Indonesia travel guide

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all travel

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, East Nusa Tenggara 

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on 3 November 2024.

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. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

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.

About FCDO travel advice  

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

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Indonesia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Indonesian Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Indonesia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Indonesia.

You can get a 30-day visa on arrival (VOA) for:

• tourism or visiting
• business or an official meeting
• procurement of goods
• official visits or government duties

The VOA costs 500,000 Indonesian rupiah, payable in cash or by card. It is valid for single entry only. You must meet passport validity requirements and have a return or onward ticket. Most of the main airports and ports issue VOAs.

You can also apply for a visa at least a week before you leave on the Indonesian immigration website. You will find options to apply for a multiple-entry visa or a 60-day visa.

Extending your visa or residence permit

The 30-day visa can be extended once, for another 30 days, at any immigration office within Indonesia. If you applied online, you can get the extension on the Indonesian immigration website.

Make sure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine of 1 million rupiah a day.

KITAS extension (stay or work permit)

If you’re a KITAS holder with an expired stay permit, you can apply for an extension from outside Indonesia through a sponsor. The sponsor must submit the application to the immigration office attaching a copy of your passport and proof of your departure from Indonesia. The application is submitted without biometric sampling. The sponsor must report your arrival within 30 days.  

Visa scams

Beware of visa scams by fake visa agents who, having taken your money, may fail to provide a visa or supply the wrong visa. This could result in you overstaying and getting a fine of 1 million rupiah a day, plus possible deportation and a re-entry ban. Use the Indonesian immigration website to get or extend your visa.

Visa scams are increasing in Indonesia. Some travellers have lost significant amounts of money. Others have been deported despite paying a large fee to an agent to get the correct visa or extension.

Overstaying your visa

If you overstay your visa, you risk a heavy fine, possible lengthy detention (limited access to health care facilities and space) and deportation.

If your visa will expire during a period of hospitalisation or detention, contact Indonesian immigration before your visa expires to avoid any overstay fines.

Find more information about visa overstay and deportation and how the British Embassy in Jakarta can help.

Health Pass requirements

To enter Indonesia, all international travellers must fill out an electronic self-declaration form called SATUSEHAT Health Pass. It is recommended that you complete this form prior to departure to avoid delays when arriving in Indonesia.

Registering with the police 

If you stay in private accommodation in Indonesia, you must register your presence with the local police at the nearest police station. You could be fined 5 million Indonesian rupiah if you do not register. If you’re staying in a hotel, you will be registered automatically.

Bali tourist levy

The Bali provincial government has introduced a tourist levy of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (approximately £8) for all foreign tourists arriving in Bali. You can pay online or on arrival. See the Bali provincial government website for more details.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Indonesia, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Indonesia guide.

Departure tax

Airport tax is included in the cost of all domestic flights within Indonesia. For some international flights departing Indonesia, airport departure tax might not be included in the price of the ticket. Check with your airline or travel agent before you travel.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Indonesia.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Indonesia   

The threat from Islamist extremism remains high, though the Indonesian authorities continue to disrupt attack planning. Indonesian authorities report multiple arrests of alleged terrorists in the advanced stages of preparation.

Indonesian government and law enforcement interests and places of worship are regularly targeted by extremists. Western interests are also at risk. Small-scale attacks occur on a regular basis and further incidents are likely. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Potential targets include:

• beach resorts
• hotels, bars and restaurants
• markets and shopping malls hosting major international brand outlets
• tourist attractions
• places of worship
• foreign embassies
• polling stations
• ferry terminals and airports

There’s a heightened risk on and around:

• Christmas, New Year and Easter
• Chinese New Year
• Nyepi (Balinese New Year)
• Islamic celebrations and holidays such as Ramadan
• national and local elections
• presidential inaugurations
• Independence Day (17 August)

Follow the advice of the local authorities, and stay alert in crowded places and at large gatherings.

Recent attacks include:

• in 2022, a suicide bomber attacked a police post on Jalan Astana Anyar, in Bandung, West Java, killing one and injuring 8 people
• in 2021, there was a suicide attack outside the Catholic Cathedral Church at JaIan Kajaolalido, Makassar
• in 2020, a police officer was killed and another injured during an attack on a police station in Kalimantan
• in 2019, a suicide bomber attacked police headquarters in Medan, Sumatra, injuring 4 police officers and 2 civilians

Political situation

The political situation in Indonesia is stable. However, elections, presidential inaugurations and external developments, including in the Middle East, can trigger protests or unrest. Nationwide student protests took place in 2019 and 2020, and could recur at any time.

Indonesia held national elections on 14 February.  

Avoid all protests, demonstrations and student and political rallies as they can become violent without warning.

Crime

Sexual assault

Reported cases of rape and sexual assault are high in Bali and Lombok. Be alert when out at night, and avoid areas that are poorly lit.

If you call a taxi, use only registered companies, such as Bluebird, Silverbird or Express, and check the driver’s identity. If you book with a mobile app, check the driver is the same as the person on the app, and share your journey with a friend using the app. Be wary of drivers claiming to be registered with app companies and trying to pick up passengers on the street.

Drink spiking

There have been reports of drink spiking linked to sexual assault in Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.

Watch your drinks being prepared, and do not leave them unattended. Do not accept drinks from strangers at clubs or parties.

Tourists have been assaulted or robbed after taking visitors to their hotel rooms, and in some cases have found that their drinks were spiked.

Protecting your belongings

Be aware of the risk of street crime such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing, particularly in busy tourist areas. There are often reports of bag-snatching in Bali. Conceal your bag as much as possible to reduce the risk. Carry only essential items and take care of your passport and bank cards.

Beware of thieves on public transport and at transport hubs. If you’re travelling by car, keep doors locked while driving.

Scams

Credit card fraud is common. Do not lose sight of your card during transactions. Criminals sometimes place a fake telephone number on ATMs advising customers to report problems so they can fraudulently ask for card details.

Unlicensed money changers may short-change you. Only use licensed currency exchanges, identified by a Bank of Indonesia logo and a QR code. Open the code to check the name of the business and its operating licence.

There has been a rise in the number of scams at tattoo parlours, nail salons and spas in Bali. Take care when choosing your provider and agree fees in advance.

Alcoholic drinks and drugs

Drinks served in bars can be stronger than those in the UK, usually because the measures of spirits are larger. In some cases, over-drinking and taking drugs has resulted in accidents, injuries, robbery, assaults and lost travel documents. Some British nationals have suffered psychiatric problems caused by alcohol, drugs and a lack of sleep. Drink responsibly and be aware of your limits.

Methanol poisoning   

People, including British nationals, have died or suffered serious illness in Indonesia after drinking spirits that contain methanol due to inadequate distillation.

Methanol poisoning cases have resulted from drinks purchased in bars, shops and hotels in tourist areas like Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands and Sumatra. Criminal gangs make counterfeit replicas of well-known alcohol brands and these could contain high amounts of methanol.

Affected drinks have included:

• local spirits, including arak/arrack (a local rice or palm liquor)
• spirit-based mixed drinks, such as cocktails
• counterfeit brand-name bottled alcohol in shops or behind the bar

To protect yourself from methanol poisoning:

• buy alcoholic beverages only from licensed liquor stores
• buy drinks only at licensed bars and hotels
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks
• check bottle seals are intact
• check labels for poor print quality or incorrect spelling

Methanol is tasteless and odourless. TravelHealthPro lists the symptoms of methanol poisoning. Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show signs of methanol poisoning.

Laws and cultural differences

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. Ramadan in Indonesia is from 1 March to 29 March 2025. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
• be patient and show tolerance

Balinese New Year

During Balinese New Year (‘Nyepi’), local custom requires that all people in Bali observe a day of silence by staying indoors, turning off lights, and making no noise. Ngurah Rai International Airport is closed for the entire day. However, emergency services and hospitals are allowed to operate.

Personal ID

You must always carry your passport or stay permit (such as KITAS or KITAP).

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not get involved with illegal drugs. Possession, trafficking and manufacture of any illegal drugs are serious offences in Indonesia. The Indonesian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy and those caught face lengthy prison sentences or a death penalty, usually after a protracted and expensive legal process. British nationals have been caught and given significant prison sentences for drug offences in Indonesia. Criminal gangs in the UK and elsewhere are known to coerce people into carrying drugs across borders. Do not allow yourself to be persuaded.

If you are detained by the police, it is important to be aware of your rights. To assist you, we have a guide to the legal and detention systems in Indonesia. The British Embassy strongly encourages adherence to local laws and regulations. Any payments requested after arrest, that you agree to, are at your own discretion. 

In some venues in Jakarta and Bali, drugs may be handed out as free samples. Police often raid venues (particularly in Bali) known to be frequented by foreigners. You may have to take a urine or blood test if there is a reasonable suspicion that drugs have been used, and you will be arrested if the test is positive.

Alcohol laws and bans

The province of Aceh enforces Sharia law. It is the only province in Indonesia to do so and the laws apply to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

In Aceh, the consumption, production and distribution of alcohol are all illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process is public caning.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the province of Aceh under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process includes public caning, a prison sentence or a fine payable in gold.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Gambling

In the province of Aceh gambling is illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process includes public caning, a prison sentence or a fine payable in gold.

Extra-marital sex

In the province of Aceh, extra-marital sex is illegal under Sharia law and punishable by public caning after a Sharia court process.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. If you’re caught buying or smuggling illegal wildlife products, you’ll be prosecuted and could receive a prison sentence and a fine.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Indonesia, see information on driving abroad.

You cannot drive using your UK driving licence. You can drive using an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the UK.  UK nationals who live in Indonesia and have a limited stay permit card (KITAS) can apply for an Indonesian national driving licence.

Before driving, riding or hiring any type of vehicle, ensure that you have the appropriate licence to do so. Check you are covered with your travel insurance company.

Driving conditions

Traffic discipline is very poor and there has been a large increase in moped and motorbike accidents – some fatal – in Bali. Wear a helmet in good condition if you’re riding a motorbike or moped.

Foreign nationals involved in even minor traffic violations or accidents may be vulnerable to extortion. Some multinational companies do not allow their expatriate staff to drive in Indonesia. Consider employing a private driver or hiring a car with a driver. 

If you’re involved in an accident, you must wait for the police at the scene. If you have concerns for your safety, move to another location. Make sure someone stays to watch your vehicle if it will not drive. Report the accident at a police station and show full co-operation. 

Sea travel

Travelling by boat or ferry can be dangerous as the sea conditions can change rapidly. Safety standards vary between providers. Vessels can be crowded and overloaded and are often poorly maintained.

Before you travel, check the availability of safety equipment such as life jackets and lifeboats. Life jackets suitable for children are not always available so you may need to bring your own. Avoid travelling after dark unless you’re satisfied the vessel is suitably equipped.

There is a high level of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around the Sulu and Celebes seas and in the Malacca Straits. 

Mariners should be vigilant, set up secure areas on board and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Volcanic eruptions

Check Regional risks for warnings against travel to specific volcanoes.

There are lots of active volcanoes in Indonesia. They can erupt without warning and eruptions have caused destruction and fatalities. The authorities usually evacuate villages within a 3km to 7km radius of the eruption.

There are 4 numbered volcano alert levels:

1. Normal
2. Advisory
3. Watch
4. Warning

Check news reports and updates on volcanic activity (in Bahasa language) before travelling to areas that are prone to volcanic activity.

While near any volcano, you should:

• respect exclusion zones
• monitor local media
• stay alert and listen to any local warnings
• follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders

Sometimes valleys beyond local exclusion zones are affected by mud and debris flows. Volcanic ash may fall outside exclusion zones.

Ash clouds can affect flight schedules and the operation of regional airports. Check with your airline or travel company for the latest information.

Ash plumes and pollutants from volcanoes can affect air quality and have an impact on health. A fitted face mask may provide some protection from airborne particles. To reduce exposure to hazardous gases, stay inside and close doors and windows. Masks will be available in Indonesia – or buy your own before you travel.

If you have any pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, you might be at increased risk of triggering or worsening your symptoms. Make sure you travel with enough of your regular medicines.

Flooding

The rainy season runs from September to January or February.

Flash floods and widespread flooding can occur across Indonesia. Cities, especially Jakarta, can suffer severe localised flooding resulting in major traffic congestion and power outages. The main toll road to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and other major roads in Jakarta can be affected by flooding. There are landslides in mountainous and remote areas, but also in some urban areas. 

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes happen regularly. If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, follow the instructions of local authorities, bearing in mind that a tsunami could arrive within minutes. The Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is imminent or expected.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami.

Wildfires

Wildfires in Indonesia’s forests are most severe during the dry season, from May to November. Many fires burn all year in the peat-rich soil.

The fires, mostly on Sumatra and Borneo, generate a widespread haze that affects air quality throughout the country. See Health.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Scuba diving

Diving school standards are not always as high as in the UK. You should:

• check a dive operator’s credentials
• make sure you’re covered by insurance
• make sure safety equipment is available on the boat, particularly oxygen
• ask about safety precautions, including the ability to transfer divers to a hyperbaric chamber

If you have not had any previous diving experience:

• ask your dive instructor to explain what cover they offer before signing up
• check what to do if something goes wrong, including how to call for help while at sea

This section has safety advice for regions of Indonesia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Volcanic activity

See Extreme weather and natural disasters.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, East Nusa Tenggara 

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara province. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.  

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on 3 November 2024.

Mount Sinabung, North Sumatra

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

Mount Sinabung erupted in 2021, sending a large column of smoke and ash into the sky.

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 Marapi erupted in December 2023.

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 Semeru erupted in 2022, emitting a 1,500m (4,921ft) high ash cloud. Indonesian authorities have set the alert level to 4 (of 4), warning of the potential for hot pyroclastic flows and lava flows along rivers, tributaries and valleys around Mount Semeru. The most likely affected are Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar and Besuk Sat.

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.

Mount Agung, Bali

In 2018, Mount Agung in East Bali erupted, emitting gas and ash which resulted in the closure of Bali’s airport and a number of nearby regional airports for a period of time.

Further disruption cannot be ruled out. The local authorities have indicated that Mount Agung continues to show signs of volcanic activity and the possibility of volcanic eruptions remains.

Climbers are recommended to limit activity around the crater. An alert could be issued at short notice. See more information on travel during volcanic activity.

Aceh

Aceh has emerged from a long period of internal conflict. Although violence against foreigners is rare, a British national was abducted in 2013 and there were 3 separate incidents in 2009 targeting foreigners. There have been reports of Sharia (religious) police harassing foreigners.

Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence. Take particular care in remote areas. Keep up to date with local developments and avoid large crowds, especially political rallies.

Sharia law is in force in Aceh. See Safety and security.

Central Sulawesi Province

The political situation in Central Sulawesi Province is unsettled. Take particular care in Palu, Poso and Tentena. Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence.

There is conflict between the Indonesian security forces and terrorists, including attacks on police and civilians in 2021. This conflict is predominantly in the Sigi, Parigi Moutong and Poso regions.

Maluku Islands

The Maluku Islands have experienced unrest and violence between different religious and tribal groups. Take particular care in Ambon Island, and also in Haruku Island (Pulau Haruku).

Papua region

Armed Papuan separatist groups are fighting for independence from Indonesia in the region of Papua. Violence has been steadily increasing since 2018. The Indonesian government has a heavy security presence throughout the region especially in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces and along the border with Papua New Guinea.

There are regular armed clashes between Papuan separatist groups (known as the TPNPB-OPM) and government security forces, mainly in the regions of Highland Papua and Central Papua.

Clashes have resulted in civilian deaths, including foreign nationals. In 2020, a New Zealand national was shot dead and a number of Indonesian nationals were wounded in a mining facility in Highland Papua Province.

In February 2023:

• a New Zealand national was kidnapped by a separatist group in Nduga, Highland Papua Province
• the TPNPB-OPM issued a statement that foreigners in the Papua region would be targeted

There have been several instances of Papuan separatists attacking commercial aircraft that service remote communities from small local airfields, especially in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces. This includes aircraft which are regularly used for transport by foreign nationals and those working in the region.

Political tensions have also led to violent demonstrations in cities across Papua, which have turned violent at short notice. Take local advice to help you avoid possible demonstrations and political rallies. Internet communications might be switched off in areas where demonstrations are planned. Make plans in advance in case you are affected.

The security situation in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces is unpredictable and can change quickly. Take local advice to understand current tensions.   

In 2022, the Indonesian government passed new legislation to reform the governance and administration of the Papua region. Papua and West Papua have been reorganised into 6 provinces:

• Papua
• West Papua
• Central Papua
• Highland Papua
• South Papua
• Southwest Papua

If you have previously travelled to the area, make sure you check the updated map.

The UK government has no permanent presence in the region. Support for British nationals is managed remotely from Jakarta. There are limited hospital facilities in the region. If you need emergency medical treatment, you are likely to be medically evacuated to Darwin in Australia.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 118 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks   

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Indonesia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Indonesia, including:

• poor air quality
• Zika virus
• malaria
• dengue

Air pollution

Air quality in Indonesia’s major cities can reach levels classed as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ or ‘unhealthy’. You can check current air quality data for Jakarta on the Air Quality Index website.

Ash plumes from volcanoes can have an impact on health, particularly for anyone with pre-existing respiratory conditions. If you’re affected, get advice on how to prepare and cope with ash fall. 

During the dry season from May to November, widespread wildfires cause smoke haze, which drifts across parts of Indonesia, particularly Riau Islands, central Sumatra and Kalimantan. The haze can cause disruption to local and regional air travel, and the air pollution has an impact on public health. Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions. A regional haze map is available from the Singapore Meteorological Service.

Tap water

Tap water is not safe to drink in Indonesia.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Indonesia. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Rabies

 There are many street dogs in Bali and elsewhere, and monkeys around temples and tourist areas. Rabies exists in both wild and domestic animals, including pets. Seek immediate medical assistance if you’re bitten or scratched.

 Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

Healthcare in Indonesia

The standard of local medical care can be poor and some medical tests cannot be performed reliably. Psychological and psychiatric services are also limited.

Good medical care can be expensive. In remote areas, you may not be able to get treatment for serious injuries or illness. Medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of pounds. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Indonesia where some staff will speak English.

See guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Indonesia.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Indonesia

Ambulance: 118

Fire: 112

Police: 110

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually need you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO provides guidance on how to help yourself stay safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Indonesia
• dealing with a death in Indonesia
• being arrested in Indonesia
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow FCDO: 

• travel advice on X

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Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Indonesia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.