Bakauheni Travel Guide

This port city is an important gate of entry for the Indonesian island of Sumatra. On the island’s southern side, just a short distance from the island of Java, Bakauheni is within easy reach of Jakarta.

There are not any outright attractions in Bakauheni, and travelers are most likely to continue on to more prominent cities on Sumatra. The island features a rugged, volcanic landscape that appeals to adventure and outdoor loving travelers. Scuba diving, hiking and wildlife watching are favorite activities.

The nearest city of interest is Bandar Lampung, the provincial capital that can be reached by car in two hours. Attractions in the capital include the Way Kambas Elephant Training Center and Lampung Bay with its sheer cliffs.

Getting There & Away

As one of Sumatra’s gateway towns, Bakauheni has plenty of transportation options. From Jakarta on the island of Java you can arrange a transfer by car to Merak port (1 hour, 30 minutes). From here it is a straightforward 2-hour ferry ride across the Sunda Strait to Bakauheni. Tourists can make use of the car ferry to bring a rental car from Jakarta.

Things to Do

Bakauheni Attractions

Ferry terminal

While it may not be a tourist attraction, the port at bakauheni is an important stepping stone for anyone crossing between java and sumatra.

Side trips from Bakauheni

Elephant Training Center

Outside of banda lampung, the elephant training center stages elephant shows (including soccer matches) and offers rides.