How to get to Samarinda

Samarinda is the vibrant capital of the East Kalimantan province, situated on the banks of the mighty Mahakam River in exotic Indonesia. When planning a trip to Samarinda, many travellers view this city as the gateway to the interior of Borneo and a starting point for exploring the unique Dayak culture. You can get here in various ways: by taking local flights, travelling by car along scenic tropical roads, or choosing an intercity bus.

Air travel is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the capital of East Kalimantan. The city is served by the APT Pranoto International Airport, which receives flights from the country's major transport hubs. This is an excellent choice for those wishing to save time and avoid long journeys across difficult terrain.

Many tourists also choose to fly via the neighbouring major city of Balikpapan, located just 88 km from the destination. Balikpapan's airport often offers a wider network of routes, after which Samarinda can be easily reached by ground transport. Air connections also link the region with the cities of Muara Teweh and Tamiang Layang.

Currently, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Samarinda, as the passenger railway network on the island of Kalimantan is not well developed. Travellers should take this into account when planning their route and focus on other modes of transport, such as planes or buses.

The nearest major settlements are Balikpapan and Muara Teweh; however, even from there, you will need to reach the final destination by road. It is recommended to plan inter-city logistics in advance, using taxis or rental cars.

Although precise data on specific bus schedules is often unavailable in open sources, the bus remains a popular and budget-friendly means of travel across Indonesia. Regular services usually connect the city of Samarinda with neighbouring provinces and major cities on the island, offering a chance to view the local landscapes.

Tourists are strongly advised to check flight availability, ticket prices, and travel times directly at bus terminals upon arrival in the region. Travelling by bus can be a great way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of everyday life for the residents of Kalimantan.

Travelling by car is an excellent way to reach the city while managing your travel time independently. The most popular and fastest route runs from the city of Balikpapan: the distance is about 108 km, which will take approximately 2 hours thanks to the availability of a toll express road.

For those departing from more distant points, the journey will take significantly longer. For example, the road from the city of Tamiang Layang, covering a distance of about 419 km, will require nearly 9 hours behind the wheel. An even longer journey awaits from Muara Teweh: to cover the distance of 460 km, you will have to spend about 11.5 hours on the road.

To ensure your trip to the capital of East Kalimantan is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth preparing for local realities in advance. Here are some practical recommendations for travellers:

1. Clothing and Climate. The city has a humid tropical climate, so choose loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella, as sudden downpours are not uncommon here.
2. Transport. To get around the city, it is most convenient to use taxis or popular ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek). Local minibuses are cheap, but their routes can be complicated for a tourist.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cards are accepted in hotels and shopping centres, but for markets and small cafes, be sure to have a supply of cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Health. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street establishments. It is recommended to use repellents, as mosquitoes can carry tropical fevers.
5. Communication. The main language is Indonesian. English may be understood in tourist areas, but knowing a couple of phrases in the local language, such as "Terima kasih" (Thank you), will greatly facilitate communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Indonesia is a country of traditions. Remove your shoes when entering homes and mosques. Pass food and items only with your right hand, as the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid. Do not wear clothing that is too revealing away from tourist zones and avoid public displays of affection—this may be perceived as a lack of respect.
8. Souvenirs. Pay attention to the local textile—"Sarong Samarinda". This is a unique hand-woven fabric that will be a great memento of your trip.

Following these simple rules will help you adapt faster and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city on the Mahakam River.