Flights to Samarinda at a glance

Traveling to Samarinda is easy, with numerous full-service airlines providing a range of flight options. Explore journey times and select the best flights to Samarinda that align with your schedule, ensuring you have time to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport near Samarinda: Sepinggan International Airport (BPN)
• Flights per week: 7 flights arriving at Samarinda airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Samarinda: around 2 carriers

Popular airport near Samarinda

Samarinda is a lively city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, urban experiences, and beach getaways, attracting travelers with its rich culture. The city is conveniently accessible via a major airport, making it easy to arrange flights to Samarinda Airport and explore the surrounding area.

• Sepinggan International Airport (BPN): Situated in East Kalimantan, approximately 55 miles from Samarinda, this airport primarily offers domestic flights. Travelers can opt for an upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the airline and route. Key carriers operating here include Garuda Indonesia and APG Airlines.

Top routes to Samarinda

• Jakarta (CGK) to Samarinda (BPN), with one-way flight options from around $120

Cheapest routes to Samarinda

• Jakarta (CGK) to Samarinda (BPN), with cheap one-way fares from around $120

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Samarinda

• APG Airlines: Services Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) and is responsible for about 62% of arrivals in Samarinda. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of roughly $150, with premium cabins potentially offering business class on select routes.
• Garuda Indonesia: Also operating flights to Sepinggan International Airport (BPN), Garuda Indonesia accounts for approximately 38% of incoming flights to Samarinda. The typical one-way fare is around $130.

How to save money on a flight to Samarinda

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Samarinda is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Samarinda hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Samarinda flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Samarinda

Samarinda welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Samarinda efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Sepinggan International Airport, Balikpapan Seaport, a seaport, is located about 7.7 miles from the airport, offering convenient access to maritime travel.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Samarinda, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Samarinda is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Samarinda on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Samarinda

• Tenggarong: Tenggarong is located 19 miles drive away from Samarinda and is a vibrant city steeped in culture. It's famous for the Kutai Palace, a historic landmark that reflects the region's rich heritage. Visitors can also explore Mulawarman University, which showcases modern educational architecture. For those interested in spirituality, the Mesjid Raya Darussalam mosque offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful design, making it a perfect spot for cultural immersion and reflection.
• Teluk Dalam: Teluk Dalam is located 12 miles drive away from Samarinda and offers an intriguing cultural experience. The city is home to the Kutai Palace, where travelers can delve into the area's historical narratives. Additionally, Mulawarman University adds a contemporary touch to the landscape, appealing to those curious about education in the region. The Samarinda Islamic Centre is another notable site, providing a glimpse into local spiritual life and architecture, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
• Perjiwa: Perjiwa is located 15 miles drive away from Samarinda and is an engaging destination for culture seekers. The Kutai Palace stands out as a key attraction, showcasing the historical essence of the area. Visitors can also appreciate the modernity of Mulawarman University, which adds a dynamic element to the city. The Samarinda Islamic Centre further enriches the cultural landscape, inviting travelers to experience the local traditions and community spirit in a beautiful setting.

Tips for short-haul flights to Samarinda

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. This also allows you to bypass waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Samarinda

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight departs to accommodate check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival to help minimize jet lag.