MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Depok

Getting Around Depok

Depok West Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Depok's public transit system has various options, with the KRL Commuterline standing out for its efficiency in connecting Depok with Jakarta northward and Bogor to the south. This electric commuter rail service often is the fastest way to travel between these cities, bypassing road traffic. Depok features multiple KRL stations, including Depok Baru, Depok, Pondok Cina, and Universitas Indonesia, making it quite accessible for residents and visitors alike.

Angkot (Angkutan Kota) are small minibuses operating on fixed routes. These vehicles are common and prove useful for local transportation within Depok and to nearby areas. Angkots do not have fixed stops; travelers hail them anywhere along their route and inform the driver of their destination to alight. Routes can be confusing for first-timers, as they lack clear markings, often necessitating local guidance. TransJakarta (Bus Rapid Transit) mainly serves Jakarta, with limited widespread routes directly within Depok. However, TransJakarta buses connect to areas in Jakarta easily reachable from Depok by KRL, expanding access to the capital's network.

Transit Systems

  • KRL Commuterline: Electric rail connecting Depok to Jakarta and Bogor, efficient and affordable.
  • Angkot (Minibus): Local small minibuses for intra-city travel, hailed anywhere along routes.
  • TransJakarta: Bus Rapid Transit network, mostly within Jakarta but accessible from Depok via KRL connections.
  • Route Maps: KRL maps are online and at depots; Angkot maps are rare, rely on local advice.

Ticketing KRL/TransJakarta

Use Multi-Trip Cards (KMT) or electronic money cards; cash payment not an option for TransJakarta.

Fares

KRL fares are distance-based (IDR 3,000-6,000); Angkot cash fares (IDR 4,000-7,000).

Hours & Frequency

KRL runs ~04:00-00:00 (high frequency during peak hours); Angkot early morning to late evening.

Accessibility and Navigation Tips

Accessibility
  • KRL: Stations may feature stairs, some with elevators/escalators. Crowds can create access challenging.
  • Angkot: Not wheelchair accessible, requires stepping into the vehicle.
  • TransJakarta: Some buses and stations are designed with accessibility, but the structure is not fully accessible.
Navigation Tips
  • Google Maps: Useful for KRL routes and estimated travel times.
  • Ask Locals: For Angkot routes, consult locals or hotel staff for specific directions.
  • Avoid Peak Hours: Steer clear of KRL peak commute hours (07:00-09:00 and ONE6:00-19:00).

Ticketing Quick Reference

KRL Cards

Multi-Trip Cards (KMT)

E-Money

Flazz, e-Money, Brizzi, TapCash

Angkot Payment

Cash directly to driver

Top-up

At KRL stations, convenience stores

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps have convenient and often faster ways to travel locally in Depok, especially for direct routes or when carrying luggage. They present a good alternative to public transport. These options are highly useful for quick, point-to-point journeys.

Licensed Taxi Services

  • Blue Bird Group: Most reputable, light blue cars, fares based on a meter, reliable service.
  • Hailing: On streets (Margonda Raya), at designated stands (malls, hotels, stations), or via mobile app.
  • Fares: Metered, flag fall ~IDR 7,000-8,000, ~IDR 5,000-6,000 per km. Payment mostly cash, some accept cards.
  • Avoid: Unmarked or unmetered taxis for safety.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Gojek & Grab: Dominant apps in Indonesia, highly recommended for convenience, transparent pricing, safety.
  • Gojek/Grab (Motorcycle Taxi): Quickest for single riders, affordable, useful in traffic.
  • GoCar/GrabCar (Car Taxi): For groups or when a car is preferred.
  • Additional Services: Both apps offer food delivery (GoFood, GrabFood), package delivery, and more.

Safety and Airport/Station Arrangements

  • Licensed Taxis: Use reputable companies like Blue Bird for metered pricing and tracked journeys.
  • Ride-Sharing: Confirm driver's details, vehicle, and license plate match the app before entering. Share trip details.
  • Payment: In-app payment or cash options are usually available.
  • Airports: Dedicated taxi stands and ride-sharing pick-up points at Jakarta airports (CGK, HLP).
  • KRL Stations: Taxis and ride-sharing drivers typically wait near major Depok KRL stations.
  • Avoid Unmetered: Never use unmetered taxis or those without clear branding.

Ride-Sharing Efficiency

Transparency

Upfront pricing, no haggling.

Convenience

Book from anywhere via app.

Safety Features

SATELLITE tracking, trip sharing.

Rental Options

While car and motorcycle rentals are available, traffic conditions in Depok and Jakarta present difficulties. Consider carefully if self-driving suits your comfort level. Renting hiring a car and driver is frequently recommended.

Car Rental

  • Availability: Major international (DiscoverCars.com) and local companies, typically at Jakarta airports or central Jakarta.
  • Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) with valid home license, passport, credit card for deposit.
  • Recommendation: Car with a driver is often a more relaxed and practical option for tourists owing to tough conditions.
  • Driving: Expect heavy traffic, aggressive local driving styles, less adherence to lane discipline.

Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals

  • Availability: Less common in Depok city center as a dedicated tourist service compared to Bali. Some boutique local shops might offer rentals.
  • Caution: Driving a scooter in Depok's chaotic traffic demands significant skill, confidence, and extreme care. Accidents occur. Helmets are legally mandatory.
  • Traffic Rules: Often loosely followed, making it important to be constantly aware.
  • Recommendation: Not for inexperienced riders in dense urban traffic.

Bicycle Sharing & Specialty Vehicles

Bicycle Rentals

Depok lacks a widespread formal bicycle sharing program. Some hotels or local people shops (near UI campus) may offer rentals.

Limited cycling infrastructure. Best for UI campus or quiet residential areas.

Driving Laws & Roads

Drive on the left. Helmets mandatory for motorcyclists. Traffic laws exist but enforcement varies. Main roads paved but congested; smaller roads may have potholes.

Defensive driving essential. Parking challenging in busy areas.

Specialty Vehicles

Depok does not present unique unique vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys. The Angkot (minibus) is the most proximate equivalent to a shared, local vehicle.

No cable cars, funiculars, or water taxis.

Driving Laws and Parking

Driving Regulations
  • Driving Side: Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Helmets: Mandatory for motorcyclists and their passengers.
  • Traffic Laws: Laws exist, but enforcement and adherence can be inconsistent. Be ready for aggressive driving.
Roads and Parking
  • Road Conditions: Main roads are generally paved but can be congested. Smaller residential roads may have potholes.
  • Parking: Can be difficult in busy areas like Margonda Raya and shopping malls. Public parking is limited.
  • Pedestrian Safety: Sidewalks are often uneven, obstructed, or non-existent.

Rental Caution

  • Self-driving in Depok's traffic is only for experienced drivers.
  • Motorcycle rental is less common and potentially unsafe for tourists.
  • Always verify requirements like IDP before considering a rental.
  • A car with a driver bypasses significant navigational and safety worries.
  • Be extra cautious as a pedestrian due to limited and often obstructed sidewalks.
  • Avoid walking or cycling on major roads during peak traffic hours.
  • The University of Indonesia campus provides the safest and most pleasant environment for walking and cycling.
  • Nighttime safety requires extra vigilance in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Walking & Cycling

Map out routes with care, especially in high-traffic areas. The Educational institution of Indonesia campus offers more pedestrian-friendly zones.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Basic Facilities: Sidewalks are often uneven, obstructed, or non-existent in many locations.
  • University of Indonesia (UI) Campus: Expansive, wide paths, green spaces, lakes. Ideal for walking, jogging.
  • Shopping Malls: Margo City and Depok Town Square offer climate-controlled, safe walking environments.
  • Residential Areas: Quieter neighborhoods offer more relaxed walking, but paths may still be uneven.

Walking Tours & Cycling Safety

  • Walking Tour Options: Guided tours are not common. Self-guided walks within the UI Campus or Depok Lama are possible.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Minimal dedicated cycling lanes.
  • Safety While cycling: Not recommended on main roads due to heavy, chaotic traffic. Safest within UI campus or quiet residential areas.
  • No-Go Areas: Avoid major arterial roads (e.g., Margonda Raya) during rush hours for strolling or riding a bike. Be careful in poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Not typically available for transport within Depok. Available for day trips or longer outings from Depok or Jakarta to other regions.

  • Usually organized by tour operators.
  • For inter-city travel, not local.
  • No hop-on-hop-off services.
Water Transport

Not applicable for Depok. As an inland city, Depok lacks boat taxis, ferries, or water transportation services. Its lakes are mainly for recreation.

  • No seaports or rivers for transport.
  • Lakes are recreational, not for commuting.
  • No boat taxis or ferry services.
Unique Local Transport

Depok does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like those in more mountainous or tourist-centric regions.

  • No tuk-tuks or jeepneys.
  • Angkot minicoaches are the closest equivalent.
  • Standard options dominate.

Accessibility Services for Mobility Needs

Public Transport Limitations
  • Limited public infrastructure for mobility challenges in KRL and Angkot.
  • Stairs are common; spaces can be crowded on public transit.
  • TransJakarta has some accessibility features, but not full system-wide access.
Private Transport Options
  • Private taxis or ride-sharing (GrabCar, GoCar) offer the most flexibility.
  • Specific accessible vehicles (e.g., wheelchair-equipped vans) are rare; advance booking from specialized Jakarta providers is necessary.
  • Planning: Travelers with mobility needs should plan movements carefully and organize private transport.

Final Transit Advice

A well-planned approach to transportation makes navigating Depok both efficient and enjoyable. Be mindful of peak hours and traffic to optimize travel times.

Navigating Public Transport

  • Use KRL for fast connections to Jakarta and Bogor.
  • Angkots for local, short-distance travel.
  • E-money cards simplify KRL and TransJakarta payments.
  • Consult Google Maps and locals for route clarity.

Maximizing Ride-Sharing

  • Gojek/Grab provide direct, convenient, and safe trips.
  • Motorcycle taxis (Ojek) are quick in traffic.
  • Confirm driver and vehicle details via the app.
  • In-app tracking and trip sharing for added safety.

Efficient KRL

Fastest inter-city travel, bypasses road traffic.

On-Demand Rides

Ride-sharing apps offer convenience and direct trips.

Safe Local Explore

UI Campus for safe walking and cycling.

Additional Transport Considerations

For Mobility Needs
  • Public transit accessibility is limited.
  • Private taxis or ride-sharing are the most flexible options.
  • Plan movements carefully and arrange transport in advance.
Driving & Renting
  • Self-driving is challenging due to heavy traffic and local driving styles.
  • A car with a driver bypasses stress and navigation worries.
  • Motorcycle rentals are less common and present safety concerns for tourists.

Your Depok Journey

Depok provides a blend of urban activity and serene green spaces. With careful planning for transport, your visit promises a rewarding experience.

Embrace the local rhythms, explore the diverse culinary scene, and move with ease using the city's various transit options. Enjoy your time discovering Depok's unique character!