How to Make the Most of Jakarta’s Public Transport: A Guide for First-Time Visitors - Embrace the Local Experience

Jakarta is a big city, and navigating it can often feel overwhelming. However, the city boasts an amazing public transport system that is diverse, affordable, and offers an exciting way to get around – but only if you know the nitty-gritty. If you’re a first-time visitor to Jakarta, here’s a detailed breakdown of how to get around using public transport.

img via flickr

Transjakarta Bus

What’s the most affordable way to get around? Transjakarta bus! These buses have their own dedicated busways, so traffic isn’t going to be a problem – something you’ll come to appreciate on Jakarta’s often busy roads. These buses run all day, every day, and there are about 250 dedicated routes. Getting on the bus is simple, and you often don’t have to wait in a long line for it to arrive. Just head to the nearest bus stop, and you’ll find a ticket counter. You can buy a card that you can top up with credit. Not only that, these cards can be used for other transport options too, which can be pretty convenient for tourists. Plus, the buses are air-conditioned, offering a break from Jakarta’s oppressive heat. Buses can get a bit crowded during rush hour, but otherwise, it’s quite a pleasant ride.To make things even more convenient, stay at a hotel located close to bus stops and other transport links. You have several options, including Citadines Gatot Subroto Jakarta, a popular choice for those looking for a 3-bedroom serviced apartment in Jakarta.

Commuter Train

Want to go beyond Jakarta? You have the commuter train, called KRL. The KRL connects Jakarta with neighbouring cities like Depok, Bogor, and Bekasi, meaning it’s an excellent option for day trips. As for tickets, you can easily buy one at the station – you can either get a single trip ticket or use the same Transjakarta card for the KRL as well. Trains run regularly, and they’re more or less punctual. Here’s a bonus: you get to see a bit of the city’s outskirts while on the move. Just like with the buses, try to avoid rush hour.

MRT Train

The MRT is a fairly new addition, and it’s as modern as you’d expect. Stations are spacious and clean, and the carriages follow suit with air conditioning and comfortable seating. For now, the MRT only has one line, and it cuts through the busiest parts of the city. The system is still being developed, so in the coming years, you can expect the MRT to be even more modern and cutting-edge. The MRT is your best option if you want comfort, speed, and cleanliness. Yes, you can buy tickets at the station or from machines, and you can also use that top-up card for the MRT.

Mikrotrans

Now, this one is quite unique to Jakarta. These are small minibuses, and they’re quite affordable and a bit quirky – tourists love getting around by Mikrotrans for the experience alone. They’re so small and cutesy that you can easily spot them, and they practically stop anywhere to pick up and drop off passengers. Don’t expect these minibuses to be as comfortable as the MRT, though. However, what they lack in comfort, they make up for in efficiency. They run along fixed routes, and you can flag one down whenever you see one. Plus, you get to experience a bit of local life. It’s adventurous and exciting, so even if you don’t need to go anywhere, taking a minibus ride is totally worth the experience.

Ride-Sharing Apps 

Uber no longer operates in Indonesia, but the country has two alternatives that are just as good, if not better. What are these magic beans? Gojek and Grab. If it’s your first time in Jakarta and you don’t have time to navigate the city by public transport, these ride-sharing apps can be a lifesaver. Plus, they’re safe – you can see who the driver is upfront, know how much the ride will cost, and you don’t have to pay with cash.