Getting Around Ambon
Ambon is a compact island city, and most visitors find they can cover the downtown on foot while relying on minivans, motorcycle taxis, and ride-hailing for longer hops. There is no rail, metro, or tram network on the island, so ground transport is entirely by road, and the sea remains an important link to other islands in Maluku.
Walking
The downtown of Ambon City is very pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Strolling around Pattimura Park is one of the best ways to spend a relaxed afternoon, and in the evening a dancing water fountain appears there. If you want a printed map of the city, one is available on the second floor of Toko Buku Dian Pertiwi, near Trikora Monument.
Angkot, Becak, and Ojek
Angkot minivans — locally called oto — run fixed routes around the island and are the main form of public transport. There are no fixed stops: simply wave your hand at the side of the road to flag one down. Check the sign on top of the van and confirm with the driver that it serves the route you want. Pay when you get out. Sitting up front is fine if it's empty and you'd rather not squeeze into the back. To ask the driver to stop where you want to get off, say minggir.
- Becak (bicycle rickshaws) are a good option for shorter distances downtown.
- Ojek (passenger motorcycles) are widely available around the island.
- Gojek, the online ojek service, also operates in Ambon.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis in Ambon look like private cars, with no taxi sign above the vehicle, and are mostly found outside the airport. Metered taxis are available, but confirm the meter is running before you set off. Ride-hailing is represented by Gojek, which is available on the island.
Renting a Vehicle
Getting around Ambon is easier by renting a bike or a car, and car rental is available at the airport. Motorbike rentals are also an option for independent travel. Google Maps is capable of identifying tourist and public destinations on the island, so it works well for navigation.
Getting from Pattimura Airport into the City
Pattimura Airport (AMQ) is the main air gateway to Ambon, with multiple daily flights from Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Batik Air. Some flights make a stopover in Surabaya or Makassar, and there are also direct flights to and from Manado, Ternate, and Sorong. The airport has basic amenities including car rental, cafes, and small shops.
From the airport you have two main options for reaching the city:
- DAMRI bus — located on the right side of the arrival hall. It is the cheaper option and stops at Lapangan Merdeka in the heart of the city.
- Taxi — found mostly outside the airport. It is the more expensive option and operates like a private car rather than a marked taxi.
Arriving by Sea
Ferries connect Ambon with Seram, Banda, Ternate, and other islands, operated by Pelni and local companies. Pelni services include ships such as KM. Tidar from Makassar and KM. Dorolonda from Jakarta and Surabaya. Schedules and reservations can be checked at the PELNI office or through the PELNI app.
Practical Notes
- The dry season runs roughly April to October, with temperatures around 25–32°C and lower humidity.
- Bahasa Indonesia is spoken alongside local dialects.
- Modest dress is advised, especially at religious sites.
- The Ambon Music Festival is typically held in September.