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Indonesia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, indonesia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

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.

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.

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. 

Indonesia’s revised criminal code, which takes effect January 2026, includes penalties for defamation, blasphemy, cohabitation, and sex outside of marriage. It is unclear how Indonesian authorities will implement the revised criminal code.

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 intended stay.
• Follow the Department of State Facebook  and Twitter .  Follow the U.S. Embassy Jakarta on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .
• 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.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.

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Is It Safe in Bali?

Bali—the Southeast Asian yoga oasis of "Eat, Pray, Love" fame—attracts more than 6 million international visitors per year. It's a haven for young, solo travelers on gap years and life-affirming sabbaticals, which proves how generally safe the Indonesian island is. That isn't to say, however, that Bali is entirely incident-free. Like any tourist-centric destination, it's also a magnet for pickpocketing and thievery. What's more, Balinese roads are notoriously dangerous in that they're chaotic and often times not well maintained. Being located in the Ring of Fire (an earthquake-prone fault line in the basin of the Pacific Ocean), the island is especially vulnerable to tsunamis as well.

Travel Advisories

The U.S. Department of State has issued travel warnings for Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters  . "Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants," the warning states. "Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis or volcano eruptions may result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health   services."

Is Bali Dangerous?

Although Bali is safe enough to visit for a short trip, earthquakes and tsunamis are a major concern. In 2018, Indonesia as a whole suffered from 2,000 natural disasters, claiming nearly 4,000 lives, displacing 3 million people, and leaving much of the country in a state of devastation. Because tourism accounts for more than a quarter of Bali's gross domestic product, your vacation may help boost the economy, but be aware of the risk of natural disasters and the damage they've already caused.

Additional risks to travelers include targeted crime like robberies and pickpocketing. Terrorism is a problem throughout the country, but the U.S. Department of State does not cite Bali as an epicenter of it. The roads are notably dangerous in that a quarter of Bali's reported crashes prove deadly, and to make matters worse, renting scooters has become a popular tourist activity with not much training or precaution involved. Foreigners are injured in traffic accidents in Bali (whether as pedestrians, passengers, or drivers themselves) all the time.

Is Bali Safe for Solo Travelers?

Bali is not only safe for solo travelers, it's somewhat of a mecca for lone vagabonds. With so many young backpackers holidaying on the island, there's a sort of safety in numbers. Whereas some other Southeast Asian countries—notably Thailand and Vietnam—have earned unfavorable reputations for their rambunctious backpacker party cultures, Bali (being a Hindu island) revolves less around drugs and alcohol, which helps keep the crime at bay. Remember to keep your possessions close to your person when you're out and lock up your belongings at the hotel or hostel to avoid theft, which can just as easily be perpetrated by fellow travelers.

Is Bali Safe for Female Travelers?

The "Eat, Pray, Love" narrative has boosted female travel (female solo travel, in particular) immensely, making Bali one of the top destinations for itinerant women. In general, Balinese people are perfectly friendly, hospitable, and apt to look after visitors, but sexual harassment is also prevalent. One group of men, dubbed the "Kuta cowboys" after Kuta Beach, is notorious for preying on women. They often hold tourist-facing beach jobs, but what they're actually attempting to sell is sex.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

A high-profile UK rape case involving Indonesian exchange student Reynhard Sinaga, who was convicted in 2020 of drugging and raping more than 100 men in Manchester, sparked a series of LGBTQ+ raids throughout the country  . The incident provoked homophobic attacks against the LGBTQ+ community, but it was particularly centered in Sinaga's home city of Jambi. Bali remains a major destination for LGBTQ+ travelers , thanks to its love-touting Hindu heritage and its diverse demographic, both different from the rest of the country. If you're worried about your safety as a queer traveler or couple, stick to the tourist-friendly areas of Bali where it's more widely accepted. Bali's gay organization, promoting sexual health in the LGBTQ+ community, is Gaya Dewata .

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Indonesia is not immune to racism, but it's mostly directed at Papuans, who have had a tense relationship with Indonesians since the takeover of West Papua in the 1960s. Otherwise, people of color are generally safe in the country, especially in the cultural melting pot that is Bali. If you fall victim to an act of discrimination during your visit, you should report it to the tourist police, who are stationed at Jl. Kartika Plaza No.170 in Kuta.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Bali is a safe place to visit, but be sure not to abandon your common sense. Travel in groups and take the necessary precautions to avoid danger.

• Macaque monkeys are commonplace around Bali, but don't be fooled by their cute appearance as they will not scruple from stealing shiny objects and food from unsuspecting tourists. Many a tourist have lost glasses, jewelry, and other belongings to these shifty beasts. Most close encounters with macaques happen around Pura Luhur Uluwatu and the Ubud Monkey Forest in Central Bali. You would also be wise not to smile at them as they interpret bared teeth as a sign of aggression. 
• The beaches on the southwest part of Bali are known to have dangerous rip tides and undertows. Dangerous beaches are marked by red flags. Do not attempt to swim at red-flagged beaches.
• Ask your hotel about tsunami evacuation procedures; otherwise, find accommodations at least 150 feet above sea level and two miles inland.
• Despite the draconian anti-drug laws, tourists often get stealthy drug offers while walking on the streets, with disguised drug dealers slyly whispering offers of cheap marijuana or mushrooms to likely-looking travelers. If this happens to you, walk away. You're likely to find yourself entrapped in a drug sting.
• Apply high-SPF sunscreen to forestall the agony of UV-burned skin; SPF (sun protection factor) of no lower than 40 ought to be adequate for a Bali vacation.
• There are no traffic rules in Bali, only suggestions. Thus, crosswalks (when you can find them) don't get much respect, nor do the pedestrians treading on them.

U.S. Department of State . "Indonesia Travel Advisory."

Reuters . "Indonesia rights body condemns LGBT raids ordered by mayor after UK rape case." January 14, 2020.

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Bali dream vacations on hold for Americans as island reopens to international travel

DENPASAR, Indonesia — The Indonesian resort island of Bali reopened for international travelers to visit its shops and white-sand beaches for the first time in more than a year Thursday — if they're vaccinated, test negative, hail from certain countries besides the U.S., quarantine and heed restrictions in public.

However, foreign visitors may be slow to arrive. No international flights to Bali were scheduled on the first day of the reopening and a tourism official forecast travel would pick up in November.

Bali’s airport will welcome new foreign arrivals from 19 countries that meet World Health Organization’s criteria such as having their COVID-19 cases under control, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, the government minister who leads the COVID-19 response in Java and Bali, said in a statement late Wednesday.

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Those countries are Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Italy, France, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Poland, Hungary and Norway.

Pandjaitan said all international flight passengers must have proof they’ve been vaccinated two times, test negative for the coronavirus upon arrival in Bali and undergo a 5-day quarantine at designated hotels at their own expense. They'll also have to follow stringent rules at hotels, in restaurants and on beaches.

“We have to do this with caution because we need to stay alert,” Pandjaitan said.

President Joko Widodo credited Bali’s high vaccination rate for the decision to reopen. The country’s COVID-19 caseload has also declined considerably; Indonesia has had around 1,000 cases a day in the past week after peaking around 56,000 daily in July. The country has confirmed more than 4.2 million cases and 142,811 deaths from COVID-19, the most in Southeast Asia, over the course of the pandemic.

Tourism is the main source of income on the idyllic “island of the gods” that is home to more than 4 million people, who are mainly Hindu in the mostly Muslim archipelago nation. Bali's tourist areas were deserted two decades ago after visitors were scared off by deadly terror attacks that targeted foreigners, but the island has worked to overcome that image.

More than 6 million foreigners arrived in Bali each year prior to the pandemic.

Foreign tourist arrivals dropped six-fold from 6.2 million in 2019 to only 1 million in 2020, while 92,000 people employed in tourism lost their jobs and the average room occupancy rate of classified hotels in Bali was below 20%. Statistics Indonesia data showed the island’s economy contracted 9.31% year-on-year last year.

After closing the island to all visitors early in the pandemic, Bali reopened to Indonesians from other parts of the country in the middle of last year. That helped the island’s gross domestic product grow a modest 2.83% in the second quarter this year, ending five consecutive quarters of contraction.

The July surge, fueled by the delta variant, again totally emptied the island's normally bustling beaches and streets. Authorities restricted public activities, closed the airport and shuttered all shops, bars, sit-down restaurants, tourist attraction spots and many other places on the island. It reopened to domestic travelers in August.

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Sang Putu Wibawa, the general manager at Bali’s Tandjung Sari Hotel, said only two of its 40 rooms were occupied on average and he hoped the reopening would help the occupancy rate back to normal.

“We have been waiting for this moment for so long,” he said. “This outbreak has hammered the local economy ... we are very excited to welcome foreign guests by observing health protocols.”

Widodo said deciding to reopen Bali was based on its high vaccination rate as well as wanting to revive its economy. He said more than 80% of the Bali population has been fully vaccinated.

“Based on this situation, I am optimistic and we have decided to reopen international flights to Bali,” Widodo wrote in his official Instagram on Saturday.

The tight timing is one reason tourists were not immediately arriving, said Putu Astawa, head of the Bali Tourism Office

Airlines need time to schedule flights to Bali, while tourists need time to arrange travel documents such as tickets, insurance and virus tests as well as their five-day quarantine accommodations.

He predicted new visitors would start coming in early November.

13 things to know before going to Bali, Indonesia

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips for visiting Bali can help you plan the perfect trip Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-soaked paradise that attracts every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury jet-setters.

But – as with any destination – the vast majority of travelers (especially first-timers) will have a number of questions, whether it's "Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali?" (an increasingly common one in the light of recently-introduced new rules for tourists in Bali, which we'll get to later) or "What should I wear?"

Thankfully, Bali is one of the easiest destinations to explore, although its size – the island covers 5776 sq km (2230 sq miles) – means travelers should take the time to think about what they want to see and do relatively early on. For example, places such as Seminyak , with its beach clubs and five-star hotels, tend to become somewhat crowded during peak season, while more rural destinations, such as Ubud , might well require a longer taxi journey but are absolutely worth the effort, especially for those keen to avoid the crowds.

It's also worth bearing in mind that Bali is one of Asia's safest destinations. As with any holiday hot spot, there are always going to be certain things we can do to ensure we stay safe while traveling, but crackdowns on petty theft and bad behavior have all helped transform the island into a wonderfully family-friendly destination .

Here are our top tips for anyone heading to Bali.

1. Check your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Indonesia

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to Bali (barring the need for travelers arriving from countries with a high yellow fever transmission risk to carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate), although Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are often recommended. Bali falls into the "low to no risk" category when it comes to malaria.

Rabies remains a big problem in Indonesia, and although it claims fewer lives in Bali than elsewhere (according to the World Health Organization, 11 people died from rabies in the first half of 2023), it still exists, and the rabies vaccination is worth considering. Working out what vaccinations you need for a holiday to Bali is mostly a personal choice, but if you have concerns, contact your local physician for the latest guidance.

2. Bring a reusable bottle

One of the most asked questions by tourists: "Is Bali's tap water safe to drink?" The short answer is "no." Stick to bottled water or, better still, bring a bottle with a built-in water filtering membrane. Purchasing bottled water – especially in restaurants – can quickly become expensive, which is another reason we're fans of reusable filtered ones, such as Larq and Lifestraw. These are also handy when it comes to purifying water used for cleaning fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try to steer clear of ice and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

3. Don't write off the rainy season

Having a rough idea of when dry and rainy seasons fall is undoubtedly something that is useful to know before heading to Indonesia . But bear with us – Bali's rainy season, which takes place between October and April, is a great time to visit. It's typified by short, sharp showers that often only last a few minutes. And in addition to the fact that prices for everything – from regional airfares to hotels – plummet, the island becomes wonderfully lush, the weather is still warm (typically hovering between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and the main tourist attractions are blissfully crowd-free. You'll also find it easier to snap up places on excursions, such as snorkeling tours and guided hikes .

4. Buy some bug spray

To be clear, Bali doesn't have a major mosquito problem, but like anywhere in Southeast Asia, these pesky biting bugs love the occasional bloodsucking session – in the case of Bali, particularly during the rainy season between November and April. Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can).

5. Avoid traveling during peak times

Traffic in Bali can be horrendous – especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta – and estimated journey times on apps like Google Maps or Grab are notoriously unreliable. Peak times tend to be 6am to 8am (but roads often remain busy until 10am when day-trippers head out) and 4pm to 7pm. Allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Pack clothes that will cover you up for when you're not on the beach

In Bali, skimpy swimwear is fine for the beach , but definitely not for trips to a supermarket or restaurant.

Men and women need to ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites, although most of these places will have sarongs for visitors to borrow. Pack like a pro by taking a light cotton scarf that can double as a sarong if you visit a temple or other religious site, and a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they've got a built-in mosquito repellent), which will protect you from bites while also providing enough coverage at sites where tiny denim shorts or a vest just won't cut it.

7. Behave respectfully

Various media reports might give the impression it's easy to get into trouble in Bali, but it's not. In reality, you just need to be sensible: don't do drugs (being caught with under a gram of cannabis will land you in prison), be respectful and dress appropriately at religious sites, don't ride a motorbike or moped without a helmet (Bali's police have recently started cracking down especially hard on foreign moped drivers), and treat locals with respect.

8. Locals will be keen to share their knowledge with you

Staying at a hotel with a concierge or a friendly receptionist? Feel free to grill them about the best local bar, beach or restaurant. The Balinese are incredibly proud of their island  – don't be surprised if the bartender at your favorite beach bar ends up inviting you to their home for dinner with their family – and love nothing more than telling visitors about their favorite beach, nature walk or temple.

9. Eat, drink, stay and shop locally

Don't be afraid to go local, whether this means eating at tiny family-run restaurants or opting for local drink brands. You'll pay less and enjoy delicious local dishes, and you'll be contributing directly to the local economy, too. These days, even the smallest restaurants, bars and independent hotels will be listed on online review sites such as Zomato (especially popular in Asia), and a quick glance should tell you whether the business in question is reputable or not.

10. Carry some loose change

Many businesses in Bali will take payment by card, but there are still plenty of places that only take cash. These include temples, smaller souvenir shops and beachfront masseuses (which, by the way, offer some of the best massages going). ATMs on the island can be unreliable and are also few and far between in some areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll always have the mobile data you'll need to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi from the side of the road, it's highly likely you'll need to pay in cash.

When using ATMs, opt for ones connected with major banks (in Indonesia, these include BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA and CIMB Niaga) to avoid withdrawal fees and remember that Indonesian ATMs issue the cash first, so don't forget to wait for your card to appear.

11. Get around by moped (but always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the cheapest way to get around Bali  and often – especially during rush hour in places such as Kuta – the quickest, too. They're also offered as a mode of transport by Grab and Gojek (Bali's most popular ride-sharing apps), and prices for journeys via mopeds are significantly cheaper than those made by car. Just remember to check the reviews of your chosen driver and always wear a helmet (the driver will typically provide one). Avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street – you won't be able to check their credentials, and, in reality, Grab and Gojek have so many scooter drivers (both identifiable for their bright green jackets) that there's simply no need.

12. There is a no-sex-before-marriage law

In December 2022, the Indonesian government brought in a new law that forbids sex outside of marriage. Technically, this law applies to visitors as well as locals.

At the time, it was announced that the legislation won't be introduced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has said that the law – dubbed by some newspapers as the "Bali bonk ban"– won't apply to tourists and, additionally, guilty parties can only be reported by spouses, parents or children. In summary, the law represents a worrying development for human rights in Indonesia, but it's not one that is likely to affect tourists.

13. Prepare to pay a daily tourist tax

As tourism has roared back after the pandemic, authorities have responded to environmental challenges (especially plastic waste on beaches) and overtourism concerns by finally launching a long-mooted fee for foreign visitors as of February 2024. The fee of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah per visitor (about US$10, €9 or AU$15) is payable upon arrival on the island.

This article was first published May 30, 2019 and updated Jan 18, 2024.

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Is Bali Safe to Visit in 2024? READ Before You Go

Updated on: February 16, 2024

Beautiful villas, green rice terraces, towering waterfalls, white sand beaches, and epic sunsets. There is a reason why  Bali is  Indonesia’s most famous island . But are there any ugly elements of life in Bali? Before visiting anywhere, you should research the safety of your destination. There are ways to ensure your Bali vacation is as smooth as possible. In this safety guide, I explain all you need to know about staying safe when you visit the island of the gods.

Is Bali Safe to Visit?

Short answer – Yes. Bali is generally a safe place to visit. Actually, it’s one of the safest parts of Indonesia and Southeast Asia.

Bali, Indonesia , is an island attracting over six million Americans and tourists of all nationalities every year and they do sometimes experience petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams. Rates have increased since the pandemic decimated the tourism industry, but more violent incidents are really rare.

Crime tends to occur more in tourist areas. But, the risk is low in comparison to other areas across South East Asia.

Crime in Bali

The most common crimes people encounter are:

• Pickpocketing
• Bag snatching
• Sexual assault
• Drink spiking

What Should I Be Careful About When Visiting Bali?

You might be shocked to know that the highest risk to tourists in Bali is natural disasters! These threats include tsunamis, earthquakes, flash floods, volcanic eruptions, and rough seas. Bali’s Mount Agung  volcano erupts regularly , forcing residents to evacuate.

Pack away your bag under the seat on your bike, don’t hold your phone ready to be grabbed, and avoid wandering the streets at night – easy to do, and keeps you safe.

Safe Places to Stay in Bali

Bali is a pretty safe island, there are few spots where you can rest easy that are well-known for offering that extra secure comfort.

Uluwatu – Uluwatu, located in the South of Bali is known to be the surfer capital and generally very laid-back. There are a lot of great hotels, restaurants and cafes. The beaches are white and the water is clear. The weather in Uluwatu is rather hot and does not attract as many tourists and digital nomads as other well known spots in Bali. Thus, there are fewer petty criminals and pickpockets. That being said, you should still keep an eye on your belongings.

Sanur – Sanur has the reputation to be the family area in Bali. The atmosphere there is very laid-back, the beach is white, the sea is calm so it doesn’t pose too many dangers and locals are amazingly king. Streets are safe and you can expect to enjoy riding a bicycle without worrying about crazy traffic. Sanur is definitely one of, if not THE, safest area in Bali.

Ubud – Ubud, located in Central Bali is known to be the yoga heart of the island. It’s not near the beach, but when you stay in Ubud you get amazing jungle vibes . Ubud is beautiful, quiet, and peaceful. It is the best spot for people who want to practice some yoga and explore their spirituality. Ubud also offers some of the best cafes in Bali and coffee enthusiasts will also find some tasty brews to drink. There are no nightclubs or parties in Ubud and the only thing you’ll have to worry about is the naughty monkeys that might steal your belongings.

Places To Be More Aware Of or Avoid in Bali

Batu Bolong – Batu Bolong is one of Canggu’s busiest areas which means petty crime occurs quite often. Don’t leave any valuables unattended if you visit this part of Bali. Make sure not to leave anything valuable in your bike, and consider taking your helmet into the bar/restaurant with you.

Oberoi Street – Oberoi Street in Seminyak is home to many nightclubs and a popular location for tourists who want a feel of Bali’s nightlife. This brings a higher risk of drunk drivers, or drunk tourists walking in the street. Be careful after dark, and especially during the weekend. If you can, get a GO-JEK or Grab home. If you are driving, make sure you are very alert and careful.

Sunset Road – Sunset Road, known locally as Jalan Sunset, is the main road in Bali that starts in Seminyak and leads all the way down to the airport. Bali has lax traffic laws, so this street can be very tricky and dangerous for inexperienced drivers. Remain alert and prepared for anything if you’re taking a trip along Sunset Road.

Bumbak and Umalas – Umalas is famous for its eateries, bars, and cafes. However, since the 2020 pandemic, the area became the hotspots for pickpocketing and thieves. Make sure your belongings are out of sight, and perhaps avoid these places altogether after sunset. Simple precautions will keep you safe.

How Safe Is Transportation in Bali?

Exploring Bali can be a little overwhelming when you first arrive. It is a relatively small island, but the erratic transport system often makes getting around harder than it should be. 

Here are a few great ways to get around:

Bali has two main types of buses: public buses and tourist minibusses. Public buses are few in Bali and only operate on a few island routes in the city center, while tourist minibusses connect the most popular routes. You can book tourist minibus rides through your hotel.

Taxis are a cheap and efficient way to move around and see Bali, but they can be tricky. Drivers like to scam unsuspecting tourists by switching off their meters and taking unnecessarily long detours. 

You can ensure you don’t fall victim to dishonest drivers by booking a known taxi company through the Grab or Gojeck apps. It also helps to have small changes when you take a taxi, as drivers can easily claim to have no change, meaning you will lose some money. 

Car/Motorcycle

Scooters are the most popular mode of transport in Bali. They offer a convenient way to get around the narrow roads and navigate hectic traffic. Grab and Gojek offer motorbikes as a vehicle option. 

Is Bali Safe for Female Solo Travelers?

Many backpackers head to Bali on their first big adventure and the simple reason is that so many others are doing the same!

With friendly locals, great hostels, and like-minded travelers, Bali is a safe place for female solo travelers. There’s no reason not to explore at night or go off the beaten track, just don’t throw all caution to the wind.

Use your common sense and trust your instincts when visiting a location. If something feels off, find an excuse to leave the scene immediately. Women are easier targets for bag snatchers, so keep your bag close when walking or use one with a cross strap.

Also, avoid walking alone at night, especially on quiet streets and dark alleyways. Go with a friend or your group if you must venture out at night.

Bali is one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations, and with some caution and commonsense, solo female travelers will have no problems enjoying their trip. 

Is Bali Safe for Kids?

Yes! Bali is very safe for families! Local people absolutely LOVE children and family travel is easy in Bali. You’ll be able to participate in some  amazing, wholesome family activities , and create amazing memories.

However there are some things you need to pay attention to when traveling with children:

• If you go to the beach, make sure to keep a watch on them at all times, the sea can be dangerous.
• Be aware of sun safety. Your kids will surely be affected by the heat. Make sure to keep them covered with suncream, wearing a sun hat, in the shade intermittently and drinking water to stay hydrated.
• Protect them against mosquitoes with repellent especially in the evening.
• Be careful of wild animals! The monkeys and stray dogs might seem friendly but both can be aggressive and potentially very dangerous.

5 Safety Tips for Your Trip to Bali

• Pay attention to the news : Bali is prone to unpredictable natural disasters, so keep up with media reports before and during your stay. Know disaster drills, like what to do in an earthquake or volcanic eruption.
• Keep an eye on your belongings : Especially in tourist areas. This is where most pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs. Ensure your items are beyond their reach. 
• Stay away from drugs : It’s advisable to have absolutely nothing to do with drugs in Bali. The police conduct raids and stings on bars and clubs frequented by tourists. Getting caught with these can be SERIOUS. Trafficking carries with it the  death penalty.
• Only swim in safe areas : Don’t swim in rough seas or where there are red flags. The tides and currents in Bali can be really strong.
• Be careful around cliffs : people fall over these when  visiting places like Nusa Penida and Uluwatu , and more often than you’d think. Be extra cautious when driving or posing for pictures around Bali’s cliffs.

So Is Bali Safe to Visit?

Yes, Bali is pretty safe to visit for all kind of travelers. People are welcoming, friendly and helpful. Of course, there’s always going to be  something to watch out for , and that goes for certain areas of Bali more than others.  But in the end, Bali remains one of Southeast Asia’s most friendly and most visited tourist destinations.

Most Balinese speak at some English . English is the common “third” language (after Indonesian and Balinese) and the most popular foreign language by far. A lot of Balinese speak a level of English that allows them to communicate with tourists on a basic level.

Uluwatu, Sanur, and Ubud  are the safest places to stay in Bali. The more touristy Bali towns like Kuta, Seminyak & Canggu are less safe mainly because of petty crimes and theft.

Yes, it is safe to walk around most places in Bali at night . You’ll be alright if you can avoid drunken tourists and stay away from notorious neighborhoods after dark. 

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Latest Travel Regulations to Enter Bali as of 10 November 2022

Get to Know the Newest Updates on Bali Reopening

The Indonesian government has eased up Bali's travel restrictions for domestic and foreign travelers. Now, you can enjoy quarantine-free holiday with visa on arrival! Prepare yourself with the latest information before you travel to Bali. 

To ensure you have the safest and the most comfortable trip, the Island of Gods prepares for your arrival by maintaining the island's status as the place with the highest vaccination rate and providing Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability (CHSE) certifications for your convenience. Whether it will be your return or first-time visit, always remember to travel responsibly while having a great holiday. 

Get ready to be reunited with the wonders of Bali as the island is open for tourism again! Now, #ItstimeforBali!

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Is Bali Safe?

Compared to many places in the world, Bali is fairly safe. However, the things that require your attention to ensure daily safety are different than what you would need to worry about at home. Pay attention, and exercise common sense and caution to easily have a safe and enjoyable time in Bali.

There is crime in Bali, but most of the crime is non-violent and tends to be theft of belongings or scams (such as ATM skimming). While there are occasional violent crimes, often these are sensationalized by the media.

Take care of your belongings, lock up valuables, and maintain a low profile as a tourist. Be aware of possible pickpocketing, and use ATMs at a bank with security. The Kuta and Legian areas have the highest crime rates, while Ubud is one of the safest locations.

Roadway safety is a big issue. Be very careful driving or even crossing the street. Use local taxis wherever possible. And of course, don’t drink and drive.

Bali also has a small but mentionable risk of natural disasters from volcanoes and earthquakes. We recommend you sign up for travel advisories from your country of origin before departing for Bali.

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Is it safe to travel to Indonesia following the Mount Marapi eruption? Latest travel advice for Bali and more

Here is everything you need to know about travelling to Indonesia right now

Indonesia’s Mount Marapi erupted on Sunday, December 3, ejecting an ash cloud which reached 3 km into the sky, blocking out sunlight and causing debris to cover nearby villages.

Marapi’s slopes are home to around 1,400 people, with the nearest villages being around 5 km from the peak. 

The death toll is estimated to be 22, but  search and rescue teams are still hunting for those who are missing.  50 people were evacuated from the mountainside when the eruption began, and eight of them were taken to hospital for serious injuries and burns. Here's all the latest information about travelling to Indonesia  after the eruption. 

Where is Mount Marapi? 

Mount Marapi is the most active volcano on Sumatra Island, Indonesia – its name literally translates to ‘mountain of fire’. The Indonesian archipelago sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is a region along multiple tectonic fault lines with high seismic activity, and some of the world’s most active volcanoes. 

Indonesia has 127 volcanoes, and the largest global population who live near one, at 8.6 million people. 

When did the volcano erupt? 

Sunday, December 3. The eruption was sudden, and though Marapi is one of the most active in the archipelago, activity is difficult to predict. We do know that the centre of pressure from where the eruption originated sits close to the ground’s surface. 

Deep volcanic earthquakes were recorded only three times between November 16 and December 3 when the eruption happened. The head of the Centre of Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation, Heanra Gunawan, told the Associated Press that the eruption was not caused by a movement of magma.

Is it safe to travel to Indonesia? 

The UK Foreign Office has only advised against two specific areas, so travelling to Indonesia is still generally safe. There is still a risk of terror attacks, particularly in crowded areas, which is heightened during festive periods. Women are generally safe but are encouraged to exercise caution, particularly in Bali and Jakarta . LGBTQ travellers should be cautious as though not illegal across most of Indonesia, homosexuality is considered a taboo topic. 

What about Bali?

Bali  is Indonesia’s most popular island –  in the year preceding September 2023, it welcomed 4.8 international visitors. Thankfully, travel to the island remains unaffected as it sits 2,500 km away from Sumatra. 

What areas have been affected by the Mount Marapi eruption? 

The peak is located in western Sumatra. The nearby city of Bukittinggi, home to over 100,000 people, has been affected by ash alongside smaller villages in the region. Residents are being advised to wear sunglasses and masks to protect themselves against the ash. 

Sumatra is around 435 kilometres from Singapore , but flights there remain unaffected so far. 

What has the UK Foreign Office said? 

The   UK Foreign Office   has not updated its Indonesia travel advice as of Sunday’s eruption. They specifically advise against travel to within three miles of both Mount Sinabung and Mount Semeru, and explain that you should research your destination thoroughly and get the appropriate travel insurance. 

When was the last major eruption of Mount Marapi?

Mount Marapi has been erupting every two to four years since 2004, but the largest and most deadly eruption was in April 1979, which killed nearly 60 people. 

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Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).  

Areas where FCDO advises against all travel

Mount sinabung, north sumatra.

FCDO advises against all travel to within 5km of the Mount Sinabung crater in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Marapi, West Sumatra

FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the crater of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Semeru, East Java

FCDO  advises against all travel to:

• within 5 km of the crater of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java
• the south-east area of Mount Semeru along the Besuk Kobokan river, approximately 13km from the crater, and 500m from any Besuk Kobokan riverbank

These are exclusion zones put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Ruang, Northern Sulawesi

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ruang in Northern Sulawesi. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Ruang erupted on 16 April 2024.

Mount Ibu, North Maluku

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ibu in North Maluku Province. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Ibu erupted on 6 June 2024.

See more details about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:  

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

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Is it Safe to Travel to Bali? [March 2021 Update]

Are you wondering if it’s safe to travel to Bali right now? Is the worst over for coronavirus? Are precautions being taken? Read this post for the latest info.

Coronavirus Update March 24, 2021

Should you visit bali in 2021, how to stay healthy while travelling to bali, routine hazards in bali, diseases in bali, volcanoes & earthquakes, heed the travel advisories, don’t forget travel insurance.

Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is starting to roll out across the world, it’s natural to start thinking about travelling again. Who isn’t sick of the sight of their own four walls and the neighborhood they live in by now?

And you’re wondering if it’s safe to travel to Bali, or if it will be safe in the coming months, right?

We lived in Bali for 8 months last year as the pandemic swept across the world and finally left in September when it became clear that nothing was going back to normal any time soon.

We are updating this post frequently so we can help you decide if you should be thinking about travelling to Bali in 2021.

In addition, you’ll find lots of info about all the “normal” dangers of visiting Bali below.

So keep reading to find out…

Is it Safe to Travel to Bali?

Currently, admission into Indonesia is very limited and only foreigners with specific visas are allowed to come. There are official restrictions on movement, store openings etc, in place in certain areas, called “red zones”. The vaccination program has begun and vaccines are being administered to people in high-risk occupations first. The general population should start receiving vaccines next month.

The latest news on reopening to general tourists says that Bali will most likely open to vaccinated travellers first. There are plans to designation “safe” green zones that have very low infection rates for tourists. When this will all take place is still a little unclear but current best guesses are for some time this summer.

However, be aware that things change frequently in Bali with regards to tourism, so check the latest restrictions before making any plans.

So should you plan a trip to Bali for later this year?

The latest news from Indonesia and Bali is that borders may open to vaccinated tourists in late summer 2021.

So if you want to start planning a vacation to Bali, you might want to target fall or winter for your trip. By then, you should probably have gotten a vaccine and much of the Balinese population will also be vaccinated. People working in travel and tourism will be given priority for vaccines, so those who you interact with will likely be inoculated.

The great thing about planning a trip now, instead of waiting until later in the year, is that airlines and hotels are offering great deals and very generous refund policies, so your trip will be more affordable than usual.

Travel Advice for Bali Don’t miss our complete guide to travel in Bali which will help you with every step of your trip planning.

Safety First!

We don’t leave home without travel insurance and neither should you. World Nomads is ideal for short-term travel — affordable, great coverage, and responsive. For long-term travel, check out Safety Wing .

Get Insured!

How to stay healthy on the plane

If you do decide to travel, there are a few things you can do to decrease your chance of getting sick when you travel, either from coronavirus or other viruses and bacterias that get passed from person to person.

• Wash your hands. A lot. Make sure you wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer for those moments when good old fashioned soap and water aren’t available
• Wear a mask. Masks help protect you from contracting and spreading viruses. Plus, when I wear a mask, it reminds me not to touch my face, keeping whatever icky things my hands might pick up away from my eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Be a little obsessive. If you want, you can wear gloves and use sanitizer to wipe down your seat, tray table, and entertainment system thoroughly as soon as you board. When we flew from Bali back to Canada in September, two people on our plane were wearing full-on haz-mat suits. That may be pushing things a little too far!

Watch Naomi Campbell’s guide on how to keep healthy on the plane to see how the stars do it!

How to stay healthy in Bali

One of the great things about Bali is that most restaurants and public gathering places are open-air. That leaves you less chance of being in an enclosed space with someone who is ill.

To keep your risks to a minimum, wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. Also avoid sitting in crowded restaurants or hanging out in crowds.

And if you do happen to sit down next to someone who is coughing or seems sick, go sit somewhere else. Even if they only have the common cold, you still don’t want to catch it and ruin your trip.

Finally, make sure you stay hydrated, rested, and healthy.

It’s easy to get lots of vitamins in the form of fresh smoothies and juices in Bali. Make sure you’re getting lots of sleep each night and exercising each day.

If you’re planning on practicing yoga, you should bring your own travel yoga mat . Studios are getting better at disinfecting between students but you’ll be best off with your own equipment.

Want the best food in Bali? Don’t miss our posts about the best vegan food in Ubud and Canggu !

Snatch Theft

Theft is not a huge problem in Bali, but it does occur, especially in the busiest tourist areas, like Ubud and Kuta.

The most common thefts in Bali are drive-by snatch thefts done by men on motorbikes. Motorbike thieves target pedestrians and tourist on motorbikes.

Safety tips

The key is to avoid becoming an easy target for snatch thieves. Don’t hold your phone loosely in one hand while you’re walking around and avoid holding your camera out in one hand while you’re driving in busy areas.

If I have to check my map on my phone while I’m walking around in busy areas, I usually step into a shop doorway or at the very least, stay away from the roadside.

Keep your valuables in clothing with zipper pockets or in a hotel safe.

If you carry a bag or a purse, don’t dangle it off your shoulder or arm. A secure travel purse is great investment because you can totally use it at home and be safe there too.

If you don’t look like a target, chances are the thieves will pass you by.

Need help packing? Our essential packing guides make packing super-simple. Here’s one for women and one for men .

The most common pitfall for tourists in Bali is the traffic.

Driving a scooter in Bali is going to be, by far, the most dangerous thing you do. Traffic is crazy on many parts of the island (no, it’s not the serene paradise you’ve seen on Instagram) and drivers are often unlicensed and always unpredictable.

If you’re not totally secure driving a scooter, Bali is not the place to learn. Not long after riding our bicycles onto Bali, after 20 months cycling around the world, we got into a very close call. We never felt safe on the roads there.

Don’t drive a scooter in Bali, especially the crowded areas, unless you are totally confident, licensed, and wearing a helmet.

As a pedestrian in Bali, you also need to watch out. Just keep your eyes and ears open for scooters driving against traffic, scooters turning corners, scooters riding up onto the sidewalk, taxi drivers who don’t feel like stopping, etc, and you should be OK.

Thinking of renting a scooter in Bali? Don’t do it before you read our complete guide to staying safe on your scooter and avoiding scooter scams!

Buying and doing drugs in Bali is just not safe, OK? The drug laws in Indonesia are super-harsh and just not worth trifling with. You will get offered illicit substances as you’re walking down the street.

The only safe (and smart) answer is a smile and a polite “No, thanks.” Scams and stings on tourists buying drugs are also common in Bali. And then, you never know what’s in said drugs that you buy.

Just say “no” to drugs in Bali. Stay present instead and enjoy your time that way.

Monkeys? Really? Are they a threat to your safety in Bali? Well yes, they can be. If you go into Ubud’s Monkey Forest don’t be fooled. The monkeys look cute but they are conniving little guys and smarter than you’d expect.

Try not to take anything with you that doesn’t fit snugly inside pockets when going to the Monkey Forest. This includes backpacks, food, shiny objects like your phone, and water bottles. If a monkey decides it wants what you have, it will come and take it.

Do not encourage the monkeys to come to you, to take food from you, or to climb on you. If they bite, you’ll be spending part of you holiday time in Bali at the medical clinic deciding whether you need rabies shots or not. As someone who has been to the clinic in Bali a lot, I can assure you that it’s not the ideal holiday activity!

Between Stephen and I, we have had 5 cases of dengue fever in Bali. Or maybe a couple of those were Zika. We’re still not 100% sure.

The first time we got dengue, it was definitely dengue. It shut us both down at the same time, for a week. We could barely drag ourselves out of bed. Stephen felt like his bones were being crushed by Gregor Clegane . I felt overwhelming nauseous 24-hours a day. The experience was horrible.

Dengue fever is common in Bali, especially in areas where tourists congregate, like Ubud. It is spread by mosquitos which bite one dengue-infected tourist after another, passing the fun on from one to the next.

Zika is also in Bali, so if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive or if your partner is pregnant or trying to conceive, you should think carefully about going to Bali . For other travellers, Zika is less dangerous than dengue, and you might not even notice if you get it.

You can prevent dengue (and zika) by ALWAYS wearing Deet– or Picardin– based mosquito repellent . It only takes one mosquito bite to become infected, so apply liberally and frequently. I prefer lotion repellent because I hate breathing in all those chemicals that float around with a spray.

If you start feeling like you have the flu, get to the nearest medical clinic.

Dengue just feels fluey when it starts out. If you ignore your symptoms and carry on as normal, dengue can be fatal. Unfortunately, the only treatment for dengue is to rest and drink as much electrolyte and water as you can. You’ll start feeling human again in a few, very long, very awful, days.

Volcanic Eruptions in Bali

Bali’s iconic Mount Agung isn’t just a pretty mountain — it’s also a deadly eruption waiting to happen. Since 2017, Agung has been rumbling and erupting on a regular basis.

In late May 2019, two major eruptions grounded planes and sent Bali residents scurrying away from the area. These aren’t the first eruptions in 2019 and Agung is currently a very active volcano!

The night we arrived for our first 2018 trip to Bali, Agung erupted just a few hours after we got off the plane, closing the airports overnight and causing havoc with people’s travel plans. A few days later, from our guest house on Nusa Penida, we watched Agung spew masses of black clouds and ash into the sky.

It was thrilling and scary. But, so far, the eruptions have been mild and caused little damage.

Of course, there is a risk of a major eruption at any time — it could happen tomorrow or not for 100 years. Nobody can predict it.

Stay away from the Agung exclusion zone, even if it seems “safe” at the time you’re there. Volcanoes don’t give a written warning before they erupt.

There’s not much more you can do!

Earthquakes & Tsunamis in Bali

Indonesia is a volcanic archipelago, so there are earthquakes ALL THE TIME in Bali. Most of these are not strong enough for humans to feel, but some of them are and it can be very scary when they happen.

Last year was a hard one for Indonesia.

First, the island of Lombok was rocked by a series of major earthquakes. Hundreds of people died and tens of thousands were left homeless after the quake. We were on Bali at the time and the eruptions shook our solidly built hotel like it was a kiddie toy. (Read about that later in this post).

Then, a couple of months later, an earthquake and resulting tsunami wiped out entire towns on the island of Sulawesi. A few days later, a 6.0 earthquake hit Java and shook Bali as well.

The series of earthquakes has been devastating for Indonesia — physically, psychologically, and economically. Even if the worst earthquakes are over for now, the impact will be felt for years to come.

Keep reading to find out what it was like during the earthquakes, how to prepare for an earthquake while you’re in Bali, and how to keep yourself safe during an earthquake.

How to Stay Safe in an Earthquake in Bali

If you do decide to travel to Bali – or anywhere with frequent earthquakes – you should be prepared for an earthquake to happen at any time.

Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in Bali:

• Always have a grab-and-go bag packed. At a minimum, it should contain: your passport and wallet, extra cash, a big bottle of water, warm clothes, your phone charger, a charged power bank if you have one, and something to eat.
• Look for safe spaces. When you enter a building, notice where your nearest escape route is. Look around for any heavy furniture or archways where you could shelter if an earthquake strikes. Decide ahead of time what you will do, so you can act decisively instead of panicking.
• Be aware of your surroundings. In many countries, you are supposed to stay inside if an earthquake strikes. It seems counterintuitive, but in a typical earthquake, your chances of being hit by falling windows, plaster, or palm fronds are greater than the chance of an entire building collapsing.In Bali, staying inside is not necessarily the right move.Most buildings there are poorly built and not made to withstand earthquakes. Because of that, people usually run outside when there is a quake.Unless you’re in an extremely solid building, be prepared to get outside quickly. You’ll need to get away from trees and buildings as quickly as possible and stand in a cleared space. Be aware of trees, powerlines, and other hazards.
• Don’t forget about tsunamis. If you’re at the beach, have an escape plan ready. In low-lying beach communities like Sanur there are tsunami escape route signs posted. Be aware of them and use them at the first tsunami warning. Don’t wait for other people to act first.In areas like Uluwatu, where the beaches are at the bottom of a cliff, be aware of the nearest stairs off the beach and use them immediately if there’s a tsunami warning.Your best source for updates after an earthquake, including the possibility of a tsunami is the Twitter feed of BMKG Indonesia .Look for the words “TIDAK berpotensi tsunami” or “TDK berpotensi tsunami” which translates as “NO potential of a tsunami.” If it just says “berpotensi tsunami”, get to high ground immediately.

When’s the Next Earthquake?

After the series of earthquakes and hundreds of aftershocks that have hit Indonesia, it seems logical to stay away from the area.

If several quakes have happened, surely more are on the way, right?

Well, not necessarily…

The truth is, no one can tell you for sure whether it’s safe to go to Bali right now. Earthquakes are unpredictable – they literally cannot be predicted – and they don’t follow any discernible pattern.

Just because there were several large earthquakes in Indonesia recently, it doesn’t mean there are more to come. Just because those earthquakes were only minor trembles in Bali, doesn’t mean Bali is necessarily safe.

The truth is, we just don’t know what’s going to happen next in Indonesia.

So, is it safe to go to Bali right now or not?

The answer is that it’s no more or less safe than it was when you first decided to go. It’s no more or less safe than when you booked your ticket or than when your friends raved about their “holiday in paradise”.

The truth is, if you’re scared of earthquakes, then you should stay away from the entire Ring of Fire — including Japan, Indonesia, New Zealand, western Canada, California, and western South America — at all times.

Earthquakes in this region are frequent and hit without warning.

Of course, we never recommend that you let fear of the unknown make your decisions for you.

“It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door.” – J.R.R. Tolkien

Were the Bali Earthquakes Scary?

We were in Bali for two months, which means we felt the three big Lombok earthquakes and many of the aftershocks.

Wake up and Shake Up

During the first big quake, a 6.4 magnitude on July 29, we were asleep in our hotel room in Ubud when the shutters started to rattle.

Stephen woke up first, thinking that our neighbours were just being excessively noisy. When he realized that the bed was shaking and our ceiling fan was swaying, he yanked me out of bed in a panic. By the time I fully woke up, the quake was over.

That afternoon, the building started to shake again, and we ran outside with the hotels employees.

Catch a Wave

A few days later, on August 5th, the devastating 6.9 quake struck.

As our room started to sway, we grabbed a big bottle of water and hid in our small bathroom.

Despite the solid stone construction of our hotel, it felt as if we were standing on a SUP board with waves gently rolling beneath us. The sensation, which lasted for almost a minute, was bizarre and more than a little terrifying.

Even though we’ve lived in earthquake regions most of our lives (Vancouver and L.A. both get hit frequently), this was the biggest, longest, and scariest quake we have ever experienced.

Just as our hearts had stopped racing, an aftershock hit, sending us into fight-or-flight mode once again. It took a few days for us to completely calm down.

While the residents of Lombok were mourning the hundreds dead and trying to piece their lives back together, things went back to business as usual on Bali. We joined hundreds of other tourists in restaurants, beaches, and tourist attractions. The earthquakes had very little effect on most people’s holidays.

Shake, Rattle & Roll

On August 19, we were waiting for our friends on a beach in Uluwatu , on the southern shores of Bali, when they messaged us to ask if we’d felt the earthquake.

We hadn’t, but we quickly got online to find that another 6.4 had struck. Being on the beach, we immediately checked for a tsunami warning. We were ready to flee but luckily there was no tsunami.

Later that night, just after we’d fallen asleep, I dreamed I was in a rocking boat. It took me a few seconds to realize that it was the bed that was rocking and the whole room was shaking.

I woke Stephen up, but by the time we had found the light switch and put on some clothes, the shaking had stopped. The news reports came in quickly, showing another 7.0 had hit Lombok.

We felt three aftershocks that night as we lay anxiously in bed.

These experiences left us feeling small, vulnerable, and extremely on edge.

Though the earthquakes had no discernible impact on the day-to-day lives of the tourists and locals we encountered in Bali, I still have to admit, I’m pretty glad we’re back in Europe now!

I hope this post has helped you understand the safety precautions you should take before travelling to Bali after the Lombok earthquakes. If you have any specific questions that we haven’t answered here, please ask below and we’ll answer as soon as possible.

How You Can Help Indonesian Earthquake Victims

While you’re worrying about your holiday, we’d also like to ask you to think about the earthquake victims in Indonesia.

Tens of thousands of homes have been destroyed which has left thousands of people sleeping under tarps . They don’t even have access to basics necessities, like fresh vegetables, rice, or tools to start digging out the rubble of their houses.

Please consider donating a portion of your holiday money to helping them get back on their feet.

We recommend Pituq Community Foundation, who run not only the best restaurant on Gili Trawangan , but also run a great, community-led charity.

They are working to help provide care for the people who lives have been devastated by these earthquakes.

There are more excellent suggestions for helping Indonesian earthquake victims here .

While the earthquakes will die down and news outlets will move on to the next big story, these people will be without homes for months or even years. If you can afford a trip to Bali, you can afford to spend a little to help these people in deep need. Please do.

As with any travel, you should always check the travel advisories your country issues before you go anywhere. If you travel to a destination with a travel advisory in place, you may find that it invalidates your travel insurance.

Here are the official sites for Canadian , UK , Australian , and American travel advisories. So far, no countries are advising against travel to Bali or Indonesia because of COVID-19.

It is recommended that you keep clear of the exclusion zone around Mount Agung, although the last eruption was 8 months ago.

The most important part of your disaster preparation, no matter where you’re travelling, is travel insurance.

While some insurance companies don’t pay out in the event of natural disasters, other freak accidents can happen any time.

While it is pretty safe to travel to Bali, I can’t count the number of travellers I’ve seen in Bali with bandages around legs, ankles, arms and shoulders — a byproduct of newbies hopping on motorcycles and surf boards.

Minor accidents happen all the time, and once in a while, those accidents can become major.

If you have to go to the hospital or go home early because of accident or injury, travel insurance can pay your extra expenses.

And if you don’t think it can happen to you…

Stephen and I have both had near-death experiences in the last year through no fault of our own.

I got malaria in Laos and ended up in the hospital. Stephen scraped his elbow falling off a bike. It became so infected he had to have emergency surgery! We were so glad to have insurance that paid for thousands of dollars of medical costs.

If you don’t have insurance yet, check out World Nomads .

They provide trip cancellation, emergency medical, and coverage for more than 150 adventure activities. More importantly, they are trusted by almost all of the travel bloggers and pro travellers we know!

More Bali Travel Tips

Use these Bali posts to help plan your transformational trip!

• Renting a Scooter in Bali – Cost, Safety Tips and More • How to Have an Amazing Time at the Tegalalang Rice Fields • Vegan Ubud – Tasty Plant-Based Meals in Ubud, Bali • Your Guide to the Best Bali Retreats for Every Budget • Nusa Penida Trip – 21 Things to Know Before You Go

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

It’s easy to help us keep this blog going! The insurance links in this post are our personal affiliate links. If you buy insurance using our link, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

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Is Bali Safe to Visit in 2024? Safety Tips To Know!

The ultimate summer paradise, Bali, is visited by millions of tourists annually. And after spending months on and off there, I totally understand why. But if you've never been there before, you're probably wondering... Is Bali safe to travel to for tourists? My in-depth blog's got all the safety info and tips you'll need!

Traveling to a new country can be a little daunting. I get it... I was nervous before I traveled too! But exploring somewhere new brings a whole fresh glow to your life.

Traveling to Bali is a popular choice for millions of tourists every year. And why wouldn’t you want to?

When I visited, I could enjoy the luscious jungles, bewitching culture, mouth-watering food, and some of the best beaches for surfing and suntanning . Bali really is a backpacker's heaven!

This guide is definitely for you if you’re thinking twice about safety in Bali or Southeast Asia. From one solo traveler to another, I’ve covered every topic under the sun when it comes to staying safe while traveling in Bali.

So if you’re wondering, “Is Bali safe for travelers?”, keep scrolling and bookmark this page for use later when you’re actually there!

But like any other trip, there are a few things to be mindful of. Keep reading to discover all things safety in Bali and what to avoid!

Is Bali Safe to Visit?

The simple answer is yes! Bali is one of the safest islands in Southeast Asia, enjoyed by millions of foreign visitors each year.

And no, there’s no impending doom on that side of the world!

There is a harmless range of petty theft or scammers looking to make an extra buck, but that’s about it.

Bali is spread out over 95 miles, with 141 million people living in it. Calling Bali a dreamy destination wouldn’t be a lie, but the province has its ob  wn share of safety issues you should watch out for—like robbers and scammers.

Naturally, crime tends to occur more in tourist areas. Yet, this risk is low in comparison to other regions across Southeast Asia.

So rest easy because you’re making the right decision if traveling to Bali. But before you go, here's all the info you need to know, aside from understanding that common sense is the best first step!

Is Bali Safe to Visit this year?

The answer is still a resounding yes!

Bali is one of the safest places in Indonesia and Southeast Asia in general, popularized by both Westerners and Asians alike as one of the best places to visit.

While some countries, such as Canada, issue travel advisories for Indonesia, they're restricted to regions like Indonesian Papua for increased threats of tourist attacks and political tensions, and Mount Agung for a possible volcanic eruption.

Tourists are generally very safe and Bali is not located in any of the areas where there are travel advisory listed. The only issues that plague most tourist destinations are pickpocketing, scams, and other petty thefts.

Violent crime is very rare, especially with tourists. Regardless, exercise caution when travel.

What Should You Know About Bali Crime Rate?

The crime rate that impacts tourists in Bali is extremely low. In 2019, there were 72 crimes per 100000 inhabitants, which equals to about a 0.072% chance of being a victim of crimes. Thankfully, that number still hasn’t changed significantly in 2024!

But I want to warn you that Bali is no stranger to petty crimes like scams, pickpocketing, and robbing. With a sleight of hand, you might lose some cash or discover your wristwatch’s gone.

The main crime that’s been rising in recent years is credit card scams. Shop or restaurant owners record credit card details when you pay for something.

And you might not realize immediately, but your money will slowly drain out. So when you’re touring Bali, keep paying in cash.

Pro Tip: Make sure you exchange cash before you travel to Bali. Store your money in a secure bag in your hostel locker to keep it safe.

If you need more cash, use a reputable bank's ATM. ATMs can be found in many popular tourist areas.

Top Scams in Bali to Watch Out For

Crime in Bali is mainly petty and rarely becomes violent. But there are quite a lot of scammers waiting to pounce on innocent travelers like you. Thousands, and I mean thousands, of people every year get caught up in these scams in Bali.

So I wanted to run you through the top scams to avoid in Bali. Knowing about them and preparing beforehand is better than getting caught up while you're there!

From traveling in Athens to vacationing in Mexico, taxi scams are among the biggest ones to watch out for. And these are designed to target unsuspecting tourists like you and me!

And yes, I fell for it myself, so please learn from my mistakes.

Taxis in Bali come with a meter that is supposed to calculate the fare at the end based on government guidelines. Some taxi scammers won’t run the meter and then extort you for a large sum once you’re at your destination.

They might even take longer routes and delay your ride to rack up the amount to an insane value.

Other scammers will be extremely polite and load your suitcases or bags in the car. But once you’re at your destination, they’ll speed off with your luggage! So never leave the taxi itself unless you’ve got all your items out.

Hot tip: Download an app like Jayride or Grab to make safe transport an accessible feature on your travels to Bali

Drink Spiking

Drink spiking is a sad reality in many countries, regardless of whether it’s a tourist country or not. And unfortunately, this act leads to sexual assault and theft.

So when you’re out and about in Bali’s exotic nightlife, keep an eye on what you’re drinking, whether it's alcohol or a more tame option. Drink spiking in Bali mainly happens to women, and you’ll wake up with most of your precious belongings gone!

So if possible, hang out in groups with your friends and let each other watch out for any spiking.

But if you’re a lady solo traveler like me, don’t lose hope yet!

What I found extremely helpful for avoiding these situations is getting a drink-spiking cover scrunchie . This sneaky cover can be a scrunchie you wear on your wrist or tie up your hair when the weather is windy.

But when you’re out drinking and have to look away from your drink, cap your glass with this!

Might I add that this isn’t just a Bali trick, and you can make this smart purchase for simply hanging out in your hometown safely.

Fake Tour Guides

Tour guides will pop up occasionally, but it’s your job to decline their services firmly. If you’re in Bali for a safe trip, book reliable guides and services beforehand.

You can check out reviews of reputable guides and book one with high ratings and reviews.

Some scammers will pose as airport porters, fake temple guides, and even monks who will loudly demand money for giving you their blessings!

If a porter touches your luggage and tries forcibly carrying it for you, be firm and demand to have their hands off of it.

If you really want a well-executed tour of Bali, I recommend using these platforms:

• TripAdvisor
• ToursByLocals

Gambling Rings

Gambling and drug possession are highly illegal in Bali, and some laws can land you in troubling waters. Some locals will invite you to gamble a small amount of money in this scam.

But as the gambling continues, the amount will soon become considerable...

You won’t realize that these are underground gambling rings and the scammers are turning you in to authorities. So you’ll either wound up in jail or pay a hefty penalty for breaking the law.

Oh, and you’ll also never get that gambled money back!

Money Exchanging and ATM Scam

Ah, you’re getting money from an ATM to indulge in some retail therapy. Stop!

Many ATMs in Bali have card skimmers that read your personal information and drain your bank account within minutes once you leave the ATM. So don’t just believe that these random ATMs on every other street are a convenience.

Always head to an ATM within a bank or other business properties like shopping plazas. Cover your pin number as you punch it in and press the cancel button a few times before you leave the ATM.

The same goes out for money exchange tables in markets that promise you better rates than the current market rate. Please don’t fall for these traps!

Natural Disasters in Bali

You might be shocked to know that the highest risk to tourists in Bali is natural disasters! Bali is the king of natural disasters, including active volcanoes, which can strike at any given moment.

Some of the most common natural disasters in Bali include:

• Earthquakes,
• Flash floods,
• Thunderstorms,
• Volcanic activity or volcanic eruptions,
• Rough seas and riptides.

The rainy season is one to watch out for. Bali's rainy season lasts from October to March, making it the most common time for bad weather’s appearance.

So unless you’re a “I want to see where life takes me,” person, I say plan carefully!

Hot tip: Find out the best times to go to Bali and catch the area during its peak beauty! Or simply avoid the months when disasters are likely to occur.

Remember, check with official government websites about travel advisories!

Other Safety Concerns

Here are some other safety-related concerns or general good-to-knows when you're in the country of Indonesia.

Remember to always be mindful and open-minded of other country's culture, especially as a visitor of the country.

Here are some things to consider:

• Drugs: Drugs are highly illegal in Indonesia, as it is with most Asian countries, and are often punishable by either life in prison or the dealth penalty. Yes, that includes Indonesia and Bali. They're no joke. Avoid doing drugs or being in proximity with drugs, as Indonesian police often set out to catch foreigners doing them.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: PDA, such as kissing and hugging, is considered taboo in Balinese cultures. Dress modestly, especially in temples or other religious areas when you're told to do so.
• Bali Monkeys: While it may be cool to interact closely with the monkeys at the monkey sanctuary, they've gotten used to human interactions, and will often steal your belongings and food if they're not secured. Also, I would highly recommend against touching or petting them as some carry Rabies.
• Know Evacuation Protocols: Indonesia, including Bali, often have evacuation protocols in events of natural disasters. Read up on them and ask your accommodation if theres any increased risk that you should be aware of while you'er there.

What Should I Avoid in Bali?

Bali is famous for all it has to offer. From sacred temples to surfer's paradise, backpackers, digital nomads, and tourists fall in love with this majestic island.

But with all the variety, there are things to avoid. I've mentioned quite a few already but here's a direct summary in case you've missed them.

Let's take a look at what not to do in Bali:

• Avoid drinking tap water because it’s not as clean as other countries and can upset your stomach.
• Renting a scooter without a license? Avoid driving without a license at all costs!
• Car accidents can be fatal and common in Bali so don’t rent cars or bikes on your own. Stick to taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Cover yourself modestly when visiting temples. Showing tattoos or unnecessary skin is prohibited and can have you kicked out.
• Don’t drink locally-brewed liquor because it often results in death.
• Indonesia is a modest country and labels acts of hugging or kissing illegal!
• Always wear mosquito spray or long clothing on hikes. Avoid those mosquitos at all costs, as they aren't as friendly as the locals.
• Steer clear of animals including stray dogs and monkeys. These animals might look friendly but they aren’t. Never feed the monkeys anything, and don’t touch stray dogs because they’re a rabies case waiting to happen!

Places to Avoid in Bali

Like any country, Bali has its share of bad neighborhoods and districts. I’ve been to a few of them because they also happen to be some of the most popular places to visit!

If you’re a solo traveler, I suggest finding some other tourists and making these a group visit to keep an eye out for each other.

Kuta Beach is notorious for its sprightly nightlife and surfing scene. But it’s also famous for attracting a fair share of pickpockets and scam artists. So if someone comes up with an unsolicited offer or service, run and never look back.

You’ll see a similar case for Jalan Legian too. This one’s a popular street lined with colorful bars, clubs, and shops, but it can get quite rowdy. And I say that from experience.

If your plan is to visit those hidden gem beaches in Bali, keep the sea conditions in mind.

Indonesian seas can get pretty rough, pretty quickly. If you get caught up in any unforeseen accident or problem, you won’t be able to get out fast enough with slow service and a lack of people around.

Best to stick with some main destinations, am I right?

More Frequently Asked Safety Questions

Is bali safe for female solo travelers.

Yes! Bali is as safe as other similarly popular tourist destinations, especially for female solo travelers. In fact, you’ll realize that Bali is where a lot of women and girl groups head for their first big adventure abroad.

With friendly locals, an active nightlife, and an incredible community of travelers like you, Bali is a safe haven for those who choose to visit the destination. Often, there are a lot of people around and most districts are safe.

But I want to point out that there may be instances of verbal harassment by local men, especially if you look foreign from a local’s perspective.

You might get catcalled or have to be extra cautious with your drinks in a party district.

There’s no reason not to explore the area or go off the beaten track. That being said, don't throw all caution to the wind.

Trust your gut.

Is Bali Safe at Night?

Yes, Bali is safe at night even if you’re a solo traveler. The nightlife makes it impossible to be absolutely alone at any hour of the night. You’ll also find that locals are more often helpful than dangerous.

At least, I can recommend it as a safe place at night from my own personal experience!

What’s the Safest Mode of Transport?

Bali’s economy relies on tourism and the province hosts over 14 million residents. Do you know what that equals to? A whole lot of headache-inducing traffic!

But wait… let me tell you some safe ways to get around Bali easily!

You can hop in a local taxi without much risk. Just make sure the taxi is a registered one. Look for a sky-blue exterior with a white light on the roof.

P.S. Remember my scam tip from earlier. Always agree on a fixed price with the taxi driver or ask for the meter to be set in front of you. Also, don’t leave your belongings unattended for more than a second!

Local Tours

Not everyone wants to navigate the busy roads in Bali. The traffic can be overwhelming!

If you’re feeling unsure, I would recommend a local beach tour to help you explore. Not only do you get an expert guide, but you also get the chance to meet like-minded travelers.

Local tours offer a little extra safety and, in true Bali fashion, are great value for money.

A Note on Motorbikes

If you're a very confident driver who understands the hectic conditions of Asian roads, go ahead and enjoy renting a motorbike. But, I would say that this is definitely a more risky mode of transport!

If you do rent, make sure that you check over your motorbike, grab it from a reputable company, and get a helmet too!

You'll also need to ensure that you have an international driver's license as a foreigner who wants to drive in Bali.

Safe Places to Stay in Bali

If you’re looking for a safe place to stay in Bali, stick to the main tourist areas!

Areas like Ubud, Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Canggu are just a few areas that offer great hotels and hostels.

The areas I've listed are easy to get to and are at the heart of some of the best activities in Bali like surfing , the monkey forest , and visiting mesmerizing rice terraces.

Not sure where to start? Check out the best areas to stay for first-timers in Bali !

Wherever you chose to say, make sure your hostel has front desk security, safety lockers, and great ratings from other backpackers.

Safety Tips in Bali

Make the best of your trips with these top safety tips for Bali:

• Keep your phone and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag. Don’t hold it in your hand or put it in your back pocket.
• If you’re carrying a sling bag, hold the sling bag with one hand to avoid a thief from cutting the strap and stealing it.
• Avoid going to less popular destinations at night, especially female travelers.
• Learn basic Indonesian and Balinese phrases to communicate with locals who don’t know English.
• Dress modestly in temples and less touristy areas.
• Book a tour guide or transport service ahead of time online.
• Carry an umbrella with you just in case the weather gets gloomy.
• Always watch out for your drinks and cover them with your hand or any object when it’s unattended.
• Keep your personal belongings and cash safe with a money belt to hide your cash.
• Know basic disaster drills, like what to do in an earthquake or volcanic eruption!
• Don't swim in rough seas or where there are red flags! The tides and currents in Bali can be powerful.

So, Is Travel to Bali Safe?

I've made it pretty obvious... but just to round out this guide: Yep, Bali is a safe place for solo and group travelers.

Crime rates are relatively low, with the only major concern being credit card scams. And, based on my experience visiting Bali multiple times, I felt very safe there, even as a female traveler.

Compared to other areas in Southeast Asia, backpackers, and digital nomads can navigate this island by day and by night with confidence.

With bustling markets, alluring jungles, cascading waterfalls, zen yoga classes, and buzzing nightlife, Bali truly is one of a kind!

And now, you know everything there is to know about staying safe in Bali and taking the proper precautions during your stay.

Backpack Safely with Pilot

Can’t wait to witness the blissful beauty of Bali in person? Make sure that you use a trip-planning platform you can count on!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Is Indonesia Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Indonesia : Safety by City

Indonesia is a transcontinental country, mainly located in Southeast Asia, with some territories stretching into Oceania too.

It is located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean and has land borders with Malaysia to the north, East Timor and Papua New Guinea to the east, Australia to the south, and Palau, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, and Thailand to the north.

It is geographically interesting since, with 18,110 islands, out of which around 6,000 are inhabited, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world.

It is the largest country in Southeast Asia, and astoundingly many people live in it: about 240 million people.

However, Indonesia’s islands and gorgeous beaches aren’t the only things attractive about this country: it offers vast tropical forests stretching days on end, although in the last couple of years, they are being endangered and cut down at an alarming speed.

You should also count in the big cities such as Jakarta and popular islands such as Bali, where the rich tourists enjoy basking in clear waters, or just shopping.

This country truly offers a variety of options for all kinds of tourists.

• Warnings & Dangers in Indonesia

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Indonesia is mostly a safe country to travel to, though it still has its dangers from natural disasters to terrorism and petty theft. Be very cautious on the streets of Indonesia and plan your trip carefully.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Though public transport is significantly better than in its neighboring countries, you should always try to call your reliable taxi driver instead of hailing one on the streets. There are many taxi-related scams, where taxi drivers drive off before you get a chance to take your luggage or force you to collect money from an ATM. Keep in mind that road conditions and drivers' behavior are probably different from what you're used to.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing and bag snatching is a very common issue in Indonesia, especially in public and crowded places like bus and train stations and airports. Keep your belongings by your side at all times and try to leave all your valuables in a security deposit box of your hotel.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Since it is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire (which is the name of an area with a high degree of tectonic activity), Indonesia is especially susceptible to risks of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, but also floods and tsunamis.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Mugging in Indonesia is generally rare, and foreigners are rarely targeted. Violent crime rates are not too high though you should still avoid dark and deserted areas.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

There is a high risk of this country being targeted for a terrorist attack. Recent ones involved suicide bombings and small-arms fire. The last one was performed on May 24th, 2017 when there were bomb explosions at the Kampung Melayu bus station in East Jakarta, killing three police officers.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scams are an issue in Indonesia, like in most countries, and you should be very vigilant, decline all drinks sent by strangers (since drink spiking is very common in this country), double-check every information and negotiate everything in advance. The most common scams in Indonesia are credit card-related, so be careful when collecting your money.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Indonesia is not the safest for solo female travelers. There is the risk of getting unwanted attention or even the risk of sexual assaults toward women. Avoid parts of cities that are filled with bars and clubs, and visiting them alone, since there is a higher chance of running into intoxicated people.

• So... How Safe Is Indonesia Really?

Indonesia is, for the most part, safe to visit, though you should keep in mind many dangers that may befall you if you plan on visiting this gorgeous country.

There are many threats that lurk in Indonesia, from natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes, to social disturbances such as terrorism, attacks, corruption, and crime.

Though crime rates in this country aren’t the biggest issue, and it’s mostly non-violent, you should still take care and be extra cautious.

Muggings, petty theft, and pickpocketing still happen in Indonesia, especially in crowded places such as bus and train stations, markets and areas frequented by tourists.

Watch your laptops, cell phones, valuable cameras and money as thieves have been known to snatch them.

Also, be careful on public transport, since that’s where pickpockets operate and where you can encounter several forms of crime.

Be wary of people sending you drinks since drink spiking is an issue in this country.

Choose your taxis with precaution and always call a reliable driver instead of hailing one on the streets.

Another issue in Indonesia is the politics and the separatist movements that often clash in violent demonstrations and armed struggles in places like Aceh and Papua.

Bear in mind that political events such as elections in Indonesia are often the times of violent and messy demonstrations that you should avoid since they can become so violent that even Indonesian military has to apply violent measures in order to control the protesters.

• How Does Indonesia Compare?
• Useful Information

Many countries must obtain a visa from one of the Indonesian diplomatic missions, though there are some countries that do not need it at all for any stays shorter than 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for 6 months and that you have at least two blank pages in your passport upon your arrival in Indonesia.

The Indonesian rupiah is the official currency in Indonesia. ATMs and money exchange offices are widely available in most of Indonesia's cities though they might be harder to find in rural areas.

Indonesia mostly has a tropical climate characterized by hot and humid weather during the entire year, with very high temperatures, especially along the coastlines. Cooler temperatures can be expected in the highlands of the country.

Soekarno–Hatta International Airport, commonly referred to as Soetta is the busiest and the primary airport in the Greater Jakarta area on the Indonesian island of Java. It is located at Benda, Tangerang, about 20 km northwest of central Jakarta.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Indonesia, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Indonesia Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Indonesia - Safety by City

Explore indonesia.

• 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Indonesia
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Indonesia
• 9 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Indonesia
• 10 Best Flea Markets In Indonesia
• 10 Safest Cities in Indonesia
• 16 Pros and Cons of Living in Indonesia
• Where to Next?

29 Reviews on Indonesia

Thanks a lot for good information of Indonesia given by you. I think to travell to Indonesia, thailand, Malaysia, Hong kong, Brunei, etc countries of eastern side of the world.

the scam one is supposed to be high since the indonesians like to scam people

pretty weird, im indonesian and i never been scammed in my own territory

Not all indonesians

I visited Singapore recently and found it very safe to travel. It is really beautiful and clean. Although it is a bit costly but the beautiful Sentosa , universal studios, garden by the bay are worth the money paid. According to me, a person should visit Singapore once in his or her lifetime.

Ok, but this is not about Singapore but Indonesia…

Someone needs a geography lesson.

Best of all

My family in Jawa tengah…. Cause these virus corona…. I can’t go back to them…. When… When is the same time I want to go back.

I miss my family

YOUR GRAMMAR IS UNIQUE

Learn English

What a dumb reply. Not even a slightly clever troll

Thank you so much

This was very very use ful for my geography report on Jakarta thank you so much

So thank you and I have a lot of knowledge

It is very helpful on the safety part on my Geography Report on Indonesia

Amazingly Welcoming

I had an absolutely amazing time visiting this country. Everyone I personally met was extremely helpful and friendly and especially patient with me through a language barrier. Bottom line, this country will fail to disappoint and the best places, for me, were places off of the beaten tourist path to immerse yourself in the culture and really nice locals. And the folks there just have a generally greeting nature and vibe from everything I’d experienced. I’ll go back, for sure.

Asking for information

That is good to know. I am thinking of visiting there too. Is there camping and outdoor stuff to do? Thank you

Indonesia is cool in full of the beautfuls girls ever

I love indonesia girls

You can’t expected before you coming, all people are welcome always smile make a positive energy when you going place to place. so someday i hope can coming again.

BTW If your lgbtq dont go I almost got put to death :/

Stay the hell away!

DANGER! BEWARE! Terrorists could be lurking around anywhere…don’t risk your life.

They can be anywhere in Europe, also.

Just because Indonesia is Muslim doesn’t mean it’s ridden with terrorists.

Then whats the point of going there and thanks I know what to right about Indonesia and that they are scammers, terrorists, rapist etc

Cheap and good

Been to Indonesia many times. My wife love to shop there Before Christmas. Is safe to travel there, the people are helpful and polite. other countries we went, wasn’t as good as Indonesian hospitality.

Not sure about the other parts, but Bali is pretty safe. Only thing to watch out for is when you are shopping, people often try to rip you off, and try really hard to sell their products, so try not to be pressured into buying things you don’t need. Other than that Bali is very safe.

Life in Indonesia

I lived in Malang Indonesia for about 8 years. During my entire time in the country, I only had – 1 maid that we caught stealing. She was stealing the money out of my bedside table but never removed any of it from our home, she hid it in her room. I found the local people to be truly polite and helpful in any way possible. Health care is extremely poor and their Doctors are the least educated and the worst in the world.

I spent 30 years working and traveling to different countries of the world so I speak about medical care from experience, in addition, I am a Paramedic from the USA and people in the USA get better and more advanced care thru EMS in the USA than a major hospital in Indonesia.

In Malang, their biggest and most advanced hospital had 1 cardiac monitor for the entire hospital of about 300 beds. With dengue fever and Malaria being major health risks I found this totally unacceptable by Western standards. I actually saw medical mistakes take many lives when living there and if I became ill. I went to Singapore.

Other than health care I love Indonesia and since I have now retired I am really thinking about moving back there. The cost of living is pennies compared to the USA and I personally would trust an Indonesian before almost any American I know. If you travel there you will really feel welcome and enjoy yourself immensely.

Good Outline

I am an Indonesian and have been living in Indonesia with occasional travels abroad. Having been travelling within Indonesia, I would say the travel safety outline is almost 100% correct. Larger cities are less safe and smaller towns are mostly very safe. With the exception of certain provinces which have seen conflicts.

Your warning about public transportation is unfortunately correct, particularly in Jakarta. Almost everyone who uses public transportation experiences encounter with pickpockets, some more than one time. I am included.

One thing to add (if appropriate), traffic safety. Please be reminded, bad driving manner is persistent not only amongst motorists. You have to be very careful with practically every vehicle nearby.

Idk indonesia Jamie is. creep

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall due to security risks.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Indonesia (PDF 699.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire services, ambulance and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 110 or 112.

Tourist Police, Bali

Call (+0361) 759 687.

Tourist Police, Jakarta

Call (+201) 526 4073.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Papua (Papua), Papua Highlands (Papua Pegunungan), Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and South Papua (Papua Selatan).

Reconsider your need to travel  to the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan due to the risk of serious security incidents or demonstrations that may turn violent.

• There's an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Indonesia. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.
• Public protests and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and can turn violent with little notice. Expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests. Avoid protests and demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest updates.
• Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. Domestic and international flights can be disrupted. Monitor Indonesia's  Volcano Observatory Notice  for the latest volcanic activity (Bahasa Indonesia and English),  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  and the  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  for updates. 
• There's been tension, including demonstrations and violence, in certain towns in the provinces of Papua,   Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan in recent years. Armed groups have stated that they're targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited. Armed groups have shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, in remote airports in Papua Pegunungan and Papua Tengah provinces.
• Petty and violent crime occurs in Indonesia. Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing occurs. Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Crimes involving taxis and taxi drivers occur. Solo women are at higher risk. Be alert in taxis, public transport, crowds, bars and nightclubs.
• Legal disputes over real estate are common, including in Bali. Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details, do your research and get legal advice.
• Natural disasters such as severe weather, floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis occur regularly. Weather conditions can change quickly during the wet season (October – April). Regularly check weather reports, monitor media and speak to your travel provider before continuing with planned activities. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• When undertaking adventure activities, ensure that functioning safety equipment is available, that you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for these activities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than in Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.
• Some medications, including prescription medications, drugs for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), all cannabis-based products including medicinal cannabis, cannabis-based oils and creams, hemp-based products, CBD, THC, hash and edibles, are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties, such as arrest and jail time, can apply even if you have a prescription. Make sure your  medication is legal in Indonesia .
• Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Full travel advice: Health

• Indonesia has revised its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.
• Penalties for drug offences include heavy fines, long prison sentences and the death penalty. Police target tourist destinations. 
• Some medications are illegal in Indonesia. Harsh penalties can apply even if you have a prescription. It is also illegal to purchase prescription medications online or over the counter without an Indonesian prescription. Ensure you have a valid Indonesian prescription. See ' Health '.

The death penalty exists for some crimes in Indonesia.

• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Learn about local customs. Take care not to offend.
• Aceh province upholds aspects of sharia law. Sharia law applies to everyone, including travellers. Inform yourself about the laws, and be careful not to offend or break local laws. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. See the  Bali Provincial Government's  official website and  FAQs  for further information.
• If you're travelling to Indonesia for tourism, official government duties or business meetings, you can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  online at least 48 hours before your travel to Indonesia. This also applies if you're transiting through Indonesia at international airports, seaports and land crossings. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at some international airports, seaports or land crossings.
• To apply for the e-VOA or VOA, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months of passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) and a return or onward flight booking to another country.
• You may need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Indonesia for purposes not covered by the e-VOA or VOA. Check the latest entry requirements with your travel provider or an  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before travel. Entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice. Monitor media for the latest updates. 
• You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration  for arrival. You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.
• Travel requirements may change at short notice, including travel to Bali and Jakarta by air, land or sea. Contact your travel provider and monitor media for up-to-date details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy, Jakarta , the Australian Consulate-General, Bali , the Australian Consulate-General, Makassar or the Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

The terrorist threat in Indonesia is ongoing. Attacks could happen anywhere and anytime. This includes places that foreigners visit.

Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities. Remain respectful of religious and local customs.

Indonesian authorities continue to investigate and disrupt terrorist groups in Indonesia, including Bali.

Terrorist attacks are motivated by extreme beliefs. Both local grievances as well as events in other parts of the world could motivate extremists in Indonesia towards violence.

Recent terrorist attacks

In December 2022, an explosion occurred at a police station in Bandung, Jawa Barat, killing 2 and injuring 11.

In March 2021, 2 suicide bombers attacked a church in Makassar, injuring dozens.

In the past, police have said that terrorist suspects remain at large and may seek Western targets.

Indonesian security agencies continue to conduct operations against terrorist groups.

Terrorists in Indonesia may carry out small-scale violent attacks with little or no warning.

Be alert in places of worship, especially during periods of religious significance.

Terrorists have targeted places of worship in:

As well as places of worship, other possible targets by terrorists include:

• Indonesian government facilities, premises and symbols associated with the Indonesian Government
• police stations and checkpoints
• bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
• cinemas and theatres
• shopping centres, public transport and transport hubs
• airports and airlines
• clubs, including sporting clubs
• tourist areas and attractions, tour buses and tour groups
• outdoor recreation events

Supporters have committed additional acts of violence in response to high-profile extremists being detained or killed.

To protect yourself during a terrorist attack:

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• follow the advice of local authorities
• don't gather in a group after an attack
• don't gather in a group if you're evacuated from a building

Security remains at a high level at:

• the Australian Embassy in Jakarta
• the Consulates-General in Bali, Makassar and Surabaya

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Most events are announced before they happen; however, protests may occur with little or no notice.

Protests and events are often held near major government buildings and embassies in Jakarta, including the Australian Embassy.

Protests may also occur at any of Australia's Consulates-General in Surabaya, Bali and Makassar, at government buildings, or the offices of international organisations in Indonesia.

You can expect traffic delays and restricted access to locations if there are protests.

Phone or email ahead for an appointment before going to the Embassy or the Consulates-General (see  Local contacts ).

Demonstrations and acts of violence can happen when courts try and sentence extremists.

Conflict between different communities can sometimes occur, including in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Local violence can also be directed at minority groups in other parts of Indonesia, including in Java.

If you're found to endanger security or public order, you may be prosecuted under Indonesia's Immigration laws, which may result in imprisonment or deportation.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor local media for the latest security updates
• plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on significant dates
• be prepared to change your travel plans
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

The provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan experience regular violent clashes involving armed groups, civilians, Indonesian police, and the military. Armed groups have stated that they are targeting foreigners, including Australians. Our ability to provide consular support in these provinces is limited.

Many people have been killed and injured in clashes. This includes members of security forces, armed groups and civilians. Violent attacks have occurred in several areas of these provinces, including in and around Jayapura. There's a risk of more attacks.

On 23 February 2023, a riot broke out in Wamena, Papua Pegunungan, when a crowd attacked Indonesian security personnel following the arrest of two people accused of child kidnapping. 12 civilians and rioters were killed.

Violent attacks have occurred around the Freeport Mine in Papua Tengah.

Armed groups have:

• taken a New Zealand pilot hostage in Paro, Papua Pegunungan
• shot at aircraft, including commercial planes, at Beoga airport in Pupua Tengah province and Nop Goliat Dekai airport in Papua Pegunungan province. 
• killed people in attacks, including one Australian
• attacked vehicles using the road between Grasberg and Timika
• killed people in violent attacks in Puncak Jaya District, Papua Tengah
• more attacks are possible and could target infrastructure and national institutions.

A range of crimes, including violent crime, occur in Indonesia. Crimes can happen in popular tourist locations in Bali.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be aware of your surroundings
• be alert in crowds
• understand the potential crime risks

Theft, robbery  and bag and phone snatching have occurred. These crimes can sometimes involve violence. Opportunistic crime such as pickpocketing occurs.

Be careful of thieves:

• on motorcycles targeting pedestrians
• in upmarket shopping malls
• in crowded public transport
• at traffic lights targeting people in stopped cars
• at bars and nightclubs
• when entering accommodation, including villas in Bali

Keep bags and valuables out of sight in vehicles.

If you're travelling on foot, walk:

• on footpaths
• away from the curb
• with your bag held away from traffic

Sexual assault

If you're a victim of sexual assault :

• get immediate medical assistance. If you have any doubts about seeking medical assistance after a sexual assault, contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate in Indonesia (see  Local contacts ) as quickly as possible.
• make a full statement to local police, in person, so they can conduct a criminal investigation. You may wish to seek consular help before you visit the police station. Contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ).

Local police can only investigate a crime after you've left Indonesia if you've reported it.

Your sworn statement, or statements by witnesses, can be used as evidence in criminal court proceedings.

You don't always need to be in Indonesia for trial. Neither do witnesses who live outside of Indonesia.

Counselling support

Should you wish to speak to a counsellor, you can call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate (see  Local contacts ). They can connect you to counselling hotlines and services.

• Reducing the risk of sexual assault

Bars and nightclubs

Be alert in bars and nightclubs. Drink-spiking and snatching of valuables may occur if you're not alert.

Drinks may be contaminated with drugs or toxic substances. See  Health .

Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.

Never accept drinks, food, gum, cigarettes, vapes or e-cigarettes from people you've just met.

• Partying safely

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card, online banking and ATM fraud occurs in Indonesia.

Check your bank statements.

Make sure your bank doesn't block your cards. Tell your bank you'll be visiting Indonesia.

Never let your card out of your sight. This includes when you pay in restaurants.

Shield your PIN from sight.

Some vendors install hidden cameras and use card skimmers.

Don’t click on unknown links in WhatsApp or mobile phone text messages, particularly if your phone is linked to mobile banking.

Use ATMs at controlled and secure places, such as:

• shopping centres

Scams and confidence tricks

Beware of scams and confidence tricks.

Only exchange money at authorised money changers. Authorised money changers can also be found on the  Bali Foreign Exchange website . Unauthorised money changers have been known to scam foreign tourists in Bali and elsewhere.

All types of gambling are illegal in Indonesia.

Australians have lost large sums of money in card game scams run by organised gambling gangs, particularly in Bali. See Local laws

Some tourists have been robbed or planted with drugs after taking new acquaintances back to their hotel rooms. In some cases, their drinks were spiked.

Legal disputes over the purchase of real estate are common, including in Bali, involving:

• holiday clubs and resorts
• timeshare schemes

Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details:

• thoroughly research the proposal
• get legal advice and know your rights, especially before you sign any documents

Using taxis

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Crimes involving unregistered taxis include:

• taxis departing before the passenger can take their baggage from the vehicle
• taxi drivers robbing or temporarily holding passengers, including in urban areas
• taxi drivers forcing passengers to withdraw money at ATMs before releasing them

Lone female travellers are at higher risk of crime.

If you're in an incident involving a taxi, leave the taxi and the immediate area if it's safe to do so.

To protect yourself from overcharging and scams:

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters working
• ensure the driver's identification card is visible
• book via your phone, on an official taxi company mobile app, from inside an airport, or at stands at major hotels

See Travel .

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

On 7 February 2023, a New Zealand pilot was taken hostage by an armed group in Paro, Papua Pegunungan.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Adventure activities

Many businesses don't follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes transport and tour operators, water sports providers, hotels, restaurants and shops.

It may affect adventure activities, such as:

• bungee jumping
• scuba diving and snorkelling 
• chairlift or gondola rides

In the past, Australians have been seriously injured or died while participating in adventure activities. If you require intensive care medical treatment, emergency surgery or medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about safety, search and rescue procedures
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• check with your travel provider on vessel capacity limits before embarking on sea, land or air travel
• check weather and ocean conditions, and whether the vessel has had any mechanical issues, on the day and before continuing with water activities or sea travel
• check where the nearest medical facilities are

If proper safety equipment isn't available or you're unsure of the provider's safety or maintenance procedures, use another provider.

Trekking and climbing

Some mountain treks suit only experienced climbers. Travel with a guide and check the level of difficulty beforehand.

Many trekking options may be on or around an active volcano. Many of Indonesia's volcanoes are active and can erupt without warning. Volcanic and seismic activity may continue for some time. Adhere to exclusion zones around volcanoes, which can change at short notice, and follow the advice of local authorities. If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, check with local authorities before climbing and check:

• Bureau of Meteorology  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre  
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia) for daily updates on status and alert levels
• National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB)  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Swimming safety

People have drowned in coastal areas, including in Bali, due to rough seas, strong currents, or from swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving in areas where there is frequent passage of boats, resulting in collisions.

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Saltwater crocodiles are in rivers throughout Indonesia. Avoid swimming around river estuaries and seek local advice in other locations. 

If you plan to spend time in or on the water:

• regularly check weather reports as sea conditions can change rapidly
• take warnings seriously
• check media and local sources for information about potential dangers
• speak to your travel provider about safety equipment and weather conditions before continuing with planned activities
• take a friend or family member with you when you undertake swimming or water activities
• be careful when swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving near motor-powered boats or where there is frequent passage of boats
• ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities

Ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities.

Climate and natural disasters

Indonesia experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• landslides and mudslides
• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes
• storms resulting in turbulent sea conditions
• tsunamis and high wave events

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• check the media and local sources for information
• don't undertake sea, land or air travel if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia) 

Floods and mudslides

Floods , landslides and mudslides occur regularly during the wet season from October to April, with some severe events resulting in injury, displacement, death or damaged infrastructure.

Heavy rains can cause significant flooding in urban areas, including the greater Jakarta region, causing disruption to transportation. Monitor the local media for updates.

Walking and driving in flooded areas can be dangerous. Flood waters may hide uncovered drainage ditches.

Volcanic activity may escalate with little or no notice, leading to flight disruptions and airport closures, including in surrounding provinces. Contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

There are 147 volcanoes in Indonesia. 76 of them are active volcanoes and could erupt at any time.

Volcanic alert levels and exclusion zones may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice. Volcanic activity can disrupt domestic and international flights. There are 4 volcano alert levels in Indonesia; 1 - normal, 2 - advisory, 3 - watch, 4 - warning.

Before you travel to areas that are prone to volcanic activity, monitor media and ensure you read the Indonesian Government's latest advice on current volcanic activity, including:

• Volcanic Activity Report  by Indonesia's Multiplatform Application for Geohazard Mitigation and Assessment (MAGMA) (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Volcano Activity and Observatory Notices  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• MAGMA Indonesia Map of Latest Volcano Levels and Climate Information  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Bureau of Meteorology's  Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre

If there's volcanic activity:

• avoid the area
• take official warnings seriously and adhere to exclusion zones
• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• read our advice on Volcanic eruptions while travelling

Volcanic ash can cause breathing difficulties. The risk is higher for people with chronic respiratory illnesses, including:

Recent and frequent volcanic activity has included:

• Mount Ile Lewetolok in East Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Timur)
• Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Flores Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur
• Mount Marapi in West Sumatra
• Mount Anak Krakatau, to the south of Sumatra
• Mount Merapi, near Yogyakarta
• Mt Dukono in North Sulawesi
• Mount Semeru, near Malang, East Java
• Mount Agung in Bali
• Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra

Some trekking routes are on or near active volcanoes, including Mount Agung and Mount Batur in Bali, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, Mount Merapi near Yogyakarta, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in East Java. See 'Trekking and climbing'.

If you're planning to travel to an area near an active volcano, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and check if any restrictions apply.

If a volcanic eruption occurs:

• make a backup plan in case you're affected
• contact your airline or travel insurer to confirm flight schedules and get help
• keep in touch with family and friends
• Learn more about  volcanic eruptions  (Geoscience Australia)
• See practical advice and information about  volcanic eruptions  (US CDC)
• See worldwide  volcanic activity reports  in real-time (GDACS)

Earthquakes

Indonesia is in an active earthquake region. It has a high level of earthquake activity, that sometimes triggers tsunamis.

There are approximately 4,000 earthquakes across Indonesia every year. Around 70 to 100 of these are over 5.5 magnitude.

Earthquakes can cause death, injury and significant damage to infrastructure.

Strong earthquakes can occur anywhere in Indonesia. They are less common in Kalimantan and south-west Sulawesi.

To stay safe during an earthquake:

• know the emergency plans at your accommodation
• take precautions to avoid exposure to debris and hazardous materials, including asbestos
• MAGMA Indonesia  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  (Bahasa Indonesia) or BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app (English and Indonesia)
• Indonesia's Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation  (Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake  (English)

Forest fires and smoke haze

During the dry season in April to November, widespread forest fires can cause smoke haze resulting in poor air quality across parts of Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands, central Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Smoke haze could affect your health and travel plans.

Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions.

• ASEAN Regional Haze Situation
• Smartraveller advice on Bushfires

Tsunamis and high wave events

The Indian and Pacific Oceans experience more frequent, large and destructive tsunamis than other parts of the world.

There are many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches.

High wave events can happen throughout coastal regions and between islands. They're caused by strong weather conditions and storms.

If you plan to surf, undertake water activities or travel by sea, check local conditions regularly.

If there’s a tsunami or high wave event: 

• don't travel by sea if it's not safe to do so
• Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre  issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is expected
• Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency  with the latest list of earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 5.0 on the Richter scale (Bahasa Indonesia) or  BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app  (English and Bahasa Indonesia)
• US Federal Emergency Management Agency page  on what to do before, during and after an earthquake

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Indonesia.

The  International Maritime Bureau (IMB)  issues weekly piracy reports.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check  IMB piracy  reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures
• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise
• International Maritime Bureau

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including emergency treatment and medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Before you travel, confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away, including on all forms of transport you plan to take
• whether it covers medical evacuation in the event of hospitalisation or injury
• any exclusions to your policy

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are illegal in Indonesia.

If you plan to bring over-the-counter or prescription medication, check if it's legal in Indonesia by contacting the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and carry it in its original packaging. Purchasing prescription medication online in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller prior to your purchase.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for medical treatment or use

If you're caught with illegal medicine, you could face detention, fines or harsher penalties. You could face charges even if an Australian doctor prescribed the medication.

Ask the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra for advice before you travel.

Medicinal cannabis and cannabis-based products

Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and creams, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

• Medications

Health Risks

Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill, including in Bali, is significantly below the standard available in Australia. Medical evacuation may not be possible.

The Australian Government cannot guarantee your access to hospitals and other health services in Indonesia. 

Medical evacuation to Australia for medical conditions, is possible but is very expensive and may not be covered by travel insurance. Check your policy before you travel.

Ban on sale of liquid/syrup medication

The Indonesian Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised local health workers and pharmacists to stop selling liquid/syrup medication, including commonly used medications containing paracetamol and cough syrups. MoH and the Indonesian Paediatrician Association (IDAI) received reports of a sharp increase in cases of Atypical Progressive Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in children , especially under the age of 5 years.

Insect-borne illnesses

Insect-borne illnesses are common throughout the year.

To protect yourself from disease:

• research your destination
• ask locals for advice
• make sure your accommodation is mosquito-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Dengue  occurs throughout Indonesia, including Bali, Jakarta and other major cities.

Dengue is common during the rainy season.

Australian health authorities have reported an increase in dengue infections in people returning from Bali in recent years.

Consult your travel doctor for further information on available vaccines and their suitability for your individual circumstances.

Zika virus  can occur in Indonesia.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

The  Australian Department of Health and Aged Care  advises pregnant women to:

• discuss any travel plans with their doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria , including chloroquine-resistant strains, is widespread in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah, Papua Selatan, Papua Barat Daya, Papua Barat, Maluku and Nusa Tenggara Timur. There is no malaria transmission in Jakarta.

• Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Japanese encephalitis and filariasis

Japanese encephalitis  and  filariasis  occur in Indonesia, especially in rural agricultural areas.

Japanese encephalitis has been present in Australian travellers returning from Indonesia, including Bali.

Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers. 

• Infectious diseases

Drink poisoning

People have been poisoned by alcoholic drinks contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol and arak (a traditional rice-based spirit). Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks.

Cases of drink poisoning have been reported in Bali and Lombok.

Contaminated drinks have included:

• local spirits
• spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails
• brand name alcohol

To protect yourself from drink poisoning:

• consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages
• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to drinking too much. However, they are usually stronger.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include:

• vision problems

Vision problems may include:

• blindness, blurred or snowfield vision
• changes in colour perception
• difficulty looking at bright lights
• dilated pupils
• flashes of light
• tunnel vision

If you suspect that you or someone you're travelling with may have been poisoned, act quickly. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability.

Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the Indonesian police.

Magic mushrooms

Don't consume magic mushrooms. They're illegal.

Australians have become sick or injured after taking magic mushrooms.

Australians have been in trouble with local police after taking magic mushrooms, particularly in Bali.

Magic mushrooms can cause major health problems, including:

• erratic behaviour
• severe hallucinations

Rabies is a risk throughout Indonesia, especially in:

• Nusa Tenggara Timur, including Labuan Bajo
• South Sulawesi
• West Kalimantan
• Nias, off the west coast of Sumatra

To protect yourself from rabies:

• avoid direct contact with dogs
• don't feed or pat animals
• avoid contact with other animals, including bats and monkeys.

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination. 

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly for 15 minutes
• seek urgent medical attention.

Rabies treatment in Indonesia may be limited, including the rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin availability. If you're bitten, you may need to return to Australia or travel to another country for immediate treatment.

You're at risk of contracting rabies if you visit a market where live animals and fresh food are sold because:

• live rabies-positive dogs may be present
• rabies-positive dog meat may be sold as food

Selling dog meat for human consumption is a breach of government disease control regulations.

Avoid contact with monkeys, even in places where you're encouraged to interact with them. This includes:

• popular markets
• tourist destinations
• sanctuaries

Legionnaires' disease

Cases of Legionnaires' disease have been reported in people who have travelled to Bali. Travellers who are unwell with flu-like symptoms within 10 days of returning from Bali are advised to consult their GPs.

• Legionnaires' disease warning for Bali travellers  (Western Australian Government Department of Health) 
• Legionnaires’ disease  (Better Health Channel, Victorian Government Department of Health)
• Legionnaires' disease  (World Health Organization)

Cases of poliovirus (type 1) have been reported in the provinces of Papua, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Tengah and Papua Selatan. Poliovirus (type 2) cases have been reported in the provinces of Aceh, East, West and Central Java. There may be unreported cases in other provinces in Indonesia.

Ensure that you're vaccinated against polio.

• Factsheet on poliovirus types  (World Health Organization)
• Health emergencies information for Indonesia  (World Health Organization)

Periodic outbreaks of measles continue to be reported in Indonesia, including Bali.

You need 2 doses of vaccine 4 weeks apart to be fully vaccinated against measles.

If you have symptoms of measles, seek medical attention.

Measles is highly infectious. Call before attending a healthcare facility.

Nipah Virus and Yellow Fever

There are no cases of  Nipah virus  or  Yellow Fever  in Indonesia. You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw food, such as salads

To minimise the risk of food poisoning, only eat meat from reputable suppliers.

Seek urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Seafood toxins

You can become sick from naturally occurring seafood toxins, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. The dye often causes serious skin reactions.

Before you get any tattoo, check the hygiene and safety of your tattoo provider.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Indonesia is generally lower than Australia. Many regional hospitals only provide basic facilities.

Hospitals expect families to provide support to patients, including all financial support.

Psychiatric and psychological services are limited in Indonesia. Hospital staff may use physical restraints on patients.

When diving in Indonesia, there is a risk that you may experience decompression illness. An illness may occur when a diver ascends to the water surface too quickly and may have severe consequences. Understand the risks before you dive. 

Decompression chambers are available in various areas, including the following locations:

• Bali's Sanglah General Hospital
• Siloam Hospital in Labuan Bajo
• Hospitals in Jakarta, Balikpapan, Bintan, Medan, Makassar, Raja Ampat (Waisai), Maluku, Tual and Manado near popular dive sites 

Before admitting patients, hospitals usually need:

• guarantee of payment from the patient or their next of kin (family or friend)
• confirmation of medical insurance
• deposit payment 

There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Indonesia. 

The Australian Government cannot provide guarantee of payment, confirmation of medical insurance or a deposit payment for services.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Check your insurance policy before you travel. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs. It's best to check with your travel provider on the location and functionality of decompression chambers and other medical facilities available in the area before undertaking remote travel.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Indonesian Parliament has passed revisions to its criminal code, which includes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage. These revisions will not come into force until January 2026.

Indonesia has signed into law revisions to the Electronic and Information Transactions Law (ITE Law). Tough penalties apply for defamation, hate speech, spreading hoaxes and uploading immoral content to the Internet. The law applies both within and outside Indonesia.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

You may face heavy fines or jail for consuming or possessing even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana. Cannabis-based products such as cannabis oil and cream, hemp, CBD, THC, hash and edibles remain illegal in Indonesia, including for medicinal purposes. A medical prescription does not make it legal. If you take such products to Indonesia or purchase or use them in Indonesia, you can be arrested and face imprisonment, fines, deportation or the death penalty.

Some prescription medications that are available in Australia are illegal in Indonesia. Purchasing prescription medication online or over the counter in Indonesia without an Indonesian prescription is illegal. Ensure you provide a valid prescription from an Indonesian doctor before purchasing prescription medication and confirm that it's accepted by the seller before your purchase.

Magic mushrooms are illegal. Indonesian police work to prevent their distribution.

Police target illegal drug use and possession across Indonesia. Police often target popular places and venues in Bali, Lombok and Jakarta.

• Carrying or using drugs

Local labour laws can change at short notice. This can affect expatriate workers.

Under Indonesian law, you must always carry identification. For example, your:

• Australian passport; and
• Resident's Stay Permit (if applicable)

Gambling is illegal.

Property laws are strict, seek legal advice before acquiring property in Indonesia.

It's sometimes illegal to take photographs in Indonesia. Obey signs banning photography. If in doubt, get advice from local officials. See Safety .

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Indonesia. Take care not to offend.

Find out what customs apply at your destination.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal in Indonesia, except in the province of Aceh. Same-sex relationships in Aceh may attract corporal punishment. Visible displays of same sex relationships could draw unwanted attention.

Some laws and regulations can be applied in a way that discriminates against the LGBTI community, including for pornography and prostitution.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Indonesia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during this time. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence and follow the advice of local authorities.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Aceh is governed as a special territory, not a province, and has a degree of special autonomy.

Some aspects of sharia law are upheld. This includes regulations and punishments that don't apply in other parts of Indonesia.

Local sharia police enforce sharia law.

Sharia law applies to anyone in Aceh, including:

• foreigners (expats and travellers)
• non-Muslims

Sharia law doesn't allow:

• drinking alcohol
• prostitution
• same-sex relationships
• extra-marital sex
• co-habitation before marriage

It also requires a conservative standard of dress.

Learn about the laws in Aceh. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Dual citizenship

Indonesia doesn't allow dual nationality for adults, and you may be prosecuted by Immigration authorities should you be found to hold valid passports of two nationalities. If you entered Indonesia on your non-Australian citizenship passport, Indonesian Immigration will require you to exit Indonesia on that nationality's passport.

A child of Indonesian and Australian parents can maintain citizenship of both countries until the age of 18 years. Before a dual Australian-Indonesian citizen minor travels from Indonesia, additional identity documentation may be required from Indonesian Immigration. Check with Indonesian Immigration or the  Indonesian Embassy in Canberra  well in advance of your planned travel.

• Embassy and Consulate of Indonesia
• Information on limited dual citizenship
• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Bali Tourism Levy

The Bali Provincial Government has introduced a new tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to foreign tourists entering Bali. The tourist levy is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Cashless payments can be made online prior to travel or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali's airport and seaport. Exemption from payment of the levy applies to transit passengers and certain visa holders. See the Bali Provincial Government's  official website and FAQs for further information.

e-Visa on Arrival and Visa on Arrival

You can  apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)  no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia if you are travelling for tourism, business meetings, purchasing goods or transiting only. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying.

You can still apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports, seaports and land crossings, including Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Makassar, Lombok, Batam, Medan, Manado, Aceh, Padang, Tanjung Pinang and Yogyakarta, if you do not apply for an e-VOA at least 48 hours in advance of your travel to Indonesia.

The e-VOA or VOA can be used for tourism, official government duties, business meetings, or to transit through Indonesia. You cannot transit in Indonesia without an e-VOA or VOA.

Additional requirements apply if you are travelling on government duties.

For the latest list of entry points for the e-VOA or VOA, refer to the  Directorate General of Immigration's list of land border crossings, international airports, and international seaports .

The e-VOA and VOA cost IDR 500,000 (approximately $A 50), with the e-VOA charging a small online processing fee.

For the VOA, some airports, including Jakarta's international airport, are only accepting cash payment. Card payment facilities are available at Bali's international airport. ATM facilities may be in high demand. Be prepared to pay in cash if required. 

The visa is valid for a 30 day stay and can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by applying at an immigration office within Indonesia. Ensure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine and deportation.

To apply for a regular VOA, you must show:

• your ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter (we also recommend having at least 6 months passport validity from the date you plan to leave Indonesia, to avoid any issues for your departure or onward travel) 
• a return flight booking to Australia or onward flight booking to another country

Contact your travel agent, airline, or your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  for details.

Other visas

If you're entering Indonesia from a port or airport that does not issue a visa on arrival, or you're visiting Indonesia for a purpose not allowed under the e-VOA or VOA conditions, you must apply for a visa in advance of travel. Check the  Indonesian Immigration  website for further information, or contact your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia .

Overstaying your permit may result in fines, detention and/or deportation.

• check your visa and permit, and contact the Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) for advice specific to your needs
• if you use an agent to extend your visa or stay permit, use only reputable companies
• if you have specific enquiries on visas or stay permits, contact DGI's Customer Service team via WhatsApp on +62 821 1295 3298

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and entry rules.

You can't work or conduct research in Indonesia unless you have the appropriate visa. Fines of IDR1,000,000 (approx. $A 100) per day apply for the maximum 60 day overstay period.

If you breach Indonesian immigration regulations, you may face:

• deportation
• re-entry bans

You may not be allowed to enter Indonesia if you have a criminal record. This is regardless of how long ago the offence took place. If you're concerned, contact an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia before you travel.

Indonesian Immigration and visa decisions are final. The Australian Government can't help you.

• Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia

Border measures

You'll be required to complete an  e-customs declaration for arrival . You can complete this within 3 days of departure to Indonesia.

Check entry requirements with your travel provider or the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  before you travel.

You may be temperature checked on arrival at international and domestic airports. If you have fever symptoms, you may be referred to the airport clinic for further tests and asked to seek medical treatment. See your doctor or travel clinic before you travel to plan any vaccinations you need.

Other formalities

If you're staying in a private residence, not a hotel, register when you arrive with both:

• the local Rukun Tetangga Office
• local police

If you plan to be in Indonesia for more than 30 days:

• register with the local immigration office
• make sure you have the right visa
• Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra

Indonesia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave Indonesia. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. You can end up stranded or returned back to your previous port overseas at your own cost, if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months from the date you enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia.

Indonesia does not accept entry with an emergency passport, even if it is valid for more than 6 months. Ensure you enter Indonesia on a valid ordinary, official, or diplomatic passport.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply these rules inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

Damaged Passports

Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Normal wear and tear, including water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages, can be considered damaged. 

It's important that:

• there are no tears or cuts in the passport pages, especially the photo page
• everything on the photo page is legible and clear
• there are no marks across your photo or in the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) on the photo page
• no pages have been removed
• there is no alteration or tampering

If you're not sure about the condition of your passport, call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232 or contact your nearest  Australian embassy or consulate overseas . We may need to see your passport to assess it.

• Passport Services  
• Damaged and faulty passports  
• Using and protecting your passport  

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Declare cash in excess of IDR100,000,000 or equivalent when you arrive and leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

IDR100,000,000 is worth about $A10,000.

Local travel

Travel permits.

You may need a travel permit or Surat Keterangan Jalan to travel to some areas of the Papua provinces.

Check if you need a permit with the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia  or with your travel provider.

Mobile Phone Reception and Wi-Fi

Mobile phone reception and Wi-Fi are not always available, including in remote areas and some resort islands. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for more than 90 days and would like to use your mobile phone purchased overseas, you'll need to register your mobile phone IMEI number with  Indonesian Customs  within the first 60 days of your stay. 

If you plan to stay in Indonesia for less than 90 days, you can visit the local cellular operator/provider booth at the airport to get an access period to use the Indonesian cellular network, which is only valid for 90 days and includes data roaming.

A customs payment may be required, or a tourist SIM card can be purchased for short-term stays. You can use Wi-Fi networks without registration.

To stay in communication and avoid mobile service interruptions: 

• check mobile coverage with your service provider
• register your mobile device with  Indonesian Customs  on arrival if you plan to connect to the mobile network 

Driving permit

To drive in Indonesia, you need either:

• an Indonesian licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Check that your licence or permit is appropriate for the type of vehicle you're driving.

Your Australian licence isn't enough.

Your travel insurer will deny any claims you make if:

• you're unlicensed
• you don't hold the correct class of licence

Road travel

Traffic can be extremely congested.

Road users are often unpredictable or undisciplined.

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Indonesia than in Australia. Drive defensively. Some traffic incidents can escalate into violent disputes quickly.

Consider hiring a taxi or a driver who is familiar with local roads and traffic conditions.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents have killed and injured foreigners, including Australians. This includes in tourist areas, particularly Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.

If you're riding a motorbike and there's an accident, you'll often be assumed to be at fault. You may be expected to compensate all parties.

If you hire a motorbike:

• make sure your insurance policy covers you
• check if any policy restrictions apply, for example if you're not licensed to ride a motorcycle in Australia

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses, trains and the metro rail can be crowded, particularly:

• around public holidays
• during peak commute times

Safety standards may not be observed.

• Transport and getting around safely

Only use licensed official metered taxis. 

• only travel in licensed taxis with signage, a "taxi" roof sign and meters
• book via phone or an official taxi company mobile app

You can book licensed official metered taxis

• on the taxi company's official mobile app
• from inside airports
• at stands at major hotels

Unofficial operators can have taxis that look similar to those run by reputable companies. Make sure the taxi meter is working before you get into the taxi. 

See  Safety .

Rail travel

Inter-city rail networks operate on the islands of Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

Commuter trains operate in Java, including Jakarta.

Trains can be crowded, particularly:

• during peak commuter times

Travel between islands

Travel by ferry or boat can be dangerous.

Passenger and luggage limits aren't always observed.

Equipment may not be properly maintained, and they may not have GPS or emergency communications equipment.

There may not be enough life jackets. It's unlikely that the crew will have life jackets for children.

In March 2024, a ferry sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta, resulting in one death, and a liveaboard boat caught fire and sank in Raja Ampat, Papua Barat Daya, requiring several passengers to be rescued.

In August 2023, two crew died after a boat carrying passengers sank in the Banyak Islands, Aceh, and three people went missing after a ship sank in the Thousand Islands off the coast of Jakarta.

In July 2023, 15 people died after a ferry sank off Sulawesi Island.

In January 2023, 23 passengers and 6 crew were rescued after an inter-island ferry sank while returning from Nusa Penida to Sanur Beach, Bali.

In May 2022, 19 people died after a ferry sank in the Makassar Strait.

In June 2018, a ferry sank on Lake Toba in Sumatra and 100s of people died.

If you plan to travel by sea between islands:

• make sure any ferry or boat you board has appropriate safety equipment, GPS and communication equipment, and life jackets
• wear a life jacket at all times
• take enough life jackets for all children travelling with you
• ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards before you travel
• check sea, weather conditions and forecasts before embarking on boat or ferry travel, and delay travel if conditions are not safe

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Avoid travelling by water after dark unless the vessel is properly equipped. Avoid travel during wet weather or storms.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Indonesia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that have operating bans or restrictions within the EU. See the  EU list of banned airlines .

Australian travellers should make their own decisions on which airlines to travel with.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Search and rescue services

Medical emergencies and ambulance.

SMS 1717 for Jakarta Police

Police Stations in Bali

Refer to the Bali Tourism Board’s list of  police stations in Bali

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Jakarta 

Jalan Patra Kuningan Raya Kav. 1-4 Jakarta Selatan 12950

Phone: (+62 21) 2550 5555 Email: [email protected] Website: indonesia.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia X: @DubesAustralia Instagram: @KeDubesAustralia

Make an appointment online or call (+62 21) 2550 5500 or (+62 21) 2550 5555.

Australian Consulate-General, Bali

Jalan Tantular 32 Renon Denpasar Bali 80234

Phone: (+62 361) 2000 100 Email: [email protected] Website: bali.indonesia.embassy.gov.au X: @KonJenBali Instagram:  @konjenbali

Australian Consulate-General, Makassar

Wisma Kalla Lt. 7 Jalan Dr Sam Ratulangi No. 8 Makassar South Sulawesi 90125

Phone: (+62 411) 366 4100 Email: [email protected] Website: makassar.consulate.gov.au Facebook: Australian Consulate-General, Makassar, Sulawesi X: @KonJenMakassar Instagram:  @konjenmakassar

Australian Consulate-General, Surabaya

Level 3 ESA Sampoerna Center Jl. Dokter.Ir. H. Soekarno No. 198 Klampis Ngasem, Sukolilo, Surabaya

Phone: (+62 31) 9920 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: surabaya.consulate.gov.au Instagram: @KonJenSurabaya

Check the websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Indonesia travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: July 15, 2024 12:32 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, indonesia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism throughout the country.

Indonesian Papua - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to all the provinces of Indonesia Papua due to the regular occurrence of violent incidents, threats made against foreigners by militant groups and risk of kidnapping.

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• Indonesian Papua

Political tension and regular violent incidents continue to occur in Indonesian Papua.

In February 2023, militant groups threatened to attack and take hostages, specifically referencing foreigners. You may also face increased threats of violence or kidnapping if you travel to Indonesian Papua.

Labour disputes at the Freeport-McMoRan mine near Timika have led to demonstrations, public transportation disruptions and violence.

Fatal attacks have occurred on roads near the mine. Foreigners have been targeted by local militants.

There is a heightened police and military presence in this area.

There is a threat of terrorism in Indonesia.

While effective counterterrorism measures by Indonesian authorities are in place, terrorist cells are active and have the capacity to carry out attacks throughout the country.

Attacks have targeted:

• military and government facilities
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks are likely, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• long lineups at tourist attractions
• places of worship

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including metal detectors, guards and security cameras. Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and identify ways to leave the area in case of emergency
• Monitor local media
• Follow the instructions of the local authorities

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robberies, occurs regularly. Be particularly cautious on the road from Banda Aceh to Medan, where armed robberies have occurred.

Foreigners travelling alone and those travelling at night are at particular risk.

Standards of police services differ considerably from those in Canada.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• If you’re travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs throughout Indonesia, specifically in tourist areas, such as Bali and Lombok. Criminals sometimes force people to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Merchants don’t always honour pricing agreements. Use good judgment in engaging services of tourist guides, especially in places that tourists rarely visit.

There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in the provinces of Indonesian Papua and Aceh province. Foreign travellers have been kidnapped and killed. Terrorist groups have also kidnapped tourists in East and West Kalimantan.

• Be extra vigilant if travelling in these areas
• Avoid travelling alone and after dusk
• Use varied routes and schedules when moving from one place to another

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may face some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Political and social tension

There are long-standing sectarian and social tensions throughout Indonesia, particularly in the provinces of:

• Central Sulawesi, in Palu, Poso and Tentena
• Maluku, especially in Ambon

Sectarian violence targeting civilians has occurred. The potential for violence remains, despite ongoing security operations efforts from local authorities. Be aware of your surroundings.

There is a very high rate of credit and debit card fraud in Indonesia, including online fraud.

 When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Indonesia to meet someone you’ve only met online, keep it mind that you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of unsolicited emails or requests for a wire transfer.

Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Even if the wrapping or container appears intact, snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

People have died after drinking methanol-adulterated alcohol. Counterfeits of well-known alcohol brands often contain dangerous amounts of methanol. Poisoning incidents have happened at hotels, bars, and shops in tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands and Sumatra.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Be wary of lesser-known or illegal brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season.

Road travel in Indonesia can be very challenging due to:

• reckless driving
• perilous road conditions
• inadequate lighting
• poor signage
• high traffic congestion

If you plan to rent a car, consider hiring a driver.

Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads as some drivers do not use lights.

You may face mob anger if you are involved in an accident that causes serious injury. In such cases, remain in your vehicle and wait for a police officer to arrive.

Motorcycles and scooters

Motorcycle and scooter accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting many parts of Indonesia, including Bali.

Rental motorcycles are also often targeted and stolen. In such cases, you may have to pay the replacement cost for a new motorcycle.

Public transport

Public transport can be crowded and safety standards are poor. Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transportation networks.

Crashes involving overcrowded buses are common. Large buses are generally available only on Java. Minibuses are available elsewhere.

If you choose to travel by bus,

• keep in mind that minibus drivers may try to overcharge foreigners
• keep your belongings secure due to pickpocketing

The condition of taxis varies. Foreign travellers using taxis have been victims of armed robbery, either by the driver or other passengers.

• Pre-arrange transportation with a safe and reliable taxi company
• Only use a taxi company whose vehicles are equipped with a meter
• Never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
• Don’t hail taxis off the street and avoid using unmarked taxi services

Reliable taxis are available from Bluebird, Thunderbird and Express. Be careful of “lookalike” taxis from competitors.

Ferry accidents are common and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Indonesian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Indonesia and must contain at least one blank page for the placement of the Indonesian visa or entry stamp.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Social-cultural visit visa: required

Indonesia strictly enforces its immigration and visa requirements. Foreign travellers have been detained in immigration detention centres for visa violations or overstays. Those in violation may be subject to substantial fines and deportation.

A round-trip or onward airline ticket is required to obtain all types of visas.

Tourist visa

If you are travelling for tourism with a regular Canadian passport, you may obtain a visa in advance or on arrival at select points of entry.

Business and social-cultural visas

If you are travelling to Indonesia for business or social-cultural purposes (e.g. volunteer work), you must obtain a visa prior to your arrival. You must provide a letter from both the sponsoring organization in Indonesia and the sending organization in Canada to obtain your visa.

A business or social-cultural single-entry visa is extendable from within Indonesia.

Aid workers

Aid workers must have a sponsor in Indonesia to obtain a visa. Those going to Aceh also require prior authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Aceh or Jakarta.

Journalists

Journalists visiting Indonesia for reporting and filming purposes must obtain authorization from the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta before applying for a visa.

Directorate General of Immigration  – Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Indonesia

Restricted areas

You must obtain a permit to travel to Indonesian Papua.

Entry regulations and permission to remain in Indonesian  Papua may change at any time.

Other entry requirements

Starting February 14, 2024, tourists entering Bali will be subject to a new tax, the Love Bali Tourist Levy. This fee will be in addition to the visa fees paid to enter Indonesia.

If your are travelling to Bali, you must pay directly though the Provincial Government of Bali website.

Levy for Foreign Tourists – Provincial Government of Bali

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 3 July, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 2 July, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Lymphatic filariasis , also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Heath care is inadequate.

Most medical staff don’t speak English or French. You may have to pay in advance, in cash, to obtain medical services.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Overview of the criminal law system in Indonesia  

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences. They can also be detained for long periods, without the possibility of release on bail, while police conduct investigations prior to prosecution.

Police have arrested tourists after random drug testing throughout the country.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in Canada, such as those containing morphine and codeine, are classified as controlled substances in Indonesia. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the Indonesian Ministry of Health and the required documentation.

If you attempt to bring banned pharmaceuticals into Indonesia without prior authorization and proper documentation, Indonesian authorities may confiscate them. You may also be subject to fines and imprisonment.

In some areas, Islamic practices and beliefs closely adhere to local customs, laws and regulations.

Religious police enforce sharia law in Aceh. Specific applications of sharia may differ by region and apply to non-Muslims as well.

Be aware of the relevant provisions specifically related to the region, regardless of your religion.

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Indonesian national law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex. However, they are prohibited and punishable under local laws in some provinces.

In Aceh, Sharia law is enforced and sexual acts between Muslim individuals of the same sex is punished by caning. They could also face arrest under charges related to immoral behaviour, prostitution or social ills.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

2SLGBTQI+ individuals should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Indonesia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship 

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Indonesia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Indonesia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Indonesia allows minors to carry dual citizenship until the age of 18. After this time, they must choose between their Indonesian citizenship and foreign citizenship.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Indonesia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Indonesia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Indonesia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Imports and exports

Local customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary import or export of items such as audiovisual material.

Gambling is illegal in Indonesia.

Identification

You must carry adequate identification, such as your passport and your stay permit, at all times.

You may be detained and fined if you don’t have the original on you.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must carry an International Driving Permit along with your Canadian driver’s licence.

If you got your International Driving Permit outside of Indonesia, local authorities may ask to approve it.

If you’re involved in an accident, you must stop and exchange information with and provide assistance to other drivers.

• International Driving Permit registration  – Traffic Police, Government of Indonesia (in Indonesian)
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency is the rupiah (IDR).

Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of large urban centres and tourist areas.

Carry cash when visiting remote areas.

Climate change is affecting Indonesia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent. Indonesia is located in a very active seismic zone and is prone to natural disasters such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions

Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Each year, Indonesia experiences thousands of earthquakes. Some trigger tsunamis and cause significant damage. Deaths and injuries occasionally occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you're staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region's evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Indonesia has 129 active volcanoes and periodically experiences major volcanic events that can be dangerous, even life-threatening. Ash clouds can disrupt air travel, including on the island of Bali, and cause or worsen respiratory problems.

Active volcanoes are monitored to provide residents with an early warning should unusual activity occur. Local authorities can raise alert levels and order evacuations on short notice.

If you are near active volcanoes:

• take official warnings seriously and respect exclusion zones
• monitor local media to stay up-to-date on latest developments
• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
• National Disaster Management Authority
• Map of active volcanoes in Indonesia – MAGMA Indonesia

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March, but heavy rains are common throughout the year. Flooding and landslides can occur with little warning, especially in remote areas where extensive deforestation is common, but also in major cities, including Jakarta. Such incidents have led to fatalities and destruction of property.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Be aware of health risks associated with flood waters
• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts as well as road closures or detours
• Avoid disaster areas
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Air pollution

Unrestricted burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan sometimes causes air pollution to rise to unhealthy levels, especially from June to October.

Monitor air pollution levels closely, as they change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police.

Research and carry contact information for local medical facilities.

Consular assistance

Timor-Leste

There is no Canadian government office in Bali. You can obtain consular assistance from the Australian Consulate General of Australia, in Bali, under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.

Sign up to receive email updates from the Australian government on situations and events that could affect your safety while in Bali.

Smartraveller  - Australian travel advice

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Indonesia, in Jakarta, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Bali Travel Regulations, Tourist Tax & Entry Requirements

Faq, tips & must-know when coming to bali.

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Indonesia Travel Regulations, Entry Requirements and Bali Tourist Tax

Planning your trip to bali.

The following FAQ will guide you through the general regulations that apply to all INTERNATIONAL travelers

Updated Travel Regulations and Entry Requirements for Bali / Indonesia. Essential Tips to get Ready

3 essentials to prepare and have ready for your arrival in bali.

Yes, you need a Visa for traveling to Bali, unless you are a national of one of the 9 ASEAN countries or Timor Leste.

For tourists and standard visits (not working) there are two Visas available. Which Visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose and length of stay. Please click on the button below to check what applies to you.

Yes, travelers have to fill in a Customs Declaration Form when entering into Indonesia

Here is all you need to know about the Electronic Customs Declaration form for Indonesia / Bali and the official link

Customs Declaration Form  

The new tourist tax is effective since 14th February 2024 (Tourist Levy for INTERNATIONAL visitors)

• The Fee is IDR 150,000 per person (ca. USD 10 and AUD 15)
• The tourist tax (levy) is a local tax that the Bali administration government implemented. It is only related to Bali and not to Indonesia
• Be careful about Scammer sites, which mushroomed since the tax has been introduced. 

For the official tax payment link and more information on who has to pay, exemptions please click below:

Additional Important Information to Be Aware of When Planning Your Bali Trip

• Passport, needs to be valid at least 6 months from day of arrival. No exceptions, they will send you back otherwise! Make sure your passport is valid.
• The passport needs to have at least one empty page .
• The passport must be in good condition. Ripped or very run down passports might get refused. There are travelers who were denied entry into Indonesia and were sent back, because the passport was in bad condition

Passport Requirements Details

Yes you need a return ticket.

You might not have to show it at the immigration counter, but it could happen.  .

• Return ticket - airlines and also the immigration authorities can insist that you have a return ticket that is within the time-frame of your visa validity, 

Yes. This is now a MANDATORY Requirement

• Bring your international drivers license (f you wish to rent a scooter). If you don't have one and can't get it in your home country you can get a digital or printed version (delivered in Bali) here from our accredited partner in Singapore:

Order your International Driving License / Driving Permit (IDP) copy online here

Yes you can order an esim for bali online..

Our partner provides eSIM allowing you to connect to the internet quickly themoment you arrive in Indonesia. 

Order Online

If you purchase out Digital Discount Card for Bali, our BaliCard, you will get a FREE 1GB eSIM for free to test, which you can then top-up.

BALICARD & Free eSIM

A medical travel insurance is not mandatory anymore..

But it's advisable to have one. Accidents do happen in Bali and if you are not properly insured, hospitals and doctors will ask for cash payment and can deny treatment. 

Don't have a medical travel insurance?

Get your medical travel insurance for Bali / Indonesia and beyond online

International Travel Insurance / Nomad Insurance / Medical Travel Insurance for 4 weeks or longer. 

Info, Prices & Signup 

YES. Bali (Airport Denpasar DPS) is very well connected internationally.

Plenty of budget and international carriers are operating flights to Bali.

It can be significantly cheaper, depending on the season you intend to travel.

If you can't get a flight to Bali, or if it is too expensive for you, you can look into the option to book a flight to Jakarta and then take a domestic flight on the same day to Bali. Airlines such as Citilink, Batik Air, Air Asia, Lion Air, and Garuda are flying to Bali several times a day. Ticket price one way: 50-150USD.

If you choose to travel to Jakarta first, tt's good to at least have 3 or 4h difference between your arrival in Jakarta and the next flight to Bali. Because you would have to go through immigration, pick up your luggage and then go to the terminal for to catch your domestic flight. 

Don't bring more than the equivalent value of IDR 100,000,000 cash into the country (ca. AUD 10,000). Otherwise you have to declare and pay taxes.

NO. All requirements have been lifted.

As of 9th of June 2023, travelers do NOT need to show proof of vaccination anymore. However the Indonesian government "suggests" to be fully vaccinated.

Link to the official statement from the government (in Bahasa Indonesia).

More Helpful & Practical Tips

• Visa & Regulations
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Indonesia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Indonesia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio May 23, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles July 24, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Indonesia within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Indonesia, OR
• People planning to stay in Indonesia for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Indonesia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Indonesia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Indonesia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Indonesia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Indonesia poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Indonesia are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Indonesia who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Indonesia.

If rabies exposures occur while in Indonesia, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments . 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Indonesia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Indonesia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Indonesia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Indonesia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Indonesia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Indonesia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Indonesia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Indonesia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Indonesia, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Indonesia .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Indonesia.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Indonesia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Is It Safe to Travel to Bali Now?

See recent posts by Lara Grant

View of Mount Agung from Oka7 Bungalow ; Oyster 

Indonesia has been plagued by earthquakes and tsunamis over the last couple of years, with the latest tsunami striking the islands of Java and Sumatra on December 22, 2018. Additionally, occasional terrorist attacks have occurred throughout the country. So what does this mean for Bali , the spiritual, lush, and party-friendly destination that's been at the top of many bucket lists recently? 

First things first, the U.S. Department of State currently has a "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" travel advisory for Indonesia -- the same level given to countries such as Italy, Mexico, and Germany. However, this is largely for political unrest on the islands of Papua and Sulawesi, which are northeast of Bali. Unfortunately, Bali has been subject to terrorist attacks, with the most recent being the 2002 bombings that were the country's deadliest. The attacks were carried out by violent Islamist extremists in the popular tourist areas of Kuta and Denpasar, resulting in 202 deaths, 88 of which were Australians. Meanwhile, Indonesia's latest attack took place in the large city of Surabaya on the eastern side of Java in May 2018.

Hotels in this story

Distant View of Mount Agung from Living Asia Resort and Spa ; Oyster

The seemingly more pressing danger is caused by volcanic and fault line activity that results in natural disasters. In fact, Indonesia sits on the Ring of Fire, an area where the majority of the world’s earthquakes occur. Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency believes underwater landslides from the Anak Krakatau volcano is what likely led to the December 2018 tsunami that struck towns along the Sunda Strait, causing over 400 deaths. In 2018 alone, several earthquakes were felt in Lombok, an island to the east of Bali with a population of three million. In September, an earthquake and following tsunami hit Sulawesi, leading to at least 2,256 deaths.

While tremors and aftershocks have been felt in Bali, earthquakes on that island are less common. The last earthquake in Bali took place in 2004, resulting in one death. Before that, one occurred in 1979 and led to 27 fatalities. In 2017 and 2018, however, eastern Bali’s Mount Agung erupted several times, spewing smoke and ash that necessitated thousands of people to be evacuated and surrounding airports to be temporarily closed. MAGMA Indonesia posts frequent updates on volcanic activity. 

All of this is to say there’s no way to predict earthquakes, and tsunamis can only be projected after an earthquake. So the safety from earthquakes and natural disasters is no different now than from 10 years ago. 

Nusa Lembongan ; Oyster

On the plus side, several precautions can be taken when traveling to Bali and Indonesia in general. The U.K.’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against traveling within four kilometers (4.5 miles) of the Mount Agung crater in east Bali, and within seven kilometers (4.4 miles) of the Mount Sinabung crater in North Sumatra. Read up on what to do when an earthquake strikes , check for Twitter updates from Indonesia’s weather service , and heed all tsunami warnings (sirens are supposed to go off) and escape routes. 

In terms of terror-related and crime threats, take the same safety measures you would in any foreign destination: Avoid desolate areas, buy alcohol from reputable vendors and watch your drink at all times, keep valuables on or close to your body, and stick to ATMs within hotels if possible. It’s also worth noting that possession of illegal drugs is a major offense in Indonesia, and past foreigners have been jailed and executed for drugs. 

In general, though, Bali is safe in terms of crime, receiving a number 55 spot on the Global Peace Index ‘s ranking of safest countries for 2018. In comparison, the United States was placed at 121 and the United Kingdom came in at 57.

Gunung Kawi Temple ; Oyster

While we can’t say whether an earthquake or tsunami will strike Bali on your trip, it appears that the tropical paradise is no less safe than it was five, 10, and 20 years ago. So if you’re still dreaming of exploring rice terraces, ornate temples, and stunning beaches, we suggest booking that flight pronto.

You’ll Also Like:

• The 10 Safest Countries in the World
• The Best Time to Travel to Bali
• 18 Things Every Traveler Should Know Before Visiting Bali

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Home » Southeast Asia » Travel Safety

Is Indonesia Safe for Travel? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Indonesia is a must-visit country.

There are thousands of islands to explore. It has some of the world’s best snorkelling and scuba spots.

Indo’s got great food, a genuinely interesting mix of cultures and different languages, a fascinating history AND an infectiously laid back lifestyle,.

You’ll also find international quality nightlife in Bali, spot giant lizards on Komodo, chill out in the Gili Islands and get lost in the megacity that is Jakarta.

However, Indonesia is not without its darker side. When visiting, there are quite a few things to consider.

There are violent protests, religious extremists, terrorist attacks and natural disasters such as devastating earthquakes and tsunamis. Then there is the threat of volcanic eruption, some harsh laws to keep in mind, poor air quality and occasional sinking ships!

So yes Indonesia can be bloody dangerous.

But thankfully, I’m here to help you navigate the cultural pitfalls, the petty crime, scams and sometimes scary natural world of this awesome archipelago.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Indonesia Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Indonesia.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

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Is Indonesia Safe to Visit Right Now?

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Much of Indonesia is safe to travel. Around 5,889,031 tourists arrived in the country by 2022 as stated in Indonesia’s statistical report , and travellers mostly had a positive experience.

Visiting Indonesia is fantastic – it’s an amazing place.

Made up of an awesome 17,508 islands, the archipelago that makes up Indonesia would take any traveller an age to explore. It’s a cultural wonderland that is the result of the melding of different traders and conquerors throughout the ages.

However, in this country, there are some issues. There are the standard travel woes of pickpockets and scammers and some of the worst air pollution in the world.

Add to this severe social disparities between rich and poor. Oh, and then there are also violent protests and the threat of terrorism to contend with.

As if the human side of things in this vast nation wasn’t enough to deal with, there’s also nature to take into consideration here. There are many volcanoes in Indonesia like Bali’s Mount Agung (which has been simmering recently), as well as devastating earthquakes and recent tsunamis. It can be a scary prospect.

Generally, Indonesia is (or at least was) known more of a “backpacking” destination than one that’s primed for mass tourism. That said, tourism has been growing a crazy amount in this island nation – and the numbers speak for themselves.

With all this potential seeing these impressive numbers and rankings, the natural is to think, that Indonesia must be pretty safe. And whilst it generally is, learning how to travel safely is of utmost importance and relevance. Even in countries like Indonesia.

The likelihood of you coming into contact with something like a terrorist attack in Indonesia is very, very slim. You’re more likely to experience a seismic tremor.

So I’d definitely say that to answer the question of “ How safe is Indonesia to visit right now? ” would be… safe enough!

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Indonesia  so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Indonesia, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, I’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Indonesia below.

Let’s start out with the crown jewel of backpacking in Indonesia – Bali. It’s probably THE safest place in Indonesia, thanks to incredibly friendly locals and a laid-back vibe.

Although it may look tiny on the map, there are many places to stay in Bali as it’s actually quite a large island with many different areas to explore. There’s much more to it than the beaches, including terraced rice fields, hundreds of Canggu hostels , several lakes, and a couple of active volcanoes.

The buzzing digital nomad scene has triggered a whole load of coworking spaces to pop up all over the island. In the bubbly town of Pererenan is Tribal , an epic hostel and coworking spot!

Lombok is another Indonesian Island but offers a completely different vibe than Bali. While you can still do adventures like climbing the active volcano Rinjani (it’s a sketchy 2-day climb), Lombok is all about white sand beaches and relaxation.

Apart from the natural disaster threats like earthquakes, especially if you’re staying in good hostels in Lombok , it’s incredibly safe as well.

The only threat you’ll have to face in Flores is being eaten by a Komodo Dragon (which is VERY unlikely). Or, getting a sunburn while exploring the white sand beaches with its incredibly clear water. Flores might not have much to offer for adventure, but it’s the ideal getaway if you want to relax for a couple of days.

Just make sure to visit Komodo at the right time in order to make the most out of them.

Places to Avoid in Indonesia

• Jakarta – Jakarta is a GREAT city to visit and pretty safe as well. But the air quality is definitely not ideal. Smog and dust pollute the air and traffic can be horrible.
• Canggu at night (Bali) – While Backpacking in Bali is totally safe during the day, travellers, especially females, have to take care of their valuables when walking or driving around here at night.
• Active volcanos – It’s not advisable to go within 4 kilometres of the Mount Agung crater in East Bali or within 7 kilometres of Mount Sinabung in Kalo Regency, North Sumatra. Local authorities have set up these exclusion zones due to increased volcanic activity and natural disasters.
• Drugs – not a place, but definitely something to completely avoid in Indonesia. Drugs are highly illegal and possession and use will be punished with the death sentence.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Indonesia

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Just because tourism is everywhere in Indonesia, doesn’t mean that it’s always 100% safe.

To help keep yourself as safe and as secure as possible I’m sharing my best safety tips for travelling to Indonesia…

• Keep your belongings close to you and don’t walk around looking flashy  – doing otherwise could easily make you a target of crime in Indonesia.
• Blend in  – wear low-key, modest outfits, especially around religious sites and in more local areas
• Don’t leave your belongings unattended on the beach  – they can easily go missing…
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Do not go swimming when you’re intoxicated – it seems like a good idea, but things can very easily go tragically wrong
• Be culturally aware  – read up on what you should and shouldn’t do during Ramadan and Balinese New Year
• Muslims and non-Muslims have to abide by Sharia law in Aceh Province – any rules will also apply to you!
• Only use ATMs that look legitimate  – and watch your back when you’re withdrawing money
• Keep away from drugs altogether – there’s a zero-tolerance policy her, DON’T RISK IT!
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Protect yourself against mosquitoes  – there is a risk of dengue virus, amongst other things
• Know what to do in the event of volcanic or seismic activity  – Keep up to date with local authorities, on local media and with official Indonesian government news .

Indonesia is a fantastic place to go and explore but, as you can see, it’s not always the easiest place to travel around.

The potential for natural disasters and petty crime in Indonesia shouldn’t be ignored.

Volcanic eruptions or other natural disasters can occur with little to no warning. Indonesian authorities are on top of this (for the most part).

If you’re sensible with how you travel, personal safety shouldn’t be an issue- you’ll be fine.

I solo travelled to Indonesia as a teenager. It was awesome. And, I survived!

Whilst solo travel is epic, it can be daunting. I hear you, I’ve been there.

Luckily Indonesia is a pretty good place for solo travellers. It’s been known for a while as a backpacking destination. Certain islands, like Bali, are strongholds of all sorts of travellers.

Indo can be easy to travel. That said, there are still a few things you should consider…

• There are a ton of hostels and homestays spread across the islands of Indonesia. This is a good way to make friends and maybe even get yourself a travel buddy; it’s a good way to start your trip. Make sure you do your research, however, and that places are rated highly by other solo travellers.
• Ask the local friends you’ve made, your taxi driver, or the staff at your accommodation for their insider knowledge .
• Carry around only the money that you need .
• Have different ways of accessing your money . Make sure you’ve got money set aside, stashed in a day pack etc.
• Don’t get really wasted . Not only women but also men can get into dangerous situations by losing their senses and good judgement by being completely drunk.
• Keep in touch with people back home – your mum will thank you!
• Travel light .

Solo travel in Indonesia is super fun. It is definitely worth your time exploring all the islands and finding the right places for you. Still, you will have to make sure you keep your wits about you, as you’ll be the only one looking out for you.

Make sure you stay aware of local customs and laws, too, and most importantly… TRAVEL SENSIBLY! You’ll be fine.

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

An ideal hub for Digital Nomads and backpackers, this very special hostel is now finally open…

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool 😉

Is Indonesia dangerous for solo female travellers? Possibly. But generally not.

There are some important conversation topics here…

Even for female travellers, Indonesia is a fun place to travel. Solo female travellers flock to places like Bali to enjoy the beauty of the island.

In some areas of the country, you will need to pay more caution than in others. So, here are my tips for solo female travellers in Indonesia.

• Knowing what to wear , as well as where and when wearing certain clothes is appropriate, is important when you are travelling around Indonesia.
• In Aceh , for better or worse, Sharia law is in place. Women have to, by law, cover their hair with a headscarf, and cover their arms and legs.
• Horn honking and catcalling from Indonesian men does happen, unfortunately. When or if it does occur, it’s best just to ignore it and walk on.
• If someone is asking too many questions about where you’re staying, you’re itinerary or if you’re married, just lie. You don’t have to tell them the truth.
• Look up the places you will be staying at before you start out on your trip.
• Beware of drink spiking . This does happen and the best way to avoid is to keep an eye on your drink.
• There is nothing wrong at all with hiring a guide – just make sure the guide, or tour company, is well-reviewed (especially by other female travellers) and trustworthy.

Like everywhere in the world, women travelling by themselves in Indonesia are more at risk than their male counterparts. The usual rules apply, the same things you might do in your hometown anyway: trust your gut and don’t wander around at night by yourself.

Bali is one of the world’s travel hotspots at the moment. It’s a very safe island with an incredible amount of things to do and see. From stunning nature and action to white-sand beaches and digital nomad cafes, Bali a top place to visit.

Indonesia might not be the atypical destination to take your children on holiday, but why not?!

I met lots of families on my recent trip to Indonesia. It’s not always going to be straightforward though (depending on how you travel).

In fact, if you feel like dipping your toe into the diverse country of Indonesia and its myriad cultures – and want your children to be able to safely lap it all up – then Bali is a great starting point. Safety in Bali is significantly greater than in other of the country’s major cities or tourist destinations.

Here you will find a host of child-friendly facilities all across the island that will cater towards families. There are resorts and hotels in the southern part of the island and clean cafes with good food on offer.

In other parts of Indonesia, however, these kinds of child-friendly specialities are much harder to come by.

If you’re travelling with younger children, it’s best to bring some sort of carrier as opposed to a pram. This is the done thing in this part of the world anyway, plus getting a pram around on the non-existent pavements is just not going to be fun at all.

When it comes to breastfeeding, don’t do it in public, especially in more conservative places. It’s best to see what other local ladies are doing and follow suit.

Though it probably will be a challenge (unless you stay in a lovely resort or luxury accommodation in Bali ), Indonesia will be a rewarding place to travel with your children. It’s somewhere they aren’t likely to forget soon!

Indonesia can be a pretty… hair-raising place to drive.

Local drivers are not the best, the roads are not always the best, and the extreme weather that hits the islands can mean those roads only get worse – and more dangerous. Oh, and getting an international driving permit isn’t always a smooth experience.

People don’t always follow the traffic rules in Indonesia. This means that it can be a pretty stressful place to drive, especially if you have never driven in a place like this before.

Most people rent scooters or motorbikes when in Indonesia. I urge you to be careful when hiring a motorbike.

Make sure you have prior experience, know how to ride one, and that your travel insurance covers you in case of an accident. WEAR A HELMET!

Cycling in Indonesia is increasingly popular and a wonderful safer alternative.

Uber was but no longer is in operation in Indonesia. Instead, the Malaysia-founded, Singapore-based Grab moved in and got all the business.

Taxis are plentiful in Indonesia, normal to use, and are, in general, pretty safe to use. However, you should make sure that you only take journeys with a reputable taxi company; and definitely do not use unlicensed taxi drivers.

Buses come in all shapes and sizes in Indonesia. Large buses are mainly used as city transport on Java; Jakarta, for example, has a wide-reaching bus system that’s very cheap. It’s not always straightforward and can be plagued by pickpockets, so use it with caution.

Minibuses are the classic way to get around and are pretty ubiquitous. This is the mainstay for both locals and backpackers. They trundle both in and around cities, as well as between destinations. They go by many different local names, too.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Indonesia without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

I always get asked “ Is Indonesia safe for tourists? ” If you’re worried about safety the best plan of action is to watch your own back by arming yourself with some good quality Indonesian travel insurance .

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Indonesia.

What should I avoid in Indonesia?

Avoid these things in Indonesia to stay safe: – Don’t disrespect the local culture – Keep your belongings close to you and don’t walk around looking flashy – Don’t keep your phone in your hand when walking on the street – Avoid using individual ATMs on the side of the road – opt for the ones inside shops and banks

Is Indonesia safe for solo female travellers?

If you use your common sense and don’t go looking for trouble, Indonesia can be very safe for solo female travellers. Local people are genuinely friendly and welcoming. Catcalling is hardly a thing but be prepared to be stared at quite a bit. Don’t worry, this is normal and no threat at all.

Is Indonesia safe to live in?

While it’s not easy to get the right visa, living in Indonesia can be a real treat and super safe if you adapt to the local culture – known for its cheap cost of living and laid back lifestyle. Nature will be the biggest safety concern, with mosquito-carried illnesses, earthquakes and tsunami threats.

What are the laws in Indonesia?

Laws and rules in Indonesia are strict. The number one aspect to be careful of is drugs. Many backpackers indulge in the occasional spliff or dosage of party powder. THIS IS A TERRIBLE IDEA IN INDONESIA! Gambling is also illegal. Indonesia is partly a Muslim country – and some regions such as Aceh Regiosn follow Sharia Law. If you’re unsure, dress modestly and look at Indonesian law websites or even better, investigate your own country’s or Indonesia’s Official Gov Website.

How much crime is in Indonesia?

There isn’t a great threat of organised violent crime from terrorist groups. It’s mainly petty crime such as pickpocketing. When visiting Indonesia, take caution to ensure personal safety, as crime is not popular here, but far from invisible. If you are suspicious or feel unsafe, alert local authorities or Indonesian authorities immediately.

Yup, Indonesia is definitely safe , especially if you follow my travel tips. The country isn’t completely without its issues but where isn’t? Your visit to Indonesia will most probably end safely and happily and you will be excited for your return.

Indonesia is one of my favourite places I’ve ever travelled to. Don’t let safety concerns discourage you from visiting what is truly a remarkable country. Just be sure to exercise caution and keep your wits about ya!

My final recommendation is to make sure you keep up to date with relevant government advice. I’m from the UK, so I always check the gov.uk website for travel advice, Wherever you’re from, your government should have its own alternative.

If you have any more questions or comments, feel free to drop them in the comments section below.

Looking for more info on traveling to Indonesia?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Indonesia
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Indonesia travel guide!
• Take a look at my expert travel safety tips learned from 15+ years on the road

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Joe Middlehurst

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This a great blog Rose. Very nice to see information on traveling as a solo female backpacker. I hope you can come to flores and Komodo. We have the only locally woman owned dive center. As well we do Komodo Tours. I have been learning about blog writing as well…but i am now where near as good as you are …hehe. I hope you can make it to flores, please stop by our office in Labuan bajo and say hello. You can find us at komodoislandtour

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• Destinations

Tourist relief: Bali scraps controversial visa fee

Australian travellers will rejoice after the holiday favourite scrapped one of its more controversial practices.

Bali’s ‘burning man’ festival goes global

Bali looks to drastically hike entry fee

Silly mistake that cost me $500 in Bali

Australian travellers rejoice — Bali is getting ready to scrap a controversial fee in the coming months in a bid to attract more tourists.

The Visa on Arrival (VoA) is currently required to enter the country and it can be obtained at Bali Airport or online before even landing in Indonesia (e-VOA). It allows travellers to stay for 30 days, with option to extend for another 30 days, and costs about $50 (IDR 500,000).

It had previously stirred some anger amid reports that unsuspecting Australians were getting ripped off while trying to obtain the e-VOA by accidentally using unofficial sites.

The VoA was first cut in 2016, sparking a 15 per cent increase in Australian travellers heading to Bali and resulting in a new annual arrivals record of 1.2 million. However, after Covid it was brought back.

The Indonesian ministry hopes that scrapping the fee again and making travelling to the holiday hotspot cheaper for families will lure more tourists. For a family of four, this would add up to a saving of $200 – very welcome amid today’s cost of living pressures.

The Indonesian Minister for Tourism and Creative Economies Sandiaga Uno has confirmed that he would press for changes to law to bring back visa-free travel for 20 countries that visit the most, the Bali Sun reported.

Mr Uno hasn't spoken much about these changes since first talking about the idea towards the end of 2023 and in early 2024, however tourism industry experts are confident these changes will be made when the new government is sworn in.

Australia is one of 20 countries that Indonesia is proposing should have visa free entry, and it’s expected the Indonesian government will bring in the changes by October.

“We understand that Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism, Sandi Uno, will recommend that some 20 countries, including Australia, will be given visa-free entry into Indonesia, including Bali, before October when the nation’s new president is inaugurated,” Robbie Gaspar, President of the Indonesia Institute, the peak body for insight into engagement into Indonesian-Australian bilateral relations, told, the Bali Sun reported.

“This will make it cheaper for Aussie families, and we, therefore, expect to see another jump in the number of holiday-makers heading to our favourite island.”

However, tourists must not forget about paying the IDR 150,000 ($14) mandatory Bali Tourism Tax Levy fee.

Arrival numbers are rebounding in Bali – in 2023 it hosted 11.4 million visitors and following that success, it’s en route to achieving its 14 million goal this year.

According to the latest data unveiled by the Bali Central Bureau of Statistics, the influx of tourists reached 469,227 visits during March 2024 – an increase of 3.06 per cent compared to February 2024. But April was the busiest month in 2024 for Bali Airport with 1,109,958 international passengers and 830,870 domestic passengers, with May figures now set to surpass April.

More Coverage

Ross Taylor, founder of the Indonesia Institute previously told news.com.au Bali is making a very strong rebound after Covid, however warned that competition for tourists was increasing, particularly as people look for ways to save.

“Indonesia is making a ‘pre-emptive strike’ to make sure that tourist numbers for other parts of Indonesia keep increasing, and for Bali arrival numbers will at least hold at current levels,” he said.

“In 2016 when Indonesia first removed the VoA fees, we saw a 16 per cent increase in Australians heading to Bali, so the evidence does suggest that by cutting red-tape and government fees, more tourists will come.”

Tens of thousands head to Burning Man every year, but now, you can find something similar right on Australia’s doorstep.

Aussies planning a trip to the hotspot may soon have to cough up almost $100 to enter the island with arguments the current fee is “too low”.

This Aussie traveller made a mistake in Bali that saw her fined $500 – but it could have been a lot worse.

Is Bali Worth Visiting? What It’s Really Like To Travel To Bali

Do I think Bali is worth visiting? I get asked this question a lot, and if I’m honest, I really enjoyed living and travelling in Bali for six months. However, there are a number of drawbacks that can be off-putting. For example, over-tourism, pollution, and the apparent loss of culture have turned some travellers against visiting Bali.

I saw both the good and bad sides of the Island of the Gods, as Bali is often called . The good is incredible: stunning scenery, a beautiful heritage, a lively surf scene, and pastel-coloured sunsets over the ocean. However, the bad can be overwhelming with busy, dangerous roads, recent price hikes, and limited travel infrastructure.

So, the question begs, should you visit Bali or not? If you ask me, I’ll always say yes, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

In this post, I’m sharing the truth about visiting Bali—no sugarcoating. I’m telling you exactly what Bali is like to visit and including the reasons why you should and shouldn’t visit!

I’m Going On An Adventure contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. I will earn a small commission if you purchase through any qualifying links at no extra cost to you.

Do I Think Bali Is Worth Visiting?

Honestly, I love Bali and think it’s definitely worth visiting. I can’t wait to go back. However, my experience and tastes are unique, and there are just as many cons as highlights. The most vital piece of information I can give you is to understand that you won’t have paradise to yourself.

Bali has a population of over 4.3 million people . Considering the island covers an area of only 5,780 square km, that’s pretty dense. The highest population is in the south, where locals and most ex-pats have inhabited the region; there’s an estimated 30,000 ex-pats living on the island.

Due to this, South Bali has become crowded and urbanised, including popular places like Kuta, Ubud and Canggu . The region attracts higher prices, and I noticed more pollution, which is the island’s biggest negative. But the south is only one part of the island and if you’re up for an adventure, Bali is filled with natural beauty.

I enjoyed both the buzz of the south and the tranquillity of the north. One spot I absolutely loved was Amed, on the east coast. I like both busy cities and peaceful countryside and if you’re anything like me, then Bali is going to be perfect. It’s got a hip-and-happening vibe, but it’s still possible to head out into the middle of nowhere and be totally alone. This is why I still think Bali is worth visiting.

What about if you want authenticity?

I’m hearing a lot of negative chatter about Bali not being “authenic” anymore. I can kind of understand why this is circulating but I don’t agree. There are many tourist traps offering authentic expereinces that are scams, but isn’t it like this in most travel destinations?

During my time in Bali, I did a mixture of tourist tours, like the purification ceremony at Taman Beji Griya Waterfall (which I loved by the way, even though it was “touristy”) to joining a local family on their village celebrations during the Galungan festial ; which was 100% authentic.

From this experience, believe me, Bali hasn’t lost its culture; you just have to look a little deeper to find the real deal. The best way to do this is to get to know the locals. Make friends and ask them about their traditions, festivals and celebrations.

One of the most beautiful things about Bali is that around 83.5% of the population follows Balinese Hinduism , a unique religion native to the island. This makes Bali a vibrant cultural hub and a fantastic destination for culture enthusiasts.

⚠️ The most important takeaway: Don’t have unrealistic expectations. Bali is no longer a remote paradise, but it is still going to be an incredible holiday filled with adventure, beauty and excitement.

Is Bali A Good Place To Visit? The Good & Bad

Are you in a hurry? Here’s a quick summary of the positives and negatives on visiting Bali…I’ll go into more detail on each point below .

Why I loved to visit Bali

• It’s a stunning tropical island full of natural wonders.
• It can be a very affordable destination with a unique culture.
• The locals are welcoming and friendly.
• You’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches and delicious food.
• It’s also a great spot for digital nomads.
• The marine life is wonderful; the waters are filled with colourful little fishies.

Why I didn’t love to visit Bali

• The urban infrastructure is an eye-sore in many areas, and you’ll find many of the main attractions are crowded.
• Over-tourism is leading to price hikes, especially in tourist hotspots.
• Due to its popularity as a spiritual island, tourist traps and scams are common.
• The biggest issue is pollution, which is a serious concern, although there are plenty of organisations trying to combat this.
• The island is filled with ex-pats and digital nomads, which you might not like.
• It’s worth keeping in mind there are stray and malnourished animals everywhere, which can be quite upsetting.

Bali travel insurance

When exploring a paradise like Bali, you might encounter unexpected situations like medical emergencies or lost luggage. That’s why having the right travel insurance is essential. Check the best quote for Mauritania!

⭐ World Nomads offers comprehensive travel insurance for occasional travellers and high-risk sports activities that includes coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost and stolen equipment

⭐ I also use SAFETYWING to book my travel medical insurance when I’m overseas. It’s important to me to have peace of mind; I’ve had friends get rushed to the hospital, and another broke her back!

Is Bali safe?

Speaking from my own experience, Bali is a safe place to visit in terms of violent crime. The culture is naturally gentle and I have found that most common crimes are petty theft and scams. Luckily, I have never experienced this in Bali or felt unsafe at any point during my travels.

Since opportunistic crime is at its highest in Bali, the best way to avoid being targeted is to stay vigilant during your travels, never leave valuables lying around, and never wear expensive jewellery. Also, never flaunt cash, and keep an eye on the people around you.

The best time to travel to Bali

Depending on your reasons for visiting Bali, you will want to make sure you check the weather to make your trip worth it. Bali has two seasons: wet and dry.

Most people will agree that visiting Bali during the dry season is the best time. It’s true that you will get warm dry days with little to no chance of rain, great for beach holidays. However, due to this, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Bali. 

Hotels and tours are always more expensive and more likely to be booked up while popular sites are full of crowds. If you’re visiting Bali to escape the chaos you might want to consider visiting in the wet season or during the shoulder months .

What are shoulder months? Should months are the months on either side of the wet season. In the case of Bali, they fall at the end of October/November and the end of March/April.

Bali’s wet season is from November to March. Even though it sounds like it will be wet all the time, it’s unlikely it will rain all day . Most days will only see a few hours of rain and then sunshine throughout the rest of the day. 

The thunderstorms in Bali are incredible and well worth visiting the island for at this time if only to witness them!

12 Reasons You Should Visit Bali

Now you know what to expect from Bali, let’s start digging a little deeper in the top reasons why Bali is worth visiting. Obviously, there are going to be a load more reasons but I feel these are Bali’s highlights

1. The waterfalls are amazing

I love waterfalls, I mean who doesn’t? When I was living in Bali I made it my mission to visit a load of them. Luckily it was a quite period on the island, just after covid and we had most of them to ourselves, or at least, shared with few others.

This will unlikely be the same for you and although Bali is one of the best places to visit for waterfalls, keep in mind they can be busy. However, the island is absolutely full of dreamy cascades, which, even if you’re visiting Bali for a short trip , a visit has to be added to the itinerary.

There are many waterfalls to choose from but I always tried to avoid the biggest crowds. A few of my favourites included Juwuk Manis ( Google Maps – this is a really good one which sees fewer crowds), Gitgit Waterfall ( Google Map ), Aling Aling Waterfall ( Google Map ), Taman Beji Griya Waterfall ( Google Map ), and Sekumpul Waterfall ( Google Map ).

👉 Pro tip: Aling Aling Waterfall was one of our favourites, mainly because it’s possible to try cliff jumping into the natural pools and there is also natural waterfall slides. We also loved the Juwuk Manis waterfall pictured below.

2. The architecture is fascinating

One thing Bali is famous for is its architecture, especially the temples. These aren’t any old temples either, think ancient temples filled with a years of history and built on sacred ground.

The whole island is full of magnificent temples built to worship the gods, and with some being over 1,000 years old, it’s no wonder they have become huge tourist attractions! That said, Bali’s unique architecture is also stunning and distinctive, featuring intricate designs and cultural significance.

While we were in Bali, we visited so many temples that we became “templed out,” if that’s even a thing. We even skipped several in Thailand because we couldn’t bear to visit another—imagine that! However, each temple is stunning, with its own unique story.

⭐ Pro tip >> One of the most revered temples in Tanah Lot , it’s dedicated to the Sea God and has become a must-visit location, especially to witness one of Bali’s breathtaking sunsets. Another popular temple is Pura Luhur Lempuyang (alias Heavens Gate) pictured below.

3. The rice fields are impressive

Another thing Bali is known for is rice paddies. I dunno about you but it’s one of the first things that springs to mind when I think of Bali. The rice fields are part of Bali’s heritage and they definitely make the island worth visiting, if only to witness the traditional terraced fields.

Did you know that the Balinese invented a unique irrigation system, which has helped them farm their fields for centuries? Two of the main UNESCO World Heritage Sites are are Tegalalang Rice Fields ( Google Maps ) and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces ( Google Maps).

4. Bali’s culture & heritage is so interesting

The Balinese have a rich heritage and culture unique to the island . Their main religion is a mix of Hinduism and Buddhism, which can be experienced all over, from daily offerings placed along the roadside and beautiful ceremonies taking place.

Bali’s main religious celebrations are:

• Melasti – An important ritual taking place a few days before Nyepi, the “Day of Silence”.
• Nyepi – The Balinese New Year, marked by a day of complete silence when the entire island comes to a standstill.
• Galungan – Celebrates the victory of dharma (virtue) over adharma (vice), with a ten-day period when ancestral spirits visit the island.
• Kuningan – Marks the end of Galungan, when ancestral spirits return to the heavens.
• Saraswati – A day devoted to Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge and Creativity.
• Pagerwesi – Four days after Saraswati, Balinese pray to Sang Hyang Pramesti Guru to increase their spiritual strength.

🌟 There are even more religious celebrations in Bali, this article goes into more detail.

Visiting Bali during one of these ceremonies is fun and educational, especially if you can get involved in a local celebration. While we were there, we were invited to attend the Galungan Bali Ceremony with a local family who had become our friends. This was very unique experience and certainly makes Bali worth visiting!

5. The beaches are beautiful

I don’t care what people say, I think Bali has some of the best beaches in the world. I agree some of the main ones are overrated but you’ll have to leave the tourist hotspots to discover the best of Bali.

It’s a tropical island after all and there are plenty of breathtaking beaches lined with coconut palm trees and soft, fluffy sand. In certain places, the jungle comes right to the shoreline, and if you’re lucky, you can feel totally alone. 

The beaches vary, and not all are suitable for sunbathing and swimming. Decide what you want from your beach day, and then choose your beach. A few personal favourites include Bingin Beach and Nunggalan Beach in Uluwatu !

6. The surfing is top-notch

For the wannabe surfers out there, there’s no better place than Bali. Southwest Bali has the best waves for surfers, especially in Canggu & Uluwatu. There are, of course, many other areas to surf, and you can use apps such as Magic Seaweed to find the best spots to surf for your level. There are also tons of surfing schools lining the beaches, so go ahead and take a lesson!

⭐ Pro tip >> One of the best places to learn to surf is Medewi. We spent a week or so here practicing our surfing. It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination which attracts surfers and those looking for a more authentic laidback vibe than south Bali. We really enjoyed Medewi and have written a visitors guide here.

7. The yoga & meditation is spot on

One of my top reasons for visiting Bali was that I wanted to improve my yoga practice. Bali is literally a spiritual haven for many people who are looking to do the same and I met wonderful people while experimenting with different styles of yoga.

The island attracts yogis in their thousands and places like Ubud have become known for its hippie yogi vibe. Where I was in Canggu, there was a yoga studio in every neighbourhood. You’ll find plenty of workshops, yoga courses, breath work, and meditation classes to join.

⭐ Pro tip >> I really enjoyed the teachers and classes at Samadi Yoga & Wellness Center ( Google Maps ), and highly recommend this studio; however, I also tried a few others in Bali such as The Practice ( Google Maps ) and Guan Yin Yoga Shala ( Google Maps) which were also worth visiting.

8. Snorkelling & scuba is unbelievable

The north and east coast of Bali (such as Pemuteran and the wonderful shore around Amed ) are the best for snorkelling and diving . The waters surrounding the island have some of the highest marine biodiversity in the world, and it’s truly a wonder to dive into this marine environment. 

Bali is a great place to learn to scuba dive if you haven’t already. You could even try a DISCOVER Scuba before committing to a course. Many companies offer accredited PADI diving certificates, and since Bali is an affordable country you’ll be able to find a great deal ! 

⭐ Pro tip >> Since I LOVE the ocean and had a great time splashing around. I wanted you to have the best memories of your Bali holiday, too. Therefore, I’ve put together the ULTIMATE guide to snorkelling tours in Bali .

9. The volcanoes are mighty

Bali and it’s volcanoes are something else. The Indonesian islands are literally over a hotspot and the whole country is made of thousands of island chains created by volcanic eruptions over millions of years.

I think volcanoes are some of the most incredible natural wonders in this world, and being able to climb them is an opportunity not everyone gets, so I feel privileged to have the opportunity .

Bali’s most popular volcano for climbing is Mount Batur, but the tallest is Mount Agung – both can be climbed, although the latter will take a multi-day hike and is more challenging. They are both stupendous!

👉 Related Post: Mt. Batur is the easiest to climb and can be visited during a day tour. Usually, a Mount Batur sunrise hike is the best option, and it’s a beautiful way to experience a Bali sunrise over the island. 

10. Island hopping is bliss

Bali is, after all, an island, and where there is one, there is usually more! There are a few smaller islands close to Bali, such as the Nusa Islands and the Gili Islands. The next islands over from Bali are Lombok to the east and Java to the west.

I highly recommend planning a visit to the smaller Nusa islands or Gili islands to your itinerary as they are stunning. If you want to experience more of Indonesia, you should consider island hopping to Lombok, too. I really enjoyed Lombok ; it has a different vibe to Bali but it’s less developed and more rural.

👉 Related Post: I visited a few places in Indonesia. A few of my favourites were Nusa Lembongan and Bukit Lawang in North Sumatra . I also went to Komodo National Park near the island of Flores.

11. Perfect landscape for jungle expeditions

Ever wanted to hike through a jungle ? In Bali, you can! I’ll admit it’s not for everyone, and you’ll want to make sure you have a local guide, the right equipment, and plenty of bug spray. But the views can be especially rewarding, and you’re bound to see lots of wildlife.

12. The sunsets are breathtaking

I finish on sunsets, and Bali sunsets, in particular, can be magical and totally makes the island worth visiting. I reckon some people visit Bali just to capture those pastel skies, and with luck, you’ll get to witness one of the most stunning sunsets of your life too. 

You’ll need to get the best view to enjoy it, the beaches are popular but you’ll need to be on the west side of the Island. Canggu and Uluwatu are good spots, many people gather on the beaches. If you don’t fancy the beach, there are plenty of sunset bars dotted around the island; our favourite is Ulu Cliffhouse .

8 Reasons Bali Isn’t Worth Visiting

I wanted to share both the positive and negative reasons for visiting Bali. So, here are the main things I noticed when living in Bali that were drawbacks and the reasons why Bali might not be worth visiting.

13. Infrastructure is taking over rice fields

As Bali’s tourism grows, the island’s iconic rice fields are increasingly being replaced by modern infrastructure like hotels, resorts, and shopping malls. This development has led to a significant loss of Bali’s natural beauty which is central to its charm and uniqueness.

I noticed this happening a lot in Canggu, as this is where I was based, but it’s throughout the island.

That said, the expansion of infrastructure is like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it drives economic growth and provides jobs for locals, supporting the island’s economy and improving living standards. On the other hand, this rapid development threatens the very landscapes and traditions that make Bali special.

The challenge lies in finding a balance between economic development and environmental preservation.

14. Despite all the development, Bali still has dangerous roads and chaotic traffic.

Despite all the development, it seems most of the money is spent on building hotels and resorts rather than improving the roads and fixing the congestion. The roads are poorly maintained, with large chunks of tarmac or bricks missing, tons of potholes, and loads of half built gravel tracks. It can be very dangerous, especially on a scooter.

Traffic is terrible in areas like Canggu and Seminyak, and the once fresh, clean air now becomes thick with pollution . Rush hour isn’t a pleasant time to be in Bali!

I remember being stuck in traffic once, watching in disbelief as scooters swerved onto the pavement, weaving around vehicles to get ahead. It was pure madness! Eventually, I even found myself joining the flow of scooters just to avoid being stuck behind a never-ending line of smoking exhausts.

15. Over-tourism and crowding

Bali sees millions of tourists every year, which brings several challenges, especially since waste management and travel infrastructure are not always well-equipped to handle the influx.

Many of the island’s natural wonders have become so popular that they are often overrun with visitors, which can compromise their natural beauty and serenity.

Popular spots like Kuta Beach, the Uluwatu Temple, and the Monkey Forest in Ubud, can feel overcrowded and commercialised. Here, you’re going to find overpriced souvenirs, crowded streets, and experiences that cater more to tourists than to those seeking genuine local culture.

If you want a more peaceful and secluded experience, I suggest venturing off the beaten path. Head to the north of the island, away from the bustling southern tip, and you’ll discover hidden treasures and tranquil spots that offer a more authentic and serene Bali experience.

But don’t let this deter you from visiting Bali . With some careful planning and insider knowledge, you can still uncover Bali’s authentic side.

16. The o verpricing can be ridiculous

Despite being an extremely affordable place to live and travel , Bali can end up being an expensive island, especially in tourist hotspots. You should be prepared to pay more for food, accommodation, and other amenities in these areas if you’re taking a lavish holiday. It’s also really easy to go over budget in some of the more swanky establishments.

That said, Bali on a budget is totally doable. One of the best ways to keep costs down during your trip to Bali is to rent a scooter to get around instead of using a taxi. This will also give you the freedom to visit other areas in Bali and make your trip worth it.

17. Scams are becoming increasingly popular

You need to be aware of this! Keep an eye out for potential scams, particularly when it comes to money. Fake tours and ATM scams are common on the island. Do your research and exercise caution before handing over any cash.

18. Pollution is everywhere

Bali is grappling with a serious pollution problem, which originates from the lack of education and government involvement in managing and disposing of rubbish. Even the island’s most stunning locations can be spoiled by litter. You should try and be mindful of your environmental impact to help preserve Bali’s natural beauty.

I remember driving down a road and seeing trash being burnt on the side because there is no proper waste management. Piles of trash are everywhere, and many beaches aren’t pristine due to plastic pollution washing up on the shore. The island’s perfect vibe can be ruined by this, although it’s not everywhere. With some effort, we can all contribute to keeping Bali beautiful.

There are charities and groups working hard to educate and clean up Bali. Some of which you can get involved in, including beach and river clean-ups. Sungai Watch is a great organisation to contact if you want to volunteer for the day.

19. Ex-pats & digi nomads galore

Bali has become a popular destination for digital nomads and expats, leading to a vibrant social scene in some areas. However, this can also make the island feel crowded and busy, particularly in popular tourist areas and it might not be the atmosphere than you want when heading to Bali.

20. The strays are heartbreaking

Bali’s stray dog population is a heartbreaking issue that you need to be aware of. These dogs are often in poor health, and the island’s cultural attitudes towards animals can be distressing for animal lovers. Be careful around stray dogs and be mindful of your own safety.

OVERALL…

I mention these drawbacks only to inform you but not to deter you from visiting. I’m sticking to my guns and still love Bali . I had an incredible time living there, and everyone I’ve spoken to since has said how much they loved it. So, Bali is still worth visiting.

Should You Visit Bali FAQs

Is Bali good for tourists?

Bali is good for tourists as it is highly tourist-oriented and accommodating. It’s also a relatively safe destination with helpful and welcoming locals.

The presence of numerous digital nomads and tourists can make Bali feel more familiar and less intimidating compared to more remote destinations. Keep in mind, the rest of the islands in Indonesia are not as developed and offer a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

How many days do you need to enjoy Bali?

It is not uncommon to make a quick stop in Bali during a backpacking trip around southeast Asia, in truth, Bali is usually on everyone’s itinerary. It’s also a very popular holiday destination.

• Backpacking trip – 5 days
• Beach holiday & Bali culture – 14 days
• Adventure holiday – 3 weeks
• Road trip in Bali – 4 weeks

👉 Related Post: Are you thinking of visiting Bali for a few weeks? I’ve put together the ultimate 3 weeks in Bali adventure itinerary for those of you that love a thrill-seeking holiday.

Should I go to Thailand or Bali?

I love both Thailand and Bali (and Indonesia), but I prefer Thailand overall . The main reason is the pollution in Indonesia, which was quite bad. Additionally, Thailand has had more time to develop its tourism industry and offers a wider range of activities and climates due to its larger size.

Thailand’s infrastructure makes it incredibly easy to travel around, and the affordability is still very reasonable. The country has a similar Buddhist culture and traditional Thai charm, which I enjoyed. I noticed that since my visit 15 years ago, Thailand has cleaned up and developed in a very positive way.

The Verdict | Is Bali Really Worth Visiting?

By now, it’s probably safe to say that Bali isn’t the place to go if you want an untouched beach holiday. But it’s also clear that Bali is still worth visiting. Okay, so you won’t have paradise to yourself, but you will still get an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trust me.

Bali is worth visiting, you just need to know where to go and what to do to make it your perfect holiday. There are still places in Bali, off-the-beaten-path where you don’t have to share your sunset with crowds or waterfalls with hordes of people. 

You can also plan your visit during less popular times and go to the less visited attractions and sites. Bali is still full of wonderful districts which see fewer tourists, and if that fails, check out the rest of the country – it will be similar to Bali after all!

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Come and join our socials and keep up to date with the latest adventures. Find the latest travel photos and blog updates, ask questions and get travel inspiration. ✔️ FIND ON INSTAGRAM ✔️ JOIN US ON FACEBOOK

Abigail Dalton is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure, a blog which helps travellers find unique destinations worldwide. She focuses on offbeat travel and road trips, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect trips and make the best memories. She also helps travellers plan their dream holidays with bespoke travel services where she creates fun-packed itineraries. When she isn't writing about her travels you'll find her on long country walks foraging for mushrooms or enjoying a cool fruity white under the sun, toes tucked in the sand.

Best & Worst Times to Visit Bali 2024 (First-Timer Guide)

The best times to visit Bali are May, June, September, and October during its dry season. During these months, there are fewer tourists, allowing you to relish the sunny beaches, clear skies, and pristine islands to the fullest.

With a tropical climate, Bali experiences a consistently warm climate throughout the year. Its daytime temperatures are around 30°C (86°F). There are mainly two seasons there: the dry season ((April to October) and the rainy season (November to March). see below some key facts on Bali weather/climate:

• Dry season : April to October
• Rainy season : November to March
• Hottest month : May
• High season : May to September

When Are the Best Months to Go to Bali?

Undoubtedly, the best time to visit Bali is April to October for a sun-soaked vacation. During this period, we've thoughtfully singled out the best months for popular activities and travel themes.

• For a romantic getaway in Bali : the best times to visit Bali are late April to mid-June and late August to early October for fewer peak season crowds.
• For family trips: the island's best weather time (April to October) lines up perfectly with kids' spring break and summer vacations. To avoid local holidaymakers, you're suggested to take your family trip in April, June, or August.
• For water fun : If you seek minimal rainfall and calm seas for water fun, you're suggested to travel to Bali between June and September.

Insider tips: As Bali experiences its peak season during these times, you're suggested to make your bookings at least 3 months in advance, particularly for hotels with great views or family rooms.

Feeling overwhelmed by planning logistics? Just share your interests and we'll customize a hassle-free Bali trip for you in 24 hours!

Check our itineraries of Bali for 10 days .

The Worst Time to Visit Bali

The rainy season (November to March) seems to be the worst time to visit , particularly the rainiest month, January. So for sun seekers with flexible schedules, avoid this period or go to sunbathing island destinations, like Thailand , Vietnam , and the Philippines.

Rainfalls are occurring every 2 or 3 days during these months. The sky may be overcast. It is very humid on the beaches.

However, if your travel date is fixed, traveling in the rainy season still brings benefits: the lowest costs along with the smallest crowds .

Tips to Make "Worst Time" a Better Experience

• Consider late March and early November : They are perfect for enjoying a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower costs.
• Staying on the east coast : consider places like Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, is helpful to get drier experiences too.
• Indulge in indoor activities : such as yoga classes, cooking classes, and hands-on experiences in local workshops.
• Travel with a flexible private Bali tou r ( which we provide ): You can maximize the sunny intervals and easily adapt to short-lived afternoon downpours with minimal hassle.

Temperature and Rainfall in Bali

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Bali in January: Wettest Month, The Most Affordable Month

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F)
• Weather : warm/hot, humid, stormy, averaging 27 rainy days, very high rainfall
• Recommended 2024 festival : Gulungan, Bali's most important Hindu festival celebrates ancestral spirits visiting in a great cultural event every 210 days.

January weather conditions may be the worst of the year, but Bali is still warm/hot, and the rain can even offer respite from the heat when it comes as afternoon downpours.

This is the month for finding the best deals on hotels and flights . You'll find uncrowded temples and plenty of space on the beaches. The exception is January 1st to 6th when there are New Year vacationers.

It is not the time for diving, snorkeling, etc. or island hopping, but if you are content to grab some rays when you can on the beach and bring waterproofs/umbrellas for any time in the jungle or on the rice terraces, you could make Bali in January an enjoyable and economical trip.

Bali in February: Wet, Low Prices

• Weather : some downpours, humid, averaging 22 rainy days, high rainfall

Though better than January, February is still an off-season month, featuring regular heavy rain, but low prices and low visitor numbers at top sights...

You could enjoy a peaceful holiday in this month , with some dry hours on the beach on most days , if you're prepared to take it easy, dodge the rain, and spend more time indoors.

Avoid diving and other ocean activities due to poor visibility underwater and strong currents . Rough seas mean ferry crossings aren't recommended. Visibility on Mount Batur is often poor and long hikes are not recommended.

Read more about How to Plan a Trip to Bali >>>

Bali in March: Great Deals and Feww Crowds

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F)
• Weather : some downpours, humid, averaging 20 rainy days, high rainfall

March is still a wet month in Bali, especially in the first half of the month. It starts to get a little warmer and the showers start to peter out at the end of March.

Enjoy low prices and longer gaps between rain . Diving's still out, and hiking's still not recommended. Taking (morning) opportunities to see the scenery and enjoy the beaches, reserving temple visits and other indoor activities for when the rain comes is advised.

Bali in April: Outdoor Adventures Firmly Back

• Average temperature range : 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F)
• Weather : hottest month, but less humid, 9 rainy days, low rainfall

April is the hottest month in Bali . It is not unusual for temperatures to exceed 30°C (95°F) all day, and nights often stay in the high 20s Celsius (the 80s Fahrenheit)!

For beach lovers, hikers, divers… you are almost guaranteed some blue sky days and clear seas , but there will still be some rain on about 1 day in 3.

Bali is busy around Easter , but the rest of the month is a shoulder season time. Staying in a lovely beach resort with air-con in the April shoulder season offers a compromise between economy and the absolute best weather.

Get inspired in Private Bali Tours and make your booking at least three months in advance for affordable price.

Bali in May: Good for Island Hopping

• Weather : hot/warm, pleasant, averaging 8 rainy days, low rainfall

May offers good conditions for Bali's activities, from island hopping to jungle swinging, with minimal chance of disruption.

In May, the shoulder season continues. It's a little cooler and drier than April, so better weather with similar prices.

Bali in June: Fine Weather

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/ocean, averaging 6 rainy days, low rainfall
• Recommended yearly festival : Bali Arts Festival (always mid-June–mid-July) in Denpasar offers a colorful journey into the world of Bali art.

June has lots of sunshine and balmy temperatures. It does not feel humid. This is an ideal month for all the island's outdoor activities .

June is the end of the shoulder season and the peak tourism season will arrive at the end of June. Be prepared for full hotels and full prices. Booking early is recommended.

Bali in July: Great Island Conditions

• Average temperature range : 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, just 4 rainy days, low rainfall
• Recommended yearly festivals : Bali Arts Festival (always mid-June–mid-July) in Denpasar is a great opportunity to see local costumes, dances, and displays. Bali Kite Festival is also held through July at Sanur Beach, south Bali.

Enjoy great conditions for tropical relaxation and adventure. You could even plan to climb Mount Batur , Bali's iconic volcano with a lake, with only a slim chance of any significant rain. Sunrise treks with high visibility are a highlight of Bali's dry season .

Tourism comes to a peak in July and prices for accommodation reach their highest. It is best to book accommodation early (at least three months in advance) to avoid extra cost or hotels being fully booked.

Check how to plan a trip to Singapore and Bali >>>

Bali in August: Best Month Weatherwise

• Average temperature range : 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, just 4 rainy days, very low rainfall
• Recommended festival : Indonesian Independence Day on August 17 has parades and other outdoor festivities.

August is the peak month for traveling to Bali. Virtually no rain means travel plans can be made with certainty and the best of snorkeling etc. conditions can be enjoyed.

Get your rooms and tours booked early, whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a tropical family vacation, or a well-earned treat to boost your wellness for the rest of the year.

Read more about Bali Honeymoon Trip Plan: Sample Itinerary, Romantic Experiences >>>

Bali in September: More Balmy Weather

• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, 8 rainy days, low rainfall

Tourism starts to drop off a bit after August, and September is considered a shoulder month (mainly as it's the back-to-school month for many nations).

Though there is a little more rain, it's still not significant. If you can visit in September, it should be good conditions for less money.

Bali in October: End of the Dry Season

• Weather : heat/humidity builds, showers more often, ~12 rainy days, low rainfall

Bali experiences increasing rainfall towards the end of October, making it another month where deals can be had, as hotels try to fill rooms as demand drops.

In general, October is good value for money. It is your last chance to enjoy diving in Bali before the rainy season sets in and the ocean clouds up.

Bali in November: Off Season Starts

• Weather : hot/humid, a few downpours, averaging 16 rainy days, moderate rainfall

The sea in Bali is noticeably rougher during November, which is not good for water activities , though rainfall doesn't reach high amounts yet, so you might still get a day's hiking in carrying waterproofs.

November is definitely in the off season, but there are still plenty of things that you can do.

Bali in December: Rainy Season in Full Swing

• Weather : hot/warm, some downpours, averaging 22 rainy days, high rainfall

Although the wet season means some things like diving and mountain hikes are off the cards, you could still dodge the rain for sunny spells on the beach and yoga in the jungle. Enjoy delicious Balinese food indoors and its cultural attractions while you wait for the rain to stop.

Further north in SE Asia, the weather is much better. See The Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Though low season, some tourists still come to Bali, particularly in late December as there are Christmas and southern hemisphere summer holidays, bringing up prices a little.

Plan Your Bali Vacation with Us

Discover Bali through our unique tours, with award-winning guides and with 1:1 help from a dedicated Bali expert every step of the way.

Tell us your interests and needs , and we will create a wonderful trip for you. We are ready to show you the authentic and blissful highlights of Bali, whatever time you visit.

Here are some itineraries you might like to start from:

• 7-Day Private Bali Natural & Cultural Immersion
• 12-Day Romantic Bali & Java Honeymoon
• 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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Indonesia raises concerns on overtourism in Bali

Authorities fear anti-tourist protests if curbs are not set in place.

Indonesian authorities expressed concerns that Bali may be at risk for overcrowding in light of the recent boom in island tourism.

Sandiaga Uno, minister for tourism and creative economies, pointed out the recent anti-tourist protests in Barcelona as an example of what could happen to the island destination if curbs are not set in place.

At a recent press conference in Jakarta, Uno said: “Tourism is one of the economic drivers in Bali, [but] things like those protests should not happen there. If people feel uncomfortable with the presence of tourists, bad excesses emerge.”

Mounting concerns

Concerns raised by numerous tourism leaders and political figures in Bali were what prompted Uno’s statement. In recent months, locals worry that mass tourism could lead to a backlash against foreign travellers.

In recent weeks, foreign tourists were found guilty of  violating immigration laws and breaking local customs in Bali. As a result, more than 130 foreigners were deported from Bali since the beginning of the year and over 300 were deported in 2023.

To curb wrongdoing among tourists, island authorities imposed a 150,000-rupiah (US$10) tourist tax. However, stronger measures may be deemed necessary.

When The World’s Favorite Destinations Say “Enough!”: How Barcelona, Amsterdam,…

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Batik Air under investigation after Australian Transport Safety Bureau says it flew below minimum altitude on flight to Canberra from Bali

The inaugural Batik Air flight from Bali to Canberra is being investigated after the ATSB said it had come in "below minimum altitude".

The ATSB described is as a "serious incident".

What's next?

The bureau said it expects to complete its investigation in the last three months of this year.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the inaugural Batik Air flight into Canberra Airport over what it said was a breach of air safety rules.

The airline was holding an event at the airport on June 14, attended by dignitaries including the Indonesian Ambassador, when its first commercial flight from Bali landed an hour early.

The ATSB said as the Boeing 737-800 approached the airport, about 19 kilometres south of the runway, the crew of the aircraft elected to hold at a designated waypoint in the air.

"During the holding, the aircraft was operated below the minimum holding altitude," an ATSB statement said.

A waypoint is a computer-checked coordinate at each stage of a flight.

The investigator has described it as a "serious incident", and has launched an investigation.

No injuries have been associated with the incident.

The ATSB said it had already interviewed the flight crew and air traffic controller, analysed recorded flight data and air traffic surveillance data and examined pilot and operational records.

"Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken," the ATSB said.

The ATSB expects to complete its investigation in the last three months of this year, and its report will be released to the public.

Batik's flights on June 14 marked the first direct flights from Canberra to Bali.

The airline committed to operating three flights a week between the cities, with the ACT Chief Minister saying at the launch he hoped that number might rise to five.

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