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How to get from Bali to Sumba: flights, ferries and airports
Flights from Bali to Tambolaka (TMC) and Waingapu (WGP), which airport to choose, baggage limits, ferries and how to get from the airport to your hotel.
Sumba is close to Bali but there is no bridge, no fast boat and only a few flights a day, so getting there takes a little planning.
The two airports
- Tambolaka (TMC), in Southwest Sumba near the town of Tambolaka. Best for Kodi, Weekuri Lagoon, the west and most resorts in the south-west and west.
- Waingapu (WGP), officially Umbu Mehang Kunda, next to the town of Waingapu. Best for the savanna, waterfalls and weaving villages of the east.
The drive between them takes most of a day, so the classic plan is an "open jaw" trip: fly into one and out of the other.
Flights from Bali
Several Indonesian carriers fly between Denpasar (DPS) and Sumba, mostly on small turboprop planes. The flight takes about an hour. Schedules change often, so check current timetables and book early around Indonesian holidays and in July and August.
- Baggage: allowances on these planes can be small, often around 10 to 20 kg. Pay for extra in advance, especially for surfboards.
- Connections: leave plenty of time if you connect to an international flight in Bali; delays and schedule changes happen.
- From other cities: there are also flights from Kupang and some from Jakarta and Surabaya, depending on the season.
By sea
Slow ferries and passenger ships link Waingapu and the port of Waikelo near Tambolaka with Sumbawa, Flores and Timor. Going by sea from Bali means crossing Lombok and Sumbawa first and takes several days. It suits slow travellers with time; timetables are irregular and can change with the weather.
From the airport to your accommodation
There are few taxis at either airport. Most travellers arrange a pickup with their accommodation or with the driver they will hire for the trip. In Tambolaka and Waingapu ojek (motorbike taxis) wait outside.
Entry rules
Sumba is part of Indonesia, so you arrive on your Indonesian visa from Bali. Bali's tourist levy applies only to Bali. Always check the latest rules on the official Indonesian immigration website.
Next steps
Choose your route with our 5-day itinerary and read getting around Sumba.
FAQ
How long is the flight from Bali to Sumba?
About an hour from Denpasar to Tambolaka or Waingapu.
Which airport should I fly into, Tambolaka or Waingapu?
Tambolaka (TMC) for the west and south-west, Waingapu (WGP) for the east. If you have five days or more, fly into one and out of the other.
Is there a ferry from Bali to Sumba?
Not a direct fast boat. Slow ferries link Sumba with Sumbawa, Flores and Timor, so going by sea from Bali means several days of island hopping.
Do I need a visa for Sumba?
Sumba is part of Indonesia, so the same entry rules apply as for Bali. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa; check the official Indonesian immigration website before you travel.
Guides
25 best things to do in Sumba
From Weekuri Lagoon to the Pasola, the dancing trees of Walakiri and the megalithic tombs of Anakalang: the best experiences on Sumba island, with a map.
Where to stay in Sumba: the best areas for every trip
Which area of Sumba to stay in: Tambolaka and Kodi, Waikabubak and the south-west coast, Central Sumba and Waingapu in the east, and how to split your nights.
Ferry to Sumba: routes from Flores, Sumbawa, Bali and Timor
How to reach Sumba by boat: Pelni and ASDP routes to Waingapu and Waikelo, typical crossing times, what the ships are like and how to check schedules.
Hiring a driver in Sumba: how it works and what to agree
How to hire a car with driver in Sumba: where to find one, what is usually included, questions to ask, scooter vs car, and tips for a smooth trip.
Places to visit in Sumba: all 41 spots by region
Every place worth visiting in Sumba, grouped by region with a one-line description, map links and distances: beaches, waterfalls, villages, hills and culture.
Sumba or Bali? An honest comparison
Crowds, flights, healthcare, culture and nature: where each island wins.