DESTINATION GUIDE: INDONESIA

Indonesia

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life and immerse yourself in tropical Island culture, there are few better places to visit than Indonesia. Known for its stunning islands, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, Indonesia welcomes over 15 million tourists to its sandy shores each year, boasting crystal blue water, stunning marine life and luxurious resorts perfect for relaxing and forgetting worldly problems.

Just a few hours’ flight from Australia, Indonesia offers a relaxed and affordable holiday for anyone seeking an escape – read more to learn the best places to visit, top things to do and our top tips for enjoying your next Indonesian holiday.

 

POPULATION: 283.4 million

PRIMARY LANGUAGE: Indonesian

PRIMARY CURRENCY: Rupiah (IDR)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Visit SmartTraveller or speak to your Travel Agent for more specific information.

Climate

Located right on the Equator, Indonesia’s climate is primarily hot and humid, with the year’s weather broken up into clear wet and dry seasons. These seasons fall over the beginning and end of the year – the wet season spans from October to April, and the dry season over May to September. The dry season is typically the best time to visit as the weather is warm, with blue skies and minimal bad weather, although you’re also more likely to encounter higher costs and increased crowds.

Capital Cities

Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of the island of Java and home to 11.35 million people. The largest city in Indonesia across all of the islands, Jakarta is the primary trade and economic hub for the country, with many of the countries larger businesses located here. For tourists, Jakarta also offers plenty to do in the way of shopping, dining and exploring, with dozens of historical buildings to see. Experiencing a distinct wet and dry season, the best time to visit Jakarta is during June to September, when the weather is less humid, and the skies are clear.

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LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Indonesia is a great country to visit, with a welcoming culture and relaxed atmosphere that invites everyone to come and enjoy their time on the island nation. If you’re visiting the nation for the first time, here are a handful of local tips and tricks to make your experience more memorable and enjoyable:

  • Get A Universal Travel Adaptor – Indonesia usually uses power outlets that have a two-pin round plug, so if you’re planning to use electronics while you’re in Indonesia, make sure you get a Universal Travel Adaptor before you go. If you forget you may be able to purchase one while over there, but better to get one in advance!
  • Take Shoes off When Indoors – It’s customary in many Asian countries to take your shoes off when entering a building, and this is no exception when visiting Indonesia. When visiting souvenir shops, homestays or even entering and exiting your hotel room, be mindful of customs and slip your shoes off.
  • Get Travel Insurance – Travel Insurance is always recommended when travelling, but it’s particularly important to get when travelling to countries such as Indonesia. This will help protect you if you end up falling sick while travelling to the region or a victim of petty theft – Your Travel Agent can help organise this for you.
  • Don’t Drink Tap Water – Indonesian locals are wary of drinking the tap water, so we highly recommend purchasing and utilising bottled water when travelling to the region. Some hotels and resorts may have workarounds for this or refill stations, otherwise you can also buy gallon bottles of water to help minimise plastic waste.
  • Be Mindful When Visiting Bars and Clubs – Indonesia is well-known for its drinking and partying culture, but a level of caution is advised when visiting the local bars and clubs. Be mindful of drinks that smell or taste strange, and don’t leave your drink unattended. The best way to avoid difficult situations is to visit more popular venues, or venues within your accommodation.

FAQ’s

When is the best time to visit Indonesia?

The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, between April and October. During this period the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the water is the perfect temperature for snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing. On the downside, this is also high tourist season, and the most expensive time to visit. If you’re wanting to enjoy Indonesia’s sunny weather and crowds don’t bother you, we recommend visiting during high season, otherwise visit in the fridge seasons of March or November and save some money.

Where are the best places to visit in Indonesia?

Indonesia is a treasure trove of diverse destinations, offering everything from stunning beaches to lush jungles. Bali is a top favourite with its beautiful beaches, surf spots, and temples, while the Gili Islands offer a more laid-back tropical escape. For nature lovers, Komodo Island is a must to see the famous Komodo dragons, and a hike up Mount Bromo or Mount Rinjani will reward you with unforgettable volcanic landscapes. If you’re into culture, Yogyakarta is rich with history, home to the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. Our experienced Travel Agents can craft the perfect itinerary for you depending on what you’re after!

What documents do I need to enter Indonesia?

To enter Indonesia, most travellers will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry and a visa. For many nationalities, a Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available, which is valid for 30 days and can be extended once. Some countries are eligible for visa-free entry for short stays, but it’s always a good idea to check with your local Indonesian embassy or consulate for the latest requirements.

Is Indonesia safe to visit?

Yes, Indonesia is generally safe to visit, especially in popular tourist areas like Bali, Yogyakarta, and the Gili Islands. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take basic safety precautions. We recommend checking SmartTraveller for the latest requirements or speaking with your Travel Agent for specific information.

Is English spoken in Indonesia?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Indonesia, especially in tourist areas, major cities, and among younger people. While Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, you’ll find that many locals in hospitality and tourism sectors can communicate in English. However, in more rural areas, English proficiency may vary, so it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia to enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture!

Is Indonesia expensive?

Indonesia can be quite affordable to visit, especially compared to many Western countries. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to luxury resorts, so you can find options to fit any budget. Local food is delicious and inexpensive, particularly at warungs (small local eateries), while transportation costs, like buses and ferries, are generally low. However, popular tourist destinations like Bali can be pricier, especially during peak seasons. If you’re considering visiting the region, we recommend speaking to our Travel Agents who can create the perfect itinerary to suit your budget and requirements.

Get in touch with us to plan your next holiday!