
Inquire about VAT refund procedures at international airports like Makassar (UPG).
Return Trip Readiness
Confirm onward travel, repack luggage, perform final room checks.

Getting Started

Makassar Airport UPG

Clear immigration and customs. Acquire a local SIM card (Telkomsel).

Withdraw Indonesian Rupiah from an ATM or use money changers.

Transfer to Rantepao

Locate your pre-booked bus or private transport.

The journey from Makassar takes 8-10 hours.

Rantepao Local Travel

Ojeks (motorcycle taxis) are available from the bus terminal.

Walking is also an option for nearby accommodation.

Arrival and Orientation

Upon arrival, getting a local SIM card and some local currency are top priorities for immediate needs.

Departure Considerations

Final steps before your departure from Tana Toraja and Indonesia.

Souvenirs & Reminders

Plan souvenir shopping a day or two before departure.
Inquire about shipping options (limited from Rantepao).
Check customs regulations for artifacts in your home country.
Consider travel organization products for packing. Explore Eagle Creek

Travel Insurance Notes

Ensure your travel insurance is current for your return.
Keep all receipts for potential insurance claims.
Review coverage for any medical incidents during your trip.
Consider a provider like World Nomads for comprehensive coverage.

Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for the journey back to Makassar airport.

Timing

Bus journey:8-10 hours
Factor in potential delays:Important
Airport arrival (domestic):2 hours before flight
Airport arrival (international):3 hours before flight

Return Journey Logistics

Confirm onward flights or other transportation.
Repack your luggage carefully for the journey.
Ensure important documents and valuables are accessible.
Double-check your room for forgotten items.

Final Notes for Departure

Allow generous buffer time for your return journey to Makassar airport.

Unexpected delays on the road are common, so plan accordingly to avoid missing your flight.

Pre-Trip Checklist