Indonesia's Transport Reality
Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago — 17,000+ islands spread across 5,000km. Getting between islands means flying or taking ferries. Getting around within cities and islands has its own systems, tricks, and traps.
Between Islands: Flying
For most inter-island journeys, flying is the only realistic option. Lion Air, Citilink, and Garuda Indonesia all operate extensive domestic networks. Book early for the cheapest fares — last-minute domestic flights can be surprisingly expensive. Budget airlines in Indonesia have had safety issues historically; Garuda is the premium, safer option for longer routes.
Between Islands: Ferries
For shorter crossings (Bali to Lombok, Java to Bali) the Pelni ferry network offers slow but cheap travel. The Bali-Lombok fast boat takes 2 hours; the slow ferry takes 4–5 hours but costs almost nothing. Check weather conditions in rainy season — rough crossings are common November through March.
On Bali and Java: Getting Around
GoJek and Grab are the ride-hailing apps that work across Indonesia. Both are cheap, reliable, and have English interfaces. GoJek also handles food delivery, grocery shopping, and more. An ojek (motorcycle taxi) is the fastest way around traffic-heavy areas like Denpasar and Jakarta. Always negotiate price before getting in an unmarked taxi or ojek.
Java by Train
Java has the best rail network in Indonesia. The Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) system connects Jakarta to Surabaya via Yogyakarta and Solo — fast, comfortable, and very affordable. Book at kai.id or at any train station. Executive class is worth the slightly higher price for longer journeys.
Renting a Scooter in Bali
Renting a scooter is the most popular way for visitors to explore Bali. You technically need an international driving licence and a motorcycle endorsement. Wear a helmet at all times (beyond safety, police checkpoints can fine you). Traffic in Kuta and Seminyak can be brutal — consider hiring a driver for those areas instead.