Indonesia Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go?

Indonesia's tropical climate means it experiences both sunshine and showers throughout the year depending on where and when you go. In general there is a wet and a dry season, with the driest months in Java, Lombok and Bali from May to September. Further east, islands like Papua have their dry season from October to April.

Do you need a visa?

You can get a 30-day visa on arrival in Indonesia at international airports and major ferry crossings. For some land border crossings, you need to arrange a visa in advance. You can also apply for a 60-day tourist visa in advance from the Indonesian embassies and consulates.

How can I get there?

Jakarta, the country's capital on the island of Java, is the main gateway to Indonesia, with international flights to and from the UK, often via Dubai or Singapore. From Jakarta airport, there are regular internal flights to key points all around Indonesia, including Bali, Kalimantan and Sumatra.

What is the local currency and what currency should I take?

The Indonesian national currency is the rupiah (Rp). Notes come in denominations of 2,000Rp, 5,000Rp, 10,000Rp, 20,000Rp, 50,000Rp, and 100,000Rp. Coins are less commonly used but 50Rp, 100Rp, 200Rp, 500Rp and 1,000Rp are in circulation. The exchange rate is around 15,400Rp to the UK pound or 9,600Rp to the US dollar, but check for current rates before you travel. US dollars are the best currency to take if you want to exchange in the country and cash machines are available in cities and major tourist areas.