Pekanbaru Riau, Indonesia Travel Guide
Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (PKU) serves Pekanbaru as the main gateway for air travelers. Domestic airlines operating from PKU include Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, Sriwijaya Air, and Super Air Jet. These airlines offer frequent routes connecting Pekanbaru to major Indonesian cities like Jakarta (CGK), Medan (KNO), Surabaya (SUB), Batam (BTH), Padang (PDG), Yogyakarta (YIA), Bandung (BDO), and Palembang (PLM).
Pekanbaru lacks direct flights from major global hubs outside of Southeast Asia. Travelers from further afield typically connect via Jakarta (CGK), Kl (KUL), or Singapore (SIN). These regional hubs offer extensive international connections, making Pekanbaru accessible with a single layover. Flight availability and prices vary seasonally. Prices are typically higher during peak domestic travel seasons, like Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, New Year, and school holidays. Booking flights in advance is wise for these periods to secure better rates and ensure availability.
PKU offers ATMs, currency exchange, dining options, and shops. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
Official airport taxis, ride-sharing apps (Gojek/Grab), and Trans Metro Pekanbaru buses provide city connections.
Vehicle hire services are available for independent travel from the airport.
Pekanbaru is a major bus hub. Terminal Bandar Raya Payung Sekaki (BRPS) serves as the main inter-city terminal with routes across Sumatra and to Jakarta.
Long-distance bus journeys can be extended (e.g., Pekanbaru to Medan 12-15 hours, Pekanbaru to Padang 7-9 hours).
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a requirement. Car rental agencies are available, with a driver option recommended for unfamiliar roads.
Pekanbaru is situated on the Siak River. It has a river port, mainly used for local cargo and passenger boats serving nearby riverine settlements. Local wooden boats, known as Pompong, are used for short distances along the Siak River for local transport. These provide a traditional way to experience the river and connect to nearby points. International arrivals directly into Pekanbaru’s river port are not applicable for ferry services.
Major ferry connections to Malaysia (Port Klang, Melaka) and Singapore from Sumatra typically depart from the harbors in other Riau cities, like Dumai or Bengkalis, not directly from Pekanbaru. If you plan to travel by international ferry, you will need to first reach one of these other port cities. International ferry ports in other parts of Riau, like Dumai, have standard immigration checkpoints. From local river ports, connections to Pekanbaru city center would involve local taxis, Ojek, or ride-sharing services.
Always wear a life jacket on boats. Follow local operator guidelines and weather advisories.
Carry your passport and visa when traveling by ferry, even domestically, for identification.
From other port cities, reach Pekanbaru using local buses, ride-sharing, or taxis.
No separate exit fees apply at Indonesian airports; these are usually incorporated into your airfare. Plan your arrival time at the airport carefully. For domestic flights, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure. Standard departure procedures include check-in, security screening, and immigration for international flights. Factor in ample time for these steps, especially during peak travel seasons.
Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (PKU) offers check-in counters, security screening, and nice waiting rooms for departing travelers. You find duty-free shops and dining options to use before your flight. Coach terminals also provide waiting areas, small eateries, and bathrooms for those departing by land. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents readily available for a smooth how to depart.
Complete any required customs declaration forms accurately before going through immigration.
Adhere to liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage on flights (100ml containers in a 1-liter bag).
Pack any last-minute purchases in your checked luggage to comply with carry-on limits.
Double-check your passport, boarding pass, and any required travel documents before heading to your gate.
