Jakarta Indonesia Travel Guide
The city has a tropical monsoon climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with humidity often between 70% and 90%.
Jakarta’s climate has high temperatures and humidity all year. The city has two main seasons: the Dry Season (May to September) with fewer rainfall and less cloudy skies, and the Wet Season (October to April) with frequent heavy rains. January and February typically see the most rain.
High season means fewer rains and more outdoor activities, but also higher prices and crowds. Low season offers lower prices and fewer tourists, though heavy rainfall can cause disruptions. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often present a good balance.
The wet season, influenced by the West Monsoon, brings heavy rainfall. This causes localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Traffic often worsens during heavy downpours. While temperatures remain consistently high, Jakarta does not experience intense heat waves. The combination of heat and high humidity, however, feels quite intense.
Stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned environments when needed. For outdoor sightseeing and island day trips, plan these in order to the dry season (May-September). Less cloudy skies enhance the experience. Enjoy indoor attractions, shopping, and food tours year-round, as many are air-conditioned.
June-August, Eid-Fitr, New Year
Less rain, clearer skies, suitable for outdoor activities. Lively atmosphere.
Higher prices for flights and hotels, with more people attractions, longer queues.
April-May, September-October
Mix of good weather and fewer crowds. Cheaper prices on flights and accommodation.
Chance of some rain as seasons shift.
November-March (outside of public holidays)
Much lower prices for flights and hotels, fewer tourists. Easier to get reservations.
Heavy rainfall can disturb plans for outside, flood risk, higher humidity.
The wet season, influenced by the West Monsoon, brings heavy rainfall. This causes localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Traffic often worsens during heavy rainfall.
While the temperature stays consistently high, Jakarta does not experience severe heat waves. The combination of heat and high moisture levels, however, feels quite intense. Stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned environments when needed.
Plan these for the dry season (May-September). Clearer skies make the experience better.
Enjoy these year-round. Malls, museums, and restaurants are air-conditioned.
These occur throughout the year, independent of the weather. Check local event listings.
Best during the dry season for peak weather conditions.
Suitable for any season, with comfortable indoor spaces.
Indonesia possesses several entry options based on your nationality and reason for visit. A clear understanding of these options makes your... simpler travel preparations.
Indonesia provides several entry avenues: Visa-Free Entry for citizens from over 80 countries for stays up to 30 days. This option is non-extendable. Visa on Arrival (VOA) for citizens of over 90 countries. Obtain this upon arrival at major airports, including Soekarno-Hatta (CGK). You can also pre-submit an application online for an E-VOA, which speeds processing at the airport. A VOA allows a 30-day stay and is extendable once for another 30 days.
Ensure you have all necessary documents for a smooth entry. Passport validity, return tickets, and health certificates are considerations. Immigration officers rarely request proof of sufficient funds from tourists.
Your spending in Jakarta greatly varies with your travel style. Below are general estimates for different categories, assisting you plan effectively.
Familiarize yourself with these important health and safety considerations for a secure trip.
Ensure routine vaccinations (MMR, Tetanus, etc.) are up-to-date. Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid are recommended.
A Mosquito-borne tropical disease and Chikungunya are prevalent. Use Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin, wear long sleeves.
Significant pollution, especially dry season. Individuals with respiratory conditions should take precautions like Wearing masks.
Traveler's Diarrhea is a common issue. Stick to bottled water, avoid ice, and eat well-cooked food.
Jakarta is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime occurs in crowded areas. Be careful of unsolicited offers or overly friendly strangers, as these can potentially be part of a scam. Taxi scams (meter tampering) can occur; use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps.
Natural disaster risks include tremors from regional earthquakes and depending on the time of year flooding during the wet season. Air pollution is also a seasonal hazard. Always stay informed via local news.
Highly recommended: Comprehensive Travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancelled trips, and baggage loss. Another option is SafetyWing.
Private hospitals (e.g., Siloam Hospitals, Pondok Indah Hospital) deliver higher standards of diligence and have English-speaking staff.
Ambulance: 118 or 119, Police: 110, Fire Department: 113. Keep your country's Embassy/consulate details handy.
Tap water is NOT safe to drink. Always consume Bottled water. Eat at busy establishments with high turnover.
While Jakarta is generally safe, awareness of common issues helps. Petty crime is prevalent in crowded areas, plus vehicle flow possesses distinct safety concerns.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly suggested. This protects against medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, luggage that goes missing, and personal liability. Keep contacts readily available.
Medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability.
Police: 110, Ambulance: 118 or 119, Fire Brigade: 113, BASARNAS: 115.
Keep your country's Embassy/Consulate contact details handy.
