How to get to Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is about 3.5 hours by road from Medan. Here are your options, from a door-to-door car to two local buses.
Medan & Kualanamu Airport to Bukit Lawang
Fly into Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), which has direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Penang, Bangkok, Jakarta and Bali.
| Option | From the airport | From Medan city | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private car | €40 · 3.5–4 hrs | €35 · 3–3.5 hrs | Door to door. Driver, fuel, tolls and parking included; one bag plus carry-on each. We can book it for you. |
| Shared tourist bus | IDR 210,000 p.p. | IDR 165,000 p.p. | Comfortable middle option with fixed departure times. |
| Public bus | ALS bus to Binjai (IDR 60,000), then local bus (IDR 30,000) | Minibus from Pinang Baris station (~IDR 50,000, ~3 hrs) | Cheapest. The last bus from Binjai leaves around 6pm. |
Getting to Batu Katak
Batu Katak is about 4–4.5 hours from Kualanamu Airport, or 30–45 minutes from Bukit Lawang. Most trekkers stay in Bukit Lawang and transfer on the morning of their trek; we'll arrange it.
Tips for the journey
- Road times vary with traffic and the last stretch is slow, so leave buffer time.
- Bring cash: there's no ATM in Bukit Lawang. The nearest is in Bahorok.
- Transfer fees can be paid to the driver in rupiah or added to your trek invoice.
- Tell us in advance about oversized luggage.
- Coming from Bali? Look for direct Bali–Medan flights (around 4h40) or connect via Jakarta.
More detail on the Escape To Sumatra transport page.
Getting there FAQ
How long does it take to get from Medan to Bukit Lawang?
About 3 to 3.5 hours from Medan city and 3.5 to 4 hours from Kualanamu Airport by private car. Public buses take longer.
Can you pick me up from the airport?
Yes. A private transfer from Kualanamu Airport to Bukit Lawang costs €40 and includes the driver, fuel, tolls and parking. The driver tracks your flight if it's delayed.
How do I get from Bukit Lawang to Batu Katak?
It's a 30–45 minute drive or motorbike ride. On the combo trek the transfer is included.
Is there an ATM in Bukit Lawang?
No. The nearest ATM is in Bahorok, on the way in. Bring enough cash from Medan for your trek, accommodation and food.
Pick your dates. We'll do the rest.
Send us a WhatsApp with your dates and group size. We'll confirm availability, suggest the right trek, and can book your transfer from Medan and a guesthouse by the river.