Getting Around the City of a Thousand Rivers
Banjarmasin presents a transport experience unlike most Indonesian cities — the waterways are just as much a part of the network as the roads. Whether you're navigating by river or land, understanding your options will save you time, money, and confusion. Here's a complete breakdown of how to get around.
By Water: The Klotok
The klotok is Banjarmasin's iconic motorized wooden river taxi, and using one is both practical and one of the highlights of visiting the city. Klotoks operate on many of the city's river routes and can be hired privately for sightseeing trips (including dawn trips to the floating markets).
- Fixed routes: Some klotoks follow semi-regular routes along the main rivers, connecting riverbank communities to market areas
- Chartered trips: More commonly, visitors hire a klotok with a driver for a set journey — always negotiate and agree on price before departing
- Best for: Floating market visits, river tours, reaching Pulau Kembang
Tip: Always wear a life jacket if provided, especially if you are not a confident swimmer. River currents can be strong.
By Road: Angkot (City Minibuses)
Angkot (short for angkutan kota) are shared minivans operating fixed routes across Banjarmasin. They are the cheapest way to get around the city and are widely used by locals.
- Identified by color-coded routes
- Flag them down anywhere along the route; tell the driver when you want to stop
- Fares are low and paid directly to the driver or a fare collector
- Routes can be confusing for newcomers — ask locals or guesthouse staff for guidance on which color to take
Ojek and Ojek Online
Ojek (motorcycle taxis) are available throughout the city, either found at designated ojek stands or booked through ride-hailing apps. Gojek and Grab both operate in Banjarmasin and are the most convenient option for most visitors — fares are transparent, shown in-app before you book, and drivers are rated.
- GoRide / GrabBike: Motorcycle taxi — fast and cheap for short distances
- GoCar / GrabCar: Private car — more comfortable, good for families or carrying luggage
Becak (Cycle Rickshaws)
Traditional becak (three-wheeled cycle rickshaws) can still be found in some parts of Banjarmasin, particularly near traditional markets. They are slow but charming for short trips within busy market areas where motorcycles can't easily navigate.
Getting to and from the Airport
Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) is located approximately 25 km from central Banjarmasin in Banjarbaru. Transport options include:
- Taxi (fixed rate): Official airport taxis with set fares — ask at the official taxi counter inside the arrivals hall
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Gojek can be ordered from outside the arrivals area
- Damri bus: Public airport bus service connecting to central Banjarmasin — the most economical option
Intercity Travel from Banjarmasin
| Destination | Best Option | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Banjarbaru | Angkot / Grab | 45–60 min |
| Martapura | Angkot / shared taxi | 60–75 min |
| Kandangan | Long-distance bus | 3–4 hours |
| Palangkaraya | Long-distance bus / flight | 4–5 hrs / 45 min |
| Balikpapan | Flight | ~1 hour |
General Tips
- Download Gojek or Grab before arriving — they work in most parts of the city and remove the need to haggle.
- Cash is still king for angkot, becak, and klotok — carry small denominations.
- Traffic in central Banjarmasin can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) — factor this into your plans.
- River transport is often faster than road transport for north-south city crossings.