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The Ultimate Indonesia Travel Cheat Sheet for 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Ultimate 2025 Indonesia travel cheat sheet with insider tips on budgeting, transportation, cultural etiquette, and hidden gems. Learn from my mistakes to save money and experience authentic Indonesia beyond the tourist traps.

Introduction: Why Indonesia Stole My Heart

The first time I landed at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), I was completely overwhelmed. The humidity hit me like a wall, my pre-arranged taxi never showed up, and I accidentally paid 300,000 rupiah (about $20) for what should have been a 100,000 rupiah ride to my hotel. Fast forward seven visits later, and Indonesia has become my second home. The chaotic beauty of Jakarta, the spiritual calm of Bali’s rice terraces, and the untouched paradise of the Maluku Islands have all left indelible marks on my soul.

This cheat sheet is everything I wish someone had told me before my first trip. It’s not the glossy tourist board version—it’s the real, sometimes messy, always magical Indonesia that I’ve come to love. From navigating transportation nightmares to finding authentic local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) where a delicious meal costs under $2, I’m sharing all my hard-earned knowledge so your Indonesia adventure can be even better than mine.

Essential Pre-Trip Planning for Indonesia

Visa Requirements for 2025

Indonesia’s visa policies have changed significantly since the pandemic. As of 2025, most Western tourists can enjoy a 30-day visa-free entry, but if you’re planning to stay longer, you’ll need to arrange a visa in advance or pay for an extension in-country. I once had to cut a trip to Raja Ampat short because I miscalculated my visa days—don’t make my mistake!

  • Visa-free entry: 30 days, non-extendable (for 169 countries including US, UK, Australia, and most EU countries)
  • Visa on Arrival: 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days (costs Rp 500,000 or about $32)
  • e-Visa: Apply online at Indonesia’s Immigration website at least 7 days before travel

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: If you know you’ll stay between 30-60 days, get the Visa on Arrival rather than visa-free entry. Extending in-country costs less than flying out and back in on a “visa run” as many travelers attempt.

Best Time to Visit Different Regions

Indonesia’s climate varies dramatically across its 17,000+ islands. I’ve been caught in monsoonal downpours in Sumatra that lasted for days, while just a few hundred kilometers away in Bali, the sun was shining.

Region Dry Season Wet Season My Recommendation
Bali, Lombok, Java April to October November to March May-June (good weather, fewer tourists)
Sumatra, Kalimantan May to September October to April June (optimal for orangutan spotting)
Sulawesi, Maluku August to October November to July September (perfect diving conditions)
Papua October to April May to September March (tribal festivals)

The smell of rain on hot pavement in Jakarta is something I’ll never forget—it’s this earthy, tropical scent that signals a brief respite from the heat. But trust me, you don’t want to be caught in a Jakarta flood when the canals overflow during January downpours.

Packing Essentials for Indonesia’s Diverse Climate

After forgetting essentials multiple times, I’ve perfected my Indonesia packing list. The humidity means you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing, but also be prepared for air conditioning that’s often set to arctic levels.

  • Clothing: Lightweight, modest clothing (especially for temple visits); rain jacket; one light sweater for A/C
  • Footwear: Comfortable sandals; closed walking shoes; flip-flops for questionable showers
  • Health: Reef-safe sunscreen; mosquito repellent; probiotics; activated charcoal (my savior for mild food poisoning)
  • Tech: Universal adapter (Indonesia uses Type C, F, and G plugs); portable battery pack (power outages are common outside major cities)
  • Documents: Multiple copies of passport; international driver’s permit if planning to rent a scooter

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Don’t waste luggage space on toiletries beyond the essentials. Indonesian mini-markets like Indomaret and Alfamart sell everything from shampoo to sunscreen at a fraction of Western prices.

Navigating Indonesia’s Transportation Systems

Airport Arrival Strategies

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta has improved dramatically since my first visit. Terminal 3 is now world-class, though Terminals 1 and 2 can still be overwhelming. Here’s how to make your arrival smoother:

  1. Pre-arrange transport: Use BlueBird Taxi’s official app or book an airport pickup through your accommodation
  2. SIM card: Purchase directly at the airport from booths like Telkomsel or XL Axiata (I pay about Rp 150,000 or $10 for 15GB valid for 30 days)
  3. Money exchange: Skip airport exchangers with their poor rates. Withdraw directly from ATMs (CIMB Niaga or BCA have the lowest fees) located past customs
  4. Airport train: The newest option connects directly to Jakarta’s city center for Rp 70,000 ($4.50)

Island-Hopping Transportation Guide

With over 17,000 islands, getting around Indonesia can be complicated. I once spent three days traveling from Flores to Sulawesi, using a combination of ojeks (motorcycle taxis), ferries, and propeller planes that looked older than me.

Domestic Flights

For long distances, flying is essential. Indonesian carriers I trust include:

  • Garuda Indonesia: Most expensive but safest with best service
  • Batik Air: Good middle-ground option
  • Lion Air/Wings Air: Budget option, often delayed but extensive network
  • Citilink: Garuda’s budget subsidiary, reliable for major routes

Book domestic flights through Traveloka or Tiket.com for better prices than international booking sites.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: Domestic flights are significantly cheaper when booked from within Indonesia. I’ve saved up to 40% by waiting until I arrived to book internal flights using local booking sites with a VPN set to Indonesia.

Ferries and Boats

For neighboring islands, boats range from luxury cruises to wooden fishing vessels. The main options are:

  • PELNI ships: Government-operated large ferries connecting major islands (official schedule)
  • Fast boats: Private operators for popular routes (Bali-Gili-Lombok)
  • Local wooden boats: For short hops between nearby islands

I’ll never forget crossing from Lombok to Sumbawa on a ferry packed with livestock, motorcycles, and entire families sleeping on mats. The captain invited me to the bridge, where we shared sweet tea while he navigated by the stars and his intimate knowledge of the waters.

Land Transportation

Within islands, your options include:

  • Ride-hailing apps: Gojek and Grab work in major cities (both motorcycle and car options)
  • Rental scooters: Rp 50,000-100,000/day ($3-6) – require international driver’s permit
  • Trans-island buses: Varying quality from executive AC buses to basic local services

Money Matters: Budgeting for Indonesia

Understanding the Indonesian Rupiah

The first time I withdrew 2,000,000 rupiah (about $128), I felt like a millionaire with the thick stack of bills. Indonesia’s currency can be confusing with all those zeros. As of 2025, 1 USD equals approximately Rp 15,600.

Cash is still king in many places, though major cities increasingly accept cards. I’ve been in remote villages where the only ATM was broken, so always carry backup cash.

Denomination USD Equivalent (approx.) Notes
Rp 1,000 $0.06 Small red note, rarely used
Rp 2,000 $0.13 Gray note
Rp 5,000 $0.32 Brown note
Rp 10,000 $0.64 Purple note, good for small purchases
Rp 20,000 $1.28 Green note
Rp 50,000 $3.20 Blue note, most useful denomination
Rp 100,000 $6.40 Red note, largest denomination

Local Phrase #1: “Berapa harganya?” (beh-RAH-pah HAR-gah-nyah) – “How much does it cost?” Using this simple phrase has immediately changed my interactions with vendors, often resulting in more honest pricing.

Daily Budget Breakdown

Indonesia can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. I’ve lived like a king for $50/day and survived on $20/day when funds were tight.

Budget Travel (~$30-40/day)

  • Accommodation: Hostels/guesthouses (Rp 100,000-250,000/night or $6-16)
  • Food: Street food and warungs (Rp 15,000-30,000/meal or $1-2)
  • Transportation: Local buses, economy trains, ojeks (motorcycle taxis)
  • Activities: Free beaches, hiking, visiting local markets

Mid-range Travel (~$75-100/day)

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotels, nice Airbnbs (Rp 400,000-800,000/night or $25-50)
  • Food: Mix of local restaurants and casual Western options
  • Transportation: Ride-hailing apps, scooter rentals, domestic flights
  • Activities: Guided tours, diving courses, cultural experiences

Luxury Travel ($200+/day)

  • Accommodation: 5-star resorts, luxury villas (Rp 1,500,000+/night or $100+)
  • Food: Fine dining, international restaurants
  • Transportation: Private drivers, boat charters
  • Activities: Private tours, spa treatments, exclusive experiences

Banking & Money Tips

After having my card skimmed at an ATM in Kuta, I’ve become vigilant about money security.

  • Use ATMs attached to banks rather than standalone machines
  • Recommended banks: BCA, Mandiri, CIMB Niaga (lower fees, more reliable)
  • Inform your bank about travel plans to prevent cards being frozen
  • Bring a backup card stored separately from your primary card

Personal Mistake #1: I once accepted change in the dark after a beach dinner in Bali and later discovered several bills were from the long-obsolete 1990s currency series. Always count your change in good light and check for security features on larger bills.

Must-Try Indonesian Cuisine Beyond Nasi Goreng

Indonesian food is criminally underrated globally. Most tourists never venture beyond nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles), but Indonesia offers incredible culinary diversity across its many islands.

Regional Specialties Worth Seeking Out

The aroma of bumbu (spice paste) being prepared in the early morning is the soundtrack to Indonesian life. Each region has distinctive flavors:

  • Padang cuisine (Sumatra): Spicy rendang (slow-cooked beef), gulai (curry), and green chili sambal
  • Sundanese cuisine (West Java): Fresh vegetables, raw herbs, and grilled fish
  • Javanese cuisine (Central & East Java): Sweeter dishes like gudeg (young jackfruit stew)
  • Balinese cuisine: Babi guling (suckling pig), betutu (spiced chicken/duck)
  • Manado cuisine (North Sulawesi): Extremely spicy dishes, seafood, and unusual meats

Local Phrase #2: “Tidak pedas, ya” (TEE-dak PEH-das yah) – “Not spicy, please.” Essential unless you have an asbestos-lined mouth. I learned this the hard way after a plate of sambal matah in Bali left me crying.

Street Food Safety & Recommendations

Some of my best meals in Indonesia cost less than $2 from street carts. Look for these safe bets:

  • Sate (satay): Grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce (Rp 15,000-25,000 or $1-1.60 for 10 sticks)
  • Gado-gado: Vegetable salad with peanut dressing (Rp 15,000 or $1)
  • Bakso: Meatball soup that Obama famously loved from his childhood in Jakarta (Rp 15,000-25,000 or $1-1.60)
  • Martabak: Sweet or savory stuffed pancake (Rp 25,000-50,000 or $1.60-3.20)
  • Soto: Aromatic soup with regional variations (Rp 15,000-30,000 or $1-2)

For street food safety, I follow these rules:

  1. Eat at busy stalls where turnover is high
  2. Choose freshly cooked, hot food
  3. Look for vendors that locals frequent
  4. Avoid cut fruits or vegetables that may have been washed in untreated water

Personal Mistake #2: I once avoided street food for my entire first trip, eating only at tourist restaurants where I paid 5x more and got significantly less authentic food. The irony? My only food poisoning came from a Western-style cafe, not from street vendors.

Cultural Navigation: Etiquette & Communication

Essential Cultural Do’s and Don’ts

Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, but with significant Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist populations. Customs vary by region, but some universal guidelines include:

Do’s:

  • Remove shoes before entering homes and some businesses
  • Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Use your right hand for eating, passing objects, or shaking hands
  • Smile and greet people with “Selamat pagi/siang/sore/malam” (good morning/day/afternoon/evening)
  • Ask permission before photographing people

Don’ts:

  • Touch someone’s head (considered sacred in many Indonesian cultures)
  • Point with your index finger (use your thumb or open hand instead)
  • Display public affection beyond hand-holding
  • Raise your voice in public (Indonesians value harmony and conflict avoidance)
  • Discuss sensitive political topics (corruption, 1965-66 mass killings, Papua independence)

Personal Mistake #3: During my first trip to a rural Javanese village, I refused food offered by a family I was visiting, thinking I was being polite by not imposing. I later learned this was considered quite rude, as hospitality is sacred. Always accept at least a small amount of food or drink when offered.

Basic Bahasa Indonesia Phrases

While English is common in tourist areas, learning a few words of Bahasa Indonesia opens doors to genuine connections. The language uses Latin script and is relatively straightforward in pronunciation.

Phrase Pronunciation Meaning
Selamat pagi seh-LAH-mat PAH-gee Good morning
Terima kasih teh-REE-mah KAH-see Thank you
Sama-sama SAH-mah SAH-mah You’re welcome
Maaf mah-AHF Sorry
Permisi per-MEE-see Excuse me
Di mana kamar kecil? dee MAH-nah KAH-mar keh-CHEEL Where is the bathroom?
Boleh tawar? BOH-lay TAH-war Can I bargain?

Local Phrase #3: “Hati-hati” (HAH-tee HAH-tee) – “Be careful/Take care.” Indonesians say this constantly as a farewell, when you’re crossing a street, or even just going to bed. It shows caring and has become my favorite Indonesian expression.

Navigating Religious Customs and Ceremonies

Indonesia’s religious diversity means you might encounter various ceremonies and observances:

  • Muslim customs: During Ramadan, be respectful by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
  • Balinese Hindu ceremonies: Don’t walk in front of people praying; wear a sarong and sash when visiting temples
  • Traditional events: If invited to a wedding or ceremony, bring a small gift and follow others’ lead

One of my most treasured memories is being invited to a Javanese wedding in Solo, where I awkwardly but earnestly participated in traditional dances and rituals. My willingness to try (despite my terrible dance moves) was met with such warmth and inclusion.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

Java Beyond Jakarta

Most visitors rush through Java on their way to Bali, missing incredible experiences. After multiple trips exploring Java’s volcanic landscapes and ancient temples, these are my favorite under-the-radar spots:

Dieng Plateau (Central Java)

This misty, high-altitude volcanic complex feels otherworldly with its colored lakes, fumaroles, and ancient temples dating to the 8th century. It’s a 3-4 hour drive from Yogyakarta but worth the journey. The sunrise view from Sikunir Hill makes the 3:30am wake-up call worthwhile.

Karimunjawa Islands (Central Java)

This archipelago of 27 islands offers the white sand beaches and coral reefs people expect from Indonesia, but with a fraction of the tourists. Accessible by ferry from Jepara, these islands feature crystal waters, traditional villages, and affordable beachfront accommodations.

Sukamade Beach (East Java)

Part of Meru Betiri National Park, this remote beach requires a challenging journey (4WD vehicles only in rainy season), but rewards visitors with the opportunity to watch endangered sea turtles nest and hatch year-round. Park rangers run a conservation program where visitors can help release baby turtles at sunrise.

Sustainability Tip #1: When visiting turtle conservation sites, never use flash photography or artificial lights, which disorient turtles. Your entry fee to Sukamade directly supports conservation efforts, making this a win-win for travelers and the environment.

Sulawesi’s Hidden Treasures

Sulawesi’s bizarre K-shape created isolated cultures and ecosystems that feel unlike anywhere else in Indonesia. While Toraja’s elaborate funeral ceremonies draw some travelers to South Sulawesi, the island offers much more:

Togean Islands (Central Sulawesi)

This remote archipelago in the Gulf of Tomini offers world-class diving and snorkeling among pristine reefs. The journey is long—typically involving a flight to Gorontalo, bus to Ampana, then boat—but you’ll be rewarded with empty beaches, overwater bungalows for $25/night, and unique marine species including rare pygmy seahorses.

Tangkoko Nature Reserve (North Sulawesi)

While most wildlife enthusiasts head to Borneo or Sumatra, Tangkoko offers almost guaranteed sightings of endangered critters including the minuscule tarsier (one of the world’s smallest primates) and the black-crested macaque. Hiring a local guide (Rp 300,000 or about $19) not only enhances your chances of spotting wildlife but supports conservation employment.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #4: In remote areas like Togean Islands, bring sufficient cash. There are no ATMs, and the few accommodations that accept cards add substantial surcharges (15-20%). However, this isolation means prices for accommodation and food remain remarkably low.

Lesser-Known Alternatives to Popular Destinations

Indonesia’s famous destinations are popular for good reason, but nearby alternatives often offer similar experiences with fewer crowds and lower prices:

Instead of… Consider… Why I Prefer It
Ubud, Bali Sidemen Valley, Bali Similar rice terraces and culture but without the Instagram crowds and traffic
Gili Islands Moyo Island, Sumbawa Pristine reefs, waterfalls, and wildlife with just a handful of accommodation options
Komodo National Park Rinca Island See Komodo dragons with fewer tour boats and more authentic hiking experiences
Raja Ampat Banda Islands, Maluku Historic spice islands with phenomenal diving, colonial architecture, and nutmeg plantations

Sustainability Tip #2: Many lesser-visited destinations have limited waste management infrastructure. Pack a reusable water bottle with filter (I use a Grayl), collapsible food containers for takeaway, and biodegradable toiletries. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars avoiding bottled water while preventing plastic pollution.

Practical Tips for Everyday Challenges

Staying Healthy in Indonesia

Every long-term traveler to Indonesia eventually faces health challenges. I’ve dealt with everything from dengue fever to an infected coral cut. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Vaccinations and Preventive Care

  • Required: None officially required unless coming from yellow fever regions
  • Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, Japanese encephalitis (for rural areas)
  • Malaria prevention: Necessary for Papua, Maluku, rural parts of Sulawesi and Sumatra

Common Health Issues and Solutions

  • Bali Belly/Traveler’s Diarrhea: Carry probiotics and rehydration salts; seek medical help if symptoms persist beyond 3 days
  • Heat exhaustion: Indonesia’s humidity can be deceptive; stay hydrated and limit midday sun exposure
  • Dengue fever: No vaccine available; wear repellent containing DEET, particularly during dawn and dusk
  • Skin infections: Minor cuts can become infected quickly in tropical environments; clean wounds thoroughly and apply antibiotic ointment

Personal Mistake #4: I once dismissed what I thought was a mosquito bite on my foot, only to develop a severe staph infection that required IV antibiotics and ruined two weeks of my trip. Now I immediately clean and treat any skin breaks, no matter how minor they seem.

Medical Resources

Quality healthcare varies dramatically across Indonesia:

  • Best hospitals: BIMC and Siloam in Bali, Bumrungrad branch in Jakarta
  • Travel insurance: Absolutely essential; ensure it covers emergency evacuation (I use World Nomads)
  • Pharmacies: Kimia Farma and Guardian are reliable chains where many medications are available without prescription

The sound of geckos chirping in my hotel bathroom has become a comfort rather than a surprise. These little lizards eat mosquitoes and are considered good luck in Indonesian homes.

Internet and Connectivity

Internet access has improved dramatically across Indonesia, but connectivity still varies widely:

SIM Cards and Data Plans

  • Best providers: Telkomsel (widest coverage but most expensive), XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo
  • Typical costs: 15GB package valid for 30 days costs around Rp 100,000-150,000 ($6-10)
  • Registration: As of 2025, all SIM cards require registration with ID (passport for foreigners)

VPN Necessity

Indonesia occasionally blocks websites and apps (including Reddit, Vimeo, and some messaging platforms). I always use a VPN (NordVPN or ExpressVPN) both for access and security on public WiFi.

Sustainability Tip #3: Many remote communities in Indonesia suffer from digital exclusion. Organizations like Internet Sehat work to expand digital literacy. Consider donating your old smartphone before leaving—it can help a local entrepreneur or student access educational resources.

Safety Concerns and Solutions

Indonesia is generally safe for travelers, but specific issues require awareness:

Natural Disasters

Indonesia’s location on the “Ring of Fire” means volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common. In 2022, I was in Lombok during a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that was terrifying but caused only minor damage.

  • Download the InaRISK app from Indonesia’s disaster management agency
  • Know evacuation routes from your accommodation
  • For volcanoes, check current alert levels on the MAGMA Indonesia website

Common Scams

Most Indonesians are incredibly honest, but tourist areas attract opportunists:

  • Money changing scams: Counters advertising “No Commission” often use sleight-of-hand tactics; use bank ATMs instead
  • Transportation overcharging: Agree on prices before rides or use metered services/apps
  • “Closed” attraction redirects: Guides claiming attractions are closed, then offering alternative tours; verify opening hours independently

The smell of clove cigarettes, the call to prayer echoing across rice fields, and the constant chorus of “Hello Mister!” from children practicing their English—these sensory experiences define Indonesia for me more than any landmark.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for an Amazing Indonesia Trip

After seven visits and countless adventures across the archipelago, I’ve distilled what makes for a truly memorable Indonesian journey. Follow these steps to create your own perfect experience:

  1. Diversify your destinations: Combine at least one major destination with one off-the-beaten-path location. If visiting Bali, add a few days in neighboring Nusa Penida or more distant Flores. This balance gives you both infrastructure comfort and authentic cultural experiences.
  2. Connect with locals through food: Take a cooking class within your first few days in Indonesia. You’ll learn about ingredients, cultural significance of dishes, and often make local friends who can offer insider tips. I recommend Paon Bali Cooking Class in Ubud or Java Saffron in Yogyakarta.
  3. Master basic transportation: Learn to use Gojek or Grab apps immediately upon arrival. Then progressively build confidence using local transport—first metered taxis, then trains or buses between cities, and finally ferries to islands. Each step expands your range and reduces costs.
  4. Schedule downtime between adventures: Indonesia’s challenging transportation and intense sensory experiences require recovery time. Plan a relaxed beach stay between trekking volcanoes and exploring dense cities. This prevents burnout and allows for spontaneous discoveries.
  5. Document meaningfully: Beyond Instagram photos, collect intangible souvenirs—learn five phrases in a local language, master cooking one Indonesian dish at home, or journal about conversations with locals. These practices deepen your connection to places and create more lasting memories than photographs alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Indonesia safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Indonesia is generally safe for solo female travelers, but with common-sense precautions. I’ve traveled extensively throughout Indonesia alone and encountered primarily respectful treatment. Conservative dress (covering shoulders and knees) reduces unwanted attention, particularly in non-tourist areas. In Muslim regions like Aceh, more modest attire is expected. The main safety concerns are the same for all travelers: transportation safety, natural disasters, and petty theft in tourist areas.

What’s the best Indonesian island for first-time visitors?

Bali remains the ideal first-time destination due to its well-developed tourism infrastructure, English proficiency, and diversity of experiences. Within one compact island, you can experience beaches, rice terraces, volcano hikes, cultural performances, and excellent restaurants. However, I recommend combining Bali with at least a few days in Java or the Nusa islands to experience a more authentic side of Indonesia. Java offers the cultural and historical depth while remaining relatively accessible.

How much should I budget for a month in Indonesia?

A comfortable but not luxurious month in Indonesia costs approximately $1,500-2,500 USD (excluding international flights). This allows for mid-range accommodation ($25-40/night), a mix of local and Western meals, domestic flights between major islands, and activities including diving, tours, and cultural experiences. Budget travelers can manage on $800-1,200 by staying in hostels, eating exclusively at warungs, using public transportation, and being selective about paid activities. Luxury travelers should budget $5,000+ for high-end resorts, private tours, and fine dining.

Do I need a visa for Indonesia in 2025?

Most Western tourists can enter Indonesia visa-free for 30 days, with the primary requirement being a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and proof of onward travel. This visa-free stay cannot be extended. If you plan to stay 31-60 days, purchase a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Rp 500,000 (about $32) upon landing, which can be extended once for another 30 days. For stays beyond 60 days, you must apply for a Social Cultural Visa before arrival through an Indonesian embassy or consulate.

When is the best time to visit Indonesia?

The optimal time to visit most of Indonesia is during the dry season from May to September, with June-August being peak tourist season with higher prices. However, Indonesia’s climate varies by region. Bali and Java are most pleasant from May to September. Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Papua have different rain patterns—check regional forecasts before booking. Even during “rainy season,” downpours typically last a few hours rather than days, and you’ll enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. I’ve had wonderful trips during shoulder seasons (April/May and September/October) with good weather and reasonable prices.

Is tap water safe to drink in Indonesia?

No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Indonesia. Even locals use refillable gallons or boil water before consumption. Options include buying bottled water (creating plastic waste), using a water purification bottle like Grayl or LifeStraw, or refilling bottles at water stations (look for “Air Isi Ulang” signs). Many hotels and restaurants now offer filtered water refill stations. I bring a portable water filter and have saved hundreds of dollars over multiple trips while avoiding single-use plastics.

How should I handle tipping in Indonesia?

Indonesia does not have a strong tipping culture, and service charges (5-10%) are typically added to bills in established restaurants and hotels. However, tipping is increasingly expected in tourist areas. For exceptional service, round up taxi fares or add 5-10%. For tour guides and drivers on day trips, Rp 50,000-100,000 ($3-6) is appreciated. For multi-day tours, Rp 100,000-200,000 ($6-13) per day is generous. In high-end establishments, international tipping customs (10-15%) are increasingly common. The most important thing is recognizing good service—even small tips are genuinely appreciated.

What power adapters do I need for Indonesia?

Indonesia primarily uses Type C (European-style) and Type F (Schuko) power outlets with 230V/50Hz electricity. Some older buildings and rural areas may have Type G (UK-style) outlets. I recommend bringing a universal adapter with surge protection, as power fluctuations can occur. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) handle the voltage automatically, but check specific devices. Power outages are common outside major cities, so a portable battery pack is essential. Some remote islands have limited electricity hours (often 6pm-6am only), so plan device charging accordingly.

References and Further Reading