Sabang Airport

Sabang Airport Transfers

Sabang Airport Maimun Saleh Airport (SBG) is about 6km from the centre of Sabang. Arranging a hotel pickup is usually the most reliable way to travel.

A row of white passenger vans parked on a dirt lot in front of a rustic roadside souvenir shop and cafeteria.
Minibuses and vans are one way to navigate the hilly terrain of Pulau Weh © shankar s.

Transport Options from Maimun Saleh Airport

If you are flying into Sabang Airport Maimun Saleh Airport (SBG), you will find a small, quiet terminal. There are no public buses, metered taxi stands, or ride-hailing apps.

Resort/Hotel Pickup (The Best Option)

Since the airport is small and taxis are informal, having a driver waiting for you is by far the smoothest option. Most reputable resorts in Iboih or Sumur Tiga can arrange this.

  • Cost: Usually between IDR 150,000-250,000 (£8–£13) per car, depending on the distance.
  • How to arrange: Email or WhatsApp your hotel 2-3 days in advance.

Airport “Taxi” (Private Car Charter)

These are private cars (usually Toyota Avanzas or Innovas) operated by locals. They act as taxis but look like regular family cars.

  • Availability: There is usually a handful of drivers waiting when a scheduled flight lands. If none are there, airport staff can call one, but you may have to wait 15-20 minutes.
  • Cost: Fixed price (negotiable).
    • To Sabang City Center: ~IDR 100,000-150,000.
    • To Sumur Tiga (Beaches): ~IDR 150,000.
    • To Iboih / Gapang (Diving/Snorkeling): ~IDR 200,000-250,000.
  • Tip: Agree on the price before putting your bags in the car. Prices are per car, not per person.

Becak (Motorbike Sidecar)

For solo travelers with light luggage (backpacks only), you can take a *Becak* (motorbike with a side passenger carriage).

  • Cost: Roughly half the price of a car (~IDR 50,000-80,000).
  • Comfort: Low. It is slow, bumpy, and open-air, but very scenic.

Distances & Travel Times from SBG Airport

Pulau Weh is hilly and roads are winding. Distance is short, but travel time can be longer than expected.

Destination Distance Time (Car) Description
Sabang City Center 6 km 10–15 mins Main town, ATMs, markets, colonial buildings.
Sumur Tiga 8 km 15–20 mins Beautiful white sand beaches, popular resorts (Freddies, Casa Nemo).
Iboih / Gapang 22 km 30–40 mins The main hub for diving and snorkeling (Rubiah Island). Hilly drive.
Balohan Port 10 km 20 mins The ferry terminal for boats to Banda Aceh.

Summary Checklist for 2026

  • Cash is King: Bring Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) cash. Drivers will not accept credit cards.
  • No Grab/Gojek: Do not rely on apps; they are blocked or unavailable on the island to protect local drivers.
  • Verify Arrival: Triple-check if you are landing at SBG (Airport) or Balohan (Ferry Port). If you are arriving by ferry, you will find many more drivers (minibuses and taxis) fighting for your business at the port exit.
  • WhatsApp: Install WhatsApp; it is how every driver and hotel in Indonesia communicates.