Travel Guide to Indonesia
A comprehensive guide to exploring Indonesia – from the temples and beaches of Bali and the rice terraces of Ubud to the ancient Borobudur temple, Komodo dragons, world-class Raja Ampat diving, the Gili Islands, and volcanic adventures across Java and Lombok. Covering major cities and islands, Indonesian cuisine, hotel costs in IDR, visa requirements, healthcare considerations, and essential travel insurance information for this remarkable archipelago nation.
- What there is to do in Indonesia
- Cultural experiences & natural wonders
- Seasonal attractions & adventure activities
- Quick profiles of major cities
- Hotel cost ranges
- Visa & entry requirements
- Healthcare costs & detailed insurance breakdown
Safety Ratings and Resources
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.
Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do Not travel to:
- The provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest.
Country Summary: Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, or volcanic eruptions may result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.
Demonstrations occur frequently and have the potential to become violent. Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Indonesia.
If you decide to travel to Indonesia:
- Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Visit the websites for Badan Geologi (Indonesian Geological Agency, Indonesian language only) for the latest information from the Government of Indonesia on current natural disasters.
- Review the CDC’s suggestions on how to prepare for natural disasters.
- Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
- Review the Country Security Report for Indonesia.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Central Papua and Highland Papua– Level 4: Do Not Travel
In Central Papua and Highland Papua, violent demonstrations and conflict could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals.
Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua because U.S. government employees working in Indonesia must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Very varied; tourist islands feel safe, but harassment, scams, and weak enforcement of GBV laws exist in rural or conservative regions.
View Women's Travel Safety Guide →Same-sex acts legal nationally but criminalized in Aceh; raids, harassment, and moral policing reported.
View LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Guide →
Indonesia is Southeast Asia's largest and most diverse nation, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands stretching across the equator. From the spiritual temples and beaches of Bali to the ancient wonders of Borobudur, from the prehistoric Komodo dragons to the world-class diving of Raja Ampat, Indonesia offers extraordinary variety. The challenge is the country's vastness – you cannot see everything, and serious distances separate many highlights. Most trips to Indonesia focus on several themes: Balinese culture and temples, beach and island experiences, diving and water sports, volcano and jungle adventures, and authentic village and cultural tourism. Many visitors concentrate on Bali due to its infrastructure, but the more adventurous explore Lombok, the Gili Islands, Flores, Yogyakarta, and eastern Indonesia. Bali stands out as Indonesia's spiritual heart, a Hindu island in an Islamic nation where ancient traditions remain vibrant. The island's temples, ceremonies, and cultural practices fascinate visitors seeking deeper understanding of Indonesian spirituality. Ubud epitomizes the spiritual and agricultural essence of Bali, drawing wellness seekers, artists, and cultural tourists. The iconic rice terraces surrounding Ubud create dreamlike landscapes and remain an enduring symbol of Indonesia. Yogyakarta in central Java is home to two of Indonesia's most spectacular temples, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples represent the height of architectural achievement and spiritual devotion. Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, protects the world's only population of Komodo dragons – massive prehistoric reptiles found nowhere else on Earth. This unique wildlife destination offers adventure, exceptional diving, and otherworldly landscapes. Raja Ampat is widely considered one of the world's best diving destinations, featuring pristine coral reefs, incredible biodiversity, and minimal tourism impact. Located in remote eastern Indonesia, it appeals to serious divers seeking extraordinary underwater experiences. Indonesian food reflects the nation's diversity, with distinct regional styles influenced by local ingredients and cultural traditions. The cuisine is known for bold flavors, spice, and the use of tropical fruits, rice, and seafood. Indonesia's weather is dominated by the monsoon system, creating distinct dry and wet seasons with different implications for different islands. Dry season is peak tourism season, particularly for mountain areas and outdoor activities. Indonesia has a two-tier healthcare system with variable quality between regions. Bali has excellent private hospitals with English-speaking doctors meeting international standards. Medical evacuation from remote diving sites can cost US$50,000-150,000+. Comprehensive travel insurance with robust evacuation coverage and diving-specific coverage is essential.
Major Cities in Japan
Bali
Bali is Indonesia's most developed island and primary tourist destination, known for its stunning temples, beaches, cultural richness, and thriving tourism infrastructure. The island offers everything from spiritual experiences to beach resorts, making it accessible for all types of travelers.
- Ubud – cultural heart with rice terraces, monkey forest, and artisan workshops
- Seminyak – trendy beach town with upscale restaurants, bars, and beach clubs
- Canggu – bohemian beach area with surfing, cafes, and digital nomad culture
- Uluwatu – clifftop temples with dramatic views overlooking the Indian Ocean
- Tanah Lot – iconic temple on rocky outcrop visible from the beach
- Kuta Beach – famous surfing beach and nightlife destination
- Padang Padang Beach – secluded cove popular with surfers and swimmers
Jakarta
Jakarta is Indonesia's capital and largest city, a sprawling megacity of over 10 million people. As the nation's political, economic, and cultural hub, it serves as the gateway for most international visitors and offers museums, shopping, colonial architecture, and modern facilities.
- National Museum – comprehensive collection of Indonesian history and artifacts
- Kota Tua (Old Town) – Dutch colonial architecture and historic sites
- Grand Indonesia and Pacific Place – modern shopping malls
- Museum Nasional – arts and cultural exhibits
- Textile Museum – traditional Indonesian weaving and textiles
- Gateway to Thousand Islands – day trips for island hopping
- Food scene – diverse Indonesian and international cuisine
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is the cultural and spiritual center of Java, home to magnificent temples and deep Javanese traditions. Located in central Java at moderate altitude, it serves as the base for visiting Borobudur and Prambanan temples, making it essential for understanding Indonesian heritage.
- Borobudur Temple – ancient Buddhist temple with 504 Buddhas, UNESCO World Heritage site
- Prambanan Temple – Hindu temple with towering pointed architecture
- Malioboro Street – famous shopping street with shops, restaurants, and street food
- Taman Sari Water Castle – royal palace with beautiful gardens
- Ramayana Ballet performances at the temples
- Batik workshops and traditional textile production
- Gateway to Mount Merapi volcano and local hiking
Lombok
Lombok is a quieter alternative to Bali with pristine beaches, the dramatic Mount Rinjani volcano, and the famous Gili Islands. Less developed than Bali but rapidly growing, it offers excellent diving, snorkeling, and authentic Indonesian culture.
- Gili Islands (Air, Meno, Trawangan) – famous snorkeling and diving destination, no motorized vehicles
- Mount Rinjani – active volcano with challenging trekking options and crater lake
- Pink sand beaches – unique colored sand at several beaches around the island
- Senggigi Beach – developed beach area with hotels and restaurants
- Sasak villages – traditional indigenous community culture
- Waterfalls and freshwater springs throughout the island
- Fewer crowds than Bali, more authentic experience
Komodo
Komodo is home to the famous Komodo dragons, the world's largest living lizards. Located in Flores, Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering unique wildlife encounters, excellent diving, and the rare pink sand beaches.
- Komodo dragons – encounter these prehistoric reptiles in their natural habitat
- Komodo National Park – UNESCO World Heritage site protecting dragons and biodiversity
- Pink sand beaches – rare beaches created by crushed red coral
- Diving – world-class diving with strong currents and abundant marine life
- Rinca Island – alternative Komodo viewing with easier hikes
- Padar Island – dramatic landscapes and photography opportunities
- Gateway to Flores island and other eastern islands
Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is widely recognized as one of the world's premier diving destinations, featuring some of the most pristine coral reefs and marine biodiversity on Earth. Located in remote eastern Indonesia, it's perfect for serious divers seeking adventure and unspoiled underwater landscapes.
- World-class diving – consistently ranked among the world's best
- Coral triangle – center of global marine biodiversity
- Remote island location – pristine waters and minimal tourism impact
- Macro and macro diving – from tiny creatures to large pelagics
- Liveaboard diving – multi-day cruises exploring remote reefs
- Kayaking and island hopping – exploration beyond diving
- Incredibly remote – limited infrastructure but extraordinary experiences
Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, famous for its rice terraces, spiritual atmosphere, yoga culture, and artistic community. Though increasingly tourist-oriented, Ubud maintains authentic Balinese culture and serves as the center for traditional crafts and wellness retreats.
- Tegallalang rice terraces – iconic stepped rice paddies terracing hillsides
- Monkey Forest Sanctuary – sacred forest with wild monkeys
- Art galleries and museums – local artists and traditional Balinese art
- Yoga and wellness retreats – numerous studios and retreat centers
- Traditional markets – batik, woodcarving, and textile shops
- Cafes and restaurants – farm-to-table and healthy cuisine
- Temple ceremonies – experiencing authentic Balinese spirituality
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a dramatic island southeast of Bali known for its steep cliffs, manta ray encounters, and stunning viewpoints. Once difficult to access, it's becoming increasingly popular for day trips and multi-day stays, offering a more rugged Bali experience.
- Kelingking Beach – iconic T-shaped beach with dramatic cliff backdrop
- Manta ray encounters – seasonal visits from giant manta rays (November-April)
- Broken Beach (Pasir Putih) – dramatic cliffs and hidden beach coves
- Angel's Billabong – natural infinity pool on clifftop
- Atuh Beach – secluded sandy beach accessible by stairs
- Crystal Bay Beach – diving and snorkeling with strong currents
- Less developed than Bali – authentic atmosphere and fewer crowds
Hotel Costs in Japan
Budget Accommodations
- Hostel dorm beds: IDR 100,000–250,000 per night (roughly US$6–16)
- Private rooms in hostels/guesthouses: IDR 250,000–500,000 per night (US$16–32)
- Budget hotels: IDR 300,000–600,000 per night (US$19–38)
- Simple hotels with fan rooms: IDR 200,000–400,000 per night (US$13–25)
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Standard hotels in Bali/Jakarta: IDR 600,000–1,500,000 per night (US$38–95)
- Mid-range beachfront hotels: IDR 800,000–2,000,000 per night (US$50–125)
- Boutique hotels and guesthouses: IDR 1,000,000–2,500,000 per night (US$63–160)
- Air-conditioned rooms with pool and breakfast included
Luxury Accommodations
- High-end city hotels in Jakarta/Yogyakarta: IDR 2,000,000–5,000,000 per night (US$125–315)
- Luxury beach resorts in Bali (Seminyak/Canggu): IDR 3,000,000–8,000,000+ per night (US$190–500+)
- Premium oceanfront villas: IDR 5,000,000–15,000,000+ per night (US$315–950+)
- Exclusive island resorts (Gili Islands, Komodo): IDR 4,000,000–12,000,000+ per night (US$250–750+)
Peak season (July-August, December-January) sees significantly higher prices and larger crowds. Book luxury accommodations 3–6 months in advance during peak season. Shoulder seasons (April-June, September-November) offer better value with decent weather. Low season (February-March) has lowest prices but brings heavy rain, especially impacting some regions. Prices vary dramatically between Bali (highest) and eastern islands like Komodo/Raja Ampat (variable but can be expensive for diving resorts). COVID recovery has increased prices significantly from pre-pandemic levels.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Most nationalities receive visa on arrival (VOA) at major Indonesian airports and ports of entry.
- Visa-free entry available for citizens of 90+ countries including US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand.
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity required.
- Proof of onward/return travel may be checked.
- No yellow fever vaccination required, but vaccination recommended for some regions.
- Travel insurance with diving coverage strongly recommended for divers.
Additional visa information
- Most nationalities receive 30-day visa on arrival (VOA) at major airports for IDR 500,000-600,000 (approximately US$30-35).
- Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry for 30 days (US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and 90+ countries).
- Passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining.
- Proof of onward travel may be requested (inconsistently enforced).
- VOA can be extended to 60 days at immigration offices for additional fee.
Healthcare & Medical Information
Healthcare overview
Indonesia has a two-tier healthcare system with variable quality between regions. Bali has excellent private hospitals (BIMC, Sanglah) with English-speaking doctors meeting international standards. Jakarta has major hospitals comparable to developed countries. Yogyakarta and major cities have decent private clinics. Outer islands and remote areas have minimal facilities; serious cases require evacuation to Bali or Jakarta. Diving accidents are a critical health concern - decompression sickness, barotrauma, and nitrogen narcosis can be life-threatening and require hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Medical evacuation from remote diving sites can cost US$50,000-150,000+. Only Bali has hyperbaric facilities; evacuation from eastern islands (Komodo, Raja Ampat) is necessary for diving emergencies. Comprehensive travel insurance with robust evacuation coverage and diving-specific coverage is essential, not optional.
Typical medical costs
- General practitioner visit: IDR 300,000 - 750,000 ($19 - $47 USD)
- Emergency room visit: IDR 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 ($63 - $190 USD)
- Hospital stay: IDR 3,000,000 - 10,000,000 ($190 - $630 USD) per day
- Emergency surgery: IDR 20,000,000 - 100,000,000+ ($1,250 - $6,300+ USD)
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (diving accident treatment): IDR 5,000,000 - 15,000,000 per session ($315 - $945 USD)
- Helicopter evacuation from dive site: highly variable, potentially US$50,000 - 150,000+
- Air ambulance to Bali from outer islands: US$20,000 - 75,000+
Travel Insurance Recommendations
While travel insurance is not always required, it's recommended for international travel to protect against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related issues.
Common travel issues to consider
- Diving accidents including decompression sickness - most critical claim for Indonesia divers.
- Motorbike accidents - common for travelers renting motorcycles/scooters.
- Traveler's diarrhea and gastrointestinal illness from food and water.
- Dengue fever and mosquito-borne illness causing serious complications.
- Theft and pickpocketing in Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, and crowded tourist areas.
- Evacuation from remote islands requiring emergency air transport to major medical facilities.
Recommended providers
Consider comparing policies from multiple providers to find coverage that matches your travel needs.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
112
US Embassy Jakarta
+62 21 5083-1000
Tourist Police
021-5703-0873