Passing through Syamsudin Noor Airport? A layover in Banjarmasin is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 100 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside BDJ
Three things to verify before you walk out of BDJ:
- Can you legally enter Indonesia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Damri Bus / Taxi / Ride-hailing, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the IDR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From BDJ, the Damri Bus / Taxi / Ride-hailing gets you to Banjarmasin in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Damri Bus / Taxi / Ride-hailing offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Banjarmasin:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at BDJ
Luggage storage options at BDJ can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Banjarmasin for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to See and Do in Banjarmasin
Two recommendations for your time in Banjarmasin:
Start with Siring Tendean Park & Menara Pandang. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. Then, if time allows, make your way to Mesjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BDJ, you can spend time at Concordia Premier Lounge BDJ or try Airport Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Banjarmasin: Soto Banjar Bang Amat and Warung Makan H. Fauzan. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Solaria BDJ or Rotiboy BDJ. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at BDJ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Indonesia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BDJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Banjarmasin or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Banjarmasin genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.