Rote Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving. The island is also famous for its traditional ikat weaving, which has been passed down through generations. Visitors can explore the villages and witness the intricate weaving process, as well as purchase handmade textiles as souvenirs. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Rote Island also offers opportunities for trekking and surfing. The island has a laid-back atmosphere, with friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes such as corn soup and cassava leaves cooked in coconut milk. Overall, Rote Island is a hidden gem in Indonesia, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.
There are few cheap accommodations if you like to stay in Rote located in Ba’a. After you left Ba’a towards Nerembula
” Rote Island is where nature and culture dance together to the beauty. “
In recent years, tourism has been on the rise on Rote Island, with new resorts and accommodations being built to cater to the increasing number of visitors. However, efforts are being made to ensure that development is sustainable and respectful of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Rote Island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Rote boobook owl and the Rote leaf warbler.
How to get there
To get to Rote Island, you can fly to the nearest airport, El Tari Airport (KOE), located in Kupang, the capital city of East Nusa Tenggara province. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Rote Island’s sole airport, Lekunik Airport (RTI), which is located in the town of Ba’a on Rote Island. It’s recommended to book your flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as flight availability may be limited. Once you arrive at Lekunik Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for transportation to your accommodation on Rote Island. Some hotels and resorts may offer airport transfers for their guests, so it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation provider in advance. Alternatively, if you prefer to travel by sea, there are ferry services that operate between Kupang and Rote Island. The ferry journey takes longer than flying, usually around 1.30-2 hours, but it can be a more budget-friendly option for travellers. Ferry schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check for the latest information on departure times and ticket prices. Overall, travelling to Rote Island is relatively straightforward, whether you choose to fly or take a ferry. Once you arrive, you can enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer, from its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage.
There are two options to go to Rote. One is from Ende, and the second is from Kupang. As I was travelling from Melbourne to Denpasar Bali, below is the list of transport that you can take from Kupang to Rote.
Price around $120 fly only on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7.30am. Susie Air offers flights for around $120, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:30 am. I booked the flight 2 days prior as it’s not on my plan for this trip. I went to El Tari Airport Kupang and found the Susie Air counter in there. With a small aircraft that can accommodate up to 12 passengers, it provides a more intimate and potentially scenic flight experience. Flying with Susi Air to Rote Island can offer a convenient and efficient way to reach the island, allowing you to start your adventure and exploration sooner. Enjoy your journey to Rote Island and have a fantastic time discovering the beauty and charm of this Indonesian destination.
Board from Tenau. The price range is around $100-$202 I bought the VIP seat. They sail 6 days a week with a once-a-day sail.
If you are looking for an alternative to flights, or if you prefer to travel by sea, taking the Bahari Express Fast Ferry can be a great option. This can be particularly useful on days when flights are unavailable, or if you are seeking a budget-friendly mode of transportation.
To book your ferry ticket with Bahari Express, you can use their mobile app, ‘Express Bahari Mobile’, which allows you to easily check schedules, book tickets, and manage your journey preferences. The departure time for the ferry from Kupang to Rote is at 9:00 am, with arrival in 1 hour and 30 minutes. providing a convenient morning departure for travellers.
Staying at a hotel like Sotis in Kupangbefore flying to Rote or after gives a better time organiser’s phone number is +62 380 843 8000 direct from their website http://www.sotishotel.com can offer a comfortable and scenic accommodation experience, with ocean views from the balcony adding to the charm of your stay. The relaxing atmosphere and amenities provided by the hotel can help you unwind and prepare for the next leg of your journey to Rote Island.
Additionally, staying at On the Rock – phone +62 380 8586 100 or book online http://www.hotelontherock.goestreservations.com in Kupang on your way back before catching your flight back to Bali can provide a peaceful and convenient accommodation option. The proximity to the airport and the quality of service at the hotel can make your departure from Kupang a smooth and pleasant experience.
Choosing well-reviewed hotels like Sotis and On the Rock can enhance your overall travel experience, providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay during your time in Kupang. It’s always beneficial to book your accommodations in advance to secure your preferred room and amenities.
Whether you are exploring Kupang or using it as a layover destination on your way to or from Rote Island, staying at these recommended hotels can help you make the most of your time in the area. Enjoy your stay and safe travels on your journey to Rote Island and back to Bali.
Somethings to remember
Few resorts on the island of Rote. When you book the accommodation make sure you also order your breakfast, lunch and dinner otherwise all the price for the accommodation ONLY.
There aren’t cafes/restaurants surrounding Nembrala after you do your surf and there is no food to eat when you are hungry unless you have a car or motorbike to get your food because there isn’t public transportation either.
Do not drink the water from the tap.
Nembrala is a good surf area in the south of Rote. The people of Rote are aware that cleanliness and environment are commendable and play a crucial role in maintaining the island’s beauty and sustainability for current and future generations to enjoy. Please respect the place and the people.
Hope you enjoy your stay in Pulau Rote/Rote Island.
Exploring The Unknown with Me 
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