Is Indonesia Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Guide Based on 12+ Years Experience

Introduction: My Indonesia Journey

The first time I stepped off the plane at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, I was a nervous 23-year-old with a backpack and very little travel experience. Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve now spent more than 12 years regularly visiting Indonesia – exploring everything from the tourist hotspots of Bali to remote villages in Sulawesi where foreigners rarely venture. I’ve had my phone snatched in Jakarta, survived a minor earthquake in Lombok, gotten wonderfully lost in the rice terraces of Ubud, and made lifelong friends across this incredible archipelago.

When friends ask me, “Is Indonesia safe?” I always respond with both a smile and a serious nod. Like anywhere in the world, safety in Indonesia requires context, common sense, and cultural understanding. This guide shares everything I’ve learned – sometimes the hard way – to help you navigate Indonesia safely and confidently in 2025.

Indonesia’s Overall Safety Landscape in 2025

Indonesia is generally safe for travelers in 2025, but it’s important to understand the nuances. With over 17,000 islands spanning three time zones, safety conditions vary dramatically depending on where you visit. The tourist-heavy areas like Bali, parts of Java, and Lombok have robust infrastructure for visitors, while more remote regions require extra preparation.

Quick safety snapshot: Indonesia ranks in the middle of global safety indexes for 2025. It’s generally safer than many perceive but requires more awareness than destinations like Japan or Singapore.

Recent Safety Developments (2023-2025)

Improved tourist police presence in major destinations
New government emergency app with English support
Enhanced infrastructure following post-pandemic tourism recovery
Stricter enforcement of scooter helmet laws (with increased fines)
New safety standards for boat operators following incidents in 2023

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism has made significant investments in visitor safety since the pandemic, particularly in key tourism corridors. These improvements are most evident in Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Lombok.

Breaking Down Safety by Region

Bali – The Tourist Hub

Bali remains Indonesia’s safest major destination for tourists in 2025. Crime rates are relatively low, though petty theft does occur, particularly in crowded areas like Kuta and Seminyak. The biggest safety concerns typically involve motorbike accidents and water safety.

I once rented a scooter in Ubud without properly checking the brakes – a mistake that led to a nerve-wracking descent down a steep hill. Learn from my error: always test equipment thoroughly, wear a helmet (the new 2024 fine is 750,000 IDR, about $47), and drive defensively.

Java – Bustling Cities and Cultural Treasures

Java presents a mix of safety conditions. Jakarta requires typical big-city awareness – I’ve found it similar to Bangkok or Manila. Watch for pickpockets and scams, particularly around Kota Tua and major transportation hubs. The 2024 introduction of the Jakarta Safe Travel police units has improved tourist safety in key areas.

Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo) are generally safer, with lower crime rates and friendlier environments for tourists. I’ve walked around these cities at night with reasonable caution and never encountered problems.

Sumatra – Adventure Territory

Sumatra requires more careful planning. While Medan and Lake Toba are relatively well-equipped for tourists, infrastructure becomes spottier as you venture south. The roads connecting major destinations can be challenging, with landslides not uncommon during rainy season (October-April).

I once found myself stranded near Bukittinggi when floods washed out the road – a 3-hour journey turned into a 2-day adventure. Always build flexibility into your Sumatra itinerary and check local conditions.

Eastern Indonesia – Komodo to Papua

The eastern regions offer Indonesia’s most spectacular natural environments but come with additional safety considerations. Medical facilities are limited, transportation can be unreliable, and you’ll be far from embassy assistance if needed.

In Flores and Komodo National Park, boat safety has improved since the 2023 regulations, but always verify operator licenses and safety equipment. The 2024 Komodo National Park management changes have created more structured tourist experiences with better safety protocols.

Key Safety Concerns for Travelers

Natural Disasters

Indonesia sits within the “Ring of Fire,” making volcanic eruptions and earthquakes ongoing risks. In my years visiting, I’ve experienced several minor earthquakes and one volcano-related airport closure.

The government has improved early warning systems since 2018, but awareness remains essential. Download the INA-DEWS (Indonesia Disaster & Emergency Warning System) app, which provides real-time alerts in English.

Natural Hazard	Risk Level	Affected Areas	Precautions
Earthquakes	Moderate-High	All regions, especially Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi	Know evacuation routes from accommodation
Volcanic Activity	Moderate	Java, Bali, Lombok, Sulawesi	Monitor alerts, avoid restricted zones
Tsunamis	Low-Moderate	Coastal areas	Recognize natural warning signs (receding water)
Floods	Seasonal (Oct-April)	Jakarta, Sumatra, Kalimantan	Check weather forecasts, have alternate plans

Health Concerns

Indonesia’s tropical climate presents several health considerations. Dengue fever remains present year-round, with case numbers typically rising during rainy season. The good news is that medical facilities in tourist areas have continued to improve through 2025.

I contracted dengue in 2019 while staying in Ubud, and while it was certainly unpleasant, I received excellent care at Siloam Hospital. Always travel with good insurance – my treatment would have cost over $1,000 without coverage.

Key health precautions:

Use mosquito repellent containing DEET (especially at dawn and dusk)
Drink bottled or filtered water only
Consider typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations
Pack basic medications (antidiarrheals, antihistamines, pain relievers)
Carry proof of travel insurance

The new International Tourist Medical Centers established in Bali, Lombok and Jakarta since 2024 have standardized pricing and English-speaking staff, making healthcare navigation much easier than in previous years.

Crime and Scams

Violent crime against tourists remains rare in Indonesia, but petty theft and scams do occur. Common issues include:

Transportation overcharging – Always negotiate taxi fares before getting in (if no meter) or use apps like Grab and Gojek
Counterfeit money – I once received fake 100,000 IDR notes from a currency exchange in Kuta. Use bank ATMs when possible
Pickpocketing – Particularly in crowded markets and bus terminals
Drink spiking – Watch your drinks, especially in tourist bar areas
The “damaged rental” scam – Document any existing damage to rentals (scooters, etc.) with photos

A new scam I encountered in 2024 involves QR code payment manipulation, where fraudsters overlay their own QR codes on legitimate payment terminals. Always verify payment details before confirming transactions.

Transportation Safety

Transportation accidents represent one of the highest safety risks in Indonesia. Road conditions vary dramatically, and traffic rules are often treated as suggestions rather than laws.

Money-saving insider tip: Rather than taking expensive hotel transfers, I use Grab or Gojek apps which are 50-70% cheaper and track your journey via GPS. In areas where these services face resistance (parts of Bali), have your driver drop you near but not exactly at your accommodation to avoid confrontations with local transport groups.

If you’re considering renting a scooter, be honest about your riding abilities. Indonesia’s traffic is not the place to learn. I’ve seen too many tourists with “Bali tattoos” (road rash) from overestimating their skills.

Cultural Safety: Understanding Indonesian Etiquette

Safety isn’t just about physical dangers – cultural missteps can create uncomfortable or even risky situations. Indonesia is generally tolerant of foreign visitors, but cultural respect goes a long way toward ensuring positive experiences.

Indonesia’s diversity means customs vary by region. Aceh province observes stricter Islamic codes than Bali’s Hindu culture, for example. The 2023 revisions to Indonesia’s criminal code formalized some traditional values into law, though enforcement targeting tourists remains rare as of 2025.

Key Cultural Considerations

Dress modestly outside beach areas (shoulders covered, no very short shorts)
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain religious sites
Use your right hand for eating and passing objects
Ask permission before photographing people
Be respectful around religious ceremonies

Learning a few Indonesian phrases can significantly enhance your safety and experience:

“Permisi” (Per-mee-see) – Excuse me
“Tolong” (Toe-long) – Please help
“Hati-hati” (Ha-tee ha-tee) – Be careful
“Bahaya” (Ba-ha-ya) – Danger

Women’s Safety in Indonesia

As a woman who has frequently traveled solo in Indonesia, I can share that Indonesia presents a mixed experience for female travelers. Major tourist areas are generally comfortable, while more conservative regions require additional consideration.

Cat-calling does happen, particularly in cities, but physical harassment is uncommon. The most uncomfortable I’ve felt was walking alone at night in parts of Kuta Beach and near Jakarta’s nightlife districts. Using ride-sharing apps rather than walking after dark in unfamiliar areas is worth the small expense.

Tips for Women Travelers

Dress modestly outside tourist enclaves (particularly in Aceh, Sumatra, Java)
Consider wearing a fake wedding ring in more traditional areas
Book accommodations with good security and reviews from solo female travelers
Use women-only carriages on Jakarta and Yogyakarta commuter trains
Trust your intuition about uncomfortable situations

A positive development: The Ministry of Tourism established a Women Traveler Assistance hotline in 2024 (available at 0800-1-2025-77) providing support in multiple languages.

Digital Safety and Connectivity

Indonesia’s internet connectivity has improved dramatically, with 4G widely available and 5G expanding in major cities. However, digital safety requires attention.

Public WiFi networks are common but often unsecured. I’ve had my social media account compromised after using airport WiFi without a VPN. Now I never connect to public networks without protection.

Essential Digital Safety Tips

Use a VPN, especially for financial transactions
Buy local SIM cards from official outlets only (Telkomsel offers the best coverage)
Be cautious with public charging stations (bring your own charger)
Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts
Download offline maps before visiting remote areas

Money-saving insider tip: Instead of expensive international roaming, buy a Telkomsel Tourist SIM at the airport (150,000 IDR, ~$9.50). Ask specifically for the tourist package as regular SIMs require Indonesian ID registration as of 2023. You’ll get plenty of data for maps, translation, and communication.

LGBTQ+ Safety Considerations

Indonesia presents complex considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers. While homosexuality remains legal in most of the country (except Aceh province), conservative social attitudes prevail, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples are generally not accepted.

That said, tourist areas like Bali, parts of Jakarta, and Yogyakarta have more relaxed attitudes. I’ve traveled with gay friends who had positive experiences by simply being discrete about their relationship in public.

The safety landscape for transgender travelers has slightly improved since 2023, with major airports and tourist hotels adopting more inclusive policies, though challenges remain in more conservative regions.

Money-Saving Safety Hacks from a Decade of Travel

Some of my best safety tips also save money – a win-win for any traveler!

Three Insider Safety Tips That Save Money

Use ride-sharing instead of street taxis: Apps like Grab and Gojek are 30-50% cheaper than street taxis, track your journey by GPS, and eliminate haggling. In 2024, both apps added enhanced safety features including emergency buttons and journey sharing.
Stay in family-run guesthouses: Local families provide invaluable safety advice, often include breakfast, and charge half what equivalent hotels do. My favorite places have always been family-run establishments where owners share local insights you won’t find in guidebooks.
Join free walking tours: Available in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Ubud, these tours (tip-based) provide orientation and safety context while connecting you with other travelers. The Jakarta Good Guide walking tours taught me more about navigating the city safely than any guidebook.

Sustainability Choices That Enhance Safety

Indonesia faces significant environmental challenges, and sustainable choices often align with safer travel practices:

Refillable water bottles with filters: Save money on bottled water while reducing plastic waste and ensuring clean drinking water. Many cafes now offer free refill stations.
Public transportation in cities: Jakarta’s MRT and TransJakarta bus system are inexpensive, reduce carbon footprint, and help avoid traffic accident risks.
Community-based tourism: Programs like Bali Village Tours send money directly to local communities while providing authentic experiences with built-in local guidance.

Emergency Response in Indonesia

Knowing how to handle emergencies is crucial. Indonesia has improved its emergency response systems, but capabilities vary widely by region.

Emergency Numbers

General Emergency: 112 (now works nationwide)
Tourist Police: 110 or 1131
Ambulance: 118 or 119
Search and Rescue: 115

In addition to these numbers, save contacts for your country’s embassy or consulate. The Safe Travel app from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides emergency information and embassy contacts.

Medical Emergencies

International-standard hospitals exist in major cities, but facilities become more basic in remote areas:

Jakarta: Siloam Hospitals, Medistra Hospital
Bali: BIMC Hospital, Siloam Bali
Yogyakarta: Panti Rapih Hospital
Lombok: Siloam Mataram (new international wing opened 2024)

Always carry your insurance information and be prepared to pay upfront, even with insurance (you’ll claim reimbursement later). Medical evacuation insurance is essential if traveling to remote areas.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Safe Travel Plan for Indonesia

After more than a decade exploring Indonesia, I’ve found that preparation creates confidence, and confidence creates safety. Indonesia rewards those who approach it with respect, awareness, and a sense of adventure.

Here’s your actionable 5-step plan for safe travel in Indonesia:

Pre-Trip Preparation
- Register with your country’s travel advisory service
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
- Download essential apps: Grab/Gojek, Google Translate, Maps.me offline maps
- Research local customs for your specific destinations
Arrival Safety
- Use official airport transportation or pre-book through your accommodation
- Get a local SIM card from an official provider at the airport
- Share your accommodation details with someone at home
Daily Awareness
- Maintain environment awareness without paranoia
- Dress appropriately for each setting and region
- Keep valuables secure and distributed (not all in one place)
Transportation Strategy
- Use reputable companies or apps for all transportation
- Evaluate your actual skill level before renting vehicles
- Allow extra time for all journeys to avoid rushing
Cultural Connection
- Learn basic Indonesian phrases
- Engage respectfully with locals
- Support community-based tourism initiatives

Indonesia has given me some of my most treasured travel experiences – from watching the sunrise from atop Mt. Bromo to snorkeling alongside manta rays in Komodo National Park. Yes, there are safety considerations, but with reasonable precautions, the rewards far outweigh the risks.

Selamat jalan! (Safe travels!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Indonesia safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Indonesia is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in tourist areas like Bali, Yogyakarta, and parts of Lombok. However, modest dress is recommended in more conservative areas, particularly on Sumatra and Java outside major cities. Using ride-sharing apps rather than walking alone at night and staying in well-reviewed accommodations significantly enhances safety. The main issues women report are occasional catcalling and unwanted attention rather than physical danger.

What’s the biggest safety risk in Indonesia?

Transportation accidents represent the highest safety risk for travelers in Indonesia. Road conditions vary dramatically, traffic rules are often ignored, and motorbike accidents involving tourists are unfortunately common. Other significant risks include watercraft safety (particularly on smaller boats between islands) and natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic activity. Most visitors experience none of these issues, but awareness and preparation are essential.

Do I need special vaccinations for Indonesia?

While Indonesia has no mandatory vaccinations for entry (as of 2025), health authorities recommend Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines be up-to-date. Japanese Encephalitis vaccination is suggested for longer stays, especially in rural areas. Malaria prophylaxis is generally unnecessary for Bali and Java but may be recommended for eastern Indonesia, Papua, and rural Sumatra. Always consult with a travel medicine specialist before your trip for personalized advice.

Is tap water safe to drink in Indonesia?

No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Indonesia. Stick to bottled water (check seals are intact), boiled water, or use a reliable water purifier. Many hotels provide complimentary bottled water daily. Ice in established restaurants and cafes is generally made from purified water and safe, but use caution with street vendors.

How prevalent is terrorism risk in Indonesia?

The terrorism risk in Indonesia has decreased significantly since the early 2000s. The Indonesian government has successfully disrupted major terrorist networks, though isolated incidents remain possible. Tourist areas have enhanced security measures, particularly in Bali and Jakarta. Standard precautions include avoiding political demonstrations, being alert in crowded public spaces, and following local authority guidance.

What should I do if I experience a natural disaster while in Indonesia?

If you experience an earthquake, move away from buildings to an open area if safe to do so, or shelter under sturdy furniture if indoors. For tsunami warnings, immediately move to higher ground. For volcanic activity, follow evacuation orders without delay. Keep your phone charged, follow instructions from local authorities, contact your embassy, and have a plan to check in with family. The INA-DEWS app provides disaster alerts in English and is recommended for all travelers.

Are there areas of Indonesia I should avoid?

Most travel advisories suggest exercising increased caution or reconsidering travel to Central Sulawesi (particularly Poso) and Papua due to civil unrest. However, the vast majority of Indonesia, including all major tourist destinations, does not fall under these warnings. Always check your country’s latest travel advisories before finalizing plans, as situations can change.

Is Indonesia expensive for travelers in 2025?

Indonesia remains relatively affordable despite some post-pandemic price increases. Budget travelers can manage on $30-50 USD daily, mid-range travelers $50-100, and luxury experiences start from $100+. Bali and Jakarta are the most expensive regions, while places like Sumatra and Flores offer better value. The recent tourism development push has created more luxury options, but budget accommodations remain plentiful.