Is there a direct train to Pekanbaru?

No, there is currently no railway network connecting Java to Pekanbaru.

How long is the ferry crossing?

The ferry from Merak to Bakauheni takes approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on weather.

Are there flights from Semarang to Pekanbaru?

Yes, but they are always connecting flights via Jakarta or Batam.

What is the best bus class?

Executive class is recommended for long-distance travel due to reclining seats and air conditioning.

Is it safe to travel by bus in Sumatra?

Yes, provided you stick to major bus operators and travel during daylight hours when possible.

Salatiga

Pekanbaru

Bus Flight

Salatiga to Pekanbaru

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Salatiga to Pekanbaru requires crossing the Java Sea and the island of Sumatra. You must first travel to Ahmad Yani International Airport in Semarang, roughly 50 kilometers away. From there, direct or connecting flights to Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport are the most efficient method. Alternatively, a grueling bus journey involves taking the Trans-Java Toll Road to Jakarta, then a ferry to Bakauheni, and finally the Trans-Sumatra Highway. This journey spans over 2,000 kilometers and requires significant planning for ferry schedules.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,150 km, straight-line air distance 1,380 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Semarang (SRG) to Pekanbaru (PKU) via Jakarta takes approximately 4.5 hours including layover.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel via PO ALS is the cheapest, costing around 1,000,000 IDR, though it is physically demanding.

Compare Salatiga to Pekanbaru Routes

	Bus Direct	Flight Connecting
Duration	72 hours	4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	900,000 - 1,200,000 IDR	1,800,000 - 3,500,000 IDR
Operator	PO ALS or PO Medan Jaya	Citilink or Lion Air
Route	Salatiga - Trans-Java Toll Road - Merak - Bakauheni - Trans-Sumatra Highway - Pekanbaru.	SRG (Semarang) to CGK (Jakarta) to PKU (Pekanbaru).
Tip	Prepare for a long journey; bring a neck pillow and sufficient snacks for the multi-day trip.	Book your flight from Semarang to Jakarta early to ensure a smooth connection to Pekanbaru.

Travel Tips

Flight Booking
Always book your connecting flights on a single ticket to protect against delays.
Ferry Comfort
If taking the bus, choose an executive class seat for better legroom during the ferry crossing.
Hydration
Carry a reusable water bottle as the climate in Riau is significantly more humid than in Central Java.
Local Currency
Keep small denominations of cash for toll payments and roadside food stalls.
Language
While Indonesian is spoken, learning a few basic Malay phrases will help you connect with locals in Pekanbaru.

Safety Tips

Bus Safety
Only use reputable bus companies like PO ALS to ensure the vehicle is well-maintained.
Personal Belongings
Keep your passport and valuables in a secure money belt during the long bus transit.
Health Precautions
Carry basic medication for motion sickness, as the Trans-Sumatra Highway has many winding sections.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police and emergency numbers for Riau province in your phone.