A long layover in Sampit-Borneo Island is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sampit(Hasan) Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Sampit-Borneo Island, 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: Sampit-Borneo Island is roughly 40 minutes from SMQ via Taxi / Ride-hailing. 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.
How to Get Into Sampit-Borneo Island
The most straightforward way into Sampit-Borneo Island is the Taxi / Ride-hailing, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Ride-hailing is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sampit-Borneo Island might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$3 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$18 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Sampit-Borneo Island, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to See and Do in Sampit-Borneo Island
If you head into Sampit-Borneo Island, here are two things worth checking out:
Icon Jelawat (Jelawat Monument) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Taman Kota Sampit (City 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.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SMQ, check out Airport Waiting Area or Airport Mini-Shop / Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sampit-Borneo Island: Rumah Makan Borneo and Warung Nasi Goreng Gila H. Syaiful. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Kantin Bandara SMQ or Coffee & Snacks Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near SMQ
Luggage storage options at SMQ 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 Sampit-Borneo Island for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SMQ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Indonesia and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at SMQ
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SMQ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sampit-Borneo Island doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from SMQ, 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.