Indonesia travel advice

Indonesia is vast, so you may need some vaccinations depending on where you’re travelling. It is recommended that you consult with your GP 6-8 weeks in advance of travel. They will assess your particular health risks before recommending any vaccinations.

Malaria is also present across Indonesia, so you will need to take anti-malarial medication. Wearing long sleeves and trousers is also advised, as well as insect repellent. This also protects against dengue fever. Remember, malaria can develop up to a year after exposure, so keep an eye on any symptoms.

Dengue fever exists in parts of Indonesia and is transmitted to humans by mosquito bites. Symptoms include fever, headache, severe joint, bone and muscular pain, but there is no vaccine and prevention is through avoidance of mosquito bites, so wear long sleeves and trousers, and apply repellent as often as possible.

Tap water is unsafe to drink – also be wary of ice in drinks and unpeeled fruit and vegetables.

Avoid eating bushmeat such as monkeys or bats as these are often carriers of diseases – as well as often being inadvisable for environmental reasons.

Indonesia has some high climbs and trekking routes - make sure you’re aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness before you go.

Leeches are present in the lowland. These are more unpleasant than dangerous, but you can buy “leech socks” which are effective at stopping them, and keep your trousers tucked into your socks or boots.

Indonesia can get incredibly hot and humid, so keep well hydrated at all times.

Bring a basic first aid kit and medication for sickness and diarrhoea if planning to trek or cycle in remote regions.

If you need to be hospitalised, travel to the mainland may be necessary, so be sure you have comprehensive travel insurance, which covers medical evacuation, along with any other activities you may be doing, such as high-altitude hikes, kayaking or diving.

Forest fires in Indonesia can cause serious air pollution in June to August; travellers with respiratory problems should exercise precautions.

Indonesia is a relatively safe country but you should be aware of the risk of street crime and pick pocketing, particularly in busy tourist areas in Bali, where there has been an increase in reports of bag snatching. Avoid having bags obviously on show and carry only essential items, taking particular care of your passport and bank cards.

Credit card fraud is common in Indonesia’s cities, so be careful not to lose sight of your card during transactions.

Indonesia is a largely conservative country and you should dress modestly, particularly in rural areas, to avoid causing offence.

Homosexuality is not widely accepted and is considered taboo in Indonesia, so same-sex couples are advised to act discretely in public.

For further information on health and safety in France, please visit the FCO or the CDC websites.