Is Indonesia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Indonesia generally offers a safe environment for solo female travelers. In popular tourist areas such as Bali or Jakarta, safety is similar to major cities globally. However, it's important to keep your wits about you, particularly at night, and avoid less crowded places. Exercise caution in remote areas due to occasional reports of harassment. Ensure to respect the local customs and attire, especially in religious sites. Use reputable transportation and accommodation. Overall, when using common sense and precautions, Indonesia is a rich and beautiful destination to explore.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on 79 experiences from female travelers

3.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 39 experiences from local women

Indonesia is currently ranked #42 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.5 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Indonesia?

Safety at night:Moderate

Indonesia varies greatly from region to region when it comes to safety. Well-populated areas, such as Bali and Jakarta, are patrolled regularly by police and security, thus they are somewhat safe. In rural areas, however, safety might be a concern. Solo females are advised not to walk alone at night, especially in remote areas or areas that are not well-lit. If it's necessary to be out at night, consider taking a trusted taxi or ojek (motorcycle taxi). Also, always inform someone of your whereabouts if you are out late and it's always recommended to remain vigilant.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Indonesia varies greatly, from traditional to modern forms. City buses, trains and taxis are widely available, and the introduction of ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek has increased convenience. However, overcrowding can be an issue especially during peak hours, which can make the journey uncomfortable. Whilst most journeys are made without incident, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur. It is recommended to keep your belongings secured and be alert in crowded places. It's also worth noting that language barriers may pose some challenges.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Indonesia, the level of street harassment is moderately common. While it's unlikely for it to be physical, you might encounter locals calling out or staring, especially in touristy areas. Being a predominantly Muslim country, attire that respects local customs is suggested when navigating public spaces, which can help reduce unwanted attention. Like any country, experiences can vary, so awareness and vigilance are always beneficial approaches.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and cell phone theft are moderately common, especially in crowded places like markets, public transport, and tourist areas in Indonesia. Always remain alert and conscious of your belongings. Carry minimal amounts of money, avoid showing off expensive jewelry or devices, and consider using an anti-theft backpack. Though these crimes are not rampant, these precautions will help you avoid any potential situations.

Is Indonesia worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 79 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.5/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Tamara

Netherlands

Bukit Lawang, Couple travel

I went to Bukit Lawang in 2023 together with my boyfriend. We had the most amazing time while we were there. We chose to stay with Sumatra Orangutan Explore, which is pretty much the only ethical trekking company over there. We also did the trekking with this company and this was AMAZING. They have some very strict rules when it comes to how you should behave arround the animals. We also met some amazing people during this trekking. I would definitely recommend this trip to everyone. Also if you are searching for a place in Bukit lawang to get some cash of your card you should definitely go to sams bungalow. This was pretty much the only spot that accepts card🙈

Posted: March 12, 2025

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Indonesia, Solo travel

I’ve lived in Indonesia for two years, based in Bandung and on and off in Bali. I love the country and its people deeply. I extended my stay from one year to two because I felt so good there! From local food in tiny warungs to calm spots by the ocean. Indonesia will always be in my heart. If you need some recommendations, hit me up!

Posted: March 11, 2025Experienced: July, 2016

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Indonesia, Solo travel

I felt safe traveling solo to indonesia I recommend going to komodo Island and exploring the beautiful national park. You will see komodo dragons, you can hike up a beautiful island with pink beaches. The water is so clear and blue and the weather is perfect

Posted: March 10, 2025Experienced: November, 2023

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Bali, Group travel

I felt fairly safe in Bali. We stayed in the southern side of the island, where we rented a villa. It was quite cheap, though secluded. We got around by renting a car as we have the proper license. We did not do much water activities - just went to relax in the southern beaches. And I can say that it was fantastic

Posted: February 16, 2025Experienced: July, 2024

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Juliane

Germany

Indonesia, Solo travel

I think it’s better to travel with a friend. I only met a few people. I did a boat tour from bajo to Lombok. Highly recommend (did it with wanua adventure). Gili T was nice but very sad to see how touristy and full with trash it was. I loved Ubud on Bali. Recommend going to the yoga barn. You get discount as a student. Bali is easy to travel with Grab. Overall if I compare Indonesia to Thailand it’s more touristy and I think I got roped if more times but nature is breath taking.

Posted: January 22, 2025

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Lahari

India

Bali, Solo travel

I felt very safe in Bali. In fact, Bali is my happy place. I love how I can choose the tour of holiday I wish to have in Bali. Be it adventure, spiritual, party or romantic, Bali has it all. I’ve been to Bali several times before and I must say, I fall in love every single time. Highly recommend going to Sidemen and making your own silver jewelry. Check out Sanur for a less crowded beach destination.

Posted: January 14, 2025

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Indonesia, Group travel

I spent 2 weeks in Seminyak, a bustling spot close to popular neighbouring areas. I felt safe here, although you do get stop a lot as a woman, especially if you have tattoos, but the locals although r pushy are very polite and appreciative people. At night there is so many bike drivers around that will keep an eye on you, they are very prompt with there reply’s if you connect on what’s app and will often wait for you at places for an easy get away! Not all bikes have helmets though.

Posted: January 9, 2025

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Bali, Couple travel

If you are a travel beginner, Try Bali. It has lots of options from luxury to budget, nature to city and nightlife, cultures and more. The price is also still affordable and it is safe for women, worth to try!

Posted: January 3, 2025Experienced: October, 2024

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Bali, Solo travel

Bali is pretty safe for solo travellers. The whole country main income is tourism, they are setup to accomodate anyone and everyone. It’s very cheap (atleast for Aussies with the conversion rate) I stayed in a Villa by myself and also decided to stay in a hostel (same price as being somewhere on my own!). The best way to get around is by motorbike. Use the apps Grab & GoJek

Posted: December 26, 2024

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Indonesia, Solo travel

The locals were really kind and helpful. I had a great time exploring the city and islands. There is always something for everyone. People of all interests have activities to do everywhere. It's a very warm place where I felt at home, even when away from home. I would love to go again.

Posted: October 17, 2024Experienced: January, 2024

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Is Indonesia safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 39 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 39 local experiences

Yogyakarta

I don't know I am here since tow Days. But I feel save, the locals are very friendly and helpful. In Yogyakarta live many students an it's a spot for Art and Kultur. The People in the Hostel an on the rezeption are so nice and they told me If i need something, I only have to ask. I think the safety depends on the area you are living.

Posted: February 11, 2025

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Dalesa

Jakarta

The metropolitan area is okay I guess, cons: crowded makes you dizzy, pros: crowded makes you feel safe. Suburban to rural area filled with friendly people, but always be polite and never cause any scene. Women here might give you arrogant and careless vibe but that's just because of how tiring the fast-paced city can become but when it comes to helping another woman they all are the best. They all are actually friendly and it's pretty easy to make friends. When traveling alone, I might say Jakarta is safe but don't loose guard cause some girls can't stand being catcalled, while some girls will just let it slip (like me). Just be careful wherever you are in general not just in Jakarta.

Posted: February 8, 2025

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Meet locals in Indonesia

Dalesa

About Me

Hi! I'm Dale and I just started my travelling journey in my 20s to overcome my fear of being abroad on my own. Would love to make new friends all around the world to share stories and experiences!

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fatimah

About Me

Hello. I'm ima. I am a part time medical doctor, also a mother of two who wants to travel and feel the different cultures around the world.

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fatimah

Indonesia

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hello. I'm ima. I am a part time medical doctor, also a mother of two who wants to travel and feel the different cultures around the world.

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Dalesa

Jakarta

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! I'm Dale and I just started my travelling journey in my 20s to overcome my fear of being abroad on my own. Would love to make new friends all around the world to share stories and experiences!

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Upcoming visitors to Indonesia

Fine

About Me

Heyy, I‘m a very open and passionate person who grew up in Stockholm before moving to Germany for my studies. I’ve also spent a semester abroad in France and the Netherlands. Now I’ve applied for master programs in the Netherlands and Denmark, so I’m not sure yet where it‘s going after that. But right now I‘m traveling South East Asia. Started in Vietnam and going through Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia, before ending up in Indonesia (Java) where I will do the last two weeks of my trip solo. Would love to meet up with someone to share a part of the journey or get shown around some place. I‘m very interested in History and Food (big foodie), so I’m always up for learning new things and seeing new places !