Quick Answer
Best overall way: Book a Grab or Gojek car (ride-hailing) from UNRI to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU). Total time: 25–35 minutes | Total cost: IDR 80,000–120,000 (≈ USD 5.5–8.5). For the cheapest option, take the Trans Metro Pekanbaru city bus (IDR 5,000 / USD 0.35) but allow 50–65 minutes. For fastest, a Gojek/ Grab motorcycle taxi gets you there in 20–25 minutes for IDR 45,000–70,000 (≈ USD 3–5).
Key transfer point (if using bus): Plaza Citra bus stop, where you switch from route K2 to K6 (or take a short ojek ride).
Taxi & Ride-hailing (Grab / Gojek)
For most travelers, ride-hailing services (Grab and Gojek) offer the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience. The distance from UNRI (Simpang Baru campus area) to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport is only 12–13 km, taking 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
| Service | Estimated Fare | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grab Car (standard) | IDR 85,000–120,000 (≈ USD 6–8.5) | 25–35 min | Easy app booking, fixed price |
| Gojek Car (standard) | IDR 80,000–115,000 (≈ USD 5.5–8) | 25–35 min | Similar to Grab, slightly lower surge |
| Blue Bird Taxi (metered) | IDR 100,000–150,000 (≈ USD 7–10.5) | 25–40 min | Reliable, book via app or street hail |
| Airport Taxi (fixed) | IDR 150,000–200,000 (≈ USD 10.5–14) | 25–35 min | Available at taxi counter, pricier |
When to choose: Ride-hailing is ideal for most trips, especially if you have luggage. During peak hours (7–9 AM, 4–6 PM), traffic on Jalan HR Soebrantas can add 10–15 minutes. Pre-booking via the app is recommended for early morning flights (before 6 AM).
Pro tip: At UNRI, the easiest pickup point is Simpang UNRI (the main gate intersection) or the UNRI Rectorate roundabout. Drivers may have difficulty finding specific buildings inside campus — always share a pinpoint location via the app.
Source: Grab Indonesia | Gojek Indonesia | Blue Bird Group
Motorcycle Taxi (Gojek / Grab Bike)
If you travel light (one backpack or small duffel), a motorcycle taxi is the fastest and most affordable motorized option. Gojek and Grab Bike operate widely in Pekanbaru, and the ride from UNRI to PKU Airport takes only 20–25 minutes.
- Fare: IDR 45,000–70,000 (≈ USD 3–5) — around half the cost of a car.
- Time: 20–25 minutes in normal traffic; up to 35 minutes during heavy rain.
- Luggage: Drivers have a storage box (usually fits one 40L backpack). For larger suitcases, choose a car.
- Safety: Helmets are provided and mandatory. Bring your own if you prefer.
Best for: Solo travelers, students on a budget, or anyone with minimal luggage. Not recommended for families or passengers with mobility issues.
City Bus (Trans Metro Pekanbaru)
Trans Metro Pekanbaru is the city's bus rapid transit system. While not the most convenient, it is by far the cheapest way to reach PKU Airport from UNRI. The total fare is just IDR 5,000 (≈ USD 0.35), but the journey requires one transfer.
Step-by-step route
- Route K2 from Simpang UNRI (bus stop near the main gate) heading toward Bandar Raya. Ride for about 20 minutes and alight at Plaza Citra stop.
- Transfer to Route K6 (direction: Bandara / Airport). The K6 bus runs every 30–45 minutes. Ride for about 25 minutes to terminal bandara.
- Alternatively, from Plaza Citra you can take a Gojek motorcycle (IDR 15,000–20,000) directly to the airport terminal — faster than waiting for K6.
| Segment | Route | Time | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | K2: Simpang UNRI → Plaza Citra | 20–25 min | IDR 5,000 |
| 2 | K6: Plaza Citra → Airport | 25–30 min | IDR 5,000 (same ticket, valid for transfer) |
| Total | — | 50–65 min | IDR 5,000 (≈ USD 0.35) |
Operating hours: 05:30 – 21:00 daily. Frequency: every 20–40 minutes depending on time of day.
Important: Buses can be crowded during peak hours. Large luggage may be inconvenient — the bus does not have dedicated luggage space. This option is best for budget travelers with one bag.
Train Service (not available on this route)
There is no train or rail connection between UNRI and Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport. The distance of only 12 km makes rail service impractical for this corridor. The nearest railway station in Pekanbaru is Stasiun Pekanbaru (located around 8 km from UNRI, in the city center), but it serves only inter-city routes (e.g., to Padang, Dumai) — not the airport.
If you need to travel long-distance from Pekanbaru by train: From UNRI, take a Grab car (IDR 40,000–60,000) to Stasiun Pekanbaru. The station has economy and business class trains to destinations across Sumatra.
For airport access, stick to road-based transport — ride-hailing, taxi, bus, or motorcycle.
Source: PT KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia)
Flight Connections (departing from PKU)
While you cannot take a flight from UNRI to the airport, knowing what awaits you at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) helps you plan better. PKU is a mid-sized international airport serving domestic routes (Jakarta, Medan, Batam, Padang, etc.) and a few international flights (Malaysia, Saudi Arabia during hajj).
Key airport facts for planning
- Check-in open: 2 hours before domestic departure, 2.5 hours for international.
- Security queue: Usually 10–20 minutes; peak times (early morning 5–7 AM) can be 25–35 minutes.
- Departure terminal: One main terminal; domestic on the ground floor, international on the upper level.
- Food & amenities: A few cafes, convenience stores, and a small duty-free area.
Total time from UNRI to boarding gate: Plan for 2.5–3 hours before departure. This covers 25–40 min road travel + 15 min buffer + 60 min check-in/security.
Source: Angkasa Pura II – PKU Airport
Car Rental & Private Vehicle
Renting a car or driving your own vehicle gives you maximum flexibility, especially if you are traveling in a group or need to make stops along the way. Several rental agencies operate in Pekanbaru, including local and national chains.
| Vehicle Type | Daily Rate | Fuel Cost (one way) | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy car (e.g., Toyota Agya) | IDR 250,000–350,000 (≈ USD 17–24) | IDR 30,000–50,000 (≈ USD 2–3.5) | IDR 280,000–400,000 (≈ USD 19–28) |
| MPV (e.g., Toyota Avanza) | IDR 350,000–500,000 (≈ USD 24–35) | IDR 40,000–60,000 (≈ USD 3–4) | IDR 390,000–560,000 (≈ USD 27–39) |
Parking at PKU: The airport has a paid parking lot — IDR 5,000/hour for cars (≈ USD 0.35). Long-term parking (multi-day) costs around IDR 50,000–80,000/day (≈ USD 3.5–5.5).
Best for: Groups of 3–5 people, families with children, or travelers who want to explore Pekanbaru before flying out.
Source: Rental Mobil Pekanbaru (example local provider)
Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options
| Mode | Est. Time | Est. Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Grab/Gojek Car | 25–35 min | 80,000–120,000 | 5.5–8.5 | 0 | Most travelers, luggage OK |
| Gojek/Grab Bike | 20–25 min | 45,000–70,000 | 3–5 | 0 | Solo, light pack, fastest |
| Blue Bird Taxi | 25–40 min | 100,000–150,000 | 7–10.5 | 0 | Reliable, app or street hail |
| Trans Metro Bus | 50–65 min | 5,000 | 0.35 | 1 (Plaza Citra) | Cheapest, no rush |
| Airport Taxi (counter) | 25–35 min | 150,000–200,000 | 10.5–14 | 0 | Official, fixed price |
| Rental Car (self-drive) | 20–30 min | 280,000–560,000* | 19–39* | 0 | Groups, flexibility |
* Rental car cost includes daily rental fee + fuel for one way. Parking at airport not included.
✅ Best overall: Grab/Gojek car | 💰 Cheapest: Trans Metro Bus (IDR 5,000) | ⚡ Fastest: Gojek/Grab Bike (20 min)
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
🚦 Traffic in Pekanbaru
The main road from UNRI to the airport (Jalan HR Soebrantas / Jalan Lintas Sumatra) can get congested during morning rush (7–9 AM) and evening peak (4–6 PM). On Friday afternoons, traffic is also heavier due to mosque prayers. If your flight is during these windows, add 15 minutes to your travel time.
🧳 Luggage & Baggage
For bus travelers: large suitcases are awkward on Trans Metro buses. Consider using Gojek/Grab if you have more than one bag. For ride-hailing cars, drivers usually help with luggage — tip IDR 5,000–10,000 if they assist.
🌧️ Rainy Season
Pekanbaru experiences heavy rain from November to February. During downpours, motorcycle taxis become dangerous and car travel time can double. Always check the weather forecast and allow extra buffer during these months.
📱 Essential Apps
- Grab or Gojek — for ride-hailing and food delivery.
- Google Maps — real-time traffic updates and bus routes.
- Traveloka or Tiket.com — for flight bookings and check-in reminders.
⏰ Recommended Departure Time
For a domestic flight at 10:00 AM, leave UNRI by 7:00–7:30 AM (2.5–3 hours before). For an international flight at 8:00 AM, leave by 5:00–5:30 AM. Early morning rides are easy — roads are empty and travel time is closer to 20 minutes.
Insight based on local traveler reports and Google Maps historical data.
FAQs: UNRI to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport
Is there a direct train from UNRI to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport?
No, there is no train service between UNRI and PKU Airport. The distance is only about 12 km, making trains impractical for this short route. The nearest railway station (Stasiun Pekanbaru) serves inter-city routes only.
What is the cheapest way to get from UNRI to PKU Airport?
The cheapest option is Trans Metro Pekanbaru city bus, costing around IDR 5,000 (≈ USD 0.35). However, it requires a transfer at Plaza Citra and takes 50–65 minutes. For better convenience at low cost, a Gojek/Grab motorcycle taxi (IDR 45,000–70,000 / USD 3–5) is recommended.
How much does a taxi cost from UNRI to PKU Airport?
A regular metered taxi (Blue Bird) costs IDR 100,000–150,000 (≈ USD 7–10). Ride-hailing services (Grab/Gojek car) are slightly cheaper at IDR 80,000–120,000 (≈ USD 5.5–8.5), and motorcycle taxis cost IDR 45,000–70,000 (≈ USD 3–5). Airport taxi counters charge IDR 150,000–200,000 (≈ USD 10.5–14).
How long does it take from UNRI to PKU Airport by car?
By car or ride-hailing, the trip takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. Peak hours (morning 7–9 AM and evening 4–6 PM) can push the time toward 40–50 minutes. Late-night and early-morning trips are fastest at 20–25 minutes.
Is there a bus from UNRI to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport?
Yes, Trans Metro Pekanbaru bus route K2 connects Simpang UNRI to the airport area. Alight at Plaza Citra (20 min) and transfer to route K6 (25 min) directly to the airport terminal. Total fare: IDR 5,000 (≈ USD 0.35). Journey time: 50–65 minutes.
Which is better for early morning flights: taxi or ride-hailing?
For early morning flights (before 6 AM), pre-booked taxis or ride-hailing are most reliable. Grab and Gojek offer scheduled booking up to 7 days in advance. Regular street taxis may be scarce before 5 AM, so booking via app or hotel concierge is strongly recommended. Allow 20–30 minutes for the ride.
Can I use a motorcycle taxi from UNRI to the airport?
Yes, Gojek and Grab motorcycle taxis are widely available and take about 20–25 minutes, costing IDR 45,000–70,000 (≈ USD 3–5). However, if you have large luggage or multiple bags, a car is more practical. Helmets are provided by the driver. Avoid motorcycle taxis during heavy rain.
What is the total travel time from UNRI to PKU Airport including check-in?
Plan at least 2.5–3 hours before your flight departure. The road trip itself is 20–40 minutes. Add 15–20 min for waiting/pickup, 15 min for airport security, and the recommended 60 min before boarding for domestic flights (90 min for international). This gives a safe buffer of 2.5–3 hours total from UNRI to gate.