Planning your trip to Indonesia
Traveling to Indonesia is easy, provided you know a few essential things before you leave.
Tourist visa, recommended vaccinations, managing money, and local culture: this page will help you plan your trip with peace of mind, avoiding any unpleasant surprises.
Tourist Visa
in Indonesia
The arrival card (customs declaration) must be completed online within 3 days of your departure. You can also pay for and having your visa in advance there. via this link
For citizens of the European Union, a Visa on Arrival is available for approximately €30–35, payable online (with the arrival card) or upon arrival (euros accepted).
It is valid for 30 days and renewable once, with an online application followed by a brief visit to the nearest immigration office (photo and fingerprints) within 3 days of the application.
Travelers of other nationalities should check entry requirements on the official Indonesian visa website.
Health & Safety Advice
Before you leave, remember to consult the health recommendations of the Pasteur Institute or your doctor regarding vaccinations and travel advice.
Tap water is not safe to drink: opt for filtered, boiled, or bottled water. Ice cubes are generally safe, as the water is treated for local consumption. If you have sensitivities, avoid raw and unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
Pharmacies are readily available, but it is advisable to bring a small personal first-aid kit (anti-diarrheal medication, electrolytes, anti-nausea medication, paracetamol, allergy medication, earplugs). Effective mosquito repellent is available in all small shops in the village.
Indonesia is not considered a high-risk country by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Money & Payments
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
For reference:
€1 ≈ 19,500 IDR
€5 ≈ 100,000 IDR
€50 ≈ 1,000,000 IDR
For your personal expenses (meals not included, tips, souvenirs, other activities), bring cash, as few establishments accept credit cards.
We recommend exchanging some money before departure and/or withdrawing cash directly from ATMs at the airport. If you travel abroad frequently, a credit card with no foreign transaction fees may be worthwhile. Airport exchange offices are generally less favorable.
Important: There are no ATMs in Bukit Lawang itself, but there is one about 20 minutes from the village. You can ask your driver to stop there along the way. If you forget, a local currency exchange office or a short tuk-tuk ride will allow you to withdraw money easily.
Local culture
Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, but North Sumatra is very diverse, with different religions and cultures coexisting harmoniously.
In Bukit Lawang, mosques punctuate village life: you'll hear the call to prayer but you could also hear the church bells. Berastagi and Lake Toba are mainly Christian (Protestant or Catholic), while Pulau Weh is Muslim, with more conservative rules (Sharia law).
Out of cultural respect—and to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes, regardless of the dominant religion in the region you're visiting—it's recommended to cover your shoulders and knees. In the river and lake, locals swim fully clothed (T-shirt and shorts/trousers).
On Pulau Weh, some beaches require full-coverage clothing, while others allow swimsuits.
Accomodation in Indonesia
In Sumatra — and Indonesia in general — accommodation standards may differ from what you are used to in Europe. Comfort levels vary depending on the area and the type of lodging, but they are also part of the local experience.
Standard comfort (most common)
Private room with a bathroom equipped with Western-style toilets, a fan, towels, toilet paper and usually Wi-Fi.
Superior / higher comfort
More comfortable amenities such as hot water and/or air conditioning, even sometimes a swimming-pool. Recommended in Berastagi and Lake Toba, where evenings and nights can be cooler.
Comfort in Indonesia is generally simple and authentic. In Bukit Lawang especially, short power cuts can sometimes happen during storms — a good opportunity to slow down… or fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
(We do not offer very basic accommodation.)