How far is Pekanbaru from Jakarta?

It is approximately 1100 km by air or 1500 km by road and ferry.

Is there a train to Pekanbaru?

No, there is no railway network in the Riau province connecting to the rest of Sumatra.

What is the best way to get around Pekanbaru?

Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab are the most convenient and transparent options.

Are there direct flights from Malang to Pekanbaru?

No, all flights require a transit in Jakarta or another major hub.

Is the Trans-Sumatra Highway safe?

It is generally safe for travel, but it is recommended to drive during daylight hours.

Pekanbaru

Bus Flight

Poncokusumo to Pekanbaru

Updated: 28 May 2026

Reaching Pekanbaru from Poncokusumo involves a long-distance journey across Java and the length of Sumatra. You should travel to Malang or Surabaya to catch a flight to Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport in Pekanbaru. Alternatively, a bus journey involves crossing the Sunda Strait by ferry and traveling the Trans-Sumatra Highway. The total distance is over 2000 km. This route is best suited for those who enjoy long-distance overland travel or prefer the speed of air transit.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2100 km, straight-line air distance 1700 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Juanda International Airport (SUB) to Pekanbaru, taking about 6 hours including the layover.

Cheapest Way

Bus via PO SAN, costing around 900,000 IDR, though it requires multiple days of travel.

Compare Poncokusumo to Pekanbaru Routes

	Bus Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	60 hours	6 hours
Avg Price	900,000 - 1.5 million IDR	2.0 - 4.0 million IDR
Operator	PO SAN	Lion Air
Route	Malang - Jakarta - Merak - Bakauheni - Pekanbaru	MLG/SUB to CGK to PKU
Tip	Bring a power bank as bus power outlets are not always reliable.	Check baggage allowances as connecting flights may have different rules.

Travel Tips

Airport Access
Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport is close to the city center; use local taxis for quick access.
Bus Comfort
Choose executive class buses for better legroom and reclining seats on the long journey.
Road Conditions
The Trans-Sumatra Highway is improving but can still be bumpy; prepare for a rough ride.
Local Food
Try the local Ikan Patin (catfish) dishes, which are a specialty in Pekanbaru.
Connectivity
Purchase a local SIM card with a strong signal for Sumatra, such as Telkomsel.

Safety Tips

Bus Safety
Keep your luggage locked and within sight at all times on public transport.
Health Precautions
Carry basic medication for motion sickness, as the roads in Sumatra are winding.
Emergency Contacts
Save local emergency numbers for police and medical services in your phone.
Night Safety
Avoid traveling on remote sections of the highway at night if possible.