Superlative spas, temple-studded hills, and beaches for days: Indonesia is the very definition of a tropical escape. This nation of more than 18,000 islands is one of supreme diversity, with an array of cities, villages, food and adventures of every stripe.
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did you know?
Indonesia is comprised of more than 18,000 islands. Five of these islands are home to the Komodo dragon: the world’s largest lizard.
QUICK GUIDE
WHEN TO GO
Travel to Indonesia during its dry season, which starts in May and ends in October. The ideal months to visit the country and avoid throngs are tourists are May, June and September.
NEED TO KNOW
Visas: Travelers will need a valid passport good for six months beyond the date of arrival. Visa Exemption is a no-fee stamp placed in your passport upon arrival for travelers staying less than 30 days; no extensions are allowed and no adjustment to another visa status permitted. Visa-on-Arrival: This is a paid visa issued upon arrival valid for up to 30 days for tourism, family visitation, and other purposes. You may extend a Visa-on-Arrival one time for a maximum of 30 additional days, for another fee.
Money: Currency is the rupiah (Rp) and ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas.
Travel Health: Check with Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism website for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.
GETTING AROUND
Getting Here: For visitors heading to Bali, Denpasar Airport, also known as Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is 13km (8 miles) southwest of Denpasar.
Getting Around: Garuda Indonesia is the state-operated airline and offers domestic flights within Indonesia. The country’s major cities and remote islands are also connected via other carriers as well, such as Lion Air and AirAsia. Indonesia’s many islands are serviced by a vast network of ferries and boats. The islands of Java and Sumatra both have train service via the national railway, Kereta Api.
LOCAL INTEL
Local Lingo: Indonesian is the primary spoken language. Learn a few phrases before your trip. Selamat pagi, selamat siang, selamat malam: Good morning, good afternoon, good evening. Terima kasih: Thank you. Apa kabar?: How are you?
Must-Have App: MyTelkomsel; Waze; WhatsApp
Insider Tip: Plan a visit to the exquisite Borobudur Temple. This 7th-century temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.