A layover in Saumlaki is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Saumlaki/Olilit Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Ojek, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SXK:
- 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 45-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ojek, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the IDR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Saumlaki
From SXK, the Taxi/Ojek gets you to Saumlaki in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 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/Ojek offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Saumlaki Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Saumlaki layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SXK aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Saumlaki itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Saumlaki, two standouts are:
- Weluan Beach (Pantai Weluan) — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- Pasar Saumlaki (Saumlaki Market) — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SXK, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Local Souvenir Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Saumlaki, local travelers recommend RM. Sinar Jaya. If you have time for a second stop, Warung Makan Ibu Nur is another popular pick.
Back at SXK, Airport Refreshment Counter is the go-to. Local Food Stall (Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SXK 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SXK for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Saumlaki 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Saumlaki is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Saumlaki.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.