Indonesia, a haven of green fields, rich cultures, and blue shores, is swarmed by millions of tourists each year. Yet, as with any other well-known tourist destination, it also has its own proportion of tourist scams that would ruin your perfect holiday. Having knowledge of the most prevalent tourist scams in Indonesia will save you money, headache, and frustration.
Knowing the Most Popular Tourist Scams in Indonesia
Overpriced or fake transportation services
The most common extortion in Indonesia is false cab drivers or unlawful ride services in airports, bus stations, and tourist spots. Uninformed tourists are charged 10 times the normal fare.
Hacks to Escape This Scam
Use legitimate taxi companies such as Blue Bird Group, which possesses certified meters and well-trained drivers.
Book transportation services via legitimate apps such as Grab or Gojek, which provide advance estimate of fares.
Stay away from those approaching you and demanding a "cheap" ride directly.
Money Changer Scam
Some money changers have very attractive exchange rates to lure you in, and they shortchange you through sleight of hand or miscounting.
How to Avoid This Scam
Exchanging money should be done through banks or licensed money changers.
Count your money yourself when you are leaving the counter.
Steer clear of backstreet stores offering "zero commission" or "best rate."
Tour Package Tricks
Travelers to places such as Bali, Yogyakarta, or Jakarta are enticed into "all-inclusive tours" bookings that promise them special experiences only to receive the experience much less special, with extra charges and poor quality service.
How to Avoid This Trick
Book with well-known travel agencies or websites that have genuine reviews.
See TripAdvisor, Google, or genuine travel websites for reviews.
Get the itinerary and price details in writing before payment in any event.
Scams for Travelers in Love with Culture
Dress Code and Temple Entrance Scams
In cultural tourist sites such as Uluwatu or Tanah Lot temples, individuals pretend to be "temple staff" and inform you that you have to pay an extra "donation" fee or hire a sarong over and above the ticket.
How to Avoid This Scam
Check with official ticket prices and dress codes beforehand.
Carry your own sarong or hire from the official temple counter.
Always request a receipt.
Phony Guides and Mandatory Donations
Wherever you go like at Borobudur or Prambanan, unauthorized guides will come to you with tales and ask for money even though you have not availed of their service. In the rural areas, they will insist you purchase "souvenirs" or "donations."
Avoiding the Scam
Utilize licensed guides from official booths or websites like Klook or GetYourGuide.
Polite refusal and walk away from unwanted sellers.
Never hurry and purchase something—you can say no.
Street-Level Tourist Traps
Scooter Rental Scams
Scooter rental is common in Bali and Lombok, and tourists may fall prey to these scams with ease:
Being charged for damages that never occurred.
Being informed they've broken traffic laws and have to pay a fine there and then.
How to Avoid This Scam
Rent only from very reputable companies.
Take pictures and videos of the bike from every side before taking it out.
Bring an international driver's license to prevent fake police fines.
"Friendship Bracelet" or "Blessing" Scam
Scammers in places such as Ubub or near tourist attractions approach with a "free gift" such as a flower or bracelet and insist on money later after putting it on you.
How to Avoid This Scam
Don't take things that are offered spontaneously.
Say no in a firm and polite manner and exit.
Keep your hands to yourself if someone tries to approach you.
Online and Digital Scams
Fake Booking Websites
Crooks build fake websites or social media profiles imitating genuine hotels, villas, or tour operators. Criminals scam victims into advance payment for non-existent reservations.
How Not to Fall into This Trap
Book on reputed sites such as Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb.
Read a few reviews prior to booking.
SIM Card and Data Package Scams
Some shops sell expensive SIM cards or imitated data plans with imitated activation and put you on hold.
How to Avoid This Scam
Purchase SIM cards at airports at official airports or telecom malls.
Use operators such as Telkomsel, XL Axiata, or Indosat.
Request them to activate data when you depart the shop.
Tips on Staying Safe and Scam-Free in Indonesia
Take Basic Bahasa Indonesia
Even a few words can deter scammers, as they assume you’re more aware and less gullible.
Stay Informed with Local Travel Forums
Follow updates from travelers on platforms like:
Reddit (r/travel, r/Indonesia)
TripAdvisor forums
Local Facebook groups
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Know the contact info for:
Your embassy
Tourist police (Bali has a specific unit)
Your hotel/hostel
Trust Your Instincts
If it doesn't feel right. Scammers bet on confusion and hurry.
Most Popular Tourist Scam Hotspots in Indonesia
Bali
Kuta Beach (bracelet scams)
Ubud Market (exploitative souvenirs)
Ngurah Rai Airport (taxi scams)
Jakarta
Kota Tua (phony tour guides)
Soekarno-Hatta Airport (phony transport services)
Yogyakarta
Borobudur and Prambanan temples (unofficial tour guides and donations)
Lombok & Gili Islands
Port areas (boat ticket scams)
Remote beaches (tourist "taxes")
Conclusion
While Indonesia is only so nice and quaint, it's better to be careful. Take a few simple precautions, and you will not fall victim to the most prevalent tourist scams and have a hassle-free, wonderful holiday.
Be cautious, query, and check before you presume. Safe travels.
