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 76 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 #43 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 76 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.5/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

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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Sulawesi, Solo travel

Traveling from North to South of Sulawesi by yourself is very safe. The local people are really friendly and helpful. The distance are quite big so you spent sometimes between 7 until 9 hours to traveling by bus. You can travel by night in comfortable seat bed and it's not expensive.

Posted: August 26, 2024Experienced: July, 2019

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Bali, Solo travel

Drivers: Generally a positive experience. On time, helpful, polite etc then we got a bad one. Asked us if we wanted to visit a wood carving site. Firmly said no and an hour later we pulled into a wood carving site. Made the mistake of telling this guy we would pay for 6 - 8 hours which meant he drove us through places we didn't want to go. In the end I told him we would pay for 8 hours even if we got back early. Within 10 minutes we were back at the hotel. I checked the villages he had driven through against a map, he was just wasting time. I think these guys should be licensed. Truely appalling: The harressment: Bali's main income is via tourism? well they should look after the tourists a little better. We spent a lot, we tipped well, we bought a lot of stuff that we wanted. We did not need to be constantly hassled or have people attempting to con us. Very quickly I learnt to ignore the hawkers. But it doesn't stop there, taxi drivers, wait staff, it doesn't matter where you go everyone tries it on in some way to try and make an extra dollar. Even an elderly gentleman at a temple gave us a traditional blessing, very nice, then lifts up a cloth on the table indicating a stack of cash. We gave some and he became agitated demanding more, we walked out. End result: If I visit again it will be to a resort and I will spend most time on the beach and away from Bali itself. But with the crap in the water I think there are many other places offering a good beach to relax on without the possible health risk and other associated drawbacks.

Posted: August 19, 2024

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Lombok, Solo travel

I loved being in Lombok. It was safe, respectful and so worldly. Surfing was so fun and everyone was just so friendly and wanting to socialize. It was a great digital nomad community. I felt some amazing friends I will keep for life.

Posted: August 12, 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

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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Duma

About Me

I'm outdoor person, like paragliding, energick, simple , open minded, tolerance, positive thinking, cheerful and respect. Pharmacist & MBA Executive My last current role in digital marketing -demand generation agency. Peviously in digital information science technology, pharmaceutical company and pharmacy store.

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Stay with locals in Indonesia

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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Duma

Jakarta

Can host for:

3 days

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Upcoming visitors to Indonesia

Melanie

About Me

Hi! I’m melanie, but many people call me mel. I’ve even solo traveling for a little over a year now. I’m always down for a new adventure and really love meeting new people everywhere i go. I love yoga, music, vegetarian food, and trying all new things 😊

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Andreea

About Me

I love traveling and exploring new places, especially through food and photography. I've been to 55 countries so far and want to keep going, often traveling solo to challenge myself and experience different cultures. Cooking, trying new cuisines, and discovering hidden spots are some of my favorite things to do along the way.