Toraja

The rugged highlands of Sulawesi are home to the Toraja people, an indigenous population whose name derives from a derogatory Bugis word that means "bumpkin"! While the Toraja today are mostly Christian, they have held on to some of their customs and beliefs, particularly their elaborate funerary rites. In addition, the surrounding landscape is an excellent destination for outdoor sports and activities, among them watersports and trekking.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Ancient Religious Rites

While many Torajans are now Christian, converted by missionaries under the Dutch colonial administration, many still practice the rites of their religion, Aluk Todolo, an amalgam of animism and ancestor worship. Learn about the intricate funerary rites of the Torajans, particularly the use of multiple burials, cave chambers, and wooden likenesses called tau-tau.

Buffalo Sacrifice

Attend a buffalo sacrifice at a funeral rite. Enjoy a meal with the local natives as you learn about their norms, mores and culture. Such feasts can last for days, if not weeks.

Coffee Plantation

Visit a Torajaland coffee plantation, where you can learn about the local means of production and cultivation. Take a sip of a special blend and if you wish, purchase coffee to bring back home with you.

Rantepao

Rantepao is the largest town in Tana Toraja, and is home to a fascinating market. Upwards of 600 buffalo, an animal integral to the Toraja way of life (and death) are on sale at any given time at Rantepao, with some fetching such astronomical prices as 22,000 USD. You will also see hundreds of pigs and many other animals for sale here, including roosters who are assessed for their prowess in cockfighting.

Tongkonan House

Visit the village of Palawa, which offers an excellent example of tongkonan, traditional Toraja homes. These unique edifices are perched on columns with vast roofs that curve upwards in imitation of the sweep of a buffalo’s horns. A family’s wealth may be measured in columns of buffalo horns displayed outside the home. Meet local villagers and, through your guide and interpreter, chat with them about their lives.

Indonesia Regions

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Toraja Itineraries

All Itineraries
Multi Country
Ultra Luxe
Ancestral Adventures in South Sulawesi

Ancestral Adventures in South Sulawesi

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $3,500
See Itinerary
Indonesia's Cultural and Natural Highlights by Private Jet

Indonesia's Cultural and Natural Highlights by Private Jet

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $40,000
See Itinerary
Jetting Through Historic Indonesia: Borobudur to Bali

Jetting Through Historic Indonesia: Borobudur to Bali

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,500
See Itinerary
Toraja Heritage Hotel

Toraja Heritage Hotel

Toraja, Indonesia


At Toraja Heritage Hotel, guests are in for a real treat: located 2,300 feet above sea level, looking out over one of Indonesia’s largest mountain ranges, this hotel prides itself on following the architectural style of traditional Torajan clan houses, complete with traditional furnishings and handicrafts, and a roof shaped like a ship’s prow. But the hotel - the first four-star international hotel in Toraja - also provides world-class amenities and comforts seen around the world, with two outdoor swimming pools, a bamboo bar featuring fresh juice and a “drink of the day”, and even as a flying ropes course for the adventurous type! Venturing off-site, guests can enjoy visits to nearby sites including rice fields and a traditional plait center; staying on the grounds, they can indulge in a spa treatment and order some room service to their luxurious suite. 


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