When it comes to exploring the vibrant and diverse country of Indonesia, getting around efficiently is essential. This travel guide will provide you with valuable insights on various modes of transportation in Indonesia, ensuring that your journey through this tropical paradise is smooth and hassle-free.
Public Transportation: A Mix of Options
Buses and Becaks
Public buses are not commonly used for city transportation, except in Java, where the Transjakarta Busway provides an extensive network in Jakarta. The fares in this network range from 3,500 to 9,000 IDR, and you can pay using a card purchased from station ticketing offices.
For shorter distances within cities, the popular choice among locals and tourists alike is the becak, a three-wheeled pedal or motor-powered cart. Before hopping in, it’s advisable to negotiate the fare, and you can seek assistance from your hotel or hostel staff for up-to-date price estimates.
Taxis, Grab, and Gojek
Taxis are a convenient and affordable option, particularly in major cities. The most reliable taxi company is Bluebird Taxis, known for their trustworthy metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. Ordering a taxi is made easier with their smartphone app, and the starting rate is approximately 7,500 IDR, with an additional 5,300 IDR per kilometer.
Alternatively, Grab, a renowned ride-hailing service in Southeast Asia, offers a convenient option, but do note that the cost can sometimes exceed that of a regular taxi. Another similar option to consider is Gojek. However, be prepared to ride on the back of a motorbike when using these services.
Island Hopping: Ferries and Buses
Ferry Connections
If you plan to explore different islands, ferries are a popular choice. Prices for ferry tickets start from 15,000 IDR for routes between East Java and West Bali, with rates varying for other destinations. For instance, a one-way speedboat trip from Bali to the Gili Islands costs around 175,000 IDR.
While it’s not mandatory to book ferry tickets in advance, it’s advisable to do so during peak seasons or for popular routes. You can conveniently purchase tickets from the ferry company’s website or through ticket agents like 12go.asia.
Long-Distance Bus Journeys
Buses are the primary mode of transportation for both locals and tourists throughout Indonesia. To ensure a comfortable journey, especially for long distances, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, preferably for air-conditioned buses. You can purchase tickets from travel agents or visit the bus terminals directly. Moreover, your accommodation might also assist you in arranging your transportation.
On average, a 12-hour bus ride costs around 170,000 IDR, while shorter trips, such as from Kuta Beach to Ubud, take less than an hour and cost less than 80,000 IDR. For shorter rides, you might come across “bemos,” mini-buses where it’s advisable to negotiate the fare in advance.
Train Journeys: Connecting Java’s Cities
Indonesia’s cities in Java are efficiently linked by train routes, making train travel an excellent option for exploring the island. The cities covered include Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo), and Banyuwangi (the ferry terminal for Bali).
Economy class tickets from Jakarta to Surabaya take approximately 10.5 hours and cost about 190,000 IDR, while an 8-hour executive class trip may start from 620,000 IDR. For a shorter journey like Surabaya to Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo), the economy class ride takes 2-3 hours and costs 27,000 IDR, while executive class tickets start at 240,000 IDR. Additionally, Surabaya to Banyuwangi (for Bali) takes 6-7 hours with economy class fares as low as 56,000 IDR, and executive class tickets priced from 235,000 IDR. For online ticket reservations, you can visit tiket.com.
Take Flight: Airlines and Hitchhiking
Air Travel within Indonesia
For domestic flights, Garuda Indonesia is the country’s main airline, offering a wide range of domestic and international routes. Lion Air and AirAsia also operate numerous domestic flights, although it’s worth noting that Lion Air’s safety record has had some concerns in the past.
Flights between Jakarta and Bali start at around 900,000 IDR per way, while Jakarta to Lombok flights start from 1,200,000 IDR. Similarly, Lombok to Bali flights are available for approximately 1,100,000 IDR. However, it’s important to keep in mind that flying might not always be the most cost-effective option and is recommended primarily for travelers with limited time.
Hitchhiking: An Adventure in Itself
If you are feeling adventurous, hitchhiking in Indonesia is possible, though not very common. It’s advisable to learn some basic phrases as English isn’t widely spoken. For further guidance and information, you can explore Hitchwiki for useful tips.
With this comprehensive travel guide on navigating Indonesia’s transportation options, you are well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable journey through this incredible archipelago. So pack your bags, hop on a bus, train, or ferry, and get ready to discover the wonders of Indonesia!
For more travel tips and inspiration, visit Ekilove.