Travel Essentials

When it comes to travel destinations, there is almost no country like Indonesia that has everything for everyone, from breathtaking natural view to delectable cuisines. Destinations like Bali, Raja Ampat, and Toba Lake has long been a staple for travelers seeking new experiences.

Ready to explore Indonesia? There are some checklists that must be done before comparing the ticket price and starting your journey to ensuring smooth landing and comfortable experience in the world’s largest archipelago. Worry not, though, the checklists are pretty simple, and you will be ready in no time by reading this guide. Read on to start your journey to Indonesia.

Language

Bahasa Indonesia

There are hundreds of regional dialects and languages throughout Indonesia. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia. English is also widely spoken in non rural areas.

Common Phrases

Currency

Money

Notes come in denominations of Rp 1000, Rp 2000, Rp 5000, Rp 10.000, Rp 20.000, Rp 50.000, and Rp 100.000. Coins come in Rp 100, Rp 200, Rp 500, and Rp 1000.

Immigration

Visa Requirements

Free Visa (Visa Exemption), Visa on Arrival (VOA), and Visitor Visa are the most common types of Indonesian Visa for Tourists.

Check Visa Requirements

Communication

Wi-Fi & Phone

WiFi is common in more upmarket hotels or trendy coffee shops/eateries. Purchasing a local SIM card by Telkomsel Simpati could be an alternative.

More Info

Etiquette

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory. If you want to tip, perhaps provide 5-10% of the total bill.

Info About Tipping

Electricity

Plug Types

The standard electrical current in Indonesia is 220 volts and 50 Hz cycle power. Power types: C and F. Plug type C has two round pins and plug type F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side.

Water

Drinking Water

Water is not potable in Indonesia. Bottled water is recommended. Avoid drinking with ice cubes in rural areas.

Emergency

Useful Numbers

Main emergency number is 112. Ambulance is 118. Police is 110. Fire Department is 113. Make sure you use the country and area code depending on what SIM card or phone you are using.

Local Time

Time Zones

Indonesia is divided into 3 time zones: WIB which is Western Indonesia Time (GMT +7), WITA which is Central Indonesia Time (GMT +8), and WIT which is Eastern Indonesia Time (GMT +9).

Check Time Zones

Weather

Best Time To Go

Located right in the middle of the equator with sunlight all year-around. Indonesia has two seasons: hot or dry (May to September) and rain or wet (October to April). Dry season is the most popular and most comfortable time to visit.

Complete Weather Info

Format & Measurements

Dates & Metrics

The Indonesian date format is date-month-year, like 11 March, 2025 or 11/3/2025. Indonesia uses the metric system for weights & measures.

Payment Methods

Cash, Credit Card, Digital Payment

Cash is still the most used option and in many cases the only acceptable way of payment. Most hotels, trendy cafes, and big restaurants accept credit cards. E‑wallet apps are also available but could be arduous for visitors to set up.

Tobacco

Smoking

Smoking is relatively common in Indonesia. Lots of public places are facilitating a smoking room. You may ask for a non-smoking area when possible.

Drug Laws

Drugs & CBD

One of the countries with the strictest drug regulations in South East Asia. Indonesia does not allow the possession or trafficking of drugs or narcotics, including many recreational drugs or substances, such as cannabis derivatives or prescribed narcotics for legitimate consumption.