Passing through El Tari Airport? A layover in Kupang is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of KOE:
- 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 75-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Kupang
If you head into Kupang, here are two things worth checking out:
Lasiana Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Taman Nostalgia (Nostalgia Park) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside KOE — 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:
- Concordia Lounge El Tari Airport
- El Tari Airport Souvenir Shops
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Restoran Dapur Kupang and RM Seafood Teluk Kupang are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kupang.
- At the airport: Warung Makan Terminal and Terminal Coffee Corner will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Kupang from KOE
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kupang:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at KOE 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 Kupang for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KOE, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kupang 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at KOE include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Indonesia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Kupang 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.