Indonesia Right Now
Air quality is unhealthy in Banten and Jakarta due to an ongoing landfill fire near Jakarta, which has also caused respiratory illnesses for hundreds of residents.
Where to go in Indonesia
From Jakarta’s dense urban sprawl to Raja Ampat’s reef islands and Tana Toraja’s misty highlands, Indonesia shifts fast between megacities, surf coasts, jungle interiors and remote marine regions. Different parts of the country sit in completely different weather patterns at the same time, so the cards below, sorted west to east, show live conditions for each destination including current weather, crowds and costs to help narrow down which region is actually in season right now.
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🌡 HIGH · 32°C ★ TIMING · Best1Jakarta
The traffic around Bundaran HI never stops, and the best sate ayam still comes from midnight roadside carts.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°C ★ TIMING · Best2Yogyakarta
Ancient temples sit beyond rice fields, while alley walls carry Yogyakarta's sharper modern voice.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°C ★ TIMING · Best3Bali
You will find more yoga studios than temples in Canggu, but the incense still burns on every street corner.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°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 · 32°C ★ TIMING · Best5Sumbawa
Volcanic ridges watch over quiet fishing villages where water buffalo graze close to the tide.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°C ★ TIMING · Best6Komodo
Salt-stiff hair, black volcanic slopes, and sudden manta shadows define the days.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 26°C ★ TIMING · Best7Tana Toraja
Remote, slow, and emotionally heavy, with mountain roads leading to some of Sulawesi’s most distinctive culture.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 29°C ★ TIMING · Best8Sumba
Dry hills, sandalwood smoke, and ikat cloth give the island a texture Bali never had.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
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🌡 HIGH · 30°C ☀ TIMING · Good9Raja Ampat
Jungle drops into blue shallows, with reef sharks and manta rays moving over coral shelves.
- WEATHER
- SAFETY
- CROWDS
Need to Know
- Population
- 284,670,000 BPS · SUPAS mid-2025
- International visitors
- 15,386,646 (2025) +10.7% YoY BPS · Last updated: May 2026
- Annual visitors per resident
- 0.05× Annual international visitors divided by the population
Top visitor markets
- Malaysia 16.4%
- Australia 12.0%
- Singapore 10.1%
- China 8.6%
- Timor-Leste 5.6%
Source: BPS · 2024
Annual visitor arrivals
- 2025 15,386,646 +10.7%
- 2024 13,902,420 +19.0%
- 2023 11,677,825 +98.3%
- 2022 5,889,031
- 2021 1,557,530 COVID
- 2020 4,052,923 COVID
- 2019 16,106,954
International visitor arrivals. COVID years (2020-2021) are included for completeness. Source: BPS · Last updated: May 2026
- 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)
When not to go
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Avoid Indonesia during Lebaran travel
Late Mar – mid-Apr · lunar calendarLebaran travel week breaks transport across huge parts of Indonesia, especially Java, Bali, and major ferry routes. Domestic flights sell out, toll roads clog for hours, trains disappear weeks ahead, and ports like Gilimanuk turn into all-day queues. Some tourist areas empty out in a good way, but getting between places becomes exhausting fast. If you want a smoother trip, go before the holiday rush or stay put in one region instead of island-hopping.
Go here instead:
- Thailand More predictable domestic transport during the same period.
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.
- Entry process
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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.
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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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; respect exclusion zones and follow local warnings.
- Flooding and landslides are common during the rainy season, especially in mountainous areas and cities.
- Earthquakes can trigger tsunamis; follow local authority instructions immediately if one occurs.
- Wildfires create haze that affects air quality, particularly from April to September.
Health & vaccinations
- Be aware that some alcoholic drinks contain methanol, which can be fatal; seek urgent medical help if symptoms appear.
- Ensure you have enough of your regular medication if you have respiratory conditions, as volcanic ash can affect air quality.
Unrest & security
- Terrorists are likely to attack Indonesia; be alert in crowded places and at gatherings.
- Avoid protests and political rallies as they can turn violent without warning.
- Carry your passport or valid permit at all times.
- Do not get involved with illegal drugs; penalties include long prison sentences or the death penalty.
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.
- Piracy and armed robbery occur in the Sulu, Celebes seas and Malacca Straits.
Other notes
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.
- On Balinese New Year, all people in Bali observe a day of silence; the airport closes.
- Be cautious of drink spiking, especially in Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.
- Conceal valuables to avoid bag-snatching and pickpocketing in busy tourist areas.
- Only use licensed currency exchanges and never lose sight of your credit card during transactions.
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
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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.
Several Countries
The biggest planning mistake people make is treating Indonesia like Thailand or Japan, where moving between regions feels like seeing different versions of the same country. Here, the changes are far sharper. Spend a week in Bali and you might leave thinking Indonesia is Hindu, vegetarian-friendly, packed with yoga studios and filled with temple offerings. Fly elsewhere and that picture can fall apart almost immediately.
The differences show up in small moments before they show up in guidebooks. In one place the soundtrack is roosters and church bells. In another it is the call to prayer rolling across town before sunrise. A restaurant menu that revolves around pork in the morning can become a menu where pork is almost impossible to find by evening if you have changed islands. Even the way people dress, greet strangers and spend their evenings shifts noticeably from region to region.
Food is often the clearest reminder that you have entered a different world. One question you'll hear across much of Indonesia is Sudah makan? Literally have you eaten yet? People are not usually checking whether you're hungry. It works almost like asking How are you?, reflecting how central food is to daily life and hospitality. Nasi goreng appears almost everywhere, but beyond that the country fragments into local loyalties, ingredients and flavours that can change dramatically from one island to the next.
This is why the best Indonesia trips are usually narrower than people expect. Trying to combine five islands into one itinerary often leaves you with airport memories and ferry schedules instead of any real understanding of the places you visited. Pick one region, slow down and accept that you are seeing only a slice of the country. Indonesia rewards depth far more than coverage.
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?
A classic first trip combines Java and Bali. Spend a few days around Yogyakarta for Borobudur, Prambanan and Javanese culture, then fly to Bali for beaches, food and day trips. If you have extra time, add Komodo for diving, wildlife and island scenery rather than trying to squeeze in too many islands.
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How much does Indonesia change between regions?
More than many first-time visitors expect. Bali, Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi and the eastern islands differ in religion, food, architecture, social norms and tourism infrastructure. Treat Indonesia as a collection of distinct regions rather than a single travel experience.
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How do you travel between cities in Indonesia?
Flights are the default for moving between islands because distances are huge. On Java, trains are often more comfortable and predictable than buses, especially between major cities. Ferries connect many islands but schedules can change and journeys are often slower than they look on a map.
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How reliable are domestic flights in Indonesia, and which airline should I use?
Domestic aviation is extensive and usually works well, but delays are common enough that you should avoid tight same-day connections. Garuda Indonesia has the strongest reputation for reliability, while Citilink and Batik Air are widely used alternatives. Budget carriers can be considerably less predictable during bad weather or busy holiday periods.
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What's the most common mistake first-time visitors make in Indonesia?
Trying to cover too many islands in one trip. Indonesia looks compact on a map, but flights, ferries and transfers take time. Most travellers have a better experience focusing on two or three regions rather than constantly moving.
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Which Indonesian destinations are best for beginner surfers?
Bali is the easiest starting point thanks to sandy-bottom breaks, surf schools and reliable board rentals. Kuta, Canggu and parts of Lombok offer plenty of options for first-timers. Most other famous Indonesian surf regions are aimed at more experienced surfers.
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Which Indonesian destinations are best for advanced surfers?
Sumbawa, Mentawai, Nias and parts of Bali are where experienced surfers usually head. Many breaks are reef-based, powerful and far less forgiving than beginner beaches. Conditions can be exceptional, but they are not places to learn.
Safety & medical
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Do I need travel insurance for Indonesia?
Yes. Medical evacuation from remote islands can be extremely expensive, and scooter accidents are one of the most common causes of serious tourist claims. Read the policy carefully because many insurers will not cover motorcycle accidents if you lack the correct licence or permit.
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What natural hazards should I plan around in Indonesia?
Earthquakes, volcanic activity and seasonal flooding are the main risks. Most travellers are unaffected, but transport disruptions do happen, especially during heavy rains and around active volcanoes. Check local conditions if you are visiting remote islands or trekking near volcanic areas.
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Are there any regions or areas of Indonesia I should avoid entirely?
Most tourist areas are straightforward to visit. Aceh follows local Sharia regulations and has stricter rules around alcohol, dress and public behaviour than the rest of the country. Some remote areas of Papua occasionally experience security issues, but they are far from mainstream tourist routes.
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What vaccinations do I need for Indonesia?
Most travellers should be up to date on routine vaccinations and consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Longer stays, rural travel or extensive outdoor activities may justify additional vaccines such as Rabies or Japanese Encephalitis. A travel clinic can advise based on your exact itinerary.
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Can you drink the tap water in Indonesia?
No. Most locals and travellers rely on bottled, filtered or refilled drinking water. Ice in reputable restaurants is usually fine, and many travellers brush their teeth with tap water without issues, but drinking it directly is not recommended.
Laws & local norms
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What are the drug laws in Indonesia?
Indonesia enforces some of the toughest drug laws in the region. Even small quantities can lead to long prison sentences, and trafficking offences can carry life imprisonment or the death penalty. Do not assume substances that are tolerated elsewhere are acceptable here.
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Can I vape in Indonesia?
Vaping is legal, and vape shops are common in many cities and tourist areas. Rules vary by location, and vaping is often prohibited in the same places where smoking is banned. Carry commercially packaged products and avoid assuming local enforcement will be consistent everywhere.
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Is alcohol legal in Indonesia?
Yes, but availability varies sharply by region. Alcohol is easy to find in places such as Bali, Jakarta and major tourist centres, while Aceh prohibits it entirely. Imported alcohol is heavily taxed, so prices are often higher than visitors expect.
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How LGBTQ+ friendly is Indonesia?
Acceptance varies widely. Tourist areas such as Bali tend to be more relaxed, but public attitudes across much of the country remain conservative. Same-sex couples rarely face issues when being discreet, though open displays of affection can attract unwanted attention.
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Do I need an International Driving Permit for Indonesia?
Yes, if you plan to ride a scooter or motorcycle legally. The permit should match the type of vehicle you are using and be carried alongside your home licence. Lack of proper documentation can lead to fines and may invalidate travel insurance.
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What is the dress code for tourists in Indonesia?
Modest clothing is appreciated in most of the country, especially away from beaches and resorts. Temples and mosques often require covered shoulders and legs. What feels normal in a beach town may stand out in a rural village.
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What local etiquette should tourists be aware of in Indonesia?
Politeness matters more than perfection. Using your right hand when giving or receiving items, dressing respectfully at religious sites and staying calm during disagreements will be noticed positively. Indonesians are usually forgiving of genuine mistakes.
Culture & etiquette
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Is English widely spoken in Indonesia?
English is common in major tourist destinations but drops off quickly outside them. In smaller towns and less-visited islands, basic Indonesian is often more useful than English. Learning a handful of phrases goes a long way.
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What does almost every tourist get wrong about Indonesia?
Many visitors assume Indonesia is basically Bali. In reality, Bali is only one small part of a huge country with very different cultures, religions and landscapes. Planning around that difference leads to a much richer trip.
Food & drink
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What are the best local foods to try in Indonesia?
Start with nasi goreng, satay and rendang, then branch out into regional dishes. Yogyakarta is known for gudeg, while Bali has babi guling and ayam betutu. Busy local eateries are often a better guide than heavily marketed tourist restaurants.
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Is Indonesia vegan-friendly?
It is easier than many visitors expect, especially in Bali and larger cities. Tempeh, tofu, vegetable curries and peanut-based dishes are common. Outside tourist areas, clarify ingredients carefully because fish sauce, shrimp paste and egg are frequently used.
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Is Indonesia good for halal travel?
Yes. Halal food is widely available across most of the country, and many hotels provide prayer facilities or information about nearby mosques. Bali is a notable exception where non-halal food is common, though halal options are still easy to find.
Families & kids
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Is Indonesia a good place to travel with kids?
Yes, provided you choose destinations carefully. Bali, Yogyakarta and parts of Lombok are easy with children, while remote islands can involve long transfers and limited medical facilities. Heat, traffic and uneven pavements are often bigger challenges than locals, who are usually very welcoming toward kids.
Other
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Do I need a VPN in Indonesia?
Most travellers can get by without one, but a VPN is useful for public Wi-Fi security and accessing content from home. Streaming libraries often differ from what you see in your own country. Many remote workers and long-term travellers use one routinely.