Getting to Indonesia
By Air
There are two international airports in Indonesia: Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta, and Ngurah Rai on Bali. Most countries with connections in Asia also fly into Jakarta. Some really cheap flights come from Singapore.
Overland
There is only one official international entry point by land: the border between Sarawak and Entiknong, Kalimantan. Visitors will be issued a 60-day tourist pass on arrival.
Getting Around Indonesia
By Car
You can rent a car in Bali and in the larger cities, with prices ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 rupiah per day. Travelers who want to brave the traffic will need an international driver's license. Road rules are lightly enforced in Indonesia, so be forewarned. It might work better if you just rented a driver beginning at 50,000 rupiah. Hertz, Avis, and other reputable car rental companies are present at Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, Medan, Surabaya, and Bandung.
Indonesians drive on the left side of the road.
By Taxi
Only major cities have metered taxis, and even then “broken” meters are quite common. Haggle fares with the driver before riding one, and don’t be afraid to walk away. Airport taxi stands offer fixed rates to tourist destinations.
By Bus
Most people get around by bus. Ordinary buses (ekonomi) have set runs between towns. Express buses (patas) are more comfortable. Luxury buses can come with on-board karaoke, toilets, and reclining seats – but will need to be booked in advance.
Places like Jakarta, Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa will have fairly reliable local bus services.
By Rail
Java and parts of Sumatra enjoy regular rail service.
By Air
Garuda Indonesia flies daily to cities in the provinces. Some other domestic destinations might also be serviced by smaller airlines like Merpati
Other
To get around, you might want to try the less conventional means of transit. Remember to haggle before riding.
- becaks (three-wheeled passenger bicycles)
- bajajs (motorized becaks)
- dekars (horse-drawn carriages) – fancy but expensive
- ojeks (motorcycle taxis) – found at bus terminals and large cities
