A long layover in Bima is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Muhammad Salahuddin Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Bima, 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: Bima is roughly 50 minutes from BMU via Taxi/Ojek. 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.
How to Get Into Bima
The most straightforward way into Bima is the Taxi/Ojek, which takes about 50 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 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Ojek is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Bima, budget roughly $18 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $3 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at BMU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Bima for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Bima, two standouts are:
- Bima Sultanate Palace (Asi Mbojo) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Pantai Amahami (Amahami Beach) — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BMU — 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:
- Passenger Waiting Area
- Local Snack & Souvenir Stalls
Eating Well on a Bima Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Bima: RM. Kamboja Bima and Dapur Kuliner Bima. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Dining Corner or Coffee & Snack Express. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Sleep & Lounge Options at BMU
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at BMU.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BMU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Bima or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Bima doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from BMU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.