Indonesia 🇮🇩
A vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a land of dramatic volcanoes, lush jungles, world-class diving, and deep spiritual traditions. From the yoga studios of Bali to the ancient temples of Java, it offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for the solo traveler.
Safety Snapshot for Solo Women
What It’s Like to Travel Solo Here
Indonesia, particularly Bali, is a major hub for solo female travelers, yogis, and digital nomads. The atmosphere is incredibly social and welcoming, making it easy to connect with others. The culture is generally conservative outside of tourist hotspots, so dressing modestly is appreciated. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Bali and the Gili Islands. Navigating transport can be an adventure, with scooter rentals and ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab being essential. While petty theft can occur, violent crime against tourists is rare. The biggest draw is the blend of accessible adventure, spiritual wellness, and a friendly, open-minded international community.
Indonesia offers great value, especially outside the main tourist centers of Bali. Your budget will stretch far if you live like a local.
Budget
$25 - $35
Mid-Range
$40 - $70
Luxury
$90+
Pro Tip: Use ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab for both transport and food delivery to get local prices and avoid haggling.
Detailed Budget Breakdown
Accommodation
$8 - $40
Food
$7 - $20
Transport
$5 - $15
Activities
$5 - $25
Money-Saving Tips
- Eat at local 'warungs' for delicious meals under $3.
- Renting a scooter is the most cost-effective way to explore.
- Many natural attractions like waterfalls and beaches have small entrance fees.
- Bargain respectfully at markets for souvenirs and clothing.
Seasonal Pricing
High Season (Jul-Aug, Dec-Jan)
Peak season due to holidays. Prices for flights and hotels are highest.
Shoulder Season (Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct)
Often the best time to visit, with good weather and lower prices.
Rainy Season (Nov-Mar)
Fewer crowds and cheapest prices, but be prepared for rain.
Payment Methods
- Credit cards are accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants but are rarely used elsewhere.
- Cash (IDR) is essential for daily life. Keep a mix of small and large notes.
- ATMs are common in tourist areas but can be less reliable on remote islands.
Indonesia's size means you'll use a mix of flights for long distances and scooters or ride-sharing for local travel. Safety is generally good with standard precautions.
4+
Transport Options
Walking Safety
2
Ride Apps
varied
Local Fares
- Download Gojek and Grab – they are essential for everything.
- Always wear a helmet when riding a scooter.
- Traffic can be chaotic; be defensive and cautious.
Domestic Flights
Cost Range: $30 - $90
Booking Tips
- Book via Traveloka or Tiket.com for local promos.
- Lion Air is a budget option but be aware of schedule changes.
- Garuda is the full-service national airline and more reliable.
Solo Female Tips
- Domestic terminals are busy; keep an eye on your belongings.
- Arrange airport pickup with your hotel for late-night arrivals.
- Flights are frequently the only practical way to get between distant islands.
City-Specific Transport
Bali (Canggu/Ubud)
Methods: Gojek/Grab (scooter or car), scooter rental
Cost: $2-8 per trip
💡 Renting your own scooter gives the most freedom but is only for experienced riders.
Jakarta
Methods: Gojek/Grab, TransJakarta Busway, MRT
Cost: $1-6 per trip
💡 The MRT and busway are great for avoiding Jakarta's gridlock traffic along main corridors.
Long Distance
Trains (Java) $15 - $50
An excellent, scenic, and comfortable way to travel across Java.
Buses $10 - $40
Common for travel within islands like Sumatra and Flores, but comfort levels vary.
Ferries (Pelni) $10 - $60
Slow but extensive network connecting the archipelago. A true local experience.
Local Transport
Scooter (Ojek) $1-3 per trip
The most common way to get around, hailed via apps like Gojek/Grab.
Car (Taksi) $3-10 per trip
Use Bluebird for metered taxis or book via apps.
Ridesharing
- Gojek is king. Use it for rides, food delivery (GoFood), and even package delivery.
- Choose the 'Car' option for more comfort and safety, especially at night.
- In some areas (like central Ubud), app drivers may be restricted.
Walking SafetyPoor Safety
☀️ Daytime: Challenging due to lack of sidewalks, heat, and motorbike traffic.
🌙 Nighttime: Not recommended in most areas, except for short distances in well-lit tourist hubs.
Solo Female Advice:
- Be extremely careful of motorbikes, which often drive on sidewalks.
- Walking is generally not a practical way to get around in most cities.
- Keep your bag on the side away from the street to prevent snatching.
SIM cards are cheap and widely available. Speeds are generally good in Bali and major cities, but can be slow or non-existent in remote areas.
3
Providers
3
Data Plans
4
Purchase Locations
📶 WiFi & Internet Access
- - Most cafes and guesthouses in tourist areas offer free WiFi.
- - WiFi reliability can be inconsistent, especially during peak hours.
Connectivity Tips & Tricks
- Telkomsel generally has the best coverage, especially in remote regions.
- You must register your passport when buying a SIM card.
- A VPN is recommended for accessing certain sites like Reddit.
- Download offline maps before heading to areas with poor signal.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
Required
Must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival.
Onward Ticket
Required
Proof of an onward or return ticket is required for the Visa on Arrival (VoA).
Tourist Visa Options
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Citizens of over 80 countries can purchase a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at major airports. It costs IDR 500,000 (~$35 USD), is valid for 30 days, and can be extended once for another 30 days.
E-Visa / Pre-Arrival
An e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) can be applied for online before arrival to speed up the process. This is the recommended method.
Important Policies
Overstay Penalties
The penalty for overstaying is severe: IDR 1,000,000 (~$65 USD) per day. Significant overstays can lead to detention and deportation.
What Big Cities Are Like
Jakarta
A massive, congested capital. Most travelers use it as a transit hub. It offers a glimpse into modern Indonesian city life but can be challenging to navigate.
Yogyakarta
The cultural heart of Java, home to the magnificent Borobudur and Prambanan temples. It's a hub for traditional arts, music, and puppet shows.
Ubud (Bali)
The spiritual and cultural center of Bali, famous for its yoga studios, rice paddies, art galleries, and healthy cafes. A magnet for solo travelers.
Outside the Cities
Beyond the main cities, Indonesia's rural landscapes are breathtaking. From volcanic hikes to remote island hopping, the experience becomes more about nature and authentic local encounters.
Volcano Trekking
Climbing volcanoes like Mount Bromo in Java or Mount Batur in Bali for sunrise is a popular and unforgettable experience.
Island Hopping
Beyond Bali, islands like Flores (gateway to Komodo National Park) and the Gili Islands offer pristine beaches and world-class diving.
Cultural Etiquette
In more remote and conservative areas (like Aceh), it's important to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and be mindful of local customs.
Cultural Norms & Local Tips
Use Your Right Hand
Always use your right hand when giving or receiving something, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Dress Modestly at Temples
When visiting temples, you'll be required to wear a sarong and sash to cover your legs. These are usually available for rent at the entrance.
Haggle with a Smile
Bargaining is common in markets. Keep it light-hearted and friendly. Start at about half the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.
Use Gojek or Grab
These ride-sharing apps are indispensable for getting around on scooters (ojek) or in cars, and for food delivery. They offer fair, fixed prices.
Embrace 'Jam Karet' (Rubber Time)
Punctuality is not always a priority. Expect things to run on a more relaxed schedule and try not to get frustrated by delays.
Learn a Few Words
Simple phrases like 'Terima kasih' (Thank you) and 'Selamat pagi' (Good morning) are much appreciated and will be met with warm smiles.
What Women Say
"Bali was the perfect first solo trip. I joined a yoga retreat in Ubud and met so many amazing women from all over the world. It felt incredibly safe and nurturing."
— Jessica, USA
"I rented a scooter and explored the waterfalls in the north of Bali. It was empowering to have that freedom. Just be careful on the roads, the traffic can be crazy!"
— Claire, UK
Cities in Indonesia
Explore cities in Indonesia recommended by solo female travelers.
Women's Healthcare in Indonesia
Healthcare quality varies significantly between urban centers and rural areas. Private clinics in tourist hubs like Bali offer good quality care, but travel insurance is essential.
Contraception Availability
Available, but brand choice may be limited
Emergency Contraception
Available over the counter in some pharmacies ('Postinor')
Abortion Legality
Generally illegal, with very strict exceptions
Menstrual Products
Tampons can be hard to find; pads are widely available
Emergency Hotlines
Emergency Information
Solo Meetups & Local Experiences
Bali Solo Travel Girls
A popular Facebook group for female travelers in Bali to ask questions, share tips, and organize meetups.
Canggu Nomad Girls
A community for female digital nomads in the Canggu area, great for co-working sessions and skill-sharing.
Gili Trawangan Solo Travelers
A group for those heading to the Gili Islands to find snorkeling buddies or join social events.
What to Pack for Indonesia
Clothing
- Lightweight, modest clothing (scarf, long skirts)
- Sarong (essential for temples and beaches)
- Rain jacket or poncho, especially for rainy season
- At least one warmer layer for volcanic highlands
Footwear & Gear
- Comfortable sandals or flip-flops
- Sturdy walking shoes for hikes and temples
- Dry bag for boat trips and rainy days
Health & Safety
- Strong insect repellent (for dengue fever)
- Travel first-aid kit with antiseptic and stomach medicine
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
Technology
- Power bank
- Universal travel adapter (Type C & F)
- Unlocked phone for a local SIM (e.g., Telkomsel)