Riau Indonesia Travel Guide
Hang Nadim International Airport (BTH) serves Batam. It's the major airport on the island, handling both passenger and cargo flights. While named "International," its primary function is domestic travel within Indonesia, connecting Batam to many major Indonesian cities.
Most international travelers arriving by air into the region typically arrive at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) or Kl International Airport (KUL) and next get a ferry to Batam. There are no direct flights from major global hubs to Batam. This translates into international visitors usually planning a multi-modal journey, combining journey by air to a regional hub with a subsequent ferry transfer.
Domestic flight prices tend to increase during Indonesian public holidays and school breaks. Booking in advance for these periods is recommended.
Official taxi counters (Blue Bird), ride-sharing apps (Grab, GoJek), and pre-arranged hotel pick-up services available.
If you are traveling internationally, plan to fly into Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) first. Starting there, take a short taxi or public transport ride to HarbourFront Centre, where frequent ferries depart for Batam. This is the primary common and efficient international route.
ATMs and currency exchange services are available at Hang Nadim Airport for your convenience upon arrival.
Various food outlets and cafes accommodate different tastes and dietary requirements within the airport.
Explore duty-free shops for gifts and personal items before your departure or after arrival.
As Batam is an island, land transportation options for getting there and away are not applicable in the traditional sense of crossing borders by car or bus. There are no land borders to navigate.
However, once on the island, self-driving is an option. Renting a car is possible, and many local rental agencies operate on the island. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is by law required in conjunction with your national driving license if you're going to drive.
Many visitors find counting on cabs or ride-sharing-sharing apps a more relaxed way to get around Batam, even though self-driving offers flexibility. Reputable car rental companies, including DiscoverCars.com, provide various vehicle options.
Motorcycle and scooter leasing is widespread from local rental shops and some hotels. An IDP is by law required for motorcyclists. Riders should possess experience, as Batam's roads can be busy. Prices start from IDR 100,000 - 200,000 per day.
Ferries serve as the main international arrival technique for tourists visiting Batam, notably from Singapore and Malaysia. The island boasts several a ferry to another country terminals, each serving diverse regions and offering connections to various departure points.
Ferry operators include Batam Fast, Horizon Fast Ferry, and Sindo Ferry, all offering regular services. These ferries connect Singapore (HarbourFront and Tanah Merah) to Batam's various terminals. Services also connect Batam to Johor Bahru, Malaysia, providing another regional link. River transit selections are not applicable for tourist travel in Batam; the focus is on sea-based ferry services.
Upon arrival, continue to the immigration counter. Present your passport, visa (if necessary), and return ticket. Officials may take fingerprints and a photo.
Ensure your passport receives a clear entry stamp indicating your allowed duration of stay. Verify the dates immediately.
All main ferry ports offer taxi stands, Grab/GoJek pick-up points. Many resorts also offer pre-arranged shuttle services.
Typically, no specific exit fees or taxes are charged for ferry departures from Batam. If you depart by air from Hang Nadim International Airport, any airport tax is usually included in your airline ticket price.
For the ferry departure times, schedule your arrival for where the ferry leaves from at least 60-90 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for confirming in at your boat operator's counter, clearing immigration, and proceeding to the boarding gate without rushing. During peak seasons or holidays, arriving even earlier is a good idea.
Batam's ferry docks offer basic facilities for departing travelers, including waiting areas, small shops, cafes, restrooms, plus few currency exchange services.
Hang Nadim Airport's domestic departure hall provides a greater variety of services, including a range of food outlets, shops, and waiting areas.
Ensure all your travel documents are in order for your onward journey or return trip. Check-in for flights or ferries in advance if possible to save time at the terminal. If you purchased duty-free items, keep your receipts handy, as customs officials might ask to see them.
Verify schedules, arrive punctually, and have all keep your papers accessible.
