How to get to Bajawa

Nestled in the mountainous heart of Flores Island in Indonesia, the atmospheric town of Bajawa attracts travellers with its refreshingly cool climate, majestic volcanoes, and the unique culture of local tribes. If you have decided to visit this vibrant region, it is helpful to know that there are several ways to reach the town: by taking a convenient domestic flight, or by embarking on a journey by bus or car. Below, we explore in detail how to get to Bajawa so you can choose the most suitable route for your journey.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach this picturesque corner is by air. Unlike many other small towns in the region, Bajawa has its own airport, Soa Airport (IATA: BJW), which receives regular domestic flights.

Travellers most often fly here from Denpasar (Bali) or Kupang. The flight is usually operated by small turboprop aircraft, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the volcanoes and jungles of Flores Island even before landing. Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily find a taxi or transfer to reach the town, which is located just a 20–30 minute drive away.

Reaching Bajawa by train is not possible, as there is absolutely no railway service on Flores Island. The railway network in Indonesia operates mainly on the densely populated islands of Java and Sumatra and does not extend to this remote region.

Neighbouring towns, such as Ruteng and Ende, also lack railway stations, so it is impossible to plan a combined route involving a train. To travel around the island, tourists must use road transport or local buses plying the scenic mountain roads.

Travelling by bus across Flores Island becomes an exciting excursion thanks to the picturesque winding roads and views of volcanic slopes. One of the most popular routes is from Ruteng: covering the 130-kilometre journey will take you about 4–5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the coolness of the mountain forests and authentic villages along the way.

An equally scenic highway leads to the town from the east, from the direction of Ende; this transfer usually lasts about 4 hours and covers a distance of 125 kilometres. For travellers planning a complex inter-island route, there are options from Waingapu that combine a ferry crossing with subsequent land travel to the heart of Flores.

A car trip across Flores Island is a true adventure amidst volcanic landscapes and the steep winding turns of the Trans-Flores Highway. The most popular western route leads from Ruteng: covering 135 kilometres will take about 4–5 hours due to the challenging terrain, while the road from the east, from Ende, spanning 125 kilometres, will require approximately 4 hours of driving. Travellers departing from Waingapu (Sumba Island) face more complex logistics involving a ferry crossing to the port of Aimere, from where Bajawa is just about an hour's drive away.

For comfortable travel, tourists most often hire a car with an experienced local driver, as self-driving on narrow mountain roads can be tiring. The cost of such a service, including fuel, usually ranges from 700,000 to 1,000,000 Indonesian Rupiah per day, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views of the jungles and rice terraces along the way.

A trip to mountainous Bajawa will offer you a unique experience, distinct from the usual beach holiday in Indonesia. To ensure your trip to this distinctive region is as comfortable and smooth as possible, we have compiled a list of important practical recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Bajawa is located at an altitude of over 1,000 metres, so it is significantly cooler here than on the coast. Be sure to bring warm clothing, a fleece jacket, and long trousers for the evening and morning hours, as well as comfortable closed shoes for walking in the hilly terrain.
2. Transport: Public transport (bemo) runs irregularly and is often overcrowded. For comfortable sightseeing, it is most convenient to rent a motorbike or hire a car with a driver for the whole day — this will save time and allow you to reach remote hot springs and traditional settlements.
3. Finances: There are ATMs in the town, but they may not accept certain types of foreign cards or may be out of cash. Small shops, markets, and villages only accept cash, so ensure you have a sufficient supply of Indonesian Rupiah in advance.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in beverages at simple street cafes. Although the climate here is cool, mosquitoes can be active, so the use of repellents is mandatory, especially when visiting natural sites.
5. Communication: English is less common here than in Bali; it is understood mainly by hotel staff and guides. We recommend learning a few basic phrases in Indonesian or downloading an offline translator — locals greatly appreciate attempts to communicate in their language.
6. Local Etiquette: When visiting traditional Ngada villages, behave with restraint and respect. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), do not enter homes without an invitation, and always ask for permission before photographing local residents.
7. What to Avoid: Do not plan night drives between towns on a motorbike. Mountain roads are often winding, poorly lit, and can be shrouded in thick fog, making driving in the dark dangerous.
8. Bonus Tip: Be sure to visit local markets or weaving villages to see the process of creating traditional "Ikat" fabrics. Buying textiles directly from the artisans is the best way to support the local economy and take home an authentic souvenir.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing region. Bajawa is a place where you should slow down, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and connect with the ancient traditions of Flores Island.