There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Sulawesi Tenggara into a quick city adventure. From TQQ, the local transport can get you into town in around 75 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TQQ:
First, verify that you can enter Indonesia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 75 minutes into Sulawesi Tenggara, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Sulawesi Tenggara from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Sulawesi Tenggara is the local transport, which takes about 75 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 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TQQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Sulawesi Tenggara itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sulawesi Tenggara might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Sulawesi Tenggara:
Start with Masjid Raya Al-Alam Kendari. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Kendari Beach Promenade. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
If you’d rather stay inside TQQ — 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:
- Maranggo Airport Executive Lounge
- Local Souvenir & Handicraft Shop TQQ
Where to Eat
- In the city: Rumah Makan Sari Rasa and Kampoeng Empang Seafood Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sulawesi Tenggara.
- At the airport: Warung Kopi TQQ and Maranggo Express Eatery will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
WiFi at TQQ 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at TQQ 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
A layover in Sulawesi Tenggara with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Sulawesi Tenggara may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.