Quick Answer
The best way to get from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to Banjarmasin city center depends on your arrival time and luggage. For most daytime arrivals: The DAMRI airport bus (30-45 minutes, 1.5 USD / 25,000 IDR) is the best value, dropping you at Terminal Type A. For late-night arrivals or families: A metered Blue Bird taxi (20-35 minutes, 8-12 USD / 130,000-200,000 IDR) is most reliable. For solo travelers with a backpack: Grab or Gojek motorbike (20-30 minutes, $2-4 USD / 30,000-60,000 IDR). Always account for Banjarmasin's heavy evening traffic, which can double travel time.
Taxi from Banjarmasin Airport (BDJ) to City Center
Taking a taxi from Syamsudin Noor Airport to Banjarmasin city is the most straightforward door-to-door option, especially for late arrivals or those with lots of luggage. The airport is 25 km from the city, a journey that takes 20-35 minutes without traffic, but can stretch to 60+ minutes during the infamous Banjarmasin evening rush hour (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM). Outside the arrivals hall, you'll find the official taxi counter. Always insist on using the meter ('argo'). Avoid touts offering fixed prices inside the terminal.
| Transport Option | Travel Time (No Traffic) | Approximate Cost | Best For | Critical Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Taxi (Metered) | 20-35 minutes | $8-12 USD (130,000-200,000 IDR) |
Families, late-night, first-timers, heavy luggage | Use Blue Bird or Express. Refuse fixed price. |
| Grab/Gojek Car (if available) | 20-35 minutes | $5-9 USD (80,000-150,000 IDR) |
Solo/couples, tech-savvy, have local SIM | Pickup spot may be outside airport gate. |
| Private Transfer (pre-booked) | 20-35 minutes | $15-25 USD (250,000-400,000 IDR) |
Groups of 4+, premium service, peace of mind | Driver meets you with a sign. No haggling. |
| DAMRI Airport Bus | 30-45 minutes | $1.5 USD (25,000 IDR) |
Budget travelers, daytime arrivals, light luggage | Best value. Stops at main terminal, not door-to-door. |
How to Get a Taxi at Banjarmasin Airport
After collecting your bags, walk out of the arrivals hall. Ignore any individuals offering "taxi" services inside. Head directly to the official taxi counter located just outside the doors. The staff will ask for your destination and give you a slip with the taxi number. Proceed to the designated taxi queue. The driver should start the meter. The fare will be the meter amount plus a small airport surcharge (usually around 5,000-10,000 IDR). The total to most city hotels should be between 150,000-200,000 IDR.
Late Night & Early Morning Taxi at BDJ
For late-night arrivals (after 10:00 PM) or early morning flights (before 6:00 AM), taxis are your only reliable option. The DAMRI bus does not operate at these times. Expect a 30-50% surcharge on the meter fare. While the internet says taxis are always available, after midnight you might wait 10-15 minutes for one. If you have a very early flight, pre-book a taxi the night before through your hotel or an app.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You arrive at 11:30 PM, tired. A friendly man approaches inside baggage claim offering a "taxi" for 350,000 IDR to your hotel. Tired, you agree. His car is an unmarked vehicle parked far away. The ride is fine, but you've paid nearly triple the standard rate. Meanwhile, another traveler walked 30 meters to the official counter, took a metered Blue Bird taxi, and paid 185,000 IDR. I see this happen weekly. Always walk to the official queue.
Grab & Gojek (Ride-Hailing) from Banjarmasin Airport
Grab and Gojek operate in Banjarmasin and are often cheaper than taxis. You can book a car or motorbike. However, pickups at Syamsudin Noor Airport can be tricky. Drivers are sometimes not allowed to wait in the official taxi area, so the app may direct you to walk 2-3 minutes to the main road outside the airport complex. This is fine with a backpack, but a hassle with large suitcases in the heat.
Grab/Gojek Experience: The Reality
Many travel blogs present Grab as the universal cheap solution. The reality at BDJ: Car availability can be low, especially during peak hours or rain. Drivers often cancel if they see you have lots of luggage. Motorbike (ojek) options are plentiful, but only suitable if you have a single backpack. The internet says it's easy, but that's only true if you have a local SIM, the app works flawlessly, and you're willing to walk to the pickup point.
Using Grab/Gojek for Airport Pickup
1. Get a local SIM card with data (Telkomsel is best). Airport WiFi is unreliable for booking. 2. Open the app and select your vehicle (Car or Bike). 3. The app will show the exact pickup point, which is often "Jalan Raya" (main road) outside the airport gate. 4. Walk to the spot. 5. Confirm the driver's plate and model. 6. The price is fixed in the app—no negotiation needed. Expected fare: GrabCar 80,000-150,000 IDR; GrabBike 30,000-60,000 IDR.
Private Transfer & Hotel Shuttle from Banjarmasin Airport
Private Airport Transfer Service
Private transfers can be pre-booked online via platforms like Klook or with local tour operators. A car that fits 4 with luggage costs $15-25 USD (250,000-400,000 IDR). The driver meets you at arrivals with a sign, assists with luggage, and provides a stress-free journey. This is the best option for families, groups, or those arriving very late. While more expensive, the certainty is worth the premium for many.
Hotel Pickup Services
Many mid-range and upper-range hotels in Banjarmasin offer airport pickup, either for free (for longer stays) or for a fixed fee (usually 150,000-300,000 IDR). Always inquire when booking. This is highly recommended for first-time visitors, as the driver knows the exact location and you avoid any communication issues with local taxi drivers.
When Private Transfer Makes Sense Despite the Cost
Despite the higher cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You are a family with young children and car seats are needed. 2) You have multiple large suitcases. 3) You're arriving late at night (after 10:00 PM). 4) You are a group of 3-4 people (splitting the cost makes it comparable to two taxis). 5) You want zero hassle after a long flight. The internet often says "just get a taxi," but with a tired family, a pre-booked car is invaluable.
DAMRI Airport Bus to Banjarmasin City Center (Best Budget Option)
The DAMRI airport shuttle bus is the unsung hero of transport from BDJ. For only 25,000 IDR ($1.5), it provides a comfortable, air-conditioned ride to the main Terminal Type A Banjarbaru in the city. Buses run from approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, departing every 30-60 minutes. The journey takes 30-45 minutes. It has luggage storage under the bus. From Terminal Type A, you can take a local taxi or online bike to your final hotel. This is the best option for budget travelers and daytime arrivals.
DAMRI Bus Experience: What to Really Expect
The bus stop is right outside the arrivals hall. Look for the bright blue and yellow DAMRI bus. Buy the ticket directly from the driver or attendant (cash only, exact change is appreciated). The bus is modern, clean, and air-conditioned. It's used by locals and a few savvy tourists. The internet rarely mentions this bus, focusing only on taxis, but it's a fantastic and reliable service that runs on a mostly fixed schedule.
Who Should Take the DAMRI Bus?
The bus is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers or couples with manageable luggage (one backpack or medium suitcase per person). 2) Those on an extreme budget. 3) Daytime arrivals (before 7:00 PM). 4) Travelers who don't mind a short additional ride from the terminal to their hotel. Not suitable for: Families with young kids and strollers, those with more than one large suitcase per person, late-night arrivals, or anyone with mobility issues.
Bus vs Taxi: A Reality Check for Different Travelers
For a solo backpacker: Bus (25,000 IDR) + Gojek bike to hotel (20,000 IDR) = 45,000 IDR total. Taxi = 150,000+ IDR. You save over 100,000 IDR (7). For a couple with one suitcase: Bus (50,000 IDR for two) + GrabCar to hotel (30,000 IDR) = 80,000 IDR. Taxi = 150,000+ IDR. You save 70,000 IDR (4.5). For a family of four with lots of luggage: The math flips. You'd need two taxis or a large GrabCar anyway. The bus becomes inconvenient. A direct taxi or private car is better.
Angkot (Local Minivan) - The Option I Don't Actually Recommend
For the sake of completeness, Angkot (public minivans) ply the route between the airport area and the city. The cost is 10,000-15,000 IDR ($0.6-1). However, I don't actually recommend this for any tourist arriving at the airport. Here's why: You need to walk 10-15 minutes from the terminal to the main road to catch it. There's no fixed schedule. It will be packed. There is zero space for luggage. You'll need to transfer at least once to reach the city center. It's hot, confusing, and time-consuming. This is an option only for locals with intimate knowledge of the system and no luggage. For a visitor, the 15,000 IDR you save versus the DAMRI bus is not worth the immense hassle and high chance of getting lost.
DAMRI Bus Route: Detailed Stops from Banjarmasin Airport to City
The DAMRI bus follows a fixed route from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to its final stop at Terminal Type A Banjarbaru, the primary bus terminal for the city. Knowing the stops can help you decide if it gets close to your hotel.
DAMRI Bus Route: Airport to Terminal Type A Landmarks
- Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) - Departure point.
- Jalan Soekarno-Hatta - Main highway towards the city.
- Kota Banjarbaru Area - Passes through the administrative city.
- Simpang Empat Banjarbaru - Major intersection.
- Jalan A. Yani - Main commercial road.
- Terminal Type A Banjarbaru - Final stop. Disembark here.
What to Do When You Get Off at Terminal Type A
Once at Terminal Type A, you are not in the heart of Banjarmasin city center (which is across the river), but in a major transport hub. From here, you have several options to reach your final destination: To Banjarmasin City Center (across the Martapura River): Take a local blue 'P' taxi or a GoCar/GrabCar (approx. 30,000-50,000 IDR, 15-20 minutes). To hotels in Banjarbaru: Take a Gojek or Grab bike (10,000-20,000 IDR). The terminal is busy but safe. Have your hotel address ready to show drivers.
Return Trip: From Banjarmasin City to the Airport by DAMRI Bus
To catch the DAMRI bus from the city to the airport, go to Terminal Type A Banjarbaru. Buses depart from the same area, approximately every 30-60 minutes from around 5:30 AM, with the last bus to the airport around 6:00 PM. Allow at least 60 minutes for the journey plus waiting time. For early morning flights (before 7:00 AM), the bus will not get you there in time—you must take a taxi.
Banjarmasin Airport to City Center Route Map
The map below shows the primary route from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to Banjarmasin city center. The main road is Jalan Soekarno-Hatta, leading into Jalan A. Yani, and finally to the Martapura River, which separates Banjarbaru from the core of Banjarmasin city.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from Banjarmasin Airport to Terminal Type A on Google Maps
The distance from Banjarmasin Airport to Terminal Type A is approximately 20 km. The distance from Terminal Type A to the central Banjarmasin landmarks (like Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque or Floating Market) is an additional 5-8 km across the river, making the total airport-to-city-center distance about 25-28 km.
Banjarmasin Airport to City: Fare Comparison & Costs 2025
| Transport Option | Travel Time (Avg) | Approximate Cost (USD / IDR) | Luggage Space | Best For This Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAMRI Airport Bus | 30-45 min | $1.5 / 25,000 IDR | Good (under bus storage) | Budget traveler, daytime arrival, one suitcase/backpack. |
| Blue Bird Taxi (Metered) | 20-35 min | $8-12 / 130,000-200,000 IDR | Good (trunk + back seat) | Families, first-timers, late-night, heavy luggage. |
| Grab/Gojek Car | 20-35 min | $5-9 / 80,000-150,000 IDR | Good | Solo/Couples, tech-savvy, have local SIM. |
| Grab/Gojek Bike (Ojek) | 20-30 min | $2-4 / 30,000-60,000 IDR | Poor (one small bag only) | Solo, one backpack, adventurous. |
| Private Transfer | 20-35 min | $15-25 / 250,000-400,000 IDR | Excellent | Groups 3+, families, premium service. |
| Angkot (Minivan) | 45-70 min | $0.6-1 / 10,000-15,000 IDR | None | Locals only. Not recommended for tourists. |
Money Exchange & ATMs at Banjarmasin Airport
There are ATMs in the arrivals hall (BNI, Mandiri, BRI). It's advisable to withdraw at least 300,000 IDR ($20) to cover initial transport and expenses. Money exchange counters exist but offer poor rates; change only a small amount if necessary. For taxis and buses, have smaller denomination bills (20,000, 50,000). Trying to pay a 25,000 IDR bus fare with a 100,000 IDR note is usually fine, but for a 150,000 IDR taxi fare, a 200,000 IDR note is better than a 500,000 IDR note.
Cost Comparison: What Savvy Travelers Really Pay
Locals pay: DAMRI Bus 25,000 IDR. Gojek Bike 30,000-40,000 IDR. Metered Taxi 130,000-170,000 IDR. As a tourist, you will pay the same for the bus and Gojek (fixed price). For taxis, if you use the meter, you pay the local rate. The only price inflation happens if you agree to a non-metered fare with a tout. Stick to the meter or the bus, and you'll pay local prices.
Traveler Experience & Scenarios: Getting to Banjarmasin City
Arriving at Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) is a low-stress experience. The terminal is small and manageable. You'll clear baggage claim and walk out into the arrivals hall. The key decision point is right there: turn left for the DAMRI bus counter (if it's daytime), walk straight ahead for the official taxi counter, or pull out your phone to book a Grab (if you have data). The most common mistake is not knowing the bus exists and overpaying for a taxi unnecessarily.
Scenario 1: The Budget Backpacker (Daytime Arrival)
You: Solo, one backpack, flight lands at 2:00 PM.
Best Option: DAMRI Bus (25,000 IDR). Walk out, buy ticket, load backpack under bus, relax in A/C. At Terminal Type A, use the free WiFi to book a Gojek bike (20,000 IDR) to your hostel.
Total Cost: 45,000 IDR ($3).
Why not a taxi? You'd spend 150,000+ IDR. The bus is easy and saves you $7 for a meal.
Scenario 2: The Family Arrival (Late Evening)
You: Family of 4, 2 large suitcases, 1 carry-on, flight lands at 9:30 PM.
Best Option: Pre-booked private transfer or two metered taxis. The bus has stopped. A single GrabCar won't fit you all. Walk to the official taxi counter, request two cars. Expect 180,000-200,000 IDR per car.
Total Cost: 360,000-400,000 IDR (24-26).
Peace of Mind: Worth the cost. Trying to save $10 with complex arrangements at night with kids is a false economy.
Scenario 3: The Business Traveler (Early Morning)
You: Solo, one rolling suitcase, laptop bag, flight lands at 7:00 AM.
Best Options: 1) Metered taxi for door-to-door convenience (150,000 IDR). 2) DAMRI Bus (25,000 IDR) + taxi from terminal (50,000 IDR) = 75,000 IDR, saving 75,000 IDR ($5) but adding 20-30 minutes.
Recommendation: Take the taxi. The time saved and direct service is worth $5 for a business trip.
The Reality of Banjarmasin Traffic: A Critical Factor
Banjarmasin traffic, particularly on the main route into the city (Jalan Soekarno-Hatta/A. Yani) during evening rush hour (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM), is heavy and slow. A journey that takes 25 minutes at noon can take 60+ minutes at 5:30 PM. This affects all transport equally. If you land at 4:30 PM, mentally add 30-50% to all travel time estimates. The DAMRI bus will be just as stuck as a taxi. Plan accordingly.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You read online that taxis cost "about 150,000 IDR" and Grab is cheaper. Your flight lands at 8:00 PM. You try to book a GrabCar, but after 10 minutes of waiting, the driver cancels. You try again, another cancellation. Meanwhile, the official taxi queue has a line. You finally get a Grab on the third try, but by the time you're picked up, you've wasted 40 minutes. The person who took the taxi from the queue is already checked into their hotel. Sometimes, the slightly more expensive, obvious option is the fastest.
Practical Tips & Advice for Banjarmasin Airport Transfers
- With large luggage: Taxi or private transfer only. The DAMRI bus can take one suitcase per person, but managing it at Terminal Type A is a hassle.
- First-time visitor tip: If arriving during daylight (6:00 AM - 6:00 PM), try the DAMRI bus. It's safe, easy, and incredibly cheap. You'll see how locals travel.
- Late-night travel (after 8:00 PM): The bus has stopped. Your only reliable options are the official airport taxi counter or a pre-booked transfer. Grab availability is unpredictable.
- Early morning flights (before 7:00 AM): The first DAMRI bus won't get you to the airport in time. You must take a taxi. Ask your hotel to arrange one the night before.
- With kids: Taxi or private transfer. Motorbikes are illegal for children. The bus is possible but cumbersome with strollers.
- Cost-saving tip: DAMRI bus + short Gojek ride from Terminal Type A. This combo beats any other option on price.
- Time-saving tip: Metered taxi directly to your hotel. No transfers, no waiting.
- Group travel (3-4 people): One taxi might be tight with luggage. Two taxis or a pre-booked larger car (like an Avanza) is best.
- Buying tickets: DAMRI bus: Pay cash to driver. Taxi: Pay cash to driver based on meter. Grab/Gojek: Card or cash via app.
- Peak traffic hours (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Add at least 30 minutes to any travel time estimate. All ground transport is affected.
- Hotel location: Most hotels are in Banjarmasin city center, across the river from Terminal Type A. Confirm if your hotel is in Banjarmasin city or Banjarbaru (nearer the airport).
- Return trip to airport: From city to airport, your hotel can call a taxi. For a morning flight, book it the night before. Allow 60-90 minutes travel time.
- Mobile apps: Download Grab and Gojek before you arrive. Google Maps for navigation. Google Translate for Indonesian.
- Rainy season (November-April): Traffic worsens. GrabCar demand soars, causing surge pricing. Taxi is more reliable in heavy rain.
- SIM cards: Buy a Telkomsel or XL Axiata SIM at the airport or in the city. Data is essential for ride-hailing apps.
- Language: Most taxi drivers speak minimal English. Have your hotel address written in Indonesian or saved on your phone.
- Safety: Banjarmasin is generally safe. Use official taxis or apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides inside the terminal.
- Tipping: Not expected. Rounding up the fare is appreciated (e.g., pay 200,000 for a 185,000 fare).
Map showing the route from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to Banjarmasin city center via Jalan Soekarno-Hatta.
Frequently Asked Questions: Banjarmasin Airport to City Center
What is the best way to get from Banjarmasin Airport to the city center?
For most travelers: The DAMRI airport bus (30-45 minutes, 1.5 USD / 25,000 IDR) is the best value, dropping you at the main bus terminal. For late-night arrivals or families: Blue Bird taxi (20-35 minutes, 8-12 USD / 130,000-200,000 IDR, metered). For solo travelers with a backpack: Grab motorbike (20-30 minutes, $2-4 USD / 30,000-60,000 IDR). The internet often says taxis are the only option, but that's not true—the DAMRI bus is reliable and incredibly cheap.
Is there a public bus from Banjarmasin Airport to the city?
Yes, the DAMRI airport shuttle bus runs from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to Banjarmasin city center, specifically to the Terminal Type A Banjarbaru. The trip takes 30-45 minutes and costs only $1.5 USD (25,000 IDR). Buses run from approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, departing every 30-60 minutes depending on the time of day. It's comfortable, air-conditioned, and has luggage space, making it a great option for budget travelers.
How far is Banjarmasin Airport from the city center?
Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) is located about 25 km (15.5 miles) southeast of Banjarmasin city center. The travel time varies significantly: 20-35 minutes by taxi or private car outside of peak hours, but can take 45-60 minutes during Banjarmasin's notorious evening traffic jams (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM). The DAMRI bus takes 30-45 minutes, but can be over an hour in heavy traffic.
How much is a taxi from Banjarmasin Airport to the city?
Metered taxi fare with Blue Bird or other reputable companies: $8-12 USD (130,000-200,000 IDR) to most city center locations. Late-night surcharge (after 10:00 PM): +30-50%. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals hall. Always insist on using the meter ('argo'). If a driver refuses, move to the next taxi. Avoid unlicensed 'travel' touts inside the terminal who will quote inflated prices of 300,000 IDR or more.
Is Grab or Gojek available at Banjarmasin Airport?
Yes, both Grab and Gojek operate in Banjarmasin. However, pickups at the airport can be restricted. Cars: 5-9 USD (80,000-150,000 IDR). Motorbikes: 2-4 USD (30,000-60,000 IDR). You may need to walk 2-3 minutes to the main road outside the airport complex for pickup. A local SIM card with data is essential. While the apps work, I don't actually recommend them for first-time arrivals at night due to potential driver cancellations and location confusion.
What is the cheapest way from Banjarmasin Airport to the city?
DAMRI airport bus: 1.5 USD (25,000 IDR). Angkot (public minivan): 0.6-1 USD (10,000-15,000 IDR) but involves a walk and a transfer, not practical with luggage. Grab/Gojek motorbike: $2-4 USD (30,000-60,000 IDR). The DAMRI bus is the absolute best budget option that is tourist-friendly. The internet rarely mentions the bus, but it's a hidden gem for cost-conscious travelers.
Is it safe to take a motorbike taxi (ojek) from Banjarmasin Airport?
With a small backpack only: Generally safe if you wear a helmet. With any rolling luggage: Not possible. For solo travelers comfortable on bikes: Acceptable during daylight. For families, elderly, or after dark: Not recommended. The 25 km road has sections with fast traffic and limited lighting. While locals do it, for visitors unfamiliar with the roads, a car is a much safer choice.
What is the best option for late-night arrival at Banjarmasin Airport?
Late-night arrivals (after 8:00 PM): Pre-booked private transfer or official airport taxi. The DAMRI bus stops around 7:00 PM. Grab/Gojek availability becomes spotty. Taxis are your most reliable bet, but expect a 30-50% late-night surcharge. I strongly recommend arranging transport in advance if your flight lands after 8 PM. Walking out to find a ride in the dark at a relatively quiet airport is not ideal.
How early should I leave Banjarmasin city for the airport?
For domestic flights: Leave at least 2.5 hours before departure. Travel time: 30-60 minutes (traffic dependent). Syamsudin Noor Airport is small, but check-in lines can be unpredictable. For international flights: 3 hours. Evening flights coincide with the worst traffic—add an extra 30-60 minutes buffer. Many people think a small airport means you can arrive 60 minutes before, but I've seen queues for baggage drop that make this risky.
Are there ATMs and money exchange at Banjarmasin Airport?
ATMs: Available in the arrivals hall (BNI, Mandiri, BRI). Money exchange: Limited, with poor rates. Better to withdraw a small amount (200,000-300,000 IDR) for transport and exchange money in the city center. Have smaller bills (20,000, 50,000 IDR) for the DAMRI bus or taxi. The airport ATMs sometimes run out of cash, so have a backup card.
Can I walk from Banjarmasin Airport to the city?
No, it's not feasible or safe. The distance is 25 km (15.5 miles) along a busy highway with no pedestrian walkway for most of the route. Walking would take 5-6 hours in extreme heat and humidity. Even locals would never consider this. This is a common unrealistic question from ultra-budget travelers, but the answer is a firm no.
What if I have a lot of luggage or am traveling with family?
With large suitcases or family: Book a private transfer or take a metered taxi. The DAMRI bus has luggage space under the bus, but managing multiple bags and children on the bus, then finding another ride from the terminal to your hotel, is complicated. A taxi or pre-booked car takes you door-to-door. The extra $10-15 for a car is worth the hassle-free arrival, especially with tired kids.