travelling indonesianya

Eyes On Asia / Stocksy United

This beguiling nation of over 17,000 islands is home to a huge diversity of adventures to choose from – Indonesia's sheer range of experiences is hard to beat.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Prambanan Temple

Central Java

Comprising the remains of some 244 temples, World Heritage–listed Prambanan is Indonesia's largest Hindu site and one of Southeast Asia's major…

Borobudur Temple

Dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, and built from two million blocks of stone, Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple and one of Indonesia's…

Raja Ampat Islands

These small, uninhabited and incredibly picturesque islands, 30km beyond Waigeo, feature heavily in Raja Ampat promotional material. It’s mainly…

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

Central Mountains

Newly developed as a tourist attraction in early 2018, the falls here are among the best on Bali. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the car park; a 500m…

Bada Valley

Central Sulawesi

Seemingly scattered haphazardly around the hills near Lore Lindu National Park are some 400 ancient stone megaliths of unknown origin that might be over…

Taman Nasional Kepulauan Togean

Togean Islands

Togean Islands National Park was gazetted in 2004, and in 2017 was declared a tourism area of national significance. The park encompasses 3400 sq km of…

The Ijen plateau's most extraordinary sight is the magnificent turquoise sulphur lake of Kawah Ijen. A night hike to the crater in which the lake boils…

Muara Jambi

This scattering of ruined and partially restored temples is the most important Hindu-Buddhist site in Sumatra. The temples are believed to mark the…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 11 best things to do in indonesia.

Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park is a Nusa Tenggara must. Its centrepiece is Gunung Kelimutu, crowned by three startling lakes that shift colour thanks to…

Wakatobi National Park

First protected as Marine Conservation Area in 1996, the diverse coral and fish species that inhabit Wakatobi Islands have long caught the attention of…

Komodo National Park

Komodo & Rinca Islands

Established in 1980, this national park is one of Indonesia's – if not the world's – greatest natural treasures. Within its 1817 sq km area are Komodo,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

With 13,000 Islands to choose from, picking what to do in Indonesia can be exhausting. That's why we've done the hard work for you.

Things to Know

This guide to culture, etiquette and safety can help you plan the perfect trip to Indonesia.

Transportation

Navigating the many islands of Indonesia is getting easier – find the fast, comfortable, and memorable ways to explore the archipelago.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules for Indonesia have always been confusing, but trips to Bali and other islands are back on the cards. Here's what you need to know about visas.

Money and Costs

This guide to daily costs, along with tips on saving money, can help you budget for your visit to Indonesia.

Best Road Trips

An adventurous way to discover the greatest island nation on Earth? Or seat-bumping, dirt-tracking utter madness? These are Indonesia's best road trips.

Latest stories from Indonesia

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National Parks

Dec 10, 2023 • 7 min read

It's hard to beat Indonesia when it comes to the sheer variety of experiences on offer. Here are the places you simply shouldn't miss.

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Indonesia and beyond

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Indonesia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country. Home to over 261 million people, it boasts stunning landscapes, incredible beaches, amazing food, and affordable prices.

While most people just visit Bali, backpacking further afield in the country is an underrated activity. With so much on offer, it can take months to see everything because there is just so much to see and do here: hectic and chaotic cityscapes, cool white sand beaches, and violent volcanoes. Indonesia has it all.

And it’s easy to visit Indonesia on a budget too. It’s extremely inexpensive and your money goes far here.

While most travelers fly to Bali and visit the Gili Islands or head to Lombok, I encourage you to try to get to the less touristy destinations and off the beaten path. Find dragons in Flores, go hiking, see the historic ruins of Java, and go to Sumatra. You’ll find even cheaper prices and far fewer crowds once you escape the digital nomad hub of Bali.

This Indonesia travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this island paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Indonesia

Click Here for Destination Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in indonesia.

1. Relax in Bali

Bali is probably the most famous of Indonesia’s islands. Although often crowded with travelers, there is no escaping the fact that this place is beautiful. Try some surfing at Bingin Beach or visit the Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple, which is truly stunning to behold. Make sure you see some traditional Balinese dancing in Ubud too. You can also join a yoga retreat pretty much anywhere on the island and cooking classes are also plentiful and make for a great souvenir.

2. Dive in the Gili Islands

For a true sense of an island paradise, head to the Gili Islands . There are excellent (and cheap) scuba and snorkel facilities as well as great nightlife on Gili Trawangan. These islands are super popular with backpackers thanks to their super cheap accommodation and food, party scene, and stunning beaches for lazing around all day.

3. Admire Borobudur

Borobudur is a the world’s biggest Buddhist temple complex, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries. With 2,672 reliefs meant to highlight Buddhist teachings, it’s made from blocks of volcanic rock. Each level is supposed to describe the stages of life. It is said you can’t move on to the top until you discover the meaning of each relief. Admission for foreign adults is around 380,000 IDR.

4. See Komodo dragons

The subject of more nature documentaries than any other lizard, the Komodo dragon is a force to be reckoned with. Komodo National Park, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, is the only place to see the world’s largest lizard in the wild, which grows up to 10 feet long and weighs over 135 kilograms (300 pounds). Admission is 150,000 IDR during the week, with prices rising to 250,000 IDR on Sundays and holidays (just note that there are additional fees for other activities including ranger fees, hiking fees, diving fees, and so on). The only way to really visit Komodo National Park is on a tour since the islands are over an hour away from Labuan Bajo port on Flores Island.

5. Visit Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park covers a total of 800 square kilometers (308 square miles) at the center of East Java and is the largest volcanic region in the province. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life from the top of Mount Bromo or Mount Semeru. The easiest way to get here is from Probolinggo, through the village of Ngadisari. Although it doesn’t take long to get to the summit (around 45 minutes up a sandy slope) and access to the trail is free, a number of tour operators run guided trips through the park, which includes transport to and from the park.

Other Things to See and Do in Indonesia

1. explore hindi prambanan.

There are 244 temples at this 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the central compound being the main attraction. There are eight minor temples and eight major temples here, with the tallest being 45 meters (150 feet) — which is actually taller than Borobudur. Located in Yogyakarta, there’s a lot to see, so schedule a full day here (it’s the second-largest temple complex in Southeast Asia, after Angkor Wat). Admission is around 380,000 IDR.

2. Wander Jakarta

Indonesia’s capital is a large, bustling city with a population of over 10 million. You could easily spend a few days here as there is a lot to see. Admire Istana Merdeka, the presidential palace (visitors are not allowed inside); see the Monas Tower, a symbol of Indonesia’s independence; check out Ancol Beach; visit the National Museum, and go shopping at the Jalan Surabaya Flea Market. For a moment of calm, people-watch from one of the cafes overlooking Fatahillah Square in the Old Batavia, the Dutch Quarter, where you can take in the historic architecture as you take in the local pace of life.

3. Snorkel or dive in Bunaken

The Bunaken National Marine Park is located in the Bay of Manado and it’s where you want to go if diving or snorkeling is your thing. These deep waters offer fantastic visibility and some of the world’s most biodiverse marine life. Keep an eye out for tuna, sharks, rays, turtles, sea snakes, and more. Entry to the marine park is 50,000 IDR per person, though children under 10 enter free.

4. Broaden your taste buds

Indonesia is home to 17,000 islands and over 260 million people. The country is brimming with diverse cultures, traditions, and beliefs. If you want some idea of how diverse this place is, there are over 700 languages spoken here! This diversity is very much reflected in the food. Javanese, Sundanese, Padang, and Balinese food are just some of your options. Hit the markets, participate in cooking classes, or take food tours to get a taste of what the country has to offer. Your tastebuds will thank you!

5. Visit Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is Indonesia’s cultural hub and is a much less industrial city compared to Jakarta. There is an interesting blend of old customs with modern living here (the region still has a sultan/monarchy). It’s a hip place filled with street art, galleries, cafes, great nightlife, and a strong arts community. Yogyakarta is also a good jumping-off point for exploring the popular and picturesque Borobudur and Prambanan sites.

6. See the orangutans in Sumatra

A mysterious and rare primate, the orangutan finds its habitat on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. A visit to see these primates is a moving experience. And, given the rapid deforestation and fires in the area, you probably want to do this sooner rather than later as these animals are gravely endangered. If you go, make sure you’re traveling with an eco-friendly tour company. Reputable companies don’t let you get in close contact with the animals, as the risk of disease is too high. Even a common cold can knock out a baby orangutan. Nevertheless, seeing these majestic animals is an amazing and life-changing experience. Week-long guided treks cost around 20,000,000 IDR per person.

7. Experience village life in Kalibaru

Kalibaru is a small village on the southeastern side of Java. It’s quiet, secluded, and a great place to tour one of the many plantations (cacao, coffee, dragon fruit, rubber, and spices, among others) in the area on your way to or from Bali. It’s not as well-visited as many other places in Indonesia, meaning you can escape the crowds and get a chance to experience what local life is really like. You can stay here after a trip to Mount Bromo, or just visit on a day trip.

8. See the Bogor Botanical Gardens

Located 65 kilometers (40 miles) outside of Jakarta, the Bogor Botanical Gardens have over 200 acres of land and 15,000 species of plants and trees. The gardens are a lovely spot in which to lose yourself for a couple of hours with a book and some snacks. Admission is around 26,000 IDR. There is a commuter train between Bogor and Jakarta with a stop right next to the gardens.

9. See the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

These are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, and yet not many people make the trek here. They’re located about 90 minutes from Ubud, and then you have to hike through a banana plantation to reach the falls. It’s worth it as there are several sets of falls to explore. Just make sure to bring your swimsuit!

10. Explore the megaliths in Bada Valley

Near Lore Lindu National Park are 400 ancient stone megaliths scattered around the hills. No one really knows the origins of these structures, but they’re thought to be over 5,000 years old. No settlement remains or tools were ever found in the area. It’s best to hire a local guide here as the megaliths are not easy to find.

11. Visit the House of Danar Hadi

The House of Danar Hadi in Surakarta (Central Java) is considered one of the world’s best batik museums, with a handpicked selection of favorites from the owner’s collection of 11,000 pieces (batik is a cloth-dyeing method from Java). You have to take a tour to see it all, but it’s worth it. There are lots of antique and royal items on display. They also have batik demonstrations showcasing how these detailed pieces are made. Admission is 35,000 IDR.

12. See the lakes in Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park, on the island of Flores, is renowned for its tri-colored crater lakes. The crater lakes have continuously changed color over the years, likely due to the mineral makeup in the water. Sometimes they’re green, black, brown, red, blue, etc. The lakes are very sacred among the locals, who believe that they’re the final resting spots of departed souls. Moni is the closest town to the lakes; from there you can take public transportation to the park. Admission to the park is 150,000 IDR.

  For more information on specific destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

• Bali Travel Guide
• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Indonesia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a dorm hostel dorm can cost as little as 55,000 IDR but most places are closer to 100,000 IDR. For a private double room, prices start around 175,000 IDR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels offer self-catering facilities and free breakfast.

Most budget hotels begin at 300,000 IDR per night for a double room that usually includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast. For a three-star hotel, prices begin around 400,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from around 300,000 IDR per night. For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 400,000 IDR per night. Book early, however, or prices can double.

If you’re booking through Booking.com, keep in mind that many of the listings are actually homestays and private residences.

Since hostels and homestays are so cheap, camping is not very common unless you’re on a guided trek.

Food – Food in Indonesia is heavily influenced by a number of cultures, most notably Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Lots of dishes have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

The food here is extremely cheap by Western standards, with street food costing under 10,000 IDR. It’s also delicious in part because much of it is based on fresh spices and herbs. Expect rice and noodle-based dishes such as nasi goreng (stir-fried rice with chicken, egg, and vegetables) and mie goreng (a spicy fried noodle dish with garlic, onion, meat, egg, and vegetables) as well as gado gado (comprising of steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, sometimes egg, and peanut sauce), and lots of satay.

For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, expect to pay around 25,000 IDR. For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with table service, prices start at 125,000 IDR per person. Western food is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at under 100,000 IDR for a meal. For the cheapest food and a fun experience, head to the night markets.

Fast food like Mcdonald’s costs around 50,000 IDR for a combo meal. A beer at the bar costs around 30,000 IDR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 450,000-500,000 IDR. However, food in the country is very cheap and I would encourage you to eat out as often as possible as kitchens are hard to come by!

Backpacking Indonesia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 425,000 IDR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, rent a bicycle to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking, add another 30,000-60,000 IDR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,100,000 IDR per day, you can eat out at more restaurants, stay in a budget hotel or a private hostel room, rent a scooter to get around, drink more, enjoy some massages, and go diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay at a nicer hotel or villa, take taxis or private minivans to get around, eat Western food, drink more, and do any adventure activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, however. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Indonesia is super affordable, it’s also easy to splash out here (especially in Bali). To help you save money, here are some specific ways you can keep your spending down while you’re here:

• Eat on the street – You can pick up tasty local fare for under 10,000 IDR. Street-side snacks, soups, and noodles are super affordable and super tasty.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain with sellers as most of the time the prices they quote aren’t the prices you end up paying if you bargain!
• Drink cheap – Save money on alcohol by heading to the local happy hours (or just buying your drinks at a local store instead of the bar). This is the cheapest way to drink!
• Book online in advance – If you’re planning on hitting up some of Indonesia’s most popular destinations, such as Bali, it’s actually cheaper to book your accommodations (and sometimes tours) online in advance rather than showing up and trying to strike a deal.
• Pay bus attendants directly – When you’re taking an intercity bus, don’t purchase a ticket from a ticket window. It’s cheaper to pay directly on the bus.
• Rent a bike – In many places, such as Bali and Gili, you can easily get around on two wheels. Rent a bike for as little as 40,000 IDR per day. It’s a great way to get around on the cheap.
• Take taxis – Taxis are essential for getting around in some parts of Indonesia, and they can be cheap. Just make sure the driver puts the meter on before you depart (or agree on a price before you get in).
• Bring a filtered water bottle – Indonesia has a ton of plastic waste. It has so much that a lot of it just gets burned. You’ll see — and smell — it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save both money and the environment. I personally like Lifestraw .

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Looking for a place to stay during your trip? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Indonesia:

• PADI Backpackers House (Ubud)
• Kememai Hostel (Ubud)
• Warung Coco Hostel (Kuta)
• Tribal Bali (Canggu)
• Gili Beach Bum (Gili Trawangan)
• My Mate’s Place (Gili Trawangan)
• Wonderloft Hostel (Jakarta)

How to Get Around Indonesia

Public transportation – Public buses aren’t really used for city transport except on Java. There’s an extensive network in Jakarta, known as the Transjakarta Busway. Fares cost 3,500-9,000 IDR for any destination in the network. You have to pay with a card that costs 40,000 IDR (it comes with a 20,000 IDR credit) from station ticketing offices.

Otherwise, most people get around by becak , a three-wheeled pedal or motor-powered cart. You should negotiate your fare before you get in; ask your hotel/hostel staff for up-to-date price estimates.

Taxis are also affordable, and they’re metered in major cities. Bluebird Taxis is available in most places, and they’re the most dependable company for metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. There’s a smartphone app that makes it really easy to order taxis. The starting rate is around 7,500 IDR and then 5,300 IDR per kilometer.

Grab (an Uber offspring) is a household name in Southeast Asia. It is convenient but sometimes costs even more than a taxi. Gojek is a similar option. Be forewarned: if you order a Grab or Gojek, you might wind up on the back of a motorbike.

Ferry – For traveling between islands, ferries start around 15,000 IDR for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. Bali to the Gili Islands is 175,000 IDR (one way) on a speedboat.

While it’s not necessary to book in advance it’s a good idea to do so during peak season or on more popular routes. You can buy tickets on the ferry company’s website or via a ticket agent like 12go.asia.

Bus – Buses are the main way for locals and tourists to get around Indonesia. It’s a good idea to book your long-distance tickets in advance, especially if you want an air-conditioned ride. You can buy a ticket from a travel agent, or visit the bus terminal. Your accommodation may also be able to arrange your transportation.

A 12-hour journey on a bus costs around 170,000 IDR. A short journey, like the one from Kuta Beach to Ubud, is less than 80,000 IDR and takes one hour.

If your ride is a shorter one, you might end up on a bemos (mini-bus). In this case, negotiate your fare beforehand.

Train – In Indonesia, the cities of Java are well linked by train, including Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo), and Banyuwangi (the ferry terminal for Bali). Economy class from Jakarta to Surabaya takes 10.5 hours and costs about 190,000 IDR, while an 8-hour executive class trip can cost from 620,000 IDR. Surabaya to Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo) takes 2-3 hours and costs 27,000 IDR for economy or 240,000 IDR for executive class. Surabaya to Banyuwangi (for Bali) takes 6-7 hours and costs as little as 56,000 IDR for economy or 235,000 IDR for executive class. You can reserve your tickets at tiket.com.

Flying – Garuda Indonesia is the country’s main airline offering international service as well as domestic flights. Lion Air and AirAsia also offer plenty of domestic routes, although Lion Air’s safety record is spotty and I wouldn’t advise traveling with them.

Flights between Jakarta and Bali start around 900,000 IDR each way, while Jakarta to Lombok starts around 1,200,000 IDR. Lombok to Bali is around 1,100,000 IDR. However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel and is only recommended if you have limited time.

When to Go to Indonesia

Indonesia has just two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. Dry season lasts from May to September while the rainy season occurs from October to April. The average daily temperature year-round is 28°C (80°F).

Overall, the best time of year to visit is between May and September when it’s dry and sunny. It’s still pleasant to visit during the rainy season, however, as rainfall usually comes as fast and intense downpours that only last a few hours.

The Nusa Tenggara region is more affected by the wet season which may sometimes result in flooding. The wet season may also be a problem if you’re looking to get off the beaten track in Indonesia, as muddy roads can sometimes keep you from getting around.

In Bali and Kalimantan, the extremes between seasons aren’t drastic. The dry season is the best time to climb the volcanoes, and the best time to dive is from April to September. (If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!)

How to Stay Safe in Indonesia

Indonesia is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Indonesia. It’s most common on public transit as it’s easy for thieves to grab your wallet or purse when you’re distracted by all the chaos around you. Staying alert and securing your valuables is the best way to prevent petty theft.

Credit card fraud is also common in Indonesia. To avoid this, it’s always best to pay with cash when possible. To avoid getting your information stolen at an ATM, enter a reputable bank to withdraw money from there.

There are a lot of small scams around the island and you can read about how to avoid these common travel scams here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). The country is big and, while generally safe, there are certain spots you’ll want to stay more vigilant in. There are countless solo female travel blogs out there that can give you specific information on how to stay safe.

Earthquakes are common in Indonesia, owing to its location on the Ring of Fire (it experiences more earthquakes than any other country). Make sure you know where your exits are during an emergency. Also, download an offline map and languages translation pack in case you need it during an emergency situation where you don’t have mobile data/Wi-Fi.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Indonesia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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Indonesia Travel Guide

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Updated: 1st December 2021

Hands down, this is my favourite country. Trying to list all the reasons to visit Indonesia  is a near-impossible and never-ending task.

With over 17,000 islands spanning from Southeast Asia across to Oceania, you are spoilt for choice. The ever-popular Bali became a second home for me when I first set out to travel the continent, and I discovered there is a good and a bad side to it. You can find a remote paradise in Raja Ampat, explore some of the world’s most famous temples in Yogyakarta and be amazed at a million other things.

I hope this Indonesia travel guide will help you plan an incredible adventure to these islands.

In this article...

What to See in Indonesia

Erm, e verything? Seriously, this country blows me away, and after spending six months exploring it, I still feel like I have barely scratched the surface.

My personal favourites were Raja Ampat and Komodo for sheer natural beauty, scuba diving and wildlife (think mantas, dragons and dolphins). That said, I even managed to find a soft spot for Jakarta – undoubtedly one of the most slated cities in the travel blogging world.

The top attractions in Indonesia

Cultural Hub of Ubud, Bali Ubud is full of vegan cafes, yoga retreats and lush green rice paddies. There are a million and one  things to do in Bali , but if you want to slow down, a few days in cultural Ubud is a winner. Visit the famous water temples, enjoy traditional dance and explore the famous Monkey forest before taking in the lush green landscape.

Mount Bromo , Java An incredible spot in Java to catch the sunrise, Mount Bromo, with its aggressive smoke and surrounded by mist, is now one of the most popular volcanoes to visit in Indonesia.

Ijen Blue Fire Lake , Java The Ijen sulphur mines are not only a dangerous workplace for underpaid staff but are now a popular tourist attraction thanks to the ‘blue fire’ that is emitted from the lake at night.

Hidden beaches in Bali While many people will stick to the long sands of Seminyak and Kuta, Bali has some incredible and empty beaches just waiting to be discovered. Find my favourite on the link above.

Scuba Diving in Batu Batong Labuan Bajo, with its manta rays, dolphins, and incredible underwater world, is the ideal place to scuba dive or snorkel. The HMS Victory wreck in Bali is another popular dive site.

Tanah Lot Temple, Bali This famous temple along the south coast of Bali draws in crowds, especially for sunset. On a rock slightly out to the ocean, this is a typical tick on any Bali bucket list.

The Nusa Islands These three islands close to Bali (Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida) have grown super popular in recent years as an alternative to Bali, thanks to how quick they are to get to. The islands are full of beautiful coves and relaxed spots, but there are plenty of things to do on Nusa Penida , the largest of the islands, to keep you entertained.

The Gili Islands, Lombok These three spots of sand surrounded by crystal clear waters and huge turtles are a short boat ride away from Bali and an easy beach escape to a slower pace of life.

Indonesia UNESCO list

Borobudur and Prambanan, Yogyakarta In Yogyakarta, known locally as Jogja, you can find two of the most famous temples in the world. The Hindu complex of Prambanan and the towering structure of Borobudur can easily be seen on a one- or two-day visit.

Komodo National Park Home to the Komodo Dragon, a boat trip across the still waters of the bay will take you to this wilderness island, which is protected. The huge lizards are impressive, and a local guide will keep you safe (with a stick?)

Rainforests of Sumatra Sumatra is a wildlife and safari dream. With leopards, tigers, elephants and white rhinos, it is a world away from the beaches of Bali. Due to continued deforestation, this natural habitat is sadly in danger.

Sangiran Early Man Site, Flores The discovery site of a now-extinct human species. Measuring in at only 3.5 meters tall, you can visit the place where the homo floresiensis was discovered, although the remains now live elsewhere.

Indonesia also has the cultural landscape of Bali province, Lorentz National Park and Ujung Kulon Park inscribed on the UNESCO list.

Unique places to visit in Indonesia

Jellyfish Lake, Borneo This inland lake is one of a few in the world where you can swim through the still water, which is full of colourful jellyfish. With a sting so weak that it does not affect humans, this is one of Indonesia’s most unique activities.

Raja Ampat, West Papua Literally translated as four kings, Raja Ampat is billed as ‘the world’s last paradise’, and it does not disappoint. Think cabin living, perfect sands, no phone signal and even tribal islands. It will cost you time and money to get here, but I promise it is worth every cent.

See Wild Orangutans in Borneo Borneo’s forests are stunning, and the chance to see Orangutans in the wild or support the conservation efforts is something not to miss if you venture to Kalimantan. With a whole host of options for staying right in the heart of the action, such as Uncle Tan’s wildlife camp , you are guaranteed to be at one with nature.

Toraja Land, Sulawesi Sulawesi, one of the biggest islands in Indonesia, is full of unique and diverse cultures. One of the more popular places to visit is Toraja Land for its lavish funeral ceremonies, which can go on for days.

The 1000 Islands and Jakarta A short boat ride from the manic capital of Jakarta, the 1000 islands are Indonesia’s answer to the Maldives. Think over water bungalows, undersea tunnel aquariums and the kind of beaches that beg for a coconut and a good book.

Where to stay in Indonesia

I nearly always recommend booking accommodation on Hotels.com due to their great loyalty scheme, but sometimes in Indonesia, and indeed much of Asia,  Agoda  actually has a bigger selection of properties, so it is also well worth checking out when booking your Indonesia accommodation.

With over 17,000 islands, suggesting where to stay in Indonesia is no easy task, but  I have hand-picked a couple of my favourite places I have stayed at, as well as some incredibly unique accommodations  you might want to add to your Indonesia itinerary. If you are heading to the island of the gods, check out my in-depth  where to stay in Bali  guide.

Maya Villas Seminyak, Bali

These stunning villas right in the heart of Seminyak were my favourite treat. With private pools, breakfast cooked in the villa and a tranquil vibe even though you are in the middle of nothing. If you are in Bali for a special occasion, this is a winner.

Seraya Resort Komodo, Flores

The area around western Flores, near Komodo National Park, is stunning. Perfect waters and so much nature. The Seraya resort is a secluded paradise and a perfect base for relaxing and exploring from.

TeraAilan Resort Raja Ampat

I haven’t stayed here, but I am only including it as one of the few places in Raja Ampat you can book online. It took me four days and a few WhatsApp messages to book my accommodation, so if you want to save the hassle, this could be a plan.

Karma Reef Gili Islands

Gili T is happening, Gili Air is quaint, but if you really want to escape it all, then Gili Meno is where to hear. The luxurious yet mellow Karma resort is the perfect escape from Bali for a few days.

Elephant Eco Lodge Sumatra

At the tip of Sumatra, just across from Java, sits Taman National Park with Elephants, Rhinos and Tigers. If you want to stay as close to the action as possible, then check this place out.

Pulau Ayer 1000 Islands, Java

Nope, that is not the Maldives. No one seems to realise an hour from Jakarta sits the 1000 islands. With overwater huts, perfect waters and great diving, this is an ideal chill before taking your international flight home.

Getting to Indonesia

Indonesia is well-served by numerous international airports. Jakarta and Bali are great and the most popular airports, but you can also fly into Bandung, Surabaya, Balikpapan, Aceh, and Makassar, as well as a few other international options.

Given the sheer size of the country, trying to find the best airport to arrive at if you are already in Asia is a great idea. Use a search engine such as Skyscanner, which allows you to search by country rather than the airport, to check what regional options you have.

Getting around Indonesia

Indonesia does not have the best rap sheet when it comes to safety, and this applies to both boats and flying. Always try to take a safe, regulated boat with life jackets, not the cheapest, and before booking a local airline, check the online safety rating to at least be informed. With some 17,000 islands across the archipelago, you might find it easiest to book an Indonesia cruise to explore – or opt to take shorter boat crossings to visit just some of the isles. Still, it’s not that complicated getting around Indonesia , as there are a variety of services and options for all budgets.

Travelling between the islands is possible by various means. The country has a whole host of airlines, and I have personally flown on Garuda (Good and serves god awful meat stuffed doughnuts), Air Asia (Cheap and Cheerful), Lion Air (The airline that managed to miss the landing strip in Bali and landed in the water , oh and they also hit a cow once), Trans Nusa and Batik Air (The last two, I’m not sure I would fly again)

As well as small motor boats and regular ferry connections between the islands. The cheapest (and most awful or entertaining – depending on your view) way to travel is on the Pelni freighter boats, which leave god knows when.

When in the bigger cities such as Jakarta, much of Bali and Surabaya,  Uber is a pretty good bet to get around; GoJek is an Uber for Bike riding, and Bemos are small little-converted buses that you wave down on the side of the road and cram in and even the long-distance trains are a good bet. The more remote you get, the harder it becomes, and at this point, sometimes getting a private driver (and awesome new buddy) is a pretty sweet idea!

Carry an international license when driving and have insurance – also be prepared for the odd unexpected and random ‘fine’.

Indonesia visas and safety

Indonesia is viewed as a relatively safe country, with scams, pickpocketing, and an upset stomach being the most likely culprits of any travel mishaps.

That said, there have been various occurrences of crime, attacks and drinking spiking, so keeping your wits about you, as you would in any country, is essential.

In Bali,  be wary of driving by yourself at night on a bike with a bag in view. Too many of my friends have been pulled off their bikes by their bags. In the dark, your valuables are an easy win to steal with little after-thought for the damage to you when you come off your bike.

Beware of alcohol  that is not legit. Dirt-cheap drinks have been known to be mixed with methanol to dilute them, and there have been deaths from tourists drinking these. The Gili Islands and Bali are two places to be aware of this.

In the Gili Islands and Lombok be aware of minimal if any police presence, although mainly safe there have been more reports of thefts and attacks, particularly in Lombok, from the international community of late.

Indonesia is a Muslim country,  and although Bali is Hindu, be aware of the different laws by region. Parts of Sumatra and other islands have now converted to Sharia law, whilst other islands may have a different majority religion. Be sure to be aware of laws, traditions and dress codes before visiting different parts of the country.

Travel Insurance

No matter where you are travelling, travel insurance is essential. Trust me, I have been mugged and lost all my gear and nearly my health – no matter how much you think something won’t go wrong, it is not worth the risk.

I personally use Insure and Go as I find their premiums fantastic. However, it is a mainly UK company. Another popular option that plenty of my frequent traveller friends use and recommend is World Nomads. Whoever you decide to book with, do it!

Visas and Travel Warnings

To find out the Visa Requirements and current travel advisories for Indonesia relevant to your home country, follow the links here to the official government websites.

UNITED KINGDOM | USA | AUSTRALIA | CANADA

For all other nationalities, please add your nationality in the box before ‘Citizen’ and hit enter to search…

Health in Indonesia

A dodgy stomach, or ‘Bali Belly’, is likely the worst you will suffer in Indonesia, but be sure to take out travel insurance in case you do fall ill. In the more developed parts of the country, hospital access is easy and advanced, and in places such as Bali, you can find Australian-operated hospitals and dentists if you would prefer. Pharmacies are well stocked, and you can usually get most things with just a quick chat (or point!)

Indonesia travel costs

Indonesia is huge and varies from the developed tourist land of Bali to remote tropical islands with a population of less than 50. As such, please take the cost prices as a rough guide only.

Food: Meal for 1 Budget – 20k-40k IDR | Meal for 1 Upscale – 150k-200k IDR

Accommodation:   Double Room Budget – 120k IDR | Double Room Middle – 400K IDR | Double Room Luxury – 800k IDR +

Taxi (1 Mile) – 14k IDR | 1 Beer – 25k IDR | 1ltr Water – 5k IDR | Petrol/Gas 1ltr – 8k IDR | Attraction/Temple Entrance – 10k-400k IDR

Exchanging Indonesia Rupiah

Always shop around when exchanging currency , especially when you are already abroad. If using an ATM, be sure it has not been altered, and aim to arrange an emergency credit card as a backup before you set off on a trip.

If you are looking to exchange money before your travel, then Travelex is a pretty huge international brand with either cash offices or various pre-paid card options. I keep their Cash Passport with me alongside my current account for its ease of re-loading and an emergency backup.

Tours of Indonesia

While arranging tours once you arrive in Indonesia can sometimes prove a challenge, it is by no means impossible, and there are plenty of local operators for you to track down . A bit of hunting around and a lot of haggling later, and you can usually score yourself an adventure like no other. Sometimes a private driver might be required as appose to a group tour but exploring this archipelago is beyond rewarding.

Given the remote nature and the hassle of getting to some of its most beautiful parts, I appreciate not everyone has the time or patience that I do to hop on chicken buses or take the long way around. As such, here are a few tours  you might want to book in advance so you don’t miss out on the best things in Indonesia.

2 Day temple tour from Bali | From $260

Explore two historic temples in Yogyakarta, Borobudur and Prambanan. If you want an easy trip from Bali, with transport arrangements made for you, this is the simplest way to explore some of Java’s most famous sights.

8 Day Raja Ampat explorer | From $1640

They call it the world’s last paradise, and from first-hand experience, I can tell you that is true. This remote land can be a nightmare to travel, but this boat and eco resort tour will take out all the hassle.

Bali Mount Batur sunrise trek | From $57

In central Bali, this volcano is a popular way to kick-start the day. It’s also relatively easy to tackle, and even an unhealthy guy like me nailed it. With pickup and a local guide included, this tour will have you covered.

3 Day Komodo tour from Labuan Bajo | From $340

Home to the famous Komodo dragons and incredible waters, a short flight from Bali will deliver you to Labuan Bajo. With deserted island camping and pink beaches, this takes the hassle out of piecing it together yourself.

Indonesia’s weather & climate

Indonesia is vast and, as such, has various climates and weather cycles across its 17,000 islands. I have been sitting dry on one island before watching a tropical lightning storm happen on the next.

It remains a hot temperature much of the year-round  but also experiences a monsoon season. The best time to visit comes down to what you are looking for, as well as the particular region you plan to explore.

When to visit Indonesia

Peak Season:  When school holidays are on, and everyone takes their summer breaks, June through to September can be really crowded, and most accommodation prices are more than double the offseason.

Shoulder Season: Between April and June and September and October, the crowds usually drop off, and the prices , too. It’s likely the perfect time to visit.

Off Season:  From November to March/April is when it rains the most for much of Indonesia, with Sumatra having a different pattern. Prices drop, and I usually like to visit towards the end of the rainy season.

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I’m a senior and want to spend a month exploring Indonesia. Can you recommend a US company that will put together a personal tour with car and driver and guides.

Hi Barry, Sorry, I’m not sure about a US based tour company.

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Introduction

• For beginners
• Visas & borders
• Getting here

An independent travel guide to Indonesia

Discover the sprawling archipelago of Indonesia —a highly under-explored destination with an amazing array of attractions to offer independent through to luxury travellers. Aside from the popular island of Bali, Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s least explored countries in terms of both backpacker hordes and mass tourism.

On this page

• Alternative
• How long for

While in much of Southeast Asia the general rule is to follow the backpackers to find the beautiful places to stay, in Indonesia you do well chasing the heels of scuba divers and surfers . These are the travellers who have for decades caught dodgy planes, crowded ferries, creaking trains and rusty buses to get to the most stunning, out-of-the-way places in search of the perfect tube, or to glimpse a rare underwater species.

Our Indonesia travel guide is here to help you get the most out of each and every one of your trips to Indonesia, beginning with the guidelines below aimed at first-time travellers to the country.

Absolute highlights

Unlike the other countries we cover, in Indonesia's case most of our selections for absolute highlights are entire islands. We feel a major island is best viewed as the sum of its pieces rather than individual destinations within, though we'll cover some of the individual highlights further down the page.

Enigmatic Bali is the proverbial jewel in the crown of Indonesian tourism. The Hindu enclave has long entranced foreigners, from artists and writers in the 19th century through to surfers in the 20th century and these days, well, pretty much everyone from budget-conscious backpackers through to well-heeled luxury travellers from around the world come to Bali. It may well be battling overtourism in places, but there’s more to the island than the touristed south. Learn more about Bali .

Yogyakarta, Java

As ancient as the antiquities that surround it, and steeped in rich culture and tradition, Yogyakarta is Java’s heart and it pumps with youthful innovation and spirit. Shrouded in myth and folklore, this vibrant, fascinating centre is sure to capture your imagination. Explore Yogyakarta

Flores takes its name from the Portuguese for “flowers” and while it isn't particularly known for its flora, it is nevertheless a beautiful place. Home to the spectacular Komodo National Park, it boasts fabulous diving, beautiful islands and beaches, and a near totally-unexplored interior. If you’ve got the time, it should absolutely be on your itinerary. Read our Flores travel guide .

Home to The Volcano That Changed The World, Gunung Tambora, Sumbawa is also home to world-class surf, tremendous wilderness, deserted islands and beaches—and almost no foreign travellers. Plan your trip to Sumbawa .

Forgotten, lost, ignored. Perched near the bottom edge of the Indonesian archipelago, Sumba lies in Eastern Indonesia and is just 700 kilometres from Australia. It’s rich ancient culture and stunning landscapes will have you wondering why you’ve—till now—never heard of it. Find out more about Sumba .

Popular destinations

Ubud : The cultural heart of Bali, Ubud lures visitors from all around the world to its enchanting dances, art galleries, ceremonial processions, luxurious retreats and divine restaurants. There's also traffic. Lots of traffic.

Gili Trawangan : The largest of three islands scattered off Lombok's northwest coast, Gili Trawangan , or Gili T to its friends, attracts the party set. It is not our favourite island, but many love it.

Komodo National Park : Established in 1980, Komodo National Park was originally a terrestrial national park set up to protect the Komodo dragon, but over time it expanded to include what lies beneath. Now it comprises a massive terrestrial and marine national park of almost 2,000 square kilometres.

Seminyak : Immediately to the north of Legian with a reputation for all the pleasures in abundance to its south, but with a more upmarket vibe, in Seminyak the sunglasses are bigger, the dresses more designerly and the drink of choice champagne.

Bukit Lawang : Located three hours from the bustling North Sumatran capital of Medan, Bukit Lawang is a breath of fresh air located right on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park.

Alternative destinations

Munduk : Friendly, mountainset Munduk sees village life go on in Bali as it has for generations. The hospitality remains warm and genuine at the good selection of guesthouses and homestays here; this is old Bali at its best.

Nusa Lembongan : Occupying a comfortable middle ground between well-trafficked Bali and relatively untouched Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan has a banquet of good places to stay, a friendly bunch of locals and makes for a comfortable lazy few days.

Togean Islands : An archipelago in the southeast region of the Tomini Sea in northern Sulawesi, the Togean Islands are famous for both their difficulty to reach and diving.

Amed : The place commonly referred to as Amed isn’t a single town but a string of quaint beachside fishing villages stretching about 15 kilometres along the dry and rugged northeastern coast of Bali. While long a retreat area, it’s a world away from the busy tourist centres in South Bali such as Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud.

Ketambe : While not as popular as Bukit Lawang, Ketambe provides a far more natural experience and leaves behind some of the gaudiness which has crept into its more popular neighbour over the past decade.

Tropical islands

You'll never struggle for choice when if comes to islands in Indonesia.

Nusa Penida : Dwarfing nearby Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Penida is almost devoid of tourists. For all intents and purposes there are just a handful of places worth considering staying at, despite miles upon miles upon miles of beautiful coastline, an attractive hinterland and a generally old-school vibe.

Gili Layar : The latest of the "secret gilis" to begin to see some development, Gili Layar lies just to the west of considerably more developed Gili Gede and to the east of Gili Asahan, but offers far superior off-the-beach snorkelling and a decidedly laidback beachside feel. We liked it here. A lot.

Gili Air : Ringed by a very pretty beach with some quite respectable snorkelling offshore, Gili Air has a relaxed atmosphere and can be a good spot for spotting turtles.

Karimunjawa : Think white-sand beaches fringed by palm trees, turquoise water so bright it stings your eyes, warm weather all year round, hardly any tourists and just enough decent accommodation to ensure you don’t have to pitch a tent. This is the islands of Karimunjawa .

Pulau Weh : Looking for one of those beachside places that successfully treads the fine line between remote jungle-covered island paradise with no facilities and tourist hell filled with hundreds of beach resorts? Maybe add Pulau Weh to your short list.

Two weeks in Java : Many people arrive in Indonesia through the chaotic capital of Jakarta and immediately try and find a way of getting out of there. A preference for many is to get a train across the island to the first place they know anything about—Yogyakarta. Take a breath and slow down.

Two weeks in Bali : Bali is so rich in both sights and experiences that you could spend an entire lifetime on the island and barely scrape the surface, but if you don't have a lifetime to give the island, what could you do in two weeks?

Four weeks in Lombok : While you could skip through and touch upon the absolute highlights with a week or so in Lombok, set aside four weeks and you'll enjoy far more of a rewarding and under-visited island. Here's how.

Two weeks in Sumbawa : While some guidebooks suggest Sumbawa isn't worth slowing down for, we'd say two weeks is really the minimum amount of time you need to cover the peculiarly shaped island from end to end. This is especially the case if you're planning on allowing some time for laying on the beach and exploring the countryside.

18 days in Flores : If you have already seen Bali, we'd strongly suggest considering giving it a skip on your next visit and heading east to Nusa Tenggara to explore one of our favourite regions of Indonesia: Flores and Komodo. Here's why.

Two weeks in Sumba : Stunning Sumba is so easy to get to we don’t know why it’s not overrun with tourists, though we’re glad it’s not. We recommend easing yourself in gently by starting in the east. For a longer trip covering all the best bits , two weeks will see you visiting some traditional villages, gorgeous beaches and waterfalls, with perhaps time for some hiking.

Nature lovers

Bromo : The main reason most people visit Bromo is to witness sunrise over the moon-like Tengger Caldera from a nearby mountain, Gunung Penanjakan. The views from this vantage point are absolutely breathtaking with Batok in the foreground, smaller Bromo behind it and the tallest mountain in Java, the ever-active Semeru, in the far distance, completing an astonishing scene .

Agung : This is the holiest mountain on Bali. Treat it with the respect it deserves—just about every house and building on the island has a shrine for daily offerings to magnificent Agung .

Rinjani : From all aspects Rinjani dominates Lombok’s landscape, and from the summit you can see west to Agung on Bali and east to Tambora on Sumbawa. The ascent, a popular activity for both foreign and domestic travellers, is nothing less than gruelling .

Tambora : The most destructive, and arguably the largest, volcanic eruption in recorded history was that of Gunung Tambora on Sumbawa. The eruption was ten times stronger (on a volcanic scale) than that of far-better known Sumatra’s Krakatau. Climb it!

Kawah Ijen : Lying deep in East Java is Kawah Ijen. You climb it not for the views but rather the lasting impression of the hardworking sulphur miners carting unbelievable amounts of raw material from the bowels of the earth .

Learn to dive: Indonesia offers arguably the best diving in Southeast Asia and there are no shortage of places to learn—or just dive. We learned in the Togean Islands , but Bali and Flores (among many, many others) are also very popular diving locations.

Cooking courses and food walks : Doing a cooking course at Bali Asli , Bumbu Bali or Hotel Tugu will be a great way to learn a bit more about Indonesian fare—and they're just a few of the culinary offerings on one island.

Surfing : Okay, first things first, learn to surf . Once you have that in the bag, we'd be pointing you towards Kuta in Lombok , and Maluk and Lakey in Sumbawa. As with the cooking courses, we're just scraping the surface here. Indonesia has a lot of waves.

Courses and personal improvement : Seen Eat Pray Love ? Yoga mat packed? Destination Ubud .

Generally speaking, April through to November is the dry season. Bali sees its peak tourism across European summer (July and August) and Australian Christmas holidays (December and January). Bali and the Gilis see the bulk of Indonesia's arrivals, and other spots are deserted in comparison.

A side effect of monsoon in developed areas is very dirty oceans . The problem is especially acute in South Bali and South Lombok, where the heavy rains wash clogged-up drains out to sea—don't be surprised to discover you're sun baking next to, or swimming beside, a soiled discarded nappy. Some volcanoes are closed for climbing (with good reason) over peak wet season in December through January.

If your primary concern is avoiding lots of tourists, just skip Bali. In comparison to other Southeast Asian nations, in Indonesia it is very easy to dodge large numbers of tourists, as most of the archipelago sees very few tourists. Obviously the tourist infrastructure will be missing to a corresponding degree.

How long to go for

When you're talking about a nation of some 17,000 islands, you need to be realistic in what you are trying to achieve. Simply put, we'd say a reasonable timeline to travel from Pulau Weh in the west to Kupang in the east, with a few side trips here and there, would require a minimum of six months. Minimum.

Two weeks should be about your baseline for any one of the main islands—and while that will be sufficient for you to knock off some of the main attractions at a comfortable pace, a month is a better spread. A month in Sumatra, a month in Bali, a month in Lombok, a month in Sumbawa, a month in Flores ... You did put your leave form in right?

Trying to cover too much territory in too little time does not work in Indonesia . If you have limited time (say two weeks) make judicious use of domestic flights and be selective in where you go. Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Ubud and Gili T will work in two weeks assuming you're flying the longer legs—we wouldn't advise trying to fit in more.

If you are planning a longer stay, it pays to familiarise yourself with Indonesia’s visa rules . They change occasionally and some rules are enforced haphazardly, complicating what should be a simple process.

What it will cost

Outside of Bali, Indonesia is an affordable country and budget travellers comfortable in simple accommodation, eating street food, not drinking too much alcohol, travelling using cheap transport and steering clear of heavily touristed (and so more expensive) destinations, can get by on around US$20 a day. Alcohol is expensive by regional standards, so if you like four or five sundowners rather than one, you'll need to factor that into your budget.

Most independent travellers tend to spend a little more. That air-con room is tempting, as is the pool and WiFi, real latte and occasional VIP bus or short domestic flight. All these conspire to push daily budgets up to around a more comfortable US$30-40 per day.

If your tastes veer more towards the luxurious, then Indonesia does offer terrific value for accommodation in the US$100-$200 mark, especially in Bali. Food and entertainment costs can potentially increase accordingly.

What to read

The darling of the literary set in Indonesia is Eka Kurniawan, the first Indonesian writer to be nominated for a Man Booker International Prize for his epic Beauty is a Wound , translated into English from Indonesian—the latter was originally published in 2002. It's a fascinating Indonesian slant on magical realism, a rip-roaring tear through the country’s modern history, interspersed with vivid and folkloric flights of fancy as well as incredibly brutal violence.

In terms of international acclaim, Kurniawan picks up the mantle from Pramoedya Ananta Toer, the Southeast Asian writer probably the nearest to win a Nobel prize for literature. Pramoedya’s Buru Quartet cover Indonesian’s political awakening under Dutch colonial rule. At the least, read the first novel of the series of four, This Earth of Mankind , an unblinking examination of colonialism, racism and sexism, woven through a colourful coming-of-age tale.

Travellers will love Elizabeth Pisani's account of her extensive trips through the archipelago in Indonesia Etc: Exploring the Improbable Nation , while Ring of Fire: An Indonesian Odyssey covers the incredible adventures of Lawrence Blair and his brother in Indonesia in the 1960s. Those into Indonesia's modern history should pick up a copy of Richard Lloyd Parry's excellent In the Time of Madness —we reckon this is the best book written about Indonesia in the late 20th century.

Roll back the clock a little for a fictional account of Sukarno's downfall in the 1960s in The Year of Living Dangerously . The 1978-released novel hasn’t always aged so well when it comes to stereotyping but it's a finely crafted tale focusing on the political turmoil that engulfed the young nation in the 1960s, through a Westerner’s eye.

If you're heading to Bali, Under the Volcano is one of the better easy-reading histories and modern reportage books on the island. A House in Bali by Colin McPhee was published in 1947 but remains engaging today. The story of McPhee’s journey as a musician and composer learning about Balinese gamelan is simply, if perhaps unexpectedly, a page-turner. Finally, Louise Doughty's 2016-released Black Water is a fantastic literary thriller set on the island in 1965 and 1998, as well as in Jakarta and California in the 1960s, following the life of a Dutch-Indonesian man born in a Japanese internment camp.

What to watch out for

While terrorism gets all the headlines, arguably the greatest dangers facing foreign tourists travelling in Indonesia today are having an accident while riding a scooter without a helmet, or being poisoned by badly distilled fake alcohol—which can kill you. Both are fairly easily addressed: Always wear a motorcycle helmet when riding a bike. And stick to beer when boozing at cheap beach bars. If your gin and tonic is the same price as a beer, it is almost certainly not real gin and fake booze kills tourists and Indonesians every year .

On Bali, especially in South Bali and Ubud, snatch and grab theft is a serious problem. When walking by the side of the road always keep shoulder bags on the off-road shoulder.

In eastern Indonesia, notably Lombok, Sumbawa and Sumba, motorcycling (and in some cases, driving) at night by yourself is unwise due to a heightened risk of robbery from what were described to us as "local scoundrels". Generally speaking, the more remote the area, the more unwise it is to be travelling alone.

Having adequate travel insurance cover is essential.

Public boats are frequently overloaded and speed boats are often overloaded and driven erratically or dangerously (depending on your point of view). Public boats sink frequently, often with insufficient life jackets. If the boat looks overloaded to you, or the weather dangerous, do not get on board . We do not use the fast boat services from Bali to the Gili Islands—take the slow boat.

Don’t ride (or drive) stoned or drunk. Drug laws in Indonesia are extremely strict, but enforced haphazardly. Just because the guy on the street who sold you a bag of pot didn’t get arrested doesn’t mean you won’t be.

If you wouldn’t do it in your home country because it is stupid, why do it in Indonesia?

Popular destinations in

Amed Ampana Bali Overview Banda Aceh Bogor Bukit Lawang Bukittinggi Dieng Plateau Flores Gili Air Gili Meno Gili Trawangan Gorontalo Gunung Bromo Jakarta Kanawa Island Karimunjawa Islands Ketambe Komodo National Park Lake Toba Medan Nusa Lembongan Pangandaran Pemuteran Pulau Weh Seminyak Sidemen Togean Islands Ubud Yogyakarta See all destinations in Indonesia

This multi-colored map shows why Indonesia ranks as one of the world’s most ethnically diverse countries – MAP by Gunawan Kartapranata – Wiki Commons          

Best online guide for exploring Java and Sumatra

JULY 2023 UPDATE ON INDONESIA'S NEW VISITOR VISA RULES

Indonesia is back to being one of the easiest countries to visit for a short holiday or for extended stays of up to six months.

Effective 9 June of 2023, there is no longer a requirement for arriving visitors to show proof of COVID-19 vaccinations. And you can now apply online for an E-Visa to avoid long airport queues.

At last - Indonesia rolls out the post pandemic welcome mat ...

Officials in Batam welcome first arrivals after the re-opening of ferry services from Singapore’s Harbourfront Cruise Terminal on 15 June 2022.  Control of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought big changed for the better one year later – Pic Jakarta Post/Antarone

Be sure to check the PUBLICATION DATE and source of any information about Indonesian Visas and border restrictions on the Internet. There have been many changes and MUCH of the information appearing online is out-of-date or incorrect.

THIS SITE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS ...

New articles and updates for travelers about Indonesian attractions, beautiful places, and fascinating culture, history, society and peoples are being added regularly. If you would like to be notified of new information as it is published please complete one of the Stay-up-to-date forms on this page. Enjoy your reading and learning. 

Things you need to know when travelling the REAL Indonesia

WELCOME to the Number One independent travel information site for Indonesia.

This is where the curious and interested can learn more about the world’s most diverse and fascinating nation and how to explore it safely, affordably, and in comfort . Without the HASSLES.

Here you can learn about the REAL indonesia – the magical places and events both on and off the beaten track in the thousands of islands out there beyond Bali. And the practicalities of experiencing the best of it.

There is much good information available elsewhere about beautiful and famous Bali, the ‘ Island of the Gods’ . 

But much of the rest of Indonesia is a bare canvas. Our mission in these pages is to fill in the blanks. In the map above Bali is the small mustard-colored blob at the eastern tip of Java – the rest is what you are missing.

Just another lazy jungle day. Bukit Lawang near Medan in North Sumatra is one of the best places to see orangutans in the wild – Pic unsplash.com

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We believe in travelling in comfort

Much Internet information about travels in lesser-known parts of Indonesia targets backpackers with a focus on regular tourist trails, tight budgets, cheap eats, cut-rate transport, and shared hostel dorms. That’s not our style.

Especially when accommodation, food and services are so inexpensive. Remember, the best adventures happen when you take your time, meet the local people, and venture a little beyond the pathways trodden by the tourist herd. It’s magic.

We like COMFORT and make no apologies about enjoying good hotels and comfortable transport wherever possible.

If you share this outlook, then this site is definitely for you. Forgive the pun, but you will feel ‘comfortable’ here and benefit from good advice.  A dventure need not mean you have to rough it. 

It will be even more interesting enjoyable, and satisfying if informed about where you are going and what to expect BEFORE you leave home. And you will avoid what could be awful mistakes.

THE BEAUTY of INDONESIA

Glimpse a roundup of wonderful places to see in Indonesia in this video compiled  by William Damario Lukito

Piring dance of Minangkabau people from West Sumatra (LEFT). The Minang are considered to be the world’s largest matrilineal society – Pic theculturetrip.com. RIGHT: High pitched roof and decorated gable of traditional house of the Lake Toba Batak people . A beautiful place and a fascinating culture – Pic Wiki Commons

Douglas Cole – Website Creator

Saying thanks for all the kindness

I am not a travel wholesaler, or a tourism promotion agency though now the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions have gone I and my colleagues are launching specialized small group tours of the best of North Sumatra and Java for over 50s. (See more at http://www.bettertoursindonesia.com )

I am someone who stumbled into making a new life in Indonesia and has come to admire and love this stunning country. It has been kind to me, and I feel an obligation to let others know about it and encourage them to come see for themselves.

I hope I can contribute in some small way to making Indonesia and its people better known, understood, and appreciated in the wider world.

In the articles written by me and others in these pages I share with you why I feel this way and aim to provide all the information you will need to easily (and comfortably) come visit.

Mount Bromo in East Java attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. Look closely and you will see a staircase up to the crater rim

Get started with these articles ...

The new Indonesia – awakening giant of Southeast Asia

I stood on the deck of the PELNI ferry as we entered Jakarta Bay and stared. This was nothing like what I had expected. It looked more like Manhattan than a Southeast Asian seaport capital in a so-called ‘third world’ country … 

Why you should travel Indonesia beyond Bali

When the world isn’t being crushed by pandemics, millions of people from all over visit Bali each year. They usually have a wonderful holiday. But they are missing out, BIG TIME. And they don’t even know it. …

It’s time to debunk the ‘dangerous Indonesia’ myth

Many people are scared to go to Indonesia because they think they will be putting their lives or health at risk. Yet the facts show this is just plain wrong.  The reality is that most Westerners who visit are safer than if they stayed at home …

Seeing orangutans in the wild and up-close at Bukit Lawang

The critically endangered orangutans of the Indonesian forests have long been recognized as one of the world’s truly fascinating animals. The jungles of North Sumatra and Borneo are the only places .…  

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Update April 12, 2024

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Emergencies

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Indonesia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to  terrorism and natural disasters.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not travel to:

• The provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest.

Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis or volcanic eruptions may result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.

Demonstrations occur frequently and have the potential to become violent.  Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 

Indonesia’s revised criminal code, which takes effect January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage. It is unclear how Indonesian authorities will implement the revised criminal code.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Indonesia.  

If you decide to travel to Indonesia:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. 
• Visit the websites for  Badan Geologi  (Indonesian Geological Agency, Indonesian language only) for the latest information from the Government of Indonesia on current natural disasters.
• Review the  CDC’s suggestions on how to prepare for natural disasters.
• Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Follow the Department of State Facebook  and Twitter .  Follow the U.S. Embassy Jakarta on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report  for Indonesia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Central Papua and Highland Papua– Level 4: Do Not Travel

In Central Papua and Highland Papua, violent demonstrations and conflict could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond arrival date. Indonesia does not accept the 12-page U.S. emergency passport for entry into Indonesia.

Two blank visa pages required for entry stamp

Yes, Visa or Visa on Arrival

100,000,000 Indonesian rupia (approx. $7,000 USD)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy jakarta.

Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 3 - 5 Jakarta 10110, Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(21) 5083-1000 ext. 0 (operator) Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Surabaya Jl. Citra Raya Niaga No. 2 Surabaya 60217 Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(31) 297-5300 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(811) 334-183 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Bali Jalan Hayam Wuruk 310, Denpasar, Bali Telephone: +(62)(361) 233-605 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Consulate in Surabaya:+(62)(811) 334-183 Email:  [email protected]

American Consulate Medan, Sumatra Uni Plaza Building 4th Floor (West Tower) Jl. Let. Jend. MT Haryono A-1 Medan 20231, Indonesia Telephone: +(62)(61) 451-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(62)(61) 451-9000 Email:  [email protected]

The U.S. Consulate in Medan provides only emergency assistance to U.S. citizens and does not offer routine consular services.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Indonesia for information on U.S.- Indonesia relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Entry Requirements:  To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Indonesia. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will be denied entry into Indonesia. The Government of Indonesia will not admit travelers holding the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas.

Visa-on-Arrival:  If you meet the requirements, you can apply for a visa on arrival at some international airports, seaports, or land crossings. To apply for the visa on arrival, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia and a return or onward flight booking to another country. There is a 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah fee (about $35). The visa on arrival is valid for up to 30 days. You may extend a Visa-on-Arrival once at the immigration office one week before it expires for an additional 30 days for a maximum of 30 additional days, for another 500,000 Rupiah.

• Official visit or government duties;
• Business meeting;
• Procurement of goods;
• Official meeting; or

Electronic Visa-On-Arrival:  You may also apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) in advance if you are entering Indonesia at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta or Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying. To apply for an e-VOA see  https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ .

Visa:  Travel for more than 30 days and travel for non-VOA purposes, including employment and journalism, requires that the appropriate visa be obtained from an Indonesian embassy or consulate before arrival. If you are traveling on an emergency passport, you must obtain a visa before arrival in Indonesia.

If you overstay your visa, you are subject to a fine of 1 million Indonesian rupiah (about $70 USD at current exchange rates; fees may change at any time) per day and may be detained and deported. U.S. citizens have been jailed for visa overstays or entering the country on the wrong visa class for their purpose of travel . Travelers coming to Indonesia for non-tourism purposes are strongly encouraged to consult Indonesian Immigration’s website. Travelers should generally carry a copy of their passport with them whenever possible to establish their identity and proof of Indonesian visa.

You must exit Indonesia using the same passport that you used to enter.  If this passport is replaced for any reason before you depart Indonesia, you must apply with Immigration to obtain a “special pass” (exit permit) in your new passport prior to departing.

Dual-Nationality:  Indonesia has laws that prohibit Indonesian citizens from holding additional nationalities. If you are an Indonesian with dual nationality, you could be compelled to renounce your Indonesian nationality through a formal act of renunciation. Please research Indonesian nationality laws and consult with a local attorney regarding any specific circumstance.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Indonesia. The Government of Indonesia screens incoming passengers in response to reported outbreaks of pandemic illnesses.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Extremists in Indonesia aspire to carry out violent attacks against Indonesian and foreign targets, and police have arrested more than 1,200 individuals on terrorism-related charges since 2018. Extremists may target both official and private establishments, including government offices, hotels, bars, nightclubs, shopping areas, restaurants, and places of worship. Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times.

Recent incidents of extremist violence include a December 2022 suicide bombing at a police station in Bandung, West Java that killed one police officer, a March 2021 bomb attack against a church in Makassar, South Sulawesi which injured 20 civilians, and May 2018 bomb attacks against three churches in Surabaya, East Java which killed 15 civilians and injured 50.

Demonstrations are very common in Jakarta, Surabaya, and other large cities, but less common in Bali. You should avoid demonstrations and other mass gatherings, since even those intended to be peaceful can become violent. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests.  Demonstrations may become more frequent ahead of the Indonesian general elections scheduled for February 2024.

Currently, travel by U.S. government personnel to the provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) is restricted to mission-essential travel that is approved in advance by the Embassy. Papuan separatists have kidnapped foreigners in the past and a New Zealand national was kidnapped by a separatist group in Nduga Regency in February 2023.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime:   In the last year several American citizens were victims of violent and serious crimes in Indonesia, particularly in Bali. As with any major tourist destination, U.S. citizens traveling in Indonesia are especially encouraged to always remain vigilant of their surroundings and read the following advisories carefully. Take sensible measures to protect yourself and your belongings.  Closely monitor bags and luggage and carry only essential items. Take particular care of your passport and bank cards and avoid traveling alone.

Police presence and responsiveness is less than it is in the United States, making it more difficult to report crimes quickly and receive police attention. U.S. citizens often cite language barriers as a major hindrance when reporting crimes.

Pickpocketing, sexual assault, vehicle theft, armed car-jacking, snatch and grab robberies of cell phones and purses, and residential break-ins are common. Avoid traveling to isolated areas late at night. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly vehicles or individuals that might be following you.

Use a reputable taxi company or hire a taxi either at a major hotel or shopping center and ensure the driver’s identity card is visible. If you are booking a car via a mobile app, always ensure that the driver is the same as the person on the app, share your journey with a friend via the in-app option, and know the contact information for the app’s security center. Be aware of drivers falsely claiming to be registered with online ride hailing apps.

Credit card fraud is a common problem in Indonesia. Criminals have “skimmed” credit/debit cards to access and drain bank accounts. Use an ATM in a secure location, such as a major bank branch, and check the machine for evidence of tampering. Monitor your account statements regularly.

Tourists and Indonesians have suffered from serious illness and have even died from "drink-spiking” and drink poisoning incidents, particularly in clubs and nightspots in urban and tourist areas. There have been reports of sexual assaults and drink spiking in Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.  Make sure drinks are prepared in your sight and be careful about accepting drinks from strangers at clubs and parties or leaving drinks unattended. Tourists have also been robbed after taking visitors to their hotel rooms, and in some cases have found that their drinks were spiked. There have also been deaths and serious illnesses caused by drinking alcoholic drinks contaminated with methanol. These cases have occurred in bars, shops, and hotels in popular tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Sumatra.

Sexual Assault:  Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment, and rape occur. To minimize the risk, avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General.  

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Participating in demonstrations on a tourist visa can lead to deportation.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occur in Indonesia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:

Sexual assault:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should seek prompt medical assistance, contact the Embassy or nearest Consulate, and call the local police at 112. For a criminal investigation to be initiated by the police, the victim must make a full statement to the local police, in person.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault may choose to be accompanied by a translator.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. Follow this link for more information
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism and recreational activity industries are unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  Water sports, especially diving, can be hazardous in Indonesia with operators lightly regulated and hyperbaric chambers available only in Bali and Ambon.  Traffic is hazardous in Indonesia and U.S. citizens are frequently injured while riding rented motorbikes. Wearing a helmet is required by law. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, and only basic stabilization may be available. Serious injuries require medical evacuation to another country. First responders are generally unable to provide urgent medical treatment or to access areas outside of major cities. Boat and ferry incidents are frequent; vessels rarely carry appropriate sizes and numbers of safety vests; passengers are encouraged to bring their own. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage ( http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/health/insurance-providers.html ).

Please note:   The U.S. Embassy and Consulates do not pay the medical expenses of private U.S. citizens in Indonesia. It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure adequate medical insurance coverage or funds for medical expenses.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to Indonesian laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Criminal cases can take months or even years to resolve, and suspects can be held without charges for up to 60 days, and in many cases longer. Indonesia‘s revised criminal code, which takes effect January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay up-to-date.

If you are convicted of possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs in Indonesia, you may be subject to heavy fines, long jail sentences, and even the death penalty. Some prescription medications that are available in the United States are illegal in Indonesia. Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia. Marijuana, Cannabis, hash, “edibles,” and products containing CBD or THC remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation, or the death penalty. Illegal drug convictions often result in lengthy prison sentences, even at the simple possession level. Indonesian prison conditions are harsh and do not meet U.S. standards. Many prisons are overcrowded and provide minimal services. The costs of basic services, including healthcare, often must be borne by the prisoner.

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• nternational Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  LGBTQI+ status or conduct is not illegal, but local authorities sometimes take legal action against, or tolerate harassment of people engaging in LGBTQI+ relationships or openly expressing LGBTQI+ identity. Some local governments have passed laws criminalizing LGBTQI+ relationships. Same-sex marriages or civil unions recognized as valid in other countries are not legally recognized in Indonesia. The Indonesian Parliament revised the criminal code to include penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions, however, will not come into force until January 2026, and how they will be implemented is unclear.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details .

Sharia Law:   Sharia law is enforced in Aceh province and may exist unofficially or through local legislation in other areas. The law is intended for Muslims and should not apply to non-Muslims or foreign visitors. You should be respectful of local traditions, mindful of social norms, and seek guidance from local police if confronted by Sharia authorities. 

Earthquakes and Tsunamis:  There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes per year in Indonesia, or more than 10 per day on average. While most earthquakes are mild, some cause significant destruction and can trigger tsunamis. Tsunami warning systems may not be operable, or reports of tremors and tsunamis may be delayed. Local construction standards are lower than in the United States, and many structures including hotels and malls are prone to damage or collapse in an earthquake. Access to disaster-affected areas is often difficult and assistance from the U.S. Embassy may be limited.

If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, you should follow the instructions of local authorities, bearing in mind that a tsunami could arrive within minutes. The Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre issues tsunami warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is imminent or expected.

Volcanoes:  There are 127 active volcanoes in Indonesia. Eruptions frequently cause travel delays, displace local populations, and disrupt economic activities. 

Environmental Quality:  Air quality in Indonesia’s major cities can range from "unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "unhealthy." Current air quality data for Jakarta can be found on the Embassy’s  Air Quality  page. Tap water is not potable throughout Indonesia and should not be consumed. 

Mountain Hiking:  When hiking in mountainous areas, obtain current information on local conditions, travel with a reputable guide, have overseas medical insurance, and carry a local mobile phone. Never go hiking or climbing alone. Particularly dangerous trails may not be clearly labeled as such. Hikers on Puncak Jaya in Papua should have realistic primary and backup plans for climbing down the mountain. Tour operators have abandoned climbers. Taking shortcuts through private property is considered trespassing and is not a safe or legal alternative to a proper plan. If possible, ensure your hiking plans are registered and known to local authorities and/or tourism operators, as this helps identify your presence in these areas in the event of an emergency. 

Dual Nationality:  Indonesian law does not recognize dual nationality for adults over 18 years of age. U.S. citizens who are also Indonesian nationals may be required to renounce their Indonesian citizenship and may also be deported.  Please visit our Dual Nationality page .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Persons with disabilities will face severe difficulties in Indonesia as most public places and transportation facilities do not accommodate disabled people. The law in Indonesia prohibits discrimination against persons with mental and physical disabilities, but the law is seldom enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be extremely limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   Women traveling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment, and rape occur. To minimize the risk, avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. While domestic violence is illegal in Indonesia, these laws are rarely enforced. Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General and seek medical attention. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

The Government of Indonesia requires all non-Indonesian citizens entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Medical Care:  For emergency services in Indonesia dial 112.

Sanitation and health care conditions in Indonesia are far below U.S. standards. Routine medical care is available in all major cities, although most expatriates leave the country for all but the most basic medical procedures. Physicians and hospitals often expect payment or sizable deposits before providing medical care, even in emergency and/or life-threatening situations. See our  Embassy's  website for a list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals, but keep in mind that even in large cities the quality of English-speaking medical personnel will vary and there are often communication difficulties. In remote areas there may be no English-speaking medical personnel. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation, which can exceed over $100,000 per person.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Be aware that Indonesian authorities may consider some prescription drugs as illegal narcotics. The Indonesian government does not publish a list of which pharmaceuticals are considered contraband, and these decisions may be arbitrary.

U.S. citizens are advised against mailing or shipping by courier any medications to Indonesia. Indonesian authorities pay close attention to packages containing pharmaceuticals and may detain or arrest recipients of both prescription and over the counter medications. Even if a medication is legal or has been prescribed in the United States, it may be considered an illegal narcotic in Indonesia. U.S. citizens are advised to only hand carry prescription medications into the country, in the original packaging with a copy of any prescription. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates cannot assist you with the importation and/or release of medications.  

Marijuana, Cannabis, hash, “edibles,” and products containing CBD or THC remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes.  A medical prescription does not make it legal.

Local pharmacies carry a range of products of variable quality, availability, and cost. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a significant risk; patronize only reputable pharmacies. Malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, and  Zika virus  are mosquito borne diseases in Indonesia.  Prevention of mosquito bites  is strongly encouraged; malaria preventive medication is needed in some areas. Pregnant women should be aware that Indonesia is a  CDC Zika risk area  and that Zika can be spread by mosquitos as well as  sexual contact . Diarrheal diseases are very common throughout Indonesia and  food and water precautions  are recommended. Rabies is prevalent in animals and animal contact should be avoided.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. See the OPTIONAL stock language below for additional suggestions.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Indonesia.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Indonesia.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Water Quality

• Tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health Language

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Indonesia.

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Indonesia. Consider the impact smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Traffic in Indonesia is hazardous, congested, and undisciplined. Traffic signals are frequently ignored and often in disrepair. Motor vehicles share the roads with other forms of transportation such as pedicabs and pushcarts. Buses and trucks are often dangerously overloaded and travel at high speeds. Accidents between a car and a motorcycle are viewed as the fault of the driver of the car. Consider these risks before driving your own vehicle, especially if you are unaccustomed to Indonesian road conditions.  When an accident results in personal injury, Indonesian law requires both drivers to await the arrival of a police officer to report the accident.

Public Transportation:   Air, ferry, and road accidents that result in fatalities, injuries, and significant damage are common. While all forms of transportation are regulated in Indonesia, oversight is spotty, maintenance may not be properly performed, and rescue and emergency capacity are limited. Indonesia has experienced several fatal plane crashes and non-fatal runway overruns in recent years. Also in recent years, several ferry accidents and a train collision resulted in dozens of fatalities and even more injuries because of over-crowding and unsafe conditions.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Also, visit  Indonesia's national tourist office  online for road safety information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Indonesia’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Since 2014, several private pilots have inadvertently crossed into Indonesian airspace and have been detained and paid heavy fines. If you intend to fly on private aircraft through Indonesian airspace, get clearances from Indonesian aviation authorities before you depart. 

Maritime Safety and Security:   Inter-island travel by boat or ferry can be dangerous: storms can appear quickly, vessels may be over-crowded and lack basic safety equipment, and safety standards vary. Ferries have sunk, resulting in loss of life. The Indonesian Search and Rescue Agency records boat and ferry accidents resulting in injuries and deaths yearly. Boats and ferries used in tourism or general transportation frequently break down, stranding passengers or capsizing; not all boats are equipped with adequate life vests. Make sure you are satisfied with safety equipment and life jackets before travelling. 

Piracy:  Maritime piracy and other related crimes in and around Indonesian waters continue. Recent reports include thefts of valuables or cargo from boats that are in port and out at sea. Before traveling by sea, especially in the Strait of Malacca between Riau Province and Singapore, and in the waters north of Sulawesi and Kalimantan, review the current security situation with local authorities. Be vigilant, reduce opportunities for theft, establish secure areas on board, and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Indonesia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the  Maritime Administration website . Information may also be posted to the websites of the  U.S. Coast Guard  and the  National Geospace Intelligence Agency  (select “broadcast warnings”).

In recent years, private vessels have inadvertently anchored in Indonesian waters, especially near Singapore, and have been detained and paid heavy fines.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Indonesia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall due to security risks.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Indonesia (PDF 699.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire services, ambulance and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 110 or 112.

Tourist Police, Bali

Call (+0361) 759 687.

Tourist Police, Jakarta

Call (+201) 526 4073.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Papua (Papua), Papua Highlands (Papua Pegunungan), Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and South Papua (Papua Selatan).

Reconsider your need to travel  to the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan due to the risk of serious security incidents or demonstrations that may turn violent.

• There's an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Indonesia. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.
• Public protests and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and can turn violent with little notice. Expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests. Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates.
• Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. Domestic and international flights can be disrupted. Monitor Indonesia's  Volcano Observatory Notice  for the latest volcanic activity (Bahasa Indonesia and English),  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  and the  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  for updates. 
• There's been tension, including demonstrations and violence, in certain towns in the provinces of Papua,   Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan in recent years. Armed groups have stated that they're targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited. Armed groups have shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, in remote airports in Papua Pegunungan and Papua Tengah provinces.
• Petty and violent crime occurs in Indonesia. Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing occurs. Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Crimes involving taxis and taxi drivers occur. Solo women are at higher risk. Be alert in taxis, public transport, crowds, bars and nightclubs.
• Legal disputes over real estate are common, including in Bali. Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details, do your research and get legal advice.
• Natural disasters such as severe weather, floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis occur regularly. Weather conditions can change quickly during the wet season (October – April). Regularly check weather reports, monitor media and speak to your travel provider before continuing with planned activities. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• When undertaking adventure activities, ensure that functioning safety equipment is available, that you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for these activities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than in Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.
• Some medications, including prescription medications, drugs for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), all cannabis-based products including medicinal cannabis, cannabis-based oils and creams, hemp-based products, CBD, THC, hash and edibles, are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties, such as arrest and jail time, can apply even if you have a prescription. Make sure your  medication is legal in Indonesia .
• Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Full travel advice: Health

• Indonesia has revised its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.
• Penalties for drug offences include heavy fines, long prison sentences and the death penalty. Police target tourist destinations. 
• Some medications are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties can apply even if you have a prescription. It is also illegal to purchase prescription medications online or over the counter without an Indonesian prescription. Ensure you have a valid Indonesian prescription. See ' Health '.

The death penalty exists for some crimes in Indonesia.

• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Learn about local customs. Take care not to offend.
• Aceh province upholds aspects of sharia law. Sharia law applies to everyone, including travellers. Inform yourself about the laws, and be careful not to offend or break local laws. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. See the  Bali Provincial Government's  official website and  FAQs  for further information.
• If you're travelling to Indonesia for tourism, official government duties or business meetings, you can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  online at least 48 hours before your travel to Indonesia. This also applies if you're transiting through Indonesia at international airports, seaports and land crossings. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at some international airports, seaports or land crossings.
• To apply for the e-VOA or VOA, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months of passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) and a return or onward flight booking to another country.
• You may need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Indonesia for purposes not covered by the e-VOA or VOA. Check the latest entry requirements with your travel provider or an  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before travel. Entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice. Monitor media for the latest updates. 
• You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration  for arrival. You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.
• Travel requirements may change at short notice, including travel to Bali and Jakarta by air, land or sea. Contact your travel provider and monitor media for up-to-date details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy, Jakarta , the Australian Consulate-General, Bali , the Australian Consulate-General, Makassar or the Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

The terrorist threat in Indonesia is ongoing. Attacks could happen anywhere and anytime. This includes places that foreigners visit.

Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Remain respectful of religious and local customs.

Indonesian authorities continue to investigate and disrupt terrorist groups in Indonesia, including Bali.

Terrorist attacks are motivated by extreme beliefs. Both local grievances as well as events in other parts of the world could motivate extremists in Indonesia towards violence.

Recent terrorist attacks

In December 2022, an explosion occurred at a police station in Bandung, Jawa Barat, killing 2 and injuring 11.

In March 2021, 2 suicide bombers attacked a church in Makassar, injuring dozens.

In the past, police have said that terrorist suspects remain at large and may seek Western targets.

Indonesian security agencies continue to conduct operations against terrorist groups.

Terrorists in Indonesia may carry out small-scale violent attacks with little or no warning.

Be alert in places of worship, especially during periods of religious significance.

Terrorists have targeted places of worship in:

As well as places of worship, other possible targets by terrorists include:

• Indonesian government facilities, premises and symbols associated with the Indonesian Government
• police stations and checkpoints
• bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
• cinemas and theatres
• shopping centres, public transport and transport hubs
• airports and airlines
• clubs, including sporting clubs
• tourist areas and attractions, tour buses and tour groups
• outdoor recreation events

Supporters have committed additional acts of violence in response to high-profile extremists being detained or killed.

To protect yourself during a terrorist attack:

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• follow the advice of local authorities
• don't gather in a group after an attack
• don't gather in a group if you're evacuated from a building

Security remains at a high level at:

• the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the Consulates-General in Bali, Makassar and Surabaya

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Most events are announced before they happen; however, protests may occur with little or no notice.

Protests and events are often held near major government buildings and embassies in Jakarta, including the Australian Embassy.

Protests may also occur at any of Australia's Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar, at government buildings, or the offices of international organisations in Indonesia.

You can expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests.

Phone or email ahead for an appointment before going to the Embassy or the Consulates-General (see  Local contacts ).

Demonstrations and acts of violence can happen when courts try and sentence extremists.

Conflict between different communities can sometimes occur, including in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Local violence can also be directed at minority groups in other parts of Indonesia, including in Java.

If you're found to endanger security or public order, you may be prosecuted under Indonesia's Immigration laws, which may result in imprisonment or deportation.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor local media for the latest security updates
• plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on significant dates
• be prepared to change your travel plans
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

The provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan experience regular violent clashes involving armed groups, civilians, Indonesian police, and the military. Armed groups have stated that they are targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Many people have been killed and injured in clashes. This includes members of security forces, armed groups and civilians. Violent attacks have occurred in several areas of these provinces, including in and around Jayapura. There's a risk of more attacks.

On 23 February 2023, a riot broke out in Wamena, Papua Pegunungan, when a crowd attacked Indonesian security personnel following the arrest of two people accused of child kidnapping. 12 civilians and rioters were killed.

Violent attacks have occurred around the Freeport Mine in Papua Tengah.

Armed groups have:

• taken a New Zealand pilot hostage in Paro, Papua Pegunungan
• shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, at Beoga airport in Pupua Tengah province and Nop Goliat Dekai airport in Papua Pegunungan province. 
• killed people in attacks, including one Australian
• attacked vehicles using the road between Grasberg and Timika
• killed people in violent attacks in Puncak Jaya District, Papua Tengah
• more attacks are possible and could target infrastructure and national institutions.

A range of crimes, including violent crime, occur in Indonesia. Crimes can happen in popular tourist locations in Bali.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be aware of your surroundings
• be alert in crowds
• understand the potential crime risks

Theft, robbery  and bag and phone snatching have occurred. These crimes can sometimes involve violence. Opportunistic crime such as pickpocketing occurs.

Be careful of thieves:

• on motorcycles targeting pedestrians
• in upmarket shopping malls
• in crowded public transport
• at traffic lights targeting people in stopped cars
• at bars and nightclubs
• when entering accommodation, including villas in Bali

Keep bags and valuables out of sight in vehicles.

If you're travelling on foot, walk:

• on footpaths
• away from the curb
• with your bag held away from traffic

Sexual assault

If you're a victim of sexual assault :

• get immediate medical assistance. If you have any doubts about seeking medical assistance after a sexual assault, contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate in Indonesia (see  Local contacts ) as quickly as possible.
• make a full statement to local police, in person, so they can conduct a criminal investigation. You may wish to seek consular help before you visit the police station. Contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ).

Local police can only investigate a crime after you've left Indonesia if you've reported it.

Your sworn statement, or statements by witnesses, can be used as evidence in criminal court proceedings.

You don't always need to be in Indonesia for trial. Neither do witnesses who live outside of Indonesia.

Counselling support

Should you wish to speak to a counsellor, you can call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ). They can connect you to counselling hotlines and services.

• Reducing the risk of sexual assault

Bars and nightclubs

Be alert in bars and nightclubs. Drink-spiking and snatching of valuables may occur if you're not alert.

Drinks may be contaminated with drugs or toxic substances. See  Health .

Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.

Never accept drinks, food, gum, cigarettes, vapes or e-cigarettes from people you've just met.

• Partying safely

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card, online banking and ATM fraud occurs in Indonesia.

Check your bank statements.

Make sure your bank doesn't block your cards. Tell your bank you'll be visiting Indonesia.

Never let your card out of your sight. This includes when you pay in restaurants.

Shield your PIN from sight.

Some vendors install hidden cameras and use card skimmers.

Don’t click on unknown links in WhatsApp or mobile phone text messages, particularly if your phone is linked to mobile banking.

Use ATMs at controlled and secure places, such as:

• shopping centres

Scams and confidence tricks

Beware of scams and confidence tricks.

Only exchange money at authorised money changers. Authorised money changers can also be found on the  Bali Foreign Exchange website . Unauthorised money changers have been known to scam foreign tourists in Bali and elsewhere.

All types of gambling are illegal in Indonesia.

Australians have lost large sums of money in card game scams run by organised gambling gangs, particularly in Bali. See Local laws

Some tourists have been robbed or planted with drugs after taking new acquaintances back to their hotel rooms. In some cases, their drinks were spiked.

Legal disputes over the purchase of real estate are common, including in Bali, involving:

• holiday clubs and resorts
• timeshare schemes

Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details:

• thoroughly research the proposal
• get legal advice and know your rights, especially before you sign any documents

Using taxis

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Crimes involving unregistered taxis include:

• taxis departing before the passenger can take their baggage from the vehicle
• taxi drivers robbing or temporarily holding passengers, including in urban areas
• taxi drivers forcing passengers to withdraw money at ATMs before releasing them

Lone female travellers are at higher risk of crime.

If you're in an incident involving a taxi, leave the taxi and the immediate area if it's safe to do so.

To protect yourself from overcharging and scams:

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters working
• ensure the driver's identification card is visible
• book via your phone, on an official taxi company mobile app, from inside an airport, or at stands at major hotels

See Travel .

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

On 7 February 2023, a New Zealand pilot was taken hostage by an armed group in Paro, Papua Pegunungan.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Adventure activities

Many businesses don't follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes transport and tour operators, water sports providers, hotels, restaurants and shops.

It may affect adventure activities, such as:

• bungee jumping
• scuba diving and snorkelling 
• chairlift or gondola rides

In the past, Australians have been seriously injured or died while participating in adventure activities. If you require intensive care medical treatment, emergency surgery or medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about safety, search and rescue procedures
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• check with your travel provider on vessel capacity limits before embarking on sea, land or air travel
• check weather and ocean conditions, and whether the vessel has had any mechanical issues, on the day and before continuing with water activities or sea travel
• check where the nearest medical facilities are

If proper safety equipment isn't available or you're unsure of the provider's safety or maintenance procedures, use another provider.

Trekking and climbing

Some mountain treks suit only experienced climbers. Travel with a guide and check the level of difficulty beforehand.

Many trekking options may be on or around an active volcano. Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Volcanic and seismic activity may continue for some time. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, check with local authorities before climbing and check:

• Bureau of Meteorology  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia) for daily updates on status and alert levels
• National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB)  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Swimming safety

People have drowned in coastal areas, including in Bali, due to rough seas, strong currents, or from swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving in areas where there is frequent passage of boats, resulting in collisions.

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Saltwater crocodiles are in rivers throughout Indonesia. Avoid swimming around river estuaries and seek local advice in other locations. 

If you plan to spend time in or on the water:

• regularly check weather reports as sea conditions can change rapidly
• take warnings seriously
• check media and local sources for information about potential dangers
• speak to your travel provider about safety equipment and weather conditions before continuing with planned activities
• take a friend or family member with you when you undertake swimming or water activities
• be careful when swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving near motor-powered boats or where there is frequent passage of boats
• ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities

Ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities.

Climate and natural disasters

Indonesia experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• landslides and mudslides
• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes
• storms resulting in turbulent sea conditions
• tsunamis and high wave events

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• check the media and local sources for information
• don't undertake sea, land or air travel if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia) 

Floods and mudslides

Floods , landslides and mudslides occur regularly during the wet season from October to April, with some severe events resulting in injury, displacement, death or damaged infrastructure.

Heavy rains can cause significant flooding in urban areas, including the greater Jakarta region, causing disruption to transportation. Monitor the local media for updates.

Walking and driving in flooded areas can be dangerous. Flood waters may hide uncovered drainage ditches.

Volcanic activity may escalate with little or no notice, leading to flight disruptions and airport closures, including in surrounding provinces. Contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

There are 147 volcanoes in Indonesia. 76 of them are active volcanoes and could erupt at any time.

Volcanic alert levels and exclusion zones may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice. Volcanic activity can disrupt domestic and international flights. There are 4 volcano alert levels in Indonesia; 1 - normal, 2 - advisory, 3 - watch, 4 - warning.

Before you travel to areas that are prone to volcanic activity, monitor media and ensure you read the Indonesian Government's latest advice on current volcanic activity, including:

• Volcanic Activity Report  by Indonesia's Multiplatform Application for Geohazard Mitigation and Assessment (MAGMA) (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Volcano Activity and Observatory Notices  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• MAGMA Indonesia Map of Latest Volcano Levels and Climate Information  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Bureau of Meteorology's  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre

If there's volcanic activity:

• avoid the area
• take official warnings seriously and adhere to exclusion zones
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• read our advice on Volcanic eruptions while travelling

Volcanic ash can cause breathing difficulties. The risk is higher for people with chronic respiratory illnesses, including:

Recent and frequent volcanic activity has included:

• Mount Ile Lewetolok in East Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Timur)
• Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Flores Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur
• Mount Marapi in West Sumatra
• Mount Anak Krakatau, to the south of Sumatra
• Mount Merapi, near Yogyakarta
• Mt Dukono in North Sulawesi
• Mount Semeru, near Malang, East Java
• Mount Agung in Bali
• Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra

Some trekking routes are on or near active volcanoes, including Mount Agung and Mount Batur in Bali, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, Mount Merapi near Yogyakarta, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in East Java. See 'Trekking and climbing'.

If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and check if any restrictions apply.

If a volcanic eruption occurs:

• make a backup plan in case you're affected
• contact your airline or travel insurer to confirm flight schedules and get help
• keep in touch with family and friends
• Learn more about  volcanic eruptions  (Geoscience Australia)
• See practical advice and information about  volcanic eruptions  (US CDC)
• See worldwide  volcanic activity reports  in real-time (GDACS)

Earthquakes

Indonesia is in an active earthquake region. It has a high level of earthquake activity, that sometimes triggers tsunamis.

There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes across Indonesia every year. Around 70 to 100 of these are over 5.5 magnitude.

Earthquakes can cause death, injury and significant damage to infrastructure.

Strong earthquakes can occur anywhere in Indonesia. They are less common in Kalimantan and south-west Sulawesi.

To stay safe during an earthquake:

• know the emergency plans at your accommodation
• take precautions to avoid exposure to debris and hazardous materials, including asbestos
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  (Bahasa Indonesia) or BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app (English and Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake  (English)

Forest fires and smoke haze

During the dry season in April to November, widespread forest fires can cause smoke haze resulting in poor air quality across parts of Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands, central Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Smoke haze could affect your health and travel plans.

Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions.

• ASEAN Regional Haze Situation
• Smartraveller advice on Bushfires

Tsunamis and high wave events

The Indian and Pacific Oceans experience more frequent, large and destructive tsunamis than other parts of the world.

There are many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches.

High wave events can happen throughout coastal regions and between islands. They're caused by strong weather conditions and storms.

If you plan to surf, undertake water activities or travel by sea, check local conditions regularly.

If there’s a tsunami or high wave event: 

• don't travel by sea if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre  issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is expected
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  with the latest list of earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 5.0 on the Richter scale (Bahasa Indonesia) or  BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency page  on what to do before, during and after an earthquake

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Indonesia.

The  International Maritime Bureau (IMB)  issues weekly piracy reports.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check  IMB piracy  reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures
• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise
• International Maritime Bureau

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including emergency treatment and medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Before you travel, confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away, including on all forms of transport you plan to take
• whether it covers medical evacuation in the event of hospitalisation or injury
• any exclusions to your policy

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia.

If you plan to bring over-the-counter or prescription medication, check if it's legal in Indonesia by contacting the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and carry it in its original packaging. Purchasing prescription medication online in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller prior to your purchase.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for medical treatment or use

If you're caught with illegal medicine, you could face detention, fines or harsher penalties. You could face charges even if an Australian doctor prescribed the medication.

Ask the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra for advice before you travel.

Medicinal cannabis and cannabis-based products

Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and creams, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

• Medications

Health Risks

Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill, including in Bali, is significantly below the standard available in Australia. Medical evacuation may not be possible.

The Australian Government cannot guarantee your access to hospitals and other health services in Indonesia. 

Medical evacuation to Australia for medical conditions, is possible but is very expensive and may not be covered by travel insurance. Check your policy before you travel.

Ban on sale of liquid/syrup medication

The Indonesian Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised local health workers and pharmacists to stop selling liquid/syrup medication, including commonly used medications containing paracetamol and cough syrups. MoH and the Indonesian Paediatrician Association (IDAI) received reports of a sharp increase in cases of Atypical Progressive Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in children , especially under the age of 5 years.

Insect-borne illnesses

Insect-borne illnesses are common throughout the year.

To protect yourself from disease:

• research your destination
• ask locals for advice
• make sure your accommodation is mosquito-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Dengue  occurs throughout Indonesia, including Bali, Jakarta and other major cities.

Dengue is common during the rainy season.

Australian health authorities have reported an increase in dengue infections in people returning from Bali in recent years.

Consult your travel doctor for further information on available vaccines and their suitability for your individual circumstances.

Zika virus  can occur in Indonesia.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

The  Australian Department of Health and Aged Care  advises pregnant women to:

• discuss any travel plans with their doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria , including chloroquine-resistant strains, is widespread in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah, Papua Selatan, Papua Barat Daya, Papua Barat, Maluku and Nusa Tenggara Timur. There is no malaria transmission in Jakarta.

• Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Japanese encephalitis and filariasis

Japanese encephalitis  and  filariasis  occur in Indonesia, especially in rural agricultural areas.

Japanese encephalitis has been present in Australian travellers returning from Indonesia, including Bali.

Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers. 

• Infectious diseases

Drink poisoning

People have been poisoned by alcoholic drinks contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol and arak (a traditional rice-based spirit). Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks.

Cases of drink poisoning have been reported in Bali and Lombok.

Contaminated drinks have included:

• local spirits
• spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails
• brand name alcohol

To protect yourself from drink poisoning:

• consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages
• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to drinking too much. However, they are usually stronger.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include:

• vision problems

Vision problems may include:

• blindness, blurred or snowfield vision
• changes in colour perception
• difficulty looking at bright lights
• dilated pupils
• flashes of light
• tunnel vision

If you suspect that you or someone you're travelling with may have been poisoned, act quickly. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability.

Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the Indonesian police.

Magic mushrooms

Don't consume magic mushrooms. They're illegal.

Australians have become sick or injured after taking magic mushrooms.

Australians have been in trouble with local police after taking magic mushrooms, particularly in Bali.

Magic mushrooms can cause major health problems, including:

• erratic behaviour
• severe hallucinations

Rabies is a risk throughout Indonesia, especially in:

• Nusa Tenggara Timur, including Labuan Bajo
• South Sulawesi
• West Kalimantan
• Nias, off the west coast of Sumatra

To protect yourself from rabies:

• avoid direct contact with dogs
• don't feed or pat animals
• avoid contact with other animals, including bats and monkeys.

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination. 

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly for 15 minutes
• seek urgent medical attention.

Rabies treatment in Indonesia may be limited, including the rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin availability. If you're bitten, you may need to return to Australia or travel to another country for immediate treatment.

You're at risk of contracting rabies if you visit a market where live animals and fresh food are sold because:

• live rabies-positive dogs may be present
• rabies-positive dog meat may be sold as food

Selling dog meat for human consumption is a breach of government disease control regulations.

Avoid contact with monkeys, even in places where you're encouraged to interact with them. This includes:

• popular markets
• tourist destinations
• sanctuaries

Legionnaires' disease

Cases of Legionnaires' disease have been reported in people who have travelled to Bali. Travellers who are unwell with flu-like symptoms within 10 days of returning from Bali are advised to consult their GPs.

• Legionnaires' disease warning for Bali travellers  (Western Australian Government Department of Health) 
• Legionnaires’ disease  (Better Health Channel, Victorian Government Department of Health)
• Legionnaires' disease  (World Health Organization)

Cases of poliovirus (type 1) have been reported in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Poliovirus (type 2) cases have been reported in the provinces of Aceh, East, West and Central Java. There may be unreported cases in other provinces in Indonesia.

Ensure that you're vaccinated against polio.

• Factsheet on poliovirus types  (World Health Organization)
• Health emergencies information for Indonesia  (World Health Organization)

Periodic outbreaks of measles continue to be reported in Indonesia, including Bali.

You need 2 doses of vaccine 4 weeks apart to be fully vaccinated against measles.

If you have symptoms of measles, seek medical attention.

Measles is highly infectious. Call before attending a healthcare facility.

Nipah Virus and Yellow Fever

There are no cases of  Nipah virus  or  Yellow Fever  in Indonesia. You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw food, such as salads

To minimise the risk of food poisoning, only eat meat from reputable suppliers.

Seek urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Seafood toxins

You can become sick from naturally occurring seafood toxins, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. The dye often causes serious skin reactions.

Before you get any tattoo, check the hygiene and safety of your tattoo provider.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.

Hospitals expect families to provide support to patients, including all financial support.

Psychiatric and psychological services are limited in Indonesia. Hospital staff may use physical restraints on patients.

When diving in Indonesia, there is a risk that you may experience decompression illness. An illness may occur when a diver ascends to the water surface too quickly and may have severe consequences. Understand the risks before you dive. 

Decompression chambers are available in various areas, including the following locations:

• Bali's Sanglah General Hospital
• Siloam Hospital in Labuan Bajo
• Hospitals in Jakarta, Balikpapan, Bintan, Medan, Makassar, Raja Ampat (Waisai), Maluku, Tual and Manado near popular dive sites 

Before admitting patients, hospitals usually need:

• guarantee of payment from the patient or their next of kin (family or friend)
• confirmation of medical insurance
• deposit payment 

There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Indonesia. 

The Australian Government cannot provide guarantee of payment, confirmation of medical insurance or a deposit payment for services.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Check your insurance policy before you travel. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs. It's best to check with your travel provider on the location and functionality of decompression chambers and other medical facilities available in the area before undertaking remote travel.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Indonesian Parliament has passed revisions to its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.

Indonesia has signed into law revisions to the Electronic and Information Transactions Law (ITE Law). Tough penalties apply for defamation, hate speech, spreading hoaxes and uploading immoral content to the Internet. The law applies both within and outside Indonesia.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

You may face heavy fines or jail for consuming or possessing even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana. Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and cream, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

Some prescription medications that are available in Australia are illegal in Indonesia. Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Magic mushrooms are illegal. Indonesian police work to prevent their distribution.

Police target illegal drug use and possession across Indonesia. Police often target popular places and venues in Bali, Lombok and Jakarta.

• Carrying or using drugs

Local labour laws can change at short notice. This can affect expatriate workers.

Under Indonesian law, you must always carry identification. For example, your:

• Australian passport; and
• Resident's Stay Permit (if applicable)

Gambling is illegal.

Property laws are strict, seek legal advice before acquiring property in Indonesia.

It's sometimes illegal to take photographs in Indonesia. Obey signs banning photography. If in doubt, get advice from local officials. See Safety .

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Take care not to offend.

Find out what customs apply at your destination.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal in Indonesia, except in the province of Aceh. Same-sex relationships in Aceh may attract corporal punishment. Visible displays of same sex relationships could draw unwanted attention.

Some laws and regulations can be applied in a way that discriminates against the LGBTI community, including for pornography and prostitution.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Indonesia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during this time. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence and follow the advice of local authorities.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Aceh is governed as a special territory, not a province, and has a degree of special autonomy.

Some aspects of sharia law are upheld. This includes regulations and punishments that don't apply in other parts of Indonesia.

Local sharia police enforce sharia law.

Sharia law applies to anyone in Aceh, including:

• foreigners (expats and travellers)
• non-Muslims

Sharia law doesn't allow:

• drinking alcohol
• prostitution
• same-sex relationships
• extra-marital sex
• co-habitation before marriage

It also requires a conservative standard of dress.

Learn about the laws in Aceh. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Dual citizenship

Indonesia doesn't allow dual nationality for adults, and you may be prosecuted by Immigration authorities should you be found to hold valid passports of two nationalities. If you entered Indonesia on your non-Australian citizenship passport, Indonesian Immigration will require you to exit Indonesia on that nationality's passport.

A child of Indonesian and Australian parents can maintain citizenship of both countries until the age of 18 years. Before a dual Australian-Indonesian citizen minor travels from Indonesia, additional identity documentation may be required from Indonesian Immigration. Check with Indonesian Immigration or the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel.

• Embassy and Consulate of Indonesia
• Information on limited dual citizenship
• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Bali Tourism Levy

The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. Exemption from payment of the levy applies to transit passengers and certain visa holders. See the Bali Provincial Government's  official website and FAQs for further information.

e-Visa on Arrival and Visa on Arrival

You can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia if you are travelling for tourism, business meetings, purchasing goods or transiting only. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying.

You can still apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports, seaports and land crossings, including Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Makassar, Lombok, Batam, Medan, Manado, Aceh, Padang, Tanjung Pinang and Yogyakarta, if you do not apply for an e-VOA at least 48 hours in advance of your travel to Indonesia.

The e-VOA or VOA can be used for tourism, official government duties, business meetings, or to transit through Indonesia. You cannot transit in Indonesia without an e-VOA or VOA.

Additional requirements apply if you are travelling on government duties.

For the latest list of entry points for the e-VOA or VOA, refer to the  Directorate General of Immigration's list of land border crossings, international airports, and international seaports .

The e-VOA and VOA cost IDR 500,000 (approximately $A 50), with the e-VOA charging a small online processing fee.

For the VOA, some airports, including Jakarta's international airport, are only accepting cash payment. Card payment facilities are available at Bali's international airport. ATM facilities may be in high demand. Be prepared to pay in cash if required. 

The visa is valid for a 30 day stay and can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by applying at an immigration office within Indonesia. Ensure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine and deportation.

To apply for a regular VOA, you must show:

• your ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) 
• a return flight booking to Australia or onward flight booking to another country

Contact your travel agent, airline, or your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  for details.

Other visas

If you're entering Indonesia from a port or airport that does not issue a visa on arrival, or you're visiting Indonesia for a purpose not allowed under the e-VOA or VOA conditions, you must apply for a visa in advance of travel. Check the  Indonesian Immigration  website for further information, or contact your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia .

Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation.

• check your visa and permit, and contact the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) for advice specific to your needs
• if you use an agent to extend your visa or stay permit, use only reputable companies
• if you have specific enquiries on visas or stay permits, contact DGI's Customer Service team via WhatsApp on +62 821 1295 3298

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and entry rules.

You can't work or conduct research in Indonesia unless you have the appropriate visa. Fines of IDR1,000,000 (approx. $A 100) per day apply for the maximum 60 day overstay period.

If you breach Indonesian immigration regulations, you may face:

• deportation
• re-entry bans

You may not be allowed to enter Indonesia if you have a criminal record. This is regardless of how long ago the offence took place. If you're concerned, contact an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia before you travel.

Indonesian Immigration and visa decisions are final. The Australian Government can't help you.

• Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia

Border measures

You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration for arrival . You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.

Check entry requirements with your travel provider or the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before you travel.

You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

Departure from Indonesia

Indonesia, including Bali, currently has an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease affecting animals. In preparing to travel to Australia, read Smartraveller's advice on  biosecurity and border controls . Measures include cleaning dirty shoes, clothing or equipment before boarding your flight to Australia and not packing meat or dairy products. On your Incoming Passenger Declaration, you must declare any meat, dairy or animal products and any of your travel in rural areas or near animals (e.g., farms, zoos, markets).

Other formalities

If you're staying in a private residence, not a hotel, register when you arrive with both:

• the local Rukun Tetangga Office
• local police

If you plan to be in Indonesia for more than 30 days:

• register with the local immigration office
• make sure you have the right visa
• Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra

Indonesia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave Indonesia. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. You can end up stranded or returned back to your previous port overseas at your own cost, if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months from the date you enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia.

Indonesia does not accept entry with an emergency passport, even if it is valid for more than 6 months. Ensure you enter Indonesia on a valid ordinary, official, or diplomatic passport.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply these rules inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

Damaged Passports

Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Normal wear and tear, including water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages, can be considered damaged. 

It's important that:

• there are no tears or cuts in the passport pages, especially the photo page
• everything on the photo page is legible and clear
• there are no marks across your photo or in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) on the photo page
• no pages have been removed
• there is no alteration or tampering

If you're not sure about the condition of your passport, call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232 or contact your nearest  Australian embassy or consulate overseas . We may need to see your passport to assess it.

• Passport Services  
• Damaged and faulty passports  
• Using and protecting your passport  

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Declare cash in excess of IDR100,000,000 or equivalent when you arrive and leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

IDR100,000,000 is worth about $A10,000.

Local travel

Travel permits.

You may need a travel permit or Surat Keterangan Jalan to travel to some areas of the Papua provinces.

Check if you need a permit with the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  or with your travel provider.

Mobile Phone Reception and Wi-Fi

Mobile phone reception and Wi-Fi are not always available, including in remote areas and some resort islands. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for more than 90 days and would like to use your mobile phone purchased overseas, you'll need to register your mobile phone IMEI number with  Indonesian Customs  within the first 60 days of your stay. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for less than 90 days, you can visit the local cellular operator/provider booth at the airport to get an access period to use the Indonesian cellular network, which is only valid for 90 days and includes data roaming.

A customs payment may be required, or a tourist SIM card can be purchased for short-term stays. You can use Wi-Fi networks without registration.

To stay in communication and avoid mobile service interruptions: 

• check mobile coverage with your service provider
• register your mobile device with  Indonesian Customs  on arrival if you plan to connect to the mobile network 

Driving permit

To drive in Indonesia, you need either:

• an Indonesian licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Check that your licence or permit is appropriate for the type of vehicle you're driving.

Your Australian licence isn't enough.

Your travel insurer will deny any claims you make if:

• you're unlicensed
• you don't hold the correct class of licence

Road travel

Traffic can be extremely congested.

Road users are often unpredictable or undisciplined.

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Indonesia than in Australia. Drive defensively. Some traffic incidents can escalate into violent disputes quickly.

Consider hiring a taxi or a driver who is familiar with local roads and traffic conditions.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents have killed and injured foreigners, including Australians. This includes in tourist areas, particularly Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.

If you're riding a motorbike and there's an accident, you'll often be assumed to be at fault. You may be expected to compensate all parties.

If you hire a motorbike:

• make sure your insurance policy covers you
• check if any policy restrictions apply, for example if you're not licensed to ride a motorcycle in Australia

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses, trains and the metro rail can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commute times

Safety standards may not be observed.

• Transport and getting around safely

Only use licensed official metered taxis. 

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters
• book via phone or an official taxi company mobile app

You can book licensed official metered taxis

• on the taxi company's official mobile app
• from inside airports
• at stands at major hotels

Unofficial operators can have taxis that look similar to those run by reputable companies. Make sure the taxi meter is working before you get into the taxi. 

See  Safety .

Rail travel

Inter-city rail networks operate on the islands of Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

Commuter trains operate in Java, including Jakarta.

Trains can be crowded, particularly:

• during peak commuter times

Travel between islands

Travel by ferry or boat can be dangerous.

Passenger and luggage limits aren't always observed.

Equipment may not be properly maintained, and they may not have GPS or emergency communications equipment.

There may not be enough life jackets. It's unlikely that the crew will have life jackets for children.

In March 2024, a ferry sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta, resulting in one death, and a liveaboard boat caught fire and sank in Raja Ampat, Papua Barat Daya, requiring several passengers to be rescued.

In August 2023, two crew died after a boat carrying passengers sank in the Banyak Islands, Aceh, and three people went missing after a ship sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta.

In July 2023, 15 people died after a ferry sank off Sulawesi Island.

In January 2023, 23 passengers and 6 crew were rescued after an inter-island ferry sank while returning from Nusa Penida to Sanur Beach, Bali.

In May 2022, 19 people died after a ferry sank in the Makassar Strait.

In June 2018, a ferry sank on Lake Toba in Sumatra and 100s of people died.

If you plan to travel by sea between islands:

• make sure any ferry or boat you board has appropriate safety equipment, GPS and communication equipment, and life jackets
• wear a life jacket at all times
• take enough life jackets for all children travelling with you
• ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards before you travel
• check sea, weather conditions and forecasts before embarking on boat or ferry travel, and delay travel if conditions are not safe

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Avoid travelling by water after dark unless the vessel is properly equipped. Avoid travel during wet weather or storms.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Indonesia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that have operating bans or restrictions within the EU. See the  EU list of banned airlines .

Australian travellers should make their own decisions on which airlines to travel with.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Search and rescue services

Medical emergencies and ambulance.

SMS 1717 for Jakarta Police

Police Stations in Bali

Refer to the Bali Tourism Board’s list of  police stations in Bali

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Jakarta 

Jalan Patra Kuningan Raya Kav. 1-4 Jakarta Selatan 12950

Phone: (+62 21) 2550 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: indonesia.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia X: @DubesAustralia Instagram: @KeDubesAustralia

Make an appointment online or call (+62 21) 2550 5500 or (+62 21) 2550 5555.

Australian Consulate-General, Bali

Jalan Tantular 32 Renon Denpasar Bali 80234

Phone: (+62 361) 2000 100 Email: [email protected] Website: bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au X: @KonJenBali Instagram:  @konjenbali

Australian Consulate-General, Makassar

Wisma Kalla Lt. 7 Jalan Dr Sam Ratulangi No. 8 Makassar South Sulawesi 90125

Phone: (+62 411) 366 4100 Email: [email protected] Website: makassar.consulate.gov.au Facebook: Australian Consulate-General, Makassar, Sulawesi X: @KonJenMakassar Instagram:  @konjenmakassar

Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya

Level 3 ESA Sampoerna Center Jl. Dokter.Ir. H. Soekarno No. 198 Klampis Ngasem, Sukolilo, Surabaya

Phone: (+62 31) 9920 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: surabaya.consulate.gov.au Instagram: @KonJenSurabaya

Check the websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to support British nationals in making informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where the FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Mount Ruang, Northern Sulawesi

FCDO advises against all travel to within 6km of the crater of Mount Ruang in Northern Sulawesi. This is an exclusion zone put into place by the local authorities. Mount Ruang erupted on 16 April 2024.

Mount Marapi, Western Sumatra

FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the crater of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra.

Mount Sinabung area, Karo Regency

FCDO advises against all travel within 5 km of the Mount Sinabung crater in Karo Regency, North Sumatra.

Mount Semeru area, Lumajang Regency

FCDO advises against all travel within 5 km of the crater of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java. FCDO also advises against all travel to the southeast area of Mount Semeru along the Besuk Kobokan river (approximately 13 km from the crater). You should stay at least 500 m from the Besuk Kobokan riverbank.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and potential expenses in an emergency.

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Indonesia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Indonesia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio January 05, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka
• Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Indonesia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Indonesia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Indonesia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Indonesia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Indonesia poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Indonesia are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Indonesia who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Indonesia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Indonesia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Indonesia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Indonesia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Indonesia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Indonesia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Indonesia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Indonesia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Indonesia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Indonesia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Indonesia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Indonesia, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Indonesia .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Indonesia.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Indonesia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

50 Indonesian Phrases You Need to Know for Traveling in Indonesia

Indonesia, being one of the most diverse countries in the world, is home to hundreds of ethnic groups with hundreds of different languages. From the magnificent waterfall and rice fields of Bali to the bustling city of Jakarta, it is where traditional lifestyle meets modernity. Indonesia is also home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World — the Borobudur Temple. There is certainly so much more to this incredible country that is well worth exploring.

"Bahasa" means "Language"

It won't be hard to find someone who can speak English, especially in touristy areas and big cities. However, it is best if you learn some key phrases to ease your stay and to enjoy more of a local experience. The official language of Indonesia is called Bahasa Indonesia. Many resources refer to the language simply as “bahasa”. The Indonesian language is the national standard alongside all the hundreds of local languages.

How Different is Spoken from Written?

One difficulty that Indonesian language learners encounter is how different the spoken form is to the written form. Although Indonesian has a standard written form, everybody speaks colloquially and this differs from place to place. For instance, “kakak” in Jakarta can refer to both male and female older sibling, and “abang” refers to older brother in Medan. These vocabulary differences can cause funny exchanges from time to time. Nevertheless, you won't encounter any problems communicating with Indonesians anywhere in the country using the standard language.

Indonesian Phrases for Traveling

The following are some key travel phrases divided into five categories that could assist you while you are traveling in Indonesia. Please note that Indonesian has different registers and the one I present here is the colloquial register. Also note that most sentences are not direct translations nor expressed in the same way as the corresponding English phrases, but should convey the same meanings in the context they are meant to be used.

Airport (Bandara)

Taxi (taksi), hotel (hotel), getting around (berkeliling), common problems (masalah umum).

The formal “you” is commonly translated as “Anda” but it is rarely used. “Bapak” for male and “Ibu” for female is more widely used. Indonesian language has two forms of “we” — the inclusive “kita” and the exclusive “kami”. With the growing number of foreign influence, Indonesian speakers have adopted quite a lot of modern Western words, mainly from English. For example, “duty-free store” is “toko bebas pajak” but it is more common to hear the English words. Thus, if you forget the Indonesian word, try to say it in English.

Always remember these three magic words: “permisi (excuse me)”, “maaf (sorry)”, and “terima kasih (thank you)”.

Have fun traveling!

🇮🇩 Learn to Speak Indonesian Fluently and Effectively

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Glossika uses sentence patterns to help you internalize grammatical structures. Our spaced repetition audio training also gets your mouth muscles familiar with speaking Indonesian. You'll learn to communicate in real-life situations, and achieve fluency by training your speaking and listening! Sign up now and get your free training started:

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Foreign Office travel advice: New guidance issued for UK holidaymakers travelling to Indonesia including Bali and Lombok due to passport rules

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its Indonesia travel advice including hotspots Bali and Lombok due to passport rules

UK holidaymakers have been issued an Indonesia travel warning as the Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance. Travellers that are heading to the country, including popular hotspots Bali, Lombok and Jakarta, are being warned that they must follow certain passport rules.

Holidaymakers could be refused entry if they do not meet requirements. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its guidance on Tuesday 23 April, advising travellers from the UK to have passports which are valid for at least six months after the date of arrival in Indonesia. Passports must also have at least two blank pages inside.

The FCDO said: "To enter Indonesia, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least six months after the date you arrive and have at least two blank pages. Check with your travel provider or the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements."

Passport rules have also been introduced elsewhere since Brexit. UK tourists travelling to EU countries need a passport valid for three months after the date they plan to leave.

It also must have been issued within the past 10 years. You will need to apply for a new passport to avoid any disruptions to your trip.

The British Embassy in Stockholm has also issued passport advice to fans flocking to the Swedish city of Malmö to watch the 2024 Eurovision song contest. The Embassy said in an update that travelling fans should consider taking a picture of their passport or other important documents, such as tickets, on your phone. This would help to assist in any instance where you lose such important documents when travelling abroad for an event.

Passports when entering and leaving Sweden, or any country in the Schengen area, need to be stamped. If they are not stamped, border guards may assume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit. 

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New International Travel Regulations to Enter Indonesia as of 10 November 2022

JAKARTA, 21 December 2022 - As an immediate response to recover tourism industry and relaxing the international travel restrictions, COVID-19 Task Force issued the Circular Letter of the COVID-19 Task Force Number 25 of 2022 concerning Health Protocols for International Travels during the COVID-19 Pandemic . 

Coordinator of Expert Team and Spokesperson for the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, Prof. Wiku Adisasmito, stated that the adjustment to the control mechanism for international travel was urgently needed. "The COVID-19 policy must also be adaptive with the dynamics of the virus, including the dynamics of its variants that occur globally," Wiku said.

• International Travel

Here are the new international travel regulations according to the Circular Letter of the COVID-19 Task Force Number 25 of 2022 concerning Health Protocols for International Travels during the COVID-19 Pandemic

• The general requirements regarding health protocols for international travelers are as follows:
• Wearing 3 ply of fabric mask or medical grade mask, covering nose, mouth, and chin at indoor settings or any crowded situations;
• Replacing the mask regularly within every 4 hours, and dispose the waste in the proper place;
• Washing hands regularly with water and soap or hand sanitizers;
• Maintaining social distance for a minimum of 1.5 meters and avoiding crowds; and
• Keeping in mind that it is advised not to have one-way or two-way communication by telephone or in person throughout the trip using public transportation modes of land, rail, sea, river, lake, ferry, and air.
• All International travelers, both Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals, can enter Indonesia through the entry points assigned, which are:

a. Airports

• Soekarno Hatta International Airport, Banten;
• Juanda International Airport, East Java;
• Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali;
• Hang Nadim International Airport, Riau Islands;
• Sam Ratulangi International Airport, North Sulawesi;
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport, West Nusa Tenggara;
• Kualanamu International Airport, North Sumatra;
• Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, South Sulawesi;
• Yogyakarta International Airport, Yogyakarta;
• Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau.
• Sultan Iskandar Muda, Aceh;
• Minangkabau, West Sumatra;
• Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, East Kalimantan;
• Kertajati International Airport, West Java; and
• Sentani International Airport, Papua

b. Seaports

All international seaports in Indonesia are now opened as entry points for international travel through the consideration of the Directorate General of Sea Transportation of the Ministry of Transportation.

c. Cross Border State

• Aruk, West Kalimantan;
• Entikong, West Kalimantan;
• Motaain, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Nanga Badau, West Kalimantan;
• Motamasin, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Wini, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Skouw, Papua; and
• Sota, Papua.

3. International travelers can enter Indonesia through the following conditions:

• Indonesian citizens are allowed to enter Indonesia by following the strict health protocol as mentioned in number 1.
• Foreign nationals are allowed to enter Indonesia by fulfilling the requirements as follows:
• In accordance with the provisions on immigration regulated by the ministry that administers government affairs in the fields of Law and Human Rights;
• In accordance with the agreement scheme (bilateral), such as the Travel Corridor Arrangement (TCA); and/or
• Granted special consideration/permission in writing from the Ministry/Agency.

4. Requirements for Departure Documents for international travelers from Indonesia are as follows:

• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens aged 18 years and above who will travel abroad from Indonesia are required to show a card/certificate (physical or digital) of receiving the third dose of COVID-19 vaccine (booster) which is shown through the PeduliLindungi app.
• The provisions on the obligation to show the card/certificate as referred to in letter a are excluded for Indonesian citizens with the following provisions:
• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens with special health conditions or comorbid diseases that cause them to not receive the vaccine are required to attach a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital stating that the person concerned has not and/or cannot receive the Covid-19 vaccine; or
• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens who have finished carrying out COVID-19 isolation/treatment and have been declared inactive in transmitting COVID-19 but have not been able to get the third dose of vaccination (booster) must show a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital or Ministry of Health stating that the person concerned is no longer active. actively transmit COVID-19 or COVID-19 recovery certificate.

5. Requirements for Arrival Documents for international travelers going to Indonesia are as follows:  

• International travelers must download and use PeduliLindungi app before departure;
• Presenting the card/certificate (physical or digital) of receiving the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 (fourteen) days before departure written in English, other than the language of the country of origin.
• The obligation to show proof (physical and digital) of COVID-19 vaccination certificates as requirements for entering Indonesia are excluded to:
• Foreign nationals under 18 years old; and
• International travelers with special health conditions or comorbid diseases that cause travelers cannot receive vaccines, with the requirements of presenting a doctor's certificate from the State Departure Hospital which states that the concerned person has not been and/or cannot receive COVID-19 vaccination.
• International travelers who have not received a complete dose of vaccination, have finished carrying out COVID-19 isolation or treatment, and have been declared inactive in transmitting COVID-19 with the requirement that they attach a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital of the departure country or the ministry that carries out government affairs in the health sector on the country of departure stating that the person concerned is no longer actively transmitting COVID-19 or the COVID-19 recovery certificate;
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who are Diplomatic visa holders and work visas related to official visit/state officials at the ministerial level or above and foreign nationals who entered Indonesia with the Travel Corridor Arrangement scheme,  according to the principle of reciprocity while implementing a strict health protocol; and
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who have not received the vaccine and intend to travel domestically in order to continue their journey with international flights out of Indonesian territory, are allowed not to show their COVID-19 vaccination card/certificate as long as they do not leave the airport area during transit waiting for international flights to be followed, with requirements:
• Has been permitted by the local Port Health Office to travel domestically in order to continue the journey with international flights out of the territory of Indonesia; and
• Showing the schedule of flight tickets outside Indonesia for direct transit from the departure city to the international airport in the territory of Indonesia with the final destination to the destination country.

6. COVID-19 Entry Points Health Protocols are listed as follows:

• International travelers must proceed through international travel arrival documents checking as being mentioned in no. 4.
• Upon arrival at the entry points, international travelers must undergo a COVID-19 symptom check, including a body temperature check.
• International travelers with a symptom of COVID-19 or body temperature above 37.5 degrees Celsius must undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival with payment borne by the government for Indonesian citizen and by self-financing for foreign nationals
• International travelers without a symptom of COVID-19 and body temperature below 37.5 degrees Celsius are not required to undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival and can continue their travel while also conducting 14 days of self health monitoring.
• International travelers conducting the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c are allowed to continue the journey after conducting the RT-PCR confirmation examination sample and must comply with the following provisions:
• Waiting for the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination in hotel rooms, lodging rooms, or residences; and
• Are not allowed to leave hotel rooms, lodging rooms, or residences and are not allowed to interact with other people before the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination show negative results.
• In the event that the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c shows a positive result, the international traveler shall be isolated/treated in accordance with the follow-up mechanism for the positive case.
• In the event that the RT-PCR confirmation examination as referred to in point c shows a negative result, the international traveler is allowed to continue the journey and it is recommended to carry out independent health monitoring of COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days by implementing strict health protocols.

7. Positive Case Follow-up Mechanism and Isolation/Treatment are as follows:

• International travelers with positive RT-PCR confirmation examination results without symptoms or experiencing mild symptoms are required to carry out isolation/treatment in isolation hotels or centralized isolation facilities set by the government or self-isolate in their own residences with isolation/treatment times as recommended by the Ministry of Health.
• International travelers with positive RT-PCR confirmation examination results accompanied by moderate or severe symptoms and/or with uncontrolled comorbidities, will be isolated/treated at a Covid-19 referral hospital with isolation/treatment time according to recommendations from doctors and recommendations from the Ministry of Health.

8. COVID-19 Vaccination Program for International Travelers are as follows:

• International travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens who have not received the COVID-19 vaccination, either the first dose, the second dose, or the third dose are required to undergo vaccination at the entry point for overseas travel after a symptom check is carried out.
• International travelers with the status of foreign nationals who are already in Indonesia and will travel, both domestically and internationally, are required to undergo vaccination through a program or mutual cooperation scheme in accordance with the provisions of the legislation.

9. Financing of all the provisions mentioned above are regulated as follows:

• The cost of RT-PCR confirmation examination at the entry point as referred to in number 5.c. for foreign nationals it is borne independently, while for Indonesian citizens it is borne by the government.
• The cost of handling COVID-19 and medical evacuation for foreign nationals is borne independently, while for Indonesian citizens it is borne by the government.
• The cost of vaccination at the entry point for international travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens as referred to in letter 7.a is borne by the government.
• In the event that the international travelers with the status of foreign nationals are unable to finance the RT-PCR confirmation examination at the entry point and isolation/treatment when the results of the RT-PCR confirmation examination show positive results, as referred to in point a and b, then the Sponsor, Ministry/Institution/State-Owned Enterprises providing the consideration of the entry permit for the foreigner can be asked for the accountability in question.

10. Other provisions are as follows:

• In regards to the results of the RT-PCR test at the entry point, a written comparison can be requested by filling out the form provided by the Port Health Office or the Ministry of Health at the expense of the inspection being borne by the international travelers.
• The implementation of the RT-PCR comparison test as referred to in point a is carried out simultaneously by the Port Health Office in 2 (two) laboratories for the purpose of SGTF comparison examination and comparative examination of RT-PCR results, namely at: Health Research and Development Agency (Balitbangkes), Cipto Mangunkusumo Central General Hospital (RSCM), 9 Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital (RSPAD), Bhayangkara Raden Said Sukanto Hospital (Polri Hospital) or other government laboratories (Environmental Health Engineering Center, Regional Health Laboratory, or other government reference laboratories).
• The Port Health Office of airports and international seaports facilitates international travelers requiring emergency medical services upon arrival in Indonesia in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations.
• Every transportation mode operator at the entry point for overseas travel is required to use the PeduliLindungi app.
• Ministries/institutions/regional apparatus that carry out functions related to the international travelers must follow up this Circular Letter by issuing legal instruments that are in harmony and do not conflict with the provisions of laws and regulations.
• The legal instrument as referred to in point e is an inseparable part of this Circular Letter.

This regulation is effective from 1 September 2022 until a later date is determined. You can check the complete detail regarding this regulation on this link.

Visa Exemption Arrangement Facility and Visa on Arrival for Indonesia

• Visa Exemption Arrangement facility and Visa on Arrival for Indonesia

Furthermore, based on the  Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0708.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Ease of Immigration to Support Sustainable Tourism during the COVID-19 Pandemic effective from 23 September 2022, the Indonesian government has decided to exercise the Visa Exemption Arrangement facility and updated the list of countries eligible for Visa On Arrival (VOA) for tourism purposes.

The list of countries and special entities for Visit Visa Exemption Arrangement facility , in alphabetical order are:

• Brunei Darussalam,
• Philippines,
• Thailand, and

Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism Purpose are granted for foreign nationals at the Immigration Checkpoints as follows :

a. Airports:

1)  Hang Nadim, Riau Islands; 2)  Juanda, East Java; 3)  Kertajati, West Java; 4)  Kualanamu, North Sumatra; 5)  Minangkabau, West Sumatra; 6)  Ngurah Rai, Bali; 7)  Sam Ratulangi, North Sulawesi; 8)  Sentani, Jayapura; 9)  Soekarno Hatta, Banten; 10) Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman, East Kalimantan; 11) Sultan Hasanuddin, South Sulawesi; 12) Sultan Iskandar Muda, Aceh; 13) Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau; 14) Yogyakarta, DI Yogyakarta; 15) Zainuddin Abdul Majid, West Nusa Tenggara.

b. Seaports:

  1)  Achmad Yani, North Maluku;  2)  Amamapare, Papua;  3)  Anggrek, Gorontalo; 4)  Bagan Siapi-Api, Riau; 5)  Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, Riau Islands; 6)  Bandar Seri Udana Lobam, Riau Islands; 7)  Bandar Sri Setia Raja, Riau; 8)  Batam Centre, Riau Islands; 9)  Batu Ampar, Riau Islands; 10)  Belakang Padang, Riau Islands; 11)  Belawan, North Sumatra; 12)  Benete, West Nusa Tenggara; 13)  Benoa, Bali; 14)  Biak, Papua;  15)  Boom Baru, South Sumatra; 16)  Celukan Bawang, Bali; 17)  Cirebon, West Java; 18)  Citra Tri Tunas, Riau Islands; 19)  Ciwandan, Banten; 20)  Dumai, Riau; 21)  Dwi Kora, West Kalimantan; 22)  Gunung Sitoli, North Sumatera; 23)  Jambi, Jambi; 24)  Jayapura, Papua; 26)  Kabil, Riau Islands; 27)  Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi; 28)  Kota Baru, South Kalimantan; 29)  Kuala Enok, Riau; 30)  Kuala Langsa, Aceh; 31)  Kuala Tanjung, North Sumatra; 32)  Kumai, Central Kalimantan; 33)  Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara; 34)  Lauren Say, East Nusa Tenggara; 35)  Lemar, West Nusa Tenggara; 36)  Lhokseumawe, Aceh; 37)  Malahayati, Aceh;        38)  Manado, North Sulawesi Utara; 40)  Marina Ancol, DKI Jakarta; 41)  Marina Teluk Senimba, Riau Islands; 42)  Merauke, Papua; 43)  Muara Sabak, Jambi; 44)  Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Riau Islands; 45)  Nusantara, North Sulawesi; 46)  Nusantara Nusantara Pare Pare, South Sulawesi; 47)  Padang Bai, Bali; 48)  Panarukan, East Java; 49)  Pangkal Balam, Bangka Belitung; 50)  Panjang, Lampung; 51)  Pantoloan, Central Sulawesi; 52)  Pasuruan, East Java; 53)  Patimban, West Java; 54)  Probolinggo, East Java; 55)  Pulau Baai, Bengkulu; 56)  Sabang, Aceh; 57)  Samarinda, East Kalimantan; 58)  Sampit, Central Kalimantan;  59)  Samudera, North Sulawesi; 60)  Saumlaki, Maluku; 61)  Sekupang, Riau Islands; 62)  Selat Lampa, Riau Islands; 63)  Semayang, East Kalimantan; 64)  Siak Sri Indrapura, Riau; 65)  Sibolga, North Sumatra; 66)  Sintete, West Kalimantan; 67)  Soekarno-Hatta, South Sulawesi; 68)  Sorong, Papua; 69)  Sri Bayintan, Riau Islands; 70)  Sri Bintan Pura, Riau Islands; 71)  Sunda Kelapa, DKI Jakarta; 72)  Sungai Guntung, Riau; 73)  Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands; 74)  Tanjung Emas, Central Jawa; 75)  Tanjung Gudang, Bangka Belitung; 76)  Tanjung Harapan, Riau; 77)  Tanjung Intan, Central Java; 78)  Tanjung Kalian, Bangka Belitung; 79)  Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung; 80)  Tanjung Perak, East Java; 81)  Tanjung Priok, DKI Jakarta; 82)  Tanjung Uban, Riau Islands; 83)  Tanjung Wangi, East Java; 84)  Tarempa, Riau Islands; 85)  Teluk Bayur, West Sumatra; 86)  Teluk Nibung, North Sumatra; 87)  Tembilahan, Riau; 88)  Tenau, East Nusa Tenggara; 89)  Tri Sakti, South Kalimantan; 90)  Tual, Maluku; 91)  Yos Sudarso, Maluku;

c. Cross-Border Posts:

1)  Aruk, West Kalimantan; 2)  Entikong, West Kalimantan; 3)  Marore, North Sulawesi; 4)  Miangas, North Sulawesi; 5)  Mota’ain, East Nusa Tenggara; 6)  Motamasin, East Nusa Tenggara; 7)  Nanga Badau, West Kalimantan;                                                      8)  Serasan, Riau Islands;                                                                    9)  Skouw, Papua; 10) Sota, Papua; 11) Tunon Taka, North Kalimantan; 12) Wini, East Nusa Tenggara.

Effective from 23 September 2022, below are the list of countries and special entities for VOA for tourism, in alphabetical order:

• Bosnia Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Timor Leste
• Türkiye
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City

VOA for Tourism Purpose are granted for foreign nationals at the Immigration Checkpoints as follows

Immigration Checkpoints on Airports

• Hang Nadim, Riau Islands;
• Juanda, East Java;
• Kualanamu, North Sumatra;
• Ngurah Rai, Bali; 
• Raja Haji Fisabilillah, Riau Islands;
• Sam Ratulangi, North Sulawesi;
• Sentani, Papua
• Soekarno Hatta, DKI Jakarta;
• Sultan Hasanuddin, South Sulawesi;
• Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Riau;
• Yogyakarta in Special Region of Yogyakarta;
• Zainuddin Abdul Madjid in West Nusa Tenggara.

Immigration Checkpoints on Seaports

• Bandar Bentan Telani Lagoi, Riau Islands;
• Bandar Seri Udana Lobam, Riau Islands;
• Batam Centre, Riau Islands;
• Belawan, North Sumatra;
• Benoa, Bali;
• Biak, Papua;
• Citra Tri Tunas, Riau Islands;
• Dumai in Riau;
• Jayapura, Papua;
• Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Lembar, West Nusa Tenggara;
• Marina Teluk Senimba, Riau Islands;
• Malundung, North Kalimantan;
• Marina Ancol, Jakarta;
• Nongsa Terminal Bahari, Riau Islands;
• Nusantara Pare-Pare, South Sulawesi;
• Padang Bai, Bali;
• Sabang, Aceh;
• Samudera, North Sulawesi;
• Saumlaki, Maluku;
• Sekupang, Riau Islands;
• Sibolga, North Sumatra;
• Soekarno-Hatta, South Sulawesi;
• Sorong, Papua;
• Sri Bintan Pura, Riau Islands;
• Sunda Kelapa, DKI Jakarta;
• Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands;
• Tanjung Emas, Central Java;
• Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung;
• Tanjung Perak, East Java;
• Tanjung Priok, Jakarta;
• Tarempa, Riau Islands;
• Teluk Bayur, North Jakarta;
• Tenau, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Tual, Maluku.

Immigration Checkpoints on Cross-Border Posts

• Mota’ain, East Nusa Tenggara;
• Sota, Papua;
• Tunon Taka, North Kalimantan;
• Wini, East Nusa Tenggara.                                                                                   

The regulations and details for Visit Visa Exemption for Tourism Purpose and Visa On Arrival for Tourism are listed as follows:

1. International travelers must present all requirements for the VOA at the immigration counter, namely:

i. Diplomatic Passport, ii. Service Passport, or iii. General Passport;

With validity period of at least 6 (six) months;

• A return ticket or a connecting ticket to continue traveling to another country;
• Proof of non-tax revenue payment in case of applying for a VOA for tourism purpose

2. Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism can be used by foreign nationals to carry out tourism activities or government duties in international activities of a state or government nature;

3. In the event that the foreign national as referred to in number 3 will carry out government duties in international activities of a state or government nature, in addition to meeting the requirements as referred to in number 2 must also attach an invitation letter to attend a conference/trial/meeting issued by the related Ministry/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia;

4. VOA for Tourism can also be granted to foreign nationals holding Diplomatic Passports or Service Passports who are not citizens of the State, Government of a Special Administrative Region of a State, and Certain Entities Subject to a VOA for Tourism in the event that there is no Representative of the Republic of Indonesia in the country/place of residence or emergency/urgent activities, by examining the following requirements:

• Diplomatic Passport or Service Passport with a validity period of at least 6 (six) months,
• A return ticket or a one-way ticket to continue the journey to another country;
• Request letter from the Ministry/Agency/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia;
• Letter of approval from the Director General of Immigration;
• Proof of non-tax revenue payment for VOA for tourism; and
• Invitation letter to attend conferences/trials/meetings issued by Ministries/Institutions/Agencies of the Republic of Indonesia, in terms of the intention of visiting foreigners for government duties in international activities of a state or government nature;

5. The approval letter from the Director General of Immigration as referred to in number 4 letter d is submitted by the chairs of the Ministry/Institution/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia to the Director General of Immigration u.p. Director of Immigration Traffic by attaching:

• A request letter from the Ministry/Agency/Agency of the Republic of Indonesia containing data on foreign nationals and the reasons for the submission,
• Diplomatic Passport or Service Passport with a validity period of at least 6 (six) months, and

6. Foreign nationals holding Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism cannot apply for a New Stay Permit through a Visa application;

7. Foreign nationals holding Visa Exemption Arrangement for Tourism and VOA for tourism can leave the territory of Indonesia through all Immigration Checkpoints;

8. The applicable rate for a VOA for tourism is the rate for a Visa on Arrival as referred to in the Attachment to Government Regulation Number 28 of 2019 which is IDR 500,000,-;

9. Perform data reconciliation between non-tax revenue payments, use of Visit Visa stickers on VOA for tourism with immigration crossings on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis;

Passport holders outside the above listed categories in point 2, can also enter Indonesia through entry points mentioned in point 1 by applying for e-visa prior to departure.

If you are already in Indonesia and planning to depart on a domestic trip, we suggest you find an updated regulation regarding domestic travel by clicking the link here .

Second Home Visa

Foreigners can stay for 5 (five) or 10 (ten) years and carry out various activities, such as investment and others. Foreigners can also conveniently apply for a second-home visa through a website-based application( visa-online.imigrasi.go.id ).

Check here for the required documents.

E-Visa on Arrival (E-VoA)

According to the Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0764.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Immigration Policy regarding Electronic Visit Visa Services, Visit Visa on Arrival Services, and Free Visit Visa to Support Sustainable Tourism during the Covid-19 Pandemic, as of 10 November, 2022, E-VoA program is being applied for some international travelers in order to ease their visit to Indonesia and attract more foreign travelers to come. The E-VoA program is available at 6 airports and 11 seaports across Indonesia and currently accessible to foreign nationals from 46 countries.

You can check the details regarding the E-VoA program by clicking the link here .

It is also expected for all international travelers to practice healthy habits such as washing hands frequently, wearing a mask in public places, and implementing social distancing. Kindly note that this regulation changes dynamically in order to adapt to certain circumstances. Be sure to follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  TikTok  and  YouTube  to get an immediate update on the regulations in the future.

*Disclaimer : This article was updated on 16 January 2022. Due to the dynamic nature of travel regulations, please stay updated and confirm your itinerary with your chosen travel providers.

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