Is Indonesia safe to visit? Advice, scams and health

Indonesia is generally safe for tourists who use common sense. Most visits are trouble-free; the main risks are traffic accidents, petty theft, and natural hazards like earthquakes and volcanoes. Avoid protests, secure your belongings, and check your government's travel advisory before booking.

Most Western governments rate Indonesia as a place to exercise increased caution, not to avoid. The US State Department, UK Foreign Office, and Australian Smartraveller all advise normal precautions, with specific warnings for certain regions (check). The main concerns are terrorism, natural disasters, and crime in tourist areas.

Tourist scams in Indonesia are usually low-level and easy to spot. The most common are overpriced taxis, fake tour tickets, and 'friendship' offers that lead to a commission shop. Use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab for transport, buy tickets only from official counters, and politely decline unsolicited guides.

In Bali and other tourist hubs, watch for money-changing tricks, where a vendor shortchanges you or counts notes quickly. Always count your change, use official money changers, and avoid street vendors who approach you first. For ATMs, use machines inside banks or convenience stores to avoid skimming.

Health risks in Indonesia include dengue fever, malaria (in some areas), and traveller's diarrhoea. See a travel doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip for advice on vaccinations and malaria prevention. Drink bottled or filtered water, avoid ice from unknown sources, and eat at busy stalls where food is cooked to order.

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury for travellers. Scooters are everywhere, and roads can be chaotic. If you ride a scooter, wear a helmet, have an international driving permit, and consider that many travel insurance policies do not cover scooter accidents without a valid licence. For longer trips, use reputable drivers or buses.

Indonesia sits on the Ring of Fire, so earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are real risks. The government monitors volcanoes and issues alerts; if you're near an active volcano, follow local advice and evacuation routes. For tsunamis, move inland and to higher ground if you feel a strong earthquake near the coast.

The dry season (April–October) is generally safer for travel, but weather can be unpredictable. Check the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) for alerts. In the rainy season (November–March), some roads become impassable, and flights can be delayed.

Safety varies by region. Bali and Java's tourist centres are generally safe, with petty theft the main issue. Papua and Central Sulawesi have higher risks of civil unrest and terrorism; check your government's advice before travelling there. In remote areas, medical facilities are limited, so plan for emergencies.

In Jakarta and other big cities, be cautious at night, use ride-hailing apps, and avoid unlit areas. In Lombok and the Gilis, the main risks are boat safety and strong currents; use reputable operators and wear life jackets.

Common questions about safety in Indonesia.

This page was last checked in September 2026. Government travel advisories change frequently; always confirm with your own government's site before booking.