Indonesia Travel Advice
Indonesia is a vast archipelago in Southeast Asia, made up of over 17,000 islands, with major islands including Java, Sumatra, Borneo (shared with Malaysia and Brunei), Sulawesi, and Papua (shared with Papua New Guinea).
With a tropical climate, the country experiences high temperatures and humidity year-round, along with distinct rainy and dry seasons, which vary by region.
The Javanese and Sundanese people form the largest ethnic groups, while Balinese, Batak, and Minangkabau, among others, contribute to the nation’s cultural fabric. Although Islam is the predominant religion, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity also have significant followings, particularly in Bali and North Sumatra.
Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s largest economy, characterized by its vast natural resources, a thriving manufacturing sector, and a growing digital economy. Major exports include palm oil, coal, natural gas, and textiles, while tourism plays a significant economic role, particularly in Bali and regions like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and East Nusa Tenggara. While Indonesia is classified as a middle-income country, it faces challenges in infrastructure, income inequality, and sustainable resource management.
Indonesia is a popular destination for tourists, known for its diverse landscapes, beaches, volcanoes, and cultural landmarks. Bali is internationally renowned for its beaches, cultural heritage, and luxury resorts, while Yogyakarta and Borobudur offer insights into Javanese history and spirituality. The marine biodiversity in Raja Ampat and the ancient Komodo dragons of Komodo Island are also major attractions.
Indonesia is an influential member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and plays a pivotal role in regional trade and diplomacy. Key challenges include managing environmental issues, such as deforestation, air pollution from palm oil plantations, and marine conservation in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Additionally, Indonesia is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Visiting Indonesia FAQsHire a bodyguard in Indonesia
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Indonesia, please visit our website for our Bodyguard Services in Indonesia.
Key Information for Indonesia
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 110
Fire emergency: 113
Medical emergency: 118
Country Overview
Capital City: Jakarta
Note:New Capital will be in East Kalimantan
Official State Language(s): Indonesian
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni)
State Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Indonesia?
Indonesia is the largest and most influential member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), playing a key role in regional diplomacy, economic policies, and maritime security.
Its strategic position along the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes, underscores its importance in international trade and security.
South China Sea Disputes: Although Indonesia does not claim territory in the contested South China Sea, its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) near the Natuna Islands overlaps with China's "nine-dash line" claims. Indonesia has strengthened its military presence in the area and conducted naval patrols to deter foreign incursions, positioning itself as a defender of ASEAN's territorial sovereignty.
Diplomatic Relations: Indonesia maintains a neutral, non-aligned stance in international politics, seeking good relations with major powers like the United States, China, Japan, and Russia. Its foreign policy emphasizes “free and active” diplomacy, though it faces balancing pressures in regional power dynamics, especially as U.S.-China competition intensifies in Southeast Asia.
Domestic Security Concerns:
Since the early 2000s, Indonesia has faced persistent terrorist threats, primarily from Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and more recently from ISIS-inspired groups. Despite dismantling many networks, regions like Central Sulawesi remain hotspots, where elite counter-terrorism units are actively deployed.
Additionally, separatist tensions persist in Papua and West Papua, where the Free Papua Movement (OPM) advocates for independence. Indonesian security forces maintain a strong military presence in these regions to manage ongoing clashes, which occasionally impact civilians.
Organized Crime:
Indonesia is a key market and transit route for narcotics, especially methamphetamines, heroin, and marijuana, trafficked by both regional and international cartels.
In response, the government enforces strict drug laws, including capital punishment for major offenders, as part of its intensive “War on Drugs.” Human trafficking is also prevalent, with Indonesia serving as a source, transit, and destination for victims exploited in forced labor, domestic servitude, and sex trafficking. The archipelago's vast geography complicates monitoring efforts, though the government has initiated anti-trafficking measures to curb these networks.
Visiting Indonesia FAQsHealth Emergencies in Indonesia
In Indonesia, several health emergencies and public health challenges are ongoing, largely due to infectious disease outbreaks, environmental health risks, and limited healthcare resources, particularly in rural areas.
Current Health Emergencies:
Dengue Fever: Indonesia experiences regular outbreaks of dengue fever, especially during the rainy season. Dengue transmission is widespread due to favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, particularly in urban areas with poor sanitation. Public health campaigns focus on mosquito control and public awareness, but cases remain high, straining local healthcare facilities.
Tuberculosis (TB): Indonesia has one of the highest TB burdens in the world, ranking among the top countries for incidence rates. Efforts are underway to expand testing and treatment, though challenges remain, particularly in reaching rural communities with limited access to health services.
Polio: In certain provinces, including Aceh, cases of vaccine-derived poliovirus have reemerged due to low vaccination rates. Health authorities are running immunization campaigns to prevent the spread, with a focus on improving vaccination coverage in areas with low immunization rates.
Medical Facilities in Indonesia:
Public vs. Private Facilities: Indonesia’s healthcare system comprises public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Public facilities are managed by the Ministry of Health, providing essential services at reduced or no cost, especially for citizens enrolled in the national health insurance program (BPJS Kesehatan). However, public facilities can be crowded, with long wait times and limited resources.
Primary Care and Rural Access: In rural areas, healthcare is often delivered by community health centers known as Puskesmas, which provide basic services like maternal care, immunizations, and primary care. However, these centers often struggle with staffing shortages, limited equipment, and inconsistent medical supplies, impacting the quality and availability of care.
Urban and Private Hospitals: Major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali have well-equipped private hospitals with specialized services, often frequented by expatriates and medical tourists. These hospitals offer higher standards of care but are generally more expensive, making them less accessible to lower-income populations.
Emergency and Critical Care: Emergency care is available in larger hospitals in urban areas but can be limited in rural regions. Transporting critically ill patients to equipped facilities can be challenging due to Indonesia's geography and infrastructure, especially in the outer islands.
Challenges in Healthcare Delivery:
Resource Limitations: Medical facilities, especially in remote and rural areas, often face shortages of medical personnel, supplies, and diagnostic equipment. This is further strained during outbreaks or emergencies, where the demand for healthcare services increases sharply.
Healthcare Workforce: Indonesia has a lower-than-recommended ratio of healthcare professionals to population, leading to workforce shortages. This challenge is exacerbated in rural areas where attracting and retaining medical staff is difficult.
In summary, while Indonesia is making efforts to improve healthcare access and manage health emergencies, challenges in resource allocation, healthcare accessibility, and service quality persist. International support and public health interventions are integral in managing these ongoing health issues.
FAQs for visiting Indonesia
You can find the following embassies in Indonesia for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Jakarta
Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan L5-6,
Jakarta Pusat,
DKI Jakarta 10110,
Indonesia
Telephone: +62 21 3435 9000
Telephone: +62 36 1233 605 (Bali)
Telephone: +62 61 4519 000 (Medan)
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
British Embassy Jakarta
Jl. Patra Kuningan Raya Blok L5-6,
Setiabudi,
Jakarta Selatan,
DKI Jakarta 12950,
Indonesia
Telephone: +62 21 2356 5200
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
For UK and US citizens planning to visit Indonesia, there are several visa options depending on the purpose and duration of your stay:
Visa on Arrival (VoA):
Eligibility: Available for UK and US passport holders for tourism, business meetings, or social purposes.
Validity: Allows a stay of up to 30 days.
Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days at immigration offices within Indonesia.
Cost: 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (around £25 or $35), payable in cash or by card upon arrival.
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Return or onward travel ticket.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay.
Application: Obtainable upon arrival at designated entry points or online via Indonesia’s official eVisa website.
Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA):
Eligibility: Similar to the VoA, suitable for short-term visits.
Application: Apply online before departure through the official eVisa website.
Process:
- Create an account, complete the application form, and upload necessary documents.
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Receive the e-VoA via email and present it (printed or digital) upon arrival in Indonesia.
Visit Visa (B211A):
Purpose: Suitable for activities beyond tourism, such as social visits, cultural activities, or specific business purposes.
Validity: Permits a stay of up to 60 days.
Extension: Extendable up to four times, each extension granting an additional 30 days.
Application: Requires application through an Indonesian Embassy or Consulate or with a sponsor in Indonesia.
Requirements:
- Completed application form and passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Recent passport-sized photo, proof of funds, and a return or onward travel ticket.
- Additional documents as specified by the embassy or consulate.
Multiple Entry Visa:
Purpose: Ideal for frequent visitors to Indonesia for family, business, or governmental purposes.
Validity: Valid for one year, allowing multiple entries, with each stay up to 60 days.
Application: Requires application at an Indonesian Embassy or Consulate, including a sponsor letter and supporting documents.
Important Considerations:
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date and has at least two blank pages.
Health Requirements: Stay updated on health declarations or vaccination requirements.
Regulations: Visa regulations may change, so it’s recommended to consult the Indonesian Embassy in the UK, the US Embassy, or check the UK and US government travel advice for Indonesia for the latest details.
Indonesia has faced several terrorist-related incidents in recent years, reflecting ongoing security challenges:
Plot to Assassinate Pope Francis (September 2024): In September 2024, Indonesian authorities thwarted a plot to assassinate Pope Francis during his visit to Jakarta. Seven suspects, allegedly inspired by ISIS, were arrested. Weapons, a drone, and ISIS propaganda materials were seized. The suspects were reportedly angered by the Pope's visit to a Jakarta mosque and had made threats on social media.
Arrests of Suspected Militants Ahead of Elections (October 2023): In October 2023, Indonesia's counter-terrorism unit arrested 59 suspected militants over a plot to attack police facilities to disrupt the presidential and legislative elections scheduled for February 2024. The suspects were linked to groups such as Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) and Jemaah Islamiyah (JI).
Rising Online Terrorism Content (October 2024): The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) reported a shift in terrorism tactics, with an increase in online platforms targeting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. Approximately 2,200 social media accounts circulating over 10,500 terrorism-related posts were identified from January to September 2024.
Separatist Activities in Papua (Ongoing): Separatist rebels in Papua have continued their activities, including the abduction of New Zealand pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens in February 2023. Military operations to rescue him have raised concerns about his safety.
These incidents highlight the evolving nature of terrorist threats in Indonesia, with a shift towards online radicalization and continued separatist tensions in certain regions.
Before visiting Indonesia, it’s recommended to have certain vaccinations, especially if you plan to travel to rural areas or engage in activities that may expose you to health risks. Here’s an overview of recommended vaccines:
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date, including:
Routine Vaccinations:
Ensure you are up to date on all routine vaccinations, including:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza
Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water, and it is recommended for all travelers visiting Indonesia, as it can be contracted even in cities with good sanitation.
Hepatitis B:
Spread through contact with blood or bodily fluids, Hepatitis B is recommended for those who may engage in activities involving close contact with the local population or those requiring medical procedures.
Typhoid:
Typhoid fever is also spread through contaminated food and water. The vaccine is particularly important if you plan to eat food from street vendors or in rural areas of Indonesia.
Japanese Encephalitis: Consider this vaccine if you plan to stay for extended periods in rural areas of Indonesia or during the monsoon season, particularly in areas where mosquito exposure is common.
Rabies: This is recommended if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, where you might come into contact with stray animals, particularly dogs.
Malaria Prevention: Malaria is present in Indonesia; whether or not anti-malarial medications are recommended will need to be discussed with a medical practitioner.
Additional Considerations::
Dengue Fever: There's no vaccine widely available for travelers; focus on mosquito bite prevention.
Chikungunya and Zika Virus: Also transmitted by mosquitoes; preventive measures are essential.
It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider 4–6 weeks before travel to ensure all vaccinations and preventive measures are up-to-date based on your specific travel plans and destinations.
Public Transportation in Indonesia:
Indonesia’s public transportation options vary widely by region, with more organized systems in urban centers like Jakarta and less structured options in rural areas.
Jakarta and Major Cities:
TransJakarta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Jakarta has an extensive BRT system known as TransJakarta, which operates in dedicated lanes to avoid traffic and connect key points across the city.
Commuter Trains: In the Greater Jakarta area, the KRL Commuter Line connects suburbs and nearby cities with the capital.
Jakarta MRT and LRT: The Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems are newer, reliable options for city travel.
Buses and Minibuses:
Public Buses: Large public buses are common in major cities and towns, though routes may be confusing for newcomers due to language and inconsistent schedules.
Angkot (Shared Minibuses): These small, shared minibuses operate on fixed routes and are common in cities and towns. They’re affordable but often crowded and lack air conditioning.
Ride-Hailing Services:
Gojek and Grab: Popular ride-hailing apps, Gojek and Grab, offer motorbike and car rides, food delivery, and other services. Motorbike taxis (ojek) are often the fastest way to navigate traffic in busy cities like Jakarta and Bali.
Intercity Travel:
Long-Distance Buses: Buses connect major cities and islands, with a variety of operators providing comfortable services with different levels of amenities.
Trains: Java and parts of Sumatra have extensive train networks operated by PT Kereta Api Indonesia. Trains are popular for travel between major cities on Java, such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya.
Ferries: Ferries connect Indonesia’s islands, operated by ASDP Indonesia Ferry and other private companies. They vary in quality, with large ferries for popular routes and smaller boats for less-traveled destinations.
Taxis:
Taxis are available in urban centers and tourist areas, operated by reputable companies like Blue Bird. Metered taxis are generally reliable and safe, though it’s recommended to use trusted companies or apps.
Driving on a Foreign License:
To legally drive in Indonesia, foreign visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their valid home country driver’s license. An IDP is typically required by car rental companies and for insurance purposes.
Some long-term residents apply for an Indonesian driver’s license, which requires passing a local driving test.
Road Conditions and Driving Culture:
Road Quality: Major city roads and highways are generally well-maintained. However, rural and smaller roads may be narrow, lack signage, or have potholes.
Traffic Conditions: Traffic can be very congested in cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya, with motorbikes weaving between cars. Drivers should exercise caution and patience.
Driving Culture: Indonesian driving culture may be challenging for foreigners, with frequent lane changes, minimal adherence to lane discipline, and crowded roads. Motorbikes dominate traffic, and it’s common to encounter unpredictable driving behaviors.
Parking: Parking can be difficult in busy urban centers, and many areas have limited street parking. Shopping malls and hotels typically offer secure parking facilities.
Safety Tips for Driving:
- Be vigilant, especially for motorbikes overtaking or moving unpredictably.
- Avoid driving at night in rural areas, as road lighting can be limited.
- Always carry your IDP and insurance documents.
Public transportation is a practical choice for short-term visitors in urban areas, while driving is more feasible for experienced drivers familiar with local conditions or those traveling to remote areas.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Indonesia, please contact our Kuala Lumpur office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
Wisma Selangor Dredging, 142C Jalan Ampang
West Block, 15th Floor
50450, Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Telephone: +60 32772 7346
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Indonesia is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.