Indonesia travel guide for first-time visitors

For a first trip to Indonesia, most travellers start in Bali, flying into Denpasar, then add Java's temples or the Komodo islands on a 10 to 14-night trip. Before you go, check whether you need a visa or can use the IDR 500,000 visa on arrival, complete the free All Indonesia arrival card, and pay the IDR 150,000 Bali tourism levy online. Plan around the dry season from about April to October for the smoothest island hopping.

Who Indonesia suits

Indonesia suits honeymooners and couples looking for villas, spas and beaches; culture lovers drawn to Bali's temple ceremonies and Java's ancient monuments; and active travellers who want volcano sunrises, diving and boat trips to see Komodo dragons. Families do well in Bali, where transfers are short and many hotels cater for children. Wellness travellers will find yoga and retreat centres around Ubud.

Entry and visa overview

Entry rules depend on your nationality. As of November 2026, the main points for most holidaymakers are:

• Visa on arrival: eligible nationalities can buy a 30-day, single-entry visa on arrival for IDR 500,000, extendable once for a further 30 days. You can also apply online in advance via the official Indonesian immigration e-visa portal, at least a week before travel according to the UK government.
• All Indonesia arrival card: complete the free online customs and health declaration within 72 hours before arrival at the official arrival card site.
• Bali tourism levy: IDR 150,000 per person, payable through the provincial Love Bali portal.
• Passport: the UK government advises at least 6 months' validity on arrival and 2 blank pages.

Gateway airports

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar (DPS) is the main gateway for holidays, with direct flights from across Asia, the Gulf and Australia. Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is the country's largest hub. For domestic connections, Yogyakarta (YIA) serves Borobudur and Prambanan, Lombok (LOP) serves Lombok and the Gilis, and Labuan Bajo (LBJ) on Flores is the gateway to Komodo. Remember that Bali's airport closes for Nyepi, the Day of Silence, usually in March.

Money, language, power and time

Getting around

• Domestic flights are the quickest way between islands, for example Bali to Yogyakarta or Labuan Bajo.
• Fast boats link Bali with Nusa Penida, Lombok and the Gili Islands; the UK government warns that standards vary and sea conditions change quickly, so use reputable operators, check life jackets and avoid night crossings.
• In Bali, a private car and driver is the easiest way to explore; traffic in the south can be slow, so allow extra time.
• A UK driving licence is not valid in Indonesia; you need an International Driving Permit. Motorbike crashes in Bali have risen sharply, according to the UK government, so a driver is the safer option.
• Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps, particularly at night.

Suggested routes by trip length

In Ubud, the Tegallalang rice terraces and the Sacred Monkey Forest are easy half-day outings. Check the season for your chosen islands in our month-by-month guide to Indonesia, and see our Indonesia trip cost guide for budgets and fees.

Etiquette and culture

• Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim-majority country, while Bali is mainly Hindu; dress modestly away from the beach, especially in Java and Lombok.
• At temples, cover your shoulders and legs and wear a sarong and sash, which are usually provided or available to rent at the entrance.
• Do not climb on temple structures or sacred sites, and give way to ceremonies and processions.
• Use your right hand to give and receive things, and avoid pointing with your finger.
• During Ramadan, be discreet about eating and drinking in public in Muslim areas during daylight.

Health and safety

Check vaccinations with a travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you go. The UK government lists dengue, malaria and Zika among the health risks, advises against drinking tap water and warns that rabies is present: seek medical help immediately after any bite or scratch from a dog or monkey, including at temple sites. Comprehensive insurance is essential, as medical evacuation can be very expensive.

The UK government highlights a few specific risks: methanol in counterfeit alcohol, including in tourist venues; drink spiking; card fraud; and zero-tolerance drug laws, including for all cannabis products. Indonesia also has frequent earthquakes and active volcanoes, so follow local instructions and exclusion zones. Read the full UK travel advice for Indonesia or your own government's equivalent before you go.

Practical tips

• Save your arrival card, levy voucher and visa confirmation on your phone and on paper.
• Allow a buffer day around domestic flights to Labuan Bajo, as schedules can change.
• Carry small rupiah notes for temple donations, parking and market stalls.
• Book Komodo boat trips early in peak season, as daily visitor numbers are capped.
• If your dates include Nyepi, plan to stay put in your hotel for the day.

Ready to plan your first Indonesia adventure? Tailor an itinerary with a specialist or send a custom request for a more unusual route, such as Sumatra or Raja Ampat.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. GOV.UK — Indonesia travel advice: entry requirements
2. GOV.UK — Indonesia travel advice: safety and security
3. GOV.UK — Indonesia travel advice: health
4. Love Bali — Bali Provincial Government tourism levy
5. Trip.com — Indonesia plug types and voltage