Visiting Labuan Bajo means exploring Komodo National Park, island hopping, and capturing unforgettable sunsets. But to share your adventures and stay in touch, you’ll need a reliable way to connect. Internet access in Labuan Bajo has improved over the years, but coverage and speeds can still vary depending on where you are. Here’s your complete guide to staying connected through SIM cards, eSIM options, WiFi — and of course, WhatsApp.
Mobile Networks in Labuan Bajo
The main providers in Indonesia are Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo.
- Telkomsel usually offers the best coverage in Labuan Bajo and surrounding islands, especially for remote areas and boat trips.
- XL Axiata and Indosat may work well in town, but can be less reliable once you’re out at sea.
📌 Tip: If you plan to explore Komodo National Park, Telkomsel is your safest bet.
Getting a SIM Card in Labuan Bajo
Where to Buy
- Labuan Bajo Airport (Komodo Airport – LBJ): Counters selling Telkomsel SIM cards are usually available.
- Town Shops: Small phone shops in town can set you up, though not all staff speak English.
What You’ll Need
- Passport (for registration – required by Indonesian law).
- Cash in Indonesian Rupiah (most places don’t take cards for SIM purchases).
Typical Prices
- Tourist data packages start around IDR 100,000–150,000 (~USD 7–10) for 10–15 GB.
- Larger packages (30–50 GB) are available if you plan heavy use like video calls or hotspot sharing.
💡 Pro Tip: While you can buy SIM cards in Labuan Bajo, it’s often easier and faster to get one at a major international airport like Bali (Ngurah Rai – DPS) or Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta – CGK). These airports typically have official provider counters, English-speaking staff, and more package options. That way, you’ll land in Labuan Bajo already connected.
Using an eSIM in Labuan Bajo
If your phone supports eSIM, this is the most hassle-free option. You can buy and activate it before you even land.
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Popular providers:
- Airalo – Affordable data plans you can activate instantly. Check Airalo eSIM plans for Indonesia here.
- Holafly – Unlimited data packages with simple setup. See Holafly’s Indonesia eSIM options here.
- Advantages: Instant activation, no need to queue, keep your home number active, flexible data plans.
- Disadvantages: Data-only (no local number for calls or SMS), slightly higher cost than physical SIMs.
💡 Good to know: In Indonesia, almost everyone communicates through WhatsApp. You don’t need a local number or voice plan — just an internet connection. An eSIM with data-only is more than enough to stay connected with friends, drivers, and tour operators.
👉 Learn more in our guide: Using WhatsApp to Communicate in Labuan Bajo.
Disclosure: This guide may include affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. This helps us keep GoBajo running and creating helpful Labuan Bajo travel content.
WiFi in Labuan Bajo
- Hotels & Resorts: Most offer free WiFi, though speeds can be slow during peak hours.
- Cafés & Restaurants: Popular spots in town usually have WiFi, but don’t rely on it for work or streaming.
- Boats & Liveaboards: Some high-end tours provide WiFi, but the connection depends on mobile signal and can be limited.
📌 Reality check: WiFi in Labuan Bajo is serviceable for messaging, browsing, and social media, but less reliable for heavy work tasks.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- For best coverage: Local Telkomsel SIM card.
- For convenience: eSIM activated before arrival.
- For casual use: Rely on hotel WiFi plus a small data plan for navigation.
- For everyday communication: Use WhatsApp — the go-to app in Indonesia.
Tips for Staying Connected
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before heading out.
- Carry a power bank – long boat trips can drain your phone quickly.
- If you’re traveling in a group, consider a hotspot device so everyone can share one data plan.
Labuan Bajo is a paradise where nature takes center stage, but staying connected helps you navigate, share, and stay safe. Whether you pick up a Telkomsel SIM, activate an eSIM, or stick to hotel WiFi, plan ahead so you can focus on the adventure – not the signal bars.
