Is there a direct bus from Bali to Sumbawa?

Yes, there are bus companies that offer through-tickets including ferry costs.

How do I get to Moyo Island?

Hire a boat from the harbor in Sumbawa Besar.

Is Sumbawa safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is safe, but exercise normal caution.

What is the best way to travel around Sumbawa?

Renting a motorbike or hiring a car with a driver is best.

Are there many ATMs in Sumbawa Besar?

Yes, the city has several ATMs, but they are scarce in rural areas.

Kuta Selatan

Sumbawa

Bus Flight

Kuta Selatan to Sumbawa

Updated: 28 May 2026

Sumbawa Besar is the main gateway to the western part of Sumbawa island. To get there from Kuta Selatan, you must take a bus to Padang Bai, cross to Lembar (Lombok), drive across Lombok to Kayangan, and take a ferry to Poto Tano (Sumbawa). From Poto Tano, it is a 3-hour drive to Sumbawa Besar. This route is popular with surfers heading to the famous waves of West Sumbawa. The journey is long but offers a unique look at the transition between the cultures of Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa.

Total Distance: Driving distance 450 km (including ferries); straight-line air distance 280 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Ngurah Rai Airport to Sumbawa Besar (SWQ).

Cheapest Way

Public bus from Ubung Terminal in Denpasar.

Compare Kuta Selatan to Sumbawa Routes

	Bus Connecting	Flight Connecting via Lombok
Duration	16 hours	3 hours
Avg Price	IDR 350,000 - 500,000	IDR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000
Operator	Tiara Mas	Wings Air
Route	Denpasar to Sumbawa Besar	DPS to SWQ
Tip	Book a seat in the front for better views and less motion sickness.	Flights land at Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport.

Travel Tips

Ferry Crossing
The ferry from Kayangan to Poto Tano takes about 90 minutes; stay on the deck for great views.
Bus Comfort
Bring a neck pillow and earplugs for the long bus ride.
Local Food
Try 'Sepat', a traditional Sumbawa fish soup, at local restaurants.
Language
Sumbawa has its own language, but Indonesian is widely understood.
Cash
Carry enough cash as card payments are rare outside of hotels.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Be cautious of livestock crossing the roads in rural Sumbawa.
Sun Exposure
The heat in Sumbawa is intense; stay hydrated.
Travel Insurance
Ensure your insurance covers remote travel and medical evacuation.
Night Travel
Avoid driving at night due to limited road lighting.