Long Apung (LPU) is a small airport serving Borneo Island, a destination known for its rainforests, indigenous culture, and natural beauty. If you have a layover here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a unique corner of Southeast Asia, though planning is essential given the airport’s limited amenities and services.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality and destination requirements |
| Language | Indonesian is the primary language. Download a translation app before landing – airport WiFi may be unreliable |
| Currency | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters |
| Transit Time | Factor in immigration and security time. For international connections, allow at least 2.5-3 hours before departure |
Getting to the City
Long Apung airport is small and serves the Borneo region. For specific transit options from LPU to the city center, check the airport’s official website or contact your airline for ground transportation details.
General Transit Tips:
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing
- Keep your passport, phone, and wallet in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt when exploring
- Share your location with a trusted contact if traveling solo
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
LPU is a Tier 3 airport with limited amenities. Plan accordingly:
- Luggage Storage: Use services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero to store bags near the airport (typically $5-10/bag/day) – much cheaper than airport lockers
- Lounges: Check if your airline or credit card offers lounge access. Priority Pass provides access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide
- WiFi: Download offline entertainment before your layover, as airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited
- Food: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices. If you’re leaving the airport, eat in town instead
In the City / Borneo Region
Borneo is renowned for its natural attractions and cultural experiences. Depending on your layover length, consider:
- Rainforest Exploration: Borneo’s rainforests are among the world’s oldest. Short guided tours may be available for layover travelers
- Local Markets: Experience indigenous culture and local crafts at traditional markets
- River Activities: Depending on proximity, river tours or boat trips may be available
- Local Cuisine: Try regional dishes at local restaurants – significantly cheaper and more authentic than airport options
Layover Length: How Much Time Do You Need?
| Layover Duration | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| 2-4 hours | Stay at the airport. Rest, eat, use WiFi, and prepare for your next flight |
| 4-6 hours | Quick city visit if you’re comfortable with tight timing. Explore nearby markets or grab a meal in town |
| 6+ hours | Comfortable time to leave the airport, explore the city, and return without stress |
| Overnight | Book a hotel or use luggage storage to explore more extensively. Assign rotating watch shifts if traveling in a group |
Quick Tips for Your LPU Layover
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Bring an empty water bottle: Fill it after security to stay hydrated and manage jet lag
- Get an eSIM: Services like Airalo or Holafly provide instant data without hunting for WiFi
- For groups: Designate a group leader, use WhatsApp for coordination, and pin flight details as a group message
- Always factor in immigration + security time when deciding if you can leave the airport
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave LPU airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave LPU airport during a layover if you have enough time. Always factor in immigration, security, and travel time back to the airport. For international connections, allow at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. For layovers under 4 hours, staying at the airport is safer.
What is there to do at LPU during a layover?
At the airport, you can rest, eat, use WiFi, and access luggage storage. If you leave the airport, explore local markets, try regional cuisine, or take short guided tours of Borneo’s rainforests. Eat in the city rather than the airport – food is 2-3x cheaper outside.
How long of a layover do I need at LPU?
For a quick airport visit, 2-4 hours is sufficient. For a city visit, aim for 6+ hours. Overnight layovers give you the most flexibility to explore Borneo. Always add 15-30 minutes extra if traveling in a group.
Are there lounges at LPU?
LPU is a small airport with limited amenities. Check if your airline or credit card offers lounge access. Priority Pass provides access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide. One-time day passes are available from most major airlines ($39-$59).
Is there luggage storage at LPU?
Use third-party services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near LPU (typically $5-10/bag/day). These are much cheaper than airport lockers and allow you to explore hands-free.
Make the Most of Your Layover
A layover in Long Apung gives you a rare chance to experience Borneo’s unique culture and natural beauty. Whether you stay at the airport or venture into the city, planning ahead ensures a smooth, enjoyable connection.
Ready to optimize your layover? Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what you can realistically do during your stop.