Indonesia, located between Southeast Asia and Oceania, is made up of over 17,000 islands. Among the most notable are Java, Bali, Sumatra, Borneo, Lombok, Sulawesi, and Papua — each with its own unique charm and culture.
With a population of more than 255 million, it’s the fourth most populated country in the world and the largest Muslim-majority nation. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, although more than 300 local languages are spoken across the archipelago.
Indonesia stands out for its incredible natural and cultural diversity. In just one trip, you can explore paradise beaches, lush jungles, ancient temples, active volcanoes, and some of the world’s richest marine life.
If you want to enjoy your time without rushing, we recommend planning at least two weeks — otherwise, you’ll likely leave wanting more 😉
The most convenient way to reach Indonesia is by flying into Jakarta (CGK) or Bali (DPS). There are direct flights from many major cities in Europe, Asia, and Australia. Common airlines include Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, and Iberia.
From Spain, the best connections are usually with Qatar, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines. Round-trip flights from Madrid or Barcelona to Jakarta typically cost around €700–800, with Bali flights costing about €100–200 more.
If you’re coming from another continent, you’ll likely need to connect through a major hub.
Update May 2025: Flight prices have dropped! This year, airlines like Saudia and Etihad are offering round trips from Spain to Indonesia for under €600.
To enter Indonesia, you’ll need a valid visa and a passport with at least six months of validity from your intended departure date.
Those are available for citizens of many countries, including Spain, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, and Andorra. You can choose between two main options:
Visa summary – Updated on May 2025
| Visa Type | Initial Duration | Extendable? | Max Stay | Cost (IDR / €) | Where to Apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B1 - Visa On Arrival (VOA) | 30 days | Yes, 30 more | 60 days | 500,000 IDR (~€30) | Online or on arrival | Best for short stays |
| C1 Tourist Visa | 60 days | Yes, twice (60 days each) | 180 days | 1,500,000 IDR (~€90) | Online only | Ideal for longer trips or to avoid extension hassle |
You can apply for both visas quickly online. Processing usually takes up to 5 business days (although sometimes you can get it in minutes!) and payment is done by credit or debit card.
If you haven’t applied in advance, don’t worry — you can get a VOA easily at the airport. Just go to the Visa On Arrival counters.
If you plan to leave and re-enter Indonesia multiple times, you’ll need a D1 multiple-entry visa (valid for up to a year). Contact us for more info.
All travelers entering Indonesia must complete an electronic customs declaration, even if you have nothing to declare. You can fill it out online within 72 hours before arrival. After submission, you’ll receive a QR code to present at customs.
Indonesia has an equatorial climate with stable temperatures throughout the year, ranging between 25 and 30°C. The humidity is high, and the country experiences two main seasons: the dry season, from April to October, and the rainy season, from November to March.
However, it is a vast country, and the climate also varies by region. Rain is often in the form of brief storms lasting 2 to 3 hours, usually around midday or early afternoon.
Check out our article on the climate of Indonesia month by month and by destination!
For all these reasons, it’s entirely possible (and sometimes a great idea) to travel during the rainy season, as it doesn’t necessarily rain all day long.
The ideal window to visit most of Indonesia is between April and October, when the dry weather prevails. July and August are peak tourist months, with warm temperatures and a large influx of travelers, especially in the west and central parts of the country.
For those who prefer to explore the eastern part, such as Banda and Raja Ampat, the period from October to April is most suitable.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil and slightly more affordable experience, the months from April to June and September to October are perfect.
Although peak season can be busy, there are still many lesser-known routes to discover.
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You can exchange Euros, Dollars, and many other currencies without trouble in the country’s tourist areas.
The bills are of low value, as the largest denomination is 100,000 IDR, which is only about €6. The good news is that you’ll feel like a millionaire during your stay! Just be prepared to carry large wads of cash.
The exchange rate at the airport is usually not the best, so change only what you need and then compare rates at other authorized exchange offices.
⚠️Warning! In Bali, it’s common for tourists to fall victim to scams at some shady exchange houses. They count the money quickly in front of you and may sneak a few bills away without you noticing.
ATMs: There are many in tourist areas, but don’t expect to find them in small villages or remote islands like Raja Ampat. Keep in mind that the maximum you can withdraw at once is relatively low, 2,500,000 or 1,250,000 IDR, depending on the ATM. Always carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
💡TIP: It’s very convenient to use a card like Revolut, Wise, or N26, which charge lower fees for withdrawing cash.
Indonesia is generally an affordable destination, though prices vary depending on the region and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Accommodation ranges from 30-40€ per night for mid-range hotels with breakfast, to 80-100€ per person for full-board dive resorts.
As for food, you can enjoy a dish at a local warung for about 2-3€, while mid-range restaurant prices are around 10€ per person.
For diving, a discover scuba dive typically starts at around 80€ per dive, while fun dives cost between 30-50€. Liveaboard diving cruise prices start from 200€ per day.
Bring light and comfortable clothing, keeping in mind that the tropical climate means you’ll sweat a lot. If you plan to do treks or walk a lot, a pair of comfortable shoes or boots is essential.
Also, pack a sweater or hoodie for cooler mountain areas, nights on boats, or flights.
Don’t forget hats, caps, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, along with reef-friendly sunscreen (zinc mineral sunscreen is ideal).
A flashlight is great for your nighttime adventures. A small dry bag is very handy, and a microfiber towel (or sarong) is practical and takes up little space. You’ll also need your toiletries and insect repellent.
Take care of your passport as if it were gold! It’s the most important item you’ll carry with you. Also, store digital copies of your important documents (passport, tickets, insurance, etc.) and avoid carrying the original passport daily; a photo or photocopy will suffice.
If you’re going scuba diving, don’t forget to bring your certification card—digital or physical—as it will be required.
Don’t forget your camera, plug adapter if necessary (Indonesia uses 220V with European-type 2-pin plugs), and make sure your chargers are well organized.
Indonesia offers options for all tastes, from boutique hotels and luxury resorts to very basic accommodations in less touristy areas.
Guesthouses or homestays are simple accommodations managed by local families that often provide a more authentic experience and closer interaction with local life.
In Bali, you’ll find a wide variety of villas (houses with gardens and pools) of all sizes and prices, which are a great option, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
Indonesia has many airports, and flying is the most convenient way to avoid wasting time. There are many daily connections, and they are usually not expensive.
However, delays are not uncommon, so if you plan on making connections, leave at least a 2-hour gap between internal flights and even more for international flights. It’s best to have patience and consider delays as part of the adventure.
If you’re going on a liveaboard diving trip, we always recommend arriving at the departure location a day before, to have a buffer in case of delays or cancellations.
💡TIP: If you’re flying with Garuda Indonesia, you get an extra 23kg piece of checked luggage for sports equipment, including diving gear.
Indonesia is home to incredible biodiversity. If you visit national parks or reserves, remember you’re in the natural habitat of the animals, so it’s not always guaranteed you’ll see them. But when you do, it will be a unique experience.
When traveling in search of wildlife, it’s important to do so responsibly. Avoid any attractions that use captive animals for tourism purposes, such as shows or photo sessions.
At Karang Travel, we consider activities like fake “sanctuaries” where elephants are touched or fed, or Luwak coffee plantations, to be unethical. If you choose to visit a conservation center, it’s important to research beforehand to ensure they truly contribute to animal welfare and not their exploitation.
💡TIP: Never feed wild animals or interfere with their behavior. Your presence should be as discreet as possible to avoid disrupting the natural environment.
National parks like Tanjung Puting and Komodo are some of the best places to see iconic species like orangutans, mantas, and Komodo dragons.
Trying the local food is one of the best ways to connect with Indonesia. Beyond your hotel breakfast, be sure to eat at warungs or small local restaurants. It’s affordable, delicious, and very authentic.
Some common dishes include nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), sate (skewers), gado-gado (salad with peanut sauce), and soto (soup with meat or chicken and noodles). Indonesian food is known for its use of spices like chili, turmeric, and ginger, so if you prefer to avoid spice, ask for “not spicy” or “tidak pedas.”
Vegetarians and vegans will find many options in Indonesia. Tempeh and tofu are staple ingredients and are prepared in many delicious ways. In tourist areas, you’ll also find a variety of modern Western food. In more remote areas or during boat trips, the food tends to be simpler but just as tasty.
Indonesians are generally very friendly, hospitable, and kind. They have a great ability to avoid confrontations, and they often say “yes” even if they don’t fully agree, reflecting their desire to maintain harmony. Additionally, humility is a key value in their culture, so a respectful attitude will always be appreciated.
It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples: wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and use a sarong if necessary (usually provided or rented at the entrance).
In areas like Bali, you’ll see tourists walking around in swimsuits or bikinis even at the supermarket… please, don’t be one of them.
Avoid public displays of affection, especially in more traditional areas. Always be kind, smile, and remember that a humble and respectful attitude will open many doors on your trip.
💡TIP: Always ask for permission before taking a photo of someone.
Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population, with Islam being the dominant religion across most of the country, especially in Java and Sumatra.
Bali is a notable exception, where Hinduism shapes daily life and you’ll see temples everywhere. Christianity is common in North Sulawesi, Flores, and Papua.
By law, every Indonesian citizen must declare a religion on their ID card. The state officially recognizes six: Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.
Religion is deeply woven into everyday life. As a traveler, be respectful at religious sites: dress modestly, follow local customs, and enjoy the rich variety of rituals, festivals, and traditions you’ll encounter.
Indonesia is generally a safe country for travelers, but, like anywhere, it’s important to stay alert and take basic precautions. Petty theft can occur, especially in busy tourist areas, so it’s a good idea to keep your valuables secure, be discreet with expensive items or cash and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
Also, be cautious when random strangers approach you too friendly. While Indonesians are known for their hospitality, some may try to “force” themselves as guides to popular tourist spots, even if you haven’t asked for one. Always trust your instincts and politely decline if you’re not interested.
Although these scams usually involve small amounts, it’s still important to be careful.
Taxi apps like Gojek or Grab work well for booking cars and motorbikes. They are cheap, fast, and very useful. However, in some tourist areas, especially in Bali, they are not allowed in certain zones due to local restrictions, and you may not find a driver in these places.
Another common option is renting a car with a driver for the day, especially useful for exploring more remote areas or doing multi-stop routes. It’s comfortable, safe, and the driver usually knows the area well and can speak English. The price typically ranges from 600,000 to 800,000 IDR per day.
You can also rent a motorbike, which is common among travelers. It can be practical if you have experience, but it’s not recommended if you’re not used to riding motorcycles: traffic can be chaotic, roads are bad, and there are many accidents.
A bad day on a motorbike can ruin your trip and it’s very common to see tourists involved in motorbike accidents in Bali, Nusa Penida and other parts of Indonesia. Think twice if you really need it and can drive it safely before renting a motorbike.
If you need help with transportation, feel free to contact us at Karang Travel, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Traveling responsibly in Indonesia is not only possible but necessary. The country faces significant challenges such as waste management, marine conservation, and the pressure of tourism. As travelers, our decisions matter.
Small gestures like carrying your own reusable bottle, rejecting single-use plastics, or supporting eco-friendly accommodations and operators make a difference.
It’s also important to respect marine life while diving or snorkeling. Never touch coral, starfish, or feed the fish, and avoid taking sand or shells from the beaches.
If you want to take it a step further, consider participating in local conservation or beach cleanup projects, many of which accept volunteers on a short-term basis.
At the time of writing our Indonesia Travel Guide there are no mandatory vaccines required for entry into Indonesia, although it’s advisable to ensure your vaccinations for typhoid fever and hepatitis B are up to date.
Recently, the dengue vaccine and malaria pills are recommended if you’re traveling to certain areas, like inland Papua.
If you’re coming from South America, you may be asked to show proof of the yellow fever vaccine. Always consult with your international vaccination center before traveling.
Depending on the areas you visit, you may encounter more or fewer mosquitoes, but using a repellent with DEET or Picaridin is always important.
It’s also recommended to wear long-sleeve clothing, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
It’s a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like antiseptic, antibiotic creams, and ear drops. Also, be sure to pack any personal medications you might need. Having these items on hand can be very helpful during your trip.
Keep in mind that small wounds in a tropical climate, especially with seawater, can get infected very quickly.
Having a good travel insurance is not only recommended, it’s essential. Medical care in Indonesia can be limited in some areas, and in case of an accident or serious illness, the right insurance guarantees fast access to top medical facilities or even evacuation if necessary.
Karang Travel recommends the IATI insurance as an affordable and reliable option. Treatments in international-standard hospitals in Indonesia can be extremely costly.
If you plan to dive, diving-specific insurance is mandatory at most resorts and liveaboard boats. We recommend DAN Europe.
Do not drink tap water anywhere in Indonesia! Always drink purified water, which is readily available in large dispensers at many places.
Try to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles to reduce plastic consumption. Even in small local restaurants, the water they serve is usually purified, not from the tap, as is the water used for ice. So, there’s typically no issue consuming it.
Stay well-hydrated, especially if you’re doing physical activities, diving, or spending time in the sun.
To stay connected, buy an eSim or a local SIM card upon arrival. Telkomsel is the best option, offering wide coverage throughout the country. Most hotels and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi.
A SIM card with a 20–30 GB data package for 30 days usually costs around 60,000–100,000 IDR.
Drones can be a great way to capture Indonesia’s stunning landscapes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. In many places, especially around temples, national parks, and villages, flying a drone may not be allowed or might require special permission.
Always be respectful of local communities and avoid flying over crowded areas. If you’re unsure, ask a local guide or staff before flying. Use your drone responsibly and discreetly to avoid any problems.
Foreign phones need to be registered with Indonesian customs if you plan to stay longer than 90 days or bring in a high-end device. For short trips, most tourists don’t have issues, especially if you buy a SIM at the airport or a shop with staff help.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated if you’re happy with the service. It’s more common to tip tour guides or drivers, especially if you spend several days with them.
Some higher-end restaurants already include a service charge on the bill.
Bargaining is common in Indonesia, especially in markets and souvenir shops. It’s good to compare prices, know what you’re willing to pay, and only start negotiating if you’re really interested in buying.
Be polite during the process, and remember that haggling over very small amounts, like 20,000 rupiah (less than €1.50), is often not worth it.
If you’re a smoker, be aware that there are designated smoking areas in public places. A large portion of the population smokes, and while it’s still allowed in many restaurants and bars, it’s becoming less socially accepted — so please be respectful of others.
Many hotels offer laundry services, but there are also plenty of local laundry shops in tourist areas. The price per kilo of clothing can be as low as 10,000 IDR (less than €1).
We hope you enjoyed our guide to Indonesia and learned something new along the way. Indonesia is more than a destination — it’s a journey through diverse cultures, warm hospitality, and rich traditions. Stay curious, connect with the people, and let the culture become part of your adventure.
Inspired to visit Indonesia? We’ll help you plan the perfect trip.
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