How to get to Labuha

Labuha is a vibrant port city on Bacan Island, serving as the administrative centre of South Halmahera in Indonesia. Travelers are drawn here by its authentic atmosphere, where the traditions of the local residents blend seamlessly with the relaxed pace of life typical of a tropical province.

This city acts as the main gateway to the North Maluku region. Labuha makes an excellent starting point for those wishing to explore the archipelago's pristine natural beauty, enjoy views of volcanic landscapes, or set out in search of secluded beaches and hidden coves.

The most convenient way to travel to Labuha is by air. The city is served by Oesman Sadik Airport, which receives regular flights from local airlines. The terminal is located quite close to the city centre, so the journey to your accommodation will not take much time.

As the airport holds regional status, there are no direct international flights here. The route typically involves a transfer at Indonesia's larger transport hubs, most commonly Ternate or Manado. Connecting flights provide a reliable link between the island and the "mainland," and flying on a smaller aircraft offers the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the archipelago from above.

It is not possible to reach Labuha by train: on Bacan Island, as in the entire North Maluku province, railway infrastructure is completely absent. This mode of transport is developed primarily on the densely populated islands of Java and Sumatra, which are located at a significant distance from this region.

Neighbouring cities, such as Ternate, Maba, or Namlea, also lack train stations and railway tracks. Since rail services do not cover this part of the archipelago, travellers should exclusively consider air travel or maritime transport when planning their trip.

Given the region's island geography, there are no direct bus services to Labuha from neighbouring cities, and the journey always includes a mandatory sea crossing. For example, the route from Ternate (about 170 km) or Maba will require ground transport only for the transfer to the port, while the main part of the journey will be on water.

Traveling from the distant city of Namlea, located more than 400 km away, would take considerable time and require complex logistics with multiple transfers. Consequently, buses in this part of Indonesia are viewed more as auxiliary local transport rather than a primary method for reaching the resort from other provinces.

Traveling to Labuha by car is a true adventure, inextricably linked with sea crossings. The most popular route runs from Ternate: after covering about 170 km, including a ferry crossing to Babang Port, you will arrive at your destination in approximately 8 hours. The journey from Maba will take significantly longer, as you must drive over 300 km on Halmahera's roads to the coast before crossing to Bacan Island.

A trip from the distant city of Namlea, located over 400 km away, would require complex logistics involving several ferries and take more than a day, so this option is rarely chosen. Upon arrival at the port, it is most convenient to hire a private car with a driver or take a taxi; there are no fixed meters here, so the cost of the trip to your hotel should be negotiated in advance.

Preparing for a trip to Labuha requires attention to detail, given the remoteness of the region and its island nature. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible and free of unexpected surprises, we have compiled a list of the most important recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Gear. In the hot tropical climate, prioritise loose-fitting clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a hat and sunglasses, as well as a light raincoat in case of sudden downpours. Remember that Indonesia is a country with conservative traditions, so for walks around the city, please choose attire that covers your shoulders and knees.
2. Transport Within the City. Public transport in the conventional sense is virtually non-existent here. The most convenient way to get around is by "bentors" (motorized rickshaws) or "ojeks" (motorcycle taxis). It is important to remember that there are no fixed prices, so the cost of the trip must be agreed upon with the driver in advance, before boarding.
3. Financial Matters. Cash is king in Labuha. There are few ATMs in the city, and they do not always accept foreign bank cards, while card payment terminals are found only in rare large shops or hotels. We recommend withdrawing a sufficient amount of Indonesian Rupiah in larger cities before arriving here.
4. Health and First Aid. Since the city is surrounded by tropical forests, be sure to use repellents to protect against mosquitoes, especially in the evening. Pack a basic first aid kit with medication for stomach upsets, antiseptics, and antipyretics, as the assortment in local pharmacies may differ from what you are used to. Drink only bottled water.
5. Language Barrier. English is not widely spoken here; local residents speak predominantly Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) or local dialects. Before your trip, download an offline translator on your smartphone or learn a few basic phrases ("thank you", "how much is this", "hello") — this will greatly facilitate communication and endear you to the people.
6. Local Etiquette. Indonesians are very welcoming and polite. It is customary to smile when meeting. Remember the "right hand" rule: pass money, food, or items only with your right hand, as the left is considered "impure". Be sure to remove your shoes when entering a private home or a mosque.
7. What to Avoid. Strictly avoid consuming tap water, even for brushing your teeth. Also, do not raise your voice or show aggression in disputes — in local culture, this is considered a "loss of face" and will not help solve the problem, but only aggravate it.
8. A Special Souvenir. Bacan Island, where Labuha is located, is famous for its precious and semi-precious stones known as "Batu Bacan". If you are looking for a unique gift, check out the local jewellery shops, but be prepared to bargain.

Following these simple rules will help you quickly adapt to the local rhythm of life and focus on what matters most — exploring the unique nature and culture of this corner of North Maluku.