Transportation in Jakarta
The city spreads back from the sea and the harbour at Ancon, with a definite centre at The National Monument. Split into North, South, East, West and Central it's easy to know where you are.The city's attractions are spread across all the districts. It's possible to get around by Trans Jakarta Bus, but if in doubt take a taxi.The centre is home to museums and the monuments, whilst in South Jakarta the Kemang district is the place to dance the night away or sing karaoke. North Jakarta offers the sea, the harbour and the old colonial town of Batavia.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Taxi
The taxis of Jakarta vary a lot, and caution should be used when choosing a taxi company. By far the safest and the best come fromThe Blue Bird Group. Vehicles vary from Blue, the basic blue car, through to Silver Birds where passengers are whisked around the city in a Mercedes Coupé.
Bus
The Trans Jakarta Bus offers the best public transport, with new routes opening annually. There will soon be 10 routes, all colour-coded. The bus uses specially constructed "bus corridors". Fares are Rp5,000, and stored-value cards and special offers are available. Travelling outside the morning and evening rush hours means avoiding the crowds. Special fares are available at off-peak times.
Foot
Walking should only be considered for very short excursions because of the heat. Short strolls around the harbour and the Central districts are possible. Taking a long walk in Jakarta will result in a very uncomfortable and perspiring visitor.
Rent your car
Car hire is possible in Jakarta, but congestion is a huge problem. To ease this, tolls are payable on on the roads to the airport and Merak port, cars travelling with less than three people are banned during peak times on some roads, and an outer ring road is being constructed.
Transportation Tips
For the longer journeys across town, a taxi is the best option, and a Blue Bird taxi can be booked to come to the hotel. Trans Jakarta Buses haveday travel cards, and bus route maps can be found in hotels and bus terminals
