Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Alor Island gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from ARD to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi/Shared Van, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of ARD:
- Can you legally enter Indonesia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shared Van, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the IDR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Alor Island is the Taxi/Shared Van, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Shared Van is usually the smarter call.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at ARD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Alor Island itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Alor Island layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Alor Island
Two recommendations for your time in Alor Island:
Start with Mali Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Mali Village Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ARD, you can spend time at Mali Airport Waiting Area or try Tropical Air & Runway Views. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Alor Island, local travelers recommend Warung Makan Sederhana Mali. If you have time for a second stop, Mali Beachside Warung is another popular pick.
Back at ARD, Mali Airport Cafeteria is the go-to. Mali Airport Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ARD should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Indonesia and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ARD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Alor Island exploring the streets or relaxing at ARD, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.