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Getting Around Wakatobi, Indonesia

Globetrotter

19 May 2023 - 4 min read

Wakatobi is a piece of paradise on Earth in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. It consists of dozens of small islands that create an archipelago, offering stunning scenery of beaches and ocean views.

Although the primary mode of transportation is by boat, there are several ways to explore and get to Wakatobi.

Read more: Getting Around Sumba, Indonesia

Where to Go in Wakatobi?

Wakatobi is a group of islands located in Indonesia, and it is known for its stunning ocean views and underwater scenery. Before visiting Wakatobi, it is important to learn about the different islands that make up the region of Wakatobi.

Wangi or Wanci Island

Wanci Island is the main island of Wakatobi and serves as the starting point for exploring other areas in the region. Here, you can enjoy the stunning ocean views and coral and explore the island's waterfalls. There are also a variety of hotels and resorts available in Wakatobi.

Binongko Island

If you want to explore more underwater sports activities in Wakatobi, Binongko Island is the perfect place for surfing or diving. This island offers stunning coral reefs and a peaceful environment.

Tomia Island

Tomia Island is known as one of the best places in the world to find beautiful coral reefs. It's no wonder that tourists worldwide flock to Tomia Island to see its underwater beauty. In addition to surfing and diving, you can also explore Tomia by hiking to the savannah on the island.

Kaledupa Island

Kaledupa Island is home to various unique corals, attracting many professionals who come to the island to see the beauty of coral reefs. You can also visit Wakatobi National Park to learn more about the endangered species that still live there.

Hoga Island

Hoga Island is the perfect place for snorkeling and enjoying the underwater view of Wakatobi. Explore hundreds of aquatic species while you're there.

Kapota Island

The natural beauty of this small island in Wakatobi is charming. Its white sand beach is perfect for relaxing and clearing your mind.

Transportation to Wakatobi

You can reach Wakatobi by air or sea transportation. This guide explains how to travel to Wakatobi.

Airplane

Information: The easiest way to reach Wakatobi is by airplane. You will arrive at Matahora Airport, located on Wanci Island. The flight schedule is available on specific days, which include Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Route: The shortest flight duration to Wakatobi is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can take a flight from Makassar and transit to Kendari before arriving at Wakatobi. However, there is only one flight per day from Makassar to Wakatobi.

Fares: The cost of a flight ticket to Wakatobi can vary, but if you are departing from Makassar, it usually starts at IDR 500,000.

Tips: To get the best deal on flights to Wakatobi, book your Makassar-Wakatobi flight at least a week in advance due to the limited availability of flights.

Ship

Information: The main entry point to Wakatobi is on Wanci Island, home to the airport. If you prefer sea travel, you can catch a ship departing from Kendari Port or Bau-bau Port.

Tips: Please arrive at the port at least an hour before your ship's departure, and the ship does not have a set departure time.

Route & Fares: Here are the routes, schedules, and ticket prices for ships to Wakatobi.

Types of ships	Route	Schedule	Departure Date	Rates
Regular Ship	From Bau-bau to Wanci	Every night	09:00 pm	IDR 120,000
Express Ship	From Wanci to Bau-bau	Once every two days	10:00 am	IDR 150,000
Regular Ship	From Kendari to Wanci	Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday	10:00 am	IDR 180,000
Regular Ship	From Wanci to Kendari	Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday	10:00 am	IDR 180,000

Transportations to Explore Wakatobi

In Wakatobi, public transportation is not available for exploring the area. However, you can rent a motorcycle or boat to experience the beauty of this place entirely.

Wooden Boat

Information, route, and fares: Wooden boats are a common mode of transportation for exploring and traveling between islands in the Wakatobi region. You can only use a boat to move around the large islands of Wakatobi. Therefore, before using a wooden boat, know the route and destination you want to visit beforehand.

Route	Departure Date	Rates
From Mola pier of Wangi-wangi Island to Kaledupa Island	Daily at 08.00 am	IDR 55,000
From Jabal Rahman pier Wangi-wangi Island to Tomia Island	Daily at 10.00 am	IDR 50,000
From Wangi-wangi Island to Binongko Island via Tomia Island	Daily at 10.00 am	IDR 55,000
From Wangi-wangi Island to Binongko Island	Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10.00 am	IDR 70,000

Speed Boat

Information and fares: To explore the area around Wakatobi, you can rent a speedboat on a per-day basis. Typically, renting a speedboat costs around IDR 300,000 to explore an island.

Tips: Rent a speedboat directly from the owner to get lower prices.

Motorcycle Taxi (Ojek)

Information and fares: Motorcycle taxis, also known as Ojek in Indonesia, are a popular mode of transportation in Wakatobi. They can take you to even the most remote areas. The cost of using an Ojek for a ride may vary depending on the route and distance, but it usually starts at IDR 20,000.

Tips: Ask the driver for the price to reach your desired destination.

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