Arriving at Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (BPN) in Balikpapan, Indonesia, you’ll find several options to reach the city center and your hotel. The best choice depends on your budget, how much luggage you have, and your preference for speed and comfort. This guide will walk you through the common transport methods, giving you a realistic idea of costs and travel times.
Official taxi stands are generally well-signposted within the arrivals area of the airport. Look for clearly marked booths or designated pickup zones. These are usually managed by the airport authority or a licensed taxi company. It’s a good idea to ask the airport information desk if you’re unsure of the exact location upon arrival. When joining a queue, confirm with the dispatcher that the driver will use the meter. Agreeing on a price beforehand can sometimes avoid misunderstandings, but metered fares are usually the fairest option.
Pre-booked private transfers offer a convenient and reliable option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. These services typically include a driver meeting you inside the arrivals hall, often holding a sign with your name. When booking, confirm the meeting point details and ensure the price is all-inclusive – covering the vehicle, driver, and any airport fees. Prices are usually quoted per vehicle, not per person, and can range from $20 to $40 USD depending on your destination and vehicle type.
Shared shuttle services or minibuses can be a more economical choice, particularly for solo travelers. These operate on fixed routes and schedules, dropping passengers off at various hotels or designated points in the city. However, be prepared for potential delays as you wait for other passengers and make multiple stops. Public buses are also available, offering the most budget-friendly option, but they require navigating the local bus system and may involve walking with your luggage. Travel times on public transport will be significantly longer than taxis or private transfers.
The journey to the city center typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your final destination. During peak hours, expect delays, especially on weekdays. Consider the amount of luggage you have – a larger group with multiple bags will naturally take longer to get settled in a taxi or transfer vehicle.
Popular destinations from Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport include the city center of Balikpapan, nearby hotels, and other towns in East Kalimantan. Travel to these areas will vary in price and time, but the information below provides a general overview.
| Option | Typical Time Range | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | $15 - $30 |
| Private Transfer | 30-60 minutes | $20 - $40 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-90 minutes | $8 - $15 |
| Train/Metro | Not Available | N/A |
| Bus | 60-120+ minutes | $2 - $5 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Official taxi stands are usually located just outside the arrivals hall. Look for signs or ask at the information desk.
Yes, using official airport taxis is generally safe. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price beforehand.
Expect to pay around $15 to $30 USD, depending on traffic and your exact destination.
A private transfer is a pre-booked car with a driver waiting for you at the airport.
Yes, they are typically more expensive, but offer convenience and a fixed price.
Shared shuttles collect multiple passengers and drop them off at different locations, making them slower but cheaper.
No, there is currently no train or metro service connecting the airport to the city.
Buses are the cheapest option, but require navigating the local system and take longer.
The journey usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, but can be longer during rush hour.
While you can't typically pre-book a regular taxi, you can pre-book a private transfer online.
Private transfer companies usually track flights and adjust pickup times accordingly. Check their policy when booking.
US dollars are often accepted, but Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is preferred and will usually get you a better exchange rate.