Jakarta serves as a gateway city to the other parts of Indonesia, whether you're here on vacation, business, or just transit; chances are you'll need to get around the city. This article serves as a guide to the most common methods of getting around the bustling metropolis.

The Importance of E-Money in Jakarta

These bank-issued prepaid cards are essential in getting around Jakarta. E-Money is mandatory for using public transport and paying toll roads. Having one prepared saves you from the trouble of not having one when you desperately need it. You can purchase one from a convenience store, e.g. Alfamart and Indomaret.

From the Soekarno-Hatta Airport to the City Center

To get to the city center, you can take one of these options:

• Airport Train – the most straightforward option, it takes you to the city for Rp 70.000. You can purchase the ticket via vending machines in the station or the Railink app. Link to the schedule.
• DAMRI Buses – the cheapest option, starting from Rp 40.000 to the city center. Tickets can be bought at bus stalls inside the airport building.
• Taxi – convenient but pretty expensive with prices ranging from Rp 150.000 - 300.000, not including toll fees. They can be found after just exiting the airport building, we recommend choosing a trusted company such as BlueBird.
• Private Car Rental – provides all the convenience of a taxi and more. We provide a car and driver that takes you to the city while you sit back and relax. You can find out more on our airport transfer service.

Getting Around Jakarta

1. Public Transport

There has never been a better time to take public transport in Jakarta; with the recent completion of the MRT complementing the already existing TransJakarta bus line.

• TransJakarta Bus – the public bus service of Jakarta, they run 24 hours and cover all the places of interest in Jakarta. Fees are a flat Rp 3.500/trip, however it is compulsory to use E-Money for payment at the gate. Link to their website
• MRT Jakarta – is a recently completed rail transport system that covers the hotspots of Jakarta, however it is not as extensive as the bus line. Fees are calculated by distance upwards to Rp 14.000, tickets can be purchased via vending machnines at the station or by using E-Money (without any ticket). Link to their website.
• Train – unlike the new and trendy MRT, the Commuter train line is old yet proven. The train line is quite extensive and will get packed during rush hours, so be prepared. Tickets can be purchased at the station or by using E-Money (without any ticket). Link to their website

2. Taxi

Taking a cab to go around Jakarta is definitely convenvient, since they can be found almost everywhere in high-traffic areas and also randomly in the streets. Note however that the cost can rack up rather quickly if taking frequent trips. Again, we recommend taking a taxi only from trusted companies such as BlueBird.

3. Online Taxi

Indonesia doesn't have Uber (we used to) so there are only 2 options here, either Go-Jek or Grab. These are seen as a cheaper alternative to traditional taxis, however prices often fluctuate during rush hours so keep that in mind. To use their services one must download their mobile app from the App Store or Play Store and order through the app.

4. Drive Yourself

We don't recommend driving if this is your first time in Jakarta, because of the stress and headache it ensues. The drivers in Jakarta are aggressive to a fault, the daily commuters either deal with it or become one themselves. If you're steadfast in driving yourself, be sure to have an international driver's license, an E-Money, and a lot of patience.

5. Private Car Rental

For the most convenient option, we recommend renting a car with a driver; and that is our specialty. We provide a car rental service along with a driver so you have the absolute freedom of destination without dealing with the chaotic streets of Jakarta yourself. Visit our website to rent a car with driver in Jakarta.