Soekarno-Hatta Airport Transfers (CGK)

Welcome to the Big Durian. Arriving in Indonesia's sprawling capital is an assault on the senses in the best way possible, a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic Dutch architecture, and the buzz of millions of people moving together. This guide covers the essentials of Soekarno-Hatta Airport Transfers and the airport facilities to ensure your entry into Jakarta is smooth and stress-free.

CGK Airport Overview

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK airport), often referred to by locals as "Cengkareng," is the primary aviation hub for the Greater Jakarta area. Located about 20 kilometers northwest of Central Jakarta, it is one of the busiest airports in the Southern Hemisphere. While the traffic in Jakarta is legendary, the airport itself is well-equipped and features a unique mix of traditional Javanese architecture and ultra-modern design.

Airport Structure

The airport is divided into three main terminals, which are connected by the free Skytrain (Kalayang).
 

• Terminal 1: The oldest terminal, primarily serving domestic flights.
   
• Terminal 2: A beautiful terminal featuring open-air gardens and Javanese pavilions. It serves international low-cost carriers and some domestic routes.
   
• Terminal 3: Known as "Terminal 3 Ultimate," this massive, modern structure serves Garuda Indonesia and most major international airlines.
   
• Important: The terminals are quite far apart. You cannot walk between them; you must use the Skytrain or the shuttle bus.
   

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Lounge Options
 

If you need to escape the humidity or wait out the traffic:
 

• Saphire Plaza Premium Lounge: Located in Terminal 3 International Departures.
   
• Garuda Indonesia Executive Lounge: The flagship lounge in Terminal 3 for Business Class passengers.
   
• Blue Sky Premier Lounge: Located in Terminal 2, known for its excellent local food options like Bakso and Soto.
   

Parking at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Each terminal has its own dedicated parking area. Terminals 1 and 2 utilize large open-air lots and parking structures, while Terminal 3 features a massive multi-story car park. If you need to park for a long time, use the overnight lot by the airport admin building. Don't worry, a shuttle runs from there right to the main terminals.

Hotels near Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Given Jakarta's unpredictable traffic, staying near the airport is often a wise choice for early flights:
 

• Anara Airport Hotel: Integrated directly into Terminal 3, offering luxury and immediate access to departures.
   
• Jakarta Airport Hotel: Located above the arrival hall in Terminal 2, convenient for passengers landing there.
   
• FM7 Resort Hotel: A popular option just outside the airport perimeter with extensive spa and dining facilities.

Transportation Options From/To CGK Airport

TravelThru Transfer Service 

Navigating Jakarta's roads after a long flight can be overwhelming. TravelThru provides a Jakarta private airport transfer service that prioritizes your peace of mind. When you book an airport transfer with us, you bypass the long queues for taxi vouchers and the confusion of ride-hailing pickup zones.

Your professional driver monitors your flight status and meets you in the arrivals hall of your specific terminal. They assist with your luggage and escort you to your air-conditioned vehicle. Our service offers fixed pricing, so you never have to worry about the meter running while stuck in a "macet" (traffic jam). You can easily reserve your airport rides on our website by selecting the vehicle that fits your group size.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Railink (Airport Train): Connects the airport to BNI City (Sudirman) and Manggarai stations. It is the fastest way to the city center (50 mins) but requires a transfer to a taxi or Grab for the "last mile" to your hotel.
   
• Damri Bus: An extensive network of buses heading to Gambir, Blok M, and Bogor. It is cheap but can be very slow and crowded.
   
• Airport Taxi Transfers: Bluebird (regular) and Silverbird (premium) taxis are available at queues outside all terminals. While reliable, you must pay the metered fare plus toll fees and airport surcharges.
   
• Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek): Available at designated pickup points (e.g., Grab Lounge at T3). Surge pricing applies during rain or rush hour.

Things to Do in Jakarta

• Monas (National Monument): Visit the symbol of Indonesian independence in the center of Merdeka Square.
   
• Kota Tua (Old Town): Explore the Dutch colonial history at Fatahillah Square and visit the Jakarta History Museum.
   
• Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia: Experience world-class shopping and dining at the massive malls near the Bundaran HI roundabout.
   
• Istiqlal Mosque: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, located directly across from the Jakarta Cathedral.
   
• Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: A cultural park showcasing traditional houses from all of Indonesia's provinces.

How to Get Around Jakarta

TravelThru Chauffeur Service

To explore the city or visit nearby attractions like the Bogor Botanical Gardens comfortably, our Chauffeur service is the perfect solution. We provide experienced local drivers who know the shortcuts and how to navigate the odd-even license plate rules. You can book a car for a day of meetings in Sudirman or a leisure trip to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. You simply relax in the back seat while we handle the chaotic traffic.
 

Other Options
 

• TransJakarta (Busway): The BRT system has dedicated lanes, making it faster than cars in some areas, but it can be extremely crowded.
   
• MRT Jakarta: The new subway line is excellent for traveling between South Jakarta (Lebak Bulus) and Central Jakarta (Bundaran HI).
   
• Ride-hailing apps: For quick trips, Gojek and Grab are great options. They offer both car and motorcycle taxi (or "Ojek") services, which are super important for getting around and beating that crazy traffic.