A long layover in Labuhan Bajo is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Komodo Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave LBJ:
- 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 Labuhan Bajo takes about 30 minutes by Taxi/Motorbike Taxi (Ojek). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is IDR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Labuhan Bajo from LBJ
From LBJ, the Taxi/Motorbike Taxi (Ojek) gets you to Labuhan Bajo 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 Taxi/Motorbike Taxi (Ojek) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Labuhan Bajo:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Labuhan Bajo.
Luggage Storage at LBJ
Dedicated luggage storage at LBJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Labuhan Bajo’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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Labuhan Bajo:
Start with Batu Cermin Cave. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Labuhan Bajo. Then, if time allows, make your way to Amelia Sea View Hill. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LBJ, you can spend time at Gapura Executive Lounge or try Komodo Airport Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near LBJ
In Labuhan Bajo
If you make it into town, La Cucina is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Happy Banana.
Inside LBJ
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Coffee Corner is your main option. Local Food Stall (Warung Kopi Bandara) works too if you want something quick.
Need a Nap? Options at LBJ
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at LBJ, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at LBJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Labuhan Bajo 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Labuhan Bajo exploring the streets or relaxing at LBJ, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.