Explore Indonesia: 17,000 Islands of Adventure

Q: Is Indonesia safe for tourists?

Indonesia is generally safe for tourists, with millions of visitors enjoying its beaches, culture, and natural parks each year. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so stay vigilant and keep valuables secure. Always check local travel advisories and register with your embassy if you plan to visit remote regions.

Q: What is the best time to visit Indonesia?

The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period offers sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for island hopping, diving, and exploring cultural sites. Keep in mind that popular destinations like Bali can be crowded in July and August.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Indonesia?

Visa requirements for Indonesia vary by nationality, but many travelers can enter visa-free for stays up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival or a social-cultural visa in advance. Always verify the latest regulations with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before traveling.

Q: How can I get around in Indonesia?

Indonesia’s transportation options include domestic flights, ferries, trains, buses, and ride-hailing apps like Gojek. For island hopping, ferries and speedboats connect major destinations such as Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands. Within cities, motorbike taxis and ride-share services offer convenient, affordable rides.

Q: What currency is used in Indonesia?

The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are widely available in urban areas and tourist hubs, though they may charge withdrawal fees. It’s wise to carry small denominations of IDR for markets, street food, and taxis.

Q: What language is spoken in Indonesia?

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language spoken nationwide, making communication relatively easy for travelers. English is commonly understood in hotels, major tourist areas, and larger cities. Learning a few basic Indonesian phrases will enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.

Q: Is it expensive to travel in Indonesia?

Indonesia can be very budget-friendly, especially outside of major tourist hotspots. Street food and local transport are cheap, while luxury resorts and high-end restaurants are available for splurges. Your daily budget will vary based on accommodation style, activities, and the islands you visit.

Q: How many days should I spend in Indonesia?

A minimum of 10–14 days allows you to explore Bali, Java, and a few neighboring islands at a relaxed pace. For a more in-depth experience, consider 3–4 weeks to include destinations like Lombok, Flores, and Sumatra. Travel times between islands can be significant, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Q: What are the must-see attractions in Indonesia?

Top attractions in Indonesia include Bali’s rice terraces and beaches, Java’s Borobudur and Bromo volcano, and Komodo National Park for its legendary dragons. Don’t miss the cultural heritage of Yogyakarta or the underwater wonders of Raja Ampat. Each island offers unique landscapes, traditions, and wildlife experiences.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Indonesia?

Routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, and polio are recommended for all travelers to Indonesia. Depending on your itinerary, you may also need hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies vaccines. Consult your doctor 6–8 weeks before departure to ensure you’re up to date.

About Indonesia

Indonesia is where emerald rice terraces, volcano-dotted horizons, and 17,000 sun-kissed islands collide in one epic adventure playground. From legendary sunsets draping Bali’s beach bars to mystical sunrise treks up Mount Bromo, this archipelago begs you to explore. A vibrant mashup of colorful ceremonies, buzzing street markets, and kebaya-clad parades makes every day feel like a festival.

Dream of diving with manta rays around Komodo, spotting dragons roaming Komodo Island, or slipping into a hidden waterfall under a jungle canopy? Indonesia’s natural wonders will blow your mind — whether you’re snorkeling in Raja Ampat’s kaleidoscopic reefs, surfing world-class waves on the Mentawais, or trekking through Borneo’s ancient rainforests to find orangutans swinging among the trees.

Foodies, pack your bags: every city street is a treasure trove of spicy nasi goreng, street-side satay skewers, and sweet, coconutty treats. Friendly locals greet curious travelers with warm smiles and endless stories, and each region surprises you with its own dialect, music, and handicrafts. Expect a wild kaleidoscope of color, flavor, and adventure around every corner — Indonesia’s magic will stick with you long after you’ve tossed your swimsuit back into your suitcase.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your trip around the weather and seasons for the best experience.

Jan

Poor

Feb

Poor

Mar

Good

Apr

Good

May

Best

Jun

Best

Jul

Good

Aug

Good

Sep

Best

Oct

Good

Nov

Fair

Dec

Fair

Indonesia experiences two main seasons across its vast archipelago: the dry season from May to September offers clear skies, calm seas, and warm temperatures ideal for beach hopping and volcano treks, while the wet season from October to April brings heavy rainfall, especially between December and March. During the peak dry months of June through August, destinations like Bali, Java, and Lombok enjoy near-perfect weather, but crowds and prices surge. Shoulder months May and September strike a perfect balance with pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower rates, making them the sweetest spots for diving, surfing, and cultural festivals across the islands.

July and August see major events such as the Bali Arts Festival and Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations on August 17th, drawing artists and travelers alike but also driving up hotel rates and flight costs. April and October remain good opportunities to explore Java's temples and Sumatra's rainforests with moderate rainfall and manageable crowds. Meanwhile, the rainy season extends from November to March, with the heaviest downpours in January and February, which can dampen plans but also offer unbeatable deals and a greener landscape for wildlife spotting in Borneo or Raja Ampat diving expeditions.

If you don't mind occasional showers, the off-peak months from November through March provide quieter beaches, discounted accommodations, and unique surf breaks on the Mentawai Islands. December sees a spike in holiday travelers around Christmas and New Year in Bali's hotspots despite the rains, so plan ahead if you aim to ring in the new year on Kuta or Seminyak beaches.

Explore Indonesia

Discover the top destinations within Indonesia

See all

Ubud

Explore Ubud - Bali's cultural heart of rice terraces, temples and art markets. Meet monkeys in Sacred Monkey Forest, join yoga classes and savor cuisine.

Canggu

Discover Canggu's trendy surf spots, lush rice paddies, vibrant cafes, and nightlife. Plan days wandering temples, markets, and Bali culture with InTrip.me

Seminyak

Explore Seminyak's elegant beachfront vibe - from golden sands, chic beach clubs, and artisan boutiques to luxe spas and rooftop bars. Your boho base in Bali.

Budget & Costs

Daily cost per person at three spending levels. Pick your style and know exactly what to expect.

Budget

Rp400,000-750,000 ($25-45)

per person / day

Backpackers on a tight budget seeking local experiences

Basic hostels or homestays, street food for most meals, public transport and free or low‑cost attractions

Stay

Rp150,000-300,000 ($9-18)

Dorm beds in hostels or simple homestays with shared bathrooms

Food

Rp100,000-200,000 ($6-12)

Warungs and street stalls offering local dishes like nasi goreng and satay

Transport

Rp50,000-150,000 ($3-9)

Local buses, angkot, shared ojeks (motorcycle taxis)

Activities

Rp0-200,000 ($0-12)

Free walking tours, beach visits, hiking and inexpensive temple visits

Popular

Mid-Range

Rp1,000,000-1,800,000 ($60-110)

per person / day

Couples and solo travelers wanting a balance of comfort and value

3‑star hotels or private guesthouses, mix of local eateries and casual restaurants, occasional guided tours

Stay

Rp500,000-1,000,000 ($30-60)

Mid‑range hotels or boutique guesthouses with AC and private bathrooms

Food

Rp200,000-350,000 ($12-22)

Local restaurants, casual dining spots and western‑style cafes

Transport

Rp150,000-350,000 ($9-22)

Taxis, app‑based rideshares (Gojek/Grab), private car hires for day trips

Activities

Rp100,000-500,000 ($6-30)

Guided tours, museum and temple entry fees, boat trips and snorkeling

Comfort

Rp2,500,000-4,500,000 ($150-270)

per person / day

Families and luxury seekers desiring a premium experience

4‑5 star resorts or upscale villas, fine dining, private drivers or domestic flights, exclusive excursions

Stay

Rp1,500,000-3,000,000 ($90-180)

Luxury resorts or beachfront villas with high‑end amenities

Food

Rp500,000-800,000 ($30-50)

Fine dining, upscale international restaurants and gourmet experiences

Transport

Rp400,000-800,000 ($24-50)

Private transfers, domestic flights, chauffeur‑driven cars

Activities

Rp300,000-1,000,000 ($18-60)

Private guided tours, spa treatments, diving and island‑hopping excursions

Quick Price Reference

Bowl of Nasi Goreng

Rp15,000-30,000 ($1-2)

Local bus/angkot ride

Rp3,500-10,000 ($0.25-0.70)

Ojek (motorcycle taxi) 5km

Rp20,000-30,000 ($1.40-2.10)

1L bottled water

Rp4,000-8,000 ($0.25-0.50)

Kopi Tubruk (local coffee)

Rp5,000-10,000 ($0.35-0.70)

Borobudur entrance fee

Rp350,000 ($24)

Domestic flight (Jakarta–Bali)

Rp700,000-1,500,000 ($42-90)

SIM card with 5GB data

Rp50,000-100,000 ($3-7)

Getting There & Around

How to arrive and navigate your way through the destination.

Getting There

Fly into Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta and take the Airport Rail Link or DAMRI bus to Gambir station in the city center.
Land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali and hop on the Kura-Kura Bus or a metered taxi to reach Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud.
Arrive at Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya and use the DAMRI airport shuttle to Pasar Turi station or grab a Blue Bird taxi.
Take international ferries from Singapore (HarbourFront) or Malaysia (Port Klang) to Batam or Bintan, then catch a connecting flight to major Indonesian hubs.
For Lombok and the Gili Islands, land at Lombok International Airport (LOP) then take a public shuttle or taxi to Bangsal harbor for fast boats.

Getting Around

Use TransJakarta BRT and MRT Jakarta for fast, affordable travel across Jakarta—both networks accept e-money cards.
Pick up and top up an e-money card (Mandiri e-Money, BCA Flazz, or Jakcard) to pay for buses, trains, ferries, parking, and even street vendors.
Book metered Blue Bird taxis via the MyBlueBird app or hail Gojek/Grab for motorbike taxis (ojek) and car rides—avoid unlicensed cabs.
Rent a scooter in Bali or Yogyakarta for maximum flexibility, but always carry your international driving permit and wear a helmet.
In Yogyakarta and Ubud, explore on foot—central Malioboro and Jalan Hanoman are compact, pedestrian-friendly zones.
Opt for bike rentals in Jakarta’s City Hall area or at Taman Suropati, or join GoBike via Gojek for short urban hops.

Pro Tip

Book inter-island flights on budget carriers (Lion Air, Citilink) at least a month in advance—especially around Lebaran—so you lock in lower fares and availability.

Where to Stay

The best neighborhoods and areas for different types of travelers.

Ubud, Bali

Culture enthusiasts & nature seekers

Lush rice terraces, yoga retreats, and a thriving arts scene in the heart of Bali’s interior. Perfect for immersive wellness experiences and local craft markets.

Price range IDR 300,000-2,000,000/night

Seminyak, Bali

Luxury beach club vibes

Upscale resorts, high-end beach clubs, fine dining restaurants, and boutique shopping along trendy streets with sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

Price range IDR 800,000-5,000,000/night

Canggu, Bali

Digital nomads & surf culture

Hip cafés, coworking spaces, world‑class surf breaks, and a laid‑back atmosphere. Ideal for remote workers and young travelers seeking nightlife and wellness.

Price range IDR 350,000-2,500,000/night

Yogyakarta (Malioboro), Java

Budget travelers & heritage tours

Affordable guesthouses near iconic Malioboro Street, gateway to Borobudur and Prambanan temples, with vibrant street food and traditional art performances.

Price range IDR 200,000-1,500,000/night

Menteng, Jakarta

Business & urban living

Central location with upscale hotels, business districts, embassies, gourmet dining, and leafy parks. Great for business travelers and city explorers.

Price range IDR 500,000-4,000,000/night

Labuan Bajo, Flores

Island hopping & adventure

Launchpad for Komodo National Park tours, luxury boat stays, diving spots, and cliffside restaurants overlooking the bay. Perfect for adventurous travelers.

Price range IDR 400,000-2,500,000/night

Food & Dining

Indonesia’s culinary landscape is a vibrant blend of regional traditions, bold spices, and fresh ingredients. From bustling street markets to coastal warungs, you’ll find an endless array of flavorful dishes. Whether you’re craving fiery sambals or aromatic coconut-rich curries, Indonesian food promises an unforgettable dining adventure.

Must-Try Dishes

Nasi Goreng

Indonesia’s iconic fried rice stir‑fried with kecap manis, shallots, garlic, chili, vegetables, and topped with a fried egg.

Rp25,000 - 50,000 ($1.70 - $3.50)

Satay (Sate Ayam)

Grilled chicken skewers marinated in turmeric and spices, served with a rich peanut sauce and rice cakes.

Rp20,000 - 35,000 ($1.40 - $2.40)

Rendang

Tender beef slow‑cooked in coconut milk with lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and chilies until deeply flavorful and caramelized.

Rp40,000 - 60,000 ($2.80 - $4.20)

Gado Gado

A colorful salad of steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and boiled egg, drizzled with a creamy peanut dressing and crispy shallots.

Rp20,000 - 35,000 ($1.40 - $2.40)

Soto Ayam

Fragrant turmeric chicken soup with vermicelli, bean sprouts, boiled egg, and fresh herbs, served with lime and sambal.

Rp15,000 - 30,000 ($1.00 - $2.10)

Bakso

Hearty meatball soup featuring beef or chicken meatballs, noodles, tofu, and a side of savory broth and spicy sambal.

Rp15,000 - 25,000 ($1.00 - $1.70)

Culture & Etiquette

Respect local customs and make meaningful connections with these tips.

Do's

Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and certain shops
Greet with a slight nod or handshake; bow slightly to show respect to elders
Use your right hand when giving, receiving, or eating traditional dishes
Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites: cover shoulders and knees
Learn and use basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases: "Selamat pagi", "Terima kasih", "Tolong"
Carry small-denomination rupiah notes and coins - many warungs and markets are cash-only
Respect Ramadan: avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in Muslim-majority regions

Don'ts

Don't use your left hand for eating, handing items, or shaking hands
Don't point with your index finger—use your thumb or whole hand
Don't touch someone's head or pass items over their head
Don't show the soles of your feet or point your feet at people or sacred objects
Don't display loud public affection; keep hugs and kisses private
Don't photograph people (especially children or religious ceremonies) without permission
Don't discuss sensitive political issues or criticize local customs and religions

Safety & Emergency

Indonesia is generally safe for travelers, though petty theft and natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can occur. Exercise common-sense precautions, stay informed of local conditions, and register with your embassy when visiting remote regions.

Emergency Contacts

Search & Rescue (BASARNAS)

136

Tourist Police

In urban areas dial the appropriate number above or the universal mobile emergency number 112. Response times may be slower in rural and remote islands, and English proficiency can be limited outside major tourist centers.

Health & Medical

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consider hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines.
Drink bottled or purified water and avoid ice from street vendors.
Use insect repellent and consider antimalarial prophylaxis if visiting rural or forested areas.
Practice good food hygiene by eating at reputable establishments and avoiding undercooked dishes.
Carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
Pack a basic medical kit with anti-diarrheal medicine, pain relievers, and prescription copies.

Safety Tips

Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items in crowded markets.

Use reputable transportation services or ride‑hailing apps; avoid unlicensed taxis.

Be aware of natural disaster procedures and heed official evacuation orders during earthquakes or volcanic events.

Stay updated on local travel advisories and steer clear of protests or large political gatherings.

Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.

Store digital copies of your passport and important documents separately from the originals.

Travel Tips

Insider advice to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Get a Local SIM Card at the Airport

Purchase a prepaid SIM card from Telkomsel or XL at the arrival hall to stay connected throughout Indonesia.

Learn Basic Bahasa Indonesia Phrases

Master simple greetings and common expressions to navigate interactions and show respect to locals.

Pack Lightweight, Breathable Clothing

Choose moisture-wicking fabrics and bring a light rain jacket for sudden tropical showers.

Stay Hydrated and Avoid Tap Water

Drink bottled or purified water and carry a refillable bottle with a built‑in filter for a safer hydration option.

Use Trusted Ride‑Hailing Apps

Download Gojek or Grab for reliable transport and food delivery, especially in urban areas.

Respect Local Customs and Dress Codes

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or rural villages to honor cultural norms.

Plan Island Hopping in Advance

Book inter‑island flights or ferries ahead of time and check schedules to avoid last‑minute hassles.

Carry Small Denominations of Cash

Keep rupiah notes in smaller bills for street food stalls, local markets, and public restrooms that don’t accept cards.

Useful Apps

Download these before your trip for a smoother experience.

Google Maps

Navigation

Offline maps and real-time traffic updates for exploring cities like Jakarta and Bali.

Google Translate

Language

Translate signs and conversations with offline Bahasa Indonesia packs.

Traveloka

Flight & Hotel Booking

Compare prices and book domestic flights, ferries, and accommodations across Indonesia.

Gojek

Ride‑Hailing & Delivery

Book motorbike taxis, car rides, and order meals or groceries in major cities.

Grab

Food Delivery & Transport

Access food delivery, car rides, and parcel services with easy payment integration.

DANA

Digital Wallet

Make cashless payments at merchants and top up phone credits across Indonesia.

Travel Responsibly

Indonesia’s archipelago of over 17,000 islands boasts spectacular biodiversity, rich cultural traditions, and world‑class marine ecosystems. However, rapid tourism growth, plastic pollution, and habitat loss threaten these natural treasures. By traveling mindfully—minimizing waste, supporting community‑based initiatives, and choosing low‑impact services—you can help preserve Indonesia’s environment and uplift local communities for generations to come.

Choose Eco‑Friendly Accommodations

Book lodgings certified by organizations like Green Globe or EarthCheck, or stay at community-run ecolodges in villages (e.g., Tenganan in Bali or Wae Rebo in Flores) that use renewable energy, practice water conservation, and reinvest profits into local education and health projects.

Reduce Single‑Use Plastic

Carry a refillable stainless steel bottle and reusable shopping bag. Refill at local filtered water stations (“tapon”) found in many towns and use bulk refill shops for toiletries to avoid plastic packaging.

Support Local and Ethical Businesses

Buy handwoven textiles, organic coffee, and handcrafted souvenirs directly from certified cooperatives and fair‑trade markets in Java, Sumatra, or Sulawesi to ensure artisans earn fair wages and avoid products made from endangered species.

Travel by Low‑Impact Transport

Opt for public ferries or sailboats between islands instead of speedboats, and use trains, shared minibuses, or local bemos on Java and Bali. This reduces carbon emissions while supporting local transportation networks.

Respect Marine and Wildlife Conservation

Choose dive operators in Raja Ampat or Wakatobi with reef‑safe practices, maintain a respectful distance from corals and animals, and never buy products made from endangered species (e.g., turtle shell jewelry or wild‑caught wildlife).

Participate in Community‑Led Conservation

Join local beach cleanups in Bali or coral‑planting and reforestation projects in Borneo organized by Indonesian NGOs. Your hands‑on support boosts conservation efforts and strengthens community stewardship of natural resources.