Makassar, day 4! My brother in-law, Luli and I decided the day before that I need to visit Bantimurung. I visited there when I was in middle school, I think. This place is known for their waterfalls and their caves. Tons of people, especially in the weekend would fill this travel destination. The waterfalls feels refreshing in a hot humid Makassar/Maros weather all year long.

Luli and I went to Goa Batu ( Rock Cave ). It’s about 1 km from the entrance and hiked up about 100 steps. This cave is not really deep, maybe about 100 meters in.

And then we both decided to see the Goa Mimpi ( Dream Cave ) on the last minute. We’re debating wether or not to go because it’s more challenging hike. The tour guide said it’s about 2 km total from the hike up to the entrance to the cave , to the hike down all the way out and you’d find yourself back to the parking lot. I was feeling brave. I thought, “ I flew 9,268 miles from Kansas City. And now we’re here in Bantimurung. Might as well do it”. I asked Luli if he was up for this hike and he said, “Let’s do it!” I could see the faces of the tour guides doubting me. Of course! I am in no way fit to do the 2km walk, let alone do over 700 steps up, walk 830 meters inside the 24-7 total dark cave, and climbed down the nature stairs down back to the village. Because that’s what we have to go through to see Goa Mimpi, or the Dream Cave. Man, oh man… I start regretting my decision just after maybe 100 steps up! I was out of breath. “I should’ve train a marathon before I came here”, I thought. I don’t wanna be embarrassed though and continued to hiked up. After 4 or 5 stops for break, we finally reached the entrance. Yes! The tour guides provided us with the head lamps to walk inside the cave. And they explained about the rocks formation, and how this place was under the sea millions years ago. Very neat! Luli and I high-fived in the car. I didn’t even care that I was drenched in sweats. I felt like a big accomplishment for me. “This big mama can still do it!” 🤣 Would I do it again? Maybe not anytime soon.