Indonesia Right Now
Air quality in major cities like Jakarta and Bandung is consistently unhealthy, with Surabaya, Medan, and Semarang also posing risks to sensitive groups.
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)
Where to go in Indonesia
Indonesia has distinct travel seasons depending on where you go.
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🌡 HIGH · 32°C ☀ TIMING · Good1Jakarta
The traffic around Bundaran HI never stops, but the best sate ayam is always found at a roadside stall after midnight.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
- CROWDS
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🌡 HIGH · 31°C ★ TIMING · Best2Yogyakarta
Ancient temples rise from green fields while street art adorns city walls.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
- CROWDS
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🌡 HIGH · 31°C ★ TIMING · Best3Bali
You will find more yoga studios than temples in Canggu, but the incense still burns on every street corner.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
- CROWDS
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🌡 HIGH · 31°C ★ TIMING · Best4Lombok
Lombok offers quieter surf breaks than Bali, but expect fewer luxury resorts and more warungs for your nasi goreng.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 31°C ★ TIMING · Best5Sumbawa
Volcanic peaks loom over quiet fishing villages where water buffalo graze near the shore.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 32°C ☀ TIMING · Good6Komodo
Ancient dragons roam volcanic hills above turquoise reefs teeming with vibrant fish.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°C ★ TIMING · Best7Sumba
Ancient megalithic tombs stand sentinel over surfers riding turquoise waves.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 31°C ☀ TIMING · Good8Raja Ampat
Where lush jungle meets turquoise waters, vibrant coral gardens teem with reef sharks and manta rays.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
Need to Know
- Currency
- Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Language
- Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia), English common in tourist hubs and major cities
- Tap water
- Not safe to drink
- Time zone
- GMT+7 to GMT+9 (multiple zones)
- Power plug
- Type C / F, 230V
- Dialling code
- +62
- Driving side
- left
- Tipping
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, especially in tourist areas. Many restaurants and hotels include a 10% service charge. If not included, 5-10% is a good guideline.
- Internet
- 4G LTE is widely available in cities and tourist destinations, with 5G coverage limited to central areas of large cities. Speeds are generally sufficient for most needs, though coverage can vary in remote areas.
- Emergency
- 112 (all services), 110 (police), 113 (fire), 118 or 119 (ambulance)
Indonesia itineraries
Upcoming Holidays
Public holidays & observances — next 12 months
Visa & Entry
- Visa type
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) or eVisa required
- Length of stay
- 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days
- Extension
- One 30-day extension is available. Apply at a local immigration office before your current visa expires. As of June 1, 2025, a personal appearance at an immigration office is mandatory for all visa extensions, including for e-VoA holders.
- Passport validity
- 6 months beyond arrival date, with at least two blank pages.
- Onward ticket
- Required. Airlines often check before boarding, and immigration officers may request proof of onward or return travel upon arrival.
- Tourist tax
- 150,000 IDR (approximately $10 USD) for Bali, collected upon entry to Bali. This is separate from the visa fee and can be paid online in advance or at the airport.
- Eligible nationalities
- Citizens of US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries are eligible for a Visa on Arrival or eVisa.
Getting To Indonesia
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Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)
29 km northwest of city centre
Traffic in Jakarta is notoriously bad, so the airport train is often the most reliable option for getting into the city quickly. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are widely available and generally cheaper than official taxis, but surge pricing can occur during peak hours or bad weather.
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Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
13 km south of Denpasar
This is Bali's main airport, and transfers to popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu are quick. Official airport taxis have fixed rates, but ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are also readily available and often offer slightly better prices.
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Surabaya Juanda International Airport (SUB)
20 km south of city centre
The airport train is by far the cheapest option, though you'll need a short onward taxi or ride-hail from Gubeng station. Grab and Gojek are widely used and generally more affordable than official airport taxis, which operate on a fixed-rate zone system.
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Medan Kualanamu International Airport (KNO)
28 km east of Medan city centre
The Airport Railink Service is the fastest and most reliable way to reach Medan city, avoiding road traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also efficient, with Grab and Gojek often being slightly cheaper than official taxis.
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Immigration and entry process
US/UK/EU/AU/CA/NZ passports 15-30 min · e-VOA available
Most nationalities, including those from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, require a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for tourism. You can obtain this upon arrival for IDR 500,000 (35 USD) or apply for an e-VOA online beforehand to save time. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and have a return or onward ticket.
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Overland from Malaysia (Borneo)
Two main crossings between Sarawak (Malaysia) and West Kalimantan (Indonesia)
The Aruk border crossing is the easiest and most recommended for international travelers between Malaysian Sarawak and Indonesian West Kalimantan. While other informal crossings exist, stick to the official ones for a smoother process.
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Ferry from Singapore to Batam
Frequent services from HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals
Batam is a popular short hop from Singapore, with multiple ferry operators offering frequent daily services. Foot passengers are the norm, and tickets are easily booked online or at the terminal.
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Ferry from Malaysia to Sumatra
Services from Melaka and Port Dickson to Dumai or Tanjung Balai
While flights are generally faster and often cheaper, ferries offer a more adventurous route to Sumatra. Indomal Fast Ferry is the primary operator, but services can be less frequent than flights.
Safety Advice
Indonesia has a high risk of natural disasters and a continued threat of terrorism, with specific warnings for Papua. Petty crime like pickpocketing is common in tourist areas, and road travel can be chaotic and hazardous.
Travel Advisories
Natural disasters
- Volcanic eruptions can happen suddenly, so respect exclusion zones and follow local evacuation orders.
- Earthquakes and tsunamis are possible; follow local authority instructions immediately if a warning is issued.
- Wildfires and resulting haze are common during the dry season, affecting air quality.
Health & vaccinations
- Be aware that some alcoholic drinks may contain methanol, which can be fatal. Seek immediate medical help if symptoms appear.
- Ensure you have enough of your regular medicines, especially if you have respiratory conditions affected by volcanic ash.
Unrest & security
- Do not travel to Central Papua and Highland Papua due to ongoing conflict and potential kidnapping.
- Avoid demonstrations and large crowds as they can turn violent without warning.
- Be aware of a high threat of terrorism; attacks could be indiscriminate.
Transport & infrastructure
- Traffic discipline is poor; wear a helmet if riding a motorbike and keep car doors locked.
- Boat and ferry safety standards vary; check for life jackets and avoid travelling after dark if possible.
- Flooding can disrupt roads, especially in Jakarta and Bali, causing traffic jams and power outages.
Other notes
- Do not get involved with illegal drugs; penalties include long prison sentences or the death penalty.
- Carry your passport or valid permit at all times.
- Respect local customs during Ramadan and Balinese New Year, including restrictions on public activity.
- Be cautious of drink spiking and ensure your drinks are prepared and watched.
- Street crime like bag-snatching is common in busy tourist areas; conceal valuables.
Always check your own government's official travel advice before travelling.
Money & Payments
Carry cash for small vendors, use cards in larger establishments, and always pay in local currency to avoid extra fees.
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Cash for daily spending Cash remains essential for many transactions, especially at smaller businesses, local markets, and in rural areas. While electronic payments are growing, many places still prefer or only accept Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) cash.
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Cards accepted in tourist areas Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and tourist hotspots in major cities like Jakarta and Bali. American Express has emerging acceptance.
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Beware illegal card surcharges Some merchants, despite regulations prohibiting it, may add a 2-3% surcharge for card payments. Always ask if there's a surcharge before paying with your card.
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ATMs widely available, withdrawal limits ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas. Most ATMs have a per-transaction limit of IDR 2.5 to 3 million (approximately $160-$190 USD), with some dispensing only IDR 50,000 notes, halving the effective limit. Your home bank may also impose daily limits.
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Local e-wallets and QRIS payments Digital wallets like GoPay, OVO, DANA, and ShopeePay are widely used by locals, and many businesses, including street vendors, accept QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) payments. Some e-wallets support cross-border QR payments with neighboring countries.
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Always pay in local currency When using an ATM or paying with a card, always choose to be charged in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Opting for your home currency allows the local bank or merchant to apply an unfavorable exchange rate.
Costs in Indonesia
Indonesia remains incredibly affordable, especially outside the major tourist hubs. You can still find a delicious street food meal for under $2, making it easy to stretch your travel budget.
Supermarket prices
SIM Cards & Data
Best option for most travellers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport queue and no tourist pricing.
Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport queue and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →Prefer a local SIM?
Indonesia boasts widespread 4G coverage, ensuring reliable speeds for essential apps like maps, ride-hailing, and messaging across most populated areas. 5G is available in major cities like Jakarta and parts of Bali, though its reach is still expanding. Expect weaker or dead zones in very rural or mountainous regions, but overall connectivity is good for typical tourist needs.
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Telkomsel
Telkomsel offers the most extensive and reliable 4G/5G coverage nationwide, making it the best choice for exploring beyond major cities. A 25GB tourist plan with 25 minutes of local and international calls costs around IDR 150,000 (about $9.63).
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XL Axiata
XL Axiata provides strong 4G coverage and good speeds in tourist hotspots and urban areas, with competitive pricing. A 12GB plan for 30 days costs around IDR 100,000-130,000 (about $6.15-$7.99).
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IM3 Indosat
IM3 Indosat, also known as Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, is a budget-friendly option with good coverage in cities and tourist areas. A 30GB data plan for 30 days with 10 domestic and international call minutes starts around IDR 100,000 (about $6.40).
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Smartfren
Smartfren offers affordable data plans, particularly suitable for travelers staying in well-known areas. An unlimited data plan for 14 days with a fair usage policy of 1.5GB per day costs around IDR 200,000 (about $12.60).
What Indonesia is Like
Indonesia is less a single destination and more a collection of wildly different worlds, stitched together by a national language and a shared, underlying rhythm of life that prioritizes community and faith. You'll find yourself adjusting to the slower pace of daily transactions, the gentle nod of a greeting, and the constant hum of scooters and roadside chatter. The scale of the country means that a single trip will barely scratch the surface, and trying to cover too much ground will leave you feeling less enlightened and more just plain tired. It's a place where patience is a virtue, especially when navigating its sometimes-strained infrastructure.
In Bali, the tourist experience is being actively reshaped right now. The island recently implemented a tourist tax of IDR 150,000 per person, including children, paid upon arrival, and you'll encounter checkpoints at the airport where they verify payment. There's also a noticeable crackdown on what authorities deem unruly tourist behavior, with new guidelines on dress codes at religious sites and restrictions on motorbike rentals. Expect more scrutiny of your financial capacity and length of stay when entering the island from 2026 onwards, a clear signal they are pushing for "higher quality" visitors.
Beyond Bali, the texture changes dramatically. Jakarta, the sprawling capital, is a concrete jungle perpetually choked by traffic; a 10-kilometer drive can easily take 26 minutes during peak hours, and the city recently climbed to the 24th most congested in the world. Getting around often involves navigating unofficial taxi touts at the airport who will try to overcharge you, or dealing with fake ride-share drivers. In contrast, places like Yogyakarta on Java offer a more traditional, artistic experience, centered around ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, where you can easily spend a full day exploring the history and intricate carvings.
The country's environmental challenges are also increasingly visible. Deforestation, particularly in Kalimantan and Papua, has surged in the past year due to expanding plantations and mining, with over 430,000 hectares of forest cleared in 2025 alone. Jakarta is grappling with a severe trash crisis, with streets often garbage-choked and landfills at or beyond capacity. Meanwhile, popular natural attractions like Komodo National Park now have a daily visitor limit of 1,000 people, implemented in April 2026, to protect the fragile ecosystem from overcrowding. Booking well in advance is essential if you want to see the Komodo dragons.
Daily life across the archipelago is punctuated by the call to prayer in Muslim-majority regions and the vibrant ceremonies in Hindu Bali. Food is a constant, from the ubiquitous nasi goreng found everywhere to regional specialties like gudeg in Yogyakarta. You'll find that haggling is expected in markets, though the "tourist price shuffle" is a real and annoying phenomenon, especially in more frequented areas, where vendors will seamlessly shortchange you at money changers or inflate prices. Using official money changers with security guards, like BMC Money Changer in Bali, is a smart move.
Liveability
Indonesia offers a low cost of living and a relaxed tropical lifestyle, making it popular with expats and digital nomads, particularly in Bali. However, infrastructure quality can vary significantly outside major cities, and while corruption is being addressed, it remains a concern.
Sustainability
Indonesia is grappling with significant plastic pollution, particularly on its beaches, and widespread river contamination. Air quality in major cities like Jakarta is a serious concern, often ranking among the world's worst due to industrial and vehicle emissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & moving around
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What is a good multi-city itinerary for a 10 to 14 day trip to Indonesia?
For a first-time trip, focus on a combination of Java and Bali. Start in Yogyakarta, Java, for 3-4 days to explore ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, soaking in the cultural heart of Indonesia. Then, fly to Bali for 5-7 days, splitting your time between Ubud for rice paddies and spiritual experiences, and a beach town like Seminyak or Canggu for relaxation and surfing. If you have a few extra days, consider a quick flight to Labuan Bajo for a 2-3 day Komodo National Park boat trip, but be aware of the new visitor limits.
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How do you travel between cities in Indonesia?
Domestic flights are the most efficient way to cover long distances across Indonesia's vast archipelago. Garuda Indonesia is generally considered the most reliable airline with good customer service, while Citilink and Batik Air offer more budget-friendly options. For shorter distances on Java, trains are a comfortable option, but buses can be slow and road quality varies significantly between regions. Driving yourself is generally not recommended due to chaotic traffic and often poor road conditions.
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How reliable are domestic flights in Indonesia, and which airline should I use?
Domestic flights in Indonesia are generally reliable, though delays can occur, especially with budget carriers. Garuda Indonesia is the national airline and offers the best customer service and reliable schedules, making it the preferred choice for many travelers. Citilink and Batik Air are also popular options for domestic routes, but Lion Air is known for frequent flight disruptions.
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Do I need an International Driving Permit for Indonesia?
Yes, you absolutely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally rent and ride a scooter or motorbike in Indonesia. Your IDP must specifically include a motorcycle endorsement, as a standard car license is not sufficient. Police conduct regular spot checks, especially in tourist areas like Bali, and getting caught without the correct documents will result in fines.
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How much does Indonesia change between regions?
Indonesia is incredibly diverse, with vast differences between its regions in terms of culture, religion, and daily life. Bali, predominantly Hindu, has a relaxed atmosphere and a strong tourism infrastructure, while Muslim-majority Java is more conservative with a focus on ancient history and traditional arts. Sumatra offers a different experience with its rainforests and unique cultural groups, and the eastern islands are even more remote and culturally distinct. Expect significant shifts in dress codes, alcohol availability, and social norms as you move between islands.
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Is English widely spoken in Indonesia?
English is widely spoken in major tourist areas like Bali, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to international visitors. Outside of these hotspots, especially in rural areas or less-visited islands, English proficiency drops significantly. Learning a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia, the national language, will go a long way and is always appreciated by locals.
Safety & medical
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What natural hazards should I plan around in Indonesia?
Indonesia is located on the 'Ring of Fire,' making it prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. While these are unpredictable, staying informed about current geological activity through local news is wise. The country also experiences a monsoon season, typically from November to April, which can bring heavy rains, localized flooding, and impact travel, particularly on smaller islands and rural roads.
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What vaccinations do I need for Indonesia?
You should ensure your routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio are up to date. Travel-specific vaccines to consider for Indonesia include Hepatitis A and Typhoid, due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water. Depending on your itinerary, especially if visiting rural areas, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies might also be recommended. Consult a travel-medicine clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
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Do I need travel insurance for Indonesia?
Travel insurance is a non-negotiable for Indonesia, especially given the prevalence of scooter accidents and the potential for serious medical issues. Many travel insurance policies are invalidated if you ride a scooter without a proper license and International Driving Permit, leaving you to pay for any medical emergencies out of pocket. Beyond medical, the sheer scale of the country and occasional transport disruptions make cancellation or interruption coverage a smart move.
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Are there any regions or areas of Indonesia I should avoid entirely?
The province of Aceh, located on Sumatra, operates under Sharia law and is significantly more conservative than other parts of Indonesia. Alcohol is completely banned there, and public displays of affection or immodest dress can lead to legal issues, even for tourists. While not entirely 'off-limits,' it requires a much higher degree of cultural sensitivity and adherence to local customs than other regions.
Laws & local norms
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What are the drug laws in Indonesia?
Indonesia has some of the strictest drug laws in the world, with a zero-tolerance policy for possession, use, or trafficking of narcotics. Penalties range from lengthy prison sentences of 4 to 12 years and hefty fines for possession, to life imprisonment or even the death penalty for trafficking, particularly for larger quantities. Even small amounts of substances like cannabis or CBD products, which may be legal elsewhere, are strictly prohibited. Do not assume your home country's laws apply here; authorities are vigilant, especially in tourist areas and at airports.
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Can I vape in Indonesia?
Vaping is legal in Indonesia, but it operates under intense regulatory scrutiny. While bringing a personal vape device and a modest amount of e-liquid (around 30ml) for personal use is generally tolerated, the local market is heavily restricted with flavor bans and high taxes. More critically, authorities are highly suspicious of unlabelled or locally purchased vape juices due to concerns about narcotics, so stick to factory-sealed liquids from home. Vaping is also strictly banned in all indoor public spaces, hospitals, and on public transport.
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Is alcohol legal in Indonesia?
Alcohol is legal in Indonesia at the national level, but its availability and social acceptance vary widely by region due to the country's large Muslim population. Bali and major tourist hubs like Jakarta and Yogyakarta have readily available alcohol in bars, restaurants, and hotels, though prices are high due to heavy taxation. However, in provinces like Aceh, alcohol is completely banned under Sharia law, with strict penalties for consumption or possession. Always be discreet and respectful outside of designated tourist areas.
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What is the dress code for tourists in Indonesia?
Indonesia is a conservative country, and modest dress is generally advisable, especially outside of major beach resorts. While Bali is more relaxed, covering shoulders and knees is recommended in most public areas and is mandatory for religious sites like temples and mosques. You will need a sarong to cover your legs and often shoulders when entering temples, which are usually available for rent or purchase at the entrance. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in rural areas or during religious holidays like Ramadan.
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How LGBTQ+ friendly is Indonesia?
Indonesia is not a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. While same-sex sexual activity is not explicitly criminalized at the national level, homosexuality is widely disapproved of and stigmatized in Indonesian society. Two provinces, Aceh and South Sumatra, explicitly criminalize same-sex sexual activity, with penalties including flogging or imprisonment. There are no anti-discrimination protections, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples would likely draw stares or hostility. A new penal code effective January 2026 criminalizes sex outside of marriage, which activists worry could be used to target same-sex couples.
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What local etiquette should tourists be aware of in Indonesia?
Indonesian etiquette emphasizes politeness and respect. Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, shaking hands, or eating, as the left hand is considered unclean. Avoid touching a person's head, pointing with your index finger, or showing the soles of your feet towards anyone. When visiting homes or religious sites, remove your shoes. A slight nod or bow is a common greeting, and smiling goes a long way.
Food & drink
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What are the best local foods to try in Indonesia?
You must try nasi goreng, the ubiquitous fried rice dish, often served with a fried egg and satay. Rendang, a rich and spicy slow-cooked beef curry from West Sumatra, is another national favorite. For a taste of Java, seek out gudeg, a sweet jackfruit stew from Yogyakarta, or sate lilit, minced seafood or chicken satay from Bali. Don't shy away from street food stalls for the most authentic and flavorful experiences, but choose busy ones with high turnover.
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Is Indonesia vegan-friendly?
Indonesia is surprisingly vegan-friendly, especially in regions like Bali and Java, where plant-based diets are common due to religious or traditional reasons. Many traditional dishes like gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), tempeh, and tofu are naturally vegan or can be easily adapted. In tourist areas, dedicated vegan restaurants are plentiful, but outside of these, you may need to explicitly ask for dishes without meat or egg, using phrases like 'tanpa daging' (without meat) or 'tanpa telur' (without egg).
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Is Indonesia good for halal travel?
Indonesia is an excellent destination for halal travel, being the world's largest Muslim-majority country. Halal food is widely available across the archipelago, from street stalls to restaurants, and many hotels offer halal-certified menus and prayer facilities. Regions like Lombok and Aceh are particularly known for their strong Islamic identity and extensive halal amenities, making it easy to adhere to dietary and religious practices.
Families
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Is Indonesia a good place to travel with kids?
Indonesia can be a good place to travel with kids, offering a mix of adventure and cultural experiences, but it requires effort. Locals are generally welcoming towards children, but the daily chaos of traffic, uneven sidewalks, and sometimes questionable sanitation can be stressful for families. Bali is the most family-friendly region with dedicated resorts and activities, but outside of tourist areas, amenities for children are less common. Managing heat, fussy eaters, and naptime logistics will be the main friction points.
Pets
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Can I bring my pet to Indonesia?
Bringing a pet to Indonesia is a complex and lengthy process, generally not advisable for short leisure trips. You will need an import license from the Ministry of Agriculture, a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination and titer test, and a health certificate from an official veterinarian. Pets are typically subjected to a 7-14 day quarantine upon arrival in Jakarta, not Bali, which means you will be separated from your pet for a significant portion of your trip. Direct entry to Bali with pets is often prohibited due to strict rabies control.
Staying
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Do I need a VPN in Indonesia?
Indonesia does not block many major international websites or services, but a VPN still earns its keep for several reasons. Without one, your home streaming libraries (Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer) will default to the local Indonesian catalogue, which is often more limited. A VPN also encrypts your data on public Wi-Fi networks in hotels and cafes, which are prime targets for opportunistic data theft. While rare, the government has previously fined individuals for using VPNs to bypass temporary bans on social media platforms, so be aware of current local regulations.