Cultural trek in Sulawesi between rice paddies and Toraja rituals

Early morning transfer to Toraja country and more specifically its capital, Rantepao, which stretches along the banks of the Sa'dan River, nestled in a magnificent valley surrounded by verdant mountains. Lunch stop by the sea in Pare Pare.

A full day exploring Toraja Country (south of Rantepao). The Toraja people live in "tongkonan" houses, shaped like the hulls of boats. They worship the water buffalo, which they believe is the only animal capable of carrying the souls of the deceased to their ancestors. The Toraja are also known for their elaborate funeral ceremonies, which last several days, and their system of hanging tombs built into the cliffs. During the day, you will discover several sites: the Londa cliff, with its burial niches, nestled amidst rice paddies and clove trees; the village of Kete Kesu with its traditional houses and rice granaries; and the Suaya rock, believed to be inhabited by souls, with its royal tombs. After lunch, you'll visit the newborn graves at Sanggala, then stop at a spice plantation before arriving in Lemo, one of the most beautiful Toraja villages, nestled against a cliff face riddled with countless tombs and niches containing Tau-Tau (dolls representing the deceased). Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

The day is dedicated to exploring the magnificent landscapes north of Rantepao. You begin with a short walk around Lempo, among coffee plantations and cocoa fields. On foot, you cross several villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the Toraja people. After lunch, you stop at the village of Palawa, perched on a small hill. This traditional village is well worth a visit: its "tongkonan," with their painted facades adorned with impressive buffalo horns, facing their rice granaries, are stunning. Then, before returning to Rantepao, you visit a traditional weaving center in the village of Sangkombong.

Departure for Mengkendek, where you begin a 3-day trek through rice paddies and Toraja villages, allowing you to further appreciate local customs and traditions. In the evening, the locals will even treat you to a delicious traditional meal.

You resume your walk in the early morning, through jungle, terraced rice paddies and traditional villages: total immersion.

The final day of hiking takes you through a bamboo forest, coffee plantations, and rice paddies. You'll reach Rantepao in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free.

Transfer to Se'Seng village, from where you'll hike to the Maulu River. Then, enjoy a pleasant rafting trip (no prior experience necessary). Return to Rantepao in the afternoon.

Early morning transfer to the charming little town of Sengkang, nestled along the banks of the Walanae River. You'll then board a fishing boat to explore Lake Tempe and its floating houses. This vast, shallow lake sometimes dries up completely when the rains are unpredictable. In such cases, the boat trip is not possible, and your guide will offer an alternative hike. Lake Tempe is also home to a rich variety of birdlife. If you are quiet enough, you might have the chance to observe several species of egrets, herons, ibises, bitterns, cranes, and more up close.

Early this morning, transfer to the Kajang region, where you will meet the Ammatoa tribes, who have preserved their traditional customs and traditions, rejecting modern life. Enjoy a privileged and unique moment with these villagers who live almost entirely self-sufficiently. With a bit of luck, you might even have the opportunity to meet the traditional chief, renowned for his power and influence. In the afternoon, travel to Bira, a peaceful fishing village with beautiful beaches. The rest of the day is free.

Early this morning, you'll board a boat to Liukang Island, an ideal spot for snorkeling in the magnificent surrounding coral reefs. In the afternoon, you'll visit the charming village of Tanaberu, nestled among coconut palms and home to one of the island's main Bugis shipbuilding yards. Here, artisans craft one of the oldest traditional fleets in the world. Return to Bira in the late afternoon.

Free morning to relax by the sea before heading to Makassar.

Free time until the transfer to the airport. End of the trip.