Indonesia to Mentawai Islands: 2 stops, 1,668 km route
This route spans 1,668.7 km across Indonesia to the Mentawai Islands, a world-renowned surfing destination off the coast of West Sumatra. The journey involves multiple flights, ferry transfers, and boat rides to reach this remote archipelago known for consistent, high-quality waves.
- Distance
- 1668.7 km
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Escaping Burnout with a One-Way Ticket
- End
- Arrival at Mentawai Islands
- Stops
- 2
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Escaping Burnout with a One-Way Ticket — A transformative journey concept exploring digital nomadism and personal reset through indefinite travel without predetermined return dates.
- Arrival at Mentawai Islands — Pristine Indonesian archipelago off Sumatra's west coast renowned for world-class surf breaks, untouched rainforests, and indigenous Mentawai culture.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Book one-way tickets instead of round-trip flights. It changes your mindset as a traveler, opens you to unexpected experiences, and lets you adapt when plans change.
- Transport
- Getting to Mentawai Islands involves: two overnight flights, transit hotel stay, 3.5-hour ferry ride, then additional boat ride to reach the resort.
- Where to stay
- Awera Resort prices start around $175 USD per person per night. Offers electricity, running water, community-based barefoot living style with laptop/valuables security.
- Timing
- Plan for potential weather delays. Storms can develop and change wave conditions; weather forecasts may be unreliable. Build flexibility into your schedule.
- Food
- Mango bowls and good quality cappuccinos with almond milk are available at the resort. Bring appetite—daily surfing creates significant energy expenditure.
- Tip
- The Mentawai Islands airport has an extremely small runway. Planes measure passenger weight due to limited capacity. X-ray machines may not be operational.
- Tip
- Apply sunscreen generously before surfing. 15 minutes of coating yourself in sunblock is necessary even on cloudy days when waves are poor.
- Tip
- Mangroves paddleboarding area is protected with clear-bottom canoes for viewing marine life. Be cautious of wildlife (dogs, crocodiles) near landing areas.
- Tip
- Yoga and acroyoga sessions are available at Awera Resort. Schedule early morning surfing sessions (7 AM start) for best conditions.
- Avoid
- If surfing for the first time, expect soreness comparable to first-day snowboarding. Protect your camera equipment during water shots—large waves can cause damage.
Video on this route
Escaping Burnout with a 1WAY Ticket (What's next for Lost LeBlanc)