🐾 Traveling to Indonesia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Indonesia
Indonesia offers a tropical paradise for pet owners, particularly in Bali and resort areas. While urban centers like Jakarta have varying policies, beach destinations and villas commonly welcome well-behaved pets, allowing families to explore islands with their furry companions.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 7-14 days of travel, confirming no infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on vaccinations and treatments for parasites; endorsed by official authorities in the origin country.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than 1 year before entry.
Proof of vaccination must be included in all documentation; booster shots required if over 1 year old.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Microchip number must be linked to vaccination records; scanners available at entry points.
Import Permit & Quarantine
Pets require an import permit from Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture; apply at least 2 weeks in advance.
Quarantine may be required (up to 30 days) depending on origin country; rabies-free countries may qualify for reduced periods.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may face restrictions or bans in Indonesia.
Check with airlines and customs; muzzles and leashes mandatory for larger dogs at entry points.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and exotic animals have strict CITES regulations and may require special permits.
Reptiles and primates often prohibited; consult Indonesian quarantine services for specific species rules.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Indonesia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Bali & Jakarta): Resorts in Seminyak and Kuta welcome pets for IDR 150,000-300,000/night, with beach access and pet amenities. Chains like Accor and Novotel are often accommodating.
- Villas & Bungalows (Bali & Lombok): Private villas frequently allow pets at no extra charge, offering gardens and pools. Ideal for families seeking space and relaxation in tropical settings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings in Yogyakarta and Bali commonly permit pets, especially in rural or beachfront areas. Homes provide freedom for pets to explore safely.
- Resort Stays (Java & Sumatra): Eco-resorts in Ubud and Bandung welcome pets and feature nature trails. Great for families with children and pets enjoying authentic island experiences.
- Campsites & Glamping: Sites in Komodo and Gili Islands are pet-friendly with shaded areas and beach proximity. Popular for adventurous pet owners exploring national parks.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like The Mulia in Bali offer pet services including spa treatments, gourmet meals, and dedicated walking areas for premium travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Islands
Bali's beaches like Nusa Dua and Gili Islands allow leashed dogs with designated pet areas.
Keep pets away from sacred sites and check local rules at beach entrances.
Tropical Beaches
Many Bali and Lombok beaches have pet-friendly zones for swimming and play.
Sanur and Kuta offer sections for dogs; follow signage for restricted areas during high season.
Cities & Parks
Jakarta's Menteng Park and Bali's Ubud Monkey Forest welcome leashed pets; outdoor warungs often allow dogs.
Yogyakarta's Malioboro Street permits dogs on leash; most outdoor eateries are pet-tolerant.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Indonesian café scene in Bali includes pet-friendly spots with water stations outside.
Many Ubud coffee houses allow dogs in outdoor areas; inquire before entering indoor spaces.
Island Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Bali rice terraces and Yogyakarta temples welcome leashed dogs free of charge.
Cultural sites are pet-friendly outdoors; avoid indoor temples and holy areas with pets.
Ferries & Boats
Many inter-island ferries allow small pets in carriers or leashed; fees around IDR 50,000-100,000.
Check operators like Pelni; some require advance booking for pets during busy periods.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Kereta Api): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (IDR 20,000-50,000) and must be leashed or crated. Allowed in economy classes except dining areas.
- Buses & Angkot (Urban): Jakarta and Bali public transport allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs IDR 10,000-20,000 with leash. Avoid rush hours for comfort.
- Taxis & Ride-Shares: Inform driver in advance; Gojek and Grab often accept pets with pet-friendly options. Blue Bird taxis are reliable for short trips.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with notice and cleaning fee (IDR 200,000-500,000). Opt for vans for island hopping with larger pets.
- Flights to Indonesia: Check airline policies; Garuda Indonesia and AirAsia allow cabin pets under 7kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flights on Aviasales for pet-friendly routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Garuda, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific permit cabin pets (under 7kg) for IDR 500,000-1,000,000 each way. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Bali (Bali Pet Care) and Jakarta (Pet Hospital Indonesia) offer urgent care.
Carry international pet insurance; consultations cost IDR 300,000-800,000.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops like Pet Kingdom in major cities stock food, meds, and accessories.
Apotek pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized treatments.
Grooming & Day Care
Bali and Jakarta salons provide grooming and daycare for IDR 150,000-400,000 per session.
Reserve in advance during tourist seasons; resorts often partner with local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Bali via apps like PetBacker offer sitting for day trips or overnights.
Hotels can recommend sitters; ensure references for trusted care.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, beaches, and protected areas. Off-leash allowed in private villa gardens away from public spaces.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles on public transport and in crowded markets. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Bins are available in tourist areas; fines up to IDR 500,000 for not cleaning up. Always pack waste bags.
- Beach & Water Rules: Some beaches restrict pets during peak hours (9am-5pm); respect temple grounds and wildlife zones.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor tables only; keep quiet and away from food. Indoor areas generally prohibit pets.
- National Parks: Komodo and Bali parks require leashes; avoid during wildlife feeding times and stick to trails.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Indonesia
Indonesia for Families
Indonesia delights families with pristine beaches, cultural wonders, adventure parks, and warm hospitality. From Bali's water sports to Java's temples, children thrive in interactive environments while parents enjoy relaxed vibes. Facilities include kid zones, pools, and family dining across resorts.
Top Family Attractions
Waterbom Bali (Kuta)
Asia's top water park with slides, lazy rivers, and kid zones for all ages.
Tickets IDR 300,000-500,000 adults, IDR 200,000-350,000 kids; open daily with family packages.
Bali Safari & Marine Park
Drive-through safari with animals, aquarium, and interactive shows in Gianyar.
Tickets IDR 350,000 adults, IDR 250,000 kids; full-day adventure with animal encounters.
Borobudur Temple (Yogyakarta)
Ancient Buddhist site with sunrise tours, guides, and kid-friendly explanations.
Entry IDR 375,000 foreigners; combine with Prambanan for cultural family day.
Trans Studio Bandung
Indoor theme park with rides, shows, and science exhibits for rainy days.
Tickets IDR 250,000-400,000; multilingual and suitable for ages 3+.
Komodo National Park
Boat trips to see dragons, snorkeling, and pink beaches for adventurous families.
Park fee IDR 150,000 adults, IDR 75,000 kids; guided tours ensure safety.
Adventure Parks (Bali)
Zip lines, elephant rides, and rafting in Ubud and Nusa Penida.
Family activities with gear; suitable for kids 5+ with supervision.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Indonesia on Viator. From Bali snorkeling to temple tours, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Bali & Lombok): Properties like Club Med and Ayodya offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for IDR 1,500,000-3,000,000/night. Include kids' clubs, pools, and babysitting.
- Beachfront Villas (Java & Sumatra): All-inclusive villas with childcare and family programs. Resorts like Nusa Dua Beach Hotel focus on family entertainment.
- Homestays (Yogyakarta): Cultural stays with family rooms, home-cooked meals, and kid activities for IDR 500,000-1,000,000/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options in Jakarta with kitchens and play spaces for flexibility.
- Budget Hostels: Family dorms in Bali hostels like those in Kuta for IDR 400,000-800,000/night with shared facilities.
- Luxury Family Hotels: Stays like Four Seasons Jimbaran for immersive family experiences with cultural programs and gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Bali with Kids
Waterbom park, Ubud monkey forest, beach clubs, and cultural dance shows.
Elephant sanctuaries and spa days for parents make Bali a family favorite.
Yogyakarta with Kids
Borobudur sunrise, Prambanan temple, batik workshops, and Merapi lava tours.
River rafting and puppet shows engage children in Javanese culture.
Komodo & Flores with Kids
Dragon spotting, snorkeling reefs, and boat adventures with pirate themes.
Padar Island hikes and beach picnics for young explorers.
Lombok & Gili Islands
Beach swings, sea turtle spotting, and horse cart rides around car-free Gilis.
Easy snorkeling and waterfall hikes suitable for families.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 3 free; ages 3-11 half-price with parents. Family cars on Kereta Api with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Bali and Jakarta family passes (2 adults + kids) IDR 50,000-100,000/day. Buses and taxis are stroller-friendly.
- Car Rentals: Child seats IDR 50,000-100,000/day mandatory under 12. Minivans ideal for island travel.
- Stroller-Friendly: Resorts and malls accessible; temples may have steps, but paths available.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Warungs and hotels offer nasi goreng, mie for IDR 30,000-60,000. High chairs common in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach clubs in Bali with play areas and international cuisine. Jakarta's malls have food courts.
- Self-Catering: Indomaret and minimarts stock baby food, diapers. Night markets for fresh fruits.
- Snacks & Treats: Pisang goreng and es campur keep kids happy between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, airports, and resorts with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Apotek): Carry formula, diapers, meds; English-speaking staff available.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters IDR 100,000-200,000/hour; book via concierge.
- Medical Care: Clinics in Bali/Jakarta; international hospitals for emergencies. Travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Indonesia
Accessible Travel
Indonesia improves accessibility in tourist hubs like Bali and Jakarta with ramps, adapted transport, and inclusive resorts. While challenges exist in rural areas, major sites offer wheelchair access and assistance for barrier-free exploration.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Kereta Api provides wheelchair spaces and ramps; book assistance in advance for boarding.
- City Transport: Bali shuttles and Jakarta TransJakarta buses feature low floors and elevators.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis via apps in cities; standard ones fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Denpasar and Jakarta airports offer assistance, accessible facilities, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Temples: Borobudur has ramps and guides; Bali museums provide wheelchair paths.
- Historic Sites: Yogyakarta palaces accessible; some temples have steps but alternative routes.
- Nature & Parks: Bali beaches and safari parks offer accessible trails and viewpoints.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; seek roll-in showers and elevators.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-October) for beaches and outdoors; wet season (November-April) for fewer crowds and lush scenery.
Avoid peak holidays like Nyepi in Bali for smoother family travel.
Budget Tips
Family packages at attractions save 20-30%; use Gojek for cheap transport.
Villa stays and local eateries keep costs low while suiting family needs.
Language
Bahasa Indonesia official; English common in tourist areas like Bali.
Basic phrases help; locals are friendly with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear for tropics.
Pet owners: pack food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and import docs.
Useful Apps
Grab for rides, Google Translate, and PetBacker for pet services.
Bali Travel Guide apps for real-time updates on attractions.
Health & Safety
Indonesia safe for families; drink bottled water. Clinics everywhere.
Emergency: 112 for all services. Vaccinations advised for hep A, typhoid.