To get from Makassar Airport (Sultan Hasanuddin International, UPG) to the city, travellers have several established options: official zoned airport taxis, the Transarbagita public bus service, popular ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek, or a pre-booked private car with a driver. The journey covers approximately 22 kilometres and typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes by road, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Makassar.
I am Siti Nurhaliza Daeng Tanang, and I document airport operations for Makassar Fast Track. My role involves confirming every detail against the operator’s published information. When you land at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG), understanding your onward travel options into Makassar city is key. This guide outlines the current choices for reaching your destination efficiently and safely, based on information verified in October 2026.
How Far is Makassar Airport from the City, and What Are Real Travel Times?
Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG) is situated in Maros Regency, approximately 22 kilometres northeast of Makassar city centre. This distance, while not excessive, means that travel time can vary significantly based on traffic volume. During off-peak hours, a journey from the airport to central Makassar can take as little as 30 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, expect travel times to extend to 60 minutes or even longer.
The main route connecting the airport to Makassar city is via the Trans-Makassar Toll Road (JTSE). Using this toll road generally provides the quickest passage, bypassing local road congestion. The toll fee is separate from your transport fare and is typically covered by your driver, then added to your total if you use a taxi or ride-hailing app, or included in a pre-booked transfer. Understanding this airport to Makassar city distance helps in planning your schedule, especially for connecting flights or important appointments.
When considering how far Makassar Airport is from the city, remember that your specific destination within Makassar will also influence the total journey time. Areas like Losari Beach, Panakkukang, or Citraland Celebes each have slightly different travel times from the airport. Our team at Makassar Fast Track tracks real-time traffic data, allowing us to provide accurate estimates for your specific transfer needs.
Official Airport Taxi Counter and Zoned Fares
For a structured and reliable option, the official airport taxi services, operated by Kopata and Kopami, provide a straightforward way to get from Makassar Airport to the city. You will find their dedicated counter immediately outside the arrival terminal. These taxis operate on a zoned fare system, ensuring transparent pricing to various parts of the metropolitan area.
The city of Makassar and its surrounding areas are categorised into three distinct zones, each with a fixed fare. This system eliminates haggling and provides predictability for your journey. Simply state your destination, and the counter staff will advise the correct zone and corresponding fare. Payment is typically made at the counter or directly to the driver upon arrival, depending on the specific taxi cooperative’s policy.
Makassar Airport Official Taxi Zones and Fares (Kopata/Kopami)
Here is a breakdown of the official taxi zones and their corresponding fares:
These fares are fixed rates for direct transfers to the specified zones. Confirm your exact destination with the counter staff to ensure you are assigned the correct zone. Official airport taxis are a safe and regulated choice for arriving passengers. They offer a comfortable ride and drivers are familiar with the local routes. This is a primary method for how to get from Makassar Airport to the city with clarity on pricing.
Transarbagita Bus: Price, Hours, and Two Routes
For a more economical option, the Transarbagita bus service, operated by Perum Damri, provides public transport from Makassar Airport to key locations within the city. This service is a convenient choice for budget-conscious travellers and those who do not carry excessive luggage. The buses are generally clean and offer air conditioning.
The Transarbagita bus pick-up point is located just outside the arrival terminal, clearly signposted. The service operates daily from 08:00 to 20:00. This schedule is important to note, particularly for late-night arrivals, as the bus service will not be available. This makes it significantly cheaper than taxi alternatives.
Transarbagita Bus Routes
The Transarbagita bus service operates two primary routes into Makassar city:
- Route 1: To Citraland Celebes
This route takes passengers from the airport to Citraland Celebes, passing through several major arteries. The bus travels from Terminal Daya, then to the airport, Terminal Regional Daya, Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan, Jl. Urip Sumoharjo, Jl. A. P. Pettarani, Jl. Sultan Alauddin, Jl. Hertasning, before reaching Citraland Celebes. - Route 2: To Losari Beach
The second route serves the popular Losari Beach area. This bus also departs from Terminal Daya, then the airport, Terminal Regional Daya, Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan, Jl. Urip Sumoharjo, Jl. A. P. Pettarani, Jl. Sultan Alauddin, Jl. Metro Tanjung Bunga, finally arriving at Losari Beach.
Both routes offer stops at various points along their respective paths, allowing passengers to alight closer to their specific destinations. If your destination is along one of these routes, the Transarbagita bus is a practical choice. Some Transarbagita buses are wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive option for travellers requiring this facility. It is advisable to confirm accessibility with the bus staff upon arrival if this is a critical requirement.
For more detailed information on airport facilities and services, including general transport advice, you may wish to consult our comprehensive Makassar Airport Guide.
Grab and Gojek at Makassar Airport: Pick-up and Usage
Ride-hailing applications like Grab and Gojek are widely used in Makassar and offer a convenient option for airport transfers. Many travellers wonder, “Is there Uber in Makassar Airport?” While Uber no longer operates independently in Indonesia, Grab has absorbed much of its former market, and Gojek remains a strong local competitor. Both apps provide on-demand transport services directly from UPG.
Makassar Airport has a dedicated “Grab/Gojek Shelter” located outside the arrival terminal. This designated pick-up point streamlines the process for both passengers and drivers. Once you have collected your luggage, exit the terminal and follow the signs to this shelter. It is important to wait at this official point for your ride-hailing vehicle. Ordering a car from unauthorised areas can lead to confusion or difficulty connecting with your driver.
To use these services, you need a local SIM card or active roaming data to access the apps. Prices for Grab and Gojek vary based on demand, time of day, and traffic conditions. The fare is typically displayed in the app before you confirm your booking, providing transparency. This method offers flexibility and convenience, especially for those comfortable with app-based services. It is a popular way to get from Makassar Airport to the city for many visitors.
Pre-booked Car with Driver: Convenience and Specific Needs
For those seeking maximum comfort, convenience, or requiring specific arrangements, a pre-booked car with a driver offers a superior experience. This option is particularly beneficial for larger groups, families with children, travellers with extensive luggage, or individuals requiring wheelchair accessible airport transfer in Makassar.
Makassar Fast Track specialises in arranging private, pre-booked transfers directly from UPG. When you book with us, a professional driver meets you directly in the arrivals area, holding a sign with your name. This eliminates any waiting, navigating, or language barriers. Our vehicles are well-maintained and our drivers are experienced with local routes, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to your destination in Makassar. We directly arrange these services at transparent, published rates with no third-party markup.
This service is ideal for:
- Delegations and Protocol Arrivals: Ensuring a seamless, dignified transfer for official guests.
- Families and Groups: Providing ample space for passengers and luggage, with child seats available on request.
- Wheelchair Accessible Transfers: We can arrange suitable vehicles to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs, ensuring comfort and safety from the moment you arrive.
- Late-Night Arrivals: Guaranteeing a reliable pick-up even outside public transport operating hours.
- Transfers Beyond Makassar: If your destination is further afield, such as Makassar Airport to Parepare (approximately 150 km away), a pre-booked private car is the most practical and comfortable solution. We can arrange intercity transfers directly to your hotel or specific address in Parepare or other regional destinations.
We pride ourselves on providing concrete, first-hand service. Our team coordinates directly with our licensed local partners who operate the vehicles, ensuring a high standard of service. For a personalised quote or to discuss specific requirements, including meet and greet services at the terminal, please contact our reservations team.
Planning your arrival ensures a stress-free start to your visit. For assistance with pre-booked transfers or to inquire about our Meet & Assist services, you can reach us directly. Our team is available via WhatsApp for prompt planning.
Toll Road: What We Do Not Publish (and What We Do)
The Trans-Makassar Toll Road (JTSE) connects Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to the city of Makassar. Utilising this toll road significantly reduces travel time by bypassing local traffic congestion. When you travel by taxi, ride-hailing app, or a pre-booked car, the driver typically uses this toll road. The toll fees are an additional charge. We do not publish specific toll amounts as these can fluctuate and are generally integrated into your fare calculation by the service provider.
What we do confirm is that the toll road is the most efficient route. It offers a direct path, making your journey quicker and more predictable. All reputable transport providers at UPG use this route as standard for city transfers. This ensures the 30-60 minute travel time estimates are generally achievable. Your fare from official airport taxis or pre-booked services will either include this or clearly state it as an extra. Ride-hailing apps will factor it into their quoted price.
For more details on navigating the airport’s immediate vicinity, including where your driver can pick you up, refer to our Makassar Airport Parking and Pickup Zone guide.
Late-Night Arrivals at UPG
Arriving at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport late at night requires specific consideration for onward travel. The public transport options, primarily the Transarbagita bus, cease operations at 20:00. This means that if your flight lands after this time, your choices for getting from Makassar Airport to the city become more limited to private transport solutions.
For late-night arrivals, the recommended options are:
- Official Airport Taxis: The official Kopata/Kopami taxi counter generally operates until the last flight arrival. You can still find these zoned taxis available. Their fixed fares provide clarity even at late hours.
- Pre-booked Private Car with Driver: This is the most secure and comfortable option for late arrivals. With a pre-booked service through Makassar Fast Track, your driver monitors your flight status and will be waiting for you, regardless of delays. This ensures a seamless transition from the airport to your accommodation without the stress of finding transport in the dark.
- Ride-hailing Apps: Grab and Gojek services are often available late at night, but demand can be higher, and wait times might be longer. Surge pricing may also apply, increasing the fare. While generally reliable, relying solely on an app for a very late arrival carries a small element of uncertainty.
Planning ahead for late-night arrivals is crucial. Booking a private transfer offers peace of mind and guarantees your onward journey from UPG. We arrange all necessary details in advance, ensuring a driver is ready for you.
For a personalised quote or to discuss your specific transfer needs, including any special requirements for late-night arrivals or group bookings, please do not hesitate to contact our desk. We are available to assist with your planning via WhatsApp.
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Request a Quote for Your Makassar Airport Transfer
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Frequently Asked Questions About Makassar Airport Transfers
Listed prices we checked
Partner and operator listings, each with its source and the month we checked it. Indicative only; the written quote from our desk is the binding figure.
| Item | Listed price | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official airport taxi, zone tariff | Zone 1 Rp133.000 · Zone 2 Rp175.000 · Zone 3 Rp205.000 | hasanuddin-airport.id | Oct 2026 |
| Transarbagita airport bus to the city (08.00–20.00 WITA) | IDR 30.000 | hasanuddin-airport.id | Oct 2026 |
| Hotel airport shuttle, Harper Perintis (per vehicle, max 2 pax, one way) | Rp125.000 | klook.com | Oct 2026 |
| Private transfer UPG → city (listing); Makassar–Toraja private transfer, English-speaking driver, 11–12 h (per group) | from US$10; from US$250 | viator.com | Oct 2026 |
How do I get from Makassar Airport to Pare Pare?
To get from Makassar Airport to Pare Pare, which is approximately 150 kilometres north of Makassar, the most convenient option is a pre-booked private car with a driver. This provides a direct and comfortable intercity transfer. While public buses operate between Makassar city and Pare Pare, a private car collected directly at UPG eliminates the need to first travel into Makassar city and then transfer to an intercity bus terminal. Makassar Fast Track can arrange these long-distance private transfers for you.
Is there Uber in Makassar Airport?
No, Uber as a standalone service does not operate in Makassar Airport or Indonesia. Its operations were absorbed by Grab in Southeast Asia. Therefore, if you are looking for ride-hailing app services at UPG, you should use Grab or Gojek. Both apps have a dedicated pick-up shelter outside the arrival terminal at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport.
What is the Makassar airport bus fare?
This fare applies to both routes operated by Perum Damri, which travel to Citraland Celebes and Losari Beach. The bus service operates daily from 08:00 to 20:00, with pick-up points located outside the arrival terminal.
How far is Makassar Airport from the city centre?
Makassar Airport (Sultan Hasanuddin International, UPG) is approximately 22 kilometres from the city centre of Makassar. The journey by road typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. The primary route uses the Trans-Makassar Toll Road (JTSE) to ensure efficiency.
Can I get a wheelchair accessible airport transfer in Makassar?
Yes, you can arrange a wheelchair accessible airport transfer in Makassar. The Transarbagita bus service offers some buses that are wheelchair accessible; it is advisable to confirm availability upon arrival. For guaranteed accessibility and personalised service, Makassar Fast Track can arrange private, pre-booked vehicles specifically equipped to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs, ensuring a comfortable and safe transfer directly from UPG to your destination.