Is Bima safe for tourists?

Yes, Bima is generally safe, but standard travel precautions should be taken.

How do I get from Bima airport to the city?

You can take a taxi or a local 'angkot' from the airport to the city center.

Are there hotels in Bima?

Yes, there are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses available in Bima city.

What is the best time to visit Mount Tambora?

The best time is during the dry season, from May to August.

Can I rent a car in Bima?

Car rentals are limited; it is better to hire a driver for day trips.

Magelang

Bima

Bus Flight

Magelang to Bima

Updated: 28 May 2026

Reaching Bima from Magelang involves crossing the entire length of Sumbawa island. You can choose between a multi-day bus journey or a flight from Yogyakarta to Bima's Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin Airport. The land route requires navigating the Trans-Sumbawa Highway, which is known for its scenic but winding mountain passes. This journey is best suited for those who enjoy long-distance road travel or need to transport goods.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,150 km, straight-line air distance 850 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Yogyakarta to Bima via Bali is the fastest way to reach the destination.

Cheapest Way

The bus is the most economical option, though it requires significant physical stamina.

Compare Magelang to Bima Routes

	Bus Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	36 hours	5 hours
Avg Price	1,200,000 IDR	1,800,000 - 2,500,000 IDR
Operator	PO Rasa Sayang	Wings Air
Route	Magelang - Surabaya - Ketapang - Lembar - Poto Tano - Bima.	Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) - Denpasar (DPS) - Bima (BMU).
Tip	Prepare for a very long journey; bring neck pillows and snacks.	Book your flight in advance as connections through Bali are popular.

Travel Tips

Booking Flights
Use local travel apps to compare flight prices between different airlines for the Bali-Bima leg.
Bus Comfort
Choose executive class buses for better legroom and reclining seats on the long journey.
Local Transport
Use 'ojek' (motorcycle taxis) for quick travel within Bima city.
Language
Learn basic Indonesian phrases as English is not widely spoken in rural Sumbawa.
Connectivity
Telkomsel provides the most reliable mobile signal in the remote areas of Sumbawa.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
If traveling by bus, avoid sitting in the front row if you are nervous about mountain road driving.
Valuables
Keep your passport and money in a hidden money belt during the bus journey.
Health
Carry rehydration salts in case of food poisoning from roadside stalls.
Night Travel
Avoid traveling on remote mountain roads in Sumbawa after dark due to poor lighting.