Population of approximately 278 million � The fourth most populous country, spread across over 17,000 islands.
Official Language: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) | Other Languages: Javanese, Sundanese, Madurese, Balinese, over 700 regional languages
Capital: Jakarta | Major Cities: Surabaya, Bandung, Medan, Semarang, Makassar
A vast archipelago with over 300 ethnic groups, Indonesia has rich traditions in batik, gamelan music, shadow puppetry, and dance. Islam is the dominant religion, but many Hindu and Christian traditions exist.
Indonesian rupiah (IDR); due to inflation, the currency has very large denominations.
Popular foods include nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled skewers), rendang (slow-cooked beef in coconut sauce), gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and tempeh.
Tropical climate: Hot and humid year-round with distinct wet (November-March) and dry (April-October) seasons; more rainfall in western regions.
Notable wildlife includes orangutans, Komodo dragons, Sumatran tigers, Javan rhinos, proboscis monkeys, and numerous bird species like the birds of paradise.
Cultural Considerations
Respect for religion: Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, and it�s important to respect Islamic customs. For example, dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection.
Modesty in dress: Modesty is highly valued, particularly in rural and religious areas. Women should avoid wearing short skirts and sleeveless tops in public.
Be cautious about touching the head: In Indonesian culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching someone�s head, especially children.
Don�t point with your feet: Pointing with your feet, especially in temples or towards others, is considered disrespectful in Indonesia.
Traffic chaos: Indonesia, especially Jakarta, is known for its heavy traffic. It's common to experience long travel times between destinations, so be prepared for delays.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
Indonesia has risks of malaria, dengue fever, and other mosquito-borne diseases, particularly in rural and tropical areas. Travelers should use insect repellent and take antimalarial medication. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water should be used. The healthcare system is good in major cities like Jakarta but limited outside urban areas, so travel insurance is recommended.