When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Jakarta?
Cheap Jakarta flights are most likely to be found during the city’s low season, which lasts from October to May. This period is Indonesia’s wet season, which sees a large increase in rainfall that usually peaks in January. There are also often deals during Ramadan (dates vary between April and July depending on the year) as the city is quieter and also very hot.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Jakarta?
We recommend booking your return Jakarta flights three to four months in advance in order to secure the best deals on your airfare. It is possible to find cheap last-minute return flights, but it often requires more flexibility. If you’re looking to get the most out of you trip, make sure to visit between the end of May and the beginning of July to catch the Jakarta Fair, the largest fair of its kind in the country. The Jakarta Fair is bursting at the seams with art, culture and business exhibitions.
Flying to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)
Located on the island of Java, Indonesia just 20 km north of central Jakarta, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is one of the busiest airports in the world and one of two that serve the greater Jakarta area. When flying from the United Kingdom (UK), return flights to Jakarta depart from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Due to the long flight time, direct flights are not available, but airlines like Etihad Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways operate routes that stop in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Singapore or Doha en route. It is also possible to depart from either Bristol or Belfast, but all routes include two or more stopovers.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, you will be welcomed by a beautifully designed and impressively equipped mega hub. CGK is made up of three terminals – with a fourth one currently under construction – that are surrounded by beautiful gardens and even a fully equipped golf course. The first two terminal buildings are inspired by the traditional Javanese joglo building style, whereas the third and fourth have been built to be modern and eco-friendly while still fitting in with the overall theme. Enjoy all the usual amenities, such as shops, restaurants and bars a plenty, while taking in the spectacular greenery and superb architectural design.
Getting to the City from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)
Being one of the busiest airports in the southern hemisphere, it’s no surprise that CGK is incredibly well-connected to both Jakarta city centre and the surrounding areas. As well as private car hires and taxi services, both of which take about 90 minutes depending on traffic, it is also possible to travel via bus or rail. The fastest way to central Jakarta is by using the Airport Rail Link, which takes approximately 50 minutes and will help you avoid the city’s notoriously bad traffic.
Why Visit Jakarta?
Perched on the northwest coast of the Indonesian island of Java, Jakarta is an utterly spectacular city overflowing with adventure and intrigue. There are so many sides to the capital city to explore that it’s simply impossible to be bored during your visit. From island hopping to flea markets, art galleries to water parks and cathedrals to national monuments, it’s easy to see why Jakarta is popular with tourists worldwide.
No matter your reason for visiting this grand city, there are a few sights that any visitor really must take the time to see. Start off by making your way to the spectacular Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in all of Indonesia, before heading to the Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park, which is an attraction that visually represents Indonesia’s different provinces and their cultures using miniatures, monuments and gardens. Also make sure to visit the National Monument (MONAS) an obelisk that has become a symbol of the city since its construction.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
As a UK citizen, it is not necessary to obtain a visa when visiting Indonesia for up to 30 days. If you are planning to stay longer, then you can apply for a visa online or upon arrival. The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesia rupiah, which you should try to obtain prior to your arrival. Although it is possible to exchange money during your stay, you are more likely to get better rates outside of Indonesia.
