How to get to Putussibau

Located in the very heart of the West Kalimantan province, Putussibau serves as the main gateway to the upper reaches of the mighty Kapuas River and the national parks of Borneo. This remote town attracts adventure seekers with its authentic atmosphere and the opportunity to experience untouched wildlife, offering a unique journey away from standard tourist routes.

Getting to Putussibau is part of the adventure itself, as the town is situated deep within the island. The primary connection to the outside world is via air travel; however, travelers can also utilize overland routes through the jungle or river transport to witness the real Indonesia.

The fastest and most reliable way to reach this region is by air transport. The town is served by Putussibau Airport (PSU), which receives regular flights from the provincial capital, ensuring a vital link with civilization.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into airports in neighboring Malaysia, such as Sibu or Sarikei, located approximately 200 kilometers away in a straight line. However, it is worth noting that choosing these airports will require a subsequent border crossing and a lengthy overland transfer.

Railway connections to the town of Putussibau are completely absent, as the difficult terrain and dense jungles of Borneo do not support the development of this mode of transport. There are no operating railways in this region of Indonesia.

The nearest major cities, such as Sibu and Sarikei, also do not have railway stations. Tourists planning a trip are advised to rely exclusively on flights, buses, or rental cars.

Bus service is the main budget-friendly way to reach the town by land, connecting Putussibau with the administrative center, Pontianak, and other settlements in the province. Trips usually depart daily, however, the journey can be quite long due to vast distances and landscape features.

Traveling by bus allows you to enjoy the scenic views of the tropical rainforests for which Indonesia is famous. It is recommended to choose buses from reliable operators and check schedules at local bus stations, as travel time may vary depending on weather conditions and road status.

Driving a car to Putussibau requires driving experience and readiness for challenging road conditions. The route from the Malaysian city of Sibu is about 400 km, but due to border formalities and road quality, the travel time may significantly exceed the estimated 6–8 hours.

Similarly, the journey from the city of Sarikei, covering about 352 km, will take at least 6 hours of pure driving. Roads often pass through winding jungle sections, so for a comfortable journey, it is better to rent an SUV and drive during daylight hours.

Traveling to the heart of Kalimantan requires careful preparation so that the remoteness of the region becomes an advantage rather than a problem. Here are some tips for a comfortable stay in the town of Putussibau.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid year-round. Bring light cotton clothing, comfortable closed shoes for forest walks, and definitely a raincoat — downpours happen often and suddenly.
2. Transport. Public transport within the town is not widely developed. To get around, it is most convenient to hire a motorcycle taxi (ojek) or rent a boat for river trips.
3. Finances. Be sure to carry a supply of cash in Indonesian Rupiah. ATMs exist, but they may not work or accept foreign cards, and cashless payment is unavailable in small shops.
4. Health and Safety. Stock up on high-quality repellents, as mosquitoes can carry tropical diseases. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes.
5. Communication. English is not widely spoken by locals. Download an offline translator or learn a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia — this will greatly facilitate communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Indonesians are very welcoming. Dress modestly, do not point at people with your finger, and pass money or items only with your right hand.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan a tight travel schedule. In this region, transport delays due to weather or road conditions are common.
8. Extra Tip. Try the local freshwater fish — it is the staple of the region's cuisine. Fish dishes here are incredibly fresh and prepared according to unique Dayak recipes.

By following these recommendations, you can safely enjoy the wild beauty of Borneo and the hospitality of the local people.