A layover in Bau-Bau is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Betoambari Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Ride-hailing, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Bau-Bau, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Indonesia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Bau-Bau is roughly 40 minutes from BUW via Taxi/Ride-hailing. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in IDR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IDR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Bau-Bau from BUW
The most straightforward way into Bau-Bau is the Taxi/Ride-hailing, 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/Ride-hailing is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Bau-Bau:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Bau-Bau, two standouts are:
- Keraton Buton (Buton Palace Fortress) — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
- Pantai Nirwana (Nirwana Beach) — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BUW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Betoambari Airport Waiting Area
- Local Souvenir & Snack Kiosk
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Bau-Bau: RM. Tepi Laut and Rumah Makan Lesehan Pantai Kamali. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Betoambari Airport Cafe or Kopi & Roti Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at BUW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Bau-Bau itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BUW is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Bau-Bau and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at BUW
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BUW has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Bau-Bau exploring the streets or relaxing at BUW, 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.