Getting Around Indonesia 2025: Ferries, Ojeks, Taxis & Flights
Indonesia is an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, which makes getting around an adventure in itself. From the chaotic traffic of Jakarta to the calm ferries between the Gili Islands, understanding the local transport system is key to a stress-free trip. Here is your 2025 guide to mastering Ojeks, fast boats, and avoiding taxi scams.
1. The "Super Apps": Grab and Gojek
Forget Uber. In Indonesia, two apps rule the roads: Grab and Gojek. Downloading these before you arrive is essential.
Cost: Short trips (under 5km) usually cost IDR 15,000 - 20,000 ($1-$1.50).
Cost: Car rides start around IDR 30,000 - 40,000 for short distances.
Pro Tip: Link your credit card to these apps to avoid the hassle of small change. Prices are fixed, so no haggling is required.
2. Blue Bird Taxis: The Safe Choice
If you hail a taxi on the street (especially in Jakarta or Bali), only use Blue Bird Group. They are famous for reliability and always using the meter.
Pricing (2025 Est.):
• Flag Fall (Start): IDR 7,500 - 8,500
• Per KM: IDR 5,000 - 6,000
• Minimum Payment (App Booking): IDR 30,000
3. Traditional Transport: Bemos, Becaks & Ojeks
For short distances or rural areas where apps might not work, you will encounter Indonesia's traditional transport methods. These offer a more authentic, albeit slower, experience.
- Becak (Rickshaw): Cycle rickshaws found in Java. Cost: Negotiable, usually IDR 20,000 - 50,000 for a short tour.
- Ojek (Street Motorbike Taxi): If no app is available, look for "Pangkalan Ojeks". Cost: Negotiate hard! Usually 50% more than Gojek prices (e.g., IDR 25,000 for a short ride).
- Bemo / Angkot: Small public minivans. Cost: Very cheap, typically IDR 5,000 - 10,000 per person.
4. Island Hopping: Ferries vs. Flights
Moving between islands (e.g., Bali to Lombok, Java to Sumatra) requires planning. Your choice depends on your budget and tolerance for rough seas.
Fast Boats & Ferries
Fast Boats (Bali to Gili/Lombok): 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: IDR 350,000 - 600,000 one way. Reliable operators: Eka Jaya, Blue Water Express.
Public Ferry (Bali to Lombok): Slow (4-5 hours) but carries scooters. Cost: Approx. IDR 60,000 - 70,000 per person.
Domestic Flights
Indonesia has a vast network of budget airlines (Lion Air, Citilink, Batik Air). Flights from Bali to Lombok take 30 mins and cost IDR 800,000 - 1,200,000 ($50-$80). Much safer during rainy season waves.
5. Transport Price Cheat Sheet (2025)
Use this table to budget your trip and avoid overpaying.
| Transport Type | Approx. Cost (IDR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gojek/Grab Bike | Rp 15,000 - 30,000 | Short trips (3-5 km). Fixed Price. |
| Gojek/Grab Car | Rp 40,000 - 90,000 | Short to medium trips. Fixed Price. |
| Blue Bird Taxi | Rp 7,500 start + Rp 5,500/km | Metered. Reliable. |
| Fast Boat (Bali-Gili) | Rp 350,000 - 600,000 | One-way ticket. Varies by operator. |
| Public Ferry | Rp 60,000 - 70,000 | Very slow (4-5 hours). |
| Becak / Ojek (Street) | Rp 20,000 - 50,000 | Must negotiate price beforehand. |
| Private Driver (10 Hrs) | Rp 600,000 - 800,000 | Includes petrol and driver meals. |
Travel planned? Don't forget your visa is the first ticket you need.
Apply for Indonesia VisaFAQ - Transport in Indonesia
No. Uber sold its Southeast Asia operations to Grab years ago. You cannot use the Uber app here. Download Grab or Gojek instead.
Yes, they are considered the gold standard for safety. They have an app called "MyBlueBird" which allows you to book them just like Grab, often with less surge pricing during rain.
If you use an app (Grab/Gojek) or a metered taxi (Blue Bird), no. For everything else—street Ojeks, Becaks, private drivers for tours—bargaining is essential. Start at 50% of the asking price.
Blue Bird taxis start with a flagfall of around IDR 7,500. A 30-minute ride typically costs IDR 80,000 - 120,000 ($5-$8 USD) depending on traffic.
Only if you are an experienced rider and have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement. Police checks are frequent. See our full Driving Guide here.