Bali has the second biggest airport in Indonesia. There are at least 60 direct flights from 19 countries and 7 States of America to there every day.[1] Bali became the perfect getaway to central and eastern Indonesia, including Padar Island. Then, how to get to Padar Island from Bali?
As one of the tourist destinations in East Nusa Tenggara, there are a lot of things that you can do here. It includes a Padar Island hike, where you can enjoy the magical view of three bays from sunrise and sunset above the hills. Aside from that, you can savor the stunning Padar Island beaches.
What is the best way to get to Padar Island? It is definitely from Bali. Here are transportation options and tips on how to choose them!
Choosing The Trip
The distance from Bali to Padar Island is around 484 km. However, you can go straight to your destination. So, here’s a complete guide about how to see Padar Island if you depart from Bali!
Plane Trip
The most convenient way is a plane trip. To reach the island, you need to follow a few steps.
1. Ngurah Rai Airport – Komodo Airport
You can book a domestic flight to Komodo Airport. Approximately four direct flights from Ngurah Rai daily cost between IDR 550,000 and IDR 750,000 (USD 33,91 and USD 46,24).
The travel time is approximately 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes. So, you can save a lot of time even though it costs more than other transportation options. Suitable for those of you who want to spend more time in East Nusa Tenggara.
If you come from Kuala Lumpur, you can fly straight to Komodo. There is no need to transit to Bali first, as there is a direct flight.
2. Komodo Airport – Labuan Bajo Port
After landing, you can go straight to Labuan Bajo Port. Because there is still no airport in Padar, you can continue your journey by boat. The distance from the airport to the port is only 3 km. You can walk or take a taxi to get there. Then, you can either rent a boat or join a one-day trip.
3. Labuan Bajo Port – Padar Island
To rent a boat, you need to budget around IDR 3 million – IDR 4 million per boat. This option is suitable for those who went on a trip in a group. You can also share the cost with other tourists you meet and go to the destination together.
If you’re alone, choosing a one-day trip is best. It usually costs around IDR 750.000 – IDR 1,2 million. Some even include an airport shuttle service, so you don’t have to find a taxi to go to the port. Aside from that, you will also visit nearby islands.
Boat Trip
If you want to savor the moment, consider a boat trip. However, there’s still no direct sailing from Bali to Padar. That’s why you need to transit to Labuan Bajo Port first.
1. Benoa Port – Labuan Bajo Port
The Benoa Port is your starting point from Bali. You can book a Pelni Ferry. The cost is around IDR 283,000 (USD 17,46), cheaper than a plane trip. During the sail, you will get three free meals. It’s worth it if you want to enjoy the sea longer.
However, the travel time is longer. You can reach your destination after 1 day and 9 hours. The ferry’s schedule is also rarer than a plane. You can’t sail every day because the ferry is only available every 3 or 6 days.
2. Labuan Bajo Port – Padar Island
The advantage of a boat trip is that you can go straight to Padar from the port. The method is the same: joining a trip or renting a boat. Depending on the type of ship, the travel time is around 1-3 hours.
Road Trip
Because the two islands are separated by water, a road trip straight from Bali to Padar is impossible. But, you still can go to Labuan Bajo by renting a car or taking a bus.
However, there’s also no bus that can take you straight to Labuan Bajo. So, you should take a longer route and transit in more regions. It’s suitable for those of you who want adventure and to see the local life more closely.
1. Denpasar – Bima
First, you must take a bus from Denpasar to Bima. Depending on the bus operator, it costs between IDR 400.000 and IDR 475.000. The trip takes 16 – 18 hours, depending on road conditions and rest length. The bus operators usually offer free meals during the trip.
2. Sape Port – Labuan Bajo Port
Buses from Bima to Labuan Bajo are rare. That’s why you need to continue your journey by using a boat. You can take KMP Cakalang or KMP Sangke Palangga.
If you bring a car, the ticket price is around IDR 84,000 (USD 5,19) or IDR 1.375,000 (USD 84,85). The trip takes 7-8 hours.
3. Labuan Bajo Port – Padar Island
Lastly, you can rent a boat or take a one-day trip to your destination.
Helpful Tips
Here’s some tips for you!
- Adjust the options according to your needs.
- You can stay at a hotel or homestay on Flores Island and go to Padar early in the morning to witness the sunrise.
- Another alternative is to go to Padar in the afternoon to witness the sunset. You can stay at a hotel or homestay in Flores after hiking.
- If it’s your first time going to Padar, join a trip so you won’t get lost. Besides a day trip, there’s a 3D1N or 2D1N trip from Bali.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to visit Padar Island is during the dry season, from April to October. So, the scenery won’t get disturbed by rain and fog. The trail is also easier to manage because it’s drier. You can hike to the summit easier and savor the scenery better than during the rainy season. You can plan your trip more easily after knowing how to get to Padar Island from Bali. If you want something fast and practical, choose a plane trip. If you’re going to savor the moment, choose a boat trip. However, choose a road trip if you want to see the local’s life more closely.
