Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Pekanbaru city center to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) is by ride-hailing (GrabCar or GoCar). It takes 20–30 minutes and costs 35,000–55,000 IDR (2.5–3.8 USD) — a perfect balance of speed, convenience, and price. If you're on a tight budget, the Damri airport shuttle bus costs only 25,000 IDR (1.7 USD) and takes about 35–45 minutes. For the fastest trip (no luggage), an ojek (motorcycle taxi) can get you there in 15–25 minutes for as little as 15,000–25,000 IDR (1.0–1.7 USD).
Key data at a glance: distance = 7.5 km · normal drive time = 20–30 min · cheapest option = ojek from 15,000 IDR · most convenient = GrabCar · luggage-friendly = taxi or private transfer.
🚗 Ride-hailing: Grab & Gojek (The Best Overall Option)
Grab and Gojek are the two dominant ride-hailing platforms in Pekanbaru. Both offer car-based services (GrabCar / GoCar) and motorcycle services (GrabBike / GoRide). For airport travel, GrabCar or GoCar is the most popular choice among locals and tourists alike because of the fixed upfront pricing, air-conditioned comfort, and door-to-door convenience.
From the city center (e.g., Jalan Sudirman, Senapelan, or Pekanbaru Mall) to the airport departure drop-off zone, the typical fare is 35,000–55,000 IDR (2.5–3.8 USD) depending on the exact pickup location, time of day, and surge pricing. The ride takes 20–30 minutes in normal traffic.
How to Book (Step by Step)
- Download the app — Grab or Gojek from Google Play / App Store. Create an account and add a payment method (credit card, GoPay, OVO, or cash).
- Set your pickup — Use GPS or type your address in Pekanbaru city center. Common landmarks: Hotel Pangeran Pekanbaru, SKA Mall, or Pasar Pusat.
- Set your destination — Type "Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport" or "Bandara SSK II". The app will show the estimated fare.
- Confirm and ride — The driver will meet you at the pickup point. For airport drop-off, they can go directly to the departure terminal gate.
- Payment — Cash or in-app wallet. The displayed price is final — no need to tip, though rounding up is appreciated.
Price Breakdown & Surge Pricing
| Service | Normal Fare (IDR) | Normal Fare (USD) | Peak / Surge (IDR) | Peak / Surge (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GrabCar / GoCar | 35,000 – 45,000 | 2.5 – 3.1 | 50,000 – 70,000 | 3.5 – 4.8 |
| GrabBike / GoRide | 15,000 – 20,000 | 1.0 – 1.4 | 25,000 – 35,000 | 1.7 – 2.4 |
Source: Grab & Gojek in-app fare estimates, June 2025. Prices may vary slightly by location and demand.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fixed price (no haggling), air-conditioned car, trackable ride, available 24/7 (though late-night availability may be lower), cash or cashless payment.
- ❌ Cons: Requires smartphone + internet; surge pricing during rain or peak hours; occasional long wait times (5–15 min) during busy periods.
Verdict: For most travelers, GrabCar / GoCar is the #1 recommended way to reach PKU airport from Pekanbaru city center. It's affordable, comfortable, and reliable.
Reference: Grab Indonesia official site · Gojek official site
🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus: Damri (The Budget-Friendly Option)
Damri is the state-owned bus operator that runs dedicated airport shuttle services in many Indonesian cities, including Pekanbaru. The Damri airport bus is the most affordable motorized option (apart from ojek) and a popular choice for budget travelers and local residents.
The bus departs from the Damri terminal located at Jalan Jenderal Sudirman No. 1 (near Pasar Pusat) and goes directly to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport with limited intermediate stops. The one-way fare is a flat 25,000 IDR (1.7 USD) per person — less than half the cost of a ride-hailing car.
Schedule & Frequency
| Direction | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Center → Airport | 05:00 | 20:00 | Every 60–90 min | 35–45 min |
| Airport → City Center | 06:00 | 21:00 | Every 60–90 min | 35–45 min |
Source: Damri Pekanbaru terminal info, June 2025. Schedule may change during public holidays or Ramadhan — always verify at the terminal or via Damri hotline.
How to Take the Damri Shuttle (Step by Step)
- Go to the Damri terminal on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman No. 1. It's a short walk from Pasar Pusat or a 5-minute ride from SKA Mall.
- Buy a ticket at the counter. You can also buy directly from the bus driver if the counter is closed (rare).
- Board the bus — luggage is stored in the lower compartment or at the back. Keep valuables with you.
- Relax — the bus is air-conditioned and comfortable. The route goes via Jalan Sudirman → Jalan Soekarno-Hatta → airport.
- Get off at the airport — the bus stops at the arrival/departure area. From there you can walk into the terminal.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Very cheap (25,000 IDR fixed), air-conditioned, no need to negotiate, luggage compartment available, reliable schedule.
- ❌ Cons: Limited operating hours (no overnight service), fixed departure times (you must plan around them), not door-to-door (you need to get to the Damri terminal first), can be crowded during peak travel seasons.
Verdict: The Damri airport shuttle is the best value-for-money option for solo travelers or couples with light luggage who are staying near the city center. If you're on a strict budget, this is your ride.
Reference: Damri official website · Google Maps route distance & time
🚕 Taxi & Airport Taxi (The Traditional Option)
Metered taxis and pre-paid airport taxis are widely available in Pekanbaru. While ride-hailing has largely replaced taxis for many locals, taxis remain a reliable backup — especially if your smartphone battery dies, you don't have local data, or you prefer a more formal service.
Price Comparison: Taxi vs Ride-hailing
| Type | Estimated Fare (IDR) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular metered taxi | 70,000 – 120,000 | 4.8 – 8.3 | Meter must be used; flagfall + distance rate |
| Airport prepaid taxi (from city) | 90,000 – 150,000 | 6.2 – 10.3 | Fixed price; pay at the counter or to driver |
| Ride-hailing (GrabCar/GoCar) | 35,000 – 55,000 | 2.5 – 3.8 | Upfront price; usually cheaper than taxi |
Fares based on typical trips from central Pekanbaru (Jalan Sudirman area) to PKU airport. Actual fares may vary.
Where to Find a Taxi
- Street hailing — You can flag down a blue or white taxi on main roads like Jalan Sudirman, Jalan Tuanku Tambusai, or near shopping malls.
- Taxi stands — Hotel Pangeran Pekanbaru, SKA Mall, and Pasar Pusat have designated taxi waiting areas.
- Hotel concierge — Most mid-range and upscale hotels in Pekanbaru can call a reliable taxi for you.
Important Tips for Taxi Travel
- Always insist on the meter — Some drivers may try to offer a fixed price that is higher than the metered fare. The metered fare from city center to airport is usually 70,000–90,000 IDR.
- Have small bills — Drivers may not have change for 100,000 or 200,000 IDR notes.
- Airport taxi surcharge — If you take a taxi from the airport to the city, there is an additional 10,000–15,000 IDR airport fee added to the fare.
- Late-night rides — Taxis are available 24/7, but between 23:00 and 05:00, expect a 20–30% surcharge (night tariff).
Verdict: Taxis are a reliable but more expensive alternative to ride-hailing. Use them if you don't have access to Grab/Gojek, or if you need a car immediately without waiting for a ride-hailing driver to accept your booking.
Reference: Bluebird Taxi official site (operates in Pekanbaru)
🏍️ Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi) — The Fastest & Cheapest
Ojek (motorcycle taxi) is the most agile and affordable way to navigate Pekanbaru's traffic. Available through GrabBike, GoRide, or by flagging down an independent ojek driver on the street, this option is ideal for solo travelers without heavy luggage who need to get to the airport quickly.
Price & Time
- Fare: 15,000 – 25,000 IDR (1.0 – 1.7 USD) via app; independent ojek may be 20,000 – 30,000 IDR.
- Travel time: 15 – 25 minutes — generally 5–10 minutes faster than a car because the driver can weave through traffic.
- Distance: 7.5 km (same route as cars).
Luggage Considerations
Ojek drivers are accustomed to carrying backpacks, duffel bags, and small suitcases (up to about 10–15 kg). The bag is usually placed on the front footrest or strapped to the back. However, large suitcases, multiple bags, or fragile items are not suitable for ojek. If you have more than one bag or a hard-shell suitcase, choose a car-based service.
Safety & Comfort
- Helmet: The driver must provide a helmet. If they don't, insist or cancel the ride. Always wear it.
- Rain: Pekanbaru is tropical — sudden downpours are common. Ojek in heavy rain is uncomfortable and slightly risky. Check the weather forecast and consider a car if rain is expected.
- Route: The driver will take the most efficient route, often using shortcuts (jalan tikus) to avoid traffic jams.
Verdict: Ojek is perfect for solo travelers with a small backpack who want the cheapest and fastest ride. Not recommended for families, groups, or travelers with heavy luggage.
Reference: GoRide by Gojek · GrabBike
🧑💼 Private Transfer (The Premium Choice)
For travelers who value convenience, punctuality, and a fixed price above all else, a private transfer is an excellent option. This can be arranged through your hotel, a local travel agency, or online platforms like Klook, Traveloka, or Booking.com.
What to Expect
- Vehicle: A clean, air-conditioned sedan or MPV (Toyota Avanza, Daihatsu Xenia, or similar).
- Driver: Professionally trained, usually English-speaking (basic), and will wait for you even if your flight is delayed.
- Price: 100,000 – 200,000 IDR (6.9 – 13.8 USD) for a one-way trip from city center to airport.
- Inclusions: Fuel, tolls (none on this route), and airport drop-off at the departure gate.
When to Choose Private Transfer
- You're traveling with large groups (4–6 people) or have lots of luggage.
- You have an early morning flight (before 06:00) when ride-hailing availability is low.
- You prefer no surprises — fixed price, no surge, no meter.
- You're a business traveler or someone with a higher comfort threshold.
Verdict: Private transfer is the most hassle-free option but comes at a premium. It's best for families, groups, or anyone who wants guaranteed door-to-door service without relying on an app.
Reference: Traveloka airport transfer · Klook Indonesia
📊 Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options
Use this table to quickly compare every way to get from Pekanbaru city center to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport.
| Mode | 💵 Cost (IDR) | 💵 Cost (USD) | ⏱️ Travel Time | 🧳 Luggage | 🕐 24/7? | ⭐ Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 GrabCar / GoCar | 35,000–55,000 | 2.5–3.8 | 20–30 min | ✅ Good | ✅ Yes | Best overall |
| 🚌 Damri Shuttle Bus | 25,000 | 1.7 | 35–45 min | ✅ Good | ❌ No (05–20) | Budget solo / couple |
| 🚕 Metered Taxi | 70,000–120,000 | 4.8–8.3 | 20–30 min | ✅ Good | ✅ Yes | No-app fallback |
| 🏍️ GrabBike / GoRide | 15,000–25,000 | 1.0–1.7 | 15–25 min | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | Fastest & cheapest |
| 🧑💼 Private Transfer | 100,000–200,000 | 6.9–13.8 | 20–30 min | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Yes (pre-book) | Groups / premium |
| 🚶 Walking (not recommended) | 0 | 0 | ~1.5 hours | — | — | Not practical |
All data based on standard conditions from central Pekanbaru (Jalan Sudirman area). Prices may vary by 10–15% depending on exact location, traffic, and time of day.
🏆 Best value: GrabCar / GoCar — balances cost, comfort, and speed.
💰 Cheapest: GrabBike / GoRide (15,000 IDR) or Damri bus (25,000 IDR).
⚡ Fastest: GrabBike / GoRide (15–25 min).
🧳 Most luggage-friendly: Private Transfer or Taxi.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Practical advice gathered from frequent flyers and Pekanbaru locals to make your airport transfer smoother.
📱 1. Always Have Two Ride-hailing Apps
Both Grab and Gojek operate in Pekanbaru. If one app shows surge pricing or long wait times, check the other. Often, one will be significantly cheaper or faster. In June 2025, GrabCar was slightly more available in the city center, while GoCar had lower surge rates during peak hours.
🕐 2. Peak Traffic Hours — Plan Ahead
Pekanbaru's worst traffic is on Jalan Sudirman and Jalan Tuanku Tambusai during 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–18:00. On Friday afternoons, traffic can be heavier due to mosque prayers. If your flight is during these windows, add 15–20 extra minutes to your travel time.
🧳 3. Luggage Delivery Service (Takkyubin-Style)
Though not as common as in Japan, some hotels in Pekanbaru offer luggage forwarding to the airport via local courier services like JNE, Tiki, or J&T. Ask your hotel concierge. This can be a lifesaver if you have heavy bags and want to explore the city hands-free before your flight.
🌧️ 4. Rainy Season Preparedness
Pekanbaru's rainy season runs from October to March. Afternoon downpours are common and can cause localized flooding on Jalan Soekarno-Hatta. During heavy rain, ride-hailing fares can surge 1.5–2x, and ojek becomes impractical. Always check the weather forecast and leave earlier if rain is predicted.
💰 5. Currency & Payment Tips
Carry small denomination cash (20,000, 50,000 IDR notes) for taxis, ojek, and the Damri bus. Many ride-hailing drivers prefer cash, though Grab and Gojek also accept GoPay, OVO, and credit cards. ATMs are available at the airport arrival hall and throughout the city center.
🔐 6. Safety & Security
Pekanbaru is generally safe, but always use reputable services. For ride-hailing, verify the driver's name, photo, and license plate before boarding. Share your trip status with a friend or family member via the app. If using an independent ojek, agree on the price before getting on.
📶 7. Stay Connected
A local SIM card (Telkomsel, XL, or Indosat) with data is highly recommended for booking rides, checking maps, and handling payments. You can buy a SIM at the airport arrival hall or at convenience stores like Indomaret and Alfamart in the city center. A typical 10 GB data pack costs around 50,000–70,000 IDR (3.5–4.8 USD).
References: Personal travel experience; AccuWeather Pekanbaru climate data; Telkomsel coverage map
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cheapest way to get from Pekanbaru city center to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport?
The cheapest motorized option is ojek (motorcycle taxi) through GrabBike or GoRide, costing 15,000–25,000 IDR (1.0–1.7 USD). The Damri airport shuttle bus is also very affordable at 25,000 IDR (1.7 USD) per person, but requires you to reach the Damri terminal first.
2. What is the fastest way to get from Pekanbaru city center to the airport?
Ojek (motorcycle taxi) is the fastest — 15–25 minutes. A ride-hailing car (GrabCar/GoCar) takes 20–30 minutes in normal traffic. During peak hours, ojek can save up to 10–15 minutes compared to a car.
3. Can I use Grab or Gojek from Pekanbaru city center to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport?
Yes, absolutely. Both Grab and Gojek operate in Pekanbaru. You can book a car (GrabCar/GoCar) or a motorcycle (GrabBike/GoRide) directly to the airport departure drop-off zone. The fare for a car is 35,000–55,000 IDR (2.5–3.8 USD) and for a motorcycle 15,000–25,000 IDR (1.0–1.7 USD).
4. Does the airport shuttle bus from Pekanbaru city center run 24 hours?
No. The Damri airport shuttle operates from approximately 05:00 to 20:00 from the city center, and from 06:00 to 21:00 from the airport. Buses run every 60–90 minutes. There is no overnight service, so for late-night or early-morning flights, use a ride-hailing service, taxi, or private transfer.
5. How much does a taxi cost from Pekanbaru city center to the airport?
A regular metered taxi costs 70,000–120,000 IDR (4.8–8.3 USD) depending on traffic and exact pickup location. Airport prepaid taxis are 90,000–150,000 IDR (6.2–10.3 USD). Always insist on using the meter or agree on a fixed price before the ride.
6. Is it safe to take an ojek to the airport with luggage?
It is safe for small backpacks, duffel bags, or one small suitcase (up to about 15 kg). The driver will place the bag on the front footrest or strap it to the back. For large suitcases, multiple bags, or fragile items, choose a car-based service (GrabCar, taxi, or private transfer).
7. How early should I leave for Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport from Pekanbaru city center?
For domestic flights, leave 2.5–3 hours before departure. For international flights, leave 3.5–4 hours before departure. The drive itself is only 20–30 minutes, but you need time for check-in, security screening, and potential traffic delays during peak hours (07:00–09:00 and 16:00–18:00).
8. Are there direct public buses from Pekanbaru city center to the airport?
There is no regular city public bus (Trans Metro Pekanbaru) that directly serves the airport. The only direct bus option is the Damri airport shuttle, which departs from the Damri terminal on Jalan Sudirman. Other public buses require one or more transfers and are not recommended for airport travel due to long travel times and limited luggage space.