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Indonesia
- Social unrest and natural disasters are the major risks to travelers in Indonesia, though petty crime remains a concern in crowded markets, public transport and tourist sites.
- There is a moderate risk of terrorism in Indonesia due to the presence of several extremist groups; however, robust counter-terrorism operations have reduced these groups' operational capabilities in recent years. Key targets in recent years include local security forces and places of worship.
- Social unrest is usually triggered by socioeconomic and religious issues and large-scale industrial action is common. Demonstrations can be highly disruptive and can occasionally lead to violence.
- The main risks facing travelers to Bali are petty criminality, particularly around popular tourist sites. Travelers to Bali are less likely to face risks associated with civil unrest, though Bali is a volcanic island and eruptions at Mount Agung can cause significant disruption.
Risk Factors
- Due to perceived wealth, foreign nationals may be targets of petty criminality, such as snatch-and-grab attacks and pickpocketing; motorcycle-borne criminals are known to snatch bags from pedestrians. Avoid displaying valuables and exercise vigilance in crowded areas and on public transport.
- ATM skimming has been on the rise, use secure ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas.
- Avoid walking alone at night in unpopulated or poorly lit areas, to include beaches.
- Although violent criminality affecting travelers is uncommon, a risk nonetheless persists. If confronted, do not resist a robbery attempt, as it is more likely to escalate to violence.
- Road safety and conditions vary from good to hazardous in remote locations. Overland travel should be undertaken during the day. A common practice is to hire a reputable personal driver who can navigate the unique landscape, particularly for travel to rural areas. Self-driving is discouraged.
- Unregistered or fraudulent taxis have been known to pick up passengers for the purpose of robbery or scams. Booking taxis through a reputable hotel or agency is generally safer than hailing a taxi from the street. In major cities, ride-sharing apps (e.g., Grab) are a reliable alternative to taxis.
- Indonesia lies on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, making it highly susceptible to seismic activity and tsunamis. Higher-magnitude earthquakes have previously triggered destructive tsunamis.
- Indonesia is home to the most active volcanoes in the world and periods of heightened volcanic activity can cause significant disruption, casualties and mass evacuations.
- Indonesia is also affected by other weather-related risks, such as flooding and landslides. The rainy season runs from November until March and can cause flooding in urban centers, such as Jakarta, where many communities reside in low-lying areas.
- The risks of crime, terrorism and social unrest are heightened in the six provinces of Papua where a low-level insurgency is ongoing.
- The risk of kidnapping is also higher in Papua, where separatist groups have targeted foreign nationals in recent years. Communal clashes between tribal communities also occur in Papua and can present risks to bystanders.
- Societal and cultural issues in the province of Aceh pose risks to foreign travelers due to the prevalence of conservative social and legal norms.