Getting Here
When planning a trip to Bukit Lawang, your journey typically begins with a flight to Medan Kuala Namu International Airport. The most convenient airports for this route are Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Singapore, Bangkok and Jakarta. From any of these locations, you can take a short flight to Medan, which takes about an hours.
How to Getting Here
Upon arriving at Medan, you have three main transportation options to reach Bukit Lawang, depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences:
1. Private Car
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Offers maximum comfort and convenience.
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Direct door-to-door service.
2. Tourist Bus (Shared Car)
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Affordable and comfortable option.
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Available through services like Tropical Orang-Utan Tours, with pick-up/drop-off at Medan Airport.
3. Public Bus
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Most economical but involves transfers and longer travel time
If you are doing a roundtrip in Sumatra, you can also reach Bukit Lawang from Berastagi and/or Lake Toba by tourist bus (shared car).
Local bus
Using a local bus from Medan Airport to Bukit Lawang involves a few steps and considerations due to the lack of direct bus services. Here’s a general guide on how you can travel by public transportation from Medan Airport to Bukit Lawang:
From Medan Airport To Bukit lawang via Binjai City
ALS buses leave directly from Kuala Namu airport to Binjai city (50,000 RP). On arrival at Binjai station, take a tuk-tuk (10,000 RP) to Tanah Lapang Binjai. From there, take the L300 or PS bus (35,000 RP) directly to Bukit Lawang.
From Medan Airport to Medan City Center
After arriving at Kualanamu International Airport (Medan Airport), you can take a taxi, Grab or airport shuttle to the city center of Medan. Taxis are available outside the airport terminal, and shuttle services may be offered by some hotels or travel agencies.
Travel Time and Schedule
The journey from Medan to Bukit Lawang by local bus or minibus typically takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way. Minibuses may depart once they are full, so it’s recommended to arrive early to ensure a seat.
From Amplas Bus Terminal to Bukit Lawang
Take a taxi or local bus to Amplas Terminal/ Pinang Baris. Ask your driver to drop you at ‘Mawar’ bakery (1km from the bus terminal) where you can catch the public bus direct to Bukit Lawang (50,000 RP with luggage). The bus takes 4-5 hours and stops frequently along the way, including a longer stop at Binjai city for refueling. Leave the bus at the bus terminal in Gotong Royong, a village just 5 minutes from Bukit Lawang.
From Medan Hotel or City Center to Amplas Bus Terminal
Once in Medan city center, head to Amplas Bus Terminal. This is the main terminal where buses and minivans depart for various destinations, including Bukit Lawang. Taxis or local transportation options (like angkot, which are shared minibusses) can take you to Amplas Bus Terminal from Medan city center or Hotel.
Ticket Purchase
Tickets for the local bus or minibus can be purchased at Amplas Bus Terminal. Prices are usually affordable, but it's a good idea to have Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in cash for the fare.
Considerations
Be mindful of your belongings and personal safety while traveling on local buses. It's also advisable to check with locals or your accommodation in Medan for the latest information on bus schedules and routes to Bukit Lawang.
Alternatively,
if you prefer a more direct and convenient option, private transport services or arranged transfers from Medan Airport to Bukit Lawang may be available through hotels, tour agencies, or private drivers. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can be arranged in advance for peace of mind.
