GETTING TO
Rote
Off the beaten track, no direct flights from international airports, and that’s good. it keeps Rote paradise uncrowded and unspoilt.
Fly and boat
If you’re seeking a hidden gem in Indonesia with pristine beaches, untouched landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere, look no further than Rote Island. Located in the southern part of the country, Rote is a paradise waiting to be explored. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the various transportation options available to help you reach this enchanting destination.
- Fly to Kupang:
The most convenient way to reach Rote is by air. Start by booking a flight to El Tari International Airport (KOE) in Kupang, the capital city of East Nusa Tenggara province. Several airlines offer regular flights to Kupang from major cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and Makassar. From Kupang, you have several options to continue your journey to Rote.
- Ferries to Rote from Kupang:
Once you arrive in Kupang, there are two daily ferries travelling between Kupang and Rote. One is the Express Bahari from Tenau Port to Ba’a Port in Rote. This is a 2.5 hour journey (Express Bahari has an app by the way). They have a ‘VIP’ section (which are seats in an inside cabin with a toilet – but don’t expect luxury) or the regular seats. Both are comparatively cheap. There is also the slow ferry (ASDP Indonesia Ferry) leaving from Bolok Port, which is a 5 hour journey. Both ferries depart daily from Kupang to Rote. The schedules can be affected by wind and waves, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before your trip. Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ports, and it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Fly to Rote from Kupang
Two airlines operate a short flight of 30 minutes from Kupang to Rote (airport code RTI). One is WingsAir (owned by Lionair), which operates a flight in the late afternoon (usually at 15:35). You need to book your tickets on Lionair.com. The other is SusiAir which operates a morning flight around 7am. Wingsair has a daily schedule, but SusiAir only operates on Mon, Wed and Friday. You can contact SusiAir ticket sales (for Kupang to Rote) via Whatsapp on +62 811 2021 3235, or for flights from Rote to Kupang it’s +62 811 2001 1917. Note that the SusiAir flight is a small prop plane and you cannot take surfboards on that flight. You are only allowed 10kg of hand luggage and excess baggage is quite expensive. We send our bags and boards with a taxi driver to the fast ferry and then travel on SusiAir. Lionair can carry surfboards, but only to a certain length. Check their website for the latest details.
Public Transportation within Rote:
Once you arrive in Rote, you’ll find various modes of public transportation available to explore the island. The most common mode of transportation is the motorbike taxis called “Ojeks.” Ojeks are an affordable and convenient way to navigate around the island, especially for short distances. Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter or a bicycle to explore Rote at your own pace.
If you are staying at Wavehaven, we will help you set up your airport transfers to and from Rote to Wavehaven. We may even be able to help you set up bag/board collection for the fast ferry.
Remote & stunning
Rote Island, also known as Pulau Rote, is located in the southernmost part of Indonesia. It is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province, which comprises a chain of islands stretching from the eastern end of Bali towards the eastern tip of Timor Island. Rote Island itself is situated approximately 500 kilometers north of Australia and 170 kilometers southwest of Timor-Leste.
Geographically, Rote Island is positioned between the Savu Sea to the north and the Timor Sea to the south. It spans an area of about 1,200 square kilometers and has a population of around 130,000 people. The island is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Rote Island is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a volcanic archipelago that includes well-known destinations such as Bali, Lombok, and Flores. It shares similar geographical features with these neighboring islands, including rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and volcanic terrain. Mount Patah, an inactive volcano, is one of the notable landmarks on Rote Island.
The island is divided into several districts, with the capital town being Ba’a. The main areas of interest for tourists are Nemberala, T-Land, and Bo’a, which are known for their beautiful beaches and world-class surf breaks. These areas offer a tranquil escape with their untouched beauty and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Rote Island enjoys a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season usually extends from May to November, usually characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The wet season, on the other hand, falls between December and early April, bringing rain showers, higher temperatures and humidity.
Due to its remote location, Rote Island has managed to maintain its natural charm and cultural authenticity. The local population primarily consists of the Rotenese people, who have a distinct cultural heritage and traditions. Traditional practices such as weaving, traditional ceremonies, and the use of traditional musical instruments are still prevalent on the island.
Whether you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, a relaxing beach vacation, or an exciting surfing experience, Rote Island offers a unique and enchanting destination. Its secluded location and unspoiled beauty make it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature and culture.