+ 6-8 h / + 5-7 h during our summer time

Jakarta

Indonesian

• 230 volts
• A travel plug adapter for Type C and F sockets is required.

Banks

8.00 a.m.–3.00 p.m. (Mon–Fri)
8.00 a.m.–1.00 p.m. (Sat)

Shops

7.00/10.00 a.m.–10.00 p.m. (daily)

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Tahun Baru)
• Chinese New Year (Imlek): date varies according to the Chinese calendar
• Day of Silence / Nyepi (Hari Raya Nyepi): date varies according to the Balinese calendar
• Good Friday (Jumat Agung): date varies according to the Christian calendar
• 1 May: Labour Day (Hari Buruh)
• Waisak (Hari Raya Waisak): date varies according to the Buddhist calendar
• Ascension Day (Kenaikan Yesus Kristus): date varies according to the Christian calendar
• 1 June: Pancasila Day (Hari Lahir Pancasila)
• End of Ramadan / Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Idul Fitri / Lebaran): date varies according to the Islamic calendar
• 17 August: Independence Day (Hari Kemerdekaan)
• Islamic New Year (Tahun Baru Islam / Muharram): date varies according to the Islamic calendar
• Maulid Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad: date varies according to the Islamic calendar
• Eid al-Adha / Feast of Sacrifice (Hari Raya Idul Adha): date varies according to the Islamic calendar
• 24 December: Christmas Eve (Malam Natal)
• 25 December: Christmas Day (Hari Natal)

Religious holidays are celebrated to varying degrees in different regions, depending on the religious composition of the population.

The following documents are required to enter Indonesia:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and containing at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
• A return ticket or an onward ticket to another country.
• For tourism purposes, a Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available. This single-entry visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended for a further 30 days. It can also be applied for online. Travellers who obtain an electronic visa in advance (e-VoA) can proceed directly to passport control.
• A QR code for the customs declaration is also required to enter the country. It may be printed or saved on a mobile phone. The customs declaration can be completed online no earlier than three days before entry.
• Due to the mpox outbreak, travellers must complete a health declaration form in order to enter Indonesia. (As of: August 2024)
• A tourist levy applies to travel to Bali. The fee can be paid before travelling via the “Love Bali” portal to avoid waiting times upon arrival. A QR code is issued as proof of payment and should be kept ready for inspection when entering Bali.

As of: August 2024

Indonesia has a tropical climate that varies slightly depending on the region:

• Sumatra and Kalimantan: these regions experience a typical equatorial climate, with high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from November to March, with a short dry season from June to September.
• Java and Bali: both islands have a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season runs from November to April, while the dry season lasts from May to October. Temperatures remain warm to hot throughout the year.
• Sulawesi: this island has a tropical rainforest climate. Southern Sulawesi has distinct rainy and dry seasons, while rainfall in the north is distributed more evenly throughout the year.
• Nusa Tenggara, including Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores and Timor: this region has a drier tropical climate than the rest of Indonesia. The rainy season is shorter, from December to March, while the dry season is longer and more intense, from April to November.
• Papua: Papua has a tropical rainforest climate, with rainfall distributed evenly throughout the year. Temperatures are high and humidity remains constant.
• The Maluku Islands: this region has a tropical monsoon climate similar to that of Java and Bali, with a rainy season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.

From diving to city breaks: the ideal time to visit Indonesia

• Beach holidays: from May to October, when the weather is dry and sunny.
• City breaks: ideal throughout the year, but particularly recommended from May to September.
• Nature and adventure travel: from June to September, when rainfall is minimal.
• Cultural travel: from May to October, to experience traditional festivals and events.
• Snorkelling and diving: from October to April, when underwater visibility is at its best.
• Wildlife watching: from June to September, when the animals are most active.

• Using a mobile phone in Indonesia incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check the applicable roaming fees before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels and public places. Internet access is generally good in urban areas and tourist regions, while coverage may be more limited in rural areas.
• It is recommended to purchase a prepaid SIM card for affordable mobile calls and Internet access during your stay in Indonesia. SIM cards are readily available at airports, supermarkets and telecommunications shops. Popular providers include Telkomsel, Indosat and XL Axiata.

• Borobudur Temple: a majestic Buddhist temple known for its impressive architecture and intricately detailed reliefs.
• Komodo National Park: home to the famous Komodo dragons, with breathtaking landscapes and world-class diving sites.
• Raja Ampat Islands: a paradise for divers and snorkellers, renowned for its diverse marine life and colourful coral reefs.
• Mount Bromo: an active volcano in East Java, surrounded by a spectacular landscape that is particularly impressive at sunrise.
• Uluwatu Temple: a picturesque sea temple perched on a cliff in Bali, famous for its traditional Kecak dances and breathtaking sunsets.
• Lake Toba: the world’s largest volcanic lake, set in beautiful surroundings and ideal for relaxing and discovering Batak culture.
• Bunaken National Marine Park: a world-renowned diving area in Sulawesi, famous for its rich coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
• Ijen Volcano: an impressive volcano in East Java, known for its spectacular blue flames and sulphur mines.
• Tanjung Puting National Park: a protected area in Kalimantan, known for its orangutan rehabilitation programmes and diverse flora and fauna.
• Gili Islands: three small islands off the coast of Lombok, famous for their white sandy beaches, clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Travel inspiration

Be inspired by our blog articles and discover Indonesia’s most fascinating destinations:

• Discover the top diving destinations: diving in Indonesia
• The 10 most beautiful islands in Asia: Lombok in Indonesia
• Discover Bali: an insider’s guide to highlights and cultural secrets

Indonesia offers a rich and diverse cuisine distinguished by fresh ingredients, exotic spices and traditional cooking techniques. Its culinary landscape reflects the country’s geographical and cultural diversity.

• Rice and noodle dishes: rice is the staple food, with classics such as Nasi Goreng, fried rice, and Nasi Campur, rice served with a selection of side dishes. Mie Goreng, fried noodles, is also very popular.
• Satay: grilled meat skewers served with a delicious peanut sauce are an iconic part of Indonesian cuisine.
• Spices and sauces: Sambal, a spicy chilli sauce, and aromatic curries such as Rendang are essential elements of Indonesian cuisine.
• Seafood: fresh seafood, such as grilled fish, Ikan Bakar, and spicy prawns, Udang Balado, is particularly popular in coastal regions.
• Tropical fruit: Indonesia offers an abundance of tropical fruit, including durian, mangosteen and salak, also known as snake fruit.
• Desserts: sweet treats such as Klepon, rice balls filled with palm sugar, and Es Campur, a shaved-ice dessert with mixed fruit, are popular desserts.
• Street food: market stalls and street-food vendors offer authentic dishes such as Gado-Gado, a vegetable salad with peanut sauce, and Bakso, a meatball soup.
• Drinks: popular beverages include Teh Botol, chilled jasmine tea, and Es Kelapa Muda, a young coconut drink. Coffee from Sumatra and Java also enjoys an international reputation.

Indonesian cuisine combines tradition and diversity, offering something special for every taste.

• Greeting: polite greetings are highly valued in Indonesia. A slight nod or a handshake using the right hand is customary. Local people often smile when greeting others. It is polite and respectful to return the smile.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is important. “Tolong” means “please” and “Terima kasih” means “thank you”. A smile and a nod help to emphasise your gratitude.
• Clothing: Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, so modest clothing is appropriate. Shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly when visiting religious sites. Swimwear and shorts are acceptable at the beach.
• Dining etiquette: food is often eaten with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. Use only your right hand when taking or passing food. In rural areas and during traditional meals, it may be customary to sit on the floor.
• Smoking: smoking is permitted in many public areas, although smoke-free zones are becoming increasingly common. When in doubt, ask or look for a designated smoking area. It is polite to ask for permission before smoking.
• Tipping: tipping is not compulsory, but it is appreciated in tourist areas and upmarket restaurants. A tip of 5–10% is appropriate. It is often not necessary in smaller restaurants or taxis, although rounding up the amount is appreciated.

These guidelines will help you behave respectfully and appropriately in Indonesia and show appreciation for the local culture.

• Tap water: tap water in Indonesia is not safe to drink. It is recommended to use bottled or filtered water only.
• Vaccinations: no vaccinations are compulsory for entry into Indonesia. Before travelling, routine vaccinations should be checked and updated if necessary. Depending on the itinerary and duration of the trip, additional vaccinations against hepatitis A, typhoid fever and rabies may be advisable.
• Malaria risk: there is an increased risk of malaria in some regions of Indonesia. Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended, particularly in rural areas and on certain islands.
• Mosquito-borne diseases: there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases in Indonesia, including dengue fever, malaria and the Zika virus. Protective measures such as insect repellent and mosquito nets are strongly recommended.
• Stomach problems: gastrointestinal problems are common in Indonesia, often due to unfamiliar food and hygiene conditions. It is recommended to eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot and to drink bottled or filtered water only.

• The quality of medical care in Indonesia varies considerably. In major cities and tourist areas, some hospitals provide care to international standards. However, medical services are often more limited in rural regions. Travellers are advised to take out travel insurance that also covers medical evacuation.
• If you depend on certain medication, make sure that your travel medical kit contains an adequate supply.
• Pharmacies are easy to find in major cities and tourist areas, but the availability of certain medicines may be limited.
• Medicines that require a prescription in your home country may be available over the counter in Indonesia, and vice versa.
• Make a note of the generic names of your medicines, as brand names may differ.

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and remain in contact with your tour operator.
• There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks in Indonesia, particularly in major cities and popular tourist areas. Travellers should remain vigilant and avoid crowds and public events whenever possible.
• Special police regulations and restrictions apply to travel in the five provinces of the Indonesian part of New Guinea: Papua, West Papua, Highland Papua, Central Papua and South Papua. Violent clashes regularly occur between separatist groups and the security forces. Travel to these regions is therefore discouraged.
• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

As of: August 2024

• Traffic in Indonesia drives on the left.
• An international driving permit is compulsory and is recognised for a maximum of three months. It is valid locally only when accompanied by your national driving licence.
• The minimum age for renting a car varies between 18 and 25, depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
• There is no fixed legal blood alcohol limit for driving. However, driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and subject to penalties.

• Long-distance trains: Indonesia has an extensive long-distance railway network connecting major cities on the islands of Java and Sumatra. Most railway lines are located on Java and are used for both passenger and freight transport. Sumatra has three separate, unconnected railway networks: Aceh and North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and South Sumatra and Lampung. Two new networks are also being developed in Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Long-distance services are operated mainly by Kereta Api Indonesia.
• Regional trains: regional trains operated by KAI Commuter serve shorter routes and offer an affordable option for travellers in rural areas.
• Buses: buses are a popular means of transport for long-distance journeys and also connect remote areas. Well-known operators include Damri, Primajasa, Pahala Kencana and Lorena.
• Boats and ferries: with more than 17'000 islands, boats and ferries are essential means of transport in Indonesia. Pelni’s large passenger ferries travel throughout the country and provide an opportunity to explore Indonesia by sea. ASDP also operates passenger ferries that can carry vehicles. For shorter journeys, speedboats and small high-speed ferries are available almost everywhere.
• Underground: Jakarta, the capital, has a modern underground system known as the MRT, which helps to reduce traffic congestion.
• Tickets: tickets can be purchased at railway stations, bus terminals, online and through apps. Well-known apps for booking bus and train tickets include 12Go and Easybook.
• Important information: when booking, check carefully which bus terminal your bus departs from, as departure points may vary even for the same operator and route. Buses in Indonesia are rarely punctual. When air conditioning is available, it usually runs at full power and the interior can become very cold. Make sure to bring a jumper and a scarf, which can also be used as a blanket.

There are no direct flights between Switzerland and Indonesia. However, connections with stopovers are available. The largest airports in Indonesia include:

• Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), Jakarta
• Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), Bali
• Juanda International Airport (SUB), Surabaya
• Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), Medan
• Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG), Makassar

The main domestic airlines operating in Indonesia are Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Citilink, Sriwijaya Air, Batik Air and Indonesia AirAsia.

International airlines offering flights to Indonesia include Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Malaysia Airlines and Thai Airways.

00 41 (omit the initial zero of the Swiss area code)

• Police: 110/112
• Ambulance: 118/119
• Fire brigade: 113
• Search and rescue: 115
• Natural disaster assistance: 129

Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said
Blok X 3/2, Kuningan
Jakarta-Selatan 12950

Tel. +62 21 525 60 61
Email: jakarta@eda.admin.ch

• Indonesia is located in a highly active seismic zone known as the Pacific Ring of Fire. Volcanic activity, earthquakes on land and under the sea, and tsunamis occur frequently.
• Insults and publicly expressed criticism, including on social media, directed at individuals, organisations or the government are punishable by law and may result in imprisonment or substantial fines.
• Violations of drug laws are severely punished and may even result in life imprisonment or the death penalty.
• When leaving the country, objects more than 50 years old that are considered “national treasures” may only be exported with a special licence.