Have you ever heard of Labengki? Although it’s not as popular as other tourist destinations in Eastern Indonesia, this island holds extraordinary natural beauty. Located in Southeast Sulawesi, Labengki is an archipelago offering a stunning mix of karst landscapes, crystal-clear seas, and authentic coastal life. Since it’s still under the radar for most travelers, the atmosphere remains peaceful and untouched—perfect for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
But before planning your trip, one essential question naturally comes to mind: how to get to Labengki? Given its remote location, getting there requires careful planning. This article will walk you through the best routes to reach Labengki with ease.
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Where is Labengki Located?
Labengki Island is an exotic destination located in North Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi. It’s about 70 kilometers from Kendari, the provincial capital. Although relatively far and not widely known among travelers, this is actually one of Labengki’s main appeals—its atmosphere is still pristine, serene, and far from the crowds.
Geographically, Labengki is a cluster of small islands surrounded by clear blue waters, giant coral formations, and untouched white sandy beaches. The island consists of two main parts: Big Labengki and Small Labengki. Each has unique natural features that complement each other. Big Labengki is known for its hidden beaches and towering karst cliffs, while Small Labengki is famous for Love Bay and traditional stilt villages inhabited by the Bajo tribe.
Labengki is often referred to as a “Mini Raja Ampat” due to its rock formations that resemble the iconic islands of West Papua. However, Labengki has its own unique charm that sets it apart. From its thriving marine ecosystems to the rich coastal culture, Labengki isn’t just a vacation spot—it’s a place where you can truly learn about the harmonious relationship between people and nature.
How to Get to Labengki
The most crucial part of your trip—how to get to Labengki? If it’s your first time visiting Southeast Sulawesi, don’t worry. While it’s not as simple as flying to Bali or Labuan Bajo, it’s not hard either. In fact, the effort you put in makes the destination feel even more exclusive. And the moment you lay eyes on the sparkling blue waters and picture-perfect islands, all your travel fatigue will vanish.
Step 1: Fly to Kendari City
Your first step to Labengki is flying into Kendari City, landing at Haluoleo Airport (KDI). This is the main airport in Southeast Sulawesi and the gateway for all travelers heading to Labengki. You can find direct flights to Kendari from major cities in Indonesia. For example, from Jakarta, airlines like Lion Air, Batik Air, and Citilink offer direct flights that take about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re coming from cities like Surabaya or Bali, you’ll typically have a short layover in Makassar. From Makassar itself, it’s just a one-hour flight to Kendari.
For those planning to head out immediately after landing, it’s best to book a morning flight. If your flight arrives in the afternoon or evening, consider spending the night in Kendari. It’s safer and gives you a chance to rest and recharge before the next leg of the journey, which can be long and adventurous.
Step 2: Overland Journey to the Nearest Port
After landing in Kendari, your journey continues overland to one of the ports that serve as departure points to Labengki. You have several route options depending on your preferences and comfort level. One of the most common routes is heading to Tolitoli Village in North Konawe, which takes about 3 to 4 hours by private car, rental, local travel service, or with the help of a trip operator.
But aside from Tolitoli, there are several other ports you can depart from:
- First, you can take a direct sea route from Kendari Port to Labengki without additional overland travel. The sea trip from here takes about 4 to 5 hours and is perfect if you want to dive straight into the oceanic adventure.
- Second, there’s a route to Lasolo Village, where you can hop on a wooden boat from Lasolo Pier to Labengki. This combined land-and-sea route takes around 4 hours.
- Third, you can choose the route to Sawa Village and then take a boat from the local pier. This is slightly shorter, taking about 3 hours in total.
- And the fastest option: head to Tanasa Pier in Soropia. This route only takes about 2.5 hours from Kendari to Labengki—ideal if you prefer to spend less time in transit.
During the overland journey, you’ll be treated to Southeast Sulawesi’s breathtaking landscapes. Think rolling green hills, lush trees, and glimpses of the ocean in the distance. The winding roads and occasional inclines are all part of the adventure, making your trip to Labengki even more unforgettable.
Step 3: Cross Over to Labengki by Boat
Once you reach your chosen port, it’s time for the sea crossing to Labengki. This is usually the most exciting part, where you’ll start to feel the tropical island vibes unique to Eastern Indonesia. The duration of the crossing varies depending on your departure point. From Kendari Port, it takes about 4–5 hours. From Lasolo and Sawa, around 2–3 hours, and from Tanasa, the fastest, only 1.5–2 hours.
For the sea journey, you can choose between traditional wooden boats or speedboats. If you’re a backpacker and want to keep things budget-friendly, wooden boats are a good option, though they take a bit longer. But if you value time and comfort, a speedboat is definitely the way to go as it significantly shortens travel time.
One important thing to note: these ports don’t have daily public ferries, so you need to book your boat in advance or join a travel package that arranges everything. Also, avoid crossing to Labengki in the late afternoon or evening—the waves are stronger, visibility drops, and safety should always come first.
Read more: Labengki Sombori: A Hidden Gem in Sulawesi That Feels Like Raja Ampat
Fun Things to Do in Labengki
Labengki doesn’t just offer stunning tropical views—it’s packed with exciting activities that make your trip truly memorable. The underwater scenery is a major draw for snorkeling and diving lovers. The crystal-clear water reveals colorful coral reefs and a diverse range of marine life. Some of the best spots are around Small Labengki, where the waters are still pristine and untouched.
If you’re looking for a different kind of adventure, consider trekking to the Blue Lagoon. This hidden gem lies behind karst cliffs, offering a tranquil natural pool with turquoise waters—perfect for a relaxing swim. There’s also the fascinating sandbar that appears when the tide goes out, letting you walk in the middle of the sea on a unique white sand path. You can also just chill on the beaches of Labengki. Some have pure white sand, while others have rare reddish hues. The perfect mix of adventure and serenity is what makes Labengki so special.
Travel Tips for Visiting Labengki
A trip to Labengki is definitely exciting, but since it’s still a hidden gem, you’ll need to be well-prepared. From natural conditions and transport access to limited island facilities, everything requires extra attention. Here are some key tips to keep your trip safe, comfortable, and unforgettable!
- Bring Enough Cash
Since there are no ATMs on Labengki, make sure to withdraw enough cash in Kendari before heading out. You’ll need it for snacks, snorkel gear rentals, or souvenirs. Don’t bring too much—just enough for the duration of your trip. And always keep your cash in a safe spot! - Phone Signal? Don’t Count on It
While on Labengki, stable mobile signal is rare. So make sure to download your maps, save emergency contacts, and store your itinerary offline. But honestly, this is a great time for a digital detox—enjoy nature, have real conversations, and take a break from the online world. - Best Time to Visit Labengki
For sunny weather and calm seas, visit between April and October. Avoid the rainy season, when high waves and unpredictable weather can disrupt your travel plans. During the dry season, you’ll be free to explore all the best spots without worrying about storms or delays. - Must-Bring Essentials
Packing for Labengki isn’t something to take lightly. Make sure you bring a dry bag to keep valuables safe from water, sunblock to protect your skin, and your own snorkeling gear if you prefer not to rent. Don’t forget personal medications, especially if you have special conditions. And bring a headlamp or flashlight for nighttime activities, especially if your accommodation has limited electricity. These small items will make a big difference during your Labengki adventure.
Read more: How to Get to Luwuk Banggai
Let’s Go to Labengki—Now It’s Your Turn to Explore!
Labengki isn’t just another destination with pretty views to snap and forget. It offers a complete experience—from the thrilling journey, warm welcome from the locals, to the pure tranquility of untouched nature. If you’re craving a different kind of vacation, far from the chaos of city life, Labengki is the perfect choice. Its peaceful vibe, pristine environment, and meaningful activities like snorkeling, trekking, or simply enjoying the sea will leave a lasting impression.
If you love exploring unique places like Labengki, here’s another must-visit for your bucket list: the Banggai Islands. Also located in Sulawesi, Banggai offers equally stunning marine scenery. For an even more intense and exclusive sea exploration, IndonesiaJuara Trip’s Luwuk Banggai Tour is the perfect option. Everything is professionally arranged—from top snorkeling spots to hidden gems and cozy accommodations for a maximized holiday. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Banggai Trip now!
