Indonesia Travel Advisory
Indonesia Travel Advisory Planning a trip to Indonesia in 2025? This updated Indonesia travel advisory covers everything you need to know before you go. From visa rules and health precautions to safety tips and top destinations, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate your journey with confidence.
Whether you’re dreaming of Bali’s beaches, exploring ancient temples in Java, or diving in Raja Ampat, being prepared ensures a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free experience.
Entry Requirements for Indonesia (2025 Update)
Indonesia has reopened to international travelers. Citizens from more than 80 countries—including the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and many EU nations—are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA). The visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- At least one blank passport page
There are no longer any mandatory COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry, but being vaccinated is still strongly advised for health and safety.
Bonus tip: Always double-check current immigration rules on official Indonesian government websites or with your local embassy before departure, as entry policies can change quickly.
Health and Safety Guidelines
When visiting Indonesia, it’s smart to take health precautions, especially if you’re planning to explore nature or rural regions.
Recommended vaccinations:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus
- Rabies (for rural trips or animal exposure)
Mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue fever and malaria (in remote areas), are a concern. Bring insect repellent, wear long sleeves at night, and consider antimalarial medication if visiting jungle regions.
Travel insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
Weather and Natural Disaster Awareness
Indonesia’s location on the Ring of Fire means that earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are part of the landscape. While most visits are incident-free, staying informed is key.
If you’re near Mount Bromo, Mount Merapi, or Mount Agung, always check the latest alerts and avoid restricted zones.
Best time to visit:
- Dry season (April–October): Ideal for beach holidays, diving, and hiking
- Rainy season (November–March): Expect heavy showers, especially in Sumatra and Borneo
Always monitor BMKG (Indonesia’s Meteorological Agency) for weather and geological updates.
Is Indonesia Safe for Tourists?
Yes—Indonesia is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas like Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Lombok. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft such as pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur in crowded spots.
Top safety tips:
- Don’t flash valuables
- Use hotel safes
- Take licensed taxis or ride apps like Grab or Gojek
- Be cautious at night, especially when traveling solo
Tourists should also avoid political demonstrations and respect local customs, particularly during Ramadan or in conservative regions.
Local Customs and Cultural Etiquette
Indonesia is a diverse, majority-Muslim country. While Bali has a more relaxed vibe, other regions may have conservative dress codes and cultural expectations.
Cultural tips:
- Dress modestly outside of beach areas
- Remove shoes before entering someone’s home or temple
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Learn a few Indonesian phrases like “Terima kasih” (thank you)
Being polite and respectful goes a long way and is appreciated by locals.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Indonesia can be part of the adventure. Here are the top transport options for tourists:
- Domestic flights: Fastest way to travel between islands
- Ferries: Budget-friendly but check safety ratings
- Scooters: Common in Bali and Lombok—wear a helmet!
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Gojek are safe and reliable
Traffic in cities like Jakarta can be intense, so allow extra time if traveling by car or bus. When exploring rural or island areas, flexibility is key due to possible delays or cancellations.
Internet Access and Connectivity
Indonesia has good mobile coverage in most cities and popular tourist areas. Buy a local SIM card from Telkomsel, XL Axiata, or Indosat at the airport for cheap and fast data.
Wi-Fi is available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist zones. In remote areas, expect slower connections or no signal at all—perfect for a digital detox!
Money and Costs
The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Prices can vary widely depending on where you are, but Indonesia is generally an affordable destination.
- ATMs are widely available
- Cash is preferred in rural areas and street markets
- Credit cards are accepted in hotels and major restaurants
Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated. Bargaining is common in markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate respectfully.
Top Destinations in Indonesia
Indonesia offers a lifetime of adventure. Here are the most popular tourist spots:
- Bali: Beaches, temples, nightlife, and yoga retreats
- Yogyakarta (Java): Gateway to Borobudur and Prambanan temples
- Komodo National Park: See the famous dragons and dive in pristine waters
- Sumatra: Jungle treks, orangutans, and crater lakes
- Raja Ampat (Papua): One of the world’s most stunning dive sites
- Lombok & Gili Islands: Surfing, snorkeling, and peaceful getaways
Each region has its own unique culture, cuisine, and charm—ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventurers alike.
Final Travel Tips for Indonesia
- Register with your embassy in case of emergencies
- Download offline maps and Google Translate
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists (overpriced taxis, fake tours, etc.)
- Stay hydrated and pack light clothing for the tropical heat
Conclusion
Indonesia is one of the most diverse and rewarding travel destinations in the world. Whether you’re after relaxation, exploration, or cultural discovery, this vast archipelago has it all. By following this Indonesia travel advisory, staying informed, and respecting local customs, you’ll have everything you need for a safe, memorable, and unforgettable journey.
Ready to discover Indonesia in 2025? Safe travels, and enjoy the adventure!
