Information found in this article is correct at the time of publication. Note that travel restrictions may change due to the ongoing pandemic. Make sure to check local government websites for updates before you travel.
With global vaccine rollouts increasing and international travel revving up the past few months, it’s time to start planning that overseas trip.. Not sure which country to visit first? You might want to check out Indonesia!
Boasting diverse landscapes, Indonesia is high on our travel bucket list. Beyond the beaches and volcanoes, this Southeast Asian nation also packs a vibrant culture, attracting tourists worldwide.
Indonesia is blessed with diverse landscapes: volcanoes, waterfalls, and beaches. Image credit: Iswanto Arif on Unsplash
Eager to visit Indonesia? Here’s a quick rundown of what we know about travelling to Indonesia from Australia:
- Is it safe to travel to Indonesia from Australia?
- When can I travel to Indonesia from Australia?
- What do I need to know if I want to travel to Indonesia from Australia?
- Can I fly to Indonesia from Australia?
- Must-visits in Indonesia
- Where can I find out more official travel information?
Is it safe to travel to Indonesia from Australia?
Indonesia has seen improvements in their COVID-19 situation. Reports say that more than 73 million people in Indonesia are fully vaccinated, and the country is on the drive to vaccinate the rest of its population. Travel restrictions also eased up in early October.
However, the impact of COVID-19 still poses a global risk, so travellers are encouraged to reassess their need to travel.
Temples are a must-see in Indonesia. Image credit: Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash
When can I travel to Indonesia from Australia?
Aussies can already travel to Indonesia, provided they’re fully vaccinated, have a travel visa, and have accomplished all pre-travel requirements. If you’re planning to visit Bali, the island is gradually re-opening its borders to select countries. Still, approval of Aussie travellers into this prime holiday island is yet to happen.
Bali is yet to re-open for Australian visitors. Image credit: Alfiano Sutianto on Unsplash
What do I need to know if I want to travel to Indonesia from Australia?
- Do I have to be vaccinated? Yes, you have to be fully vaccinated for at least two weeks to enter Indonesia.
- Do I need a COVID test? Yes. You must present your negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result issued within 72 hours before your arrival.
- Is quarantine required? Yes, for at least three days if you’re fully vaccinated. If you have only received your first dose, you’ll be required to stay in your quarantine area for five days.
- Do I need a visa to travel to Indonesia from Australia? Yes, you must apply for a visa before your trip.
Vaccination requirements for travel to Indonesia also apply to children between the ages of 12 to 17. Vaccines recognised by the Indonesian government are Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, and Johnson & Johnson.
Apart from the COVID-19 test, quarantine, and visa requirements, you will also need proof of medical insurance coverage of at least USD 100,000. It must include health financing for quarantine plus treatment if you get exposed to COVID-19. You must also download Indonesia’s local COVID-19 contact tracing Peduli Lindungi app while you’re in the country.
Indonesia has tons of islands you should visit on your trip. Image credit: Killian Pham on Unsplash
Can I fly to Indonesia from Australia?
Yes! Flights to Jakarta from Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth are available via Garuda Airlines. Upon arrival at the airport, overseas travellers have to take another RT-PCR test before being escorted to their quarantine areas designated by the government.
Fully vaccinated visitors have to take their second RT-PCR test on the last day of their quarantine. Travellers who have only had one dose will take it on their fourth day. If the results are negative, they can continue their trip the following day.
Must-visits in Indonesia
While we’re waiting for Bali to re-open, here are the other best places to visit in Indonesia!
1. Jakarta
Keep your eyes peeled for great bargains at Indonesia’s shopping centres. Image credit: Refhad on Unsplash
When you visit Indonesia, your touchdown point is Jakarta, where the international airport is located. But, it's more than just that—the Indonesian capital brims with dozens of must-see attractions in its vicinity!
Jakarta offers a wide range of shopping malls and restaurants, making it both a shopper's and foodie's haven. Shopping centres include Plaza Indonesia for those on the hunt for quality designer goods and Pasar Ikan for souvenirs to take home. For tasty delicacies, head to Pondok Laguna and try out traditional Sudanese cuisine, or visit local coffee shops for a unique cup of joe.
Visit the National Gallery in Indonesia. Image credit: Zalfa Imani on Unsplash
Other attractions in Jakarta that you should add to your itinerary include the National Museum and National Gallery. For a fun-filled day, head over to Dunia Fantasi in Ancol and enjoy hours filled with glee as you try over 40 of the theme park’s attractions! If you love the rush, start your trip on the crowd-favourites: the Halilintar Roller Coaster and Niagara Water Log Ride.
2. Yogyakarta
The marvellous Prambanan temple will take your breath away. Image credit: Eugenia Clara on Unsplash
For the ultimate Indonesian culture immersion, head to Yogyakarta in Java! It's home to magnificent ancient temples: the Hindu temple Prambanan and the Buddhist temple Borobudur. Other temples in the area are the ruins of Sewu temple and the restored Sambisari Temple.
Try out different street eats aside from Gudeg! Image credit: Lek Nikto on Unsplash
Yogyakarta is also called the City of Gudeg, a traditional Indonesian dish made from nangka, coconut milk, palm sugar, meat, and other spices. While you're there, make sure to get a taste of this well-loved stew.
3. Lombok
Lombok’s pristine white beach will make you want to stay forever! Image credit: Süleyman Coskun on Unsplash
On the search for Indonesia's best-kept secrets? You might be interested in visiting Lombok, also known as the best Bali alternative. This island paradise takes pride in its Kuta beach with white powder sand and Mount Rinjani, the country's second-highest volcano.
From Lombok, you can also visit the three Gili Islands off Lombok’s northwest coast! Here, you can easily spend hours snorkelling in its azure waters. Did you know that the Gili Islands are home to more than just coral reefs and marine life? Underneath the water, you can also find underwater statues called The Nest and a shipwreck site!
You can even spice up your trip by trying out sambal made from the famed Lombok chillies!
Where can I find out more official travel information?
For more information on travel to Indonesia from Australia, regularly check SmartTraveller by the Australian Government and Garuda Indonesia for updates on travel requirements.
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