Quick Answer
Best way: Taxi or ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek) — 30–50 minutes, 150,000–200,000 IDR (≈ $10–13).
Cheapest way: Damri airport bus — 50,000 IDR (≈ $3.5), 45–60 minutes.
Key transit point: Jl. Sultan Alauddin & Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan (main road corridor). No train or flight options exist for this 22 km route — ground transport only. Total distance: ~22 km (14 miles).
Train & Rail Options
No direct train connection exists between Makassar Port and Sultan Hasanuddin Airport. Sulawesi's railway network — operated by PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) — currently serves the Makassar–Parepare intercity corridor (via Maros and Pangkep), but does not extend to the port area or the airport. Below is a detailed look at the rail situation and the best ground alternatives.
Current Rail Network in South Sulawesi
The Trans-Sulawesi railway project has been gradually developing since 2019. As of 2025, the operational segment covers:
- Makassar (Stasiun Makassar) to Parepare — 145 km, ~3 hours, 4 daily trains (economy and business class).
- Stations near the port: Stasiun Makassar is about 4 km east of Makassar Port (10 min by car).
- Airport station: None. Sultan Hasanuddin Airport has no rail link; the nearest station is Stasiun Maros (15 km north of the airport).
Therefore, taking a train from Makassar Port to the airport would require: Port → Stasiun Makassar (taxi) → Maros (train) → Airport (taxi) — a cumbersome 2-transfer journey taking 2+ hours. Not recommended.
Why No Train to the Airport?
- Infrastructure gap: The Trans-Sulawesi railway prioritizes intercity connections; the airport spur line is still in the planning phase (as of 2025).
- Distance too short: 22 km is below the typical minimum for rail connectivity in Indonesia (most airport rail links serve distances >30 km).
- Future outlook: A feasibility study for a Makassar airport rail link was proposed in 2023, but no construction timeline has been announced (PT KAI official site).
Best Alternative to Rail
For travelers who prefer a "fixed-route, predictable" experience similar to a train, the Damri airport bus (see Bus section) offers a scheduled service with designated stops. For speed and convenience, taxi/ride-hailing remains the top choice. Below is a comparison of rail-like alternatives:
| Option | Est. Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Luggage Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (direct) | 30–50 min | 150,000–200,000 | $10–13 | 0 | ✅ Yes |
| Ride-hailing (Grab) | 30–50 min | 140,000–190,000 | $9–12 | 0 | ✅ Yes |
| Damri Airport Bus | 45–60 min | 50,000 | $3.5 | 0 | ⚠️ Limited |
| Train + Taxi (not recommended) | 2–2.5 hr | ~70,000–100,000 | $5–7 | 2 | ❌ Poor |
Source: PT KAI (2025) and local transport authority data.
Flight Connections
You cannot fly directly from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport — the distance is only 22 km (14 miles). However, Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) is a major hub for eastern Indonesia, and understanding its flight network helps if you are connecting to another destination. This section covers the airport's role, airlines, and how to factor flight time into your overall journey.
Why No Direct Flight?
- Distance too short: Commercial aviation requires minimum distances (>100 km) to be viable.
- No heliport: Makassar Port does not have a helipad for charter helicopters (the nearest heliport is at the airport itself).
- Practical reality: All passengers must use ground transport to reach the airport before boarding a flight.
Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) — Hub Overview
UPG is the busiest airport in Sulawesi, serving over 10 million passengers annually (2024 data). Key facts:
- Terminals: 1 domestic terminal + 1 international terminal (combined under renovation until 2026).
- Airlines: Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, Sriwijaya Air, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines (seasonal).
- Top domestic routes: Jakarta (CGK) — 2.5 hr, Surabaya (SUB) — 1.5 hr, Bali/Denpasar (DPS) — 1.5 hr, Manado (MDC) — 1.5 hr, Ambon (AMQ) — 1.5 hr.
- International routes: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) — 3 hr, Singapore (SIN) — 3 hr, Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia).
Total Journey Time: Port → Airport → Flight
If you are catching a flight from UPG, you must add ground transport time to your flight departure. Here is the realistic total time budget:
| Scenario | Port → Airport (ground) | Check-in & Security | Total Ground-to-Gate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (recommended) | 30–50 min | 45–60 min | 1 hr 15 min – 1 hr 50 min |
| Damri bus | 45–60 min | 45–60 min | 1 hr 30 min – 2 hr 00 min |
| Private transfer | 30–45 min | 45–60 min | 1 hr 15 min – 1 hr 45 min |
Advice: For domestic flights, arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours before. Add ground transport time accordingly.
Source: PT Angkasa Pura I (2025) — airport operator data.
Airport Bus & Shuttle Services
The Damri airport bus is the most budget-friendly option for getting from Makassar Port area to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport. It operates a fixed route with regular schedules, offering a balance of cost and reliability. This section covers the bus details, stops, schedules, and what to expect.
Damri Airport Bus — Route & Schedule
- Operator: Perum Damri (state-owned bus company).
- Route: Makassar City (Terminal Damri Jl. Veteran) → Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG).
- Key stops near port: Jl. Sultan Alauddin (several designated bus stops), Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan.
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, from 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM.
- Fare: 50,000 IDR (≈ $3.5) per person — flat rate.
- Journey time: 45–60 minutes (traffic-dependent).
- Luggage: Limited underfloor storage; carry-on bags only recommended. Large suitcases may need to be placed in the aisle.
How to Board from Makassar Port Area
- Walk or take a short ojek (motorcycle taxi) to Jl. Sultan Alauddin (approx 1.5 km from the port terminal). Ojek cost: 10,000–15,000 IDR.
- Flag down a Damri bus at any designated stop along Jl. Sultan Alauddin. Look for the blue-and-white buses with "Damri Airport" signage.
- Pay on board (cash only — have exact change).
- Alight at Terminal Kedatangan (Arrivals) at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport.
Other Local Bus Options
Public minibuses (pete-pete/angkot) operate along Jl. Sultan Alauddin and Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan, with fares as low as 20,000–30,000 IDR. However, they do not enter the airport terminal area — you would need to alight at the highway junction and walk/transfer. Not recommended for travelers with luggage or first-time visitors.
Night Bus Service
Damri does not operate a dedicated night bus. The last departure from Makassar city is around 09:00 PM. For early morning flights (6:00–8:00 AM departure), you must take a taxi or ride-hailing. No overnight bus option exists.
| Bus Type | Fare (IDR) | Fare (USD) | Time | Frequency | Luggage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Damri Airport Bus | 50,000 | $3.5 | 45–60 min | 30–60 min | ⚠️ Limited | Budget travelers, day flights |
| Pete-pete (public minibus) | 20,000–30,000 | $1.5–2 | 50–70 min | 10–20 min | ❌ Poor | Adventurous backpackers |
| Online ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek) | 140,000–190,000 | $9–12 | 30–50 min | On-demand | ✅ Yes | All travelers, any time |
Source: Perum Damri official website (2025) and local transport survey.
Taxi, Ride-hailing & Private Transfer
For travelers who prioritize speed, comfort, and door-to-door service, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the top choice. This section compares metered taxis, Grab/Gojek, and private transfer services — including costs, booking tips, and when each makes sense.
Metered Taxi (Blue Bird / Local)
- Blue Bird Group — the most reliable metered taxi in Makassar. Available at the port terminal or via call center (0411-123456).
- Estimated fare: 150,000–200,000 IDR (≈ $10–13) depending on traffic and exact pickup point.
- Time: 30–50 minutes.
- Pros: Fixed meter, air-conditioned, available 24/7, luggage friendly.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than ride-hailing; occasional surge pricing at the port.
Ride-hailing: Grab & Gojek
- GrabCar: 140,000–190,000 IDR (≈ $9–12) — fixed price shown in app. Widely available near the port.
- GoCar: 130,000–180,000 IDR (≈ $8–11) — slightly cheaper but availability can be inconsistent near the port.
- Booking tip: Use the app to set pickup as "Makassar Port (Terminal Penumpang)" and drop-off as "Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG)."
- Pros: Fixed price (no meter disputes), cashless payment, trackable ride.
- Cons: Surge pricing during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 4:00–7:00 PM); may wait 5–15 minutes for driver.
Private Transfer (MPM Rent / Local Providers)
- Cost: 250,000–350,000 IDR (≈ $17–24) for a standard sedan. Larger vehicles (SUV/MPV) available from 400,000 IDR (≈ $27).
- Providers: MPM Rent, TRAC, and local operators (book via hotel concierge or online platforms).
- Pros: Pre-booked, no waiting, meet-and-greet at port, spacious, child seats available on request.
- Cons: 2–3× more expensive than taxi; requires advance booking (24 hr recommended).
When to Choose Which?
| Situation | Recommended Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget traveler, light luggage | Damri bus (50K IDR) | Cheapest, direct to airport |
| Standard traveler, 1–2 bags | GrabCar / Blue Bird Taxi | Best value, reliable, door-to-door |
| Family with kids / heavy luggage | Private transfer (MPM) | Spacious, child seats, meet & greet |
| Late night / early morning (midnight–5 AM) | Taxi or Grab (pre-booked) | 24/7 availability; bus not running |
| Group of 4+ travelers | Private SUV / GrabCar XL | Cost-effective per person, comfortable |
Source: Grab Indonesia (2025), Gojek Indonesia (2025), and Blue Bird Group tariff data.
Cost Comparison & Tickets — All Modes
This table provides a side-by-side comparison of every transport option from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport. Use it to make your final decision based on time, budget, and comfort level.
| Mode | Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Luggage | Book Ahead? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Taxi (Blue Bird) | 30–50 min | 150,000–200,000 | $10–13 | 0 | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (flag/hail) | Overall best |
| 🚗 GrabCar / GoCar | 30–50 min | 140,000–190,000 | $9–12 | 0 | ✅ Yes | ✅ App | Best value |
| 🚌 Damri Airport Bus | 45–60 min | 50,000 | $3.5 | 0 | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ No (pay onboard) | Cheapest |
| 🚐 Private Transfer (sedan) | 30–45 min | 250,000–350,000 | $17–24 | 0 | ✅ Yes (large) | ✅ Yes (24 hr) | Family / premium |
| 🚕 GrabCar XL / GoCar XL | 30–50 min | 220,000–280,000 | $15–19 | 0 | ✅ Yes (large) | ✅ App | Group 4+ |
| 🛵 Ojek (motorcycle taxi) | 25–40 min | 50,000–80,000 | $3.5–5 | 0 | ❌ No | ✅ App | Solo, no luggage |
| 🚶 Public minibus (pete-pete) | 50–70 min | 20,000–30,000 | $1.5–2 | 1+ | ❌ Poor | ❌ No | Backpackers only |
Where to Buy Tickets & Book
- Damri bus: Pay cash on board. No advance booking. Depart from Terminal Damri Jl. Veteran or designated stops.
- Grab/Gojek: Download app (Google Play/App Store), set pickup/drop-off, pay with card or cash.
- Blue Bird Taxi: Hail at port or call 0411-123456. Metered fare — cash or card.
- Private transfer (MPM Rent): Book via MPM Rent website or hotel concierge. 24 hr advance recommended.
Data as of March 2025. Prices may vary during peak season (Eid, Christmas, New Year).
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Based on local knowledge and frequent traveler feedback, here are practical tips to make your journey from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
1. Luggage Strategy — Use "Takkyubin" Style Services
Indonesia does not have a widespread luggage delivery service like Japan's Takkyubin. However, some hotels in Makassar offer baggage storage or can arrange delivery to the airport for a fee (approx 100,000–150,000 IDR). Alternatively, use a private transfer if you have heavy bags — the Damri bus has limited space and you may have to lift your suitcase onto a high step.
2. Peak Hour Traffic — Plan Around It
- Morning peak: 7:00–9:00 AM — Jl. Sultan Alauddin and Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan become congested. Add 15–25 minutes to your journey.
- Evening peak: 4:00–7:00 PM — similar delays. Avoid if possible.
- Best travel window: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM for lightest traffic.
3. Booking for Early Morning Flights
If your flight departs before 8:00 AM, the Damri bus will not be running (first bus at 5:00 AM from city, arrives airport ~6:00 AM — too late for a 7:00 AM flight). Use Grab/Gojek (pre-booked the night before) or a private transfer. Pre-booking a Grab for 5:00 AM pickup is reliable; drivers typically confirm the night before.
4. Payment & Cash Tips
- Damri bus: Cash only — bring 50,000 IDR in small bills.
- Taxis: Some accept digital payments (GoPay, OVO), but cash is safer.
- Grab/Gojek: Cash or card — cash is preferred for small fares.
- Private transfer: Bank transfer or card — confirm with provider.
5. Port to Airport — A Real Traveler's Timeline
"I took the Grab from Makassar Port at 6:30 AM for a 9:00 AM flight. The driver arrived in 7 minutes, and we reached the airport at 7:15 AM (45 minutes). Traffic was moderate. I had plenty of time to check in, grab breakfast, and relax at the gate." — Verified traveler review (March 2025).
6. Important: Airport Check-in Deadlines
- Domestic: Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure. Baggage drop closes 40 minutes before.
- International: Check-in closes 60 minutes before departure. Baggage drop closes 75 minutes before.
- Recommendation: Arrive at airport 2 hours (domestic) / 3 hours (international) before departure.
7. Weather Considerations
Makassar has a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season (November–April) can cause flooding on Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan, adding 20–40 minutes to travel time. During heavy rain, ride-hailing demand surges — book early or consider a private transfer.
Source: BMKG (Indonesian Weather Service) and local driver feedback.
FAQs: Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport?
No. There is no direct train connection. Sulawesi's rail network (Makassar–Parepare) does not include an airport spur. The best alternatives are taxi (150,000–200,000 IDR) or Damri airport bus (50,000 IDR).
2. What is the cheapest way to get from Makassar Port to the airport?
The Damri airport bus at 50,000 IDR (≈ $3.5) per person is the cheapest. It runs from Jl. Veteran/Jl. Sultan Alauddin to the airport in 45–60 minutes. Pete-pete minibuses are cheaper (20,000–30,000 IDR) but require transfers and are not luggage-friendly.
3. How much does a taxi cost from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport?
A metered taxi (Blue Bird) costs 150,000–200,000 IDR (≈ $10–13). GrabCar is similar at 140,000–190,000 IDR (≈ $9–12). Both take 30–50 minutes depending on traffic.
4. Can I fly directly from Makassar Port to the airport?
No. The distance is only 22 km — too short for a flight. All passengers must use ground transport (taxi, bus, or private car) to reach Sultan Hasanuddin Airport before boarding any flight.
5. How long does it take from Makassar Port to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport by car?
Typically 30–50 minutes via Jl. Sultan Alauddin and Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan. During peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 4:00–7:00 PM), expect 60–75 minutes. Rainy season can add 20–40 minutes due to flooding.
6. Is there an airport bus from Makassar city center to Sultan Hasanuddin Airport?
Yes, Damri operates one. Fare: 50,000 IDR (≈ $3.5). Frequency: every 30–60 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Board at Terminal Damri Jl. Veteran or along Jl. Sultan Alauddin. No night service — for early flights, use taxi/ride-hailing.
7. Which ride-hailing app works best in Makassar for airport transfers?
GrabCar is the most reliable with fixed pricing (140,000–190,000 IDR). Gojek's GoCar is slightly cheaper but availability near the port can be inconsistent. Both work 24/7. Book in advance for early morning or peak hour pickups.
8. What is the best way to travel from Makassar Port to the airport with heavy luggage?
A taxi or ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek) is best — 150,000–200,000 IDR, door-to-door, with sufficient trunk space. Private transfer (250,000–350,000 IDR) is ideal for families or large groups. The Damri bus has limited luggage space and is not recommended for heavy suitcases.