Indonesia is made up of a whopping 17,800 islands—something that would take you a lifetime to explore! It is also home to a vast range of fauna and flora as well as countless linguistic and ethnic groups, cultures, and incredible landscapes. I can’t emphasize enough how much you need to visit (and spend time in) this beautiful country!

I have frequented the island of Bali, visited the dragons of Komodo Island, trekked to the peak of the Kelimutu volcanic lakes, explored the island of Lombok, and went scuba diving throughout the Gili Islands and Raja Ampat. Indonesia has some of the most pristine underwater landscapes and marine life—if you like diving (whether avid or advanced), Indonesia is bucket-list status.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to travel to Indonesia is during the dry season! From May to September the days are hot, dry, and there’s not a rain cloud in sight. You’ll have excellent weather for scuba diving, hiking, and lazy days at the beach.

Indonesia’s wet season is from October to April, but it’s still a beautiful time to visit parts of the country. While there are intense tropical downpours almost daily, the showers only last an hour or two and won’t ruin your entire day. If you don’t mind the less than perfect weather, you’ll find cheaper hotel rates, airlines drop their prices, and there are fewer crowds at the top attractions.

As with any vast country, climates can vary in different regions, so always research before you start your trip!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language

The official language in Indonesia is Indonesian.

Currency

The currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah.

Credit Cards and ATMs

You’ll be able to pay with your credit card at upscale restaurants and hotels in tourist areas. However, if you’re going shopping at the local markets, the vendors only accept cash. There are plenty of ATMs in popular destinations like Bali and Jakarta, but you’ll struggle to find machines in more remote areas.

Plugs

The plugs in Indonesia are type C. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter (make sure it has surge protection) and using a converter for hairdryers and hot tools.

Safety

Indonesia is one of the safest Southeast Asia destinations for solo female travelers. But it’s always a good idea to take extra precautions and keep your eye on your belongings. You’ll also want to avoid buying arak, a locally produced alcohol. It can contain poisonous methanol so only buy your drinks from reputable bars and resorts.