Complate Guide: How to Get to Sumba – Hello Hey Bali Friend! If you are planning a vacation to Sumba, you definitely need to know the most practical way to reach this exotic island from Bali or Jakarta. Sumba is indeed famous for its stunning natural beauty, from white sand beaches, charming green hills, to unique local culture.
Well, this time Hey Bali will share a complete guide on how to get to Sumba with various transportation options to choose from, ranging from airplanes to other alternatives. Let’s start the adventure!
How to Get to Sumba from Bali or Jakarta By Airplane to Sumba
Airport Options in Sumba
The quickest and most practical way to get to Sumba is of course by airplane. In Sumba, there are two main airports that Hey Bali can choose from, namely Tambolaka Airport (TMC) located in Southwest Sumba, and Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport (WGP) in Waingapu, East Sumba. Both airports serve flights from major cities in Indonesia, including Bali and Jakarta. So, just pick whether you want to fly into the western or eastern part of Sumba, and get ready for an epic adventure on this exotic island!
Airlines Serving Routes to Sumba
For Hey Bali Pals departing from Bali or Jakarta, there are several airlines that serve direct or transit flights to Sumba. Here are some of them:
- Garuda Indonesia: This national airline provides flights from Jakarta and Bali to Waingapu with transit in Kupang or Denpasar. Garuda is known for its comfortable and punctual service, perfect for Hey Bali pals who want a stress-free vacation.
- Lion Air: A budget-friendly option serving routes from Bali or Jakarta to Waingapu and Tambolaka, usually with one transit in Lombok or Kupang. Although the flights are more economical, keep in mind that schedules can sometimes change.
- Wings Air: This Lion Air subsidiary operates flights from Bali to Tambolaka and Waingapu. It usually uses smaller ATR aircraft, but they are still comfortable for short trips.
- Batik Air: This airline also offers flights from Jakarta to Waingapu with a transit in Denpasar. The service is similar to Lion Air, but with more complete facilities.
Tips for Choosing the Right Flight
Choosing the right flight is very important to ensure that your Hey Bali trip goes smoothly. Here are some tips to consider:
Check Transit and Flight Duration: Some flights require transit, so make sure you choose a schedule that allows enough time between flights.
Book Tickets in Advance: Especially during the holiday season, ticket prices can soar. Booking your tickets early can help you save money.
Consider the Destination Airport: If your main destination is the western region of Sumba such as Nihiwatu, choose a flight to Tambolaka Airport. While if the main destination is the eastern region such as Walakiri Beach, Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport in Waingapu can be the best choice.
The cheapest ticket price range from Bali to Sumba at the time of writing this article is $80 and this will be different if you depart during high season, then prices can reach $ 100 per person for one way. Of course, the ticket price will be more expensive if the departure starts from Jakarta. Hey Bali pals can check flight tickets on Booking.com or the famous local flight ticket sales application in Indonesia, Traveloka.
Alternative Transportation How to Get to Sumba from Bali or Jakarta
Sea Ship as a Frugal Choice
In addition to airplanes, Hey Friend Bali can also consider traveling by ship. Although it takes longer, this option can be an experience in itself, especially for those who want to enjoy sea travel.
From Bali, you can take a ferry from Padang Bai Port to Lembar Port in Lombok, then continue the journey to Sumba by ship from Tanjung Luar Port in East Lombok or from Benoa Port in Bali.
For services from Bali to Sumba, there is a passenger ship named KM AWU owned by Pelni which serves the route from Bali (Tanjung Benoa) to Waingapu, Sumba. The duration of the trip at sea is about 30 hours, and the ticket price for this AWU passenger ship ranges from $25 per person. You can check the Pelni website for certainty of departure date.
In Jakarta, Hey Bali pals can start the journey from Tanjung Priok Port to Waingapu or Tambolaka Port. This trip usually takes several days, depending on the weather and ship schedules. Our advice is that from Jakarta you use a bus with the destination Jakarta to Bima, NTB and from Bima you continue the journey using the Ferry from Sape, Bima to Sumba. The journey is quite time-consuming and tiring, so it’s worth considering the option of using a plane.
Overland from Lombok or Flores
Another interesting alternative is to travel overland from Lombok or Flores. Hey Bali buddies can start the adventure from Lombok, head to Bima on Sumbawa Island, then cross to Sumba using a ferry. Or, you can also start the journey from Labuan Bajo, Flores, and continue by boat to Sumba.
This overland journey does require extra time and effort, but the beautiful scenery along the way will definitely make this experience unforgettable.
Recommended Itinerary and Cost Estimation
Itinerary 5 Days 4 Nights in Sumba
For Hey Bali pals who depart from Bali or Jakarta, here is an example of a 5-day 4-night itinerary in Sumba that can be used as a reference:
Day 1:
Morning flight from Bali/Jakarta to Waingapu
Check-in at the hotel in Waingapu
Visit Walakiri Beach to enjoy the sunset
Day 2:
Explore Wairinding Hill
Visit to Tanggedu Waterfall
Dinner at a local restaurant in Waingapu
Day 3:
Travel to Southwest Sumba
Visit to Ratenggaro Traditional Village
Check-in at a hotel around Tambolaka
Day 4:
Excursion to Nihiwatu Beach
Lunch at Nihiwatu Resort (optional)
Go to Waikuri Lagoon
Back to hotel in Tambolaka
Day 5:
Morning flight from Tambolaka to Bali/Jakarta
Estimated Travel Cost Itenerary 5 Day 4 Night To Sumba
Okay, Hey Bali buddy! Now Hey Bali will give you a breakdown of the cost of traveling to Sumba in dollars. So, you can more easily calculate the budget for a vacation to this exotic island.
Airfare
For airfare from Bali or Jakarta to Sumba, the ticket price ranges from $200 – $550 round-trip, depending on the airline chosen and the season. If it’s high season, tickets can be more expensive, so make sure to book well in advance!
Accommodation
Staying in Sumba can really be adjusted to the budget of Hey Bali Friend. Accommodation prices start from $20 – $140 per night. So, whether you want to stay in a cozy homestay or a luxury resort on the beach, there’s something for everyone!
Local Transportation
To rent a car or motorbike while in Sumba, it costs around $60 – $70 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the rental. If you want to save money, you can also share a vehicle with friends to reduce the cost. To make it easier, you can rent land transportation in the form of a car with prices starting from $ 63 per car and fits 4 people in one car. Price includes a professional driver, car using AC and fuel during the trip. Contact Hey Bali if you are interested in this option.
Eating and Drinking
When it comes to eating and drinking, Hey Bali buddies can enjoy local cuisine with a budget of around $3 – $15 per meal. Whether you want to eat at a simple food stall or a restaurant with a beach view, everything can be adjusted to your taste and budget.
Important Tips Before Leaving for Sumba
Check the Weather and Season
Sumba has a tropical climate with well-defined dry and rainy seasons. The dry season, which usually runs from May to October, is the best time to visit. The sunny weather allows you to explore the beaches and hills comfortably. Before leaving, be sure to check the weather forecast to avoid any unexpected incidents.
Prepare for Road Conditions
Sumba is an island with unspoiled nature, so some roads may be less smooth and winding. If you plan to rent a car or motorbike, make sure the vehicle is in good condition and ready for the terrain that may be challenging.
An Amazing Experience Awaits in Sumba
Sumba is not an easy destination to reach, but the effort you make to get there will definitely pay off with an amazing experience. From exotic beaches, rich culture, to enchanting nature, everything is waiting to be explored. Later we will discuss the list of tourist attractions in Sumba that you must visit.
Stay Connected to the Internet While in Sumba
Hey buddy Hey Bali! Even though Sumba is famous for its unspoiled nature and far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, it doesn’t mean that Hey Bali Pals have to lose connection with the outside world. So that you can still update cool insta stories or just chat with friends, Hey Bali has a simple and cheap solution. Hey Bali buddies can buy a SIM card or eSIM data package from Hey Bali which is super affordable, only $11 for 24 GB with an active period of 30 days! With this package, browse, upload photos, or watch streaming videos without having to worry about quota.
Best Operator Choice in Sumba: Telkomsel
When it comes to signal, Telkomsel is the best choice in Sumba. Telkomsel’s network is known for its wide coverage, even in remote areas. So, Hey Bali pals don’t need to worry about losing the signal when you’re busy traveling in Sumba. By using a Telkomsel SIM card or eSIM from Hey Bali, you are guaranteed to stay connected to the fast internet wherever you are in Sumba!
With this guide, Hey Bali hopes that Hey Bali pals can plan a trip to Sumba more easily and practically. Don’t forget to prepare everything well, from flight tickets, accommodation, to the itinerary, so that the vacation runs smoothly and is full of beautiful memories.
Conclusion How to Get to Sumba from Bali or Jakarta
Getting to Sumba from Bali or Jakarta does require a little effort, but with the right planning, this trip will be one of the most memorable experiences in your life. Whether by airplane, boat, or even overland travel, each option provides its own thrill and beauty. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s start planning an exciting adventure to Sumba and enjoy its natural wonders and mesmerizing culture!
Hopefully this guide helps Hey Bali Pals in planning a trip to Sumba. Happy holidays and see you on your next adventure!
