Getting around Yogyakarta can be a fun adventure, but for first-time travelers, navigating buses, angkot (minivans), or traditional becak rides may feel confusing. Thankfully, modern Yogyakarta ride hailing services like Gojek, Grab, Maxim and Maxride have transformed the way tourists explore the city. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can book a motorbike or car ride, order food, or even send parcels.
From motorbike taxis to cars, and even three-wheeled vehicles, these apps cater to different travel needs—whether you’re rushing to the airport, visiting Borobudur, or enjoying Malioboro’s nightlife.
Why Use Ride-Hailing in Yogyakarta?
Ride-hailing has become the go-to option for locals and travelers alike. Here’s why:
- Convenience – Book rides from anywhere, no need to hail a taxi or negotiate.
- Affordability – Often cheaper than traditional taxis, especially short distances.
- Transparency – Fares are shown upfront, avoiding overcharging or scams.
- Availability – Cars and motorbikes are widely available in most areas of the city.
- Versatility – Beyond transport, you can order meals, groceries, or even massage services via apps.
Gojek in Yogyakarta
Founded in Indonesia, Gojek is a pioneer of ride-hailing in the country. In Yogyakarta, it’s one of the most popular apps among both locals and tourists.
Key Features:
- GoRide – Motorbike taxis, perfect for beating Yogyakarta’s traffic.
- GoCar – Affordable car rides for solo travelers or groups.
- GoFood – Order Yogyakarta specialties like gudeg or bakpia delivered to your hotel.
- GoSend – Quick courier service for sending packages.
Why Choose Gojek?
- Competitive pricing, especially for short trips.
- Large network of drivers ensures short waiting times.
- Strong local brand trust.
Grab in Yogyakarta
Grab, originally from Singapore, is another major player in Yogyakarta’s ride-hailing scene. Its services closely mirror Gojek but sometimes differ in pricing and driver availability.
Key Features:
- GrabBike – Motorbike rides for quick travel.
- GrabCar – Comfortable and reliable car rides.
- GrabFood – Order from local restaurants and international chains.
- GrabExpress – Courier and delivery services.
Why Choose Grab?
- Reliable for airport transfers and longer trips.
- Occasional promo codes and discounts.
- Integration with GrabPay for cashless transactions.
Maxim in Yogyakarta
A newer but growing competitor, Maxim (originally from Russia) has gained attention in Yogyakarta for its lower fares compared to Gojek and Grab.
Key Services:
- Bike & Car Rides – similar to GoRide/GrabBike and GoCar/GrabCar.
- Maxim Delivery – package and food deliveries.
- Affordable Pricing – often undercuts Gojek and Grab.
Best for: ultra-budget travelers looking for the cheapest option.
Maxride in Yogyakarta
Exclusive to Yogyakarta, Maxride is a new ride-hailing service that stands out because it only operates three-wheeler vehicles—similar to tuk-tuks or auto-rickshaws. These rides are not only affordable but also give tourists a fun, open-air way to explore the city.
Key Features:
- Three-Wheel Rides Only – Maxride does not offer bikes or cars.
- Affordable Short Trips – often cheaper than cars but slightly pricier than motorbike taxis.
- Local Experience – unique to Yogyakarta, making it a cultural ride as well as transportation.
Best for: tourists who want a quirky, local alternative to cars or motorbikes, especially for short trips within the city center.
Updated “How Much Do Rides Cost” section:
- Motorbike rides (Gojek/Grab/Maxim): IDR 10,000 – 25,000 ($0.70 – $1.50).
- Car rides (Gojek/Grab/Maxim): IDR 25,000 – 60,000 ($1.50 – $4).
- Three-wheelers (Maxride): IDR 15,000 – 30,000 ($1 – $2), depending on distance.
- Airport transfers (car via Gojek/Grab/Maxim): IDR 70,000 – 100,000 ($5 – $7).
Tip: Use promo codes in the apps for extra discounts.
How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps in Yogyakarta
- Download the app (Gojek, Grab, Maxim, Maxride).
- Register with your phone number (local SIM recommended).
- Set pickup & destination on the map.
- Choose vehicle type (bike, car, or Maxride’s three-wheeler).
- Check fare estimate before confirming.
- Pay by cash or e-wallet (GoPay, GrabPay, MaximPay, or OVO).
- Meet your driver at the pinned location.
- Enjoy your ride and track the trip in real-time.
Safety Tips for Using Ride-Hailing in Yogyakarta
- Double-check the license plate and driver profile before boarding.
- Always wear a helmet on motorbike rides (provided by the driver).
- Share your trip details with friends or family for added safety.
- Avoid booking rides in areas with “ojek pangkalan” (traditional motorcycle taxi stands), as disputes may occur.
- Use cashless payment when possible to avoid handling money.
Ride-Hailing Services in Yogyakarta: Comparison Table
| Service | Vehicle Options | Price Range | Availability | Unique Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gojek | Motorbike, Car | IDR 10,000 – 60,000 | Very common across Yogyakarta | Reliable app, food delivery, multiple services | Everyday rides, food delivery, short & long trips |
| Grab | Motorbike, Car | IDR 10,000 – 60,000 | Very common, especially near tourist areas | Easy payment with GrabPay, promotions | Tourists familiar with Grab in SE Asia |
| Maxim | Motorbike, Car | IDR 8,000 – 55,000 | Available but less coverage than Gojek/Grab | Often cheaper rates, flexible payment | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Maxride | Three-wheelers only | IDR 15,000 – 30,000 | Limited to Yogyakarta | Unique local-style tuk-tuk rides | Short trips, cultural experience, fun rides |
Final Tips for Using Ride-Hailing in Yogyakarta
- Install multiple apps – sometimes one service has no drivers available.
- Check fare estimates before confirming your ride.
- Use cash or e-wallets depending on convenience.
- Try Maxride at least once – it’s not just transport, but also part of the Yogyakarta experience.
When to Choose Traditional Transport Instead
While ride-hailing is extremely convenient, sometimes traditional transport may be better:
- Becak (Pedicabs): Great for short rides around Malioboro Street or heritage areas.
- Horse Carts (Andong): Scenic but more for the experience than efficiency.
- TransJogja Bus: Budget-friendly option for sightseeing routes.
FAQs about Yogyakarta Ride Hailing
Which ride-hailing app is cheapest in Yogyakarta?
Maxim and Maxride are usually cheaper than Gojek and Grab.
Can I use Maxride’s three-wheelers for longer trips?
They’re best for short city rides; cars are better for longer journeys.
Do I need an Indonesian SIM card?
Yes, it’s highly recommended for verification and easy driver communication.
Can I pay with credit card or e-wallet?
Yes, Gojek (GoPay), Grab (GrabPay/OVO), Maxim (MaximPay), and Maxride support cashless payments.
Which app is best for airport pickup?
Grab and Gojek have more drivers available at the airport.
Are Maxride three-wheelers safe?
Yes, but they are more open than cars. Best for short, fun trips in the city.
Can I schedule rides in advance?
Grab allows scheduled bookings; Gojek and Maxim are more on-demand.
Do drivers speak English?
Some do, but using Google Translate via in-app chat helps.
Are ride-hailing apps cheaper than taxis?
Yes, they almost always offer better prices.
Is tipping expected?
Not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
Do these ride-hailing apps operate 24/7?
Yes, though availability may drop late at night in less busy areas.
Which ride-hailing app should I download first?
Gojek and Grab are the most reliable, but Maxim and Maxride are great for budget fares.
Final Thoughts
With Gojek, Grab, Maxim, and Maxride, navigating Yogyakarta is easier than ever. Whether you want the reliability of Grab, the affordability of Maxim, the local pride of Gojek, or the unique three-wheeler rides of Maxride, there’s a service to suit every traveler.
Pro Tip: Download all four apps and compare fares before each ride—you’ll save money and enjoy more travel options!