Is there a direct flight?

No, there are no direct flights between Samarinda and Malang.

How to get to BPN airport?

Take a shuttle bus or private car from Samarinda via the Balikpapan-Samarinda Toll Road.

Which train station in Surabaya?

Surabaya Gubeng is the primary station for trains heading to Malang.

Is Malang safe for tourists?

Yes, Malang is generally safe and welcoming to domestic and international travelers.

What is the best transport in Malang?

Motorbike taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most efficient ways to navigate the city.

Samarinda

Malang

Train Flight

Samarinda to Malang

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Samarinda to Malang requires a multi-modal approach starting with a land transfer to Balikpapan. You must fly from Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport to Juanda International Airport in Surabaya. From Surabaya, you can take the Penataran or Tumapel train service to Malang. The total travel time is approximately 6 to 8 hours including transfers. This route connects the industrial heart of Kalimantan to the educational hub of East Java.

Total Distance: Driving distance is not applicable due to sea separation; air distance is approximately 1,150 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Balikpapan to Surabaya followed by a private car transfer to Malang, taking 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Flight to Surabaya followed by economy train to Malang, costing roughly 1.3 million IDR total.

Compare Samarinda to Malang Routes

	Train Direct	Flight Connecting via Surabaya
Duration	2 hours	4 hours
Avg Price	50,000 - 150,000 IDR	1,200,000 - 2,000,000 IDR
Operator	KAI Commuter	Lion Air or Citilink
Route	Surabaya Gubeng Station to Malang Kota Baru	AAP/BPN Airport to SUB Airport
Tip	Use the KAI Access app to secure your seat as trains sell out quickly on weekends.	Book your shuttle from Samarinda to BPN airport at least 4 hours before your flight.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfer
Use the official airport taxi or shuttle services from Samarinda to Balikpapan to avoid scams.
Train Booking
Always book your train tickets online at least 3 days in advance to ensure availability.
Weather Prep
Malang is significantly cooler than Samarinda; bring a light jacket for the evenings.
Luggage
Keep your valuables in your carry-on bag during the flight and train segments.
Local Currency
Carry cash in small denominations for local transport and street food in Malang.

Safety Tips

Ride-hailing
Use Grab or Gojek for safe and transparent pricing when moving around Malang.
Scam Awareness
Ignore unofficial taxi touts at the airport; use the designated counters.
Health
Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
Emergency
Save the local police and hospital numbers in your phone before arrival.