Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best way to get from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) to Makassar Railway Station is by taking the official Damri Airport Bus. It's affordable, reliable, and drops you close to the station. The journey takes 45-60 minutes and costs only IDR 40,000 (approx. $2.50 USD). For maximum convenience, especially with heavy luggage or a group, a taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab/Gojek) is faster (30-45 mins) but costs significantly more (IDR 100,000 - 250,000).
1. Damri Airport Bus: The Best Overall Option
The Damri Airport Bus is the officially sanctioned and most traveler-friendly public transport linking UPG Airport to the city center, with a stop very close to Makassar Railway Station. It offers an excellent balance of cost, comfort, and reliability.
Key Advantages:
- Direct Route: Non-stop from the airport to the city (Mall Ratu Indah/Makassar City Terminal), a short walk or cheap taxi ride from the railway station.
- Extremely Affordable: Flat fare of IDR 40,000 per person (as of 2024).
- Luggage Friendly: Dedicated under-bus luggage compartments.
- Air-Conditioned & Comfortable: Modern coaches with fixed schedules.
- Easy to Find: Counters and bus stops are clearly marked in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Arrival halls.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- After collecting your luggage, exit into the Arrival Hall.
- Look for the bright Damri counter or signs pointing to “Damri Bus” or “City Bus”.
- Purchase your ticket at the counter (cash only, IDR).
- Wait in the designated area. Buses depart approximately every 30-60 minutes.
- The bus will take the Tol Insinyur Sutami toll road directly to the city.
- Alight at “Mall Ratu Indah” or the final stop “Terminal Damri Makassar”. From here, Makassar Railway Station is a 5-minute taxi ride (IDR 20,000-30,000) or a 15-20 minute walk.
Schedule (Subject to Change): First bus from airport ~5:00 AM, last bus ~8:00 PM. Frequency is higher during peak daytime hours.
Source: Official Damri website and airport information desks.
2. Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek): Fast & Door-to-Door
For direct, door-to-door service, taxis and app-based ride-hailing are the most convenient options, though at a higher cost. This is ideal for families, those with lots of luggage, or travelers arriving at odd hours.
Official Airport Taxis
- How it works: Use the official taxi counters inside the Arrival hall (e.g., Blue Bird Group, Express Taxi). You pay a fixed fare based on your destination zone and receive a voucher to give to the driver.
- Cost: IDR 150,000 - IDR 250,000 to Makassar Railway Station.
- Pros: Guaranteed, safe, metered or fixed fare, 24/7 availability.
- Cons: More expensive than other options.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Gojek)
- How it works: Use the Grab or Gojek app on your smartphone. Set your pickup to the designated “Ride-Hailing Pickup Point” at the airport (follow signs).
- Cost: Typically IDR 100,000 - IDR 180,000. Can surge during rain or peak hours.
- Pros: Often cheaper than airport taxis, cashless payment option, you see the price upfront.
- Cons: Requires a local SIM card/data, driver may cancel if stuck in airport traffic.
Travel Time: Both options take 30 to 45 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic on Jalan Tol Insinyur Sutami and city roads.
3. Private Transfer & Car Rental: For Ultimate Convenience
Pre-booked private transfers offer a seamless, stress-free arrival. A driver will meet you in the Arrival hall with a name sign and assist with luggage.
- Best For: Large groups (3-4+ people), corporate travel, families with young children/elderly, or travelers wanting absolute certainty.
- Cost: IDR 300,000 - IDR 600,000+ for a standard car, booked online in advance via platforms like Kiwitaxi, Booking.com, or local tour operators.
- Car Rental (Self-Drive): Companies like Avis or Hertz have desks at the airport. Only recommended if you are familiar with driving in Indonesia. Factor in toll costs (approx. IDR 20,000) and parking.
- Verdict: The most expensive option, but the price can be competitive per person for a group of 4 compared to multiple taxis.
4. Public Metro Mini Bus (Pete-pete): The Ultra-Budget Choice
This is the local public minibus system. It’s an authentic experience but not recommended for first-time visitors or anyone with more than a small backpack.
- How it works: Walk out of the airport complex to the main road (Jalan Poros Bandara). Flag down a passing “pete-pete” minibus with a “Pamanggangan - Bandara” or “Makassar - Bandara” sign.
- Cost: IDR 5,000 - IDR 10,000.
- Major Drawbacks:
- No dedicated luggage space.
- Very crowded and makes many stops.
- Drops you at a central terminal (e.g., Terminal Mallengkeri), requiring another local bus or taxi to the railway station.
- No fixed schedule; you wait until it fills up.
- Only consider this if: You are a budget backpacker, travel very light, speak basic Bahasa Indonesia, and are not in a hurry.
5. Tickets & Cost Comparison Table
Below is a quick comparison of all transport options from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) to Makassar Railway Station to help you decide.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (IDR) | Best For | Booking | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Damri Airport Bus | 45 - 60 mins | 40,000 (per person) | Solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious | Buy at airport counter | High |
| Taxi (Metered/Airport) | 30 - 45 mins | 150,000 - 250,000 | Families, groups of 2-3, lots of luggage | Airport counter / Hail | Very High |
| Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek) | 30 - 45 mins | 100,000 - 180,000 | Tech-savvy travelers, good value | App required | High |
| Private Transfer | 30 - 45 mins | 300,000 - 600,000+ | Groups, luxury/convenience seekers | Pre-book online | Very High |
| Public Minibus (Pete-pete) | 60 - 90+ mins | 5,000 - 10,000 | Adventurous backpackers on a shoestring | Flag on road | Low |
Bottom Line: The Damri Bus offers the best value. For speed and ease, use a taxi or Grab.
6. Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Cash is King: Have Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for the Damri bus, public buses, and small taxis. Larger taxis/transfers may accept card.
- Traffic Awareness: Makassar traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). Factor this into your train connection plans.
- SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card with data at the airport (Telkomsel, Indosat) to use ride-hailing apps and maps. This is a game-changer.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have heavy bags and are taking the Damri bus, be prepared to lift them in/out of the compartment. For a truly hands-free arrival, a taxi is worth the cost.
- Verify Your Drop-off: Tell your taxi/Grab driver “Stasiun Kereta Api Makassar” and show them the address. The station is also known as “Stasiun Kota Makassar”.
- Late-Night Arrivals: If you land after 8 PM, your only consistent options are the 24/7 airport taxi counter or a pre-booked transfer. Have your hotel’s contact info handy.
Navigating Makassar Station Area
The area around Makassar Railway Station is bustling. There are plenty of warungs (local eateries) and mini-markets if you need snacks or water for your train journey. Allow extra time if you need to purchase train tickets at the station counter.
FAQs: Getting from UPG Airport to Makassar Station
What is the fastest way to get from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Makassar Railway Station?
The fastest way is by taxi or ride-hailing (like Grab/Gojek), taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, followed by the Damri Airport Bus which takes 45-60 minutes. There is no direct train.
What is the cheapest way to travel from UPG Airport to Makassar Station?
The cheapest option is the public Metro Mini Bus (pete-pete), costing around IDR 5,000-10,000, but it's not recommended for travelers with luggage. The Damri Airport Bus (IDR 40,000) offers the best balance of cost and comfort.
Is there a direct train from Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Makassar Station?
No, there is no direct train or railway line connecting Sultan Hasanuddin Airport (UPG) to Makassar Railway Station. You must use road transport (bus, taxi, or private car).
How much is a taxi from UPG to Makassar Railway Station?
A metered taxi costs between IDR 150,000 to IDR 250,000. Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek are often cheaper, ranging from IDR 100,000 to IDR 180,000. Always confirm the price or use the meter.
Where do I catch the Damri bus at the airport?
The Damri Airport Bus stop is located just outside the Arrival Hall of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (Domestic & International). Look for the bright orange/yellow buses or the Damri counter.
What if my flight arrives late at night?
Damri buses operate from approximately 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. For flights arriving after 8 PM, your only reliable options are taxis (airport taxi counter is 24/7) or pre-booked private transfers. Ride-hailing apps are also available but may have surge pricing.
Is it easy to find a taxi at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport?
Yes, it is very easy. Official airport taxi counters (like Blue Bird, Express) are located in the Arrival halls. You pay a fixed fare or get a voucher based on your destination zone. Avoid unsolicited offers from drivers inside the terminal.
Which option is best with a lot of luggage?
A taxi or private transfer is best for heavy or multiple luggage. The Damri bus has luggage compartments but space can be limited during peak hours. Public minibuses (pete-pete) are not suitable for large luggage.