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 84 experiences from female travelers

3.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.9 /5

Based on 55 experiences from local women

Indonesia is currently ranked #36 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 84 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.5/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Kathryn

United States

North Kuta, Solo travel

I stayed all over the island of Bali and I was most comfortable in the Kuta area. There are pockets of more touristy places as well as a good community of expats. The locals are all very nice, just be on the lookout for all the chaos on the roads with the numerous scooters.

Posted: June 6, 2025Experienced: October, 2022

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Kristina

Bulgaria

Bali, Family travel

It was interesting.There are some places where you would feel a little bit insecure ,but people there are very kind. Our resort was fine.we were at Nusa Dua beach hotel and spa. We had problems with our rooms cards almost daily.My favorite restaurant out of the resort was Bebek Tebasari Resto. I would recommend to visit the monkey forest as well .

Posted: May 14, 2025

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Ceningan Island, Solo travel

If you want to rest, relax and get away from the hustle and bustle and go to the most beautiful place in Bali, definitely put Ceningan Island on your bucket list. I felt super safe here. I walked around the island and felt safe, even after dark. If you stay on Ceningan island, there's not much to do. But that's why I liked it. There are beautiful viewpoints around the island and lovely restaurants. Make sure to stop at Mr Ceningans restaurant for the best Australian steak and beef burgers. There are several tours that you can book for snorkeling and swimming with turtles and mantarays. On the neighboring island Lebongan (a short scooter ride away across the yellow bridge), there was more of a night life vibe with parties and karaoke. I stayed at Aurora Beach, and it was beautiful. They have an infinity pool looking out on the ocean. Aquamarine water and the most gorgeous sunsets ever. Cocktails were 50 000 IDR, and the excellent steak was 200 000 IDR. It's not the cheapest in Bali, but well worth it. It is easy to get around the island on a scooter. There are many to rent. I wasn't brave enough to drive a scooter myself and walked everywhere. The guys at Aurora Beach also gave me a lift whenever I needed to get to Lebongan island. I stayed in one place for three weeks. It was bliss.

Posted: May 10, 2025Experienced: February, 2025

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Sisikat

Mongolia

Bali, Couple travel

Bali is so amazing, spiritual heavan. Budget freindly, definately amazing people, delicious good. My fav part was fresh juice everyday! So cheap. We stayed in Ubud . Renting scooter driving around in ubud feels like Eat pray love. So many cool people as well.

Posted: April 17, 2025

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Uzik

Indonesia

Tangerang, Solo travel

I feel safe in this city, traveling to quiet places at night is something I would miss, near my house there is a very famous and busy street food and my city also has an airport, for my expenses for a month it is quite economical if I don't go out a lot because I still live with my parents

Posted: April 10, 2025

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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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Is Indonesia safe for women?

Safety index

3.9 /5

Based on 55 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 55 local experiences

Surabaya

Moderately safe especially if you're in a busy area, but cat call and verbal harassment can happen a lot for women walking on the street. When it's night and the street is still busy it's relatively safe. But when it turn into midnight and the street is quiet be careful! I wouldn't recommend walking alone in this situation.

Posted: June 23, 2025

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Bandung

It is really safe for girls as long as the areas have some people there. I'm not so sure about hidden alleys or dark places where there's no civilians living. Overall it is a safe city in the inner city and housing areas. I can't guarantee the forest without guides at night tho.

Posted: June 23, 2025

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