Indonesia Travel Guide: Your Key to Authentic Local Experiences

Planning your first trip to Indonesia? We've got you covered! This essential Indonesia travel guide is designed for first-time visitors looking for trusted tips and local insights to make your journey smooth and unforgettable, ensuring you enjoy authentic local experiences throughout.

Visa Requirements

As of 2025, Indonesia offers several visa options depending on your nationality:

Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of selected countries can enter visa-free for up to 30 days (non-extendable). Check if your country is eligible.
Visa on Arrival (VoA): Available for many nationalities. Costs approx. 500,000 IDR (~$32 USD) and is valid for 30 days, extendable once.
e-Visa: For longer stays or business travel, apply online through the Indonesian Immigration Portal.

👉 Tip: Always check the latest visa rules before flying as policies may change.

Currency & Money Tips

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas. Most charge a small fee.
Cards vs. Cash: Cash is king in smaller towns. Use cards at hotels, restaurants, and shops in Bali and Jakarta.
Exchange: Bring USD, EUR, or AUD for the best exchange rates. Use official money changers (avoid street vendors).

👉 Tip: Avoid carrying large bills and always count your change.

Getting Around Indonesia

Indonesia is a vast country made up of islands, so transport options vary. Explore authentic local experiences by trying various modes of travel, from domestic flights to scooters.

Domestic Flights

Best way to travel between islands (e.g., Bali to Java, Java to Komodo).
Airlines: Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Lion Air, Batik Air.

Local Travel

Taxis: Blue Bird is reliable in major cities.
Ride Apps: Gojek and Grab are popular for motorbikes and cars.
Scooter Rentals: Common in Bali and Lombok, but only if you're confident in traffic!
Boats/Ferries: Used for island hopping in Flores, Lombok, and Komodo.

👉 Tip: Book domestic flights and ferries in advance during peak season (June–September).

Best Time to Visit Indonesia

Indonesia has a tropical climate with two main seasons:

Dry Season: May to September – Ideal for beach vacations, diving, and trekking.
Rainy Season: October to April – Expect short, heavy rain, especially in the afternoon.

Best Months: June to August for sunny weather and festivals.
Quiet & Green: March, April, or October for fewer crowds and lush scenery.

What to Wear in Indonesia

Indonesia is generally hot and humid year-round, but cultural norms vary:

Light, breathable clothing (linen or cotton)
Modest attire in temples and rural areas (cover shoulders and knees)
Swimwear is fine at beaches but not in public streets
Sarongs are often required at religious sites (available for rent or loan)

👉 Tip: Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

Internet & SIM Cards

Local SIM cards (like Telkomsel or XL) offer cheap data plans.
Buy one at the airport or convenience stores (with passport).
Pocket Wi-Fi is also an option for groups or multiple devices.
👉 Tip: Use WhatsApp for messaging—it's widely used in Indonesia.

Health & Hygiene

Tap water is not drinkable – always use bottled or filtered water.
Bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes—especially when eating street food.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for medical emergencies or trip changes.
👉 Tip: Visit a travel clinic before your trip for any required vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid).

Bonus Tips for First-Timers

Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the national language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Safety: Indonesia is generally safe, but always watch valuables and avoid walking alone at night in remote areas.
Tipping: Not required but appreciated (5–10% in restaurants is common).
Plug type: Type C & F, 230V – bring a universal adapter.