In Indonesia transport for tourist is licensed differently from local transportation both for public and private use. the type of transport for tourist can be seen from the mark " Pariwisata " normally printed on the side of the car, meaning sightseeing bus or car. It is strongly remind the travelers to use only licensed transport, and do not confused by other transport that are used for inter-city connection or private. Bus or mini bus for inter city and private will not have above mark. Although at some destination in Indonesia the mark is sometimes absence, but guide line at the tourism brochure can inform the travelers. Every car in Indonesia must show the registration number which is to be attached at the front and back of the car in eye catching manner.

The sight seeing bus or mini van has black background and public transportation for people with yellow background of the registration plate. Although there is no limitation or forbidden to joint public transport of inter city or in the city, travelers must take caution unless can speak enough bahasa Indonesia or already familiar with the situation of Indonesian especially in North Sumatra. Public transportation or private transportation which is offered to the passengers are normally do not care about comfort ability and it is not their priority. While traveling in tropical country which is almost 24 hours high temperature and moisture level will make the physic quickly getting tired.

At the airport taxis are available for transfer service and cost is already fixed by their association as shown by the coupon. If one is forced to take a taxi for transfer within the city please take note on registration number, taxi number or even the name of the driver for your note book and take the coupon given by the association or the counter. Keep the coupon as travel document. This type of taxi can be ordered for getting around the city, but it is often too expensive whenever the travelers do not know how to deal with them. For getting around is suggested to order tourist mini van from a tour agent, so you will have legal service and got clear responsibility. There are many quarrels between guests and such transport due to the miss understand or the guest brought stale source or guide book. This must be avoided by making everything clear before using the service of them.

Intra-city bus station are exist in the city of Medan mainly Amplas terminal at Jalan Sisingamangaraja. Buses from here depart for Berastagi and Parapat and have air condition. To reach Amplas station by local transport in the city or use taxi it is also possible with less comfort, which is 6.5 kms south of Medan city center. While bus to the north depart from Pinang Baris bus station located 10 kms west of the city center. Here buses depart for Bukit Lawang or Bohorok, Berastagi and Aceh province.