Getting Around Martapura
Martapura is a small city in South Kalimantan, and getting around it is a fairly informal affair. There is no metro, tram or commuter rail network to speak of, so visitors rely on minivans, pedicabs and hired cars. The good news is that the local transport is cheap and easy to flag down once you know what to look for.
Local Minivans (Taksi Kota)
The main form of public transport within Martapura is the taksi kota, a green-coloured minivan that runs a fixed route between Martapura and Liang Anggang, passing through Banjarbaru along the way. It's the workhorse of local travel and the easiest way to cover longer distances across the city and towards its neighbours.
- How to board: Hail one anywhere along the route by raising your hand — they will stop for you.
- How to get off: When you want to stop, say "kiri" (key-ree) or simply "stop" out loud.
- Fares: The fare depends on how far you travel, so it's calculated by distance rather than a flat rate.
- Payment: Have exact change ready and hand it to the driver when you reach your destination.
- Practical tip: You need to know the place you want to go, and drivers usually don't speak English, so it helps to have your destination written down or clearly understood in advance.
Pedicabs (Becak)
For short hops, becak — rickshaws or pedicabs — are a convenient option. They are scattered around Martapura's main market, which makes them ideal for a quick trip in that area.
- Best for: Short rides, especially around the market.
- Fares: Negotiable, and they depend on how near or far your destination is — so you'll need to be a good negotiator.
- Language: Becak drivers usually don't speak English, so agree on the fare before you set off.
Arriving from Banjarmasin
If you're coming into Martapura from Banjarmasin, there are plenty of intercity minivans (taksi antarkota, which are orange-coloured) running in both directions. This is the standard public-transport link between the two cities.
Hiring a Car
Another straightforward way to get around is to hire a car with a driver. This gives you flexibility if you want to reach places that aren't on the minivan routes or if you'd rather not negotiate fares in a language you don't share.
Walkability
Walking works best for short distances and specific areas — the main market, for instance, is well served by becak rather than being a place you'd necessarily cross on foot. For anything beyond a short stroll, plan on using a taksi kota, a becak or a hired car instead.
Getting from the Airport
In practice, travellers heading to Martapura typically arrive via the regional gateway serving the wider Banjarmasin area and continue onward by road; the intercity minivans from Banjarmasin and hired cars with drivers are the documented ways of reaching Martapura overland. If you're flying in, arrange your onward road transfer in advance and confirm the details locally, as the available information doesn't cover airport connections directly.
Quick Practical Summary
- Green taksi kota: fixed route Martapura–Liang Anggang via Banjarbaru; hail anywhere, pay by distance with exact change.
- Becak: short rides around the main market; negotiate the fare first.
- Orange intercity minivans: connect Martapura and Banjarmasin in both directions.
- Car with driver: available to hire for flexible travel.
- Language: drivers generally don't speak English, so come prepared with destinations and exact fares.