Indonesia
UK Foreign Office travel advice · 10 June 2026
Current safety guidance for Indonesia from UK Foreign Office travel advice. We cover 3 cities in Indonesia, with reported scams for each.
Source: Indonesia travel advice — UK Foreign Office travel advice
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
There have been reports of drink spiking linked to sexual assault in Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands.
Watch your drinks being prepared, and do not leave them unattended. Do not accept drinks from strangers at clubs or parties.
Tourists have been assaulted or robbed after taking visitors to their hotel rooms, and in some cases have found that their drinks were spiked.
Credit card fraud is common. Do not lose sight of your card during transactions. Criminals sometimes place a fake telephone number on ATMs advising customers to report problems so they can fraudulently ask for card details.
Unlicensed money changers may short-change you. Only use licensed currency exchanges, identified by a Bank of Indonesia logo and a QR code. Open the code to check the name of the business and its operating licence.
There has been a rise in the number of scams at tattoo parlours, nail salons and spas in Bali. Take care when choosing your provider and agree fees in advance.
Drinks served in bars can be stronger than those in the UK, usually because the measures of spirits are larger. In some cases, excessive drinking and taking drugs has resulted in accidents, injuries, robbery, assaults and lost travel documents. Some British nationals have suffered psychiatric problems caused by alcohol, drugs and a lack of sleep. Drink responsibly and be aware of your limits.
This guide also has safety advice for regions of Indonesia.
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Indonesia.
The threat from Islamist extremism remains high, though the Indonesian authorities continue to disrupt attack planning. Indonesian authorities report multiple arrests of alleged terrorists in the advanced stages of preparation.
Indonesian government and law enforcement interests and places of worship are regularly targeted by extremists. Western interests are also at risk. Small-scale attacks occur on a regular basis and further incidents are likely. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Potential targets include:
There’s a heightened risk on and around:
Follow the advice of the local authorities, and stay alert in crowded places and at large gatherings.
Recent attacks include:
The political situation in Indonesia is stable. However, elections, internal and external developments, including in the Middle East, can trigger protests or unrest.
Avoid all protests, demonstrations and student and political rallies as they can become violent without warning.
Reported cases of rape and sexual assault are high in Bali and Lombok. Be alert when out at night, and avoid areas that are poorly lit.
If you call a taxi, use only registered companies, such as Bluebird, Silverbird or Express, and check the driver’s identity. If you book with a mobile app, check the driver is the same as the person on the app, and share your journey with a friend using the app. Be wary of drivers claiming to be registered with app companies and trying to pick up passengers on the street.
Be aware of the risk of street crime such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing, particularly in busy tourist areas. There are often reports of bag-snatching in Bali. Conceal your bag as much as possible to reduce the risk. Carry only essential items and take care of your passport and bank cards.
Beware of thieves on public transport and at transport hubs. If you’re travelling by car, keep doors locked while driving.
There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Indonesia.
Methanol poisoning cases have resulted from drinks purchased in licensed bars, shops and hotels in tourist areas. Criminal gangs make counterfeit replicas of well-known alcohol brands and these could contain high amounts of methanol.
Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. Ramadan in Indonesia is from 19 February to 20 March 2026. During this time, do not:
Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
You should also:
Balinese New Year (‘Nyepi’) is on 19 March 2026. During this time, local custom requires that all people in Bali observe a day of silence by staying indoors, turning off lights, and making no noise. Ngurah Rai International Airport is closed for the entire day. However, emergency services and hospitals are allowed to operate.
You must always carry your passport or stay permit (such as KITAS or KITAP).
Do not get involved with illegal drugs in Indonesia. Possession, using, making or trafficking illegal drugs is a serious crime. The Indonesian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy and those caught may face long prison sentences or the death penalty. Legal cases can be lengthy and costly.
Cannabis and cannabis-based products, including medicinal cannabis, cannabis-based oils and creams, hemp-based products, CBD, THC, hash and edibles, are illegal in Indonesia. This applies whether it is carried in a bottle, vape, or any other form. The NHS has guidance explaining how cannabis oils differ and the risks they may carry.
British nationals have been caught and given long prison sentences for drug offences. Criminal groups sometimes pressure people into carrying drugs across borders. Do not allow yourself to be persuaded.
Airports in Indonesia have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items, including cannabis. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
If you are detained by the police, it is important to understand your rights. The British embassy provides a guide to the legal and detention systems in Indonesia, but you must follow local laws and regulations. Any payments requested after arrest, that you agree to, are at your own discretion.
In some venues drugs may be offered as free samples. Police often raid venues popular with foreigners, especially in Bali. If police suspect drug use, you may be required to take a urine or blood test. A positive result will lead to arrest.
The province of Aceh enforces Sharia law. It is the only province in Indonesia to do so and the laws apply to both Muslims and non-Muslims.
In Aceh, the consumption, production and distribution of alcohol are all illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process is public caning.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the province of Aceh under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process includes public caning, a prison sentence or a fine payable in gold.
Across Indonesia, there have been reports of police arresting individuals at LGBT+ events. Some laws and regulations, including those related to pornography and prostitution, have been applied in a way that discriminates against the LGBT+ community.
You should exercise caution and discretion, particularly in public spaces.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
In the province of Aceh gambling is illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process includes public caning, a prison sentence or a fine payable in gold.
In the province of Aceh, extra-marital sex is illegal under Sharia law and punishable by public caning after a Sharia court process.
Indonesia’s new criminal code imposes penalties for cohabitation and sex outside of marriage if certain members of either party’s immediate family file a complaint.
It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. If you’re caught buying or smuggling illegal wildlife products, you’ll be prosecuted and could receive a prison sentence and a fine.
If you are planning to drive in Indonesia, see information on driving abroad.
You cannot drive using your UK driving licence. You can drive using an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the UK. UK nationals who live in Indonesia and have a limited stay permit card (KITAS) can apply for an Indonesian national driving licence.
Before driving, riding or hiring any type of vehicle, ensure that you have the appropriate licence to do so. Check you are covered with your travel insurance company.
Traffic discipline is very poor and there has been a large increase in moped and motorbike accidents – some fatal – in Bali. Wear a helmet in good condition if you’re riding a motorbike or moped.
Foreign nationals involved in even minor traffic violations or accidents may be vulnerable to extortion. Some multinational companies do not allow their expatriate staff to drive in Indonesia. Consider employing a private driver or hiring a car with a driver.
If you’re involved in an accident, you must wait for the police at the scene. If you have concerns for your safety, move to another location. Make sure someone stays to watch your vehicle if it will not drive. Report the accident at a police station and show full co-operation.
Travelling by boat or ferry can be dangerous as the sea conditions can change rapidly. Safety standards vary between providers. Vessels can be crowded and overloaded and are often poorly maintained.
Before you travel, check the availability of safety equipment such as life jackets and lifeboats. Life jackets suitable for children are not always available so you may need to bring your own. Avoid travelling after dark unless you’re satisfied the vessel is suitably equipped.
There is a high level of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around the Sulu and Celebes seas and in the Malacca Straits.
Mariners should be vigilant, set up secure areas on board and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.
Indonesia regularly experiences natural disasters such as severe weather, floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis.
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Check Regional risks for warnings against travel to specific volcanoes.
There are lots of active volcanoes in Indonesia. They can erupt without warning and eruptions have caused destruction and fatalities. The authorities usually evacuate villages within a 3km to 7km radius of the eruption.
There are 4 numbered volcano alert levels:
Check news reports and updates on volcanic activity (in Bahasa language) before travelling to areas that are prone to volcanic activity.
While near any volcano, you should:
Sometimes valleys beyond local exclusion zones are affected by mud and debris flows. Volcanic ash may fall outside exclusion zones.
Ash clouds can affect flight schedules and the operation of regional airports. Check with your airline or travel company for the latest information.
Ash plumes and pollutants from volcanoes can affect air quality and have an impact on health. A fitted face mask may provide some protection from airborne particles. To reduce exposure to hazardous gases, stay inside and close doors and windows. Masks will be available in Indonesia – or buy your own before you travel.
If you have any pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, you might be at increased risk of triggering or worsening your symptoms. Make sure you travel with enough of your regular medicines.
The rainy season usually runs from October to March. The wet season can be different in Eastern Indonesia, which usually runs from April to August.
Flash floods and widespread flooding can occur across Indonesia, damaging infrastructure, and causing injury and loss of life. There are landslides in mountainous and remote areas, but also in some urban areas/cities, especially Jakarta, and the island of Bali, can suffer severe localised flooding resulting in major traffic congestion and power outages. The main toll road to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and other major roads in Jakarta can be affected by flooding.
Follow and monitor local and international weather updates. BMKG - Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency can be translated into English.
Earthquakes happen regularly. If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, follow the instructions of local authorities, bearing in mind that a tsunami could arrive within minutes. The Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Centre issues warnings when a potential tsunami with significant impact is imminent or expected. You can also use the BMKG Multi-Hazard Early Warning System app.
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami.
Wildfires in Indonesia’s forests are most severe during the dry season, usually from April to September. Many fires burn all year in the peat-rich soil.
The fires, mostly on Sumatra and Borneo, generate a widespread haze that affects air quality throughout the country.
Keep up to date with local information and seek medical advice on precautions. See Health.
More information is available from the ASEAN Regional Haze Situation.
Diving school standards are not always as high as in the UK. You should:
If you have not had any previous diving experience:
This section has safety advice for regions of Indonesia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
See Extreme weather and natural disasters.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara province. This aligns with an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on 17 June 2025. Indonesian authorities have raised the volcano status alert to the highest level (level 4), and have warned of potential mud and debris flows within the exclusion zone. There has been disruption to flights to and from the islands of Bali and Flores.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 5km of the crater of Mount Sinabung in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. This aligns with an exclusion zone put into place by the local authorities.
Mount Sinabung erupted in 2021, sending a large column of smoke and ash into the sky.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the crater of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra. This aligns with an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.
Mount Marapi erupted in December 2023.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
These areas align with exclusion zones put in place by the local authorities.
Mount Semeru erupted in 2022, emitting a 1,500m (4,921ft) high ash cloud. Indonesian authorities have set the alert level to 4 (of 4), warning of the potential for hot pyroclastic flows and lava flows along rivers, tributaries and valleys around Mount Semeru. The most likely affected are Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar and Besuk Sat.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ruang in Northern Sulawesi. This aligns with an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.
Mount Ruang erupted on 16 April 2024.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ibu in North Maluku Province. This aligns with an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.
Mount Ibu erupted on 6 June 2024.
In 2018, Mount Agung in East Bali erupted, emitting gas and ash which resulted in the closure of Bali’s airport and a number of nearby regional airports for a period of time.
Further disruption cannot be ruled out. The local authorities have indicated that Mount Agung continues to show signs of volcanic activity and the possibility of volcanic eruptions remains.
Climbers are recommended to limit activity around the crater. An alert could be issued at short notice.
For more information on how to be prepared for a volcanic eruption see Safety and security.
Aceh has emerged from a long period of internal conflict. Although violence against foreigners is rare, a British national was abducted in 2013 and there were 3 separate incidents in 2009 targeting foreigners. There have been reports of Sharia (religious) police harassing foreigners.
Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence. Take particular care in remote areas. Keep up to date with local developments and avoid large crowds, especially political rallies.
Sharia law is in force in Aceh. See Safety and security.
The political situation in Central Sulawesi Province is unsettled. Take particular care in Palu, Poso and Tentena. Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence.
There is conflict between the Indonesian security forces and terrorists, including attacks on police and civilians in 2021. This conflict is predominantly in the Sigi, Parigi Moutong and Poso regions.
The Maluku Islands have experienced unrest and violence between different religious and tribal groups. Take particular care in Ambon Island, and also in Haruku Island (Pulau Haruku).
Armed Papuan separatist groups are fighting for independence from Indonesia in the region of Papua. Violence has been steadily increasing since 2018. The Indonesian government has a heavy security presence throughout the region especially in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces and along the border with Papua New Guinea.
There are regular armed clashes between Papuan separatist groups (known as the TPNPB-OPM) and government security forces, mainly in the regions of Highland Papua and Central Papua.
Clashes have resulted in civilian deaths, including foreign nationals. In 2020, a New Zealand national was shot dead and a number of Indonesian nationals were wounded in a mining facility in Highland Papua Province.
In February 2023:
There have been several instances of Papuan separatists attacking commercial aircraft that service remote communities from small local airfields, especially in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces. This includes aircraft which are regularly used for transport by foreign nationals and those working in the region.
Political tensions have also led to violent demonstrations in cities across Papua, which have turned violent at short notice. Take local advice to help you avoid possible demonstrations and political rallies. Internet communications might be switched off in areas where demonstrations are planned. Make plans in advance in case you are affected.
The security situation in Highland Papua and Central Papua provinces is unpredictable and can change quickly. Take local advice to understand current tensions.
In 2022, the Indonesian government passed new legislation to reform the governance and administration of the Papua region. Papua and West Papua have been reorganised into 6 provinces:
If you have previously travelled to the area, make sure you check the updated map.
The UK government has no permanent presence in the region. Support for British nationals is managed remotely from Jakarta. There are limited hospital facilities in the region. If you need emergency medical treatment, you are likely to be medically evacuated to Darwin in Australia.
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