A layover in Cilacap is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Tunggul Wulung Airport sits just 50 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.
Before You Step Outside CXP
A few things to sort out before you leave CXP:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Indonesia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Cilacap takes about 50 minutes by Taxi / Ride-hailing. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is IDR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IDR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from CXP to Cilacap
You have two main options for getting from Tunggul Wulung Airport into town:
- Taxi / Ride-hailing: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Cilacap, budget roughly $19 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $4 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Cilacap.
Luggage Storage at CXP
Specific locker facilities at CXP aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Cilacap itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Cilacap, here are two things worth checking out:
Teluk Penyu Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Benteng Pendem Cilacap is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Cilacap.
If you’d rather stay inside CXP — 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:
- CXP Terminal Waiting Area
- Local Souvenir & Snack Counter
Best Bites Near CXP
For food in Cilacap, local travelers recommend Sate Ayam Pak Diran. If you have time for a second stop, Warung Makan Bu Lastri (Seafood) is another popular pick.
Back at CXP, CXP Airport Cafe is the go-to. Indonesian Food Stall (CXP) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CXP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CXP 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CXP for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Cilacap 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 Cilacap doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from CXP, 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.