Indonesia

The Land of Islands
and Idylls

Flag of Indonesia

Algeria, a country in North Africa, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and complex history. Home to iconic landmarks like the ancient Casbah of Algiers, the Roman ruins of Timgad, and the stunning Sahara Desert, Algeria offers a unique blend of historical wonders and natural beauty. The country's geography ranges from Mediterranean coastlines to the Atlas Mountains and vast desert expanses.

Algerian culture is a vibrant mix of Arab, Berber, and French influences, reflected in its art, music, and cuisine featuring dishes like couscous and tagine. Known for its warm hospitality, ancient rock art at Tassili n'Ajjer, and as the largest country in Africa, Algeria presents a captivating destination that combines centuries-old traditions with modern development, despite facing ongoing political and economic challenges.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Indonesia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Indonesia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from ASEAN countries (e.g., Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore) can enter Indonesia with a valid passport and stay for up to 30 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism. Additionally, nationals from certain countries (e.g., Japan, South Korea, UAE) are eligible for a 30-day visa-free entry for tourism purposes.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Indonesia, though many nationalities are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or an e-Visa.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; an Indonesian visa is required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; an Indonesian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; an Indonesian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Indonesia using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (Visa on Arrival or e-Visa, B211A for tourism). Can be single-entry, extendable once for another 30 days, with validity up to 60 days.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 60 days (e.g., social, business, or work visa). Valid for up to one year, allowing application for a residence permit (KITAS) for long-term stays.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are limited to 30 days for eligible nationalities (non-extendable). Visa on Arrival allows a 30-day stay, extendable once for another 30 days.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship and a KITAS permit. Travel to certain areas (e.g., Papua) may require additional permits.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Indonesia may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof.
Toll

Driving in Indonesia

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Indonesia has an extensive network of toll roads, primarily on Java and Sumatra, including:
    • Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road: Connecting Jakarta to Cikampek, a major route for travel to Bandung.
    • Trans-Sumatra Toll Road: A developing network with sections like the Medan-Binjai Toll Road.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car may pay approximately IDR 20,000-100,000 (Indonesian Rupiah) for a trip on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road. For the most current rates, visit the Indonesia Toll Road Authority (BPJT) website: https://bpjt.pu.go.id/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is accepted at most toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance; major toll roads increasingly accept cards, but cash is preferred.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: e-Toll cards (e.g., e-Money, Brizzi) are widely used and mandatory on many toll roads; purchase and top-up at convenience stores or via mobile apps like GoPay.

Driving in Indonesia

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for front-seat occupants, though enforcement varies.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40-50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (e.g., Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road)
  • Road conditions vary; major toll roads on Java are well-paved but congested, while rural roads, especially in Kalimantan or Papua, can be unpaved, narrow, or flooded during the rainy season (November-March).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 1 year. A local permit (KITAS holders) or Indonesian license is required for longer stays.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Indonesia does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on highways.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be chaotic due to heavy traffic, motorbikes, and pedestrians. Night driving is risky due to poor lighting and road hazards, especially in rural areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas (e.g., Jakarta, Bali), but connectivity can be spotty in rural regions; use apps like Google Maps or Waze and keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Indonesia Currency

The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000 IDR
  • Coins: 100, 200, 500, 1,000 IDR
  • Symbol: Rp (often written as IDR)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and money changers in major cities like Jakarta and Bali.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas (e.g., Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya) for direct IDR withdrawals, but may be scarce in rural regions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small establishments.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, particularly in tourist areas like Bali, but less common in rural regions. Digital payments like GoPay and OVO are popular in urban centers.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and in rural areas, as digital payments are not universal.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the IDR fluctuates against major currencies. Consider using apps like GoPay for convenience in cities.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank Indonesia website: https://www.bi.go.id/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Indonesia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Indonesia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including the death penalty for trafficking. Even small quantities can lead to life imprisonment.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted except in certain areas (e.g., Aceh, where Sharia law applies); public intoxication can lead to fines or detention.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in some tourist areas (e.g., parts of Bali).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs; dress modestly at religious sites (e.g., cover shoulders and knees at Borobudur or Uluwatu Temple). Avoid public displays of affection, especially in conservative areas like Aceh or rural Java.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are not illegal (except in Aceh under Sharia law), but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention or legal issues in conservative areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, and some religious sites (e.g., inside Pura Besakih in Bali). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially during ceremonies.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over IDR 100 million (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, pornography, and certain cultural artifacts (e.g., items from archaeological sites).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy or local tourism offices.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Kuta Beach in Bali, Pangandaran in Java) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Indonesia Travel Safety

Indonesia is generally safe for travellers, with moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Indonesia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing, bag-snatching) is common in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Tanah Abang in Jakarta) or tourist sites (e.g., Ubud in Bali). Violent crime against tourists is rare but can occur in urban centers.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Indonesia is considered moderately safe, with locals often eager to help. Female travelers should dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious of scams (e.g., in Bali’s Kuta area).
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to chaotic traffic, motorbikes, and pedestrians.
    • Avoid night driving due to poor road lighting and frequent accidents, especially in rural areas.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory but enforcement is lax.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water only (check the seal).
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food can be risky if not freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, malaria, and Zika, especially in rural areas and during the rainy season (November-March).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Mount Bromo, Mount Rinjani). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Siloam Hospitals in Jakarta and Bali offer good care. Rural areas often lack advanced medical services.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities like Jakarta and Bali; carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as rural care is limited.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 118 | Fire: 113 | Police: 110.
  • Tourist Police (Bali): +62 361 754 599.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Avoid self-driving; use motorbike rentals with caution (common in Bali) or hire a local driver. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks in areas like Mount Bromo or Mount Rinjani; volcanic activity can pose risks (check alerts).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid wearing revealing clothing; remove shoes when entering temples or homes.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Jakarta; monitor via the World Air Quality Index. Haze from forest fires (e.g., in Sumatra, Kalimantan) can occur during dry season (June-October).

Key Links

Flying to Indonesia

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