Local Transportation

Indonesia's road traffic is famously chaotic — and surprisingly functional once you understand the system.

Grab & Gojek (Indonesia's Uber)

The two ride-hailing apps are your best friend in Indonesian cities. Available in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Medan, Makassar, and most larger cities. Grab and Gojek offer:

• GrabBike / GoRide: Motorcycle taxi — the fastest (and most thrilling) way to get through traffic jams. 10 km for ~15,000 IDR (0.90 €)
• GrabCar / GoCar: Car taxi with AC — more comfortable but slower in traffic. 10 km for ~40,000 IDR (2.40 €)
• GrabFood / GoFood: Food delivery — try the street food in your neighborhood

Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi)

The traditional Ojek — a motorcycle taxi without an app — is available everywhere Grab doesn't work. On Flores, in Toraja, and on smaller islands often the only option. Negotiate the price beforehand!

Bemo & Angkot

Minibuses that run fixed routes but stop anywhere. Cheapest transport option (5,000–10,000 IDR), but slow and without AC. Widely used on Java and Sumatra.

Renting a Scooter

The most popular way for tourists to get around: rent a scooter from 70,000 IDR (4.20 €) per day. An international driver's license is theoretically required but rarely checked. Helmet mandatory! On Flores and in Sulawesi, the scooter is often the only sensible option.

Train (only Java)

Java's train network is surprisingly good: The connection Jakarta → Yogyakarta with the Argo Wilis or Taksaka takes 7–8 hours, is comfortable (AC, seat reservation), and costs from 250,000 IDR (15 €) in Business Class. Much more pleasant than flying if you want to enjoy the journey. Bookable online via the PT KAI App.