Travel tips to Indonesia 2025

Indonesia is a vast and diverse country, offering everything from stunning beaches and volcanic landscapes to rich cultural experiences. To make your trip enjoyable and safe, consider these travel tips:

​Best Time to Visit

​The dry season, from May to September, is generally the best time to visit Indonesia. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, lower humidity, and calm seas, which are ideal for outdoor activities like beach trips, volcano hikes, and diving. The peak tourist season is in July and August, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months of April, May, and October.

​The rainy season runs from November to March. While it may not rain all day, heavy downpours can occur, particularly in the afternoons. This can make some outdoor activities challenging, but it also means lush green landscapes and lower prices.

​What to Pack

• ​Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. T-shirts, shorts, and skirts are fine for tourist areas, but it's important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should bring a scarf or shawl to cover their shoulders, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their knees. A sarong is a versatile item to pack, as it can be used for visiting temples or as a beach blanket.

• ​Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for exploring cities and natural trails. Flip-flops or sandals are essential for the beach and for places where you'll need to remove your shoes frequently.

• ​Essentials: Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially if you're traveling during the rainy season. Mosquito repellent is highly recommended, as mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever are a risk.

• ​Health and Safety: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essential medications like anti-diarrhea tablets and pain relievers. You should also consider travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or theft.

​Visa and Entry Requirements

• ​Passport: Your passport must have an expiration date at least six months after your date of arrival and have at least two blank pages. Authorities are strict about damaged passports, and entry can be refused if your passport is not in good condition.

• ​Visa: Most visitors can get a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VOA) for tourism or business purposes. You can also apply for an e-VOA online before you travel. Check the official Indonesian immigration website for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements for your specific nationality.

​Cultural Tips

• ​Respect Local Customs: Indonesia is a diverse country with many different cultures and religions. Be respectful of local traditions and customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.

• ​Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and street stalls. It's a good practice to negotiate prices respectfully.

• ​Greetings: A simple "Terima kasih" (thank you) and "Halo" (hello) in Bahasa Indonesia can go a long way.

​Safety and Security

• ​General Safety: Indonesia is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur.

• ​Traffic: Traffic can be chaotic. Be extremely cautious when crossing roads. If you plan to rent a scooter, ensure you are an experienced rider and always wear a helmet.

• ​Terrorism: There is a threat of terrorism in Indonesia, though the authorities have effective counterterrorism measures in place. Stay informed about local security updates and be aware of your surroundings.

• ​Volcanoes and Natural Disasters: Indonesia is in a seismically active region with many volcanoes. Be sure to check the activity status of any volcanoes you plan to visit and follow the advice of local authorities.

​By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a memorable and safe experience exploring the beauty and culture of Indonesia.