A long layover in Biak is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Frans Kaisiepo Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 35 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of BIK:
- 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 35-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. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IDR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Biak, here are two things worth checking out:
Japanese Caves (Goa Jepang) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Amir Effendi Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BIK, check out Terminal Waiting Area & Plane Spotting or Airport Souvenir & Convenience Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Biak: RM. Ratu Papua and Warung Makan Bu Haji. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Terminal Food Stall or Coffee Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Biak
The most straightforward way into Biak is the Taxi / Shared Van, which takes about 35 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 55 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Shared Van is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Biak Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Biak might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Frans Kaisiepo Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at BIK may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Biak’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BIK, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Biak itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Indonesia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BIK 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Biak genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.