Getting Around Jakarta. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Systems

TransJakarta (BRT - Bus Rapid Transit) forms the backbone of Jakarta's public transport. It features an extensive network of dedicated bus lanes and over 250 routes. Buses are air-conditioned, and the dedicated lanes help avoid some of the city's notorious traffic.

MRT Jakarta (Mass Rapid Transit) operates a North-South line (Lebak Bulus Grab to Bundaran HI) through central Jakarta. It is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned, delivering fast movement between areas.

Other Rail Services

KRL Commuter Line: Connects Jakarta to its satellite cities.
LRT Jakarta: A shorter tram system in East Jakarta. More lines under construction.
Integrated Hubs: Dukuh Atas BNI station connects MRT, KRL, Airport Railink, TransJakarta.
Operating Hours: Generally 5:MIDNIGHT TO 10:00 PM - midnight. TransJakarta operates 24/7 on some main corridors.

TransJakarta BRT

Extensive dedicated bus lanes, flat fare.

MRT Jakarta

Modern, efficient, air-conditioned.

Electronic Cards

E-Money, Flazz, TapCash are widely used.

Ticketing & Navigation

Payment Methods

Electronic Cards: Purchase and top up at convenience stores, stations.
MRT/LRT: Single-trip QR code tickets on apps.
Jak Lingko: An integrated payment system for seamless transfers.

Fares and Advice

TransJakarta: Flat fare IDR 3,500.
MRT/LRT/KRL: Fares depend on distance.
Avoid Rush Hour: Mornings (7-9 AM) and evenings (4-7 PM) are crowded.

Ride-Sharing & Taxi Options

Gojek

Dominant app for cars, motorcycles, delivery.

Grab

Popular alternative for transport and services.

Blue Bird

Reputable metered taxi company.

Local Charm

Bajaj (auto-rickshaws) and Becak (bicycle rickshaws).

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Details

Taxis and ride-sharing apps provide convenient travel, especially for direct routes or with luggage. They offer flexibility in navigating Jakarta's urban landscape.

Taxi Information

Licensed Taxis: Look for Blue Bird Group (most reliable).
Fares: Meters are mandatory; ensure use. Cash common.
Hailing: On street, at stands, or via apps.
Safety: Stick to reputable companies; avoid unlicensed taxis.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Gojek & Grab: Highly recommended apps for motor vehicles and motorcycles.
Booking: Easy to use, fixed fares upfront, cash or card payment.
Safety: Registered drivers, trackable rides. Verify information.
Services: Beyond transport, consider AirHelp for flight issues.

Smart Travel Strategies

Use apps like Gojek and Grab for competitive rates compared to metered taxis.
Motorcycle options (GoRide/GrabBike) are more rapid and cheaper for solo travel, navigating traffic well.
Plan for longer travel times, particularly during rush hour, regardless of transport method.

Utilize exact addresses in ride-hailing apps to avoid driver confusion.
Tipping is not typically expected, but rounding up the fare for good service is a kind gesture.
Toll fees are separate; drivers usually collect them directly for cash or add to the app fare.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Not recommended for tourists due to chaotic traffic. Consider a car with a driver instead.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Extremely dangerous for tourists due to aggressive driving. Less common for rent in city.

Bicycle Rental

Limited to popular spots like Kota Tua for brief trips, or Car Free Day.

Walking & Cycling in Jakarta

Walking and cycling are enjoyable in specific areas, but Jakarta's overall infrastructure has challenges. Careful planning helps make these options viable.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Kota Tua (Old Town): Pedestrian-friendly within the main Fatahillah Square area.
Malls: Excellent indoor walking environments.
Parks: Taman Suropati, Monas Park, Ragunan Zoo offer pleasant spaces.
Car Free Day: Sundays on Jalan Sudirman and Thamrin for pedestrians and cyclists.