How to get to Balikpapan

When planning to visit Balikpapan, it is important to know that this bustling port city is located on the east coast of the island of Kalimantan in Indonesia. As a major economic hub and the gateway to the region, it offers travellers various arrival methods, including regular flights, maritime connections, and a developed network of bus and car routes.

The main aerial gateway for travellers is Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport (BPN), often referred to by its old name, Sepinggan. It is a modern and spacious hub that consistently receives high ratings for service quality and comfort, including excellent facilities for passengers. The airport receives numerous daily flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, and other major hubs of the archipelago, ensuring stable and convenient connections.

The terminal is very conveniently located: the trip to the city centre takes minimal time, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of your journey without long transfers. If for some reason a direct flight is unavailable, you can consider arriving in neighbouring Samarinda, located approximately 100 kilometres to the north. However, given the developed infrastructure and logistics, Balikpapan's main airport remains the most practical choice for tourists.

Currently, it is not possible to reach Balikpapan by train, as there is no railway infrastructure for passenger transport in the city or its surroundings. Unlike the densely populated island of Java, this mode of transport is not developed on Kalimantan and is not used by tourists.

Rail travel is not available even from neighbouring Samarinda or other nearby settlements, as the cities are not connected by rail tracks. For overland travel in this region, people usually choose comfortable buses or car transfers.

Travelling by bus across Kalimantan offers a unique opportunity to view the island's picturesque landscapes from your window. The most popular and comfortable route connects the city with neighbouring Samarinda, located just 100 kilometres to the north. Thanks to a modern toll highway, travel time has been significantly reduced and now takes about two hours, making this trip quick and untiring.

For more adventurous travellers, there are long-distance routes from settlements such as Tamiang Layang or Kotabaru. These routes require endurance, as the journey can take from 10 to 15 hours, covering hundreds of kilometres through dense tropical terrain. Despite the duration, such trips allow for a deeper immersion into the region's atmosphere; however, it is recommended to book tickets for these destinations in advance.

A journey by car to Balikpapan most often begins from neighbouring Samarinda. Thanks to the modern toll highway—the first on the island of Kalimantan—the 100-kilometre journey can now be covered in just 1.5–2 hours. This is the most comfortable way to reach the city, avoiding heavy traffic on the older public roads.

If you are planning a trip from South Kalimantan, for example from Banjarmasin, be prepared for a real road adventure. Although the distance seems manageable, due to the challenging terrain and winding roads, travel time often reaches 12–14 hours. Such routes require stamina, so many tourists prefer to break the journey into stages with stops for rest.

To move around the region, travellers often choose to rent a car with a driver. This eliminates the need to adapt to the local driving style and allows you to safely enjoy the views of the tropical nature on your way to the coast.

Preparing for a trip to Balikpapan requires attention to details specific to the equatorial climate and local culture. To ensure your visit to this dynamic city in Indonesia goes smoothly, we have compiled the most important recommendations to help you feel confident.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Prefer light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, as it is hot and humid year-round. Be sure to bring a raincoat or a compact umbrella—tropical showers can start suddenly. A light jacket is also useful for visiting shopping malls or cinemas, as air conditioning is often set to full power.
2. Transport: The most convenient and safe way to get around the city is by using mobile taxi apps like Grab or Gojek. City minivans (angkot) are cheaper, but their route system may seem confusing for a tourist, so online services with fixed prices are the best choice.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. Major hotels, restaurants, and malls accept cards, but you will need cash to pay for transport, street food, or souvenirs. It is best to exchange money at official banks or authorised exchange points (Money Changers), avoiding questionable street stalls.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at small street cafes. Given the tropical climate, be sure to use mosquito repellents, especially in the evening or when visiting parks and mangrove forests.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Indonesian (Bahasa). In the business centre and high-end hotels, staff speak English, but it is less common in everyday life. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases ("thank you" — terima kasih); this will help you build rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Indonesians are very polite and value respectful behaviour. Remember an important rule: pass money, accept items, or eat only with your right hand, as the left is traditionally considered "unclean." Also, it is not customary to touch another person's head, even a child's.
7. What to Avoid: Do not raise your voice or show aggression in conflict situations—here, this leads to "loss of face" and will only aggravate the problem. Strictly avoid any contact with narcotic substances, as the laws in this regard are extremely severe and strictly enforced.
8. Gastronomic Tip: Balikpapan is famous for its seafood, which is generally Halal-friendly. Do not miss the opportunity to try the famous crab (Kepiting) in one of the local restaurants—this is the main culinary experience that gourmets travel from all over the country to enjoy.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on exploring the unique nature and atmosphere of East Kalimantan. The city is friendly to guests, and by observing basic norms of politeness, your journey will leave only pleasant memories.