Indonesia Currency Guide
Indonesia is a land of endless adventure. With more than 17,000 islands, there’s sure to be something to suit every taste. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the idyllic beaches of Bali, Indonesia has something for everyone. And with a rich culture and fascinating history, there’s always something new to explore. If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation, Indonesia is the perfect destination.
Taking Travel Money to Indonesia
If you’re travelling to Indonesia, you’ll need to exchange your Australian dollars (AUD) for Indonesian rupiahs (IDR) before you leave. Read our guide on converting AUD to IDR here.
Is it better to convert currency in Australia or Indonesia?
If you’re travelling to Indonesia, it’s often best to exchange your currency in Australia. The Australian Dollar (AUD) generally receives a more competitive rate at home than it might abroad, saving you from potential fees and fluctuating rates upon arrival. By converting to Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) before you go, you’ll have your travel funds ready and won’t need to worry about finding an exchange right away. With your budget sorted in advance, you can enjoy a stress-free start to your Indonesian getaway.
How much cash can I take to Indonesia?
Authorities in Indonesia require any cash worth more than IDR 100 million (or around $10,000 AUD) to be declared upon arrival. Still, there is currently no limit on the amount of foreign bank notes that can be carried into the country.
Where to convert currency?
Crown Currency Exchange is Australia’s largest and leading foreign exchange provider. With over 20 years of experience in ensuring our customers have the exact currencies needed to get the most from their travel adventures, we offer great rates on foreign currency and exceptional customer service. You can collect your foreign currencies from over 60 stores across Australia and get your travel money on the spot, locking in a fantastic exchange rate. Our stores are located nationwide in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Tasmania & Perth.
What should you budget per day?
Budget
You can survive in as little as ₹1,000,000 IDR, but this budget won’t allow for much more than hostel dorm beds, cheap meals and local transport. With this budget, you can still jump on the popular tours without spending too much.
Moderate
With a daily budget of around ₹2,000,000 IDR, indulging in the odd restaurant meal or two will be well within your budget, as will transportation and tours! You’ll also be able to afford a little luxury from time to time, like the occasional drink. Accommodation will be a little more comfortable, too – you could even afford your own room in major cities.
Luxury
Premium travel in Indonesia is easy to find and surprisingly affordable. If you’re looking for luxury travel in Indonesia, you can begin at around ₹4,000,000 IDR. With this budget, you’ll be able to afford 5-star hotels and meals at the finest restaurants! You’ll also be able to take part in any tour or activity you want, as well as enjoy a few drinks each night. Over 17,000 islands mean plenty to see and do in Indonesia, and at this level of budget, the sky is really the limit.
What is ATM access like in Indonesia?
ATMs in Indonesia are prevalent in major cities and tourist destinations, such as Bali. However, in smaller towns, you may have trouble locating one. If you’re visiting Indonesia’s tiny settlements, you might want to stock up on rupiahs beforehand. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Indonesia, although credit and debit cards are mostly used only in bigger cities and tourist destinations like Jakarta and Bali. Many locations will only take cash, so it’s a good idea to keep some on you at all times.
Is tipping customary in Indonesia? How much is expected?
Although tipping isn’t a common custom in Indonesia like it is in other countries, you could still leave a 5-10% tip to show appreciation if the service was great and above expectations.
Restaurants: When dining out, some restaurants automatically add a service charge to the bill. If this is not the case, be generous and leave a 10% tip or Rp10,000.
Guides and drivers: For a multi-day excursion, you can tip your guide AUD $8 to $15 per day on the final day. If there were a driver during the trip, giving them between AUD $2 and $8 per day would suffice. For free trips to major cities, depending on how good the tour was, you can give between AUD $8 and $15
Taxi drivers: Although all taxis are equipped with meters, some drivers may not carry coins or tiny bills or may be unable to locate them when needed. Several travellers round up their bills.
Hotels: Tipping isn’t necessary at hotels since they tack on a 10% service charge to the bill in addition to the 10% to 11% sales tax. However, you may choose to give your doorman, bellman, housekeeper, or concierge a gratuity for their efforts.
Spas and Salons: Although it is not required to tip for services such as hair salons and body massages in Indonesia, it is common and expected. After the service, most Indonesians give their hairdresser or masseur a 5-10% tip of the total.
Can you bargain in Indonesia?
It’s part of the culture for many Indonesians to bargain, and getting a fair or low price is considered as a challenge. Vendors frequently quote a price based on the customer’s perceived ability to pay rather than the standard cost of goods. This makes it more difficult for foreigners, who are often quoted a higher fee. However, you can probably get up to a 50% discount, so start by cutting the seller’s initial asking price in half and then haggle from there until you reach an agreement somewhere in the middle. But be sure that the final price is fair for both of you.
Must-Do's in Indonesia
1
Go surfing in Kuta
Marvel at the famous Kuta beach, where the waves are perfect for beginners and experts alike. Don’t forget to haggle for a surfing lesson – it’s the best way to make the most of your time in Kuta! And if you’re not a fan of the water, you can always sunbathe on the beautiful sand instead.
2
Visit a traditional market
Indonesia is home to many traditional markets, each with its own unique atmosphere. From the bustling night markets of Jakarta to the serene morning markets of Bali, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to haggle for the best prices, and don’t forget to try the local food!
3
Climb Mount Bromo
One of Indonesia’s most popular tourist attractions, Mount Bromo, is a must-see. The active volcano is located in East Java and can be climbed relatively easily. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the climb can be quite strenuous. You can reach the summit in around two hours, and the views are definitely worth it.
4
See the turtles at Derawan Islands
Located at East Kalimantan, Derawan Islands is one of the best places in Indonesia to see turtles. From rare green giant turtles to endangered hawksbill turtles, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world entirely. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale shark or two! So be sure to snorkel or scuba dive to make the most of your time here! The best time to visit Derawan Islands is from March to October.
5
Visit Borobudur temple
Borobudur is one of Indonesia’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is located in Central Java, one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples. With an entrance fee of Rp350,000 (AUD $36), it’s definitely worth a visit! Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds, and don’t forget to bargain for a guide! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top of the temple for an incredible view.
With so many things to see and do, Indonesia is the perfect destination for any traveller. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it all in Indonesia. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!