To get around Indonésie, several means of transportation are available. By plane, train, boat, car, taxi, becak, bemo… Each of these modes of transport has its own advantages and disadvantages. We've prepared a brief overview for you!

By Plane

Since Indonésie is a vast archipelago comprising thousands of islands, flying is essential for getting around. This mode of transportation saves considerable time, especially when traveling between different islands that are more or less distant from one another. Another advantage is that Indonésie has numerous airports as well as a dozen airlines offering reasonably attractive fares.

Advantages:

• Speed
• Comfort
• Number of airports and airlines

Disadvantage:

• Cost

By Train

A legacy of Dutch colonial rule, trains are an excellent means of getting around Indonésie. They're recommended for travelers wanting to enjoy the splendid landscapes of the archipelago. Moreover, train travel allows you to save money, as fares are very affordable and onboard comfort is assured. The only downside: the railway network is extremely limited. It consists of one line on Sumatra and two others on Java.

Advantages:

• Pricing: cheaper than flying or driving
• Comfort
• Train stations are located in city centers
• Scenery

Disadvantage:

• Limited railway network

By Boat

To get from island to island, nothing beats a boat. In Indonésie, you can choose between ferries (larger, but somewhat slow) or speed boats which are, as the name suggests, faster but less comfortable. Depending on your destination, they may run several times a day or per week. Those with larger budgets who wish to take fuller advantage of the tropical landscapes often opt for cruise ships.

Advantages:

• Convenient
• Comfortable
• Affordable prices

Disadvantages:

• Availability (on certain islands, boats run only once a week)
• Journey times can be quite long

By Car

Car rental is the ideal way to get around Indonésie. Economical, comfortable, and secure, a car allows you to move freely on each island. On some islands, roads can be bumpy, making driving somewhat challenging and bumpy, but don't worry—good driving habits develop very quickly.

Advantages:

• Economical
• Comfortable
• Secure
• Fast
• No time constraints

Disadvantages:

• Doesn't allow inter-island travel
• Road conditions

By Taxi

Taxis are also an excellent way to get around Indonésie. Very affordable and accessible, they're found throughout the country. However, be careful when flagging down a taxi on the street. Before getting in, make sure there's a meter and that it's working, otherwise you risk paying a fare three to five times higher than normal. Alternatively, you can always opt for official taxi companies.

Advantages:

• Affordable
• Accessible

Disadvantage:

• Scams by certain drivers

By Becak

The becak is one of the most commonly used modes of transportation in Indonésie. It's a type of pedicab (with or without a motor) that can accommodate a maximum of two people. Originating from the island of Java, this practical mode of transport is perfect for your short-distance journeys. In addition to being affordable, ride prices are still negotiable.

Advantages:

• Affordable
• Convenient for short distances

Disadvantage:

• Very limited seating capacity

By Bemo

Another way to get around Indonésie: bemos. These are minibuses that can accommodate around ten passengers. They represent a mode of transport that is quite practical and affordable. However, before buying your ticket, negotiate, as drivers often increase fares for foreigners. Once you have your ticket in hand, don't expect the bus to depart immediately either. Indeed, if prices are flexible, so are the schedules.

Advantage:

• Convenient
• Affordable (provided you know how to negotiate the price)

Disadvantage:

• Schedules

With Azimuth Adventure Travel, you'll typically have a dedicated driver with a vehicle, allowing you to move around wherever you wish. They are qualified and know the country extremely well.