Kerinci remains wild and pristine precisely because it is not easy to reach. Many adventurers are confused about how to get to Kerinci efficiently without wasting days in transit.
Unlike Bali or Java where tourism is just a flight away, Kerinci sits deep in the heart of Sumatra. But this isolation is what makes the adventure exclusive. It keeps the crowds away and the rainforest intact.
Do not worry regarding the logistics. Whether you are looking for flights to Padang Airport or the best overland route, this expert guide covers it all. With the right planning, the journey to the mountain becomes a beautiful transition—a slow ascent from the heat of the coast into the cool embrace of the clouds.
If you look at a map, you might see two potential airports: Padang (PDG) in West Sumatra and Jambi (DJB).
Although Mount Kerinci is administratively in Jambi Province, the best option on how to get to Kerinci is actually via Padang (Minangkabau International Airport).
The reason is simple: efficiency and scenery. The drive from Padang to Kersik Tuo takes about 7-8 hours through the breathtaking Barisan Mountains ranges. In contrast, the route from Jambi City takes 10-12 hours through flat palm oil plantations. That is why flights to Padang Airport are the superior choice.
A Note on the Sungai Penuh Airport (KRC): You might see flights listed to “Depati Parbo Airport” (KRC) in Kerinci. As a local, I must offer a word of caution. These flights (usually Susi Air or Wings Air) are highly dependent on visual visibility.
The valley is often covered in mist. Cancellations are frequent. If your time is limited, do not take this risk. It is better to have a guaranteed 7-hour scenic drive than to be stuck at an airport waiting for the fog to lift.
For our international climbers, reaching the roof of Sumatra has never been easier. We now have excellent connectivity from two major hubs.
From Kuala Lumpur (KUL): The Flexible Route This is the most popular hub. You have multiple direct flight options daily, primarily with AirAsia and Super Air Jet.
Flight Time: Less than 1 hour 15 minutes.
Strategy: With multiple schedules available, aim for a morning departure. Landing in Padang before noon gives you the most relaxing overland journey to Kerinci.
From Singapore (SIN): The Game Changer (Scoot) Good news for our Singaporean guests. In the past, you had to transit via Kuala Lumpur or Batam. Not anymore. Scoot now operates direct flights to Padang (PDG).
The Schedule: The flight typically lands in Padang around 12:20 PM (WIB).
Why this works: Landing at 12:20 means you can leave the airport by 1:00 PM. You will arrive at our basecamp in Kersik Tuo around 8:00 – 9:00 PM just in time for a warm dinner and a full night’s sleep before your climb. No transit, no wasted days.
If you are traveling from Java or Bali, Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta) is your main hub.
Flights to Padang Airport are frequent. Major carriers like Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, and Lion Group operate multiple flights daily. Because the frequency is high, you have flexibility, but timing is everything.
A Specific Warning: Based on the experience of our previous guests, I strongly advise avoiding the Super Air Jet flight scheduled around 11:20 AM. This specific slot carries a high risk of delay, often rolling over to the next schedule.
My Recommendation: Always aim for the earliest flight possible (before 09:00 AM). Why? Because a delay in Jakarta creates a domino effect. If you land late in the afternoon, you will start the 7-hour drive late, and arrive in Kersik Tuo well past midnight. This cuts deeply into the recovery sleep you desperately need before the climb.
Once you land in Padang, the real journey begins. You have two main options to cover the 200km distance to Kersik Tuo, depending on your package and group size.
1. Partner Shared Transport (Value Option): This is the standard for solo travelers on our Regular Trip. You book one seat in a shared car. Unlike random public transport, we use trusted partners who understand our standards of comfort. It is value-for-money, safe, and can be upgraded to private if you prefer more space and flexibility.
2. Private Charter (Comfort Option): This is the standard for Premium guests (even solo) and all groups. We prioritize recovery and privacy here.
For 1-3 Passengers: We use the Daihatsu Sigra. While others often cut costs by turning off the air conditioning in the highlands, our standard is Full AC and a strictly smoke-free cabin for your comfort.
For 4+ Passengers: We upgrade you to a Toyota Hiace for maximum legroom.
We view this car ride as part of your athletic preparation. You need to relax your legs, not cramp them. If you prefer a seamless experience where you land, get picked up, and sleep, our Premium Trip Packages include this private transport service automatically.
Interactive route map to Padang and the Kerinci Highlands.
This is not a highway. It is the Trans-Sumatra highway, a two-lane road that winds along lakes, cliffs, and villages.
Some find the curves challenging, while others find them mesmerizing. We pass through the famous Sitinjau Lauik inclines and drive along the shores of the Twin Lakes (Danau Diatas & Dibawah).
If you are prone to motion sickness, I recommend preparing your medication (Antimo) and a neck pillow.
But for those who love a road trip, this drive is a scenic tour in itself. We have written a detailed breakdown of the stops, the food, and the views you will encounter in our guide to The Road to Kersik Tuo.
The journey is long, but as the air turns cool and the tea bushes appear, you will know you have arrived.
