Rote Island, also known as Rote Ndao, is located in the southernmost part of Indonesia and is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, cliffs, caves and mangroves. The island offers world-class surf spots and is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, especially in Nemberala, the most famous village for surfers. Rote is a tranquil retreat with a rich culture, including the traditional art of weaving IKAT. The population of around 100,000 inhabitants lives mainly from agriculture, seaweed plantations, fishing and animal husbandry. The island experiences two distinct seasons: The dry season from April to October, ideal for surfing, and the rainy season from November to March, which transforms the landscape into a lush green. Rote can be reached by Ferry or flight from Kupang, the capital of Timor-Leste.
Table of contents
Timetable, Prices & Availability
Enter your travel details in the connection search to check times, current prices and ferry availability in the port of Red.
Ferry connections from & to Red
Here you see an overview of all ferry routes which currently call at the port of Red:
| Route | Country of origin & country of destination | Number & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Tenau (Kupang) – Red | IndonesiaIndonesia | 7 times a week 1 hour 30 minutes |
Brief information harbour Red
| Country: | Indonesia |
| Language: | Indonesian |
| Currency: | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) |
| Time zone: | Asia/Jakarta, WIB (Western Indonesian Time) |
| UNLOCODE: | not assigned |
Addresses & Arrival
To make your journey to Red easier, you will find all the important addresses in the ferry port of Red here.
Address ferry harbour Red
| Postcode & city: | Red, Namodale |
| Country: | Indonesia |
| GPS: | -10.723793, 123.043927 |
Ferry terminals & other addresses
| Provider | Address |
|---|---|
| Express Bahari |
Express Bahari Jl. Dermaga Ba'a Red, Namodale Indonesia GPS: -10.723793, 123.043927 (Latitude, Longitude) |
| Parking lot |
small parking lot at the ferry port Jl. Dermaga Ba'a Red, Namodale Indonesia GPS: -10.725060, 123.044618 (Latitude, Longitude) |
Travel information
Arrival by car
The Rote Namodale ferry port can be reached by car via the main roads on Pulau Rote Island. Follow the roads in the direction of Namodale. The ferry port is located at Jl. Pelabuhan in Namodale.
Arrival by bus & train
There are no rail connections to Pulau Rote. However, buses run regularly between the towns and villages on the island. Check the local bus timetable for connections to Namodale.
Arrival by plane
There is no airport on Pulau Rote. The nearest airport is on the island of Timor, about 200 kilometers away. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Kupang and then take the Ferry to Rote Namodale.
Map of the ferry harbour Red
Travel guide: Rote: An undiscovered paradise in Indonesia
Indonesia’s southernmost island of Rote enchants with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and an inviting culture. Discover this hidden gem where traditional ways of life and breathtaking natural beauty go hand in hand.
Sights and excursion destinations
Rote offers a multitude of fascinating places to explore:
- Nemberala Beach: Known for its excellent surfing conditions and white sandy beach.
- Termanu Stone: A mystical place with huge, ancient megaliths surrounded by legends.
- Bo’a Beach: Perfect for surfers and sun worshippers with impressive waves and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Lake Peto: A tranquil freshwater lake, ideal for a refreshing swim in the middle of nature.
- Red Cultural Center: Learn more about the rich history and culture of the island and its inhabitants.
Activities
There are numerous activities on Rote that will make your stay unforgettable:
- Surfing: Rote is a paradise for surfers with world-class waves on several beaches.
- Hiking: Explore the landscape on hikes through tropical forests and coastlines.
- Snorkeling: Discover the colourful underwater world of the coral reefs around the island.
History of the place
Rote has a long history characterized by local kingdoms, trade and encounters with European explorers. The island has preserved its cultural identity and traditions to this day.
Eating, drinking and shopping
Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties in the restaurants and warungs. You can find handicrafts and products from the island at the local markets.
Public transportation
Transportation is limited on Rote, so the best way to explore the island is to rent a scooter or bike.
Accommodation
The island offers accommodation for every taste, from simple guest houses to luxurious resorts right on the beach.