Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Kao gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from KAZ to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Local taxis/ojeks, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Kao, 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: Kao is roughly 30 minutes from KAZ via Local taxis/ojeks. 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.
Transport from Kao Airport to Downtown
From KAZ, the Local taxis/ojeks gets you to Kao in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local taxis/ojeks offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What’s Worth Seeing in Kao
If you head into Kao, here are two things worth checking out:
Tobelo Market (Pasar Tobelo) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Miracle Beach (Pantai Kahona) 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.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KAZ, you can spend time at Local Souvenir & Snack Kiosk or try KAZ Airport Waiting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kao: Rumah Makan Sederhana Tobelo and Rumah Makan Sari Laut Tobelo. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for KAZ Airport Canteen or Kopi & Roti Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Kao layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Kao, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Kao Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at KAZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kao’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
You’ll find free WiFi at KAZ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kao 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at KAZ
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KAZ 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
A layover in Kao with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Kao may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.