Quick Answer
For most travelers, the fastest and most convenient way to get from Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) to Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) is by taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab/Gojek), taking 15-20 minutes and costing approximately IDR 80,000 - 150,000. For the best value, take the official Damri airport shuttle bus to a central city point (IDR 40,000) and then a short ride-hailing trip to the campus.
1. Taxi & Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Gojek)
The door-to-door choice for convenience, speed, and comfort, especially with luggage or in small groups.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | 15-20 min (light traffic), 30-45+ min (rush hour) |
| Cost Range | IDR 80,000 - IDR 150,000 |
| Where to Find | Official Taxi: Counters in Arrivals Hall. Grab/Gojek: Designated Pick-up Zone in parking area. |
| Best For | First-time visitors, families, those with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals. |
In-Depth Analysis: Official Taxi vs. Ride-Hailing
Official Airport Taxis (Blue Bird, Express, etc.): You purchase a fixed-price coupon at the clearly marked counters after baggage claim. This eliminates price haggling and is regulated by the airport authority (PT Angkasa Pura I). Simply hand the coupon to the driver at the taxi rank. It's the most straightforward process but is often 10-30% more expensive than ride-hailing.
Ride-Hailing (Grab & Gojek): Often cheaper and you see the exact fare upfront. Critical: The pick-up point is not at the main curb. You must walk to the designated "Online Taxi" area in the public parking lot (follow signs). Ensure you have an Indonesian SIM card with data to use the app. Pro Tip: For better comfort with bags, select "GrabCar" or "GoCar" over the motorcycle options ("GoRide").
2. Airport Shuttle Bus (Damri)
The most economical balance of cost and relative convenience, operated by the state-owned bus company, Damri.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | ~45 min to city + 15-20 min ride-hailing = 60-90 min total |
| Cost | Bus: IDR 40,000 (fixed) + Ride-hailing: ~IDR 20,000 = ~IDR 60,000 total |
| Where to Find | Bus stop directly outside the terminal arrivals area (look for Damri signs/booth). |
| Best For | Budget-conscious travelers, solo travelers with one backpack, daytime arrivals. |
Route & Step-by-Step Guide
The Damri bus from UPG goes to several major points in Makassar city, such as Mall Panakkukang or Terminal Daya. Neither is at UNHAS. Here's the process:
- Buy a Ticket: Purchase at the Damri counter or directly on the bus. Have cash (IDR 40,000) ready.
- Take the Bus: Board and enjoy the air-conditioned ride into the city.
- Alight at Your Stop: Confirm with the driver that you're going to UNHAS; they can advise the best stop.
- Final Leg: From your stop, use the Grab or Gojek app to book a car or motorcycle to the specific UNHAS gate. This short trip is cheap and efficient.
Limitation: Bus frequency can be every 30-60 minutes. Check the latest schedule. It does not run 24/7 (typically from ~6 AM to 10 PM).
3. Public Bus (The Local & Cheapest Way)
For the adventurous traveler seeking the absolute lowest cost and a local experience.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | 90 - 120 minutes (with walking, waiting, and transfers) |
| Cost | Under IDR 10,000 (per bus segment) |
| Where to Find | Walk to the public bus stop on the main road (Jl. Poros Bandara) outside the airport complex (~10 min walk). |
| Best For | Ultra-budget travelers, backpackers with minimal luggage, cultural immersion. |
Detailed Route & Challenges
Step 1: Exit the terminal and walk to the main highway. Look for buses with a "P" (Perintis) designation or marked for "Terminal Daya" or "Panakkukang".
Step 2: Pay in cash (small bills) upon boarding. Inform the conductor you need to transfer to a bus going towards "UNHAS" or "Tamalanrea".
Step 3: You will likely need to change buses at a major terminal like Terminal Daya.
Step 4: The final bus will drop you on the main road near UNHAS, requiring a final walk to your faculty.
Note: This option requires basic Indonesian language skills, patience, and comfort with non-air-conditioned buses. Not recommended for first-time visitors with luggage. For reference, the city's public transport routes are managed by the Makassar Transportation Agency (Dishub Makassar).
4. Private Airport Transfer / Car Rental
A premium, stress-free option for groups, business travelers, or those with specific needs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | 15-45 minutes (driver knows the best route) |
| Cost Range | IDR 300,000 - IDR 800,000+ |
| How to Book | Online in advance via travel platforms (Klook, Traveloka) or global rental agencies (Avis, Hertz). |
| Best For | Large groups (4+), corporate travel, families with young children/elderly, special occasions. |
Advantages & Booking Tips
A pre-booked private transfer means a driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a name sign. It's the ultimate in convenience after a long flight. You can also book a car with a driver for multiple days if needed.
Car Rental: If you plan to explore South Sulawesi, renting a car (with or without a driver) directly from the airport is efficient. International licenses are required, and driving in Makassar traffic is challenging for newcomers. Companies like Avis Indonesia have counters at UPG.
5. Essential Traveler Tips & Local Advice
Go beyond the basics with these practical insights for a smooth transfer.
Money & Connectivity
Currency: Have Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in small denominations (IDR 50,000 and below) for buses, taxis (if not using coupon), and small purchases. ATMs and currency exchanges are available in the arrivals hall.
SIM Card: Purchase a prepaid SIM with data (Telkomsel, Indosat) at the airport kiosks. This is crucial for using ride-hailing apps and maps.
Navigation & Timing
Traffic Warning: Makassar has significant traffic congestion, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM & 4-7 PM). Double your expected travel time during these periods.
Campus Specifics: "Hasanuddin University" is a large campus in Tamalanrea. Know your specific faculty or gate. Inform your taxi driver of the exact location (e.g., "Fakultas Teknik UNHAS" or "Gerbang Utama/ Main Gate").
Luggage & Comfort
Packing Light: If using buses, pack light. Overhead storage is limited.
Stay Hydrated: Makassar is hot and humid. Carry a water bottle. You can buy water after exiting baggage claim.
FAQs: Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to University Transport
Is there a direct bus from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Hasanuddin University?
No, there is no single direct public bus from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) to the UNHAS campus. The most direct option is the Damri airport shuttle bus to Makassar City (Mall Panakkukang or Terminal Daya), followed by a local taxi or ride-hailing service (Gojek/Grab) to the university, which takes about 60-90 minutes total.
What is the cheapest way to get from UPG airport to UNHAS?
The absolute cheapest way is by public bus ("P" route or similar). Expect to pay less than IDR 10,000. However, it involves walking from the airport to the public bus stop on the main road, a bus change in the city, and final walk to campus. For better value and convenience, the Damri airport shuttle bus (IDR 40,000) combined with a short ride-hailing trip is recommended.
How much is a taxi from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Hasanuddin University?
An official airport taxi or a ride-hailing car (Grab/GoCar) from UPG to the main UNHAS campus in Tamalanrea costs between IDR 80,000 and IDR 150,000. The final price depends on traffic, exact drop-off point, and vehicle type. Official taxis use a fixed-price coupon system at the counter; ride-hailing apps show the exact fare upfront.
How long does it take to get from the airport to the university?
Travel time varies significantly by mode:
- Taxi/Ride-hailing: 15-20 minutes in light traffic, 30-45+ minutes during rush hour.
- Airport Shuttle + Ride-hailing: 60-90 minutes total.
- Public Bus: 90-120 minutes, including walking and waiting time.
What is the best way if I arrive late at night or early in the morning?
For arrivals between 10 PM and 6 AM, your only reliable options are:
- Airport Taxi: The official counter operates 24/7.
- Ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek): Available 24/7, but wait times may be longer late at night.
- Pre-booked Private Transfer: Most secure option for odd hours.
Is it easy to find a taxi at UPG airport?
Yes, it is very easy. Immediately after exiting the baggage claim area, you will see official taxi service counters (like Blue Bird or Express). You pay a fixed fare at the counter based on your destination zone and receive a coupon to give to the driver. This system is safe and avoids negotiation.
Can I use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek at the airport?
Yes. Grab and Gojek operate at UPG. The designated pick-up point is in the parking area, a 2-3 minute walk from the arrivals hall. Follow the signs for "Online Taxi" or "Ride-Hailing Pick-up." It's often cheaper than official taxis. Ensure you have a local SIM card with data to book.
Which option is best with lots of luggage or traveling in a group?
For groups of 3-4 or travelers with multiple large suitcases:
- Taxi: Choose a larger car (like an SUV/MPV) at the official counter.
- Ride-hailing: Book a GrabCar 6 or similar larger vehicle category in the app.
- Private Van Transfer: Pre-book online for the best comfort and cost-efficiency for groups of 5+.