The hustle and bustle of Jakarta can feel draining at times. It expects you to continuously move fast for fear of being unable to keep up. If you keep stretching yourself thin, burnout can make itself known.
Giving yourself time to unwind is key to regaining your spirits and passion. Think of it as a self-reward—go explore some wondrous nature and sign up for relaxing activities as a treat for yourself.
Sumba has all of those waiting for you. The clear blue sea, green forest, and vast savanna will spoil you when you decide to pay this island a visit.
Here is how to get to Sumba Island from Jakarta, complete with the pros and cons of each mode of transportation.
Read Also: Top 10 Reasons Why Visiting Sumba is Worth It
How to Get to Sumba Island from Jakarta?
Before creating your itinerary, it’s best to decide on which mode of transportation suits you best. This way, you can find one that fits your budget and time constraint.
Two ways you can get to Sumba island from Jakarta are by plane or boat. Here are some things to consider before planning out your trip:
Read Also: Romantic Paradise: 3-Day Sumba Itinerary for Sunset Lovers
1. Using Plane
You can get to Sumba by plane, though there are no direct flights from Jakarta. You’ll have to take transit flights that stop by Denpasar (Bali) or Kupang (East Nusa Tenggara) with an estimated time of arrival of 3 hours 45 minutes including each transit.
Make sure to choose the right airport because Sumba has two airports: Waikabubak Airport in Tambolaka (West Sumba) and Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport in Waingapu (East Sumba). Ensure is the one closest to your travel destination for efficiency’s sake.
Flights from Jakarta to Sumba range from Rp1,500,000–2,000,000 depending on the airline. Here is a list of airlines that provide flights from Denpasar–Sumba or Kupang–Sumba:
- Sriwijaya Air
- Nam Air
- Lion Air
- Wings Air
- Garuda Indonesia
2. Using Boat
Another transport alternative you can consider is by taking a boat to Sumba. Though there is no direct route from Jakarta to Sumba, you can first travel to Surabaya or Labuan Bajo to catch the boat.
Pelni provides a route from Tanjung Perak Harbor in Surabaya to Waingapu Harbor in East Sumba with an estimated price of Rp400,000.
Or, if you prefer a cheaper boat ride, you can go on the Wilis Boat from Labuan Bajo to Sumba by paying an estimated price of Rp120,000.
Read Also: 7 Gorgeous Places for Sightseeing in Sumba, Indonesia
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Plane
Source: Pixabay via Pexels
Now that you know the options, it’s time to decide on one. Aside from the duration of the trip, there are other things to consider before ever picking your mode of transportation.
To help you make the best decision, here are some advantages and disadvantages of taking a plane for your travels:
1. Advantages of Using Plane
- You can get to your destination faster and more time-efficient.
- You’ll travel with comfort in mind, availing for wider seats and more legroom.
- You’ll get to relax on the way to your destination. You can find entertainment such as movies and music or simply ask for a blanket to sleep in.
2. Disadvantages of Using Plane
- The price is relatively more expensive, so you’ll definitely need a bigger budget.
- Some airlines charge more for your baggage, so you may need to allocate more fund. Be sure to check the baggage policy before you travel to avoid any surprises.
- Planes are one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. If you’re actively trying to reduce your carbon footprint, you might want to consider this environmental impact.
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Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Boat
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Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of traveling by plane, here’s how they would look like in boats:
1. Advantages of Using Boat
- You can carry more luggage with no extra charge. You can even move your car from one harbor to another depending on the type of boat you choose. Just be sure to check if your boat has any transport limit.
- Amazing scenery awaits. Feel a sense of peace in the sound of the waves or simply take in the amazing view of the blue water and clear sky!
- Boats are relatively more environmentally friendly compared to cars or planes.
2. Disadvantages of Using Boat
- It’s a slower mode of transport, suitable for those looking for more leisure travel.
- Beware of seasickness especially if you’re traveling long distance through a rough sea.
- Weather can stir up some trouble, delaying your trip or worsening your experience onboard.
Read Also: Before You Visit: A Crash Course on Sumbanese Culture
Where To Go?
There are plenty of activities to explore in Sumba, whether you’re on the west or east side of the island, ranging from the enchanting tropical beaches to distinctive villages scattered across the region. Here are some recommended experiences for your visit to Sumba.
1. Explore The Beaches
Sumba boasts stunning white beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water, resembling scenes from a catalog. Frequently, you may find yourself as the sole tourist in these attractive locations. However, the drawback is the scarcity of tourists, leading to a limited presence of restaurants. Perhaps, in the more frequented beaches such as Walakiri Beach, you might come across a warung offering coconuts and local snacks.
2. Explore The Waterfalls
The waterfalls in Sumba are truly remarkable! They exude a natural and pristine beauty. Typically, to reach these waterfalls, you need to drive and traverse through the savanna. Upon arrival, the experience feels like entering a different realm. You have the opportunity to jump into the water and swim, providing a truly refreshing experience!
3. Explore The Villages
In Sumba, numerous traditional villages can be discovered, each comprised of traditional houses. At the center of these villages lie ancient megalithic graves intended for the nobility, adorned with intricately carved symbols rich in symbolic meanings.
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Written by: Sheila Lalita
Header image by: Febiyan via Unsplash
