Discover Indonesia travel guide 

Indonesia is the idea of a tropical paradise — beautiful white beaches, lush jungle, volcanos, exotic animals and vibrant locals.

Located on the equator, Australia’s northern neighbour is an archipelago comprising over 18,000 islands. While Bali is its most famous destination, there are many surprises and experiences to be found outside of the well-worn tourist trail.

Indonesia shares a land border with Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Malaysia. Indonesia recognises three time zones, Western Indonesian Time UTC+7, Central Indonesian Time UTC+8 and Eastern Indonesian Time UTC+9. As Indonesia is a tropical location, daylight savings is not observed using the respective time zones all year round.

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Emergency Numbers

Police and general emergency dial 112
Fire dial 113
Ambulance and rescue dial 118

 
Main Ethnic Groups

40% Javanese
16% Sundanese

 
Main Religion

87% Islam
8% Protestantism
3% Catholicism

 
Geographic Facts Capital and largest city: Jakarta (11 million people)  
  • Indonesians are very friendly people and they expect the same from tourists. Influenced by history, diversity and religion, Indonesians believe in patience, family and respect.

  • Indonesians consider the left hand to be rude and dirty — you should use your right hand to eat and shake hands.
  • Pointing with your index finger us considered rude. If you want to point, use your thumb or a fully open hand.
  • Sitting with your arms crossed or on your hips is seen as a gesture of hostility or anger.
  • As a nation of islands, locals are also referred to by their region such as Balinese, Javanese and Sumatran.
  • Halo = Hello
  • Terima Kasih = Thank you
  • Tidak = No
  • Dari Mana = Where are you from?
  • Pedas = Spicy. If you don’t like spicy food remember to say Tidak Pedas.
  • Berapa harga ini = How much is this? Which you can follow with Kok mahal — Why is it so much?
    Siapa nama anda = What’s your name?
As a country with hot weather all year round, the best travel is between May and September. This is the dry season and you can make full use of the beautiful beaches.
Indonesia only has 2 seasons, wet and dry as temperatures generally remain steady across the entire year.
Dry season
Apr to Sep
25° / 32°
Wet season
Oct to Mar
25° / 32°
Trains and buses are the main transport option between major cities. There is also a variety of public transport available for shorter trips. Some of the favourites are Dokar (horse drawn carriages), Becak (pedal-powered by a rider sitting behind two passengers) and Ojek (motorcycle taxis), however some of this public transport can be cramped and unsafe. It is best to speak to your hotel about transfers and recommended transport options.
Dialing code +62


 
Visa - Canadian travellers do not need a tourist visa for trips under 30 days.
Electrical / device: 220 volts. Type C and F 
electrical plug.
Tipping - Places such as hotels or restaurants may add the tip into your bill but if it isn’t included a 10% tip is generally acceptable.
Language is Indonesian.


The drinking age in Indonesia is 21 or over. Travellers need to be aware this is the law, even though it’s not heavily 
enforced in tourist areas.
Drive on the left side of the road.

 
Currency 
Euro (CAD$1 = IDRRp11,055)
*average rate, 2016-2020
  • For Expo Milano 2015, Indonesia created a world record 2.28m high Tumpeng (a cone shaped rice dish).
  • Indonesia has the fastest rate of deforestation in the world and the most endangered mammals.
National icons are the Sumatran Tiger, the Komodo Dragon and the Javan Hawk Eagle.
DISCLAIMER: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all information as of the date of publishing, Allianz Global Assistance does not accept liability for any errors or omissions. Allianz Global Assistance strongly recommends seeking the guidance of a professional travel agent/agency for further information on a specific destination. On your next trip, whether to another province or country, ensure you have travel insurance as it may assist you in cases of unforeseen medical emergencies and other types of mishaps that can happen while you travel. Travel insurance does not cover everything, please always refer to the policy document for full terms and conditions, including limitations and exclusions. Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators Group of Companies, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.
Travel protected with Allianz Global Assistance
Or call us at 1-844-310-1578 
to speak with one of our agents.
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