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Labuan Bajo doesn't have public buses running around town, and taxis don't cruise the streets looking for passengers. So how do you get from your hotel to the viewpoints, the caves and the beach? Here's an honest look at your options.
Option 1: Rent a scooter
Cost: from IDR 90,000 a day Best for: solo travellers and couples who are licensed and confident riders
A scooter gives you total freedom. You can chase the sunset, stop for coffee wherever you like and change plans on a whim. Parking is easy and fuel is cheap.
Pros: cheapest option for most trips, flexible, fun. Cons: you need a motorcycle licence and IDP, it's hot in the midday sun, and it's not ideal in heavy rain or with big luggage.
With Transbajo, the scooter is delivered to the airport or your hotel. Start with our complete scooter rental guide.
Option 2: Car with driver
Best for: families, groups, travellers without a motorcycle licence, longer trips
A car with a local driver is comfortable, air-conditioned and stress-free. Your driver knows the roads, the timings and the best places to stop. For trips to Ruteng, Wae Rebo or across Flores it's the relaxed choice.
Our sister service, Labuan Bajo car rental, offers cars from Avanza to Alphard, self-drive or with driver.
Option 3: Ojek (motorbike taxi)
Best for: short trips within town
An ojek is a motorbike taxi — you ride on the back. You'll find drivers waiting at junctions and near the harbour. Agree the price before you get on. Some ride-hailing apps also offer motorbike rides in Labuan Bajo, but availability is patchy, especially out of town and late at night.
Pros: cheap for short distances, no licence needed. Cons: negotiating prices, harder to find for return trips from viewpoints, passenger helmets aren't always offered.
Want a scooter for this ride?
Scoopy, NMAX, PCX, ADV and more from IDR 90,000/day — two clean helmets, a raincoat and free delivery to Komodo Airport or your hotel.
Option 4: Taxi
Best for: airport transfers with luggage, nights out
There are some taxis and private drivers in Labuan Bajo, mostly arranged by phone or through your hotel. They're convenient for the airport with luggage, but costs add up quickly if you're going to several places in one day — and finding a ride back from Sylvia Hill after sunset can be a challenge.
Option 5: Walking
The town centre along the harbour is walkable for restaurants, cafés and the night market. But Labuan Bajo is steep, it's hot, and many hotels are spread out along the coast. Walking works for evenings in town, not for sightseeing.
Quick comparison
| Option | Typical cost | Flexibility | Licence needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scooter rental | From IDR 90,000 per day | ★★★★★ | Yes (motorcycle + IDP) |
| Car with driver | Per day, quoted by route | ★★★★ | No |
| Ojek | Per ride, negotiated | ★★★ | No |
| Taxi | Per ride | ★★ | No |
| Walking | Free | ★ | No |
Our recommendation
- Two people, a few free days, both comfortable riding? Rent a scooter.
- Family with kids or a group? Book a car with driver.
- Just need a ride to dinner? Walk or take an ojek.
- Arriving with big suitcases? Taxi or car to the hotel, then have your scooter delivered there.
Getting around questions
What is the best way to get around Labuan Bajo?
For independent travellers who can ride, a rented scooter is the cheapest and most flexible. Families and groups are more comfortable in a car with driver.
Is there Grab or Gojek in Labuan Bajo?
Ride-hailing availability in Labuan Bajo is limited and changes often. Don't rely on it, especially for trips out of town or late at night.
Can I walk around Labuan Bajo?
The town centre is walkable, but it's hilly and hot, and most sights are a few kilometres away.
Is a scooter or a car better for Labuan Bajo?
A scooter is cheaper and easier to park for one or two people. A car with driver is better for families, groups, luggage or long trips.
Want a scooter for this ride?
Scoopy, NMAX, PCX, ADV and more from IDR 90,000/day — two clean helmets, a raincoat and free delivery to Komodo Airport or your hotel.