Indonesia is well-connected globally, especially through its main airports in Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya. 

Major international airlines flying into Indonesia include:

• Garuda Indonesia – The national flag carrier, offering routes across Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe.

• Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, Philippine Airlines – Key regional connections in Southeast Asia.

• Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines – Providing strong links from the Middle East and Europe.

• Japan Airlines, ANA, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, China Southern – Frequent connections from East Asia.

• Qantas, Jetstar, Air New Zealand – Serving routes from Australia and the Pacific region.

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – One of the few European airlines offering long-haul flights to Jakarta and Bali.

Indonesia has an extensive domestic flight network connecting its many islands. 

Key domestic airlines include:

• Garuda Indonesia – coverage of major and secondary cities.

• Citilink – A low-cost subsidiary of Garuda, with wide domestic reach.

• Lion Air – One of the largest domestic carriers, known for its competitive fares and frequent services.

• Batik Air – A full-service division of Lion Air, offering more comfort and amenities.

• AirAsia Indonesia – Budget-friendly and punctual, especially popular for connecting Bali, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta.

• Wings Air – A regional airline focused on short-haul and remote island routes.

Indonesia’s main international gateways include:

• Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) – Jakarta (Java) 

• Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) – Bali 

• Juanda International Airport (SUB) – Surabaya (East Java) 

• Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) – Medan (Sumatra) 

• Sam Ratulangi International Airport (MDC) – Manado (North Sulawesi) – a growing destination for regional travel, especially from East Asia.

Indonesia is primarily accessed by air or sea due to its island geography, but land-border crossings are possible in limited locations:

• From East Timor (Timor-Leste) – via the Motaain border crossing into West Timor (Indonesia).

• From Malaysia (Borneo) – several land border crossings connect Sarawak (Malaysia) with Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo), such as the Entikong-Tebedu crossing.

You must carry a valid passport, and in most cases, a visa or proof of visa exemption. Entry points typically have immigration and customs checks.

Upon arrival, you’ll typically need to:

• Present your passport which must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival and have two blank pages for stamps.

• Provide a visa or evidence of visa exemption/e-visa, depending on your nationality. Foreign nationals must complete the online Electronic Customs Declaration (e CD) up to 3 days prior and present the QR code upon arrival

• Complete a customs declaration (often available online in advance or at kiosks).

• Undergo health screening if required (especially post-COVID or in high-alert seasons).

• Proceed through immigration and collect baggage.

Some airports have automated e-gates for quicker processing for eligible travellers.

ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, airports, and tourist areas. 

Major Indonesian banks like Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, and Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) offer reliable ATM services. 

Most ATMs accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, etc.), though it's advisable to carry some cash when heading to rural or island destinations, where ATM access can be limited.

Given the tropical climate, light and breathable clothing is best. 

Cotton, linen, or bamboo fabrics work well. Modest dress is encouraged, particularly when visiting temples, mosques, or rural communities—covering shoulders and knees is respectful and often required. 

In highland areas, a light jacket or jumper is recommended for cooler evenings. 

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, swimwear, and a sunhat are travel staples.

• Routine vaccinations (such as MMR, DTP, polio) should be up to date.

• Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis (especially for extended stays in rural areas).

• Rabies vaccination is suggested for those spending time in remote areas or working with animals.

• Mosquito protection is essential—use repellent and consider antimalarial medication for certain areas (e.g. Papua, Kalimantan).

• Bahasa Indonesia is the official language and widely spoken throughout the archipelago.

• English is commonly understood in major tourist areas, hotels, and among younger Indonesians.

• In more rural areas, local languages or dialects (like Javanese, Balinese, or Sundanese) are often spoken.

• Some Dutch, Mandarin, or Arabic may be heard in specific communities or religious contexts.

The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). 

Cash is still preferred in many areas, especially markets and smaller towns. 

Credit cards are accepted in hotels, malls, and restaurants in urban centres and major tourist destinations. 

Currency exchange is widely available at airports and in cities.

• Visa-free entry is available for short stays (up to 30 days) for many passport holders.

• e-Visas and Visa on Arrival (VoA) are available for many nationalities and can be applied for online prior to arrival, costing around IDR 500,000

• For longer stays, work, or study, you’ll need to apply for a specific visa in advance through an Indonesian embassy or consulate.

Always check the latest entry requirements on the official immigration website or with your local Indonesian embassy, as regulations may change.

Tipping in Indonesia is not mandatory, but it is always appreciated, especially when service is good. 

Common guidelines include:

• General services (guides, drivers, porters):

Guides: typically IDR 50,000–200,000/day (depending on service) 

Drivers: around IDR 50,000–100,000/day for day hires; IDR 10,000–20,000 for taxi drivers or rounding up fares

Porters: IDR 10,000–20,000 per luggage item 

• Hotels:

Housekeeping: IDR 20,000–50,000 per day 

Bellhops/valets: IDR 10,000–20,000 per bag 

• Restaurants & bars:

Often include a 10–11% service charge. If not, leaving a 5–10% tip is appreciated 

• Spas & salons:

Around IDR 50,000–100,000, depending on the service and venue 

• Street food and small warungs:

Not expected—rounding up the bill is courteous but not obligatory