How to Travel from Bukit Lawang to Weh Island
Weh Island, located off the northern tip of Sumatra, is a hidden gem known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. If you’re in Bukit Lawang, a famous eco-tourism destination, and want to extend your adventure to Weh Island, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get there.
Step 1: Travel to Medan
Your first step is to leave Bukit Lawang and reach Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra. You can do this by hiring a private car or taking a minibus. The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Private cars offer comfort, while minibuses are more budget-friendly.
Step 2: From Medan to Banda Aceh
Once in Medan, your next destination is Banda Aceh. You have two main choices: by air or by land. Flying is the quickest option, with several daily flights available from Medan’s Kualanamu Airport to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Banda Aceh. The flight takes about 1 hour. For those who prefer overland travel, there are buses that can take you from Medan to Banda Aceh, though the trip spans approximately 12-14 hours.
Step 3: Ferry to Weh Island
Upon arrival in Banda Aceh, you need to get to Ulee Lheue Port to catch a ferry to Weh Island. Speedboats and regular ferries operate daily, with speedboats taking around 45 minutes and regular ferries about 2 hours. It is advisable to check the schedules in advance to avoid waiting times.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bukit Lawang to Weh Island requires a mix of different transportation modes, but the journey is fairly straightforward when planned well. Starting with a trip to Medan, followed by a flight or bus to Banda Aceh, and finishing with a ferry ride, you can find yourself on the serene Weh Island, ready to enjoy its natural beauty. Safe travels!
