Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best overall way to get from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) to Makassar Mall is by using a ride-hailing app (Grab or Gojek). It offers a direct, door-to-door journey in 30-45 minutes for around IDR 80,000 to IDR 150,000 (â $5-$10 USD), balancing cost, comfort, and convenience. The cheapest option is the public bus (IDR 15k-40k), while the most convenient (but costly) is an official airport taxi or pre-booked private transfer.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab & Gojek (The Recommended Choice)
For the majority of modern travelers, ride-hailing services provide the optimal balance for the UPG to Makassar Mall route. They are significantly cheaper than official taxis, offer fixed fares via the app, and provide the ease of door-to-door service.
How It Works at UPG Airport:
- Pick-up Zone: Designated areas are located in the airport parking lot. Follow signs for "Online Taxi" or "Ride-Hailing Pick-up".
- Booking: Ensure you have an active Indonesian SIM card or stable airport Wi-Fi to book. Simply enter "Makassar Mall" as your destination.
- Vehicle Options: GrabCar, GoCar (standard car), GrabBike/GoRide (motorcycle - for solo travelers with light luggage), and sometimes larger cars (GrabCar Plus).
| Service Type | Estimated Fare to Makassar Mall | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| GrabCar / GoCar (Standard) | IDR 80,000 - 150,000 | Most individuals, couples, or small families. |
| GrabBike / GoRide (Motorcycle) | IDR 40,000 - 70,000 | Solo travelers with a backpack only. |
| GrabCar Plus / 6-Seater | IDR 180,000 - 250,000 | Groups of 4-6 or travelers with extra luggage. |
Note: Prices surge during peak hours, rain, or late night. Always confirm the final price in the app before confirming the ride.
Official Airport Taxis: Door-to-Door Convenience
Official taxis provide a hassle-free, immediate solution directly from the arrivals hall. They are regulated, use meters (or fixed price vouchers), and drivers are familiar with the city.
Key Providers & Process:
- Providers: Look for reputable companies like Blue Bird Group (light blue) or the local "Taksi" brand operating at UPG. Blue Bird's official site provides fare estimates.
- The Safe Process: DO NOT accept offers from touts inside the terminal. Instead, proceed to the official taxi counter in the arrivals hall. You will pay a fixed fare voucher based on your destination zone, which you then give to the driver. This eliminates meter scams.
- Cost: The fixed voucher price to Makassar Mall typically ranges from IDR 150,000 to IDR 250,000. This is more expensive than Grab but guarantees a car without waiting.
When to Choose a Taxi:
Choose an official taxi if: your phone battery is dead, you have no local SIM/data, you arrive during a massive price surge on ride-hailing apps, or you simply want the quickest possible exit from the airport with zero negotiation.
Public Bus & Airport Shuttles: The Budget Adventure
This is the most economical way, suitable for adventurous solo travelers or those on a very tight budget who are not in a hurry.
Your Bus Options:
1. DAMRI Airport Bus to City Center:
DAMRI operates buses from UPG to major terminals in Makassar, like Daya Terminal or MTC Karebosi.
- Fare: ~IDR 40,000.
- Journey: 45-60 minutes to the terminal, not including wait time.
- The Catch: Makassar Mall is not the final stop. From Daya or MTC Karebosi, you'll need to take a short local "pete-pete" (minibus) or a ride-hailing car (IDR 15k-30k) for the final 5-10 minute leg.
2. Trans Mamminasata Bus (Public BRT):
The public BRT system is even cheaper but less direct. You must walk ~10 minutes from the terminal to the main road Jl. Poros Bandara to catch the bus heading towards "Mall Panakkukang" or "Corridor 2" routes. Requires good navigation skills. Fare: IDR 5,000 - 15,000.
Is the Bus Right for You?
Pros: Extremely cheap, authentic local experience.
Cons: Not direct, time-consuming (1.5+ hours total), challenging with heavy luggage, confusing for first-time visitors, and not ideal in hot/rainy weather.
Private Transfers & Car Rental: Stress-Free Premium Travel
For families, large groups, business travelers, or those arriving exhausted after a long flight, a pre-booked private transfer is the ultimate in comfort.
What You Get:
- A professional driver waiting in the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name.
- Assistance with luggage.
- A clean, air-conditioned vehicle (sedan, MPV, or van) exclusively for your party.
- A guaranteed, non-negotiable price paid in advance.
Cost & Booking:
Prices start from around IDR 300,000 for a standard car and can go up to IDR 800,000+ for vans. It's best to book via reputable global platforms like Klook or Booking.com, or through trusted local tour operators. While expensive, the peace of mind and time saved can be worth it.
Car Rental (with Driver or Self-Drive):
Rental counters (like Avis, local firms) are available at UPG. Renting with a driver is common and similar to a private transfer. Self-driving in Makassar's traffic is only recommended for experienced and confident drivers familiar with Indonesian road conditions.
Ticket, Cost & Travel Time Comparison
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Travel Time | Key Features / Best For | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek) | IDR 80k - 150k | 30 - 60 mins | Best value, app-based, door-to-door. Needs internet. | â â â â â (Best Overall) |
| Official Airport Taxi | IDR 150k - 250k | 30 - 50 mins | Most convenient at arrivals, fixed price voucher, reliable. | â â â â â (Most Convenient) |
| DAMRI Bus + Transfer | IDR 40k + IDR 20k | 70 - 100 mins | Cheapest, involves a change, local experience. | â â â ââ (Most Economical) |
| Pre-booked Private Transfer | IDR 300k+ | 30 - 50 mins | Stress-free, meet & greet, ideal for groups/families. | â â â â â (Best for Groups) |
Travel times are highly dependent on Makassar's notorious traffic, especially on Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan and Jl. Metro Tanjung Bunga near the mall. Always add a buffer.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
1. Mastering Makassar Traffic:
Peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) can double travel time. If your flight lands during these windows, mentally (and financially) prepare for a longer, more expensive ride. Check real-time traffic on Google Maps before choosing your transport.
2. Money Matters:
Have small Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) notes (IDR 50,000 and below) ready for taxis, buses, or small purchases. While ride-hailing apps can be linked to international cards, cash is king for almost everything else. ATMs and currency exchange are available in the arrivals hall.
3. Luggage Logistics:
If you have massive suitcases, avoid buses and motorcycle ride-hailing (GoRide). Standard GrabCar/GoCar trunks are compact. For 2+ large bags, book a "6-Seater" or larger car category, or opt for a taxi/private transfer.
4. Connectivity is Key:
Purchase a local SIM card (Telkomsel, Indosat) at the airport kiosks immediately upon arrival. Having data allows you to book ride-hailing, navigate, and translate, transforming your travel experience.
5. The Safety Basics:
UPG is generally safe. Stick to official counters for taxis, ignore overly aggressive touts, and keep your belongings secure. When using ride-hailing, always match the car license plate and driver's photo in the app before getting in.
FAQs: Getting from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Makassar Mall
What is the cheapest way to get from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Makassar Mall?
The cheapest way is by using the public bus (DAMRI or Trans Mamminasata). A one-way ticket typically costs between IDR 15,000 to IDR 40,000 (approx. $1-$3 USD). However, this requires a walk to the main road bus stop and may involve a transfer. For direct, door-to-door service at a low cost, ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek are the best value.
Is there a direct airport shuttle bus from UPG to Makassar Mall?
No, there is no dedicated direct airport shuttle that terminates at Makassar Mall. However, the DAMRI airport bus has a route to Makassar City Center (Daya Terminal or MTC Karebosi). From these terminals, you can take a short taxi or ride-hailing trip (5-10 minutes) to reach Makassar Mall.
How much is a taxi from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Makassar Mall?
An official airport taxi (Blue Bird or equivalent) will cost approximately IDR 150,000 to IDR 250,000 (approx. $10-$17 USD) for the 30-45 minute journey, depending on traffic. It's advisable to use the official taxi counter inside the arrivals hall to get a fixed price and avoid scams.
Are Grab and Gojek available at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport?
Yes, both Grab and Gojek operate at UPG Airport. They have a designated pick-up zone, usually in the parking area. Fares are generally 30-50% cheaper than official taxis, ranging from IDR 80,000 to IDR 150,000 to Makassar Mall. Booking through the app provides price transparency and route tracking.
How long does the journey from the airport to Makassar Mall take?
Travel time varies significantly by mode of transport and traffic. By taxi or ride-hailing, expect 30-45 minutes in normal traffic, which can exceed 60+ minutes during peak hours (weekdays 7-9 AM & 4-7 PM). A bus journey with a transfer can take 60-90 minutes.
What is the best option for a late-night or early-morning arrival?
For late-night arrivals (after 10 PM) or very early mornings, your best and often only reliable options are: 1) Official Airport Taxis, which operate 24/7 from the arrivals hall counter. 2) Pre-booked private transfers. Public buses and ride-hailing services may have very limited availability during these off-hours.
Is it easy to find the transportation options at UPG Airport?
Yes, Sultan Hasanuddin Airport is well-organized. Upon exiting the baggage claim area in the arrivals hall, you will clearly see official taxi service counters (fixed price), signs directing to the ride-hailing (Grab/Gojek) pick-up point, and information desks where you can ask for bus directions.
Should I pre-book a private transfer from UPG to Makassar Mall?
Pre-booking a private transfer is recommended for large groups (4+ people), families with lots of luggage, or travelers seeking maximum convenience and certainty. While more expensive (IDR 300,000+), it guarantees a driver waiting for you with a sign, assistance with bags, and a direct journey without haggling. Companies like Klook or Booking.com offer reliable options.