About Lampung accommodation

Lampung sits at Sumatra's southern tip, where jungle, volcano and coastline all meet a short flight or ferry ride from Java. Bandar Lampung is the main gateway, with easy road access south to the Sunda Strait coast and the boat departure points used for island hopping.

Accommodation ranges from straightforward city hotels near Bandar Lampung's business district to low-key stays along the Kalianda coast, handy if you're heading out early for a day on the water. Most places suit independent travel, so it's easy to base yourself centrally and day-trip to the national park, the strait or the islands.

Where to stay in Lampung

• Bandar Lampung: the provincial capital and main hub, with the widest choice of hotels, malls and restaurants plus the airport nearby, a comfortable base with everything close at hand.
• Kalianda: a quieter coastal town in South Lampung that's the usual departure point for boats heading into the Sunda Strait, worth it if an early start for island trips matters to you.

How much is Lampung accommodation?

• Budget: AU$20-35, simple air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi and breakfast, fine for a short stopover in the city.
• Mid-range: AU$45-90, international-standard hotels with a pool, gym and a proper breakfast spread, a good pick for a few nights based in Bandar Lampung.

What Lampung is known for

• Way Kambas National Park: one of Sumatra's oldest national parks and home to a Sumatran elephant sanctuary and training centre, where around 180 wild elephants share the lowland rainforest with rare Sumatran tigers and rhinos.
• Anak Krakatau: across the Sunda Strait, the volcanic cone of Anak Krakatau rises out of the water, a striking sight to spot from boats and coastal viewpoints on a clear day.
• Pahawang Island: a laid-back island around 45 minutes by boat from the Lampung coast, prized for clear water, coral reefs and easy snorkelling spots such as the aptly named Taman Nemo.

Top-rated hotels in Lampung

• Grand Mercure Lampung: a 5-star pick in Bandar Lampung with polished rooms, a pool and full-service dining, the top choice for a bit of extra comfort.
• Novotel Lampung: a 4-star hotel with sea and mountain views, a pool and fitness centre, popular with business and leisure travellers alike.
• Radisson Lampung Kedaton: upscale rooms with a pool and a few dining options, centrally located for getting around the city.
• Golden Tulip Springhill Lampung: a solid 4-star option with comfortable rooms and reliable service, well placed for exploring Bandar Lampung.
• Horison Lampung: a rooftop pool and on-site dining make this a convenient mid-range choice for business and leisure stays alike.

Travel tips for Lampung

• Book boat trips to Pahawang Island or the Sunda Strait a day ahead through your hotel or a local operator, since departures depend on weather and tides.
• Base yourself in Bandar Lampung for easy access to restaurants and transport, or Kalianda if an early start for the coast and islands matters more.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a dry bag for boat trips, as most boats offer limited shade and gear storage.
• If visiting Way Kambas, arrange a guide in advance, since the elephant sanctuary and ranger-led treks are best organised ahead rather than on arrival.